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Escape to Darling Cove #1-4
Bei Sonnenaufgang in Darling Cove
Ein Cottage zum Verlieben!
Eve hat schon immer auf Ennisfarne gelebt, einer idyllischen Insel direkt vor der Küste von Northumberland, die nur bei Ebbe zugänglich ist. Dort betreibt sie eine Bar mit Blick auf Darling Cove, einen himmlischen hufeisenförmigen Strand, der nach ihren seefahrenden Vorfahren benannt ist. Als plötzlich der gutaussehende Logan auf der Insel ankommt und eines ihrer Cottages mietet, ist Eve zunächst skeptisch. Denn die beiden haben nicht den besten Start und streiten sich wegen Eves stürmischem Labrador. Doch je mehr Zeit vergeht, desto näher kommt sie ihrem mysteriösen Untermieter. Trotzdem scheint Logan immer ein Geheimnis zu umgeben …
Eve hat schon immer auf Ennisfarne gelebt, einer idyllischen Insel direkt vor der Küste von Northumberland, die nur bei Ebbe zugänglich ist. Dort betreibt sie eine Bar mit Blick auf Darling Cove, einen himmlischen hufeisenförmigen Strand, der nach ihren seefahrenden Vorfahren benannt ist. Als plötzlich der gutaussehende Logan auf der Insel ankommt und eines ihrer Cottages mietet, ist Eve zunächst skeptisch. Denn die beiden haben nicht den besten Start und streiten sich wegen Eves stürmischem Labrador. Doch je mehr Zeit vergeht, desto näher kommt sie ihrem mysteriösen Untermieter. Trotzdem scheint Logan immer ein Geheimnis zu umgeben …
385 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 27, 2024
27 people are currently reading
230 people want to read
About the author
Holly Hepburn
97 books405 followersI’ve wanted to write books for adults for as long as I can remember but I was too scared to try. One day I decided to be brave and dipped a toe into the bubble bath of romantic comedy with my first novella, Cupidity, and I’ve never looked back. I often try to be funny to be funny, except for when faced with traffic wardens and border control staff. My favourite thing is making people smile.
I’ve tried many jobs over the years, from barmaid to market researcher and I even had a brief flirtation with modelling. These days I am mostly found writing.
I live near London with my grey tabby cat, Portia. We both have an unhealthy obsession with Marmite.
I’ve tried many jobs over the years, from barmaid to market researcher and I even had a brief flirtation with modelling. These days I am mostly found writing.
I live near London with my grey tabby cat, Portia. We both have an unhealthy obsession with Marmite.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
February 14, 2023
Split into four parts in usual Holly Hepburn. She has not disappointed me so far and again excels in being a go to author.
This time the main setting is on island life on Ennisfarne. Logan from London grows very fond of the way of life on the island. His heart never left once arriving. When on the island he feels much more human.
Eve an islander does not get off to the best of starys with Logan. Due to her loveable but tearaway dog. They do not hit it off until both discover the hidden depths of each other.
Logan is in deep with his ex girlfriend and the paparazzi. They should not underestimate the power force of the island with one of their own (temporary or permanently). I do not buy him with anyone but Eve who helped him from the start to become more human just like his friend Nick does too. He is a great addition to the story it is like he has been there from the start. You like him instantly.
4 stars
This time the main setting is on island life on Ennisfarne. Logan from London grows very fond of the way of life on the island. His heart never left once arriving. When on the island he feels much more human.
Eve an islander does not get off to the best of starys with Logan. Due to her loveable but tearaway dog. They do not hit it off until both discover the hidden depths of each other.
Logan is in deep with his ex girlfriend and the paparazzi. They should not underestimate the power force of the island with one of their own (temporary or permanently). I do not buy him with anyone but Eve who helped him from the start to become more human just like his friend Nick does too. He is a great addition to the story it is like he has been there from the start. You like him instantly.
4 stars
February 11, 2025
Ich lese die Romance-Geschichten von Holly Hepburn unglaublich gerne, "Große Liebe im kleinen Trödelladen" war eines meiner Jahreshighlights 2024. Darum waren meine Vorfreunde und Erwartungen an den neuen Roman doch recht groß. "Bei Sonnenaufgang in Darling Cove" erinnert mich an "Das kleine Cottage am Strand", die Ausgangslage und die Stimmung sind irgendwie sehr ähnlich. Logan und Eve sind sehr sympathische und wirken durchweg glaubwürdig. Ich finde es sehr schön, dass die Geschichte nicht auf dummen Missverständnissen und unrealistischen Problemen beruht (was mich bei Romance sonst immer extrem stört). Der Fokus liegt auf den Personen und ihrer langsamen Entwicklung. Trotzdem konnte ich nicht ganz so mitfühlen, weil besonders Eve sehr spröde war. Die Beziehung der beiden hat mich aber nicht ganz abgeholt, die Romantik war da kaum vorhanden und erst am Ende auf den letzten Seiten kamen ein paar Gefühle. Die Geschichte, die Insel und alles drumherum war aber sehr schön.
January 19, 2023
I really enjoy Holly Hepburn’s books and I was really looking forward to reading her latest – Escape to Darling Cove. It also has a beautiful cover! This one is set in Northumberland, an area I have visited many times, so that added to the attraction of reading it too. I liked that Eve Darling is related here to the famous Grace Darling, as I’ve been to both the museum and her gravestone, as mentioned in the book. This meant I could easily picture the area, even though Ennisfarne itself is fictional.
Escape to Darling Cove tells the story of Eve and Logan and we read chapters from both their viewpoints. Eve Darling is 33 and has always lived on the island of Ennisfarne, whereas famous photographer Logan Silk comes to the island to escape, booking to stay at Dune Cottage for three months. The two of them meet unceremoniously as Eve’s dog Huxley runs into Logan, knocking him over and breaking his camera lens.
