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Puffin Island #2

The Lighthouse Daughters of Puffin Island

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'Full of warmth' #1 Sunday Times Bestseller Katie FfordeA blast from her past…

Having narrowly avoided losing everything to her romance scammer ex, artist Delilah Waters is done with men and focused entirely on her quest to buy Puffin Island’s magical lighthouse. It’s a crucial piece of her own family’s history and the perfect space to turn into her home. But then Max Harrington walks through her door.

…puts her future in question.

Her feelings for her former art teacher might have been forbidden at the time, but now he’s back, and single, and there’s no denying that the attraction is mutual! But when something seems too good to be true, it normally is, and Dilly soon makes a shocking discovery that changes everything for her and Max. Now she’ll have to call upon the same fortitude as her beloved lighthouse if she’s to weather the storm headed her way…

Readers have fallen in love with The Lighthouse emotive and engaging from start to finish. Christie Barlow is one of my go-to authors and the latest addition to her new series is fantastic' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'This is a fabulous continuation of the Puffin Island series … heartwarming and uplifting … I love the Puffin Island community' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'When you receive a new Christie Barlow novel, it immediately goes to the top of the TBR pile. I could not put this book down' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'If you are already a fan of this author, this one will be another hit with you. If you have not read any of her books then what better place to start, than a visit to Puffin Island' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

Praise for the Puffin Island most wholesome, heartwarming, enchanting read … would highly recommend' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'Christie Barlow never fails to capture the characters and bring them to life' ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'Christie draws you in and you never want to leave!'⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'Absolutely gorgeous! Love the setting, love the characters … Highly recommended!'⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'Christie Barlow you've done it again … Brilliant!'⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

'Puffin Island has a community we all wish to be a part of. Can't wait for the next visit'⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

353 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 28, 2025

119 people are currently reading
187 people want to read

About the author

Christie Barlow

41 books434 followers
Author Girl - published by One More Chapter @HarperCollinsUK

Christie Barlow is the international bestselling author of twelve romantic comedies including the iconic Love Heart Lane Series, A Home at Honeysuckle Farm and Kitty's Countryside Dream. She lives in a ramshackle cottage in a quaint village in the heart of Staffordshire with her four children and two dogs.
Her writing career has come as a lovely surprise when Christie decided to write a book to teach her children a valuable life lesson and show them that they are capable of achieving their dreams. Christie's dream was to become a writer and the book she wrote to prove a point went on to become a #1 international bestseller in the UK, USA, Canada and Australia.
When Christie isn't writing she enjoys playing the piano, is a keen gardener and loves to paint and upcycle furniture.
Christie is an ambassador for the @ZuriProject alongside Patron of the charity, Emmerdale's Bhasker Patel. They raise money and awareness for communities in Uganda.
Christie loves to hear from her readers and you can get in touch via Twitter, Facebook and Instagram.
Twitter - @ChristieJBarlow
Facebook - Christie Barlow Author
Instagram - christie_barlow
www.christiebarlow.com

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Displaying 1 - 30 of 71 reviews
Profile Image for Sheila.
3,091 reviews123 followers
February 2, 2025
I received a free copy of, The Lighthouse Daughters of Puffin Island, by Christie Barlow, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. Delilah Waters, does not need a man, right now her main focus is trying to buy, Puffin Island Lighthouse. This book has a lot going on in it, I really liked this book, Christie Barlow, is a really good author.
Profile Image for ItaPixie.
1,273 reviews148 followers
June 29, 2025

The Lighthouse Daughters of Puffin Island is the second book in the Puffin Island series, but it could be read as a standalone.

Christie Barlow has the skill of making me adore whatever she writes, this book was no exception.
It’s so easy to get caught up into her writing and storytelling that I feel at home between the page of her books.

Dilly is an artist and a gallery owner on Puffin Island. She is also proud to be the grandaughter of a late lighthouse keeper, so when the island's lighthouse is put on sale she convinces herself it should be hers.
After a bad breakup she swore off all men, but when she meets her former college professor, Max, will she be ready to reevaluate her choices?

