The Sisters at the Last House Before the Sea

Heaven's Cove #6

by Liz Eeles

Sitting by the window with views of the shining sea, a white-haired woman seals an envelope with trembling hands and thinks of her grandchildren – two sisters who haven’t spoken for years. Will her final message bring them back together?

Ever since her sister Caitlin left the village of Heaven’s Cove, Isla has cared for their beloved grandmother Jessie in her cosy red-brick cottage by the sea. Now, heartbroken after Jessie’s death, Isla hopes to bond again with her sister. Until Caitlin insists she wants to sell the cottage they spent their childhood in.

But their grandmother, who always had a twinkle in her eye, had other plans. At her will reading the sisters are handed an envelope containing a cryptic riddle in Jessie’s handwriting. Certain their grandmother, who loved puzzles and crosswords, wanted them to solve it together, Isla begs Caitlin for more time.

Then Isla meets tall, brooding Ben in the village, come from America seeking answers about his own family history. One of his ancestors was close to a relative of Jessie’s… did Jessie mean for them to meet?

As Ben and Isla walk together on the wild Devon beaches, they discover a heartbreaking generations-old story of a woman who chose her family over true love. But Isla and Caitlin are no closer to solving their grandmother’s riddle: and when Caitlin finally shares a shocking secret about her life back in London, selling their grandmother’s home seems the only way forward.

Without their grandmother to guide them, will the sisters ever rediscover the meaning of family? Or will Isla be forced to leave Ben, and Heaven’s Cove behind forever?

Genres: Romance, Audiobook, Mystery, Contemporary

390 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 19, 2023

About the author

I live on the south coast of England with my family, and write heart-warming, emotional women's fiction and romantic comedies.

When I've notched up my daily word count, I enjoy reading, walking by the sea with friends, singing in a local choir, and watching TV. I love sci-fi programmes and still harbour a childhood crush on Captain Kirk.

Reviews

[Srivalli (Semi-Hiatus) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.7 Stars

One Liner: A bit heavier than previous books, yet heartwarming

Grandma Jessie finds a way to bring together the estranged sisters, her granddaughters, Caitlin and Isla. She leaves them a puzzle to solve after her death.

Caitlin and her stepdaughter Maisie come to Heaven’s Cove to settle the property issues (aka Rose Cottage) and go back to London.

Isla lives in the house, caring for her grandma when Caitlin left around fifteen years ago. Over the years, the gap between the sisters widens to a point where neither knows what to do.

Can the two find a way to sort out their personal issues and rekindle their relationship? Did Grandma Jessie succeed in her plan of uniting the sisters?

The story comes in the third-person POV of Isla, Caitlin, and Maisie.

My Thoughts:

We are back in Heaven’s Cove for another installment. Since the books are standalone, you can read them without reading the others. Though previous characters make brief appearances, only Rose has a slightly longer role (that is, she gets to speak in 3 short scenes). The setting, as always, makes its presence felt.

The book focuses on estranged sisters Caitlin and Isla and their lives. As expected, both are dealing with different kinds of mess. Caitlin is aware of how things stand, while Isla is happy in her denial state.

The three-POV narration works well for the plot. We get a deeper insight into the characters, which helps us understand them better. Maisie begins as a surly and annoying teen (15yo), but soon, I can see her vulnerability. Her POV turned out to be a favorite by the end.

Caitlin and Isla are different, which highlights their roles and their past. Halfway through, we can see what shaped their current personalities, though Isla turned out to be a least favorite (unexpected since I thought I’d empathize the most with her).

The riddle and ancestry tracing part is interesting and the highlight of the book. I like how all three find clues (even if Maisie is uninterested) and piece everything together.

While the blurb mentions Ben and his potential romance with Isla, it is not as much as I expected. In fact, for the majority of the story, Isla is in a relationship with her arse of a boyfriend. Everyone could see he was a jerk except our darling girl. And by the time she did, I just wanted to be done with it. I was more invested in Caitlin and Maisie’s story.

I did like the exploration of different relationships and their impact on people. Be it Caitlin’s suffocation of becoming a caretaker at a young age or Isla’s dependence on her sister and transition into a caretaker for their gran, which leaves her open to emotional manipulation.

I’d have loved it more if things got better a little sooner instead of everything happening in the last quarter of the book. This would have given readers more time to see Isla stand up for herself and mend her relationship with Caitlin, which is the core premise.

We have an epilogue with HFN and projected HEA. This works for the plot, though I wish Isla’s track was better handled (as you can see, my major complaint is only with that part). Despite being on an emotional and heavy side, the book manages to be a heartwarming read.

