Welcome to The Emerald Heart Hotel – The sign on the big gate is faded, and the gate is usually locked because the hotel closed two years ago when Mignon King lost her husband. His death, on top of the loss of their daughter many years before, has Mignon mired in grief. But it’s more than grief that has her trapped. Before she can move on, she must decide what to do with the hotel she and her husband owned and managed for more than two decades. She lives there alone with her dog, Galahad, though even Mignon would hardly call it living. She wants to be happy again, to find a new way forward, but she’s stuck.
Her longtime friend, Dominick, a real estate agent, wants her to sell the hotel property. Old hotel aside, the acreage alone in the town of Emerald Isle and fronting on Bogue Sound, is valuable and will bring many offers, but that’s also part of the problem. Mignon loves the Emerald Heart property and feels responsible for it and wants to protect her husband’s memory. What might new owners do with the property? What might they destroy?
On a strange day in early September, a man shows up unexpectedly on her dock. He’s charming. And he’s interested in the Emerald Heart property. On that same day, her long-estranged sister-in-law, Jeanette, returns, and Mignon’s troubles magnify as Jeannette’s arrival stirs up old anger and creates a volatile, emotional mix. Disquieting things begin to happen around the property, worrying Mignon. She knows she must make a decision, but she doesn’t know how to break with the past and move forward.
Dominick, Blake, Jeanette—who stands to gain if Mignon decides to sell? Who can she trust?
And the past . . . its hold on her is so strong that she’s not even sure she can trust herself.
Grace Greene writes fiction with romance, suspense and inspiration ~ The Emerald Isle, NC Stories Series includes Beach Rental, Beach Winds, Beach Wedding, along with the Christmas novellas, Beach Christmas and Beach Walk. Her Virginia books are Women's Fiction with romance, suspense and mystery. Most are set in rural Cub Creek and include her bestselling The Memory of Butterflies and The Happiness In Between which were released in 2017. Three new Cub Creek books were released in 2019 - The Wildflower House Series: Wildflower Heart, Wildflower Hope and Wildflower Christmas, and Wildflower Wedding, A Light Last Seen was released in Feb. 2020. A Barefoot Tide and A Dancing Tide brought a new character from Cub Creek to the beach at Emerald Isle with beloved crossover characters from both settings. Beach Heart and Emerald Heart are single titles set in Emerald Isle, NC. Grace's newest, A HEART BEYOND, will be released on September 3rd, 2024.
Grace is also an artist and photographer and these interests show up on the pages of the stories. She lives in central Virginia. You'll find Grace here:
What an amazingly beautiful, heartbreaking, while also heartwarming story! Mignon has had more than her share of loss and sadness in her life. First she loses her daughter at such a young age and then just a few years ago, her husband dies. She is the lonely widow living on the hill in a huge place that is getting more run down every day.
Of course, there are swarms of people wanting to purchase her property but Mignon is not sure she is ready to move on with her life. Maybe she's content to live in this old, closed down hotel that is full of her memories and love. She does have her faithful dog to keep her company, so there is that.
The stranger on the beach, her estranged sister-in-law who suddenly appears back in her life, and her long time realtor friend all seem to want something different from her but she doesn't even know what she wants for herself.
Grace Greene always writes very descriptive, beautiful stories that make me want to escape to the world she has created. I want to be a part of her characters' lives and be their friend. I devoured Emerald Heart and as Ms. Greene has written sequels for some of her previous books, I'm really hoping I'll get to visit the Emerald Heart again. I just feel like there are more stories there. I highly recommend Emerald Heart!
I loved everything about this beautifully written book. Emerald Heart is Mignon's story of finding herself again after her husband, Arthur dies. They owned the Emerald Heart Hotel together and after his death, she closed the doors and closed herself off from pretty much everything. Enter handsome neighbor Blake, trusted friend Dominick, and, oh no, long estranged sister-in-law Jeanette. With Sir Galahad, her best companion/furry friend, she searches for a new start. Great story! Magnificent setting! And to be honest, I feel that this book absolutely calls for a Part 2! It was so good, and I highly recommend it, and anything else Grace Greene writes!
