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Cottage by the Sea #5
Second Chances at the Cottage by the Sea
As she watches the island come into view, Eleanor wonders if this remote place might hold the answers she’s spent her life searching for…
When Eleanor Markham is asked to run a festival on St Brannock’s Island , she instantly accepts. She needs something new to focus on after the death of her beloved mother, and she knows that her mother was adopted from the island. Is it possible Eleanor will find her lost family in this remote place?
When she arrives, Eleanor is welcomed by the islanders. All except rugged farmer Bruno Roskelly , who glares at her with his piercing dark-brown eyes. He doesn’t want the festival to take place on his land but, as Eleanor tries to persuade him, she realises his gruff exterior hides a kind heart that was broken many years ago.
With Bruno’s help, Eleanor discovers that she is staying in the very cottage where her mother was born. And as she gets closer to learning who her grandmother might be, she uncovers the story of a remarkable woman who lived in the cottage too, and who risked everything to protect the islanders during the Second World War , as well as to be with the man she loved…
As the fragments of history fall into place, Eleanor feels closer to her family than ever before. But can she take inspiration from her past and be brave once more? And if she does, might she mend Bruno’s broken heart, and perhaps even her own?
A heartbreaking, stunning and unforgettable read, perfect for fans of compelling family dramas and for readers who enjoy the novels of Debbie Macomber, Fiona Valpy and Nancy Thayer.
Praise for Rebecca Alexander’s Island Cottage
‘ WOW!!!! Clear your schedules and grab the tissues as you will need them!!! … Devastatingly heartbreaking and beautiful… I was utterly glued to the pages … I was carrying my phone to read it on kindle every chance that I got… I had tears absolutely streaming down my face … This is one of those books that will stay with me for a long time … Absolutely amazing!!! I LOVED it .’ Bookworm86 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ I was hooked from the first page! … Amazing … If there were 6 stars available, I’d give it 6 ! ’ @karen_loves_reading ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Outstanding . I’ll be sorry to not have it to read tonight, but couldn’t put the book down! ’ NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Wonderful … Intriguing , heart-warming and inspiring … This book hits all the feels … An amazing story, I loved it .’ Page Turner ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Oh my goodness ... Wish I could give the book more than five stars .’ NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Absolutely spectacular … best I’ve read … will pull at your heartstrings.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Wow! … It really touched my heart in so many ways …
When Eleanor Markham is asked to run a festival on St Brannock’s Island , she instantly accepts. She needs something new to focus on after the death of her beloved mother, and she knows that her mother was adopted from the island. Is it possible Eleanor will find her lost family in this remote place?
When she arrives, Eleanor is welcomed by the islanders. All except rugged farmer Bruno Roskelly , who glares at her with his piercing dark-brown eyes. He doesn’t want the festival to take place on his land but, as Eleanor tries to persuade him, she realises his gruff exterior hides a kind heart that was broken many years ago.
With Bruno’s help, Eleanor discovers that she is staying in the very cottage where her mother was born. And as she gets closer to learning who her grandmother might be, she uncovers the story of a remarkable woman who lived in the cottage too, and who risked everything to protect the islanders during the Second World War , as well as to be with the man she loved…
As the fragments of history fall into place, Eleanor feels closer to her family than ever before. But can she take inspiration from her past and be brave once more? And if she does, might she mend Bruno’s broken heart, and perhaps even her own?
A heartbreaking, stunning and unforgettable read, perfect for fans of compelling family dramas and for readers who enjoy the novels of Debbie Macomber, Fiona Valpy and Nancy Thayer.
Praise for Rebecca Alexander’s Island Cottage
‘ WOW!!!! Clear your schedules and grab the tissues as you will need them!!! … Devastatingly heartbreaking and beautiful… I was utterly glued to the pages … I was carrying my phone to read it on kindle every chance that I got… I had tears absolutely streaming down my face … This is one of those books that will stay with me for a long time … Absolutely amazing!!! I LOVED it .’ Bookworm86 ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ I was hooked from the first page! … Amazing … If there were 6 stars available, I’d give it 6 ! ’ @karen_loves_reading ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Outstanding . I’ll be sorry to not have it to read tonight, but couldn’t put the book down! ’ NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Wonderful … Intriguing , heart-warming and inspiring … This book hits all the feels … An amazing story, I loved it .’ Page Turner ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Oh my goodness ... Wish I could give the book more than five stars .’ NetGalley reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Absolutely spectacular … best I’ve read … will pull at your heartstrings.’ Goodreads reviewer ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
‘ Wow! … It really touched my heart in so many ways …
324 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 18, 2024
850 people are currently reading
127 people want to read
About the author
Rebecca Alexander
40 books155 followersHaving had a career in psychology, Rebecca Alexander decided to take time out to raise and home educate six children - and home educate herself with an MA in Creative Writing. The Secrets of Life and Death (2013) was a runner up in the 2011 novel writing competition with Mslexia and an agent and book deal for three books ensued. The Secrets of Blood and Bone (2014) and The Secrets of Time and Fate (2016) were published by Del Rey UK. With a historical strand exploring 16th century sorcery and a contemporary story about revenants, the books enjoyed a fantasy readership.
Since then, A Baby's Bones will be published by Titan Books (May 1 2018) and is decidedly crime. A sequel comes out next April, and the books follow the work of an archaeologist trying to solve crimes in the past. And staying safe in the present, with the help of Felix Guichard from the Secrets series. Things are still going bump in the night.
