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Lifeboat Sisters #1

The Lifeboat Sisters

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Escape to Seaspray Cottage on the Cornish coast, with its stunning views of honeycomb sand beaches and aquamarine seas, where Ava is about to discover the man of her dreams might be closer than she thinks…

Twenty-five-year-old Ava Morrow smiles through her tears as she links arms with her two older sisters. They’re surrounded by the friendly locals from the tiny village of Port Promise who’ve come together to celebrate her father’s life. As she and her sisters swap memories over cider in the pub garden, the sun warm on her shoulders, the seagulls diving for her crisps, Ava feels something close to peace. At least she knows she has friends and family who love her, even if she might feel a bit stuck in the place she’s lived in all her life.

And yet the next morning, waking up in her cramped caravan, she can’t ignore the feeling that her life is at a standstill. Determined her father’s legacy should never be forgotten, Ava makes the brave decision to train as a lifeboat volunteer alongside her best friend Harry, the one person who can make her smile in the toughest times.

As they learn how to save lives in the winter-blue Cornish waters, Ava begins to see Harry in a different light. Ava’s sisters think working on the lifeboats is risky, and Harry is the only person who understands what she needs to do. What’s more, she’s finding it increasingly difficult to ignore the depth of his sea-green eyes and the sun shining on his sandy blonde hair.

But just when Ava decides she can no longer hide her feelings for Harry, he reveals a devastating secret about the night Ava’s father died. With her world turned upside down, Ava has an important decision to make. Should she open her heart to Harry and take a chance on love? Or will the secret he has shared drive her away from him and the new life she loves?

If you love golden sands, picture-perfect Cornish villages and a romance to root for as well as books by Jessica Redland, Jo Bartlett and Nicola May, you will fall in love with this romantic, heartbreaking read.

334 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 14, 2023

1236 people are currently reading
431 people want to read

About the author

Tilly Tennant

48 books470 followers
Tilly Tennant was born in Dorset, the oldest of four children, but now lives in Staffordshire with a family of her own. After years of dismal and disastrous jobs, including paper plate stacking, shop girl, newspaper promotions and waitressing (she never could carry a bowl of soup without spilling a bit), she decided to indulge her passion for the written word by embarking on a degree in English and creative writing, graduating in 2009 with first class honours. She wrote her first novel in 2007 during her first summer break at university and has not stopped writing since. She also works as a freelance fiction editor, and considers herself very lucky that this enables her to read many wonderful books before the rest of the world gets them.

Tilly is represented by the wonderful, gorgeous Peta Nightingale at LAW.

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 69 reviews
Profile Image for Jack.
96 reviews1 follower
July 24, 2023
This book made me cry before even the end of chapter two — that's never happened before! Tilly can do that because she's such a great writer, but that's not even this book’s greatest strength. The best thing is the amazing community of characters and places built around the lifeboat service premise which was equal parts riveting and heartwarming. Also, a beautiful depiction of what happens when you see someone you've known forever from a new perspective. Loved it!!
Profile Image for Bookworm86 .
1,973 reviews137 followers
July 16, 2023
BLOG TOUR REVIEW


Review for 'The Lifeboat Sisters'' by Tilly Tennant.


Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Tilly Tennant, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous


Publication date 14th July 2023.


This is the fifth book I have read by this author. It is also the first book in 'The Lifeboat Sisters' series. I have previously read 'The Hotel At Honeymoon Station', 'The Cafe At Marigold Marina', 'My Best Friend's Wedding' and 'A Home At Cornflower Cottage' which I would also highly recommend!!


This novel consists of 24 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!


Congratulations Tilly on yet another absolutely stunning page turning read!!!