Author Grace Greene always tugs at your heart, but with her latest book, Emerald Heart, she grabs it and shakes it. This is one emotional book. You want to hug Mignon, then you want to shake her, then you want to hug her again. But she’s closed herself off emotionally and she won’t let you get near enough for hugs or shakes.
Grief is real and hard and unrelenting. For most people, usually, maybe, at the start the grief is right there, right in your face and it’s the filter between it and everything else you see and do. But over time, maybe a long time, but usually eventually, the grief moves to the side. You can still see it, it’s always there, things will always be different, but you don’t have to look through it, don’t have to fight your way through it for every single thing, large or small, that you want to accomplish.
Except for Mignon. For her the grief never moved to the side. She sees all of it all of the time. She knows the past is real, the tragedies occurred, but the hope is strong that maybe, just maybe, something will be different someday. So she’s frozen in time, in place, afraid to forget, unable to move on. She has friends but only reveals tiny bits of herself and is quick to pull them back. She knows she needs to make decisions, needs to make a life for herself – but can she?
Mignon is now the sole owner of the Emerald Heart Hotel that she once ran with her husband. Originally his dream, not hers, but they had a good life and she was happy. But Arthur’s been gone two years now and she can’t continue as she has been. She can’t afford to operate the hotel on her own, but neither can she afford to continue the minimal upkeep she’s been doing. There have been many offers to buy, but the property would likely be razed and redeveloped. Could she let that happen? Wouldn’t that be abandoning the child they lost and the husband she loved – and needed – so much?
Mignon is a difficult character. She’s stubborn and withdrawn and angry and suspicious and confused. Not easy to deal with. She has managed to retain some friends, but she is the only one who can decide if she will retreat forever or take a risk. Complicated, and even more complicated when she feels pressure from her and Arthur’s long-time friend Dominick to make up her mind, and when her ex-sister-in-law Jeanette shows up and old wounds and hurts and anger resurface, and when a man named Blake moves in next door. Is he interested in her or her property? Does she want him to be interested in either or is it all too terrifying?
Emerald Heart is another wonderful story from this wonderful author. It’s heartbreaking and sweet and just won’t let you go. The characters are so real you feel every emotion with them. You feel the despair and the hopelessness and then just a little bit of joy creeps in and it feels so good. This is such a satisfying read. Don’t miss it. Thanks to the author for providing an advance copy of Emerald Heart as part of her review crew. I recommend it without hesitation, and while you’re at it go back and read everything Greene has written. You will love them all. I voluntarily leave this review; all opinions are my own.
For all the Grace Greene fans out there that have been waiting for a new book, she's baaack! And better than ever.
Emerald Heart is a hotel slash B&B slash private home all in one. Mignon and the love of her life, Arthur, made this small hotel their own, lived on site, and thrived. The setting is fantastic and is described, with all the changes of season and nuances, in Grace Greene's signature inimitable way. No one does descriptions like this author!
Mignon has dealt with some seriously heavy blows and finds herself, if not a recluse, an avoider of people and the ugliness of daily life. She and her dog Galahad are content with each other and life in the Emerald Heart until...and the until, the unfolding of this story of the heart, of the very soul, is what will pull you in even as Mignon tries hard to drive you away.
Deep down I think Mignon's a beautiful soul just too tender for all she's had to bear, but the Mignon we meet in this novel is the one that the townsfolk have come to know - the one that closes herself off lest she be hurt, in advance of any hurt, almost like a cactus with all its spines. But hang in there with her, because slowly and oh so hesitantly, Mignon will allow you in to where her deepest heart lives and in between, while you wait, you will experience the gifts that make up a Grace Green novel.
These are the lush, vivid descriptions that are trademark Grace Greene. You'll get to know Mignon's home, her property, friends, and the town and once Mignon's heart lets you in, you'll be glad you were patient and stayed along for the ride. This book is one of healing, hope, and steadfastness - that of friends and even relatives.
You won't be disappointed with any of this author's novels, but this stand alone novel, Emerald Heart, rewards the patient reader like no other. I can already imagine the author's loyal readers clamoring for a sequel, so I hope Ms. Greene is prepared for that. I received an ARC from the author at my request and all thoughts are my own, as always, and happily shared.
