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Hobby Island #1
The Summer That Shaped Us
From New York Times bestselling author Lori Wilde comes her newest story about three generations of women, an island with an air of mystery and magic, and one summer that changes everything—perfect for fans of Jill Shalvis and Susan Mallery.
In the Gulf of Mexico, near South Padre, sits a private island with a bit of a magic about the colors are brighter, the food tastes better, and turtles and cranes find sanctuary there. The billionaire heiress who built the thriving resort on Hobby Island exclusively for crafters, Eloisa Hobby, is as much a mystery as she is a mentor. Those with troubles are invited in the aftermath of an emotional turmoil, and with help from the other crafters on the island Eloisa acts as a sounding board while she gently and unobtrusively guides the visitors toward healthy resolutions in their lives. Only a few receive the honor of a golden ticket.
Luna, ever the pragmatist, is reeling in the wake of she’s just moved with her fierce, opinionated teenage daughter Artemis to her mother’s house, after they lost their husband and father. But her mother, Jeanie, artistic and sensitive, has faced her own troubles recently, and her home may not be the stable sanctuary the three women so desperately need.
When Jeanie receives one of the coveted tickets, inviting her and her family to Hobby Island, the blessing is one they can’t turn down, though both Luna and Artie remain skeptical of their eccentric host and benefactor. Together, the three of them will have to learn to trust one another again, accept help from those who love them, and embrace life—during a summer they’ll never forget.
In the Gulf of Mexico, near South Padre, sits a private island with a bit of a magic about the colors are brighter, the food tastes better, and turtles and cranes find sanctuary there. The billionaire heiress who built the thriving resort on Hobby Island exclusively for crafters, Eloisa Hobby, is as much a mystery as she is a mentor. Those with troubles are invited in the aftermath of an emotional turmoil, and with help from the other crafters on the island Eloisa acts as a sounding board while she gently and unobtrusively guides the visitors toward healthy resolutions in their lives. Only a few receive the honor of a golden ticket.
Luna, ever the pragmatist, is reeling in the wake of she’s just moved with her fierce, opinionated teenage daughter Artemis to her mother’s house, after they lost their husband and father. But her mother, Jeanie, artistic and sensitive, has faced her own troubles recently, and her home may not be the stable sanctuary the three women so desperately need.
When Jeanie receives one of the coveted tickets, inviting her and her family to Hobby Island, the blessing is one they can’t turn down, though both Luna and Artie remain skeptical of their eccentric host and benefactor. Together, the three of them will have to learn to trust one another again, accept help from those who love them, and embrace life—during a summer they’ll never forget.
343 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 22, 2025
101 people are currently reading
12202 people want to read
About the author
Lori Wilde
397 books2,263 followersLori Wilde can’t remember a time when she didn’t want to write. She even went to nursing school so she could have a schedule flexible enough to allow her to write on the side. She nursed for 20 years, working in a variety of settings from the newborn nursery to the recovery room, to dialysis. But she never lost her desire to write.
She sold her first book in 1994 to Silhouette Romance but later discovered she had a flair for comedy and branched out to Harlequin Duets and now, to Blaze.
Lori is an adventuresome soul who loves to travel. She’s taken flying lessons, completed two marathons, rode in a hot-air balloon, performed with a professional jazz band, traveled Europe as a teenager, hiked volcanoes in Hawaii, trod on glaciers in Alaska, shot white-water rapids, water-skied, snow-skied, raced all-terrain vehicles, bodysurfed in the Gulf of Mexico, and photographed grizzly bears in Yellowstone.
She lives in her native Texas, with her own real-life hero, Bill.
She sold her first book in 1994 to Silhouette Romance but later discovered she had a flair for comedy and branched out to Harlequin Duets and now, to Blaze.
Lori is an adventuresome soul who loves to travel. She’s taken flying lessons, completed two marathons, rode in a hot-air balloon, performed with a professional jazz band, traveled Europe as a teenager, hiked volcanoes in Hawaii, trod on glaciers in Alaska, shot white-water rapids, water-skied, snow-skied, raced all-terrain vehicles, bodysurfed in the Gulf of Mexico, and photographed grizzly bears in Yellowstone.
She lives in her native Texas, with her own real-life hero, Bill.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 194 reviews
February 13, 2025
I received a free copy of, The Summer That Shaped Us, by Lori Wilde, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Hobby Island, is where you can go and relax and do your crafts and hobbies. You have to be invited to the island, you just cant show up there. Luna and her daughter have been invited to Hobby Island, after the loss in their family. This was a good read.