Eve runs Darling Cove (the café, bar and Dune Cottage) with her brother Aiden (29). Her best friend is Selina Heron, who she has known since being a young child.
There’s a great community in this book and I enjoyed seeing this and meeting the other characters, especially Freda, who runs the local shop with its surprising array of things to buy.
The story is written really well. Obstacles come up in the romance, as you would expect, but it all feels very natural and authentic. I loved how even though Logan was handsome and successful, it was his flaws that Eve notices first – how he says what he’s thinking, coming across as rather thoughtless and sexist at first, until she gets to know him. I liked how she had to know him before realising she liked him.
I have read Holly Hepburn’s books before and I really enjoy them. They are published as novellas first, then as one single volume and here too, the book is split into four parts of around a hundred pages per part.
My only one tiny criticism is that in places, I found the book a bit descriptive and felt the scenery was brought to life in a few more lines than it needed – but this is my personal taste and did not detract at all from what is a fabulous novel.
I loved all the characters in the book (except for Suki) and loved how all the villagers were really believable, even though they weren’t as important to the story as the main cast. Huxley the dog is a real star too! Overall this is another triumph for Holly Hepburn and I look forward to reading more of her books in the future.
9 out of 10
Escape to Darling Cove tells the story of Eve and Logan and we read chapters from both their viewpoints. Eve Darling is 33 and has always lived on the island of Ennisfarne, whereas famous photographer Logan Silk comes to the island to escape, booking to stay at Dune Cottage for three months. The two of them meet unceremoniously as Eve’s dog Huxley runs into Logan, knocking him over and breaking his camera lens.
Eve runs Darling Cove (the café, bar and Dune Cottage) with her brother Aiden (29). Her best friend is Selina Heron, who she has known since being a young child.
There’s a great community in this book and I enjoyed seeing this and meeting the other characters, especially Freda, who runs the local shop with its surprising array of things to buy.
The story is written really well. Obstacles come up in the romance, as you would expect, but it all feels very natural and authentic. I loved how even though Logan was handsome and successful, it was his flaws that Eve notices first – how he says what he’s thinking, coming across as rather thoughtless and sexist at first, until she gets to know him. I liked how she had to know him before realising she liked him.
I have read Holly Hepburn’s books before and I really enjoy them. They are published as novellas first, then as one single volume and here too, the book is split into four parts of around a hundred pages per part.
My only one tiny criticism is that in places, I found the book a bit descriptive and felt the scenery was brought to life in a few more lines than it needed – but this is my personal taste and did not detract at all from what is a fabulous novel.
I loved all the characters in the book (except for Suki) and loved how all the villagers were really believable, even though they weren’t as important to the story as the main cast. Huxley the dog is a real star too! Overall this is another triumph for Holly Hepburn and I look forward to reading more of her books in the future.
9 out of 10
November 18, 2023
Because Holly's books are written episodically (by which I mean, this was released as four seperate volumes before being compliled into one for the paperback) there's always a very slightly odd sensation at the start of each section where the previous section is summarised. This is done really nicely - in fact I would recommend anyone writing a series who needs to do this to see how she manages it - but I always forget and then wonder what's going on. I mention this really so that maybe I won't be surprised next time.
Anyway, nothing spectacular or unexpected happens in this but it's so nice. Just a really nice book full of well-rounded characters in a beautiful setting. Ennisfarne is a lovely and evocative place, an imagined sister island for Lindisfarne, with wild Northumbrian scenery and the fun of a causeway to cut the islanders off from the mainland for twelve hours at a time.
Annoyingly handsome celeb photographer Logan Silk takes a time out from shooting (photographically) models and film stars etc. to clear his head. He chooses an island off the coast of Northumberland, intending to revel in the emptiness and not talk to anyone, forgetting of course that in the countryside everyone knows exactly what you're doing and is keen to chat. He does find it quite relaxing though. Eve Darling, who owns the holiday cottage he's staying in, finds him a bit irritating to begin with. And so on.
The book has a very pleasant cosy feeling and the descriptions of the island are delightful.
Anyway, nothing spectacular or unexpected happens in this but it's so nice. Just a really nice book full of well-rounded characters in a beautiful setting. Ennisfarne is a lovely and evocative place, an imagined sister island for Lindisfarne, with wild Northumbrian scenery and the fun of a causeway to cut the islanders off from the mainland for twelve hours at a time.
Annoyingly handsome celeb photographer Logan Silk takes a time out from shooting (photographically) models and film stars etc. to clear his head. He chooses an island off the coast of Northumberland, intending to revel in the emptiness and not talk to anyone, forgetting of course that in the countryside everyone knows exactly what you're doing and is keen to chat. He does find it quite relaxing though. Eve Darling, who owns the holiday cottage he's staying in, finds him a bit irritating to begin with. And so on.
The book has a very pleasant cosy feeling and the descriptions of the island are delightful.
January 11, 2023
Escape to Darling Cove is set on a fictional island of the Northumberland coast although once you’ve read it you may feel it’s as a real a place as Lindisfarne. Holly Hepburn has a knack for creating fabulous settings and the island of Ennisfarne was no exception. After I’d read it, I felt as if I knew the beach, the cove and the rock formations quite well. To be honest, just the lovely village shop with its fab deli would sell it to me as a perfect get away from it all holiday destination. Having read the first part of this book last year, I booked a few days holiday in Northumberland just so I could visit Lindisfarne!
As well as the main protagonists of Eve and Logan, there are some great minor characters such as Freda who runs The Nook, the village shop, and knows everything that’s going on and George, one of the island’s fisherman who you wouldn’t want to get too close to! Eve’s exuberant chocolate lab Huxley is one of the stars of the show and it made me smile that the book is dedicated to ‘anyone whose dog has ever rolled in something yucky’! That pretty much sums up Huxley.
Eve and Logan get off to a bad start when Huxley knocks him flying on the beach and he breaks an expensive camera. The dynamic between Logan and Eve is fun to read about as they really rub each other up the wrong way and misunderstand each other. However, when what Logan is running from explodes into the public domain, he realises that he very much needs the support of this small island community. And he gets it.