Yet another absolutely stunning escapism page turner by the extremely talented Tilly!!! Her fantastic and evocative writing skills will pick you up and sweep you away to the stunning Cornish village of Port Promise leaving you smelling the sea air, feeling the waves splash on your skin and warm your heart throughout!!! I was completely invested and immersed in the storyline and was absolutely devastated when I came to the end and realised I had to unpack my suitcase and return to rainy Wales. The scenery, atmosphere, village and characters all came to life around me and I am absolutely landed that this book is just the first in what promises to be a gorgeous series!!! What an absolutely explosive beginning to a series it is too!!! An absolute emotional rollercoaster coaster ride of emotions from laughter to heartbreak, joy to devastation, anger to bliss and everything in between!!! The storyline is filled with tragedy, romance, friendship, family, guilt, bravery and everything you could ever ask for in an amazing page turner!!! I gave up counting how many times I told myself one more chapter just to HAVE to know what happened next as this happened over and over until I ended up devouring the whole book in one sitting!!! I loved learning more about the RNLI and the amazing work that they do. The fact that Tilly has done her research absolutely shone through in each of the pages which Tilly did an amazing job of weaving into a beautiful storyline. A huge congrats to Tilly!!!! There is nothing worse than a book littered with mistakes as the author hasn't don't their research but you've done a fantastic job! This would make an absolutely gorgeous movie that I would love to see made!!! This book is a stunning page turner which will have you feeling warm and fuzzy inside at times and yet screaming and shouting at certain people at other times. The atmosphere was gorgeous and I loved the setting. It made this book a perfect fire place read anywhere and anytime from on the beach in the middle of the day or curled up in fire in the middle of the night. The characters were are well defined, strong and realistic. I became completely invested in each and every one of them and I cannot wait to meet them all again in the next book in this series which is called 'Second Chances For The Lifeboat Sisters' which I am off to read as soon as I have finished this so keep your eyes peeled for my review of that coming soon!!!


Well done Tilly on yet another stunning book!!! This is exactly why you are one of my favourite authors and here's to your next success 🥂!!!


Overall a stunning emotional romance that will sweep you off your feet and take you on a gorgeous break away.



425 pages.


This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle, free with kindle unlimited and £9.99 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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Profile Image for Anna  J.
1,403 reviews35 followers
July 9, 2023
This is a beautiful story of the Morrow family. The family is devastated by the loss of Jack as he died doing what he loved being out on the lifeboat and saving his best friend. Now, Jill must lean on her daughters- Gabby, Clara and Ava.

This is set in a small town and the vivid descriptions make you picture this quaint place. Eva decides she wants to volunteer and be part of the crew on lifeboat. She needs to learn to trust her instincts and believe in herself. Ava is one relatable person and watching her and Harry build a relationship. I really enjoyed this clean romance and the fun family dynamics.

First book by this author and will be looking for more.
Profile Image for Bookworm86 .
1,973 reviews137 followers
July 16, 2023
BLOG TOUR REVIEW


Review for 'The Lifeboat Sisters'' by Tilly Tennant.


Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Tilly Tennant, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous


Publication date 14th July 2023.


This is the fifth book I have read by this author. It is also the first book in 'The Lifeboat Sisters' series. I have previously read 'The Hotel At Honeymoon Station', 'The Cafe At Marigold Marina', 'My Best Friend's Wedding' and 'A Home At Cornflower Cottage' which I would also highly recommend!!


This novel consists of 24 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!


Congratulations Tilly on yet another absolutely stunning page turning read!!!


Yet another absolutely stunning escapism page turner by the extremely talented Tilly!!! Her fantastic and evocative writing skills will pick you up and sweep you away to the stunning Cornish village of Port Promise leaving you smelling the sea air, feeling the waves splash on your skin and warm your heart throughout!!! I was completely invested and immersed in the storyline and was absolutely devastated when I came to the end and realised I had to unpack my suitcase and return to rainy Wales. The scenery, atmosphere, village and characters all came to life around me and I am absolutely landed that this book is just the first in what promises to be a gorgeous series!!! What an absolutely explosive beginning to a series it is too!!! An absolute emotional rollercoaster coaster ride of emotions from laughter to heartbreak, joy to devastation, anger to bliss and everything in between!!! The storyline is filled with tragedy, romance, friendship, family, guilt, bravery and everything you could ever ask for in an amazing page turner!!! I gave up counting how many times I told myself one more chapter just to HAVE to know what happened next as this happened over and over until I ended up devouring the whole book in one sitting!!! I loved learning more about the RNLI and the amazing work that they do. The fact that Tilly has done her research absolutely shone through in each of the pages which Tilly did an amazing job of weaving into a beautiful storyline. A huge congrats to Tilly!!!! There is nothing worse than a book littered with mistakes as the author hasn't don't their research but you've done a fantastic job! This would make an absolutely gorgeous movie that I would love to see made!!! This book is a stunning page turner which will have you feeling warm and fuzzy inside at times and yet screaming and shouting at certain people at other times. The atmosphere was gorgeous and I loved the setting. It made this book a perfect fire place read anywhere and anytime from on the beach in the middle of the day or curled up in fire in the middle of the night. The characters were are well defined, strong and realistic. I became completely invested in each and every one of them and I cannot wait to meet them all again in the next book in this series which is called 'Second Chances For The Lifeboat Sisters' which I am off to read as soon as I have finished this so keep your eyes peeled for my review of that coming soon!!!


Well done Tilly on yet another stunning book!!! This is exactly why you are one of my favourite authors and here's to your next success 🥂!!!


