What do you think?
Rate this book
Sandy Island #2
Beneath the Carolina Sun
Three women. One summer. Life-changing choices beneath the Carolina sun.
Kate should have gone home weeks ago. But something about the Lowcountry—the salty breeze, the sprawling oaks, the sense of possibility—keeps her anchored. With her mother still recovering from a stroke and her marriage back in Texas crumbling, Kate must decide whether to return to the life she knows or embrace a bold new path.
Grace is planning her dream wedding, but one secret could unravel everything. The truth she carries could shatter her mother’s fragile recovery—or finally set them both free.
Shelby is thriving as the reservations manager at Magnolia Shores, until her estranged sister shows up uninvited. Old wounds resurface, and the sting of being left out of Grace’s wedding still lingers. Can forgiveness bloom where resentment once grew?
Beneath the Carolina Sun is a story of sisterhood, second chances, and the healing power of home.
Kate should have gone home weeks ago. But something about the Lowcountry—the salty breeze, the sprawling oaks, the sense of possibility—keeps her anchored. With her mother still recovering from a stroke and her marriage back in Texas crumbling, Kate must decide whether to return to the life she knows or embrace a bold new path.
Grace is planning her dream wedding, but one secret could unravel everything. The truth she carries could shatter her mother’s fragile recovery—or finally set them both free.
Shelby is thriving as the reservations manager at Magnolia Shores, until her estranged sister shows up uninvited. Old wounds resurface, and the sting of being left out of Grace’s wedding still lingers. Can forgiveness bloom where resentment once grew?
Beneath the Carolina Sun is a story of sisterhood, second chances, and the healing power of home.
- GenresSummer Reads
236 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 22, 2024
200 people are currently reading
1816 people want to read
About the author
Ashley Farley
56 books2,372 followers⭐️USA Today Bestseller⭐️
Ashley Farley writes heartfelt stories about women navigating life’s challenges. Her characters—mothers, daughters, sisters, and wives—face real-life struggles with resilience and grace. Best known for her Sweeney Sisters series, Ashley’s books have touched the hearts of readers far and wide.
A wife and mother of two young adults, for more than two decades, Ashley has split her time between Richmond and the Northern Neck of Virginia. Yet, a piece of her heart will always belong to the South Carolina Lowcountry, where she draws inspiration from the moss-draped oaks, coastal cuisine, and the warm, welcoming spirit of its people.
Ashley loves to hear from her readers.
Visit her website @ http://www.ashleyfarley.com
Sign up for her newsletter @ https://ashleyfarley.com/newsletter-s...
Follow her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AshleyFarley...
Ashley Farley writes heartfelt stories about women navigating life’s challenges. Her characters—mothers, daughters, sisters, and wives—face real-life struggles with resilience and grace. Best known for her Sweeney Sisters series, Ashley’s books have touched the hearts of readers far and wide.
A wife and mother of two young adults, for more than two decades, Ashley has split her time between Richmond and the Northern Neck of Virginia. Yet, a piece of her heart will always belong to the South Carolina Lowcountry, where she draws inspiration from the moss-draped oaks, coastal cuisine, and the warm, welcoming spirit of its people.
Ashley loves to hear from her readers.
Visit her website @ http://www.ashleyfarley.com
Sign up for her newsletter @ https://ashleyfarley.com/newsletter-s...
Follow her on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/AshleyFarley...
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews
September 23, 2024
Life isn’t easy right now for the women of Magnolia Shores. Kate is dealing with two changes that will impact her life in more ways than she could ever fathom. Daughter, Grace is being her ever present egotistical self and has turned into an over the top Bridezilla and then there is daughter, Shelby. Although she has settled in nicely working at the B&B it doesn’t seem that her love life is settled. Good thing these women have ‘Blossom’ to help guide them along the way. Author, Ashley Farley’s new adventure for these engaging characters is sad, fun and an absolute delight to read. Hoping we don’t wait too long before the next book is here. Thank you Ashley for an early copy. This review is my honest opinion.
October 22, 2024
This is another good book in this series. It’s full of family drama and romance. I can’t say I liked Grace very much at all. I think there needs to be a who’s who list before the start of the book. There’s a lot of characters and it took me awhile to sort out who belonged to who
October 17, 2024
Blossom is back to give us more of her insight and wisdom. She thought her mission was over after she helped Izzy, but it quickly became obvious that she wasn't quite finished at Magnolia Shores.
