Home to Nantucket

Island Whispers #1

by Megan Jacobs

An unexpected homecoming, a cryptic note, an explosive family secret...

Rejected at sixteen, concert violinist Melinda Hemsfield never thought she’d set foot in Nantucket again.

But when an urgent plea from her estranged mother forces her to return, she’s thrown into a world of painful memories and unresolved emotions.

Her homecoming takes a dark turn when the alluring caretaker, Logan Brown, delivers a devastating blow—her mother has died suddenly, leaving behind more questions than answers.

Just when she thinks the worst is behind her, Melinda and her sisters stumble upon a cryptic note hinting at a shocking secret from their mother’s past, one that could shatter the fragile ties holding the family together.

The sisters face an agonizing choice: dig deeper and risk tearing their family apart or leave the past buried and live forever with unanswered questions.

As tension mounts, Melinda must decide if she has the strength to confront the painful truths, mend broken bonds, and embrace the possibility of new love with Logan.

Lose yourself in the Island Whispers Romance Series beginning with Home to Nantucket, a small-town clean romance that combines family drama, newfound love, and surprise twists. Perfect for fans of Hope Holloway, Jan Moran, and Rachel Hanna.

Genres: Womens Fiction, Romance

168 pages, Paperback

Published August 28, 2024

Reviews

[Linda · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story centered around Melinda and her sisters. They return to Nantucket, where they grew up. Melinda hasn't been home for years and her mother's summons was unexpected, as well as what she finds when she arrives.

The sisters start to bond over their grief and as they sort through all the things left in their childhood home.

Logan was unexpected also, and she grows more and more curious about him.

The book description is pretty accurate, if it sounds interesting, I think you will enjoy the book too .

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Yolanda Goodwin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Home to Nantucket is a mixture of genres. So if you love mysteries, romance, and or romance, look no further, because this is the book for you.

Melinda Hemsfield (Lindy) is a professional violinist. She had an unimaginable childhood, and left home at sixteen vowing never to return to Nantucket.

When her estranged mother asked her to return home to perform, she was hesitant, but something in her mother's voice sounded desperate.

When she arrived, she was shocked at what awaited her. The cliffhanger is even more mysterious.

Megan Jacobs doesn't waste time , she hooks you one page one. She's very talented, and she never disappoints. I highly recommend this book, because you'll not be able to put it down.


I received an arc copy via the author. This is my honest and voluntary review.

[Prismseven · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story is a nice start to a new series about several sisters finding love, coming together as a family and solving an unknown mystery. The characters are interesting but could use more personality depth. The storyline is good but could be great with more content added. The story can be enjoyed in an afternoon. I’m looking forward to reading the next book in the series.

I received an advanced copy of this book and am leaving my review voluntarily.

[Cath · Rating 4 out of 5]

This short story is an introduction to the Island Whispers Romance series and tells the tale of concert violinist Melinda Hemsfield, who has returned to the small island of her childhood for the first time since she left at sixteen, to play in a concert her mother has organised. Her estranged mother had sounded quite desperate to have her return and play, with a chance to make amends and peace with the past. When she turns up at her mother’s home, her childhood home, she is met by the caretaker and handyman, Logan Brown, who has to inform her that her mother had died suddenly that morning. She already made an unpleasant. He occasionally stayed in the home to keep her mother company, as she wasn’t in the best of health, something Melinda knew nothing of. Only her youngest sister, Mia, had been in regular contact with her mother, out of the five of them. Melinda checks with her mother’s lawyer, to find Mia is the executor and she can’t be told anything else. No one has contacted her other sisters yet, so she takes the difficult task for herself. Riley a web designer living in Ohio, Kristi, married with a young child, and Rebecca, who Melinda had a strained relationship with, even though they were only a couple of years in age apart. None of them lived on the Island, as they call it, most having left as soon as they could. All the house holds is bad memories for Melinda, especially of her drunken and abusive father, who seemed to pick on her and punish her for the slightest thing!