I really liked Dilly. She is tenacious and determined, and even if she was guarded around men, I was happy to see her to open up with a good man like Max. Their relationship is fast and easy, they have art as a common interest and through that they get closer, and they show their kindness and support.

I can highly recommend this enjoyable novel. It has the right amount of humour, drama and intrigue.


Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for kindly giving me an advanced copy of this book to read.

Profile Image for Hannah.
600 reviews118 followers
May 11, 2025
The second in a fantastic series of books. Could easily be read as standalone if wanted to.

This one was even better than the first one for me. Every little small annoyances I had with Verity did not happen with Dilly. She's so kind, likeable and a free spirit. Max equally matched this energy.

Max and Dilly met when he taught her art some years ago. Even though he was not much older and unhappily married no boundaries were crossed. On the latest meeting everything is different and it shows some of the best romances are on shared history and friendship.

Max is an incredible guy how he's come out of his tramusing marriage and how he deals with the blows of Giles. He's almost perfect but not too perfect or you wouldn't like him as much.

Fantastic story including the love the island, lighthouses and art with so much history
Profile Image for Cindy Spear.
599 reviews46 followers
January 10, 2025
What a beautiful new series by Christie Barlow set in the gorgeous seaside location of fictional Puffin Island! Book two focuses on the historic lighthouse, with its fascinating history, and the past and present people that surround it! This is such a moving story that captured my attention from the first paragraph to the very last. Artist Delilah and art teacher Max are central to the plot and they are both delightful characters with so much to offer their community. They each have had their troubles and suffered from horrible romantic relationships. But they get their second chance at happiness and fulfilment when their paths cross again after many years. But when dreamy sparks fly between them, reality waltzes in and tries to steal their joyful reunion.

There is so much to love about The Lighthouse Daughters of Puffin Island with its heart-warming romance, twists and turns drama, fascinating mystery and endearing community members. There are some wonderful surprises that happen in these breathtaking surrounds and art flows freely inspired by this sea haven atmosphere. The lighthouse descriptions are stunning and it is so easy to picture its idyllic location. Be assured, though, there are rough bumps for the characters along the way with a couple of nasty villains stirring up trouble. Through them, tough topics are addressed. Such as the positive and negative effects of both social and news medias, spousal abuse, the effects of grief after losing a parent, romance scammers, business ventures that include art, teaching, lighthouse and boat-restoration. Then there are student-teacher relationships, sudden fame and the nastiness of domestic violence.

Delilah Waters is a talented artist who rose to sudden fame once her work was featured on Netflix. After the tragic death of her mother, her inheritance becomes public knowledge which sets her up for a romance scammer to target her. He is a charmer and convinces her of his affections. She falls for him but when he begins making strange demands, she suspects something is wrong. Unfortunately not soon enough for an incidence to occur. Though he does not succeed, he still crashes her life. But she returns to her roots on Puffin Island, and turns to her wonderful dad and best friend for support. Her art business is booming and the Lighthouse is up for sale. She must bid on it as her family’s history is tied up in this historic treasure. And as a bonus, Max, her former art teacher (who is only a few years older than her and the man of her dreams) walks back into her life. He has had some drastic changes occur. He has taken on a job with her father and is no longer married. His story gradually unfolds which deepens our interest in this man, who seems to be a wonderful human being. Until one day something happens that makes us and Delilah wonder: if she has been played once again?

This journey for Delilah and Max, (and others) is both exciting and disheartening at times. But things have a way of working out. And besides these romantic relationships to focus on, there is a wonderful mystery in The Lighthouse Daughters of Puffin Island that keeps us turning the pages for another reason. I must say, the title and cover are so appropriate for this beautiful tale. And I cannot wait to read the next book of the series. I have loved all of Christie’s novels I have read (even though I have not read them all yet!) as she delivers warm, hearth-fire feel-good fiction. I enjoy these enticing escapes that always cheer the weary heart. And be assured, this one will put a smile on your face and have you dreaming of romantic lighthouses! Without question, this novel deserves 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to One More Chapter and Netgalley for a review copy.
Profile Image for The Book Review Café.
870 reviews238 followers
January 8, 2025
Christie Barlow has crafted yet another gem with The Lighthouse Daughters of Puffin Island, a story brimming with warmth, emotion, and heartfelt connections. This is the second book in the series, but readers can easily enjoy it as a standalone. Christie Barlow writes so descriptively that she brings her locations and characters vividly to life. Two books in, and I’m in love with Puffin Island and its close-knit community—I now want to live in a lighthouse!