It was lovely to read about the truce and blossoming friendship developing between Eve and Logan, This was a slow burn romance and there were definitely some challenges along the way for them. With Eve being very much a home-bird and Logan and internationally renowned fashion photographer, it seemed that their lifestyles were very incompatible.
What I enjoyed most about the book was the strong sense of community. I always enjoy books set in villages or islands, with that community knowing everything about each other but also being there for one another. Ennisfarne had a great sense of community spirit and Logan soon found that even as a temporary resident, he was considered one of them. A lovely gentle read about the positives of belonging to a small community and finding that the things that make you happy in life aren’t always what or where you expect.
As well as the main protagonists of Eve and Logan, there are some great minor characters such as Freda who runs The Nook, the village shop, and knows everything that’s going on and George, one of the island’s fisherman who you wouldn’t want to get too close to! Eve’s exuberant chocolate lab Huxley is one of the stars of the show and it made me smile that the book is dedicated to ‘anyone whose dog has ever rolled in something yucky’! That pretty much sums up Huxley.
Eve and Logan get off to a bad start when Huxley knocks him flying on the beach and he breaks an expensive camera. The dynamic between Logan and Eve is fun to read about as they really rub each other up the wrong way and misunderstand each other. However, when what Logan is running from explodes into the public domain, he realises that he very much needs the support of this small island community. And he gets it.
It was lovely to read about the truce and blossoming friendship developing between Eve and Logan, This was a slow burn romance and there were definitely some challenges along the way for them. With Eve being very much a home-bird and Logan and internationally renowned fashion photographer, it seemed that their lifestyles were very incompatible.
What I enjoyed most about the book was the strong sense of community. I always enjoy books set in villages or islands, with that community knowing everything about each other but also being there for one another. Ennisfarne had a great sense of community spirit and Logan soon found that even as a temporary resident, he was considered one of them. A lovely gentle read about the positives of belonging to a small community and finding that the things that make you happy in life aren’t always what or where you expect.
January 14, 2023
Escape To Darling Cove was just the tonic I needed after a tough week.
The setting is absolutely idyllic and I want to visit, like now! Even the bad weather sounded delightful. I love the idea of such a close-knit community, where everyone helps each other.
I loved the cast of characters too! Logan, Eve, Huxley, Aiden, Selena, Freda, and especially Freda's niece Tish (named after ME!) were all fab and fun to get acquainted with. I loved the chemistry between certain pairs and the joy that Huxley brought, with his boundless lab energy!
This book is absolutely lovely and the perfect way to escape, just as the title says!
The setting is absolutely idyllic and I want to visit, like now! Even the bad weather sounded delightful. I love the idea of such a close-knit community, where everyone helps each other.
I loved the cast of characters too! Logan, Eve, Huxley, Aiden, Selena, Freda, and especially Freda's niece Tish (named after ME!) were all fab and fun to get acquainted with. I loved the chemistry between certain pairs and the joy that Huxley brought, with his boundless lab energy!
This book is absolutely lovely and the perfect way to escape, just as the title says!
March 28, 2025
Rezension
Buchname: Bei Sonnenaufgang in Darling Cove
Autor: Holly Hepburn
Seiten: 480 (Print)
Fromat: als Print und Ebook erhältlich
Verlag: Penguin Verlag; Deutsche Erstausgabe Edition (29. Januar 2025)
Sterne: 4
Cover:
Das Cover ist richtig schön gestaltet worden. Der Buchtitel steht in dunklen bzw lilafarbenen Buchstaben im oberen/mittleren Bereich. Man kann ein Haus und den Hof auf dem Cover erkennen.. .. Auf dem ersten Blick ist das schon mal sehr ansprechend.
Klappentext: (aus Amazon übernommen)
Ein Cottage zum Verlieben!
Eve hat schon immer auf Ennisfarne gelebt, einer idyllischen Insel direkt vor der Küste von Northumberland, die nur bei Ebbe zugänglich ist. Dort betreibt sie eine Bar mit Blick auf Darling Cove, einen himmlischen hufeisenförmigen Strand, der nach ihren seefahrenden Vorfahren benannt ist. Als plötzlich der gutaussehende Logan auf der Insel ankommt und eines ihrer Cottages mietet, ist Eve zunächst skeptisch. Denn die beiden haben nicht den besten Start und streiten sich wegen Eves stürmischem Labrador. Doch je mehr Zeit vergeht, desto näher kommt sie ihrem mysteriösen Untermieter. Trotzdem scheint Logan immer ein Geheimnis zu umgeben …
Schreibstil:
Der Schreibstil der Autorin ist total flüssig, liest sich super und ist sehr leicht verständlich.
Charaktere:
Die Hauptprotagonistin ist Eve
Der Hauptprotagonist ist Logan
Ich fande alle Charaktere von Anfang an total sympathisch und liebenswert. Des weiteren gibt es noch ein paar andere Charaktere. . Meiner Meinung nach sind alle Charakter sehr gelungen und haben einen sehr guten Platz im Buch bekommen.
Meinung:
!!!! Achtung !!! Könnte Spoiler erhalten!!!