She had arrived early, a few weeks before the concert, to meet the conductor and practise, as well as speak with her mother, but that last chance has been taken from her. Logan is a big help in connecting her to some of her mother’s previous friends, with most currently knowing nothing about her recent years or why she kept such a solitary life, especially years after her husband had died. As the sisters all arrive, bit by bit, in time for the funeral, Melinda is left feeling that they all blame her still for leaving them at home, when she escaped. But she didn’t exactly escape, so much as get pushed out, as is explained later on! Mia is taken with how comfortable Logan is with Melinda, and suggests there is a spark there, however much Melinda tries to deny it. She has begun to realise how handsome and fit Logan is, but she has no intention of staying on the island that holds so many bad memories. Secrets from the past and the tenuous ties she holds with her sisters, bring more questions than answers as the sisters have to deal with clearing their mother’s home and dealing with what they might uncover. A touch of clean romance and mystery still to come from a secret within the music her mother wrote!

I received an ARC copy of this book from BookSprout, and I have freely given my own opinion of the book above.

[Kath · Rating 5 out of 5]

Melinda, the oldest of the Hemsfield sister and a well known violinist, is returning to Nantucket. Her mother, who asked her to come and play with an orchestra a piece she had written for a special concert to be held in a ballroom, in Nantucket. Melinda's trip on the ferry found her getting sick on Logan's new boots, unbeknownst to each other they were each heading to her mother's mansion. Upon Melinda's arrival Logan had gotten there ahead of her and met her at the door with grave news; her mother, Jacqueline, had passed.

Melinda went immediately to the lawyer, Mr. Thompson, and stated she'd be contacting her 4 sisters and they'd be in touch with him regarding the will, which Mia the youngest daughter sister was Power of Attorney. The sisters arrived over the next 3 days and they did their mother's wake. This whole time Melinda, Lindy, was heart sick as she was hoping to talk with her mom and try to clear up the past 20 years she's not ever come back home. Her mom sounded frantic and wanted her to play the solo violin concerto for Nantucket's concert. Lindy agreed and felt lost and she, along with her sisters tried to find answers in this big, beautiful home, mansion as to what all went on with their devious father, who especially mistreated Melinda and constantly hurt her emotionally and everything she loved got so bad her mom made her leave and not want to come back at the young age of 16. They never found any answers except for a note in their father's pocket in his handwriting that wrote I Know What You Did...

The concert was a spectacular performance by the orchestra, but especially by the solo violinist Melinda who played her mother's concerto. During the month's time that Melinda was staying she and Logan are getting more comfortable together and her sister's all came back for this performance. All making this a special and very emotional concert for Melinda in so many ways. The Hemsfield sisters met a young professor from the Ne England Convservatory of Music who came just to listen to their mother's concert per his invitation from Jacqueline before her passing.

I received an early copy for free, ARC, for my honest, free and voluntary review

[Katherine Hayward Pérez · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'm no stranger to Megan Jacobs' writing. I really enjoyed Lantern Cove, her previous series.

I was happy when I knew that she had another series out, and especially that it followed the lives of sisters Melinda, Mia, Riley, Kristi and Rebecca.

Home to Nantucket is atmospheric and realistic from the start. How will the sisters react to being back together after having gone about their lives for the past twenty years?

They are all very different people. The story is quick paced.

Home to Nantucket is about revisiting memories, where home really is, and who you can trust.

I really hated Melinda's experience with her father and how he treated her. I felt sad that she tried so hard to make him love her but to no avail. The way she was supported and loved by her mother is a real contrast to that.

I felt that Home to Nantucket was immediately gripping and immersive in terms of Melinda's character and her journey back home. It became the same for her sisters as the story was developed, in my opinion.

Some descriptive details were a little repetitive.

Megan Jacobs does a really good job of creating family relationships and making them realistic. She really makes you feel for the characters, and want to know what happens to them.

I'm so glad this is part of a new series and first book in a new series, so I can get the plot and backstory right from the beginning.

I'm looking forward to the next book.

Thanks to Megan Jacobs.

4 stars

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Texas · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ms. Jacobs' writes sweet romances with likeable characters and interesting story lines that are a fun and quick read. Instead of cutting a book into five pieces, this time around consists of a prequel and five novellas instead of pieces. Source: BookSprout.

HOME TO NANTUCKET - The first of a new series, which I found interesting and a quick read. I like the occupation of Melinda.