Since then, A Baby's Bones will be published by Titan Books (May 1 2018) and is decidedly crime. A sequel comes out next April, and the books follow the work of an archaeologist trying to solve crimes in the past. And staying safe in the present, with the help of Felix Guichard from the Secrets series. Things are still going bump in the night.
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Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
January 19, 2024
This is the 5th book in Rebecca Alexander’s Island Cottage series, but each book can be read as a standalone. Second Chances at the Cottage by the Sea is a dual timeline story set in the 1940s and the present. Eleanor Markham is grieving the loss of her mother. She is trying to get back into the swing of things at work, so when a group of residents from St Brannock’s Island approach her company to plan a festival on the Atlantic islands, she agrees to take point. Not only will it be a great way to get back into planning, but she is hoping to find out more about her past. Her mother was adopted and recently getting her birth certificate, knows the name of her biological mother and the fact that she was born on St. Brannock's. Is it possible Eleanor will find her lost family in this remote place? The storyline set in the 1940s is the story of Doctor Dorothy, a female doctor who bought the island practice, and struggled to be accepted.
I enjoyed both of the storylines, which doesn't happen often. Eleanor was such a wonderful character, smart, independent, loving, but grieving as well. She wants to find out about her family, but at times doesn't. Meeting Sally, the owner of the B&B where she was staying made her feel welcome and if she belonged. Sally was a great character, a lifelong St. Brannock's resident that helped Eleanor with her research as well as being a neighbour to the farmer whose property they needed to use for the festival. Bruno has his own baggage from his past and it took a while to open up to Eleanor. Ruby, his daughter was a delight and I loved her character. At times it was heartbreaking, especially when learning about the health conditions in the 40s. There is also romance in both timelines that was perfect and I loved the slow development for both. Overall this was a story of family, secrets, grief, new beginnings, communities and more. Rebecca Alexander does a great job meshing the two storylines and developing the story. I have only read two books in this series, but I am looking forward to reading the others.
I enjoyed both of the storylines, which doesn't happen often. Eleanor was such a wonderful character, smart, independent, loving, but grieving as well. She wants to find out about her family, but at times doesn't. Meeting Sally, the owner of the B&B where she was staying made her feel welcome and if she belonged. Sally was a great character, a lifelong St. Brannock's resident that helped Eleanor with her research as well as being a neighbour to the farmer whose property they needed to use for the festival. Bruno has his own baggage from his past and it took a while to open up to Eleanor. Ruby, his daughter was a delight and I loved her character. At times it was heartbreaking, especially when learning about the health conditions in the 40s. There is also romance in both timelines that was perfect and I loved the slow development for both. Overall this was a story of family, secrets, grief, new beginnings, communities and more. Rebecca Alexander does a great job meshing the two storylines and developing the story. I have only read two books in this series, but I am looking forward to reading the others.
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May 19, 2025This made me feel warm and fuzzy? During office hours?
January 10, 2024
What a heartfelt yet heartbreaking story that I just could not stop reading.
There is a lot going on within the story which was hard for me to follow in the beginning. But, after a few chapters, I started remembering all the characters and the timelines.
I loved everything about this story! There is past history in the story along with romance, drama and humor.
Author, Rebecca Alexander, writes beautiful, heartwarming stories that just pull you in and won’t let you go. I have read the previous books in this series and loved each one. But, I think this is my new favorite ;)
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.
There is a lot going on within the story which was hard for me to follow in the beginning. But, after a few chapters, I started remembering all the characters and the timelines.
I loved everything about this story! There is past history in the story along with romance, drama and humor.
Author, Rebecca Alexander, writes beautiful, heartwarming stories that just pull you in and won’t let you go. I have read the previous books in this series and loved each one. But, I think this is my new favorite ;)
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.
January 12, 2024
What an outstanding and completely engaging masterpiece! I have adored Rebecca Alexander’s Island Cottage series so much and Book 5 is my absolute favourite! Rich history, captivating mystery and magical scenery weave together to create a stunning narrative that pulls fiercely on the heartstrings. There is a beautiful flow to this dual timeline that eases us back and forth with a gentle persuasion. I loved both threads but the 1940’s captured my heart a little more. It was a great reminder and learning experience to go back to an era before modern medical advances and how the island people dealt with a more limited and natural remedy/old wives tale approach to healthcare. It was also a tough time for women doctors to be acknowledged, trusted or taken seriously. Even worse for those who attempted to set up practices on the islands. New blood, innovative ways and fresh approaches were frowned upon or ignored by the locals. To watch Dorothy overcome the odds and the prejudices that tried to derail her was seriously uplifting. She never gave up trying to win the people over with her common sense, persistence and kindness. Eventually she made headway but not without taking some advice from friends and colleagues, making peace with the local ‘nurse’ and teaming up with an American male doctor. Her unselfish acts of kindness, tireless dedication and endearing sacrifice reveal her admirable strength of character. And for these and other reasons, she became my favourite heroine of this series.
Second Chances at the Cottage by the Sea is aptly titled as it definitely is about starting over for a number of the characters who grace this heart-touching novel. In the modern timeline, Eleanor Markham is asked to set up a festival on St Brannock’s Island. She decides to go for two reasons. She loves her work but also hopes to learn more about her mother’s past connection to the island—including her adoption. Now that her mother has passed on, she misses her terribly and wants to honour her memory. In the process, between work and socialising, she meets some interesting people who were part of her mother’s past. On this emotional journey, she begins to find the answers she seeks, while the island and its people work their magic on her. A once grumpy farmer named Bruno and his lively daughter make a huge impression on her heart and help her unravel some mysteries surrounding her family.