Mir hat „Bei Sonnenaufgang in Darling Cove“ von Holly Hepburn richtig gut gefallen. In diesem Buch lernen wir Eve und Logan kennen. Ich persönlich habe beide Hauptprotagonisten in mein Herz geschlossen. Eve lebt schon seit ihrer Geburt auf der idyllischen Insel Ennisfarne. Das besondere an der Insel ist, dass man sie nur bei Ebbe betreten kann. Dort hat sie eine Bar, mit Blick auf Darling Cove. Das ist der Strandabschnitt. Sie betreibt auch ein paar Cottage und hat einen sehr stürmischen aber tollen Labrador. Als auf einmal Logen vor einer ihrer Cottage steht, ist das Chaos perfekt. So viel zum Inhalt. Ich persönlich mochte das Buch total gerne. Klar es war schon vorhersehbar, aber welches Buch ist das in dem Genre nicht. Ich fande beide Hauptprotagonisten Eve und Logan total sympathisch und authentisch dargestellt. Ich wurde gut unterhalten beim Lesen und das Setting hat bei mir eine Wohlfühlatmosphäre und Entspannung geschaffen. Es war ein locker leichtes Buch für einen gemütlichen Leseabend bzw Nacht. Ich hatte jede Menge schöne Lesestunden mit den beiden. Deshalb bekommt „Bei Sonnenaufgang in Darling Cove“ von mir auch verdiente 4 Sterne und eine klare Leseempfehlung. Ich persönlich freue mich auf weitere Bücher von Holly. Ich mag einfach ihre ganze Art und Weise total gerne.
Fazit:
Toller Liebesroman mit einer amüsanten Story, sympathischen Protagonisten und einem sehr süßen Labrador
Buchname: Bei Sonnenaufgang in Darling Cove
Autor: Holly Hepburn
Seiten: 480 (Print)
Fromat: als Print und Ebook erhältlich
Verlag: Penguin Verlag; Deutsche Erstausgabe Edition (29. Januar 2025)
Sterne: 4
Cover:
Das Cover ist richtig schön gestaltet worden. Der Buchtitel steht in dunklen bzw lilafarbenen Buchstaben im oberen/mittleren Bereich. Man kann ein Haus und den Hof auf dem Cover erkennen.. .. Auf dem ersten Blick ist das schon mal sehr ansprechend.
Klappentext: (aus Amazon übernommen)
Ein Cottage zum Verlieben!
Eve hat schon immer auf Ennisfarne gelebt, einer idyllischen Insel direkt vor der Küste von Northumberland, die nur bei Ebbe zugänglich ist. Dort betreibt sie eine Bar mit Blick auf Darling Cove, einen himmlischen hufeisenförmigen Strand, der nach ihren seefahrenden Vorfahren benannt ist. Als plötzlich der gutaussehende Logan auf der Insel ankommt und eines ihrer Cottages mietet, ist Eve zunächst skeptisch. Denn die beiden haben nicht den besten Start und streiten sich wegen Eves stürmischem Labrador. Doch je mehr Zeit vergeht, desto näher kommt sie ihrem mysteriösen Untermieter. Trotzdem scheint Logan immer ein Geheimnis zu umgeben …
Schreibstil:
Der Schreibstil der Autorin ist total flüssig, liest sich super und ist sehr leicht verständlich.
Charaktere:
Die Hauptprotagonistin ist Eve
Der Hauptprotagonist ist Logan
Ich fande alle Charaktere von Anfang an total sympathisch und liebenswert. Des weiteren gibt es noch ein paar andere Charaktere. . Meiner Meinung nach sind alle Charakter sehr gelungen und haben einen sehr guten Platz im Buch bekommen.
Meinung:
!!!! Achtung !!! Könnte Spoiler erhalten!!!
Mir hat „Bei Sonnenaufgang in Darling Cove“ von Holly Hepburn richtig gut gefallen. In diesem Buch lernen wir Eve und Logan kennen. Ich persönlich habe beide Hauptprotagonisten in mein Herz geschlossen. Eve lebt schon seit ihrer Geburt auf der idyllischen Insel Ennisfarne. Das besondere an der Insel ist, dass man sie nur bei Ebbe betreten kann. Dort hat sie eine Bar, mit Blick auf Darling Cove. Das ist der Strandabschnitt. Sie betreibt auch ein paar Cottage und hat einen sehr stürmischen aber tollen Labrador. Als auf einmal Logen vor einer ihrer Cottage steht, ist das Chaos perfekt. So viel zum Inhalt. Ich persönlich mochte das Buch total gerne. Klar es war schon vorhersehbar, aber welches Buch ist das in dem Genre nicht. Ich fande beide Hauptprotagonisten Eve und Logan total sympathisch und authentisch dargestellt. Ich wurde gut unterhalten beim Lesen und das Setting hat bei mir eine Wohlfühlatmosphäre und Entspannung geschaffen. Es war ein locker leichtes Buch für einen gemütlichen Leseabend bzw Nacht. Ich hatte jede Menge schöne Lesestunden mit den beiden. Deshalb bekommt „Bei Sonnenaufgang in Darling Cove“ von mir auch verdiente 4 Sterne und eine klare Leseempfehlung. Ich persönlich freue mich auf weitere Bücher von Holly. Ich mag einfach ihre ganze Art und Weise total gerne.
Fazit:
Toller Liebesroman mit einer amüsanten Story, sympathischen Protagonisten und einem sehr süßen Labrador
January 6, 2023
Eve runs a bar overlooking Darling Cover in Ennisfarne, where she has lived all her life. Logan, a famous photographer is hoping to lie low in Ennisfarne after a very public break up. It transpires that the cottage he is renting in Ennisfarne is owned by none other than Eve. Eve and Logan’s first encounter isn’t ideal but is certainly memorable when Huxley, Eve’s dog knocks Logan off his feet. However the more Eve and Logan get to know each other their opinion of the other changes but Logan’s stay on the island is only temporary so what if they start something they won’t be able to finish.
They say you should never judge a book by its cover but when I saw this book I did exactly that because as soon as I saw it it made me smile and filled me with warmth. The cover reminded me of Durdle Door in Dorset and brought back a lot of happy memories for me.