Shelby is learning and growing as a person. She's maturing and figuring out life, unlike her sister Grace, who is a spoiled brat and the biggest bridezilla, maybe in the history of forever. Grace truly made me physically roll my eyes and made me angry with how she treated her mom, sister, and fiancée. I wanted to give her a piece of my mind more than once. (I can't imagine how Ashley must have felt writing her character).
Kate (Grace and Shelby's mom) came to Magnolia Shores to visit when Izzy's health was on the brink. Izzy is getting better, but Kate is remembering what it's like living in the low country, and she's just not sure she's ready to leave yet. Her marriage has been on the rocks for a few years, and now that both girls are out of the house, she finds very little reason to fight for it. Her life, friends, and job all wait for her in Texas, just not the husband she married. He's distant and makes no time for her. Why would she go back?
Kate's life all but implodes as she deals with marital strife and her bridezilla daughter. She has some tough decisions to make about her future, both living and job wise.
This is a southern family drama at its finest, and I'm here for every bit of it. Anything is possible, especially when you have Blossom in your corner.
Thank you, Ashley, for this fun ARC and trusting me to share my honest thoughts. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Shelby is learning and growing as a person. She's maturing and figuring out life, unlike her sister Grace, who is a spoiled brat and the biggest bridezilla, maybe in the history of forever. Grace truly made me physically roll my eyes and made me angry with how she treated her mom, sister, and fiancée. I wanted to give her a piece of my mind more than once. (I can't imagine how Ashley must have felt writing her character).
Kate (Grace and Shelby's mom) came to Magnolia Shores to visit when Izzy's health was on the brink. Izzy is getting better, but Kate is remembering what it's like living in the low country, and she's just not sure she's ready to leave yet. Her marriage has been on the rocks for a few years, and now that both girls are out of the house, she finds very little reason to fight for it. Her life, friends, and job all wait for her in Texas, just not the husband she married. He's distant and makes no time for her. Why would she go back?
Kate's life all but implodes as she deals with marital strife and her bridezilla daughter. She has some tough decisions to make about her future, both living and job wise.
This is a southern family drama at its finest, and I'm here for every bit of it. Anything is possible, especially when you have Blossom in your corner.
Thank you, Ashley, for this fun ARC and trusting me to share my honest thoughts. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 29, 2024
THE FUTURE & FAMILY DRAMA OF MAGNOLIA SHORES
Beneath the Carolina Sun is the continuing saga of one family's lives, loves, heartbreak, and restoration. Magnolia Shores is a luxurious family home in the Lowcountry of South Carolina. According to the patriarch's will, it is a B&B to be run by family members with a little outside help. Author Ashley Farley has chosen this setting for her Sandy Island Series. This series will grab your attention and keep you invested in the characters.
Magnolia Shores continues to draw Kate to make it her permanent home after her prolonged visit to care for her Mother, Izzy. However, that will require significant changes in her life. Is she ready to face the fact that her marriage is over? She and Rand have not had a close relationship in years. He has put his profession as a cardiologist before her or their daughters. At least, that is what she thought. Kate has always dreamed of having a lighting company of her own. When an opportunity to produce her designs presents itself, she must decide whether to follow her dreams.
Grace is planning the wedding of the century. She is consuming herself with nothing but the wedding and is turning into Bridezilla on steroids. Will the wedding plans doom her relationship with Wyatt, or will she finally be knocked to her senses and realize that her relationship is more critical than an overblown wedding costing $200,000+? A trip to Magnolia Shores might help change her perspective.
Shelby is the daughter, showing she is learning what it means to grow up and accept responsibility. Her move to Magnolia Shores changes her life in many positive ways. There are opportunities to demonstrate her talents and learn many new skills. She is in the decision-making stage and exhibits a new level of maturity, too. Shelby’s love life? That is a big question that she still needs to work on making better choices. She has two young men in her life, and she needs to choose between them. Sooner than later, she may have to.
Magnolia Shores is facing a major renovation that will make it a destination resort. Everyone needs to be all-in before things begin. This decision means changing existing jobs for the potential of spectacular careers. The renovation will provide much fodder for author Farley to give the readers many dynamic new stories in the future! This series is not to be missed!
Beneath the Carolina Sun is the continuing saga of one family's lives, loves, heartbreak, and restoration. Magnolia Shores is a luxurious family home in the Lowcountry of South Carolina. According to the patriarch's will, it is a B&B to be run by family members with a little outside help. Author Ashley Farley has chosen this setting for her Sandy Island Series. This series will grab your attention and keep you invested in the characters.