AFTER THE WAVE SERIES:
THE SISTERHOOD OF LANTERN COVE - An interesting introduction to five best friends whose friendships began in college. 4*

LANTERN COVE BEGINNINGS - Juniper's story filled with a bit of intrigue and a superhero. 5*

LANTERN COVE MEMORIES - Liliana James' story with an unusual, sad quest. 4*

LANTERN COVE REUNION - Danielle's story is my favorite. I like that there is an attraction but it was not instant love. The pace is enjoyable since a lot happens without an drama. 5*

LANTERN COVE HAVEN - I did not like Sera very much. I'm tired of "strong, independent" women who are automatically frightened or continously negative in their thoughts. I like that Grayson did not get angry when confessions were made. 3*
AFTER THE WAVE SERIES end.

[Lia Lorimer · Rating 5 out of 5]

If this book I received as an ARC from the author is any indication of the quality of Ms Jacobs’ latest series, it is also an indication that she has reached new heights of storytelling skills!
After a 20-year absence, and at her estranged mom’s request to perform during a music festival, Melinda reluctantly returns to Nantucket. A disastrous ferry trip is followed by unexpected and tragic news, from the very man she encountered during the crossing. Despite their adverse first impressions on the ferry, she finds a surprising ally in Logan who evidently works for her mother.
Melinda and her four sisters re-connect in their childhood home to try and find answers to their childhood traumas. The only puzzling aspect of the story so far is that Melinda has a fairly close relationship with most of her sisters, although she had apparently severed contact with her family when the youngest, Mia, was only four.

[Lilian · Rating 4 out of 5]

Melinda is finally back to Nantucket, her hometown, after almost twenty years. She is now a professional violinist and back to perform at the music festival, at her mom’s invitation.

The book starts off with an interesting meet-cute with Melinda making an “amazing” impression on Logan while onboard the ferry to Nantucket. And then boom, it turns out that her trip will not be what she expected it to be!

Soon, we learn more about her childhood and family secrets are revealed one by one. We are also introduced to her other sisters: Rebecca, Kristi, Riley and Mia. Primarily, this book is about Melinda’s journey towards accepting her past and learning to forgive. But Logan is a nice distraction as we navigate the truth together with the sisters.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Margaret Hejmanowski · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love all things Megan Jacobs and this does not disappoint, this is book one in The Island Whispers Romance series. Melinda Hemsfield is a concert violinist. She left home at sixteen and vowed never to return. Her estranged mother Jacqueline called with an urgent plea to ask her to perform at The Nantucket Music Festival, as a soloist. When Melinda arrives in Nantucket, she finds her mother had recently died. She must call all her sisters home: Mia the youngest, Riley, Kristi, and Rebecca. Each sister has a slightly different view of their childhood. They try to find any answers about their deceased drunken father. A mysterious Nolan Harris is at the concert, is their a secret held in the music that Melinda played that her mother wrote? Love the plot, great setting, and strong intense interesting characters. I can't wait to read the next book in the series!!!

[Vicki Stephens · Rating 5 out of 5]

Home to Nantucket is the first book in the Island Whispers Romance Series which focuses on Melinda/Lindy, a global professional violinist who was sent away by her mother from her abusive home at age sixteen, and Logan, who has been working at her mother's home providing care and house maintenance. Lindy agrees to come home after twenty years in order to play at the Nantucket Music Festival, but it is Logan who gives her the news that her mother has died when she arrives. Her other sisters come home for their mother's funeral and they all search for answers regarding their alcoholic father and dependent mother. This book has strong emotions, secrets, mystery, the beginning of a new romance, a cliffhanger, and a stranger with a secret code within her mother's music composition.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Sarah Seelbaugh · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book combines elements of romance and mystery, featuring intriguing characters. Melinda had a difficult childhood and left home at sixteen despite her mother's repeated pleas to return. Eventually, she did go back, drawn by her mother's persistence. Melinda finds solace in playing the violin, as music evokes deep emotions within her. Surprisingly, not only Melinda but also her four sisters return to Nantucket. The book ends on a suspenseful note, leaving readers eager to discover what lies ahead for Melinda and her sisters in the next installment. Megan Jacobs' books are captivating and effortless to read, making this one an enjoyable experience.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Claudete Takahashi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Home to Nantucket is an easy to read story about a dysfunctional family. Melinda a renowned violinist has finally come back to Nantucket after more than a decade without returning home. She came to attend her mother's plea to play in a concert and what she could not imagine was the harsh reality she'll have to face upon reaching the family home. All her questions will remain unanswered as her mother has passed away and she'll have to deal with her sisters with whom she doesn't have much affinity. Will things be worked out? Will they find at least some answers they need to move on?
I thank Ms. Jacobs for this ARC.