Whilst reading this book, I was ready to pack my bags and move to Ennisfarne because it sounded like such a magical place. I liked the idea that there is a path from the mainland to Ennisfarne that is only accessible when the tide is low. So people have to be very careful to plan their visit carefully based on the tide. I really enjoyed the storyline and it was the perfect read to escape into on a winters evening. I loved the characters in the book. My initial thoughts when Logan and Eve interacted were that Logan had grumpy sunshine written all over him. His first meeting with Eve wasn’t ideal because when Huxley knocks him over he inadvertently breaks Logan’s camera. So Eve and Logan’s first impression of each other isn’t great until Logan learns that it’s Eve’s cottage he is renting. Initially Logan is quite aloof and cool with Eve. When there is an issue with the tap at the cottage he assumes she can’t fix it and dismisses her but then later realises that he has judged Eve without actually knowing her. Eve is a very likeable character and even when Logan is very dismissive of her and undermines her capabilities she keeps her cool. However Eve never judges Logan even when his face is all over the newspaper labelling him a playboy cheat. Rather she gives him the benefit of the doubt, tells others that they shouldn’t judge him and is kind to him. The more Eve and Logan spend together the more they realise that they have a lot in common but also start seeing another side to the other. They quickly warm to each other. Eve is a very strong character but when she realises that she likes Logan more than a friend she thinks the only way to avoid her feelings is to spend as little time with him as possible as she knows his stay is only temporary.
One of my favourite scenes from the book was when Eve and Logan went diving and interacted with the seals. The scene was so descriptive and so well written that I felt like I was with them interacting with sea life and seeing exactly what they were seeing.
In addition to romance, community is one of the biggest themes in the book. I loved the sense of community in this book. When Logan appears in the newspaper and with tourist season starting the community band together to protect him and do their best to stop a journalist finding him. Although Logan is a visitor to the island within a short period of time the community accept him as one of their own. That community spirit definitely rubs off on to Logan who steps in as an emergency wedding photographer but also creates an exhibition of pictures he’s taken of the local scenery and the locals themselves as a tribute to the island and the people as a way of thanking them for embracing him.
A book about community and finding love when you least expect it.
They say you should never judge a book by its cover but when I saw this book I did exactly that because as soon as I saw it it made me smile and filled me with warmth. The cover reminded me of Durdle Door in Dorset and brought back a lot of happy memories for me.
Whilst reading this book, I was ready to pack my bags and move to Ennisfarne because it sounded like such a magical place. I liked the idea that there is a path from the mainland to Ennisfarne that is only accessible when the tide is low. So people have to be very careful to plan their visit carefully based on the tide. I really enjoyed the storyline and it was the perfect read to escape into on a winters evening. I loved the characters in the book. My initial thoughts when Logan and Eve interacted were that Logan had grumpy sunshine written all over him. His first meeting with Eve wasn’t ideal because when Huxley knocks him over he inadvertently breaks Logan’s camera. So Eve and Logan’s first impression of each other isn’t great until Logan learns that it’s Eve’s cottage he is renting. Initially Logan is quite aloof and cool with Eve. When there is an issue with the tap at the cottage he assumes she can’t fix it and dismisses her but then later realises that he has judged Eve without actually knowing her. Eve is a very likeable character and even when Logan is very dismissive of her and undermines her capabilities she keeps her cool. However Eve never judges Logan even when his face is all over the newspaper labelling him a playboy cheat. Rather she gives him the benefit of the doubt, tells others that they shouldn’t judge him and is kind to him. The more Eve and Logan spend together the more they realise that they have a lot in common but also start seeing another side to the other. They quickly warm to each other. Eve is a very strong character but when she realises that she likes Logan more than a friend she thinks the only way to avoid her feelings is to spend as little time with him as possible as she knows his stay is only temporary.
One of my favourite scenes from the book was when Eve and Logan went diving and interacted with the seals. The scene was so descriptive and so well written that I felt like I was with them interacting with sea life and seeing exactly what they were seeing.
In addition to romance, community is one of the biggest themes in the book. I loved the sense of community in this book. When Logan appears in the newspaper and with tourist season starting the community band together to protect him and do their best to stop a journalist finding him. Although Logan is a visitor to the island within a short period of time the community accept him as one of their own. That community spirit definitely rubs off on to Logan who steps in as an emergency wedding photographer but also creates an exhibition of pictures he’s taken of the local scenery and the locals themselves as a tribute to the island and the people as a way of thanking them for embracing him.
A book about community and finding love when you least expect it.
January 5, 2023
This review was originally posted on Star Crossed Reviews I received this book for free for a Blog Tour in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.
Escape to Darling Cove. I can’t think of a better title for this book. I certainly wanted to escape to Ennisfarne and Darling Cove. Holly writes such wonderful and detailed settings they almost become another character. I loved the island’s community spirit and how they quickly adopted Logan as one of their own.Eve Darling is a no-nonsense woman which is something I can wholeheartedly get behind. She is practical and extremely smart. Logan constantly underestimates Eve throughout the book. I did like the shock he got every time Eve outsmarted him.Logan Silk is a man that it’s so darn easy to fall for. Holly writes men that are easy to swoon for and Logan is no exception. He starts of a little grumpy but as he spends more time on the island and unwinds, he becomes the person he really is and not the grumpy man his lift has made him. Logan’s photos sound absolutely amazing from Holly’s descriptions, and I wish there was a way to actually see these. I did like the mention of some of Hollys other characters from past books. It was a great nod to the other books she has written and nice to see how those characters are getting on. I would dearly love for Nick to have his own story someday.I will miss Ennisfarne and their inhabitants but I can’t wait to see what Holly brings us next.Thank you to SJ and the Books and the City team for my copy of this book and for letting me take part in this tour.