Searching one’s roots, discovering the branches that lie beneath plus creating new family connections, is what this story is about. The call of the past on future generations is a strong one and we see this in Eleanor. In order to move forward and experience healing for herself and to offer it to others, she must uncover truths that have been buried a long time. The Doctor’s cottage has witnessed many events in the past and Eleanor ends up staying in the same residence where she learns many things. It will be uncomfortable at first but eventually a flood of peace will follow. As this story graciously unfolds, and the two story lines come together in a beautiful natural union between passionate souls, many ghosts are laid to rest. Second Chances at the Cottage by the Sea delivers a delightful homespun tender and triumphant ending that will stay with me a long time. I highly recommend this novel. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a review copy.
Second Chances at the Cottage by the Sea is aptly titled as it definitely is about starting over for a number of the characters who grace this heart-touching novel. In the modern timeline, Eleanor Markham is asked to set up a festival on St Brannock’s Island. She decides to go for two reasons. She loves her work but also hopes to learn more about her mother’s past connection to the island—including her adoption. Now that her mother has passed on, she misses her terribly and wants to honour her memory. In the process, between work and socialising, she meets some interesting people who were part of her mother’s past. On this emotional journey, she begins to find the answers she seeks, while the island and its people work their magic on her. A once grumpy farmer named Bruno and his lively daughter make a huge impression on her heart and help her unravel some mysteries surrounding her family.
Searching one’s roots, discovering the branches that lie beneath plus creating new family connections, is what this story is about. The call of the past on future generations is a strong one and we see this in Eleanor. In order to move forward and experience healing for herself and to offer it to others, she must uncover truths that have been buried a long time. The Doctor’s cottage has witnessed many events in the past and Eleanor ends up staying in the same residence where she learns many things. It will be uncomfortable at first but eventually a flood of peace will follow. As this story graciously unfolds, and the two story lines come together in a beautiful natural union between passionate souls, many ghosts are laid to rest. Second Chances at the Cottage by the Sea delivers a delightful homespun tender and triumphant ending that will stay with me a long time. I highly recommend this novel. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a review copy.
January 29, 2024
Second Chances at the Cottage by the Sea is a heartwarming read by Rebecca Alexander. Eleanor Markham is trying to find out about her family. Eleanor is asked to plan a music festival on St. Brannock's Island. She's never been, but she knows her mother was adopted from the island. Eleanor is dealing with the grief of losing her beloved mother and needs a distraction. Will Eleanor be able to locate her extended family while on the island? She's hoping people on the island will have information.
As Eleanor settles in to a cottage she discovers that her mother was born in the same cottage. Eleanor grows close to Sally, the woman who owns the cottage, and they become fast friends. Eleanor needs help from Bruno, the neighbor who owns a farm. She needs to use his fields for the festival and is hoping he will agree. He is very gruff and unapproachable at first, but his daughter helps smooth things over. Ruby is a remarkable young woman and is excited for the music festival. Bruno doesn't want her anywhere near the festival and has told her and Eleanor that.
As Eleanor continues to work on planning the festival things begin to fall into place. Will Eleanor be able to pull off a successful festival? Will she find out about her family? Could she be closer to her grandmother than she knows? As Bruno warms up to Eleanor will they have a chance at love? Bruno is still getting over his wife leaving him as she couldn't get used to the island. Can he open up to Eleanor and give love a second chance?
Second Chances at the Cottage by the Sea is told in two timelines. One is in the 1940's where you learn about the cottage and what it was used for in the past and the other is current time. Both timelines are fascinating and you'll have a hard time forgetting these characters. I rate Second Chances at the Cottage by the Sea 4 stars with a high recommendation. I enjoyed the book a great deal and think you will, too. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for an advanced copy of Second Chances at the Cottage by the Sea in exchange for a fair review. #SecondChancesAtTheCottageByTheSea
As Eleanor settles in to a cottage she discovers that her mother was born in the same cottage. Eleanor grows close to Sally, the woman who owns the cottage, and they become fast friends. Eleanor needs help from Bruno, the neighbor who owns a farm. She needs to use his fields for the festival and is hoping he will agree. He is very gruff and unapproachable at first, but his daughter helps smooth things over. Ruby is a remarkable young woman and is excited for the music festival. Bruno doesn't want her anywhere near the festival and has told her and Eleanor that.
As Eleanor continues to work on planning the festival things begin to fall into place. Will Eleanor be able to pull off a successful festival? Will she find out about her family? Could she be closer to her grandmother than she knows? As Bruno warms up to Eleanor will they have a chance at love? Bruno is still getting over his wife leaving him as she couldn't get used to the island. Can he open up to Eleanor and give love a second chance?