Overall a stunning emotional romance that will sweep you off your feet and take you on a gorgeous break away.



425 pages.


This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle, free with kindle unlimited and £9.99 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


#TheLifeboatSisters #TheLifeboatSisters #TillyTennant #Bookouture #BookoutureAnonymous #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour #Goodreads #NetGalley #Amazon #AmazonKindle #Bookstagram #Bookblogger #KindleUnlimited

@TheLifeboatSisters @TheLifeboatSisters @TillyTennant @Bookouture @BookoutureAnonymous @Netgalley @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86 @Goodreads @Amazon @AmazonKindle @Bookstagram @BookBlogger @KindleUnlimited


https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86

https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...

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Profile Image for Carly Rushforth.
579 reviews28 followers
July 15, 2023
The opening pages of this story had me gripped, they start with Harry getting an alert on his pager from local Lifeboat rescue he volunteers with as it’s his night on duty but he never expected it to go off because he’d not noticed the change in the weather because he’d been working hard at the family business with his dad.

When things take a tragic turn for Jack Morrow, Harry can’t come to terms with it.

Ava Morrow wants to start to train as a lifeboat volunteer to honour her dad and keep the family tradition in Port Promise going but her mum and sister are so against her doing it, Ava doesn’t want to give up her dream but will her family come first?.

This felt like such a long book but I wasn’t complaining because it was so good, all the characters and Port Promise are written beautifully so you just keep turning page after page.

All the ups and downs with Ava made me really feel for her especially concerning her relationship with Harry and wanting to be on the Lifeboats.

I just tell this series is going to be HUGE and everyone with love this quaint little fishing town and all its residents.

I liked how the author highlighted the plight of the locals in seaside villages in Cornwall, how they’re being priced out by people buying second homes etc.
Profile Image for Lou Hughes.
667 reviews8 followers
July 15, 2025
If my mum sees this. This is your kind of book. Just when I think i might enjoy every kind of literature out there aside from the older books. This comes along. It wasn't necessarily bad. I may try reading it again in a few years. Not my cup of tea. By any means.

Did not finish
Profile Image for Emma Crowley.
1,027 reviews156 followers
July 16, 2023
The Lifeboat Sisters by Tilly Tennant is the first in a new trilogy and I adored it from beginning to end. First of all, the fabulous cover can’t but fail to draw you in and then once you start you are enchanted by the fabulous setting of Port Promise. Instantly, you find the characters interesting and engaging and you are keen to know more about them as you can sense that they all have a story to share. The books centre around the Morrow sisters with the specific focus of this story on Ava, the youngest of the three. The two other sisters, Gaby and Clara, do feature and we get to know a little about them but their individual stories will be revealed in future books. Although, I did enjoy picking up on certain little things that gave a hint as to what their storylines could be.

We begin with a very dramatic opening which highlights the important, vital and dangerous work the RNLI do and all voluntarily. This is further highlighted throughout the book with impeccable research having been done. Jack Morrow has just retired from the lifeboat crew as he failed his most recently medical. Now he is manager of the station but when a call comes through that well known fisherman Robin is in need of help, he throws caution to the wind and sets off with the crew. Alongside him are Kas, Killian, his son-in law, and Harry a long term friend of Ava’s. Disaster strikes and Jack is lost at sea leaving the lives of the Morrow sisters and their mother Jill shattered forever.

Fast forward six months later and a memorial is being held for Jack. It’s a tough day for all the family. They are attempting to mend but when the anchor of your family as gone it is very hard to do. There has always been a male Morrow serving the community despite the dangerous, demanding, physical and unpredictable work involved in rescue. The story of Iziah Morrow explains all this so it’s easy for the reader to see how important the family are to the community and what a part the lifeboat service has played in the family also.

Jill is not the same person she once was and Ava, the youngest of the sisters, is deeply worried about her. Jill’s fire has gone out, her lust for life and her gardening work has evaporated and she is not functioning as she once was. Seaspray Cottage, the family home, echoes with memories of Jack that will long linger but physically they can’t have him back. Ava was a person who always went out of the way to do things that people didn’t expect her to do but the death of her father has made her realise her true calling. ’Her destiny was to follow in his footsteps, to save lives as he did, no matter what it took no matter the personal risks or costs’. She enjoys her work teaching water sports but deep down the lifeboat rescue is calling her and despite knowing it will further tear her family apart she is insistent that she will volunteer.