I adored Delilah Waters’ story. She has sworn off men since her encounter with her scammer ex but is eager to buy Puffin Island’s lighthouse, a crucial piece of her family’s history. Her attraction to Max Harrington is obvious to all. However, the path of true love never runs smoothly, with secrets, doubts, heartbreak, and shocking revelations along the way. Readers will fall in love with Max, especially once they learn his heartbreaking backstory.

The romantic aspects are an integral part of the story, but they are complemented by a rich tapestry of themes. Christie Barlow’s authentic and warm portrayal of characters like Delilah and Max made me feel deeply connected to them. Her attention to character development ensures that each character feels like an old friend rather than just a name on a page. Familiar faces from the previous book reappear, providing a sense of continuity that is often lacking in many series.

As with all of Christie Barlow’s books, The Lighthouse Daughters of Puffin Island explores themes of community, family, friendship, personal growth, love, resilience, and grief, blending real-life struggles with heartfelt connections. In case you haven’t guessed, I loved this book—it’s a heartwarming tale that left me completely satisfied. Roll on the next instalment!


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Profile Image for Wendy(Wendyreadsbooks) Robey.
1,480 reviews71 followers
March 21, 2025
Puffin Island is the most idyllic setting for a story and getting to know Dilly and Max just wonderful.
This is the second in the series from Christie Barlow and I’ve been totally absorbed in this one.
The history of the lighthouse and its keepers is fascinating and I’ve loved learning more about the community and all its secrets.
The chemistry between Dilly and Max was obvious from the start and I enjoyed seeing them both have a second chance in life with the support from the friend and community.
Another cracker from Christie Barlow and I can’t wait to see what’s next.
Profile Image for Stephie.
2 reviews1 follower
March 11, 2025
I loved reading this - it was hard for me to put down. Can’t wait for the next one in the series
Profile Image for Lynne Aubrey.
200 reviews3 followers
April 9, 2025
I just absolutely love the Puffin Island books.
Just an easy read with wonderful characters set in beautiful place.
Can't wait to read more.
Profile Image for Cheryl Briggs.
225 reviews
July 28, 2025
Easy to read story set on a perfect island.
Dilly was a likeable character, Max was a bit too good to be true.
Looking forward to next book.
Profile Image for Karen Stallman .
882 reviews98 followers
April 29, 2025
The Lighthouse Daughters of Puffin Island by Christie Barlow. What can I say other than I loved it and read in one day.

The setting of Puffin Island, with its stunning surroundings and strong sense of community, creates a warm and inviting atmosphere. The characters are well-developed and multi-dimensional, making it easy to become invested in their stories.

The book has multiple sub-plots that keep you engaged and curious about the outcome. At its core, it's a story about resilience, friendship, and love, as the protagonist navigates a journey of self-discovery after facing significant challenges.

I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading more from this author. I highly recommend this author and series.


I requested and received an advance reader copy of this book from One More Chapter and Netgalley. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Jen.
1,695 reviews62 followers
February 2, 2025
Two books in and I am well and truly addicted. There is just something so wholesome about tucking into a Christie Barlow novel, and in this second visit to Puffin Island, I found myself completely engaged by Dilly's story and so very happy to be back in this wonderfully supportive and positive community. That's not to say that the book isn't teaming with emotion too - it wouldn't be a Christie Barlow book without those moments that tug at the heartstrings after all. And this book is no exception, with a poignant and tragic moment occurring just moments into the story. But it is that early scene that sets us up for what is to come, and for establishing just why the Puffin Island lighthouse is so dear to Dilly's heart. I was completely and truly hooked, and just ate up what followed.