Magnolia Shores continues to draw Kate to make it her permanent home after her prolonged visit to care for her Mother, Izzy. However, that will require significant changes in her life. Is she ready to face the fact that her marriage is over? She and Rand have not had a close relationship in years. He has put his profession as a cardiologist before her or their daughters. At least, that is what she thought. Kate has always dreamed of having a lighting company of her own. When an opportunity to produce her designs presents itself, she must decide whether to follow her dreams.
Grace is planning the wedding of the century. She is consuming herself with nothing but the wedding and is turning into Bridezilla on steroids. Will the wedding plans doom her relationship with Wyatt, or will she finally be knocked to her senses and realize that her relationship is more critical than an overblown wedding costing $200,000+? A trip to Magnolia Shores might help change her perspective.
Shelby is the daughter, showing she is learning what it means to grow up and accept responsibility. Her move to Magnolia Shores changes her life in many positive ways. There are opportunities to demonstrate her talents and learn many new skills. She is in the decision-making stage and exhibits a new level of maturity, too. Shelby’s love life? That is a big question that she still needs to work on making better choices. She has two young men in her life, and she needs to choose between them. Sooner than later, she may have to.
Magnolia Shores is facing a major renovation that will make it a destination resort. Everyone needs to be all-in before things begin. This decision means changing existing jobs for the potential of spectacular careers. The renovation will provide much fodder for author Farley to give the readers many dynamic new stories in the future! This series is not to be missed!
October 21, 2024
Beneath the Carolina Sun by Ashley Farley is once again a satisfying read. It is the second book in the Sandy Island series with Southern Discomfort being book one. I am really enjoying this series and looking forward to seeing where it goes and ends.
I love that each series by this author is a total of three or four books and then a new series comes to us with a character or two from the previous series. It is an interesting take on writing and reading a series. I get involved with the characters and it is a fun way to keep the story moving. It lets a new reader jump in and not feel lost.
This series has brought us an interesting character that I don’t want to ever see leave but, I’m sure she will. Blossom is one of those heavenly characters that is wise and full of advice and understanding. She is there at all the right moments. I would love to have a Blossom in my life!
If you know anything about me by now, you know that Ashley Farley is at the top of my list of favorite authors. I have many of them but she is one of the authors that I don’t need to know the synopsis of the book to know I am going to read it. Each standalone book has its own flavor as does each series. When someone mentions one of her books or series, I am instantly transported into that world. I can see the buildings and the town. How many authors do that for you?
If you love clean books with romance, older and younger characters, some angst which is always a must, then you will love this series. It keeps you interested, involved and looking forward to the next book and the continuation of the plot. I will always recommend an Ashley Farley book for your nightstand. The Sandy Island series with Southern Discomfort and Beneath the Carolina Sun should be right on top! Until next time…Happy Reading!
Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
I love that each series by this author is a total of three or four books and then a new series comes to us with a character or two from the previous series. It is an interesting take on writing and reading a series. I get involved with the characters and it is a fun way to keep the story moving. It lets a new reader jump in and not feel lost.
This series has brought us an interesting character that I don’t want to ever see leave but, I’m sure she will. Blossom is one of those heavenly characters that is wise and full of advice and understanding. She is there at all the right moments. I would love to have a Blossom in my life!
If you know anything about me by now, you know that Ashley Farley is at the top of my list of favorite authors. I have many of them but she is one of the authors that I don’t need to know the synopsis of the book to know I am going to read it. Each standalone book has its own flavor as does each series. When someone mentions one of her books or series, I am instantly transported into that world. I can see the buildings and the town. How many authors do that for you?
If you love clean books with romance, older and younger characters, some angst which is always a must, then you will love this series. It keeps you interested, involved and looking forward to the next book and the continuation of the plot. I will always recommend an Ashley Farley book for your nightstand. The Sandy Island series with Southern Discomfort and Beneath the Carolina Sun should be right on top! Until next time…Happy Reading!
Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
February 13, 2025
I've enjoyed many of Ashely Farleys books, but this series didn't really give me much. The first one was ok; ok enough that I decided to check out the second one. But the second one is pretty much just the same as the first; one young woman being a spoiled brat and then during the last part of the book she totally sees sense and turns into a good human being. (Yes, this is very simplified.)
In the first book, Grace is the "good" daughter. In this book she's a total brat. Until she stops being a brat when she almost looses her fiance because of her spoiled bratty behaviour. (Which doesn't make sense as they've already been together for many years and her behaviour seemed way too extreme to be a "temporary stress reaction" thing). To me this just seemed a bit too much; I just didn't believe in this character as a real person. When she just basically decided to change over night, it didn't help me engage in the story as is was so sudden and unrealistic.Also, this story line is kind of just copy paste from the first book, just with the other sister being the bratty one.