Escape to Darling Cove. I can’t think of a better title for this book. I certainly wanted to escape to Ennisfarne and Darling Cove. Holly writes such wonderful and detailed settings they almost become another character. I loved the island’s community spirit and how they quickly adopted Logan as one of their own.Eve Darling is a no-nonsense woman which is something I can wholeheartedly get behind. She is practical and extremely smart. Logan constantly underestimates Eve throughout the book. I did like the shock he got every time Eve outsmarted him.Logan Silk is a man that it’s so darn easy to fall for. Holly writes men that are easy to swoon for and Logan is no exception. He starts of a little grumpy but as he spends more time on the island and unwinds, he becomes the person he really is and not the grumpy man his lift has made him. Logan’s photos sound absolutely amazing from Holly’s descriptions, and I wish there was a way to actually see these. I did like the mention of some of Hollys other characters from past books. It was a great nod to the other books she has written and nice to see how those characters are getting on. I would dearly love for Nick to have his own story someday.I will miss Ennisfarne and their inhabitants but I can’t wait to see what Holly brings us next.Thank you to SJ and the Books and the City team for my copy of this book and for letting me take part in this tour.
January 11, 2023
What a start to 2023 book releases! Holly Hepburn has kicked us off with a brilliant start with her new novel Escape to Darling Cove which is full of likeable characters with new beginnings and a comforting uplifting feel.
The setting of Ennisfarne is truly idyllic and sounds like a perfect tranquil place to recharge your batteries whilst discovering lots of historical elements too and wrap that up in the strongest sense of community spirit and you are in safe hands as one of our main characters Logan found out.
The chapters alternate between Logan who has burnt out and needs time away to recharge and relook at his life and career out of the limelight and then we have the loveable strong dependant Eve who is a local who keeps Ennisfarne working with new ideas and events to keep the tourists coming. There is nothing that Eve can’t turn her hand to and she was admirable and no-nonsense taking but also had the biggest heart of gold to go with it.
Ok so the love story was predictable but that didn’t matter one ounce because both of the characters self-discovery was enjoyable to watch, they are both incredibly hard working and passionate people who on one level their lives are polar opposites but on another there are many shared interests and they both struggle to get the work and life balance right.
Holly Hepburn has such a beautiful writing style that even on the gloomiest days her writing brings brightness and joy that changes my mood instantly. I loved my visit to Ennisfarne and enjoyed meeting Eve and Logan too so this is definitely one I recommend reading to start your new year reading off on a high.
The setting of Ennisfarne is truly idyllic and sounds like a perfect tranquil place to recharge your batteries whilst discovering lots of historical elements too and wrap that up in the strongest sense of community spirit and you are in safe hands as one of our main characters Logan found out.
The chapters alternate between Logan who has burnt out and needs time away to recharge and relook at his life and career out of the limelight and then we have the loveable strong dependant Eve who is a local who keeps Ennisfarne working with new ideas and events to keep the tourists coming. There is nothing that Eve can’t turn her hand to and she was admirable and no-nonsense taking but also had the biggest heart of gold to go with it.
Ok so the love story was predictable but that didn’t matter one ounce because both of the characters self-discovery was enjoyable to watch, they are both incredibly hard working and passionate people who on one level their lives are polar opposites but on another there are many shared interests and they both struggle to get the work and life balance right.
Holly Hepburn has such a beautiful writing style that even on the gloomiest days her writing brings brightness and joy that changes my mood instantly. I loved my visit to Ennisfarne and enjoyed meeting Eve and Logan too so this is definitely one I recommend reading to start your new year reading off on a high.
April 28, 2023
I always love Holly Hepburn's books, this one was no exception.
Set on the fictional island of Ennisfarne, just off the coast of Northumberland, which is only accessible via a causeway when the tide is low.
The chapters alternate between the two main characters, Eve Darling who runs a bar overlooking Darling Cove, and Logan Silk, a celebrity photographer, who is looking to escape the limelight after a very public breakup.
The pair don't get off to a great start, after Logan is literally bowled over by Eve's boisterous Labrador Huxley, but as Logan's identity is revealed, Eve realises that there is more to Logan than she first thought.
I loved how the islanders treated Logan like one of their own, pretty much from the word go, closing ranks when a member of the paparazzi come nosing round.
I think my favourite character was Freda, owner of The Nook the village shop, Lord but that woman could sell sand to the arabs, and what she didn't know, probably wasn't worth knowing in the first place !
There are a couple of tiny mentions of a couple of characters from a previous book, but not to worry if you haven't read it, because it's not integral to this particular book.
That said it this is your first foray into this author's books, do take a look at some of her others, I guarantee you will enjoy them all.
Set on the fictional island of Ennisfarne, just off the coast of Northumberland, which is only accessible via a causeway when the tide is low.
The chapters alternate between the two main characters, Eve Darling who runs a bar overlooking Darling Cove, and Logan Silk, a celebrity photographer, who is looking to escape the limelight after a very public breakup.
The pair don't get off to a great start, after Logan is literally bowled over by Eve's boisterous Labrador Huxley, but as Logan's identity is revealed, Eve realises that there is more to Logan than she first thought.
I loved how the islanders treated Logan like one of their own, pretty much from the word go, closing ranks when a member of the paparazzi come nosing round.
I think my favourite character was Freda, owner of The Nook the village shop, Lord but that woman could sell sand to the arabs, and what she didn't know, probably wasn't worth knowing in the first place !
There are a couple of tiny mentions of a couple of characters from a previous book, but not to worry if you haven't read it, because it's not integral to this particular book.
That said it this is your first foray into this author's books, do take a look at some of her others, I guarantee you will enjoy them all.
February 28, 2023
Audiobook version.
A light, enjoyable book. I enjoy all of Holly Hepburns series as she clearly puts a lot of time and effort into the research and scene setting and describes great visuals of beautiful places around the UK, which always makes me feel like I’m traveling there (I’m in Australia). The characters usually have depth and there’s always interesting villagers or pets!! I particularly loved the scenes with Huxley, the 12 month old Labrador, as I’m currently chasing around a 12 month old naughty Lab myself! Very familiar scenarios!!
I always love a dual POV romance from both sides. But sadly I do feel like the chemistry between these two fell shorter than some of Hepburn’s other series. I just didn’t feel like enough time was spent on the build up or their connection. Didn’t make it terrible though, just a bit flat on the romance side if you are like me and look for that spark.