April 10, 2025
The Summer that shaped us was a really cute Summer read! It is a cozy fictional book about three generations of women. This was written in three point of views and was a fast paced, quick read! It is full of mystery and magic and takes place on an Island near Padre Island. This island doesn’t have wifi, so they are there escaping into hobbies and crafts. This book is about friendships, possible romance, magic and enjoying life. I really enjoyed the quotes in this book! Overall, I rate this book a 3.5 out of 5 stars.
Thank you to NetGalley, author Lori Wilde and Avon and Harper Voyager | Avon publishing for this digital advanced reader’s copy in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This Sunmer book is expected to be published on April 22, 2025!
Thank you to NetGalley, author Lori Wilde and Avon and Harper Voyager | Avon publishing for this digital advanced reader’s copy in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
This Sunmer book is expected to be published on April 22, 2025!
April 3, 2025
I enjoyed this book about people going away to Hobby Island to enjoy their crafts and escape “everyday life”. Since I am a crafter myself, this was right up my alley. No cell phones, no wi-fi … sounds fabulous to me. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review.
October 4, 2024
i want to say this was a quick read.. it kind of was
it just felt like it fell short to it’s potential i don’t know
this was a netgalley arc so the review is my own,
loved luna and the concept of the book but it was kinda duller than i was expecting ? it’s not the right word but it’s the only one that comes to mind
it just felt like it fell short to it’s potential i don’t know
this was a netgalley arc so the review is my own,
loved luna and the concept of the book but it was kinda duller than i was expecting ? it’s not the right word but it’s the only one that comes to mind
October 13, 2024
This book was not for me. I did not enjoy it. There was so much wacky drama going. For example, there was a major betrayal of the mother from years prior that changed the course of the daughters life and was discussed intensively and when the daughter found out, it was like okay. Resolved in half a chapter. Why make such a big deal about it to be so blasé about the resolution? This happened throughout the book. If this was a library rental or KU, I would have not finished. The only piece that kept me interested was the mystery/whodunnit aspect, but the story forgot about that arc and only brought it back in the end. Additionally, the dialogue felt unrealistic, like a robot wrote it. Phrases and pacing were really off. I’m sorry, but I cannot recommend this book.
Thank you Avon and Harper Voyager for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
Thank you Avon and Harper Voyager for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
October 1, 2024
I’ve always wanted to read this author. The story description peaked my interest and I found it a thought provoking read. The resort for crafter on Hobby Island was my kind of dream location. I’m very partial to the Gulf of Mexico area and have visited there very often. I just need to find this exclusive retreat with rainbows and clouds of blooms. The islands owner, Eloisa, is quirky, wise, fair and generous. She imparts wisdom and sets the stage for her guests to conquer obstacles. A grandmother, her daughter and teenage granddaughter are visiting for the first time. Each of them is burdened with past emotional trauma. The island focuses on self-reflection, affirmations, sort of new age vibes. There is some mystery, steamy romance, coming of age, new beginnings and coming to terms with the past. All of the characters were interesting, as were the crafts. Not everyone at the retreat has good intentions. Some have not embraced the goodwill and have evil, spiteful souls. I shed a few tears, laughed and reflected on my own life as I read. Forgiveness, self-worth and acceptance were some of my takeaways. Overall a delightful book.
Avon/HarperCollins (via NetGalley) provided an Advance Reader Copy of “The Summer That Shaped Us” by Lori Wilde, publication expected 04/22/2025. These are all my own honest, personal thoughts and opinions given voluntarily without compensation.
Avon/HarperCollins (via NetGalley) provided an Advance Reader Copy of “The Summer That Shaped Us” by Lori Wilde, publication expected 04/22/2025. These are all my own honest, personal thoughts and opinions given voluntarily without compensation.
March 22, 2025
Review coming soon.
July 8, 2025
This was a very whimsical and magical read!
First, let me just mention (and acknowledge) the writing. It was incredible, especially in regards to detail. The writing made this story so visual and created an overall tone of warmth, coziness, and comfort. Honestly, you couldn't help but want to live in this town! As a reader, you truly could visualize this beautiful small town island.
I would say this book could be compared or categorized as a cozy romance, cozy fiction, or cozy women's fiction. The story was enjoyable and a nice palette cleanser.
There were some really good life messages 'hidden' within this story and I think all of us could be reminded of some of these. It made the story that much more wholesome.
The ending really left me intrigued. I don't know if it was left that way to be open ended or if there will be another novel in the series. I would definitely be interested in reading more of this world if so.