Ava faces stiff opposition from her family although Clara was the most supportive. I felt Clara really understood Ava and would back her up when needed. Gaby, being the eldest and full of confidence and assertiveness, had no qualms telling Ava how she felt about her decision and if she had her way husband Killian would no longer be volunteering either. As for Jill, I completely understood her viewpoint. She didn’t want to lose another family member to the seas as she didn’t think she could ever recover from another loss having barely survived what she has been through. In fact, I could understand all points of view relating to what Ava wanted to do and in my mind there was no clear cut answer as to what decision she should make. I was interested to see how it would all play out? Could a satisfactory outcome be reached for all concerned? Would Ava be able to follow her dreams, or would she have to put her calling aside and continue on the way she had been in her life?

Ava is stubborn and obstinate but in a good way. She knew her own mind and what she wanted and she was determined to reach that goal in some way despite the challenges thrown in her direction. ’I want to live my life, not the one my mum or you or anyone else wants for me’. She is resolute in her choices and I think because she was this way because there was an aspect of unfulfillment in her life which slowly started to emerge as the chapters passed by. She always did her best not to allow emotions to cloud her judgement and this trait is certainly needed in the lifeboat service. She provides everyone with a strong argument for joining the crew but I felt that she had so many things to consider that at times she wasn’t looking at the entire picture and considering other people’s opinions which like Ava’s were all valid. ’I’ve being coasting along not feeling like the whole version of myself and not understanding why until now. I need to do this. I have to this’. Really, she was caught between a rock and a hard place. Alienate, frustrate and anger her family if she joins but on the other hand when there is a longing deep inside you and the sea has always been part of your life and it needs you and you need it. Then perhaps she should trust her instincts and just go for it. I hoped the decision she made would be the right one for all involved.

There are lots of characters apart from the sisters that make an appearance who all add to the community feel in Port Promise. Marina is best friends with Jill and runs a hardware ship with her husband. Betty runs the café/tea tooms and Cormac is not that long in the village and runs the fish shack. I hope that Cormac features even dominantly in book two as I got a strong sense that he has an important role to play. But it’s Harry who is the main male character in this book. He runs a cider press business with his father Sandy and was there on the boat the night Jack was lost. He hasn’t been out on any rescues since the accident staying on land doing office work. He is haunted by what he witnessed and feels he is to blame for what happened. Should he have been more insistent that Jack remain on land? Should he have been the one to jump into the sea?

So many questions and what if’s haunt him and it affects how he interacts with Ava. They had been good friends since school and deep down you just knew that he had feelings for her but guilt, anxiety and pain were eating away at him and he needed help to battle through his emotions and issues. Harry struggles along silently and I could see how frustrated Ava was with him. His confidence is gone in more ways than one and I didn’t like how he treated Ava when she was only trying to help him as she knew how much he was suffering. Theirs was a difficult path to thread given their two differing personalities and with so much at stake the right steps needed to be taken.

The Lifeboat Sisters was a fantastic read and a brilliant introduction to the series. The book should come with a warning that you won’t get any work done because once I started it I found it increasingly hard to put down. So do yourself a favour and set aside time when you can read uninterrupted because Ava and co get under your skin and won’t let go until you have reached the final page. It was obvious that Tilly Tennant thoroughly enjoyed writing this book as such love, care, detail and attention was poured into every aspect of the story. I couldn’t find one fault with it, not that I went searching but if there was something wrong or something I didn’t like, trust me I would have said it.

Death and grief are challenging subjects to navigate but Tilly did this so well with great empathy and compassion and you feel for each of the sisters and Jill as they weather the storm of loss and try to rebuild their lives. I could easily identify with them and felt such an affinity and understanding with each of them. This was a book that I got totally lost in and I really didn’t want it to end but knowing that book two, Second Chances for the Lifeboat Sisters is already available to read made reading the final sentence that much more bearable. It won’t be long before I dive into it but in the meantime I suggest you read book one as it’s an enjoyable read with difficult subjects dealt with very well and of course the prerequisite dash of romance is there too.
Profile Image for Frenchorchidea.
435 reviews39 followers
September 11, 2023
What a wonderful start into the Lifeboat sisters series of books by Tilly Tennant! I am always excited to read a book by Tilly Tennant and so I picked up this book thinking that I would love it. Well... I LOVED it! oh yes! Even though I scared myself a little by not finding the first chapters so appealing. I almost thought that I would give up on this book , but then after a couple of chapters, the story really begins and there it goes, I found the magic of Tilly Tennant again! Lovely read with lovely story, lovely characters, lovely settings and lots going on! I am giving this book a 4 stars out of 5 and can't wait to read the second book in the series!!!
Profile Image for Julie.
2,654 reviews43 followers
August 15, 2023
Tilly Tennant’s The Lifeboat Sisters is a gorgeous friends-to-lovers romance that will make readers laugh and cry.