This is Delilah's, or rather Dilly's, story. The Island's resident artist, Dilly has very strong family ties to the lighthouse - her mother was born there. She has a desire to buy the landmark and create a studio space for artists, as well as making it her own home. But it's fair to say that the idea of owning the lighthouse is not the only thing setting Dilly's mind a whirl. A face from her past arrives on the island and is set to stir things up well and truly in Dilly's private life. Dilly is a wonderful person to spend time with, and a perfect centre for this book's story. She is open, engaging and the kind of character it is impossible not to like. And the chemistry between her and her former tutor, Max, is abundantly clear and just pulls you right into the story. It's not plain sailing, and some things from their past, Max's especially, serve to add that edge of conflict that you expect, if only to make it's resolution all the more satisfying.

And that is just what you'd expect from this series. An emotional journey, both romantically and nostalgically, teaming characters who hold a real appeal, and a community that the author manages to make readers feel a part of. There is something magical about the way in which Christie Barlow paints the island life, and in just a short time she has already established a cast of characters I feel completely at home with and invested in the lives of. From Dilly and Max, through to island stalwart, Betty, who has been quite central to all of the series stories so far, I am getting that really warm and welcoming vibe that made the author's Love Heart Lane series so totally addictive. And I love the setting. Based on a part of the country which holds a place in my heart, and lord knows I love a puffin, Christie Barlow has once again created a place where I just want to visit. Idyllic, tranquil and with a true community spirit, how could you not?

Pure heartwarming escapism. A story that is full of emotion, laughter, and brilliant characters. I can't wait to pay a return visit to Puffin Island to see what this wonderful bunch get up to next. Definitely recommended.
Profile Image for Yvonne.
1,747 reviews136 followers
January 4, 2025
Oh my goodness what a wonderful story this one was. As soon as it landed on my Kindle I got settled to read it and didn't stop until I had finished.

Once again the author has created a fabulous storyline with a wonderful backdrop of the Lighthouse and Puffin Island. Even though this is only the second visit to the island I know I want to visit again. Some of the characters that were mentioned in the first book, and also the locations are again mentioned so this helps to reinforce the sense of friendship and community on the island.

The Lighthouse is the focus and it starts with quite an emotional introduction to the lighthouse, and the weather and gives the basis for the story to follow.

Dilly lives on the island and her connection to the Lighthouse is very simple, it was where her mother was born and her grandfather lost his life. So when the lighthouse comes up for sale she is immediately interested.

The lighthouse is not the only thing from her past, her art teacher from college has arrived and is now working for her father. Max was a huge influence in Dilly's life at college and gave her the confidence that she needed.

I think this story is such a fabulous one, and not for the immediately obvious reasons. Yes, there is the community, Dilly's family, the many friends, the history of Puffin Island and the lighthouse, but there is something more serious that is mentioned. I won't mention what these are, but I do think the author has tackled them well and in a way that shows the graveness and the serious nature of events that have happened to both Dilly and Max.

This is an emotional read and there are several threads that are woven throughout the book, there are secrets that need to be released and some shocking revelations that make not only the characters take a pause, but also this reader!

If you are already a fan of this author then I know this one will be another hit with you. If however, you have not read any of her books then what better place to start than a visit to Puffin Island. The first book is brilliant, this book is brilliant and obviously I would definitely recommend them.
Profile Image for Connie.
2,497 reviews62 followers
March 1, 2025
It was in 1950 that Selby gave birth to a little girl, Eva, in the midst of a huge storm. Her husband, Mack, the lighthouse keeper was washed away in that storm. Selby worked hard to bring up her little daughter.

Today, Ava’s daughter, Dilly, has become a very talented artist having won many awards and has sold a number of her painting. While she was in art school, she was impressed with her teacher, Max Harrington. Not only was he handsome, but he encouraged her art.

Today, Dilly’s parents have been divorced and her mother remarried. It was when the couple was on a trip, that a car ran off the road pushing them into the sea and washing them away. Dilly grieves the loss of her beautiful mother.

Dilly had been in a relationship with Giles who turned out to be a scammer only after women’s money.

Max has moved to Puffin island and is working for Dilly’s father in his boat repair business. She is surprised to find that he had married a very wealthy but extremely manipulative woman and is divorcing her.