First, let me just mention (and acknowledge) the writing. It was incredible, especially in regards to detail. The writing made this story so visual and created an overall tone of warmth, coziness, and comfort. Honestly, you couldn't help but want to live in this town! As a reader, you truly could visualize this beautiful small town island.
I would say this book could be compared or categorized as a cozy romance, cozy fiction, or cozy women's fiction. The story was enjoyable and a nice palette cleanser.
There were some really good life messages 'hidden' within this story and I think all of us could be reminded of some of these. It made the story that much more wholesome.
The ending really left me intrigued. I don't know if it was left that way to be open ended or if there will be another novel in the series. I would definitely be interested in reading more of this world if so.
October 4, 2024
3 stars out of 5.
I thought this book was just ok. I never really got invested in any of the characters and thought the mystery in the beginning wasn't explored fully. I did love the descriptive writing of Hobby Island, it sounded beautiful. The plot fell flat for me and I found it hard to pick the book back up to continue reading. I do love the cover of the book though, it is so vibrant and colorful.
In The Summer That Shaped Us, Jeanie wins a golden ticket to Hobby Island for 2 months. She invites her daughter Luna and her granddaughter Artie to go with her for the all expense paid vacation. Luna lost her husband a year prior and it has been hard on her and Artie to get through the tragedy so this vacation is much needed. Jeanie is also going through some hard times but that is what Hobby Island is for. All 3 must try and go through changes to come out stronger on the other side. New friendships are made and possibly new romances (or old ones from that matter).
Thank you Netgalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
I thought this book was just ok. I never really got invested in any of the characters and thought the mystery in the beginning wasn't explored fully. I did love the descriptive writing of Hobby Island, it sounded beautiful. The plot fell flat for me and I found it hard to pick the book back up to continue reading. I do love the cover of the book though, it is so vibrant and colorful.
In The Summer That Shaped Us, Jeanie wins a golden ticket to Hobby Island for 2 months. She invites her daughter Luna and her granddaughter Artie to go with her for the all expense paid vacation. Luna lost her husband a year prior and it has been hard on her and Artie to get through the tragedy so this vacation is much needed. Jeanie is also going through some hard times but that is what Hobby Island is for. All 3 must try and go through changes to come out stronger on the other side. New friendships are made and possibly new romances (or old ones from that matter).
Thank you Netgalley and Avon and Harper Voyager for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 4, 2025
3.85 - it started off good but then I got bored of it tbh
January 16, 2025
I have so many issues with this book. So many.
First, is the plot in the room with us? Because I couldn’t find it. We’re introduced to a mystery in the first chapter but then it’s never brought up again until the very end when we get a rushed and lackluster conclusion that is completely out of left field and unbelievable. Next time just tell us you forgot why you started writing the book and leave us guessing, please.
The most random conflicts and problems are constantly thrown into the story, but it’s okay because a few seconds later it’ll be fine and peachy again. It’s impossible to know what the major plot points are because everything is so muddled together.
There’s supposed to be this huge crafting competition with 100 contestants on a small island but we only ever see 5-10 characters interact with each other. Where is everybody else? Where is the competition? If you find it please let me know.
The characters are some of the most ridiculous I’ve ever read. They’re inconsistent and the way they talk is so awkward. Nobody talks like that. It’s like a kid imagining what adults talk like or when it comes to the teen characters it’s like what an out of touch adult thinks kids sound like or what aliens think humans talk like. The amount of times the words gak, wowee, and whoa-ho were included in somebody’s inner monologue was painful.
Oh, and that cliffhanger? What. The actual. Heck. I literally laughed out loud at how ridiculous, jarring, and off the wall that was.
Overall the writing is incredibly juvenile. You’ll never get me to believe that a prolific bestselling author ever laid their hands on this. But if you tell me an AI generator spit this out I’ll simply nod my head because that would make more sense than anything else.
First, is the plot in the room with us? Because I couldn’t find it. We’re introduced to a mystery in the first chapter but then it’s never brought up again until the very end when we get a rushed and lackluster conclusion that is completely out of left field and unbelievable. Next time just tell us you forgot why you started writing the book and leave us guessing, please.
The most random conflicts and problems are constantly thrown into the story, but it’s okay because a few seconds later it’ll be fine and peachy again. It’s impossible to know what the major plot points are because everything is so muddled together.
There’s supposed to be this huge crafting competition with 100 contestants on a small island but we only ever see 5-10 characters interact with each other. Where is everybody else? Where is the competition? If you find it please let me know.