I did enjoy parts of this, I mean, I like reading about relationships and people moving on and making changes. I also enjoy family dynamics - both dysfunctional and functional. But this was too clichéd and predictable, too simple and not nuanced. People being bad (husband and best friend) og being good (Blossom). No in between, no layers, just characters designed to be either "liked" or "disliked".
So shorty put; the characters are ok, but too simple and not what I concider well developed. The plot would be ok if the writing and charters were better, but with just average writing and the lack of character depth ... Whilst also not being funny ha-ha nor emotional ... Well, there just isn't enough here for me to give and more stars, not even fractions of one.
In the first book, Grace is the "good" daughter. In this book she's a total brat. Until she stops being a brat when she almost looses her fiance because of her spoiled bratty behaviour. (Which doesn't make sense as they've already been together for many years and her behaviour seemed way too extreme to be a "temporary stress reaction" thing). To me this just seemed a bit too much; I just didn't believe in this character as a real person. When she just basically decided to change over night, it didn't help me engage in the story as is was so sudden and unrealistic.Also, this story line is kind of just copy paste from the first book, just with the other sister being the bratty one.
I did enjoy parts of this, I mean, I like reading about relationships and people moving on and making changes. I also enjoy family dynamics - both dysfunctional and functional. But this was too clichéd and predictable, too simple and not nuanced. People being bad (husband and best friend) og being good (Blossom). No in between, no layers, just characters designed to be either "liked" or "disliked".
So shorty put; the characters are ok, but too simple and not what I concider well developed. The plot would be ok if the writing and charters were better, but with just average writing and the lack of character depth ... Whilst also not being funny ha-ha nor emotional ... Well, there just isn't enough here for me to give and more stars, not even fractions of one.
October 23, 2024
Thank you @ashleyfarley for the #gifted ebook and for including me on your street team.
Kate has returned to Magnolia Shores to take care of her mother who is recovering from a stroke. With a failing marriage back in Texas, she has to decide whether to try and save her marriage or follow her dream of opening a light fixture store in the Lowcountry.
Grace has turned into a Bridezilla and her fiance has given her an ultimatum. She is keeping a secret that could blow up her family and destroy her dreams of a fairy tale wedding.
Shelby has finally come into her own as reservations manager at Magnolia Shores. But being left out of her sisters wedding and Grace's surprise arrival at Magnolia Shores opens old wounds. Shelby also has two love interest. Who will she choose, the bad boy who gives her all the feels or the good boy who is dependable and treats her like a woman should be treated.
And let's not forget Blossom who is watching out for all the family members at Magnolia Shores. We should all have a Blossom in our lives!
I have to confess I love everything Ashley Farley writes. Her characters are well developed and relatable. By the end of the book the characters feel like friends and family and I hate the story to end. BENEATH THE CAROLINA SUN is the second book in the series but can be read as a standalone. But I highly recommend you read SOUTHERN COMFORT so you get the full backstory. BENEATH THE CAROLINA SUN is a story of family secrets, reconciling the past, forgiveness, and finding what makes you happy.
Kate has returned to Magnolia Shores to take care of her mother who is recovering from a stroke. With a failing marriage back in Texas, she has to decide whether to try and save her marriage or follow her dream of opening a light fixture store in the Lowcountry.
Grace has turned into a Bridezilla and her fiance has given her an ultimatum. She is keeping a secret that could blow up her family and destroy her dreams of a fairy tale wedding.
Shelby has finally come into her own as reservations manager at Magnolia Shores. But being left out of her sisters wedding and Grace's surprise arrival at Magnolia Shores opens old wounds. Shelby also has two love interest. Who will she choose, the bad boy who gives her all the feels or the good boy who is dependable and treats her like a woman should be treated.
And let's not forget Blossom who is watching out for all the family members at Magnolia Shores. We should all have a Blossom in our lives!
I have to confess I love everything Ashley Farley writes. Her characters are well developed and relatable. By the end of the book the characters feel like friends and family and I hate the story to end. BENEATH THE CAROLINA SUN is the second book in the series but can be read as a standalone. But I highly recommend you read SOUTHERN COMFORT so you get the full backstory. BENEATH THE CAROLINA SUN is a story of family secrets, reconciling the past, forgiveness, and finding what makes you happy.