To summarize, The Sisters at the Last House Before the Sea is a tale of family, relationships, second chances, sacrifice, and love. It’s not the best in the series but a good addition, nevertheless.

Thank you, NetGalley and Bookouture, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.

#NetGalley #TheSistersattheLastHouseBeforetheSea

[Alayne Emmett · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although this was the 6th book in the series it read as a standalone. I thoroughly enjoyed this sweet story. I loved the puzzles and the characters. It all flowed so well. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

[Sharon · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book #6 in the Heaven Cove series. Whilst it is a series, it can easily be read as a standalone as each book focusses on new characters, In this book we meet Caitlyn and her sister Isla. Their grandmother, Jessie has recently died and Caitlyn returns to Heaven's Cove with her step-daughter Maisie to sort out Jessie's affairs. The two women, whilst were once close, have drifted apart over the years and now both are holding back secrets from each other.

This is such a fabulous series, one which I've enjoyed more and more with every new book. I love how we meet new and different characters every time, yet still get to see the delights of the little village of Heaven's Cove. Caitlyn and Isla are likeable characters, although both are holding things back. Isla is initially more likeable and I could connect with her more. Caitlyn however is definitely the more feisty of the two sisters and I loved watching their relationship progress, wondering if they could ever get back to how they were many years before.

There is, as with the other books in the series, an element of mystery, and in this book it comes in the form of a mysterious riddle set by their grandmother, Jessie. I loved the discovery of long lost ancestors and also new found ones, and wondered along with the two women just how they all linked up together! The book is set in the run up to Christmas making it a festive read, and I loved being in Heaven's Cove when the snow begins to fall!

This was a wonderful story which I absolutely adored reading! I loved the family relationships and dramas, the little pieces of history and of course the mysterious puzzle to solve. Coupled with the scenery, the likeable characters and meeting some of the other characters from previous books, this book for me was perfect! A delightful read which I would definitely recommend!

[Carla · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Sisters at the Last House Before the Sea is the sixth book in the Heaven Cove series, but it can easily be read as a standalone. Each book is about different characters living in Heaven's Cove and their story is contained in the book. In this story we meet Caitlyn and her sister Isla. Their grandmother, Jessie has recently died and Caitlyn returns to Heaven's Cove with her step-daughter Maisie to sort out Jessie's affairs. The two women, whilst were once close, have drifted apart over the years and now both are holding back secrets from each other. When Jessie's will is read, the sisters find out that they both inherited the house, but Isla can live there as long as she wants and until then, it cannot be sold. At the same time, they receive an envelop that Jessie left them which contains a letter and a riddle. As they work together to solve the riddle and mystery that it entails, all three of them, Caitlyn, Isla and Maisie rediscover what they really want out of life.

I love this series and all the characters I have met along the way. Heaven's Cove is a great little village in Devon, with wonderful characters, a great setting and new beginnings for the characters. I really enjoy stories about family reconciliation and forgiveness and this is a great one. The characters were well written and relatable, as well as likable, even stroppy Maisie. It was great to see them grow, change and have their own new beginnings. There were themes of second chances, community, bullying, gaslighting, infidelity, gambling addictions, family love and forgiveness. There is some romance at the end of this one, but it just adds a bit of happiness and smiles that there are some happily ever afters. I can't recommend this book enough.

[Caroline|Page~Turners · Rating 5 out of 5]

Isla has recently lost your beloved grandmother Jessie. Isla cared for her grandmother when her sister Caitlin left Heaven’s Cove. Isla is hoping to reconnect with Caitlin now that Jessie is gone. But when Caitlin decides she wants to sell the lovely little cottage that they spent their childhood in, Isla wants nothing to do with her. When Jessie’s will is read Isla and Caitlin are surprised to receive envelopes with riddles inside. They must solve the puzzles together as sisters. When Isla meets Ben in the village they are immediately attracted to each other. And with long walks on the beach Isla discovers that Ben was a relative of Jessie. Was he there intentionally or was it fate that brought them together?

The Sisters at the Last House Before the Sea by author Liz Eeles is a wonderful escape back to Heaven’s Cove. Heaven’s Cove is one of my most favorite places to visit. With its picturesque views of the sea and the amazing little village, I am always happy to return. Eeles describes Heaven’s Cove perfectly and it makes me never want to leave. This amazing story had the perfect plot twists at the perfect time. When you least expect it and think you have it all figured out, the story changes. This read in one sitting book is exactly the escape I needed. This emotional and heartwarming book is an absolute must read that I highly recommend.