Second Chances at the Cottage by the Sea is told in two timelines. One is in the 1940's where you learn about the cottage and what it was used for in the past and the other is current time. Both timelines are fascinating and you'll have a hard time forgetting these characters. I rate Second Chances at the Cottage by the Sea 4 stars with a high recommendation. I enjoyed the book a great deal and think you will, too. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Bookouture for an advanced copy of Second Chances at the Cottage by the Sea in exchange for a fair review. #SecondChancesAtTheCottageByTheSea
January 18, 2024
Eleanor Markham is still grieving the death of her mother. So when she was asked to organize a festival on St. Brannock’s Island she immediately accepts the offer. She could use the distraction and knowing that her mother was from the remote island she saw it as an opportunity to find her family. The locals welcome her with open arms, except for Bruno Roskelly. With his help she discovers that she is staying the cottage that her mother was born in. She soon finds out that grandmother was also a resident of the cottage. As Eleanor continues to research her family history, she is completely enthralled with what she has uncovered, the ties of her American heritage, and the new family she has discovered from the island.
Second Chances at the Cottage by the Sea authored by Rebecca Alexander is a wonderfully written novel. This book was a completely engaging storyline that takes place in dual timelines. This heartbreaking and inspiring story left me teary-eyed and unable to stop reading. This was a rapid read for me because I absolutely loved the people and felt every emotion as I turned each page. The story itself is beautifully written and I was pulled in from the very first page. This is the fifth book in The Island Cottage series. It can be read as a standalone, but my suggestion is to start this phenomenal series from the first book. It a series that feels like home and family. I highly recommend it.
Second Chances at the Cottage by the Sea authored by Rebecca Alexander is a wonderfully written novel. This book was a completely engaging storyline that takes place in dual timelines. This heartbreaking and inspiring story left me teary-eyed and unable to stop reading. This was a rapid read for me because I absolutely loved the people and felt every emotion as I turned each page. The story itself is beautifully written and I was pulled in from the very first page. This is the fifth book in The Island Cottage series. It can be read as a standalone, but my suggestion is to start this phenomenal series from the first book. It a series that feels like home and family. I highly recommend it.
January 18, 2024
4* Who could resist this eye-catching book cover
A fascinating plot moving back and forth through the decades, opening during wartime 1943 and continuing to the present day.
Eleanor Markham has an ambitious plan to hold a summer music festival on St. Brannock, one of a group of small islands thirty miles from the coast of Cornwall. The islanders, realising that the festival will bring in much needed revenue, are enthusiastic about Eleanor’s idea, everyone except farmer Bruno Roskelly who refuses to allow the festival to use his land. Eleanor’s first job is to persuade Bruno to change his mind, difficult when he continually avoids her.
Staying on the island at the Doctor’s House she learns some of it's history from the present owner: evidently Eleanor's mother, who came from St. Brannock, was born in the house. Tracing her mother’s history, Eleanor makes a startling discovery forever linking her to the islands.
The characters were believable and mostly likeable. I found the book a little confusing with the frequent changes of timelines, once I had set all the characters in my mind, I became absorbed, this isn't a book to read merely a few pages at a time.
A delight to read and recommended.
eARC generously supplied by Bookouture and NetGalley, this review is my personal, unbiased opinion.
A fascinating plot moving back and forth through the decades, opening during wartime 1943 and continuing to the present day.
Eleanor Markham has an ambitious plan to hold a summer music festival on St. Brannock, one of a group of small islands thirty miles from the coast of Cornwall. The islanders, realising that the festival will bring in much needed revenue, are enthusiastic about Eleanor’s idea, everyone except farmer Bruno Roskelly who refuses to allow the festival to use his land. Eleanor’s first job is to persuade Bruno to change his mind, difficult when he continually avoids her.
Staying on the island at the Doctor’s House she learns some of it's history from the present owner: evidently Eleanor's mother, who came from St. Brannock, was born in the house. Tracing her mother’s history, Eleanor makes a startling discovery forever linking her to the islands.
The characters were believable and mostly likeable. I found the book a little confusing with the frequent changes of timelines, once I had set all the characters in my mind, I became absorbed, this isn't a book to read merely a few pages at a time.
A delight to read and recommended.
eARC generously supplied by Bookouture and NetGalley, this review is my personal, unbiased opinion.
January 10, 2024
This story was told in dual timelines. It’s about two women coming to the island. Eleanor is setting up a festival to take place on the island. She also knows that her mother was adopted from this island. She’s hoping to find out more about her family.
Dorothy comes to the island as a Dr and works to raise the health standards for that time. I found myself more interested in the story from the past. Not sure why because both stories are good.
Dorothy comes to the island as a Dr and works to raise the health standards for that time. I found myself more interested in the story from the past. Not sure why because both stories are good.
February 1, 2024
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'Second Chances At The Cottage By The Sea' by Rebecca Alexander.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Rebecca Alexander, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 18th January 2024.
This is the fourth book I have read by this author. It is also the fourth book in 'The Island Cottage' series but can be read as a standalone. I have also read 'Memories Of The Cottage By The Sea' which is the second book in the series, 'Dreams Of The Cottage By The Sea which is the third book in the series and 'Coming Home To The Cottage By The Sea' which is the fourth book in this series. I would highly recommend them all!!
This novel consists a prologue, 51 chapters and an epilogue. 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!
WOW!!!! What can I say?!?! One thing I have got to say before getting into my review is clear your schedules as once you've started you won't be able to stop!!
This book is beautifully written with vivid descriptions setting the picture perfectly in the readers mind. The title, description and cover works perfectly with the storyline.