Sometimes Life Just Breaks You. If you find yourself in this place, this is the kind of book you *need* to read. It will hurt. You will cry. But maybe, just maybe, you'll find a modicum of catharsis here too.
If you haven't found yourself in this place - yet - read this too. Maybe get a better understanding of the "bitter old woman recluse" in your life. Because let's face it - we *all* either have one of these or had one of these or very likely will have one of these in our lives at some point. And to be clear, it isn't just women, as men could very easily be shown to be dealing with identical things as are shown in this book. But this particular tale happens to be a women's fiction tale focused on a woman and her relationships, and thus the description above.
Told with Greene's usual great care to characterization and description, you're both going to feel like you're there on Emerald Isle with these characters *and* you're going to feel their issues as though there were your own. Because, again, Greene shows us that no matter where we are in life, at some point nearly all of us will see ourselves in at least one of these characters and what they are going through in theirs.
And there, there is where Greene truly shows Grace ( ;) ) and hope.
This is an emotional, warm, story about a woman who has lost the two most important people in her life. She needs to learn how to step forward with her life's journey. But.. How? Mignon lost her beloved husband Arthur, two years ago and though she still lives in the hotel they own, she has closed it down as well as her life. He was her strength and Emerald Heart was his dream.
Her wonderful dog Galahad, is the only thing now that reluctantly gets her up each day. She has become a hermit. How can she find happiness? Should she leave the area? Should she demolish the hotel and build on the property? Will she ever forgive those she feels wronged her? So many decisions to ponder.
This is a wonderful book. It's got such detail, that I felt as though I was walking along the sound with Mignon and Galahad at times. I could feel Mignon's grief and anguish as she wants to enjoy her days, but just cannot.
I love all of Grace Greene's novels,and I am quite sure this is definitely my new favorite of hers. Thank you Grace for writing this touching story and allowing me to read and provide my own review.
Grace Greene's books always evoke intense emotional responses from her readers. Her writing style is slow paced which ideally fits her stories and allows for deep character development. Her stories are designed to develop empathy with her characters in their struggles, and to then to help one deal with their own struggles or the struggles of others within their sphere of influence. Emerald Heart is a story of grief, grief that has lingered on for too long. It is a story about moving forward past the many obstacles and hurdles that stand in the way. It is a story that will likely hit close to home to those of a certain age, those who realize that type of grief is getting closer to being their own reality, as well as those who have, at whatever age, already encountered the loss of one or more of those dearest to their heart. Grace Greene does not shy away from the tough stuff, nor does she leave us there. She shines a light on possibilities, on healthy choices, and on realizing that memories are rooted in our hearts not places or things.
I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of this book from the author without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.
Grace Greene's books always evoke intense emotional responses from her readers. Her writing style is slow paced which ideally fits her stories and allows for deep character development. Her stories are designed to develop empathy with her characters in their struggles, and to then to help one deal with their own struggles or the struggles of others within their sphere of influence. Emerald Heart is a story of grief, grief that has lingered on for too long. It is a story about moving forward past the many obstacles and hurdles that stand in the way. It is a story that will likely hit close to home to those of a certain age, those who realize that type of grief is getting closer to being their own reality, as well as those who have, at whatever age, already encountered the loss of one or more of those dearest to their heart. Grace Greene does not shy away from the tough stuff, nor does she leave us there. She shines a light on possibilities, on healthy choices, and on realizing that memories are rooted in our hearts not places or things.
I am grateful to have received a complimentary copy of this book from the author without obligation. All opinions expressed here are my own.
I want to thank Grace Green, author and Goodreads First Reads Giveaway for the eBook Kindle copy of Emerald Heart: An Emerald Isle, NC Novel that I won in the Givaway.
Emerald Heart wasn't what I expected. It was set in a beautiful setting on the Outer Banks of North Carolina and the descriptions were detailed and easy to picture. Mingon King, the main character was dealing with grief and stuck emotionally and had been for two years since she lost her husband.
Her ups and downs were the main topic of the story and having lost family in recent years, it seemed to be very similar to my experience and I suspect the experiences of the author. I loved the Emerald Heart Hotel decor around King Arthur by her late husband Arthur King. The story of Mingon's grief is the driving theme of the plot and handled with kindness and expresses deep emotions. Mingon's supporting friends and her trip to honor her husband's dreams added a new look at how different people handle grief, which is a personal journey for each of us.