Dilly has just learned that the lighthouse is going to be auctioned off and she wants to bid on it. She has plans to turn it into a gallery on the bottom floor and live in the upstairs rooms.

As her plans escalate, something surprising happens in her life and changes it. it turns out that it’s for the good, but there may be some stumbling blocks to overcome along the way.

I enjoyed this story and found it to be heartwarming especially with the close friendships of the residents of Puffin Island. I highly recommend this book. This is only the fourth book I have read by this author and now I will be on the lookout to read more. She is very talented and knows how to pen stories of great friendship and beautiful scenery.

Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Profile Image for Sharon.
2,041 reviews
March 15, 2025
This is book #2 in the Puffin Island series. Whilst it is part of a series, it can easily be read as a standalone book. I never thought this author could come up with a better series than the Love Heart Lane books, but two books into the Puffin Island series and I’m hooked! We are back on the Island and get to meet Dilly Waters. Dilly is an Island girl and because of her family connections to the Lighthouse, when it comes up for sale, she knows she has to buy it. She’s been unlucky in love recently, but when Max, a face from the past, arrives on the Island, will that all change?

This was a lovely read. Straight away, I found myself hooked into Dilly’s story and it was a delight to back on Puffin Island. The story begins in a flashback to the night that Dilly’s mother was born in the Lighthouse and then we move back to present day to follow Dilly’s life. I really liked her character and admired her determination in purchasing the Lighthouse and running her Gallery, all on her own! Her relationship with Max was cute and romantic, and all the other Islanders (who we have met in the previous book) were fun and supportive in their friendships with Dilly. They all showed a great sense of community spirit and rallied round when it was needed.

The location sounded absolutely wonderful, and as I read, I could picture the Lighthouse with the stunning backdrop of Puffin Island. I could just image the Lighthouse when it was renovated, and was really jealous that I couldn’t live there as well!! This was such an easy read, and whilst it was lighthearted for most of the time, it also had some more emotional moments running through Dilly’s story. It was a warming read which you won’t want to put down until you’ve finished. Lovely characters, an amazing location and the perfect romantic storyline. Would definitely recommend.

Profile Image for Tia.
34 reviews5 followers
January 20, 2025
The Lighthouse Daughters of Puffin Island by Christie Barlow is one of those cozy, feel-good reads that makes you want to curl up with a cup of tea and a blanket. Set on this beautiful, windswept island, the story pulls you in with its mix of family drama, romance, and a touch of mystery.

The characters are what really drew me in. There’s something really relatable about them—especially the women trying to navigate their pasts and figure out where they belong. The lighthouse itself kind of becomes a character, too, guiding them (and us) through the ups and downs of life. I loved how the setting is so atmospheric, with the island feeling both charming and a little isolated, which fits the characters' journeys.

It’s definitely a romance, but it’s also about personal growth, healing, and figuring out your place in the world. That part felt really real, especially with how the characters face challenges and learn to open up to one another. If you’re into stories where characters find love and redemption (even if it’s a bit predictable at times), this one will hit the spot.

That said, it’s not exactly groundbreaking—some parts of the plot felt a little familiar, and if you’ve read other books like this, you’ll probably guess where things are headed. But honestly, that didn’t bother me too much. Sometimes, you just want that heartwarming story where everything falls into place.

If you're a fan of romantic, small-town (or small-island!) vibes with a dash of family drama and healing, this book is definitely worth picking up. It’s the kind of book you want to read when you need a little escape to a beautiful, peaceful place.


Profile Image for Katie.
47 reviews2 followers
February 15, 2025
The Lighthouse Daughters of Puffin Island by Christie Barlow is the perfect cozy read for anyone looking to escape to a charming, windswept island filled with romance, family drama, and a dash of mystery. I found myself completely immersed in the story, which follows Dilly's quest to buy the lighthouse and her evolving relationship with her former art teacher, Max Harrington.

What really stood out to me was the sense of community on Puffin Island. The interactions between Dilly, her best friends, her father, and the delightful Betty added so much warmth to the story. Max, with his kindness and compassion, is an especially relatable character, and the way he and Dilly work through their pasts together makes for a beautiful and heartfelt romance, free of unnecessary drama.