The Cornish village of Port Promise is grief-stricken and heartbroken when one of their own dies tragically at sea. Jack Morrow was loved and respected by everyone and nobody will feel his loss more keenly than his daughter, Ava. Determined that her father’s legacy will live on, Ava quits her job and decides to follow in his footsteps by becoming a lifeboat volunteer. Helping her along will be her best friend, Harry, who had been with Jack on that fateful night when he had died.

Together, the two friends begin to spend a lot of time together and Ava begins to see her best friend in a completely different light. Not prepared to lose Harry’s friendship, Ava is not going to run the risk of ruining things by telling him how she really feels about him – even if with each passing day she feels as if she is losing yet another piece of her heart to Harry. Ava doesn’t know how she is going to stand to be so close to Harry and yet so far – until he reveals a shocking secret about the night her father died that turns her world upside down all over again.

Will Harry’s secret drive Ava away from Port Promise for good? Or will the two of them find a way to make things work?

Tilly Tennant’s The Lifeboat Sisters is such a lovely read. A gorgeous summertime escape that is simply enchanting, this wonderful story of healing, second chances and falling in love when you least expect it is perfectly pitched and guaranteed to satisfy and enchant romantics everywhere.

Tilly Tennant’s The Lifeboat Sisters is the perfect book to lose yourself into this summer – don’t miss it.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an Advanced Reader Copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Sharon.
2,043 reviews
July 16, 2023
I do enjoy a book by this author and have read so many of her previous books. This is the first book in a new series and we are introduced to the Morrow sisters - Ava, Clara and Gaby, This first instalment focusses on Ava and the devastation of the family following the death of their father Jack. Their stories revolve around the Lifeboat service as Jack died whilst out working on his lifeboat, and we get to see Ava become a lifeboat volunteer.

The story was delightful and whilst so sad at times, it was also filled with such feel good moments throughout. I loved all the characters, and with Ava being the main character it was lovely to watch her character evolve as her story moved on. I loved the relationship she had with Harry and enjoyed his story equally. The little Cornish village of Port Promise was described beautifully and I could picture myself there amongst the villagers as I read. Whilst there were light hearted moments which brought smiles to my face, the grief you feel at the loss of Jack was wonderfully written and reduced me to tears in parts.

This was a fabulous start to a new series and one which I shall be enjoying through the other sisters stories. The location is perfect and the story very topical with Lifeboat week being celebrated in lots of seaside towns around the UK in the forthcoming weeks - what wonderful work all the Lifeboat volunteers do! If you're looking for a heart-warming story with lots of fun, family, friendship and love, then look no further! This is the perfect summer read and I would definitely recommend it!
Profile Image for Kathleen Ryder.
Author 38 books948 followers
May 20, 2023
BLURB:
When Ava Morrow’s beloved father Jack is killed on his lifeboat at sea, the Cornish village of Port Promise unites in grief. Jack’s twinkling eyes and warm smile are remembered by the whole village, and Ava is determined that he will never be forgotten.

Inspired to follow in her father’s footsteps, Ava quits her job and begins to train as a lifeboat volunteer, alongside her best friend Harry, who was with Ava’s father the night he died. As they work side by side every day, Ava begins to see Harry, with his sea-green eyes and his sandy blonde hair, in a different light. Ava’s mother and sisters are worried about Ava’s safety and want her to stop, and Harry is the only person who really understands what she needs to do. Still, she pushes her feelings to one side, afraid to risk their friendship.

But when, one summer’s evening, Harry reveals a tragic secret about the night that Jack died, Ava’s world is turned upside down once more. Will his secret drive her away from him and the new life she loves?

MY REVIEW:
This was a sweet story, showcasing how the death of one man has such a big impact on so many people.

Touching on grief, family and love, this book is set in a small village and is an easy read.

Thank you to NetGalley for a copy of this book in return for my honest review.
Profile Image for Caroline|Page~Turners.
575 reviews15 followers
July 15, 2023
Ava Morrow is recovering from a broken heart after losing her amazing father Jack. He died in a lifeboat while at sea. The small village of Port Promise is reeling with grief realizing they will never see Jack again. Ava decides to carry on Jack’s legacy by becoming a lifeboat volunteer. Ava takes her best friend Harry with her. Harry was on the lifeboat the night that Jack died. Ava’s sisters Clara and Gaby are not happy with her decision and want to talk her out of it. But when Harry tells Ava a horrible secret about the night that Jack died, her life is once again turned upside down. She is faced with another major decision, where does she go from here?