“Whatever you decide to do, do it for you, and do it like you mean it.” Definitely words to live by!
What a beautifully written book We get to meet Mignon, a widow, who is living in a closed up hotel attached to her house. It was her late husband’s dream to run this hotel, and they did so for years, since his death, she has not only closed up the hotel, she has closed up her life, she has become a recluse and lives very secluded life Now she has had her share of losses, and it took me a while to really warm up to her, but what a beautifully written character
She’s at a crossroads with her life I think she’s been sad so long she doesn’t know how to be happy… Does she sell, does she sell all of it part of it and if she does what does she do with her life?
Written in this authors beautiful style. This is a beautiful story you won’t want to miss
Is anything possible? Mignon Knight is trying to figure out her own path to move forward . She has lost her daughter and recently her husband. She is still living on the estate where the Emerald Heart Hotel and her adjacent home are with her dog Galahad. So many memories for her to relive daily, good and sad. Does she sell and take the chance a new owner will destroy the hotel? What if she sells and someone updates the hotel? Should Mignon sell? Can she trust her relatives and friends? A story of hope, healing, learning to trust again after so much time. The descriptions of the woods had me taking walks with Mignon and Galahad.
I received an ARC prior to publication and decided to voluntarily review it.
This book had me torn between compassion and annoyance. Mignon, is stuck in -what is called- complicated grieving. On one hand, I am full of compassion for her, on the other hand I don’t understand why she does not seek help, but prefers to live in the past as if trying to live her life going forward could negate all her love and grief over the losses, she experienced. And then her hateful demeanor towards Jeannette, as much as I understand, just annoyed me so much. There are two sides to everything, so why does she not listen to Jeanette’s side, even if only in a shouting match? This is what I love so much about Grace Greene’s book, you feel what the characters are going through. However, in the end it all comes together. Highly recommended!
Rooted by grief, Mignon Knight must determine her next steps in life. Grace Green’s descriptive writing brings the setting, the Emerald Heart Hotel, to life. As Mignon grapples with her decision, she is faced with the return of an estranged family member, a new neighbor and advice from a well meaning friend. As the story develops Mignon must find the inner strength to pave her own path. This book offers thoughtful insights about working through life’s traumatic moments and finding peace.
I really enjoyed reading this book! It had a wonderful story. It was set in North Carolina and the area was wonderfully described. I would very much like for Grace Greene to write a story about Mignon King after her vacation. I would highly recommend this book. This is my honest review of Emerald Heart.
A book well written and a story well told. Touching and memorable Emerald Isle, NC will remain with me for the long haul. Take the time and enjoy this book, highly Recommended 5 star read.
Many thanks to the sponsors of the book’s goodreads giveaway. Without their generous provision of a copy of this book I would not have experienced the heartfelt tale I just completed.
A captivating story that pulls at the heart and soul. Grief has no timeline. Forgiveness can be found at any time and through various ways. In this story of loss, grief, family, and love, I found myself right there with each character. This is one I will read again. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.
5 stars for Emerald Heart. Mignon King is mired deeply in despair and grief, seeing no way out of her current circumstances. It takes time, friends and a strong will to move forward. A well written novel set in a beautiful setting. Get the nannies out, you'll need them.
This is a very emotional story. The characters are great , loyal and concerned. A raw emotional of several losses cause a spiral of closing off the world and simply not really enjoying life. Faced with the losses there's only moving forward and let the healing begin. I enjoyed this book very much. Happy reading
Grace Greene is one of my favorite authors but this book is not something I would want to read again. It took too long to get Mignon to discover her self worth. Story didn’t seem credible and moved at a snail’s pace. Too much pitifulness and not enough redemption and moving forward. I really didn’t like this book.
I eagerly await each of Grace Greene’s releases. Emerald Heart is just one more reason Ms. Greene is one of my favorite authors. Well done and I look forward to your next book!
My husband passed away two years ago. Although we all go through our grief differently in this situation the questions, hurt, and struggle to find your place in the world again are all the same. Grace Greene has, with Mignon, done a beautiful job of painting that picture for us.