[Annarella · Rating 4 out of 5]

I loved these women and loved their resiliance and their strength. They were gold medal at choosing what or who was going to cause the biggest damage but they were also able to change and improve their life.
I was moved, I smile, I rooted for the sisters.
A good story, poignant and full of emotion. It's perfect if you want to cry buckets and smile after crying.
As my grand used to say I had a lot of fun: cried buckets.
Recommended.
Many thanks to the publisher for this ARC, all opinions are mine

[Brenna Stewart · Rating 4 out of 5]

Not my favorite of the series, but still very sweet!

[Emma Crowley · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sisters at the Last House Before the Sea is the sixth book in Liz Eeles’ Heaven’s Cove series and despite being fairly well into the series this book can be read entirely as a standalone, perhaps even more so than some of the others. There are a few characters from previous books that make a reappearance but they are very brief and wouldn’t detract from your understanding or enjoyment of the story at all. This new story follows sisters Isla and Caitlin who are very much at odds with each other when we first encounter them. In fact none of the main characters including Maisie, Caitlin’s stepdaughter, are especially happy and for various reasons.Their beloved grandmother Jessie has just passed away and after a 15 year absence from Heaven’s Cove Caitlin has returned to hear the reading of the will and she hopes to get Rose Cottage sold so she can quickly return to London with Maisie.

But Jessie has other plans for the two sisters who have been more or less estranged for so long. Jessie wanted nothing more than for her two grandchildren to come back together but her efforts whilst she was alive had failed. The girls are given a letter with a riddle which they must solve which they believe will bring them good fortune. Jessie loved nothing more than a good riddle or crossword and her clever ways may bring about for the girls what has failed to happen so far. But the way things are between the pair and the problems they are individually dealing with may once again just prove too much for the pair.

Once again, I adored the setting of Heaven’s Cove which is a small coastal village in Devon. The descriptions are real and vivid and there is a sharp contrast between the sea and the moors which surround the village. This contrast can also be seen in the girls moods and attitudes towards each other and the situation they find themselves in.

Chapters alternate between Isla, Caitlin and Maisie and it was brilliant to get each person’s perspective about the story in its entirety. It never became confusing or felt like there was a lot of chopping and changing. Instead everything had a lovely, natural flow to it and the story moved along at just the right pace. Isla loves the village but always at the back of her mind is that ambition to leave and travel the world but caring for Jessie for several years put paid to those goals. Not that she regretted looking after Jessie one bit. After all she did take in the girls when their mother died. But there is an air of resentment surrounding Isla that Caitlin upped and left and never came back or rarely made the effort to make contact and you can’t blame Isla for feeling this way.

Isla feels safe and that things are familiar and comforting in Heaven’s Cove and when someone gets very stuck into a routine, it’s difficult to break away from it. The thoughts of leaving fill her with panic and she has also been in a relationship with Paul for quite some time and is not willing to give up on it. Although it is clear from the get go that the pair really shouldn’t be together but Isla can’t see this at all. Even Maisie who is grumpy, surly and feels that no one loves her can see that Paul is certainly not the man for Isla. Paul was an awful character and the way he treated Isla was despicable. His entire demeanour was just so off and the way he spoke to Isla, I really wanted her to wake up and confront him. He was so obnoxious that I really wanted to race through the parts where he featured as the words he spoke and his manner were just deplorable.

Paul was bossy, controlling, jealous and very restrictive in the way he treated and spoke to Isla. He puts several dents in Isla’s confidence and I knew she would be so much better off without him and would be able to spread her wings if she could break free from him. But she is grieving the loss of someone who meant so much to her and she is in a vulnerable place that she hasn’t garnered the strength to do this. She is also worried that Caitlin wants to get rid of Rose Cottage as soon as possible but thankfully Jessie has mentioned in her will that Isla can stay there as long as she needs to and only then can it be sold. Yet still I felt Caitlin was always there putting pressure on Isla even if she didn’t actually come out and say those words. Isla sets about solving the riddle and in attempting this it may just bring the girls back together or will the stubbornness of Caitlin and the personal issues she is going through just prove too much for reconciliation and happiness to be found?

Caitlin carries a lot of guilt and huge burdens on her shoulders. Guilt that she left Heaven’s Cove abruptly and left Isla and a certain someone else behind which means they are now separated by a chasm of difference and resentment. Now that she is back old memories that she has attempted to quash are rushing to the surface and threatening to overwhelm her. She would give anything to get the house sold and get back to London but really she can’t keep running forever and at some stage she will have to stop and confront her demons. Her marriage to Stuart is on rocky grounds and the reasons for this do become apparent and only put Caitlin in a more difficult position. The repercussions of this have an effect on Maisie, who herself is struggling big time with the reasons behind her suspension from school. She is a typical teenager moody and irritable and she too shoulders a burden she would much rather not have to deal with. But Heaven’s Cove is a special place where people come together and are a strong community who are always there for each other in good times and bad and an unexpected source slowly starts to help Maisie emerge from the dark cloud that has enshrouded her and perhaps the village will work it’s magic on her and she will realise that she is loved and valued.