This book completely swept me away. The Lifeboat Sisters authored by Tilly Tennant was a wonderful and much needed escape to the Cornish Coast. I was enamored by the sights, sounds and aroma of the beautiful English Coast. This book played out like a movie in my mind. This is a story of overcoming grief and the loss of a parent and discovering new beginnings in life. I felt a personal connection to the Morrow Sisters and the villagers of Port Promise. What a lovely escape this unputdownable rapid page turner was. I am so happy that this is the first book of what I’m sure will be a phenomenal series. I can’t wait to dive into book two. I highly recommend this story.
1,208 reviews6 followers
May 19, 2025
The book was okay and it resonates with me as a live in a coastal town with a very active lifeboat service: channel crossings, boats overloaded full of people... Being a lifeboat volunteer is a very difficult and dangerous life. And they are all volunteers, this country does not pay for this service, it is truly all volunteers who train vigorously to be able to launch with a full crew at a moment's notice as lives are depending on them to be saved. And they have a very good track record. And are constantly fund raising,

In this book Ava Morrow's father Jack has just died, he was a lifeboat volunteer (they all are, none are paid) and his family are down on the beach celebrating his life. Everyone is emotional, in these small seaside towns everyone is included and involved. Amongst this crowd is Harry who is a great friend of Ava's and he is especially hurt as he wasn't able to save her father, and being so traumatised cannot go back on a launch of the lifeboat and has been doing the onshore tasks instead.

The book is a little repetitive and this jars a bit as you read on, but the story and the emotions are sound and it was interesting to discover that there are further books in the series, as with all lifeboat towns there is a community feel, spirit, so it's good to see it continuing in this series.
Profile Image for Robin Loves Reading.
2,898 reviews453 followers
July 14, 2023
This sensitive read by Tilly Tennant is the first book in a new trilogy. Each book is focused on each of the Morrow sisters, Ava, Clara and Gaby. This first book highlights Ava. The Morrow family is still reeling from the loss of their father and husband, Jack, who was also the town’s hero. His loss will never ever be forgotten. The Morrow family has had a history of volunteering on lifeboat rescue missions. As Jack only had daughters, none of them seemed likely to follow in his footsteps.

It has been six months since his death and now Ava has decided that she would like to become a lifeboat volunteer, despite fears that her family has. Following in her father’s footsteps has been Ava’s dream for years. As this book deals with grief and loss, it also is a book of new beginnings. While Ava works on making her dreams a reality, her romantic life takes a turn. Lifelong friends with Harry, one of the lifeboat volunteers, Ava slowly begins to see him in a new light.

What a lovely story. I loved following Ava as her life and decisions were coming to fruition. I immediately read the second book in this series as I was really pulled into the story.

Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Monica Mac.
1,682 reviews41 followers
June 20, 2023
I have to admit that I didn't know much about lifeboats but Tilly Tennant certainly helped to explain how and why of volunteering with the RNLI.

Ava has been living in Port Promise her whole life, and she is the proud descendant of an amazing man who founded the RNLI in her village. When her father dies during a "shout" her world changes in an instant and dealing with her own grief as well as the collective grief of the village is difficult. She also has to contend with her feelings about Harry, who has been a good friend with hints of something more, from childhood.

As village life carries on, Ava needs to figure out how she wants her life to be, going forward. Her mother, Jill, is still grieving and as the youngest daughter, Ava has had trouble finding her voice and having her wishes heard whilst not upsetting her mum.

A really lovely book about love, living your best life, the amazing work the RNLI volunteers do and the truly selfless acts of these heroes.

4.5 stars from me.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture.
Profile Image for Nessa.
1,856 reviews70 followers
September 11, 2024
Book 1 of a 3 book series, this series features three sisters (Ava, Clara and Gaby) and each book is the story of one of the sisters. So this book 1 is Ava’s story, the book 2 is Clara story and then book 3 is Gaby’s story.

So book 1, is the perfect start to the series, introducing you to the three sisters and the rest of Marrow family/friends. Once that was done, the focus was on Ava, where we got to know her and to accompany her on her journey.

It was an enjoyable story, heartfelt with a fair bit of emotional elements surrounding bereavement. The story was well written though, with a great story that had plenty of drama and all sorts of other stuff going on. Another focal point throughout the story was that of the Lifeboat, the history of it, becoming a volunteer and going out on rescues with the lifeboat team. Was all very interesting and insightful, so learn a bit at same time as enjoying the story.

I’ve enjoyed the characters in this book, so much so that I am glad that I don’t have to say goodbye to them yet, so book 2 here I come.
Profile Image for Samadhee Ismail.
695 reviews16 followers
July 16, 2023
The first few parts of the story was gripping. The story starts with Ava's father being killed while in the sea and Ava wanted to follow her father's footsteps. However when one of her childhood best friends reveal a secret, Ava's life seemed to have turned upside down.