Karen Cass is my favorite audiobook narrator and I go looking for books she’s read. But I have to say I wish she hadn’t used such a strong accent for the main character (Eve) in this one. It was a bit off putting, as if it was forced and a bit clumsy. But that will never stop me enjoying listening to Cass narrate. Shes got a great range, I just didn’t love this character.
A light, enjoyable book. I enjoy all of Holly Hepburns series as she clearly puts a lot of time and effort into the research and scene setting and describes great visuals of beautiful places around the UK, which always makes me feel like I’m traveling there (I’m in Australia). The characters usually have depth and there’s always interesting villagers or pets!! I particularly loved the scenes with Huxley, the 12 month old Labrador, as I’m currently chasing around a 12 month old naughty Lab myself! Very familiar scenarios!!
I always love a dual POV romance from both sides. But sadly I do feel like the chemistry between these two fell shorter than some of Hepburn’s other series. I just didn’t feel like enough time was spent on the build up or their connection. Didn’t make it terrible though, just a bit flat on the romance side if you are like me and look for that spark.
Karen Cass is my favorite audiobook narrator and I go looking for books she’s read. But I have to say I wish she hadn’t used such a strong accent for the main character (Eve) in this one. It was a bit off putting, as if it was forced and a bit clumsy. But that will never stop me enjoying listening to Cass narrate. Shes got a great range, I just didn’t love this character.
January 1, 2023
Ennisfarne is an absolutely gorgeous setting for this latest lovely novel from Holly Hepburn.
It's a quiet tidal island in Northumberland, and as such the whole pace of the book is rather on the slower side. But with it you get to really connect with not just the two main characters, but a large number of the people on the island.
By the end if felt as though I was leaving a community of good friends behind. Easily my favourite characters were Huxley the dog who is a real character and is the one that provides a memorable first meeting between Logan and Eve. And also Freda who runs the village shop and is wonderful at upselling and managing to get all the gossip, while also protecting Logan when his location becomes known.
The initial meetings between Logan and Eve set up a rocky relationship between them, as he accidentally comes across as a chauvinist. However it adds to the colour of the book, and I did enjoy seeing how their "relationship" would progress, and whether they would ever get to together.
This is a gorgeously gentle story that I really enjoyed.
It's a quiet tidal island in Northumberland, and as such the whole pace of the book is rather on the slower side. But with it you get to really connect with not just the two main characters, but a large number of the people on the island.
By the end if felt as though I was leaving a community of good friends behind. Easily my favourite characters were Huxley the dog who is a real character and is the one that provides a memorable first meeting between Logan and Eve. And also Freda who runs the village shop and is wonderful at upselling and managing to get all the gossip, while also protecting Logan when his location becomes known.
The initial meetings between Logan and Eve set up a rocky relationship between them, as he accidentally comes across as a chauvinist. However it adds to the colour of the book, and I did enjoy seeing how their "relationship" would progress, and whether they would ever get to together.
This is a gorgeously gentle story that I really enjoyed.
January 25, 2023
Another great book by Holly Hepburn, this time set on an Island in Northumberland.
A great cast of characters and dogs are included as well as the stunning setting on Ennisfarne.
Holly writes such great stories but what is outstanding is her descriptions of the places and I could imagine Ennisfarne being so real that is could be the smaller sister Island to Lindisfarne.
I don't give spoilers so take it from me the tale is so heart warming with a story not quite going from enemies to lovers, but more along the lines of dislike to heart stopping attraction. That doesn't scan as well though does it?
There are wonderful secondary characters that are so well written that they have come to life too.
I have always enjoyed Holly's books and this one was no exception. I was so happy to see it on the shelves at the shop as I didn't realise she had a new book out. Bonus!
A great cast of characters and dogs are included as well as the stunning setting on Ennisfarne.
Holly writes such great stories but what is outstanding is her descriptions of the places and I could imagine Ennisfarne being so real that is could be the smaller sister Island to Lindisfarne.
I don't give spoilers so take it from me the tale is so heart warming with a story not quite going from enemies to lovers, but more along the lines of dislike to heart stopping attraction. That doesn't scan as well though does it?
There are wonderful secondary characters that are so well written that they have come to life too.
I have always enjoyed Holly's books and this one was no exception. I was so happy to see it on the shelves at the shop as I didn't realise she had a new book out. Bonus!
October 15, 2023
There seems to be a theme to my recent reading and that is escaping to a small town after a life issue and I'm loving every single one. Maybe I should listen to the advice they give.
Eve lives on Ennisfarne, she hasn't wanted to leave and runs the bar as well as all the local events. Logan is burnt out from travelling the world as a photographer and escapes to Ennisfarne for rest and recuperation. Things don't start off on the right foot between the two and so begins a slow burn enemies to lovers, that is more character driven, but still had me captivated.
I really enjoyed spending time in Darling Cove, I loved the characters, the setting and of course Huxley the dog, how could I not?
Holly Hepburn is fast becoming a go to author for me.
Eve lives on Ennisfarne, she hasn't wanted to leave and runs the bar as well as all the local events. Logan is burnt out from travelling the world as a photographer and escapes to Ennisfarne for rest and recuperation. Things don't start off on the right foot between the two and so begins a slow burn enemies to lovers, that is more character driven, but still had me captivated.
I really enjoyed spending time in Darling Cove, I loved the characters, the setting and of course Huxley the dog, how could I not?
Holly Hepburn is fast becoming a go to author for me.
January 19, 2023
I want to start off this review with me acknowledging the fact that this book cover is f*cking beautiful. The only reason why I willingly closed this book was to look at it. And the whole book is just as amazing. I don’t know how Holly Hepburn does it, but her books are always so easy to read. They’re the kind of romances that make me believe that love is real after all.
I loved that in this, there were connections to her book Coming Home to Brightwater Bay (my favourite book by her). I shouldn’t really be surprised by the fact that two books by the same author are in the same universe, but when I realised and made the connection, I fell in love with this book even more.