This book is addictive, beautiful and heart warming. It is an absolute rollercoaster ride of emotions filled with heartbreak, family, love, loss, secrets, friendship, adoption, caring, second chances, community, discrimination and so much more. Rebecca's writing and descriptions are so evocative I really felt I was right next to both Eleanor and Dorothy during the present and past. Reading this book really does make you feel that you are standing with them and going through their pain, love, joy, hope, anger, struggles and suffering. While you are reading this you are going through a journey of love and loss, heartbreak, secrets, love, anger and forgiveness and so, so much more. It really is a rollercoaster ride of emotions. It tells the storylines if both Eleanor from the present day and Dorothy from 1953 until 1970. Eleanor is asked to run a festival on St Brannock’s Island and also knows that her mother who was adopted was also born on the Island. Eleanor is determined to find out more information about her family and while doing so makes friends such as her landlord Sally who she is living with in the old Doctors House and she becomes very close too, trust to persuade the grumpy farmer Bruno to use his land for the festival and to allow his daughter Ruby to attend and much more while struggling with the loss of her mum. Will Bruno allow the festival to go ahead and will they become friends or more? Doctor Dorothy Harding Rowe comes to St Brannock as the new Doctor at the Doctor's House. When she gets there she discovers a woman who claims she is owed money and has been passing herself of as a Nurse, realises that she is not being taken seriously or trusted as a female doctor in the times she lives in and meets the handsome Captain Hector McBride who is a surgeon with the US Army along with dealing with an outbreak of diphtheria and more. can Dorothy change the attitude of the islanders? Will her friendship with Hector help or hinder her? Will Dorothy's story give Eleanor the answers she is looking for? I was utterly glued to the pages and I could not bring myself to put it down. I was carrying my kindle around with me to read it every chance that I got and by the time the gorgeous and heart-warming ending(s) came I was absolutely in love with the Island and the characters. Rebecca has clearly done her history research. Well done Rebecca as there's nothing much worse that reading a novel filled with silly errors as the author hasn't done any research. Rebecca made the Island come alive and living in a village myself she portrayed the life in a small community perfectly, especially the no secrets part as everyone knows everyone else and their business!! The two stories are woven together perfectly and each of the chapters ended in a way I just HAD to know what was going to happen next!! You need to clear your schedules before even peeking in this stunner because you will not be able to put this book down!!! It really is a beautiful storyline and I just adored the friendships and relationships were formed between different characters. This is one of those books that will stay with me for a long time and I cannot wait to jump straight into the next book in this stunning series!
Although this is the fifth book in the series I would have had absolutely no problems reading it without any of the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
It is set over multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture.
The characters are strong, realistic and I became completely invested in both Dorothy and Eleanor. I felt each of their pain, heartbreak, happiness, guilt, anger, joy and so much more. they were both such strong female leads and being female myself I absolutely love coming across such strong female personalities in books. I was rooting them both, along with several of the other characters throughout and I loved getting to know them. Rebecca's fantastic evocative descriptions ensured that I seen and felt everything that both Eleanor and Dorothy were seeing and feeling along with the rest of the characters. Rebecca does an absolutely amazing job of bringing the community of the Island to life and creates an amazing collection of unique and memorable characters and personalities. It is disgraceful how Dorothy was treated as a female doctor but sadly Rebecca has portrayed how female doctors would have been treated in those times perfectly. I was not a fan of Mrs Olly, Mr Bristow and a handful of other characters but what would be the fun in a book if we loved them all? I must admit that although I didn't grow to like one of them I did warm to them but i wont say which one as I don't want to give anything away. There were several other characters that more than made up for the horrid ones such as Hector, Ruby and the lovely Sally amongst many others. I hope I get to meet all these again in the next book in this gorgeous series. I won't say anymore about the characters as I don't want to go into too much detail at the risk of spoiling it for other readers but yet again Rebecca has done another amazing job at bringing each of the characters to life. Well done Rebecca !!!
Congratulations Rebecca on yet another absolutely gorgeous and beautiful book!!! I am looking forward to reading more of your previous and future books especially the rest of the books in what promises to be a stunning series. I would absolutely love to see this book and series turned into a movie!!! This is exactly why you are in my favourite historical author list and here's to your next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely unputdownable, thought provoking, stunning, addictive and compelling devastatingly beautiful, heart-warming and memorable book!!!
324 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!!!
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Review for 'Second Chances At The Cottage By The Sea' by Rebecca Alexander.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Rebecca Alexander, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 18th January 2024.
This is the fourth book I have read by this author. It is also the fourth book in 'The Island Cottage' series but can be read as a standalone. I have also read 'Memories Of The Cottage By The Sea' which is the second book in the series, 'Dreams Of The Cottage By The Sea which is the third book in the series and 'Coming Home To The Cottage By The Sea' which is the fourth book in this series. I would highly recommend them all!!
This novel consists a prologue, 51 chapters and an epilogue. 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!
WOW!!!! What can I say?!?! One thing I have got to say before getting into my review is clear your schedules as once you've started you won't be able to stop!!
This book is beautifully written with vivid descriptions setting the picture perfectly in the readers mind. The title, description and cover works perfectly with the storyline.