While there are a few familiar plot elements, the charm of the setting and the emotional depth of the characters kept me hooked. The book balances a gentle romance with themes of personal growth and healing, and while the ending may be predictable, it’s exactly what you want when you're in the mood for an uplifting, feel-good story.

Though it's the second in the series, The Lighthouse Daughters works as a standalone, and I really appreciated being able to jump into this book without needing to know the full backstory from the first. That being said, it has definitely left me wanting to read more, and I’m excited for the next story!

If you love small-town (or small-island) settings with heartwarming characters and a bit of mystery, this one is a must-read!
Profile Image for Kirsty.
159 reviews1 follower
February 24, 2025
The Lighthouse Daughters of Puffin Island by Christie Barlow 🐚

'Having narrowly avoided losing everything to her romance scammer ex, Dilly Waters is done with men and focused entirely on her quest to buy Puffin Island's magical lighthouse. It's a crucial piece of her own family's history and the perfect space to turn into her home. But then Max Harrington walks through her door.

Her feelings for her former art teacher might have been forbidden at the time, but now he's back, and single, and there's no denying that the attraction is mutual! But when something seems too good to be true, it normally is, and Dilly soon makes a shocking discovery that changes everything...'

My thoughts 💭

This was a truly refreshing romance read. The storyline flowed beautifully and I loved the way that Dilly and Max didn't mess around long with their obvious feelings for each other. They were all in pretty quickly, albeit with a few bumps along the way 😉

Set in a idyllic location with lots of interesting, and quirky characters, with a great sense of community, and a lovely family history storyline playing out alongside a fast-paced romance made for an uplifting and heart-warming read.

True friendship, fun, family bonds and a hefty dose of romance all rolled into one story that swept me away 🌊

This is the second book in The Puffin Island series, and although I haven't read book one, I found this book totally enjoyable and can absolutely be read as a standalone book.

Thank you so much @onemorechapterhc for gifting me this beautiful book 🩷
3,728 reviews42 followers
February 21, 2025
🌊🚩A bit of drama, but all to the good😊

A great, romantic and feel-good continuation to a lovely romance series with a bit of small-town mystery about it. Dilly the renowned artist of all things puffin and Puffin Island gets a chance to take back the positive momentum in her life after romantic disappointment with a deceiving scam artist and, boy, does she go for it! In her the author has created a really positive, energetic spirit with artistry and a head for business who has such a clearly defined vision for her future.

The man of the hour, Max, is a fellow artist with some hardship in a former relationship that puts him on a new life course working at Dilly's dad's boathouse. It's not a complete coincidence he ended up in Dilly's hometown. Both he and Dilly have secrets that need to come out. The romance is closed door (fine from my perspective) and has enough hiccups to create a nice degree of drama.

Dilly's family and their tie to the Puffin Island Lighthouse offers a degree of tragedy and mystery that I thought added to the story (though it wasn't hard to guess the basics from the hints the author sprinkled in). And Betty, the unofficial island keeper of history and secrets, acts a bit mysterious and throws a cropper that astonishes just about everybody.

Good characters, good plot, good read.