The characters are some of the most ridiculous I’ve ever read. They’re inconsistent and the way they talk is so awkward. Nobody talks like that. It’s like a kid imagining what adults talk like or when it comes to the teen characters it’s like what an out of touch adult thinks kids sound like or what aliens think humans talk like. The amount of times the words gak, wowee, and whoa-ho were included in somebody’s inner monologue was painful.
Oh, and that cliffhanger? What. The actual. Heck. I literally laughed out loud at how ridiculous, jarring, and off the wall that was.
Overall the writing is incredibly juvenile. You’ll never get me to believe that a prolific bestselling author ever laid their hands on this. But if you tell me an AI generator spit this out I’ll simply nod my head because that would make more sense than anything else.
October 8, 2024
Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC. The Summer That Shaped Us is a good women’s fiction book.
Jeanie, her daughter Luna and granddaughter Artie, get invited to spend the summer on Hobby Island and be part of the annual quilting contest. All three women are hurting from recent life tragedies so a changed of scenery might be good for all of them. There are also a few secrets Jeanie is hiding from Luna. As they all get used to life on magical Hobby Island, one woman finds a lost love, one makes a new friendship while another comes to terms with various choices she has made.
What first drew me into this book was the vivid description of Hobby Island. Colors come alive as the jacaranda trees, the town, and character’s outfits are described.
This book is about the complex relationships between mother and daughter and about believing in yourself. it is also about healing and forgiveness. It was an easy read and I thoroughly enjoyed the story.
I really loved Eloisa Hobby’s quotes at the beginning of each chapter. By the way the book ended, there may be a sequel, which I will look forward to reading.
Jeanie, her daughter Luna and granddaughter Artie, get invited to spend the summer on Hobby Island and be part of the annual quilting contest. All three women are hurting from recent life tragedies so a changed of scenery might be good for all of them. There are also a few secrets Jeanie is hiding from Luna. As they all get used to life on magical Hobby Island, one woman finds a lost love, one makes a new friendship while another comes to terms with various choices she has made.
What first drew me into this book was the vivid description of Hobby Island. Colors come alive as the jacaranda trees, the town, and character’s outfits are described.
This book is about the complex relationships between mother and daughter and about believing in yourself. it is also about healing and forgiveness. It was an easy read and I thoroughly enjoyed the story.
I really loved Eloisa Hobby’s quotes at the beginning of each chapter. By the way the book ended, there may be a sequel, which I will look forward to reading.
September 25, 2024
This was a cute cozy quick read. Luna and Paul are good characters, book has a good theme
October 5, 2024
This book kind of grew on me, despite a slow start. I appreciated the thoughtful exploration of relationships and the satisfying resolutions but unfortunately, the mysterious setup at the beginning felt disconnected from the rest of the story, making it feel somewhat unnecessary. While the happy ending was a welcome payoff. Overall, a pleasant but not particularly memorable experience. A solid, one-time read.
September 21, 2024
I really enjoyed this quick read. It was sweet and had great themes.
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August 8, 2025Thank you so much to the publisher for the gifted copy.
Unfortunately this was a DNF for me. The pace was too slow for me. I tried to listen to the audiobook and unfortunately the narrator was not for me. I’m sad because I really wanted to love it but I am happy to see others loved it even if I didn’t.
Happy reading 📖
Unfortunately this was a DNF for me. The pace was too slow for me. I tried to listen to the audiobook and unfortunately the narrator was not for me. I’m sad because I really wanted to love it but I am happy to see others loved it even if I didn’t.
Happy reading 📖
January 20, 2025
I could go live or get lost in Hobby Island. I love that there is crating intertwined but also romance, financial situations, betrayals, finding peace, and so much more. The ending left me really hoping Lori Wilde comes with a second book.
December 12, 2024
This is a new-to-me author and I wasn’t sure what to expect, but I really enjoyed reading this one!
The story follows Jeanie (grandmother), Luna (middle aged daughter), and Artie (teen granddaughter). Jeanie wins a two-month trip to Hobby Island and Luna and Artie come along for the ride. They can all use the escape from the stressors they are carrying. They all have some healing to do and a contest to (hopefully) win to improve their financial situation. Luna has major trust issues (understandably so) due to some things that occurred with her parents, her former husband, and her high school sweetheart (who she unexpectedly reconnects with on the island). The characters are facing challenges with forgiving themselves and others, trusting others, letting their walls down, and letting go of fear-based living.