This book is addictive, beautiful and heart warming. It is an absolute rollercoaster ride of emotions filled with heartbreak, family, love, loss, secrets, friendship, adoption, caring, second chances, community, discrimination and so much more. Rebecca's writing and descriptions are so evocative I really felt I was right next to both Eleanor and Dorothy during the present and past. Reading this book really does make you feel that you are standing with them and going through their pain, love, joy, hope, anger, struggles and suffering. While you are reading this you are going through a journey of love and loss, heartbreak, secrets, love, anger and forgiveness and so, so much more. It really is a rollercoaster ride of emotions. It tells the storylines if both Eleanor from the present day and Dorothy from 1953 until 1970. Eleanor is asked to run a festival on St Brannock’s Island and also knows that her mother who was adopted was also born on the Island. Eleanor is determined to find out more information about her family and while doing so makes friends such as her landlord Sally who she is living with in the old Doctors House and she becomes very close too, trust to persuade the grumpy farmer Bruno to use his land for the festival and to allow his daughter Ruby to attend and much more while struggling with the loss of her mum. Will Bruno allow the festival to go ahead and will they become friends or more? Doctor Dorothy Harding Rowe comes to St Brannock as the new Doctor at the Doctor's House. When she gets there she discovers a woman who claims she is owed money and has been passing herself of as a Nurse, realises that she is not being taken seriously or trusted as a female doctor in the times she lives in and meets the handsome Captain Hector McBride who is a surgeon with the US Army along with dealing with an outbreak of diphtheria and more. can Dorothy change the attitude of the islanders? Will her friendship with Hector help or hinder her? Will Dorothy's story give Eleanor the answers she is looking for? I was utterly glued to the pages and I could not bring myself to put it down. I was carrying my kindle around with me to read it every chance that I got and by the time the gorgeous and heart-warming ending(s) came I was absolutely in love with the Island and the characters. Rebecca has clearly done her history research. Well done Rebecca as there's nothing much worse that reading a novel filled with silly errors as the author hasn't done any research. Rebecca made the Island come alive and living in a village myself she portrayed the life in a small community perfectly, especially the no secrets part as everyone knows everyone else and their business!! The two stories are woven together perfectly and each of the chapters ended in a way I just HAD to know what was going to happen next!! You need to clear your schedules before even peeking in this stunner because you will not be able to put this book down!!! It really is a beautiful storyline and I just adored the friendships and relationships were formed between different characters. This is one of those books that will stay with me for a long time and I cannot wait to jump straight into the next book in this stunning series!
Although this is the fifth book in the series I would have had absolutely no problems reading it without any of the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.
It is set over multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture.
The characters are strong, realistic and I became completely invested in both Dorothy and Eleanor. I felt each of their pain, heartbreak, happiness, guilt, anger, joy and so much more. they were both such strong female leads and being female myself I absolutely love coming across such strong female personalities in books. I was rooting them both, along with several of the other characters throughout and I loved getting to know them. Rebecca's fantastic evocative descriptions ensured that I seen and felt everything that both Eleanor and Dorothy were seeing and feeling along with the rest of the characters. Rebecca does an absolutely amazing job of bringing the community of the Island to life and creates an amazing collection of unique and memorable characters and personalities. It is disgraceful how Dorothy was treated as a female doctor but sadly Rebecca has portrayed how female doctors would have been treated in those times perfectly. I was not a fan of Mrs Olly, Mr Bristow and a handful of other characters but what would be the fun in a book if we loved them all? I must admit that although I didn't grow to like one of them I did warm to them but i wont say which one as I don't want to give anything away. There were several other characters that more than made up for the horrid ones such as Hector, Ruby and the lovely Sally amongst many others. I hope I get to meet all these again in the next book in this gorgeous series. I won't say anymore about the characters as I don't want to go into too much detail at the risk of spoiling it for other readers but yet again Rebecca has done another amazing job at bringing each of the characters to life. Well done Rebecca !!!
Congratulations Rebecca on yet another absolutely gorgeous and beautiful book!!! I am looking forward to reading more of your previous and future books especially the rest of the books in what promises to be a stunning series. I would absolutely love to see this book and series turned into a movie!!! This is exactly why you are in my favourite historical author list and here's to your next success 🥂
Overall an absolutely unputdownable, thought provoking, stunning, addictive and compelling devastatingly beautiful, heart-warming and memorable book!!!
324 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!!!
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January 21, 2024
It’s always a joy to read a new Rebecca Alexander book. Second Chances at the Cottage by the Sea is the fifth book in the series. Like the other titles, readers can enjoy this as a stand-alone novel.
After taking time away from her job as an event organiser, Eleanor Markham wants to ease back into work after grieving the loss of her mother. When she’s asked to organise a small music festival, she views it as a perfect back to work project. Arriving on St. Brannock, she meets an enthusiastic group of people, eager to promote their small island. When the islanders find out her late mother was born and adopted on the island, they are also keen to help her uncover her family’s history.
In the present, Eleanor is mourning her mother. In the past, we learn so much about the hardships endured by women and the heartbreaking decisions that were made. Therefore, it is satisfying to read how the past and present meet with astonishing results.
This is another fabulous Rebecca Alexander novel. I love how she skilfully weaves the past with the present in such a glorious, heartfelt way.
This and the other books in the series are brimming with delightful, original characters. It’s a delight to dip into their intriguing lives and learn about life, past and present, on a remote island.
If you are yet to discover the delights of the Cottages by the Sea novels, they come highly recommended by me.
***arc received courtesy of the publisher Bookouture via NetGalley***
After taking time away from her job as an event organiser, Eleanor Markham wants to ease back into work after grieving the loss of her mother. When she’s asked to organise a small music festival, she views it as a perfect back to work project. Arriving on St. Brannock, she meets an enthusiastic group of people, eager to promote their small island. When the islanders find out her late mother was born and adopted on the island, they are also keen to help her uncover her family’s history.