Thanks to HarperCollins/One More Chapter and NetGalley for sharing a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
Profile Image for Book Escapes Babs.
652 reviews26 followers
February 22, 2025
It was terrific to return to Puffin Island and catch up with some of the delightful characters that I met in the first book. Delilah, or Dilly as she’s known, featured in the first book but she wasn’t the main focus. This time, she is centre stage as the story revolves around her mother’s birth and her grandfather’s untimely demise. Those opening passages certainly set the tone for dealing with a tragic loss.
Moving into the present day, Dilly is surprised to discover that her former college art tutor, Max Harrington, has moved to the island and has taken a job working on boat restoration with her father. We soon learn that Dilly had a crush on him but was respectful of his job and her position as a student. Now, there are no rules, and it is soon apparent that the attraction is mutual. Dilly is a lovely person, and I was definitely hoping that she would find romance with her former tutor. He certainly sounded gorgeous from the descriptions. Dilly, however, is apprehensive as she’s just escaped from a toxic relationship that almost cost her the inheritance from her mother’s passing.
At the heart of the story is Dilly’s connection to the Lighthouse on the Island. Now decommissioned, it’s up for sale and she has a vision that sees her converting the ground floor into a gallery and then using her existing gallery space for workshops. The life drawing class brings a welcome dose of hilarity and a reason to smile. Her vision for the future is certainly an enviable one.
This novel is written with all the warmth and kindness that have become synonymous with Christie Barlow’s books. There’s something included for every reader, and the conundrum of whether Max is exactly who he seems to be is a theme throughout the story and adds a layer of suspense.
I loved reading this book, and I love the series. I can heartily recommend it.
Profile Image for Colin Bell.
1,062 reviews13 followers
February 25, 2025
This is the second book in the series, I haven't read the first one yet although it's languishing in my TBR list, something that I will have to correct. Delilah narrowly avoided being scammed by a romance con artist after her mother's inheritance and is just concentrating on her art gallery. She has the opportunity to purchase the Lighthouse, which has played an integrity last of her family's history. Things are thrown into disarray when her former art teacher Max appears at the gallery, she had always had feelings for him but as he was her teacher and married had never acted upon these.
The author always manages to create idyllic settings with a strong sense of community and this series is no exception. There are disadvantages in that secrets are impossible to keep, but also advantages when support is desperately needed as Delilah discovers. A warm, cozy book with just a hint of suspense to read on a winter's night or in the sun by the pool. 4.5* rounded up to 5* and I'm definitely looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
Profile Image for Helen Haythornthwaite.
215 reviews7 followers
March 5, 2025
What a thoroughly enjoyable book this was! It’s such a heart-warming read, set in a small community and that community spirit is second to none. There is a lot going on but I’m just going to give you a taste for it as I’d love you to discover Dilly’s story for yourself.

I loved meeting Dilly and watching her dreams and aspirations be realised. It wasn’t a smooth journey for her but it was lovely to see the support she had from friends and family who were all such fabulous characters.

Dilly’s art gallery and painting studio sound divine and combined with her friend’s cosy tearoom serving delicious cakes and pancakes, it transported me to a haven full of warmth and peace. Add to that a rather dishy art teacher, Max, and you have a love story waiting to unfold.

I thoroughly enjoyed this visit to Puffin Island which is an absolutely gorgeous setting for a book. The idea of living so close to the sea is very appealing - whether it’s enjoying the views in the sunshine or snuggling by the fire during a storm. I was totally immersed in the descriptions of the lighthouse - with its beautiful views - that I wouldn’t mind living in one myself after reading this!

Profile Image for Jenn Webley.
401 reviews41 followers
January 5, 2025
Warm, emotive and engaging from start to finish. Christie Barlow is one of my go to authors and the latest addition to her new series is fantastic.

I love the communities and characters Christie creates within her books- the type you wish you could escape to yourself, Puffin Island is another wonderful example of one of those places! We’ve met the characters in the previous book (A Postcard from Puffin Island) and already feel like they are our own friends so have a vested interest in their lives. Quick note to say you could read this as a standalone but I recommend reading ALL of Christie’s books.

Dilly’s story gives us history, hope, desire and passion; romance of course but passion for the things and people she holds close. There are unexpected surprises, heart warming reunions and it is all written with warmth and care.

I knew as soon as I started reading, the cosy comfort I was seeking would be between the pages of this story. It’s not even out yet and I cannot wait for the next.
Profile Image for Bec.
787 reviews17 followers
January 21, 2025
The Lighthouse Daughters of Puffin Island was a heartwarming feel-good story focussing on Dilly, her quest to purchase the lighthouse and her feelings for her old Art teacher, Max Harrington.

I particularly enjoyed the dynamics between the residents of Puffin Island. The story beautifully captures the strong sense of community, highlighted by Dilly's close relationships with her best friends, her father, and the ever-charming Betty.

Max was a standout character—kind, compassionate, and relatable. Both he and Dilly grapple with unresolved wounds from their pasts, but their journey of healing together is refreshingly free of unnecessary angst, adding depth to their romance.

This story offers a delightful mix of mystery, history, romance, and unexpected surprises.