This one's for you if you enjoy a cozy and entertaining read that balances lightheartedness with some deeper topics (some about impacts of intergenerational trauma on relational dynamics). As I was reading it, I kept getting vibes similar to the quirky characters in Stars Hollow (Gilmore Girls), except this takes place on an island.
The pacing was a little off, but it did not significantly detract from my reading enjoyment. The love story immediately picking up after over 20 years felt a bit sudden but also was not the complete focus of the book, so I was able to set that aside.
Overall, solid 4 stars and I do recommend it! I am interested in exploring this author some more.
Thanks to Avon / Harper Voyager (via NetGalley) for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Expected Pub date: April 22, 2025
The story follows Jeanie (grandmother), Luna (middle aged daughter), and Artie (teen granddaughter). Jeanie wins a two-month trip to Hobby Island and Luna and Artie come along for the ride. They can all use the escape from the stressors they are carrying. They all have some healing to do and a contest to (hopefully) win to improve their financial situation. Luna has major trust issues (understandably so) due to some things that occurred with her parents, her former husband, and her high school sweetheart (who she unexpectedly reconnects with on the island). The characters are facing challenges with forgiving themselves and others, trusting others, letting their walls down, and letting go of fear-based living.
This one's for you if you enjoy a cozy and entertaining read that balances lightheartedness with some deeper topics (some about impacts of intergenerational trauma on relational dynamics). As I was reading it, I kept getting vibes similar to the quirky characters in Stars Hollow (Gilmore Girls), except this takes place on an island.
The pacing was a little off, but it did not significantly detract from my reading enjoyment. The love story immediately picking up after over 20 years felt a bit sudden but also was not the complete focus of the book, so I was able to set that aside.
Overall, solid 4 stars and I do recommend it! I am interested in exploring this author some more.
Thanks to Avon / Harper Voyager (via NetGalley) for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Expected Pub date: April 22, 2025
February 12, 2025
This storyline reminded me of the Eternity Springs series from Emily March; Hobby Island has Eloisa whereas Eternity Springs has Celeste.
Hobby Island is a crafters getaway. Eloisa is the "proprietor" of the island and runs a yearly competition from her online forum for crafters. Those lucky en0ugh receive golden tickets to enter the competition, and are invited to stay on the island for 2 months to work on their projects to enter them into the competition at the end of the their stay.
The main characters: Jeanie (the mother), Luna (daughter), Artemis (Luna's daughter), Paul (Luna's 1st love) and his daughter Orion. The other cast of characters Dot, Claire, Vivian. Each chapter was a different POV from the main characters, but there were times it seemed like the same "voice" was talking.
The take away from this story was forgiveness and moving on, but the betrayals that occurred were too big and were resolved with not too much conflict. There were some moments that felt disconnected, lines just got thrown into the story that didn't make sense to me.
Back to the betrayals.....I felt that everyone got off too easy.......however, was that the point (or magic?) of Hobby Island? Maybe. Eloisa and her gang of "Aunties" were quirky and eccentric to the point of nuttiness. I actually loved that. Eloisa was definitely an influence to "her guests". Now enter Demetra, her sister. My guess is we will be getting a sequel to Hobby Island.
I received this book from the author and I do appreciate the opportunity for the ARC to review. This is a solid 3-1/2 Stars for me and I look forward to the next book!
Hobby Island is a crafters getaway. Eloisa is the "proprietor" of the island and runs a yearly competition from her online forum for crafters. Those lucky en0ugh receive golden tickets to enter the competition, and are invited to stay on the island for 2 months to work on their projects to enter them into the competition at the end of the their stay.
The main characters: Jeanie (the mother), Luna (daughter), Artemis (Luna's daughter), Paul (Luna's 1st love) and his daughter Orion. The other cast of characters Dot, Claire, Vivian. Each chapter was a different POV from the main characters, but there were times it seemed like the same "voice" was talking.
The take away from this story was forgiveness and moving on, but the betrayals that occurred were too big and were resolved with not too much conflict. There were some moments that felt disconnected, lines just got thrown into the story that didn't make sense to me.
Back to the betrayals.....I felt that everyone got off too easy.......however, was that the point (or magic?) of Hobby Island? Maybe. Eloisa and her gang of "Aunties" were quirky and eccentric to the point of nuttiness. I actually loved that. Eloisa was definitely an influence to "her guests". Now enter Demetra, her sister. My guess is we will be getting a sequel to Hobby Island.
I received this book from the author and I do appreciate the opportunity for the ARC to review. This is a solid 3-1/2 Stars for me and I look forward to the next book!