I loved the mystery element of the story when Isla and Caitlin attempted to solve Jessie’s riddle. It didn’t dominate the story instead it actually allowed the other strands of the plot to come forth and in a way swirl around each other until a satisfying conclusion was reached. I also loved the character of the American man, Ben. He was a great inclusion and a good fit with the riddle part of the story but he also allowed for someone’s eyes to be opened as he was straight talking and a no nonsense kind of man. All in all, The Sisters at the Last House Before the Sea was a delightful read that I enjoyed from start to finish. Liz Eeles is now very comfortable writing in this setting and the characters are given time to develop and share their stories. I definitely think there is room for several more books in the series and hope Liz is already hard at work on the next one. I would definitely recommend this book but once you’ve read it so yourself a favour and complement your reading by going back and reading the previous books.

[Lghiggins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heaven’s Cove is tucked away from the hustle and bustle of cities like London. It is a place of peace, calm, and community. The downside is everybody knows everybody’s business. The upside is having people who genuinely care and will help when a neighbor is in need. Isla and Caitlyn are sisters who due to family problems have been shuffled around. Their grandmother Jessie, a resident of Heaven’s Cove, is their last carer. Caitlyn had to fill in the “mother” gap for her ill mom and then her younger sister. She was anxious to escape from Heaven’s Cove and those extra responsibilities and she did, leaving Isla to care for their grandmother.

In The Sisters at the Last House Before the Sea life does not turn out well for either sister, and they do not maintain the close relationship of their youth. When their grandmother, always a riddle and puzzle lover, passes away she gives her granddaughters a final riddle to solve as part of their inheritance. The book includes romances, broken relationships, a dip into history, and teenage angst. Isla, Caitlyn, and Maisie (Caitlyn’s stepdaughter) all have issues to work through from their pasts. Most of the characters are likable. The unlikable ones are intentionally written as mean, narcissistic, and overbearing. Liz Eeles is a good writer, and I hope she will create more books for this series.

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Cindy Spear · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a powerful transforming family story! The Sisters at the Last House Before the Sea is book six of the Heaven’s’ Cove series by Liz Eeles. I have loved every one of these mesmerising gems but this one holds an extra special place in my heart with its even greater complex mystery and moving themes. But before I even started reading the story, I fell in love with the gorgeous cover. It is a true reflection of the inside, too. The beautiful descriptions, memorable characters and riveting plot match the vivid, uplifting and breathtaking scenery and colours on the outside. The Sisters at the Last House Before the Sea took me on a heart-warming journey to Heaven’s Cove once again, made me shed numerous tears and then set a smile on my face at the end. Each character is wonderfully distinct. They all have different personalities —making each one a stand-out. In fact, the whole delightful package is extremely memorable.

This story is about two sisters, Caitlin and Isla who have been apart and not spoken for many years. They are brought back together through the death of their grandmother, Jessie. They harbour many secrets from each other. But Jessie had a plan to draw these two sisters close again (as they used to be). She leaves behind a riddle for them to solve forcing them to work together. This is made known in her will. A most intriguing mystery that involves a relative of her family (Edith) from the early 1900s. There is also a letter from a man (William) to his beloved (Jessie’s, Caitlin’s and Isla’s ancestor). This couple from the opposite sides of the Atlantic Ocean (England and United States) have an intriguing love story that needs to be uncovered. Little do the sisters know, there are lessons to be learned from the experience and life-changing knowledge gained. Yet Jesse’s riddle is a tough one and there’s not much to go on in the letter! I won’t give anything away but it is very clever and original plot.

Fifteen years earlier, Caitlan moved away to London as she was trying to escape her life in Heaven’s Cove. She wanted a fresh start; distance from the heavy responsibilities she once carried. But in leaving, she abandons not only her family but someone else she loves. Unfortunately, her life does not turn out as well as she had hoped. She is married to a man who has some serious issues and her step-daughter is not the friendliest. But Caitlin is committed to being a wife and stepmother. Her sense of guilt from her past mistakes keeps her motivated but when something worse happens with her husband that is too great to ignore, she must face the facts and decide her future. Initially she wanted Isla to sell the cottage because she needed money to help her husband and stepdaughter but as the story unfolds many things shift in Caitlin. And the place and people she ran away from years ago, become her solution and save her.