October 1, 2024
Book two of the Sandy Island series, picks right up where book one left off. Kate, Shelby’s mother has arrived at Magnolia Shores and is helping run the B&B while her mother, Izzy is recovering from a stroke. Lovable Blossom is still there endearing herself to the family as she pitches in to help where needed, and freely hands out advice, whether asked for or not.
Kate’s father, wealthy Edward St. Clair had left specific instructions in his will to turn their large family home into a B&B. Now plans are in the works to build The Sanctuary, an upscale, luxury resort on their large ocean front property.
Shelby, Kate’s daughter has been managing the registrations and providing help where needed. She has made some new friends, and has decided to make the Lowcountry her home, with no plans to return to Texas. Her sister, Grace, shows up at the B&B unexpectedly, mainly because she is stressing over her upcoming wedding, still months away. She has some pretty grandiose plans that far exceed the budget her dad has agreed to. Her bridezilla behavior has also forged a wedge in her relationship with her fiancé.
This intriguing story has some unexpected surprises that changes the course of several lives. As always, Ashley’s characters are unforgettable, and depending on their role, mostly loveable. I found it difficult to quit reading until the last page was turned.
Kate’s father, wealthy Edward St. Clair had left specific instructions in his will to turn their large family home into a B&B. Now plans are in the works to build The Sanctuary, an upscale, luxury resort on their large ocean front property.
Shelby, Kate’s daughter has been managing the registrations and providing help where needed. She has made some new friends, and has decided to make the Lowcountry her home, with no plans to return to Texas. Her sister, Grace, shows up at the B&B unexpectedly, mainly because she is stressing over her upcoming wedding, still months away. She has some pretty grandiose plans that far exceed the budget her dad has agreed to. Her bridezilla behavior has also forged a wedge in her relationship with her fiancé.
This intriguing story has some unexpected surprises that changes the course of several lives. As always, Ashley’s characters are unforgettable, and depending on their role, mostly loveable. I found it difficult to quit reading until the last page was turned.
October 3, 2024
Book two takes us back to Sandy Island and the women at the Magnolia Shores bed and breakfast. Shelby has accepted her place as the reservation manager and is thriving in all areas except her love life. She is estranged from her sister Grace mostly because Grace never asked her to be in her bridal party. Grace still lives in Texas and takes being a bridezilla to new heights. She wants the perfect high society wedding and wants her parents to provide the money to make her dreams come true. Unfortunately, there is a problem between her parents. Kate has been unhappy in her marriage for a long time and when she returns to the low country to help her mother after her stroke, she wonders why she ever left a place where she was so happy. She has to make a decision whether to return to her hollow marriage or remain in SC where she is happy. The final and maybe most important strong woman in the story is Blossom. No one knew where she came from but they begin to believe that she is an angel sent to help the family find peace and happiness.
Ashley Farley once again brings her readers strong women of all ages who are facing life changes and have to learn to rely on other women for help. The characters are all very believable and seem like people that I know in real life. This is a series that you don't want to miss.
Ashley Farley once again brings her readers strong women of all ages who are facing life changes and have to learn to rely on other women for help. The characters are all very believable and seem like people that I know in real life. This is a series that you don't want to miss.
October 1, 2024
Absolutely amazing but it is an Ashley Farley story so of course it was amazing!
We are back at Magnolia Shores, and we are learning more about Kate. Kate has been taking care of her mother since her stroke and she is loving the low country again. Kate doesn't want to return to Texas and her failing marriage, but she has obligations in Texas. Once her mom is on the mend Kate decides to go back to Texas but things there aren't great.
Shelby is settling in better at her role as reservations manager for Magnolia Shores and there is more discussions on building a whole new hotel on the property. Will things work out for Shelby in the love department?
Grace, Shelby's sister and Kate's other daughter, is back in the low country being the ungrateful child that she is. Demanding her mother to come back to Texas so that they can spend an extravagant amount of money on her wedding. Bridezilla?? You bet! I really didn't like Grace because of her being self centered and spoiled rotten. But my opinion changed, and I feel that had something to do with Blossom's influence on Grace.
Blossom, my favourite character! Everyone needs a Blossom in their life and I wish I had one.
I really enjoyed the book and can't wait for the next one to come out in the series. The author has a way of writing down to earth characters and I would love to see this series turned into a series. Then again all of Ashley's books need to be turned into a series.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
We are back at Magnolia Shores, and we are learning more about Kate. Kate has been taking care of her mother since her stroke and she is loving the low country again. Kate doesn't want to return to Texas and her failing marriage, but she has obligations in Texas. Once her mom is on the mend Kate decides to go back to Texas but things there aren't great.