May 21, 2025
Can we get a little commotion for this beautiful cover? Lori Wilde is the queen of beach reads and a summer staple for beach bags. I have a feeling I will be seeing The Summer That Shaped Us, on blankets and loungers, no matter where I go this summer. Grab your copy and dive in!
~T
*Thank you to Avon and Harper Collins Publishing for sharing this title with me.
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~T
*Thank you to Avon and Harper Collins Publishing for sharing this title with me.
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June 1, 2025
The cover of this book made me think it was a romance but it was so much more. It is a romance, yes, but it is also about community, family relationships, coming to terms with the past, and more. This book has a lot to offer.
This is the first book in the Hobby Island series so we meet a lot of characters. At times I had trouble keeping the secondary characters sorted out. I didn't really feel a connection with any of the characters, even the main characters of which there are three, Jeanie, Luna, and Artemis.
The story itself was ok and in a way reminded me of Debbie Macomber and the stories she writes about women. There was also what seemed like the slightest bit of magic in the story with Eloisa. With that said there was just a lot going on and it seemed a bit much for one book. I did find the pacing to be a little off at times, too.
I have mixed feelings about reading the next book in the series. I want to find out what happens but just don't know that I like the author's writing enough to spend time reading the next books. I was surprised to read the author has written a lot of books because the writing in this book seemed a bit on the amateur side.
All in all, this was an ok read. I'm not disappointed I spent time with these characters but I'm just not sure I want a return ticket to Hobby Island.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
This is the first book in the Hobby Island series so we meet a lot of characters. At times I had trouble keeping the secondary characters sorted out. I didn't really feel a connection with any of the characters, even the main characters of which there are three, Jeanie, Luna, and Artemis.
The story itself was ok and in a way reminded me of Debbie Macomber and the stories she writes about women. There was also what seemed like the slightest bit of magic in the story with Eloisa. With that said there was just a lot going on and it seemed a bit much for one book. I did find the pacing to be a little off at times, too.
I have mixed feelings about reading the next book in the series. I want to find out what happens but just don't know that I like the author's writing enough to spend time reading the next books. I was surprised to read the author has written a lot of books because the writing in this book seemed a bit on the amateur side.
All in all, this was an ok read. I'm not disappointed I spent time with these characters but I'm just not sure I want a return ticket to Hobby Island.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion.
May 29, 2025
Look at that cover!!! How could I not grab it up?
This island of relaxation and crafting paradise was created by an eccentric billionaire. You can only come to her island via invitation. Jeanie receives one of the coveted tickets and invites her family to come with her. They need this vacation and a chance to win some money after everything they have been through.
I guess there is a mystery in here and some romance, but it didn't overwhelm the plot. Honestly....the two didn't even feel like it was there at times. This is just a people story to be fair. People talking and growing and just plain existing.
What I would give to go to this island!! I'm not great at crafting but I do enjoy it immensely!!
I didn't take this book too seriously. When the weather was nice I just read it outside and enjoyed the warmth. There are some moral lessons sprinkled around....like forgiveness. Lots of quotable moments happened in the book.
It was slow-paced and interesting enough to stick with it. There is some drama sprinkled around but nothing that wasn't easily fixed. Maybe too easily though.
All-in-all, this was a cozy book for summer. I wish there had been a touch more mystery and/or romance involved, but oh well.
3 stars from me.
Favorite Character(s): Jeanie and Eloisa
Least Favorite Character(s): Nanette
This island of relaxation and crafting paradise was created by an eccentric billionaire. You can only come to her island via invitation. Jeanie receives one of the coveted tickets and invites her family to come with her. They need this vacation and a chance to win some money after everything they have been through.
I guess there is a mystery in here and some romance, but it didn't overwhelm the plot. Honestly....the two didn't even feel like it was there at times. This is just a people story to be fair. People talking and growing and just plain existing.
What I would give to go to this island!! I'm not great at crafting but I do enjoy it immensely!!
I didn't take this book too seriously. When the weather was nice I just read it outside and enjoyed the warmth. There are some moral lessons sprinkled around....like forgiveness. Lots of quotable moments happened in the book.
It was slow-paced and interesting enough to stick with it. There is some drama sprinkled around but nothing that wasn't easily fixed. Maybe too easily though.
All-in-all, this was a cozy book for summer. I wish there had been a touch more mystery and/or romance involved, but oh well.
3 stars from me.