In the present, Eleanor is mourning her mother. In the past, we learn so much about the hardships endured by women and the heartbreaking decisions that were made. Therefore, it is satisfying to read how the past and present meet with astonishing results.
This is another fabulous Rebecca Alexander novel. I love how she skilfully weaves the past with the present in such a glorious, heartfelt way.
This and the other books in the series are brimming with delightful, original characters. It’s a delight to dip into their intriguing lives and learn about life, past and present, on a remote island.
If you are yet to discover the delights of the Cottages by the Sea novels, they come highly recommended by me.
***arc received courtesy of the publisher Bookouture via NetGalley***
November 11, 2024
Second Chances at the Cottage By the Sea by Rebecca Alexander is the fifth book in a series called Cottage by the Sea. I ran across the novel by accident and fell in love! I have to admit I have gone back and found all the prior books and read them. The islands off Cornwall are the setting. Each book contains two stories; one present day and one in the past. The stories are all tied to the islands and the people who live on the island. Each novel can be read as a stand alone. While some of the characters interconnect, there is no information that is needed for the prior knowledge.
Most of the stories from the past are from WWII and I found the stories fascinating. The role of the islands in protecting Britain, helping share information and saving wounded airmen. I was fascinated by the people and their stories of survival.
In this particular novel, we meet Eleanor Markham. Her company has been hired to help the island figure out how to have a music festival to help bring money and tourism to the area. The difficulty of transportation, having enough to do, places to stay and food to eat is what Eleanor Markham does. One of her needed tasks was to ask Bruno Roskelly to lend her land for camping. Eleanor and Bruno slowly began to make a bond.
Eleanor stayed at a bed and breakfast with Sally. Sally is an older lady who only opens her home to people now and again. The bed and breakfast is where the old Doctor's once lived and worked. When she came to the island, Eleanor also knew she wanted to explore more about her mother’s early life. From what she has found so far, her mother was born on the island and adopted off the island. She is hoping Sally can help her.
The story from the 1940s was with the first woman doctor to come live on the island. Dr Dorothy had to work so hard to even get people to accept her as the doctor. She struggled to make a living and help the women. Eleanor’s story was part of this story (you just know it).
I loved this book. I loved this series. I loved reading this author. The island people were really the key to the novel, between their strong backbones and their pitch-in and help everyone attitude. The stories Rebecca Alexander tells in her books are touching, emotional and always hopeful! Second Chances at the Cottage By the Sea by Rebecca Alexander is an awesome read!!!
Most of the stories from the past are from WWII and I found the stories fascinating. The role of the islands in protecting Britain, helping share information and saving wounded airmen. I was fascinated by the people and their stories of survival.
In this particular novel, we meet Eleanor Markham. Her company has been hired to help the island figure out how to have a music festival to help bring money and tourism to the area. The difficulty of transportation, having enough to do, places to stay and food to eat is what Eleanor Markham does. One of her needed tasks was to ask Bruno Roskelly to lend her land for camping. Eleanor and Bruno slowly began to make a bond.
Eleanor stayed at a bed and breakfast with Sally. Sally is an older lady who only opens her home to people now and again. The bed and breakfast is where the old Doctor's once lived and worked. When she came to the island, Eleanor also knew she wanted to explore more about her mother’s early life. From what she has found so far, her mother was born on the island and adopted off the island. She is hoping Sally can help her.
The story from the 1940s was with the first woman doctor to come live on the island. Dr Dorothy had to work so hard to even get people to accept her as the doctor. She struggled to make a living and help the women. Eleanor’s story was part of this story (you just know it).
I loved this book. I loved this series. I loved reading this author. The island people were really the key to the novel, between their strong backbones and their pitch-in and help everyone attitude. The stories Rebecca Alexander tells in her books are touching, emotional and always hopeful! Second Chances at the Cottage By the Sea by Rebecca Alexander is an awesome read!!!
February 20, 2024
Thank you to Netgalley, the publishing house and the author for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of this book in return for a review based upon my honest opinion.
This is the fifth book in the Island Cottages series, each book could be read as a stand alone book but it is such a lovely series, that I recommend reading them all. As with the other, this is a dual timeline story.
This book takes us to St. Brannock Island, where in the present, Eleanor is arranging a music festival, to bring the islands together and to promote them for tourists. Eleanor hopes that in fact, she will find out about her mother’s history; her mother, Diana who had recently passed away was born and adopted from the Island. Eleanor instantly feels at home on the Island and bonds with Sally, who is the owner of the former doctor’s home which is now a bed and breakfast. As Eleanor meets the townspeople and gets to know more about her mother, she meets cranky farmer, Bruno and his sweet daughter, Ruby.
The past story is set in 1943, when Dorothy, the new doctor, buys the practice and moves to St. Brannock not realizing how difficult it will be for a lady doctor to get established and taken seriously. As we learn about Dorothy life’s and go back and forth between the past and present, the story comes to fruition and what a lovely story it is. I cannot wait for more books in this series.
This is the fifth book in the Island Cottages series, each book could be read as a stand alone book but it is such a lovely series, that I recommend reading them all. As with the other, this is a dual timeline story.