Shelby is settling in better at her role as reservations manager for Magnolia Shores and there is more discussions on building a whole new hotel on the property. Will things work out for Shelby in the love department?
Grace, Shelby's sister and Kate's other daughter, is back in the low country being the ungrateful child that she is. Demanding her mother to come back to Texas so that they can spend an extravagant amount of money on her wedding. Bridezilla?? You bet! I really didn't like Grace because of her being self centered and spoiled rotten. But my opinion changed, and I feel that had something to do with Blossom's influence on Grace.
Blossom, my favourite character! Everyone needs a Blossom in their life and I wish I had one.
I really enjoyed the book and can't wait for the next one to come out in the series. The author has a way of writing down to earth characters and I would love to see this series turned into a series. Then again all of Ashley's books need to be turned into a series.
I HIGHLY RECOMMEND!
February 3, 2025
The family journey continues
So much is happening at Marsh Point. As Izzy is trying to mend bridges with Savannah and Harper, she has a stroke. This brings Pritchard's sister Kate home. Kate is glad for the time away from her life in Austin, Texas and happy to spend time with her mother, Izzy, her daughter, Shelby, and the rest of her family. As Izzy recovers, Kate is realizing how much she misses the low country, and Shelby finds herself torn between two men. Then Grace, Kate's other daughter, shows up with a lot of drama. Everyone is trying to figure out what to do. Kate who has always wanted to open a lighting business using her designs finds the opportunity to do so. But can she when she still has her life in Austin. Things come to a head for Kate when she returns to Austin and finds her husband has put them so far into debt they will have to sell their home. Then she finds out he has been having an affair. Will Kate return to Sandy Point? Will she go forward with her business? Will Grace come to terms with the drama in her life? Will Shelby be able to follow her heart?
So much is happening at Marsh Point. As Izzy is trying to mend bridges with Savannah and Harper, she has a stroke. This brings Pritchard's sister Kate home. Kate is glad for the time away from her life in Austin, Texas and happy to spend time with her mother, Izzy, her daughter, Shelby, and the rest of her family. As Izzy recovers, Kate is realizing how much she misses the low country, and Shelby finds herself torn between two men. Then Grace, Kate's other daughter, shows up with a lot of drama. Everyone is trying to figure out what to do. Kate who has always wanted to open a lighting business using her designs finds the opportunity to do so. But can she when she still has her life in Austin. Things come to a head for Kate when she returns to Austin and finds her husband has put them so far into debt they will have to sell their home. Then she finds out he has been having an affair. Will Kate return to Sandy Point? Will she go forward with her business? Will Grace come to terms with the drama in her life? Will Shelby be able to follow her heart?
August 7, 2024
Beneath the Carolina Sun is the second book of the Sandy Island series.
This book follows Kate, as she is at a crossroads with her marriage crumbling, while she’s trying to help her mother after Izzy’s stroke. She realizes she loves living in the Low Country, helping run the family’s B&B, and she’s also exploring starting a lighting company as a designer of high-end fixtures. She is torn between working it out with her husband – or breaking free. Time will tell her which decision is absolutely the best one for her!
Kate’s daughter Shelby is happy working at the B&B, and she too is dealing with conflict, trying to decide between two men seeking her attention. One is a little wild and unstable, drinks too much, sees other women, and the other is sure and steady but there’s no chemistry.
Kate’s other daughter Grace is very self-centered and only worried about having a huge wedding causing a lot of conflict with her mother – and her fiancé! Will it all work out?
There is so much going on in this book and so much to keep a reader engaged and turning the pages! That’s Ashley Farley for you! Always keeping us on our toes and always new and exciting stories!
This book follows Kate, as she is at a crossroads with her marriage crumbling, while she’s trying to help her mother after Izzy’s stroke. She realizes she loves living in the Low Country, helping run the family’s B&B, and she’s also exploring starting a lighting company as a designer of high-end fixtures. She is torn between working it out with her husband – or breaking free. Time will tell her which decision is absolutely the best one for her!
Kate’s daughter Shelby is happy working at the B&B, and she too is dealing with conflict, trying to decide between two men seeking her attention. One is a little wild and unstable, drinks too much, sees other women, and the other is sure and steady but there’s no chemistry.
Kate’s other daughter Grace is very self-centered and only worried about having a huge wedding causing a lot of conflict with her mother – and her fiancé! Will it all work out?