Although it’s the second book in the series, it would work perfectly as a standalone (although the first book is worth reading so I sugget you do). Many thanks to NetGalley and One More Chapter for providing an advanced copy for review!
164 reviews3 followers
February 28, 2025
I had read the first book in the series but that had been my first one from Christie Barlow - I really enjoyed the first book but felt that the author had settled into her writing style for this series and I felt it benefitted this book.
Although this is book number 2 it is not necessary to have read the first one although of course context for the characters is much better if one had.

Delilah - known as Dilly - was a successful artist in her own right - but due to an inheritance decided to buy Puffin Island Lighthouse where her mother had been born on the day her grandfather died.
Dilly had been at art college and had fallen for her tutor but he was out of bounds as he was married. He arrived on Puffin Island looking for Dilly and romance was kindled.

This was an easy read with characters that are developing - but there was plenty to keep one’s interest and want to wait for the next book in the series.

A lovely well written book - contemporary themes of online dating scammers was dealt with well
Profile Image for Claire.
1,862 reviews16 followers
January 4, 2025
When you receive a new Christie Barlow novel, it immediately goes to the top of the TBR pile. The Lighthouse Daughters of Puffin Island is the second book in the series and this one focuses on Delilah Waters. After being the victim of a romance scam, she has vowed to stay away from men and instead focuses on her quest to buy Puffin Island Lighthouse. It’s part of her family’s history and she’d love to make it her home. But the gorgeous Max Harrington arrives and it seems there is a mutual attraction. Will it be true love for Delilah, or will shocking discovery change everything?

I could not put this book down and adored Delilah’s character. This book is written with such warmth that you are instantly captivated. The setting, the plot and the characters are all wrapped up into a fantastic novel. I can’t wait to return to Puffin Island for book three. Thank you to NetGalley, Harper Collins UK One More Chapter and the author for the chance to review.
Profile Image for Jane Hunt.
Author 3 books114 followers
March 4, 2025
Dilly has succeeded as an artist and is happy to give back to the community that raised her; when the old lighthouse with family connections comes up for sale, she has to have it. Dilly's emotional past is full of angst and heartbreak, but meeting Max again may change that. I enjoyed my return to Puffin Island and Dilly's engaging story. It has definite echoes from the past that drive Dilly's need to buy the old lighthouse, and it's a poignant story filled with hope and love. Dilly is a likeable and strong protagonist, and Max is a warm character she knows from her past. Their romance has plenty of conflict, but their connection is compelling, and I believe in them. The family drama and history are complex and tragic but add heartwarming events to this lovely story. I like the community setting, the historical echoes reflected in the present and the cast of relatable characters who give this story its authenticity and charm.
I received a copy of this story from the publisher.
Profile Image for Ann-Maree.
1,105 reviews10 followers
February 28, 2025
The Lighthouse Daughters of Puffin Island
by Christie Barlow

Delilah Waters is determined to solely focus on her quest to purchase Puffin Island’s magical lighthouse, an essential part of her family’s history and the ideal setting for her future home and business. However, her plans take an unexpected turn when Max Harrington walks through her door.

This captivating tale weaves together a heartwarming romance, unexpected plot twists, and gripping drama, all intertwined with a compelling mystery. The vibrant community members add depth and charm to the story making the island come alive with warmth and camaraderie. From the moment I started reading, I was swept away—I simply couldn’t put it down. The storyline flowed seamlessly, drawing me into its rich tapestry of emotion and connection.
Profile Image for Rachel Gilbey.
3,324 reviews571 followers
May 4, 2025
OMG Christie Barlow has done it again. and written a totally unputdownable, completely devourable book, that I couldn't' get enough of.

I am absolutely adoring this new Puffin Island series so far, catching up with recurring characters and meeting new ones.

And this is a book that opens with high drama that had me instantly intrigued and drawn in, and that ends with me almost in tears at such a gorgeous ending.

In between we have even more fabulousness, as Dilly and Max start to get to know each other.

This is a very moving and poignant story in places, while being heartwarming and addictive in others. I just can't get enough of any of these characters. Just brilliant.

Thank you to One More Chapter and Netgalley for this copy which I have reviewed honestly and voluntarily.
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