This book takes us to St. Brannock Island, where in the present, Eleanor is arranging a music festival, to bring the islands together and to promote them for tourists. Eleanor hopes that in fact, she will find out about her mother’s history; her mother, Diana who had recently passed away was born and adopted from the Island. Eleanor instantly feels at home on the Island and bonds with Sally, who is the owner of the former doctor’s home which is now a bed and breakfast. As Eleanor meets the townspeople and gets to know more about her mother, she meets cranky farmer, Bruno and his sweet daughter, Ruby.
The past story is set in 1943, when Dorothy, the new doctor, buys the practice and moves to St. Brannock not realizing how difficult it will be for a lady doctor to get established and taken seriously. As we learn about Dorothy life’s and go back and forth between the past and present, the story comes to fruition and what a lovely story it is. I cannot wait for more books in this series.
January 17, 2024
Rebecca Alexander's Second Chances at the Cottage by the Sea is book 5 of The Island Cottage series and this latest novel takes us on a breathtaking journey back to the Atlantic Islands.
Told across two different timelines, the story revolves around Eleanor, who has been assigned the task of organizing a festival on St Brannock's Island. Curious about her ancestry, Eleanor sets out to discover more about her mother's adoption on the island in 1970.
Eleanor finds herself in a bit of a predicament when the land she wants to use for the festival is owned by the brusque and unfriendly Bruno. Despite his initial hostility, Eleanor works hard to gain his cooperation, and soon discovers that there's more to Bruno than meets the eye. As the two converse, Eleanor begins to suspect that she was born in the very house she is staying in.
This is an absolutely heartwarming tale that may leave you reaching for the tissues! Even if you haven't read the prior books in the series, Second Chances at the Cottage by the Sea can be enjoyed as a standalone novel. Don't hesitate to grab your copy today!
Told across two different timelines, the story revolves around Eleanor, who has been assigned the task of organizing a festival on St Brannock's Island. Curious about her ancestry, Eleanor sets out to discover more about her mother's adoption on the island in 1970.
Eleanor finds herself in a bit of a predicament when the land she wants to use for the festival is owned by the brusque and unfriendly Bruno. Despite his initial hostility, Eleanor works hard to gain his cooperation, and soon discovers that there's more to Bruno than meets the eye. As the two converse, Eleanor begins to suspect that she was born in the very house she is staying in.
This is an absolutely heartwarming tale that may leave you reaching for the tissues! Even if you haven't read the prior books in the series, Second Chances at the Cottage by the Sea can be enjoyed as a standalone novel. Don't hesitate to grab your copy today!
March 21, 2024
Beautiful storytelling
I can't get enough of this author's books, storytelling. I am transported instantly to the Atlantic islands. The characters come to life and keep me glued to the story.
I highly recommend this author's books and this series that each tell their own story but can be connected to the other books. I'm trying to be patient for the next book so I'm starting over with the first book. The emotional rollercoaster is wonderful. Happiness, sorrows, worries, love, life's lessons. Each book embraces all!
I can't get enough of this author's books, storytelling. I am transported instantly to the Atlantic islands. The characters come to life and keep me glued to the story.
I highly recommend this author's books and this series that each tell their own story but can be connected to the other books. I'm trying to be patient for the next book so I'm starting over with the first book. The emotional rollercoaster is wonderful. Happiness, sorrows, worries, love, life's lessons. Each book embraces all!
April 28, 2024
This novel was a very enjoyable and satisfying read. It tells the story of a woman who goes on an emotional journey to trace her family roots after the death of her mother. Set on a rugged island off the English coast, the book immerses you in a fascinating place with beautifully drawn characters and an intricately fashioned plot. This was my first time reading Rebecca Alexander's work but I am looking forward to reading other novels in this series.
December 26, 2023
This novel is a tribute to the strength of women, the importance of community, and the healing power of understanding one's roots. It's a heartfelt and immersive read, perfect for those who love family sagas with a blend of romance and history.
March 12, 2024
A cozy mystery with romance was quite good. Went back and forth from 1939 on and current day. Was easy to follow and very likable characters. Would read. More of this series.
July 15, 2024
I found this book to be confusing in the beginning, going back and forth between the people. Once, I got into the book, I really liked it and how the story was written in different people's life.
September 13, 2024
A book I couldn't put down.
October 7, 2024
Good story, expected format from the latest in this series , easy reading
February 9, 2026
Great Book!
December 21, 2023
After the death of her mother, Eleanor Markham starts back gently at work. She needs to arrange a festival on St. Brannock’s island, which, coincidentally, is where her mother was born and adopted.
The islanders are looking forward to having a festival, except for one, local farmer, Bruno Roskelly. As Eleanor tries to talk Bruno round, it’s not long before she realises she has feelings for him.
When Eleanor finds out she is staying in the place where her mother was born, she starts to learn more from the locals.
This was a beautiful and well written story. I found it to be moving and could feel Eleanor’s frustration and pain at times.
The characters were believable and all had a part to play in Eleanor’s journey.
I liked how the story was told over two timelines and how they joined at the end to become one.
My thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
The islanders are looking forward to having a festival, except for one, local farmer, Bruno Roskelly. As Eleanor tries to talk Bruno round, it’s not long before she realises she has feelings for him.
When Eleanor finds out she is staying in the place where her mother was born, she starts to learn more from the locals.
This was a beautiful and well written story. I found it to be moving and could feel Eleanor’s frustration and pain at times.
The characters were believable and all had a part to play in Eleanor’s journey.
I liked how the story was told over two timelines and how they joined at the end to become one.
My thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for a copy in exchange for my honest review.
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