Favorite Character(s): Jeanie and Eloisa
Least Favorite Character(s): Nanette
June 21, 2025
There’s a private island owned by Eloisa called hobby Island exclusively for crafters (invite only). Jeanie, her daughter Luna and her granddaughter Artie get to go there for free for the whole summer based on a golden ticket. The story is about relationships, growing as a person, forgiveness… and other things too, but that’s what primarily comes to mind.
The romance between Luna and her old high school love Paul was a little bit annoying. Luna is pretty judgmental and not a trusting person. So I thought that her treatment of Paul wasn’t so great. And lucky for her. Paul is incredibly forgiving.
There’s also the whole relationship between Jeanie and Luna that is strained and also between Luna and Artie. The story does a good job of working through their issues and allowing those relationships to heal.
There’s also a whole sub plot of a crafter who steals designs and Jeanie having been catfished. It’s very easy to see who the villains are in those sub plots.
There’s cameras covering the whole island which is definitely a little bit creepy.
Overall, the book wasn’t bad. It just wasn’t even up to Hallmark standards. It was just a little bit hokey and definitely not believable at all.
The romance between Luna and her old high school love Paul was a little bit annoying. Luna is pretty judgmental and not a trusting person. So I thought that her treatment of Paul wasn’t so great. And lucky for her. Paul is incredibly forgiving.
There’s also the whole relationship between Jeanie and Luna that is strained and also between Luna and Artie. The story does a good job of working through their issues and allowing those relationships to heal.
There’s also a whole sub plot of a crafter who steals designs and Jeanie having been catfished. It’s very easy to see who the villains are in those sub plots.
There’s cameras covering the whole island which is definitely a little bit creepy.
Overall, the book wasn’t bad. It just wasn’t even up to Hallmark standards. It was just a little bit hokey and definitely not believable at all.
October 16, 2024
Eloisa Hobby’s Hobby Island is a crafters paradise, but its invitation only. Everyone who gets a golden ticket to Hobby Island for a crafters retreat for two months in the summer leave different, but in a good way. The island seems to have healing ways. Luna and her daughter Artemis accompany her mother Jeanie to Hobby island when she receives a golden ticket, being in Eloisa’s quilting club. The three ladies are at a crossroads in their lives and these two months will give them much need time away from reality. They didn’t know how much the summer would change their lives and teach them about each other.
I love the concept of an island where you do crafts, and had all the shops of every kind of craft. I am one that has many hobbies, with one of the being reading of course. Overall, I loved how this book came together and love the ending.
Thank you Harper and Avon Voyager for this eARC for my honest review. This was overall a cute book and I look forward to reading others by Lori Wilde.
I love the concept of an island where you do crafts, and had all the shops of every kind of craft. I am one that has many hobbies, with one of the being reading of course. Overall, I loved how this book came together and love the ending.
Thank you Harper and Avon Voyager for this eARC for my honest review. This was overall a cute book and I look forward to reading others by Lori Wilde.
January 2, 2025
The Summer That Shaped Us had some engaging elements but ultimately fell a bit short for me. The story explores the lives of three generations of women, each facing their own struggles. I appreciated how the book tackled themes like forgiveness, growing up, and coming of age, weaving them through the characters’ arcs. The second-chance romance added a layer of complexity, and the mystery subplot helped to keep the narrative moving.
That said, while the themes and tropes were interesting, the execution left something to be desired. The pacing dragged in parts, and I didn’t feel as connected to the characters as I hoped to. While I enjoyed aspects of the story, I wasn’t fully invested in the outcome.
This is a book I might pick up again if I were in the right mood, but it wouldn’t be at the top of my list. If you enjoy multigenerational stories with a mix of romance and mystery, it could be worth a read, but it didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
That said, while the themes and tropes were interesting, the execution left something to be desired. The pacing dragged in parts, and I didn’t feel as connected to the characters as I hoped to. While I enjoyed aspects of the story, I wasn’t fully invested in the outcome.
This is a book I might pick up again if I were in the right mood, but it wouldn’t be at the top of my list. If you enjoy multigenerational stories with a mix of romance and mystery, it could be worth a read, but it didn’t quite hit the mark for me.
April 19, 2025
I truly enjoyed this story and getting introduced to Hobby Island and it's guardian/caretaker Eloisa. She has wonderful pearls of wisdom at the start of every chapter. This is a remarkable story about self-awareness, self-help, community, and learning to let go of the things that don't bring you joy. Three woman Jeanie, Luna, and Artemis; a mother, daughter, and grand-daughter are invited to Hobby Island to enter a quilt contest. Each of these woman has something to learn about themselves and somehow make better. They each carry their own burdens that they don't easily or readily share with one another.