I really enjoy reading Tilly Tennant's books and so far, this book is one of my favorites. I do like the bond that was shared between Ava and her sisters and so it was interesting to read about their sisterly bond with each other. This was a long book but nonetheless you can read it in one sitting. You can actually feel sorry for Ava and I liked reading about Ava's relationship with Henry. I do like the descriptions of the village and that made me as a reader feel like I was a part of the story. Overall, thi book worth five stars!

Thank you Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC. The review is based on my honest opinion only.
Profile Image for Nikki.
1,417 reviews12 followers
September 1, 2023
I absolutely loved this book, couldn't put it down, and can not wait to read the other books in the series.

Set in Cornwall in Port Promise, it follows the lives of 3 sisters born into a family with a strong ethic of giving back to the community, especially in the form of serving on the Lifeboats.

Gaby, Clara and Ava are the Morrow sisters; their father recently died on a lifeboat rescue, an institution he had served since he was old enough, as had all the men in his family had before him.

This book is Ava's story, the youngest sister and most like her father. Can she keep her dreams alive even though she knows it will break her mother's heart? Will she ever get together with her childhood friend?

I couldn't put this book down. It captivated me from the first few pages, and I had to download the second book as soon as I'd finished the first.

I love all of Tilly's books. She's a great author in the romance and family genre, and it's well worth reading her other books, too.
Profile Image for Karen.
584 reviews5 followers
July 13, 2023
The Lifeboat Sister's is the first book in a new series by Tilly Tennant.

The Morrow family are learning to get on with life after the sad death of patriarch Jack. Ava, Jack's youngest daughter, decides she wants to follow in his footsteps and become a Lifeboat volunteer, despite her mum, Jill and sisters, Gaby and Clara, being vehemently against it. Ava works with her best friend Harry, who was on the Lifeboat when Jack was lost at sea; working closely together, Ava realises she had feelings for Harry but an unexpected disclosure may just change that.

Ava is a strong minded young woman determined to carry on the legacy of a Morrow being a Lifeboat crew member. Harry is quiet and reserved. I always love books set it in Cornwall - the Cornish descriptions make me so envious!! Great start to the series.
Profile Image for Kristin.
1,012 reviews82 followers
July 18, 2023
There is just so much to love about this book! Like many other books that I have loved, this takes place in a small town with a wonderful cast of characters. I really enjoy these books where the towns sound wonderful, as do all the people that are in the town. Tennant painted such a picture that I want to move into this town! It is very easy to root for Ava, especially after the tragedy she has endured. I enjoyed that this book is multi-faceted: it takes on grief and how each person handles it differently, it takes on family dynamics, friendships, love, and life choices. There are many takeaways from this book because of the layers within. I don’t want to say to much because I don’t want to give anything away, but I highly suggest you read this book!
Profile Image for Staceywh_17.
3,668 reviews12 followers
July 20, 2023
The Lifeboat Sisters is the first book in a wonderful new series by Tennant.

I enjoyed getting to know the Morrow sisters and loved spending time in Cornwall. The Cornish coast is gorgeous and Port Promise sounds idyllic.

Ava is at the centre of the story - having recently lost her father to a tragic accident whilst out on a lifeboat shout, she makes a monumentous decision that she wants to follow in her father's footsteps and wants to work on the lifeboats too.

It takes you on a roller-coaster of emotions and also covers some important topics including mental health, loss and grief.

The characters are warm, wonderful and I easily became invested in them and their story.

I applaud anyone who undertakes a voluntary position with the RNLI as the sea can be a treacherous place.