The younger sister, Isla, stayed in Heaven’s Cove in the cottage to care for her grandmother whom she loved dearly. As a result, Jessie’s passing has hit Isla hard. Initially she feels almost lost without her grandmother. For Jessie was her rock. Although Isla’s life has not been easy, and she has missed her sister’s communication and friendship, she has done her best to move forward without her. But has it led her into the arms of a man who seems to want to control and belittle her? This verbal and mental abuse has diminished Isla’s self confidence. It has even made her question her own identity and dreams. Although others can see that Paul is not good for her, she is unable to recognise or accept this truth. A classic case of relationship abuse. Not until this search for the truth about Edith and William is in progress, and major revelations come to light, does she begin to see her situation. And meeting Ben the American turns everything around as he awakens in her the wonder of travel and life beyond her small world.

This is an incredibly moving and layered story. Isla and Caitlin are very appealing characters, even with their human flaws. We can feel great emotion for them, care about their dilemmas, relate to their sorrow and cheer at their triumphs. Jessie is a clever lady with her riddle ‘making things right from beyond the grave.’ Maisie is tough at the start but softens from the love she is shown. I loved how the strange woman on the hill is part of Maisie’s healing and brings out the best in her. There’s Ben who starts out as the grumpy reluctant visitor but Heaven’s Cove works its magic on him. And wonderful Sean, a love from Caitlin’s past, who re-enters her life. Of course, Paul and Stuart are two unlikeable characters (as they were meant to be) unworthy of the sisters.

This is a story about love, sacrifice, family, healing and a lover’s tale past and present. There’s a creative mystery for the sisters to solve with lots of twists and turns and surprises! I could not put this book down for I was completely lost in the story. Heaven’s Cove is a place we all want to visit (or live) to soak in the magic, mist and memories of this divine setting and enchanting community. I highly recommend The Sisters at the Last House Before the Sea. 5 Brilliant Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a review copy.

[Eleri · Rating 4 out of 5]

a delightful addictive book which considers family dynamics; lost opportunities; misunderstandings and their consequences; grief and a charming story of a riddle. All set in a beautiful coastal setting
a lovely book

[Louise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Although part of a series, I found that The Sisters at the Last House Before The Sea worked perfectly as a standalone book. It took me a few chapters to get into the story, but then I was fully invested and remained that way all the way to the end.

The action takes place in a village in Devon, England, called Heaven’s Cove, and centers around two semi-estranged sisters, Isla and Caitlin, who are grieving the loss of their grandmother, Jessie. Caitlin hasn’t been around Heaven’s Cove much since she left 15 years earlier and has been living in London with her husband and stepdaughter Maisie. Isla stayed in the village and has been Jessie’s caretaker. Unbeknownst to Isla, Caitlin’s husband has put them in a financially precarious situation.

Jessie, a lover of puzzles, has left a riddle for the sisters to solve, which drives the events of the story. Isla has a domineering boyfriend, who I absolutely could not stand! I kept wanting to shout at Isla to get rid of him! I don’t want to give away any spoilers, but this is a romance and I enjoyed anticipating happy endings for each sister.

The mystery involved with the riddle gave this book a little extra something beyond “just” the romance.

A special delight was the portrayal of Maisie, a 15-year-old. I felt the author got her just right, with all the angst and insecurities that teens experience, especially modern teens who have to deal with social media on top of everything else. Another excellent aspect was the descriptions of the area, from the wild wintry sea to the moors. You really got a feel for the area.

A big thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read an advance readers copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sisters At The Last House Before The Sea by Liz Eeles is another in this lovely series, which always includes a mystery of some sort and some romance. Two sisters who have been estranged for fifteen years. Their grandmother, who raised them, has just died, and Caitlin has returned. In her own mind she is here to see the house sold and collect her money, as she is desperate for it. She has brought with her her stepdaughter, Maisie, who doesn’t appear to have anyone else. The will has given Isla the right to live in the house as long as she likes, but Caitlin is still holding out hope that Isla will sell without Caitlin having to explain why she needs the money. Isla has an overbearing boyfriend, Paul, who seems to think the decision is his. There is much to iron out in all these relationships. Eeles sees it through.

Eeles’ books are cozy. They are feel-good and this, like many, contains a mystery from the past. This time in the form of a riddle. Relationships have always been complicated, it is not a new thing. Eeles writes about complications without landing in the bedroom. Caitlin is the epitome of a character going back home after many years. All her mistakes are seen with clarity, both then and now. Isla is the typical abused woman, not physically, yet but definitely emotionally. She has been cut off from her friends, and her self-esteem is in the toilet. She is not allowed an independent thought or desire. It is a well-written book, full of emotion and reconciliation.