There is so much going on in this book and so much to keep a reader engaged and turning the pages! That’s Ashley Farley for you! Always keeping us on our toes and always new and exciting stories!
October 22, 2024
I love this series and these characters so much! When I sat down to read Beneath the Carolina Sun, I got lost in their world and didn't emerge until I got to the cliffhanger end. And that ending? Of course, we have to have more!!
As the reader, I was taken back to the beautiful island and Magnolia Shores and dropped into the somewhat hectic and drama filled world of the island's inhabitants. All of my favorite people were there and I loved catching up with all of them and seeing where their lives and their decisions were going to take them. As with all of Ashley's stories, this place starts to feel like home and the characters become my family and friends.
Beneath the Carolina Sun was such a satisfying read and I am so excited for more of this fabulous series. Book number three, Southern Simmer will be coming out in January and I can't wait! I highly recommend this whole series.
As the reader, I was taken back to the beautiful island and Magnolia Shores and dropped into the somewhat hectic and drama filled world of the island's inhabitants. All of my favorite people were there and I loved catching up with all of them and seeing where their lives and their decisions were going to take them. As with all of Ashley's stories, this place starts to feel like home and the characters become my family and friends.
Beneath the Carolina Sun was such a satisfying read and I am so excited for more of this fabulous series. Book number three, Southern Simmer will be coming out in January and I can't wait! I highly recommend this whole series.
October 4, 2024
Beneath the Carolina Sun by Ashley Farley ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Book 2 in the Sandy Island. Must read book 1 before reading book 2.
What a wonderful story about 3 generations of the St.Clair family. And it isn't all roses for this family, along there is drama and lots of its what makes this family enjoyable. Learning in and outs of everyday life. Grace made me so mad, I wanted to slap her through my Kindle. Lol She's definitely a soiled brat and she didn't care who she hurt along the way. But its what made this story heartfelt and enjoyable.
I really hope there is more to come in this series, it can't be how it ends.
I highly recommend this book as well as the rest of Ashley's series. Its my second series I've read and can't wait to tackle another.
Book 2 in the Sandy Island. Must read book 1 before reading book 2.
What a wonderful story about 3 generations of the St.Clair family. And it isn't all roses for this family, along there is drama and lots of its what makes this family enjoyable. Learning in and outs of everyday life. Grace made me so mad, I wanted to slap her through my Kindle. Lol She's definitely a soiled brat and she didn't care who she hurt along the way. But its what made this story heartfelt and enjoyable.
I really hope there is more to come in this series, it can't be how it ends.
I highly recommend this book as well as the rest of Ashley's series. Its my second series I've read and can't wait to tackle another.
October 13, 2024
Life is about to change for a few people in this story. Kate has put her dream on hold, and put her husband and daughters first. Now she is at a crossroad, and life shows her many things, to help her make her decisions.
Her daughter Grace is planning her fairy tale wedding, but at what cost? Shelby, her other daughter, was given a ticket to go to the Magnolia Shores, helping her grandmother. She found her place when she got there, and fell in love with it.
They are all at crossroads, and you should read the book to find out, what they each decide, what happens, and how they each will come out of what they are going through. Another amazing book from Ashley Farley that I had to read the minute I received the notification I could download it, until it was done.
Her daughter Grace is planning her fairy tale wedding, but at what cost? Shelby, her other daughter, was given a ticket to go to the Magnolia Shores, helping her grandmother. She found her place when she got there, and fell in love with it.
They are all at crossroads, and you should read the book to find out, what they each decide, what happens, and how they each will come out of what they are going through. Another amazing book from Ashley Farley that I had to read the minute I received the notification I could download it, until it was done.
November 29, 2025
I'm going to write the same review of vote for the first book in the series:
I sometimes struggle with ratings because I genuinely enjoy Ashley Farley’s writing. Her books always keep my attention, and I’m excited every time I start a new one. I love her characters, and her novels are the perfect kind of “mind candy”—engaging, comforting, and fun to read.
They don’t have the depth or research I look for in the historical fiction I also love, which is why I’m giving this one four stars instead of five. Still, it’s a great book, and I’m already looking forward to the next in the series!
I sometimes struggle with ratings because I genuinely enjoy Ashley Farley’s writing. Her books always keep my attention, and I’m excited every time I start a new one. I love her characters, and her novels are the perfect kind of “mind candy”—engaging, comforting, and fun to read.
They don’t have the depth or research I look for in the historical fiction I also love, which is why I’m giving this one four stars instead of five. Still, it’s a great book, and I’m already looking forward to the next in the series!