Definitely my favourite new series - loved it!
Profile Image for Steph Lawrence.
512 reviews
May 22, 2023
I devoured this fabulous story over a sunny weekend.
It was just perfect. Family, friends and a brilliant community feel. And all set in the small Cornish village of Port Promise. I want to live there.
There was tragedy, but lots of feel-good moments too.
I loved the relationships and the family dynamic in the Morrow family. Very touching, hostile and hilarious in equal measure. I loved Ava and the up and down relationship with her friend Harry.
In fact, I just loved everything about this book and will be diving straight into Second Chances for the Lifeboat Sisters.
Many thanks to Bookouture and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a review copy, I give my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Susanne Scott.
1,487 reviews20 followers
June 10, 2023
I really enjoyed reading this. I loved learning about lifeboat training and how it affects small villages and the people that volunteer. It was also really nice the way it touched on mental health, especially men’s mental health and how it’s ok to not be ok and it’s ok to talk.
Meeting all the sisters and getting done back story on them all was good and Ava and Harry were a great friends to lovers couple and I hope we get to see more of their developing relationship in the next book. I liked how the community all supported each other and looked out for each other and worked to keep age old traditions alive.
A beautiful summer read.
Profile Image for Sara Oxton.
3,800 reviews17 followers
June 14, 2023
This is a fantastic feel-good four-star read. I have loved these authors works previously, and I really enjoyed this one, but I did find it a little slow in places, it may just be me, but I put it down a couple of times and had to pick it back up, as it left me. I don’t know why, as it was a great story, I think maybe there was too much packed into some parts and then left me wondering in others. The characters will sweep you into the story, and really make you care about them. The way the author deals with loss, was done so well, and I love the highlight on the RNLI as they are frequently the unsung heroes of the sea.
Profile Image for Nancy.
1,579 reviews
July 4, 2023
This book is the first in a new series by Tilly Tennant. I have read other books by this author and was excited to start a new series by her.
The book is filled with heartbreak and heart-warming moments. Sisters Ava, Clara, and Gaby made me want to book a trip to the Cornish coast.
Their father was killed while volunteering on a lifeboat and this brought Ava to the decision, she wanted to carry on with his work, so he is never forgotten.
I learned so much from reading this book about being a volunteer on a lifeboat.
Thank you NetGalley, Tilly Tennant and Bookouture for the ARC of The Lifeboat Sisters. This is my personal review.

637 reviews2 followers
May 15, 2024
I Enjoyed It!

The Morrow family have always been involved with the lifeboats in the Cornish village of Port Promise, but after the death of Jack Morrow, his daughter Ava decides she would like to volunteer to train as a life guard going out on the boat to rescue anyone in danger in the sea. Her mother though, won't hear of it so reluctantly Ava puts her plans on hold. Ava has always liked Harry, but only as a friend, but gradually her feelings have changed, but has she left it too late? There is a lot going on in Ava's life and I admire how she kept going despite all the twists and turns her life was taking.
Profile Image for Sams_Fireside.
470 reviews55 followers
July 17, 2023
I loved this new series by Tilly Tennant and devoured the first two books in a couple of days. The first in the series is The Lifeboat Sisters and is Ava's story. Ava is the youngest Morrow sister and is determined to follow in her late father's footsteps and volunteer for the local lifeboat service. However other members of her family have reservations. Does Ava stand up for her beliefs, or does she go along with others' wishes?
I cried at this book - a lot - and I rarely cry at anything I read, but for some reason, this one just kept hitting that spot and the tears flowed. I think my husband thought that something serious had happened! I loved Ava and I loved Harry, I just needed to love them together. When I was a kid, we used to go to a place called Mumbles in South Wales for our holidays every single year and I used to love watching the lifeboat go out. Reading The Lifeboat Sisters reminded me of these lovely family holidays and the way in which the sea can turn from a millpond into a raging torrent, just because of a wind change!

If you want a beautiful story, set in Cornwall, to read whilst you're on your holidays this summer then I cannot recommend this enough. If you're anything like me then you'll fly through it and want to read the next one straight away.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read and review The Lifeboat Sisters by Tilly Tennant.
Profile Image for Nisha Mathias castelino.
113 reviews
July 18, 2023
The Lifeboat Sisters is the first book in a new series by Tilly Tenant. After the passing away of their father, Ava, Gaby and Clara are devastated and are trying to move forward alongwith their mother Jill. Ava, the youngest wants to follow in her father's footsteps and decides to become a lifeboat volunteer against the wishes of her mother and eldest sister Gaby. She is happy to join the crew alongside her brother in law and Harry, her childhood friend.

The book is set in a small village of Port Promise on the Cornish Coast.
I was completely invested in the characters, the story and the author's vivid descriptions of the village. Overall a heartwarming read of love, grief, family bonds and chasing dreams.

Thank you @bookouture for having me on the tour and @netgalley for providing me with a digital copy to read and review.
Profile Image for Paula Williams .
952 reviews27 followers
Want to read
January 13, 2024
I loved escaping with the Lifeboat Sisters in this first book of their series. I’ve loved all I’ve read by #TillyTennant. She’s got another gem here & y’re setting is gorgeous as always. I enjoyed learning about lifeboat volunteers. I’d never given thought to their dangerous & important roles. Ava’s story is tragic & heartwarming, one I adored. I can’t wait for the stories of her sisters!

Thank you, Tilly Tennant, Bookouture, & netgalley for my copy! All opinions are my own.
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