I was invited to read a free e-ARC of The Sisters At The Last House Before The Sea by Bookoutre, through Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #Bookoutre #LizEeles #TheSistersAtTheLastHouseBeforeTheSea

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Love this series, the books never disappoint. I have enjoyed each and everyone of them. Heaven's Cove sounds like a beautiful place to live, I can see why so many people find themselves moving there or returning home. The downside is that everyone knows all your secrets. You can't get away with anything living there. (Looking at you Belinda.) With the death of their grandmother, Caitlin and Isla are thrown back together. Caitlin's reluctantly back in Heaven's Cove, with her teenage stepdaughter, Maisie. Isla never left home, but always dreamed of traveling. In her will, Jessie left her granddaughters a puzzle for them to figure out. Solving the mystery of Edith and William helps mend Caitlin and Isla's relationship. The sisters make terrible choices with men. Caitlin at least acknowledged all of Stuarts shortcomings. Isla made excuses for Paul. Everyone could how terrible Paul treated Isla, except for Isla. Maisie was the typical angsty, teenaged girl. She showed a different side to her with the slightly crazy cat lady. Nice to see Ryan and Freya from book three. There definitely needs to be an update about all the characters from the previous books. It's hard to keep track of all of them.

Definitely recommend the book and the previous ones in the series. Loved the characters, story and writing style. Wouldn't mind reading more about Heaven's Cove or revisiting characters from previous books. Hopefully there's a few more in the series. Look forward to reading more books by the author. Loved the cover.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bookouture through NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Julia · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Sisters At The Last House Before The Sea by Liz Eeles is an absolutely beautiful contemporary novel. It is the sixth book in the Heaven’s Cove series but can be read as a stand-alone.
The novel is about family. Family may be blood related or brought together by love. Family love us despite our faults. Family stick by one another. We see two sisters thrown back together by the death of their grandmother. Life is awkward at first but gradually old bonds are rebuilt.
We see the difficult position of a fifteen year old step daughter. She is trying to find her place in life but is troubled. Her life is continually built on shifting sand and she does not know where she belongs. The location of Devon offers her more freedom than her stifling London life.
A character is gaslighted by her partner. She is oblivious to the mental torment he is inflicting. The reader can clearly see what is happening. Our hearts are broken by cruel barbs to the character who is a kind and gentle soul.
There is a mystery to solve from a century ago. Enquiries about a long-dead relative open some exciting new doors.
Liz Eeles has perfectly captured the Devon landscape, the community-minded village and the wild, untamable sea. The whole tale was enchanting.
This was my first book by Liz Eeles but I want to read much more by her. I am sad that the book is ended. It feels like I have just said goodbye to dear friends rather than read a book.
I received a free copy from the publishers. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.

[erin_leigh_reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sisters at the Last House Before the Sea is the first book I’ve read by author Liz Eeles and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Because this is book Six in the Heaven Cove’s Series I was worried I wouldn’t understand the book. But I needn’t have worried. The Sisters at the Last House by The Sea was a perfect standalone book.

What initially drew me to the book was the title but once I started to read the book I was captivated. Two estranged sisters forced to come together after the death of their beloved Grandmother, Jessi. Isla and Caitlin were raised by their Grandmother in her quaint cottage by the sea in Devon, England. However, once the sisters got older Isla stayed to care for their Grandmother while Caitlin fled! Jessi’s hope is that her death will bring the sisters back to her cottage, reunite them and help them repair their broken bond. Upon Jessi’s death, the girls discover that she has written them a mysterious riddle which they must solve. Could solving this riddle bring the sisters back together again, or will it tear them apart?

What ensues is a magical, mysterious and heartwarming story. Full of angst, sadness, joy and love. I adore this book and will definitely go back and start with book one in the Heaven’s Cove Series. I thoroughly enjoyed the setting in Devon, as I have family there and it’s a place I’ve always wanted to visit. The descriptions of Devon were so vivid I felt like I was there.

Thank you Bookouture and Netgalley for my eARC. My honest review is voluntary.

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the sixth book set in Heaven's Cove it is true
But it works as a standalone, too.
It involves two sisters who once were close to each other
But their Gran hopes they'll be that again, as they soon discover.

Following the death of their grandmother there's a big surprise
When her will is read and they realise
That she's also left them a cryptic riddle to solve and a mystery
That's shrouded in long forgotten family history.

They've hardly spoken for years will this new quest
Help them rekindle their affection, will they do their best?
Both sisters have secrets, will they be honest about their present and past
Will they help to heal the rifts between them at last?