There is a delightful cast of characters and a beautiful setting. The writing flows so smoothly and is inspirational. This is a beautifully crafted work.
I wish Hobby Island was a real place so that I could go there and soak up all the wonderfulness of it.
I received an advanced readers e-proof of this book from the publisher through Net Galley.
There is a delightful cast of characters and a beautiful setting. The writing flows so smoothly and is inspirational. This is a beautifully crafted work.
I wish Hobby Island was a real place so that I could go there and soak up all the wonderfulness of it.
I received an advanced readers e-proof of this book from the publisher through Net Galley.
December 3, 2024
3.5 stars! What I would give for a trip to Hobby Island! This was such a beautiful story of growth and forgiveness and overcoming our traumas. Lori captured the bond between a mother and daughter perfectly! If you're looking for a good laugh (and a good cry) with the smallest sprinkle of spice, I absolutely recommend this one!
Thank you Lori and Netgalley for the ARC opportunity!
Thank you Lori and Netgalley for the ARC opportunity!
October 15, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and HarperCollins Publishers for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest review!
I very much enjoyed this book! It was whimsical and dreamy and gave major Hallmark vibes. If you are looking for something cozy and wholesome with relatable characters and a beautiful and relaxing atmosphere, I would recommend. I would have liked there to be a little more detail in the physical descriptions of some of the characters, because it was hard to picture what they looked like which took away from their fullness. The author did a great job of building up suspense about the secrets throughout the story, keeping the reader on her toes. Some of the dialogue was a bit unrealistic which took me out of the story sometimes, however this also could have something to do with the wholesome and feel-good theme of the book. Overall, it was enjoyable and the author left us on a cliffhanger so I know there will be a sequel!
I very much enjoyed this book! It was whimsical and dreamy and gave major Hallmark vibes. If you are looking for something cozy and wholesome with relatable characters and a beautiful and relaxing atmosphere, I would recommend. I would have liked there to be a little more detail in the physical descriptions of some of the characters, because it was hard to picture what they looked like which took away from their fullness. The author did a great job of building up suspense about the secrets throughout the story, keeping the reader on her toes. Some of the dialogue was a bit unrealistic which took me out of the story sometimes, however this also could have something to do with the wholesome and feel-good theme of the book. Overall, it was enjoyable and the author left us on a cliffhanger so I know there will be a sequel!
April 22, 2025
This is a magical book and one that offers hope to those who need help with relationships and forgiveness. The story is based around a fictional place called Hobby Island where contestants can go to practice their craft and perhaps win a significant monetary prize. Jeanie wins a “golden ticket” allowing her to go and take her daughter and granddaughter along as she pursues her dream of winning the prize and saving her home from foreclosure. Jeanie’s story is realistic and compelling, but there are several sub-plots in this novel and I found the story of her daughter Luna the most absorbing. Luna undergoes a real metamorphosis on the island and in this process finds out who she really is and what she actually wants from life. I really enjoyed getting to know Artemis, the precocious daughter of Luna, who finds a forever friend on the island and accepts change and challenges more easily than the adults do. The story is told via the points of view of various characters and the constant switching made the story seem disjointed to me at times, but the good news is that it all came together well in the end. This book is contemporary fiction mixed with fantasy and romance as well as young adult fiction, too. The pace was moderate and seemed to fit the way the story meandered all over the island and from character to character. I highly recommend this book for adult readers and mature young adults.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, All opinions expressed are my own honest ones.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, All opinions expressed are my own honest ones.
September 24, 2024
Jeanie gets invited to an island to compete in a quilting competition and brings her daughter and granddaughter along with her. This book takes you on a journey of this family and growth in their characters and relationships.
I really enjoyed reading this book. The characters growth and story line was really sweat.
Minus 1 star because the relationship between Paul and Luna because Lunas love for him was more tell than show. Luna and Paul constantly said they had feelings for each other and love each other but there wasn’t many moments that showed Lunas feelings.
I recommend this book to anyone that enjoys reading cozy books.
Thank you to NetGalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review!
I really enjoyed reading this book. The characters growth and story line was really sweat.
Minus 1 star because the relationship between Paul and Luna because Lunas love for him was more tell than show. Luna and Paul constantly said they had feelings for each other and love each other but there wasn’t many moments that showed Lunas feelings.
I recommend this book to anyone that enjoys reading cozy books.
Thank you to NetGalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review!
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