I loved that in this, there were connections to her book Coming Home to Brightwater Bay (my favourite book by her). I shouldn’t really be surprised by the fact that two books by the same author are in the same universe, but when I realised and made the connection, I fell in love with this book even more.
April 25, 2025
a slow burn cottagecore slice of life written before all these terms existed and were such in vouge. I love books where barely NOTHING happens and still make me want to read. The flattest of plots works only if you give me the richest characters and liveliest scenery. This movie felt like a ghibli movie and that's the best I can describe it. Nice, slow, comforting read. Got it at a blind book sale in Canterbury, was expecting nothing, ended up pretty satisfied. I felt the island and its islanders were real and alive, made me want to visit. Gave me an escape from my ordinary life. What more could one ask from a book?
June 11, 2025
Easy light read and escape from every day life. Set in Ennisfarne an idyllic and picturesque island off the coast of Northumberland full of close knit interesting characters, many who have lived there their whole lives. Something about the way they all look out for each other and the history hooked me. A celebrity photographer books a cottage for three months to rest and recuperate from burnout, to the peace of this village while trying to remain anonymous under a fake name. A delightful read and the quirky individuals who have to live with a tidal causeway that is only accessible at low tide. Recommended read.
January 6, 2023
I really enjoyed this read, I love the sound of Ennisfarne I feel as though I want to go and live there and experience it for myself. The story is about Eve who lives on Ennisfarne, when Logan turns up they don't get off to the best of starts but as time goes on Eve discovers Logan is not the man she thought he was. What is going on with Logan and can Eve help him? The story swept me away and I really enjoyed Holly the author's descriptions of Ennisfarne. I loved the story it was a shame when I had read the last page.
December 24, 2023
A fun romantic read. It a genre I normally don’t delve in to. But I loved exploring a new place (the story takes place in an fictional island off England, thats basically based off the island called Lindisfarne). I do love books set by the ocean, and this gorgeous English isle only accessible when the tide is out is super sweet. And makes me want to visit there! I get a bit of England nostalgia, so that coupled with an easy, low stress read, with no major dramas, trauma, wars, pain etc makes for a nice change. With sweet characters to boot!
February 20, 2024
Rating ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Time 🎧 5H 33M
Tandem read 🎧 + 📖
Another book by Holly Hepburn that my small town heart loves so much! Every book by her makes me want to travel to these places, and this time it's Darling Cove. 🫶🏻
It's also awesome to find out that Grace Darling is a real part of history even though Ennisfarne is fictional, and that is so amazing for me!
And as always, I love all the characters, (well except for Suki, she can piss off lol) and every book, there's an elderly character I always love, this time it's Freda 🫶🏻
On to my next Holly book! Hehe.
Time 🎧 5H 33M
Tandem read 🎧 + 📖
Another book by Holly Hepburn that my small town heart loves so much! Every book by her makes me want to travel to these places, and this time it's Darling Cove. 🫶🏻
It's also awesome to find out that Grace Darling is a real part of history even though Ennisfarne is fictional, and that is so amazing for me!
And as always, I love all the characters, (well except for Suki, she can piss off lol) and every book, there's an elderly character I always love, this time it's Freda 🫶🏻
On to my next Holly book! Hehe.
February 26, 2023
Holly Hepburn has certainly set her scene and takes her reader to the picturesque island of Ennisfarne with its wonderful mix of characters. Her language takes me back to the coast, and I thoroughly enjoyed this aspect of the book. I only wished the main characters' story evolved early on, it dragged a little, and I found myself willing the romance to spark somewhere in the middle of the book, not right at the end. I was literally mentally screaming at Eve along with Selina and Aiden.
September 1, 2023
This was the first Holly Hepburn book and it came at the right time for me. I didn't want to put it down, but I also didn't want it to end! I loved the story and the characters. I immediately started looking to see if Ennisfarne was a real place! I really hope she brings out a follow up book as I'd love to know what happened next!
February 28, 2024
This book is set in Northumberland where I grew up so I loved the descriptions and imagery, very nostalgic for me. I enjoyed the range of characters and could clearly imagine their characters, how they talked to each other, how they looked etc. but the romance between the two main characters felt a bit flat. In summary, I loved the characters and the setting but the romance not so much.
August 25, 2025
As a love story, this book is a boring failure, but as an ensemble cast slice-of-life story about a beautiful remote village, it's pretty enjoyable.
I ended up caring about the unruly dog and the enterprising shop keeper much more than I did for the main characters, but the story was a perfect relaxing entertainment for a lazy Sunday afternoon.
I ended up caring about the unruly dog and the enterprising shop keeper much more than I did for the main characters, but the story was a perfect relaxing entertainment for a lazy Sunday afternoon.
January 23, 2023
Read this whole as opposed to in four parts and did find it a bit repetitive and very drawn out with not a lot really happening. Didn-t really warm to Eve at all felt her to be a bit emotionless and wooden. But the scenery was nice and made me want to go and visit! And the cover is wonderful.
February 12, 2023
I loved the storyline, the wonderful Northumbrian setting and the fabulous characters but for me the ending was far too rushed. I felt a bit cheated if I'm honest and for this reason it's not a five star read for me.
March 22, 2023
Holly has done it again with another incredible feel good read. I loved every page of this book following Eve and Logan’s journey. The setting was almost magical and feel I would love to live on the island of Ennisfarne.
A first class read.
A first class read.
September 12, 2023
Honestly did not disappoint, my favourite book by far. I wish i could wipe my memory and re read this. Highly recommend reading for someone who wants to pretend they’re in a new place for the first time
September 1, 2025
Another cosy, heart-warming escape from Hepburn. We all know how it's gonna end, I just wish they had got together before the last page. Would have been nice to read them as a couple, see how they get on and what they get up to.
A sequel please. lol :)
A sequel please. lol :)
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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