September 25, 2024
Love this series so fabulous. These poor women going through so much drama. Kate job,husband,and best friend let her down in a big way. Grace turned into bridezilla. No one can stand to be around her. Shelby has a decision to make between two guys to have her heart. Got a bit of guardian angel wisdom with blossom. A little twist at the end. Wonderful characters storyline intriguing from beginning to end. Highly recommended
October 1, 2024
Beneath the Carolina Sun is such a good book. I dare say this is my favorite of Ashley Farley’s books. It’s packed full of all the emotions we experience in life. There is family drama that will keep you turning the pages. Sisters who clash, secrets that should have never been kept and who needs best friends like Claudia?Just when we thought Blossom was ready to move on she realized there was more work to be done. We all need a Blossom.
October 3, 2024
Infidelity, quarrels between sisters, business decisions, life altering choices, love, and more. The author takes the reader into the lives of a family dealing with dysfunction, wedding plans, betrayal, and relationships. Each story this author writes brings characters that are complex and interesting. Looking forward to reading more stories by Ashley Farley. I received a complimentary copy of the book. No review was required.
October 5, 2024
Great read with family dynamics. Sisters who are total opposites and don’t get along. One is a bridezilla and the other has low self esteem when it comes to relationships. A mother torn between her daughter’s dream wedding and her chance at a lifelong dream of her own while dealing with her own relationship issues. A great cast of characters and a setting you can feel and picture as if you are there.
October 31, 2024
Another good book from Ashley Farley. Things are heating up in Magnolia Shores. This book is about Izzy's daughter from Texas and her daughters. Kate's marriage is on the rocks. We thought that her daughter, Shelby, (that we met in the previous book) has straightened up her life. As the book progressed, she had unprotected sex with two men in the same week. Grace, the bridezilla, is making everyone miserable. In the end everyone is happy.
September 21, 2024
Where do I start? I had so much fun reading this latest book. Blossom will always be my favorite. But, the growth in all of the characters was amazing, without spoiling it too much, Grace really did a 180 and boy did she get it right. I laughed and cried (both sad and happy tears.) But, in the end I was so sad to finish it. I wanted it to keep going. Well done, Ashley!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 22, 2024
This series just gets better! I especially love the addition of Kate to this installment! The progression of several characters was a pleasant journey. Packed with drama galore, I couldn’t stop reading!
And now - oh my gosh! The way this one ended?!? I need the next book yesterday!! I can hardly wait for it!
And now - oh my gosh! The way this one ended?!? I need the next book yesterday!! I can hardly wait for it!
October 22, 2024
I love this series. This is the second book in the series you will need to read the first one but it is so worth it. This is a great read about three generation of strong southern women, family drama in a family Bed and Breakfast. They all have their secrets but with a guardian angel with them to help them come together as a family. I can't recommend this highly enough.
February 6, 2025
A Warm and Fuzzy Drama
The interwoven drama of family relationships are all part of this story with just a touch divine intervention make this a delightful story. Each of us has a unique story to tell about adult relationships with our children. Life doesn't always turn out as we expect.
The interwoven drama of family relationships are all part of this story with just a touch divine intervention make this a delightful story. Each of us has a unique story to tell about adult relationships with our children. Life doesn't always turn out as we expect.
April 5, 2025
In the second book in a three part series Shelby is joined by her mother Kate at Magnolia Shores to help care for her mother who has had a stroke. She takes on her mother’s duties of cooking breakfast at the B&B while settling into the carefree lifestyle of Magnolia Shores and remembering her childhood. Kate is at a crossroads in her life with work and her marriage.
December 15, 2024
Ashley Farley rocks it again.
Ashley doesn't disappoint in this installment. Characters are fun, relatable, and enjoyable. I always get caught up in her books. Looking forward to part 3.
Ashley doesn't disappoint in this installment. Characters are fun, relatable, and enjoyable. I always get caught up in her books. Looking forward to part 3.
May 2, 2025
Great Read!
Loved the second installment! I think I’m going right into the 3rd and final book because I just can’t wait to see what happens! Which isn’t normal for me, so glad I found this trilogy!
Loved the second installment! I think I’m going right into the 3rd and final book because I just can’t wait to see what happens! Which isn’t normal for me, so glad I found this trilogy!
October 23, 2024
Another great book to the series. We learned more about past characters and meet some new. Leaving me to want to know more.
December 1, 2024
I enjoyed this book! It has a lot of family drama! Amazing how two sisters from the same mom and dad can turn out very different. Ashley did a great job with this book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 38 reviews