A stroppy fifteen year old step-daughter is also there
Unsure what's happening to her family and who'll care.
With family drama and new opportunities, too,
Will these two help each other pull their way through?

They're not the only ones looking into family history
Will their connecting help solve the mystery?
Will it also help them realise family communication is the key
Alongside a caring community?

With possible opportunities and romances old and new
This is a moving family drama I highly recommend to you.
For my complementary copy of this book, I say thank you -
As I share with you my honest review.

[DianeLikesToRead · Rating 4 out of 5]

🌟🌟🌟🌟
Thank you Bookouture for inviting me to be part of the Books on Tour for “The Sisters at the Last House Before the Sea” by Liz Eeles. Here is a great story about the delicate relationship between sisters.
This book is part of the Heaven’s Cove series, but it can be read as a standalone. Caitlin and Isla are estranged sisters who are reunited after their beloved grandmother, Jessie, passes. Caitlin brings her step daughter Maisie to the Cove to settle up the will. But Jessie still has some tricks up her sleeve and left the sisters a riddle to hopefully get them back together. If you are looking for a book that is filled with hope and family dynamics, this story is for you. I need to go back and read the other books in this series. Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
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[Ade · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book with its unusual long title is the story of two estranged sisters brought together again by the death of their grandmother and her ‘machinations’.

Told mainly from two points of view, there is a third which balances out the other two, giving readers an insight into the thoughts of the characters and how they have changed.

The author takes you on a journey of self discovery, self reflection and forgiveness. It addresses the balancing of familial duties and personal needs.

I enjoyed it for the small town vibes and the issues it addresses- the past, burning bridges and the rebuilding of these bridges.

The characters were outstanding and did exactly what was expected of them. From the wary and secretive to the brooding and the overbearing, these characters brought their A-game.

I love the puzzle and the last assignment by Jessie. She knew exactly what she was doing and that twist was just fantastic.

If you love small town books with real life issues and very relatable characters, then you will enjoy this.

I received an advanced copy and the review is entirely mine and voluntary.

[Tessa Talks Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every once in a while, I find a story that I become invested in the characters' lives so much that I want it to continue forever. The Sisters at the Last House Before the Sea by Liz Eeles is just such a book.

The characters are relatable, though wow, do they make bad choices. The sisters, Isla and Caitlin, sure can pick the worst of the bunch, which is nothing short of tragic. So, to watch them become empowered and realize some things about their lives need to change warmed my heart and made me feel like anything is possible.

I also enjoyed the mystery of their dead grandmother's riddle, and going on the journey with the sisters as they discovered a past ancestor and eventually solved the riddle is absolutely compelling. I love a good riddle, and one that takes the characters on a journey to solve a mystery from the past is even better. It kept the pace at a consistent medium level, which never felt bogged down.

Now, if I could only follow them and see how their changes panned out! They and their story captivated me enough to honestly want to know.

[Aileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Erstmal: wie wunderschön passt dieses Cover bitte zur Geschichte? Hat mir sehr gut gefallen.

Ich muss gestehen, der Beginn des Lesens hat sich für mich etwas schwierig gestaltet. All meine Bücher in diesem Jahr habe ich in der "Ich-Perspektive" gelesen. Dieses Buch ist jedoch in der "Erzähler-Perspektive" geschrieben. Aber sobald ich mich daran gewöhnt hatte, bin ich nur so durch die Geschichte geflogen. Isla, Cait und Maisie waren mir sofort sympathisch. Jede auf eine total andere Art und Weise. Es hat mir jedoch das Herz zerrisen, dass sie nicht ehrlich zueinander zu sein konnten. Was nach allem was passiert ist total verständlich ist ..

Übrigens: ein Kommentar habe ich mir während des Lesens aufgeschrieben: "Ich hasse Paul und ich wollte es Isla so oft zurufen, dass sie die Augen aufmachen soll" ich denke das wird euch ähnlich gehen beim lesen ..

Das Ende des Buches hat mich total berührt und mich würde wirklich interessieren, wie es für die Protagonistinnen weiter gegangen ist.

Diese Geschichte ist perfekt für zwischendurch um einfach mal dem Alltag zu entfliehen.

[Jasminegalsreadinglog · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sisters at the Last House Before the Sea by Liz Eeles is a story of sisterhood, family, and found family. Though this is the sixth book of a series, it can be read as a standalone.

Set on the rugged coast of Devon, this novel is the story of two sisters Caitlin, Isla, and Caitlin's stepdaughter, Maisie. The story is told in an alternate viewpoint of all these characters. There is a crack between all these characters, and a loss puts all these people together in a cottage. The divide will increase or bring them close together?

The picturesque locale of Heaven's Cove makes it very tempting to dig into this book with a cozy blanket and a hot cup of coffee. All the characters of this book are trying to make the best of their situations. I have read some of the books from this series before, and this one doesn't disappoint either.

CW: References to gambling, infidelity, grief, and abandonment

Thank you, Bookouture, for this book.

[Paula · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sisters at the Last House Before the Sea is book six in the Heaven's Cove Series by Liz Eeles. A grandmother who loves, but also worries about granddaughters who are estranged, this is one drama, heart touching story. The women, Isla and her sister, Caitlin do speak once the grandmother has passed away, but all is not harmonious. A story of siblings, past heartaches, present difficulties, reuniting and even new love makes this a compelling dramatic read.

Once you start, you will want to keep reading to see what happens to these sisters, cheer them on at times and stomp your foot at other time. Mostly like me you may want to give some need advice especially since their grandmother’s death is a sure reminder that life is short. Each book in this series is a stand-alone, so jump right into this lovely series.

An ARC of the book was provided by the publisher through NetGalley which I voluntarily chose to read and review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Nicola “Shortbookthyme” · Rating 5 out of 5]

Two sisters who haven’t spoken to each other for years are drawn together by their grandmothers last wishes. Her final message to them is riddle that they need to solve per their grandmothers request. Will they be able to renew their relationship? Will they find peace within themselves? Can they be a family once again?
Family secrets, renewing relationships, romance and so much more await you when reading The Sisters at the Last House Before the Sea. Though part of a series, you can definitely read this as a standalone.
Liz Eeles writes an emotional, heartbreaking and heartfelt story that pulled at my heartstrings.
Thank you to NetGalley, Bookouture and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
#shortbookthyme

[Hexenaugen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Meinung:

Eine interessante Erzählung über zerstrittene Schwestern, die nach dem Tod ihrer Oma zueinander finden.
Ein netter, entspannter Spaziergang durch wunderschöne Landschaften, mit einer Prise Mystery, die das Interesse an Geschichte, Familienangelegenheiten und den Vorzügen der vertrauten Umgebung weckt.
Es hat mir sehr gefallen, alle Protagonisten von Heaven's Cove näher kennenzulernen.
Es war interessant, über das Leben der Schwestern zu lesen und darüber, was 100 Jahre zuvor geschah.
Die Schreibweise ist toll und auch bekannte Gesichter tauchen wieder auf.

Fazit:

Der Strand und die gemütliche Umgebung weckten in mir den Wunsch, einmal dorthin zu fahren.
Mir hat dieses Buch sehr gut gefallen und ich empfehle, die Bücher der Autorin wirklich gerne.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Escape to the stunning Devon coast with Liz Eeles' Heaven's Cove Series Book 6: The Sisters at the Last House Before the Sea

Caitlyn and Isla, Jessie's granddaughters, reunite in the stunning Devon countryside after fifteen years of separation, only to be devastated by Jessie's passing.

Caitlyn's return from London sets off a chain of events that will have you invested in the characters and scenery. The fabulous descriptions of the surroundings and lifelike characters make the novel an immersive experience.

While this is book 6 of the Heaven's Cove series, this emotional yet heartwarming story can be enjoyed as a standalone novel and is a must-read.

[Sally Coles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another lovely book by this author and great to carry on with the series. As always you are drawn into the story and the characters from the first page. As with typical village life there is always plenty going on and lots of great characters with the main ones being the two sisters who have grown apart over the years and are now thrown back together with a dilemma and a mystery to solve. Prefect light hearted read that can easily be read as a standalone but I would recommend reading them all

[Sue Wallace · Rating 4 out of 5]

The Sisters at the Last House Before the Sea by Liz Eeles.
Heaven's Cove Book 6.
Sitting by the window with views of the shining sea, a white-haired woman seals an envelope with trembling hands and thinks of her grandchildren – two sisters who haven’t spoken for years. Will her final message bring them back together?
This was a good read. I did like Isla. I am enjoying this series. I do hope there is more to come. 4*.

[Libby Reidy · Rating 5 out of 5]

I am enjoying this series of books by this author and this one did not disappoint. Set in a beautiful English coastal town, two sisters are reunited after their grandmother has passed away. Left with a mysterious clue to solve, the sisters will find what family means. A good read for a rainy cool day.

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love this cover! It’s a quick story about two sisters at different paths in their life. Both coming to terms with their loss and where to go from here.
It’s a lovely story set in a nice sounding location. I liked the characters and the little mystery their Gram set for them.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the early copy