[Andrea Stoeckel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Secrets both good and bad

“Having answers is always better than not having them.”

Melinda has returned home to Nantucket to headline a concert her Mother had sponsored after decades away. However something has occurred that opens many doors to her and her sisters' past.

Growing up in an alcoholic world isn't an easy thing to do and it scars you for life. You search for ways to physically and emotionally escape. Will Melinda keep the ghosts at bay? Or are there other messages she must hear.

Brava Megan Jacobs! Another stunning opening to a series I can hardly wait to continue. Highly Recommended 5/5

[Megann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Melinda comes home to a place she never really called home but her mom has asked her to return to play the violin in the concert on Nantucket Island.
She really doesn't know why she said yes, but she hasn't been home for 20 years and decides that she should go home once before never going home again.
On the fairy ride over she throws up on Logan Brown a boy now a man who she knew when she lived here. Horrified she decides that things can't get any worse but never say never. Things can get much worse and do.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Britt Malka · Rating 5 out of 5]

Megan Jacobs writes the most amazing books. You get romance, lots of emotions and a good mystery.

The emotions in this book were both loyalty, love and a dark family secret.

I was hooked from page 2 and my eyes misted over when I read the ending.

The book has a completely satisfying ending with lose ends tied up. Except for one... the big mystery. And there is more to come in the next book of this series. I can't wait to read it.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[D. · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been waiting for a new series from Megan Jacobs. I loved the start of this story with Melinda the violinist. There is so much that she has already found out about her family's past making somethings fall into place. I wish I could have heard the symphony. It sounded like it was beautiful. I cannot wait for the next story because I want to know what the secret message is that her recently deceased mother left for her.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[GOLE · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read one of Megan Jacobs’ series before and really enjoyed that so looked forward to this new series. And I was not disappointed.

This is a romance with a touch of mystery. And this story ends on a bit of a cliffhanger. But not in terms of the romance, only the mystery.

The story is sweet and beautifully written. Highly recommend.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Suze82 · Rating 4 out of 5]

with a bang
This new series really starts off with a bang, Melissa surely often wished she hadn´t returned home because not only does she have to face unpleasant memories from the past but new secrets to be solved are added to the family problems. I loved the small town setting and I can´t wait to read what will happen next.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

Melinda hasn’t been back home in 20 years, her mother convinced her to come back home. Returning to Nantucket Melinda learns her mother has just died, leaving behind many questions that Melinda wants answers to. Will Melinda find the answers? A gripping page turner that you will find hard to put down and finding it hard to wait for the next book –Secrets on Nantucket.
I received an ARC copy of Home to Nantucket, this is my honest review.

[Kathy Dryden · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the first book of Megan's new series, and it starts off leaving a lot of unanswered questions. Melinda left home at 16 at her mother's insistence. Her father was abusive. She returned home 20 years later a concert violinist, at the request of her mother, and hoped to find some answers. Unfortunately, this was not to be. This is a great book of sadness, joy, and hope, with a lot of mystery scattered throughout.
I look forward to book 2.

[Jane litherland · Rating 5 out of 5]

Melinda/ Lindy is a professional violinist receives an heartfelt plea from her mum to return home to Nantucket. A heap of pain isn’t all that awaits on her homecoming.Cryptic notes and unresolved memories and emotions.when she gets to town Logan Brown tells her that her mother has past…along with her sisters she finds a cryptic note full of mystery and secrets. Good writing and characters are well written too.

[Jacqueline Johnston Cotton · Rating 5 out of 5]

An interesting and addicting new series! This book takes you on a journey of loss, grief, secrets, love, hope and some difficult family situations that will have you turning the pages to see what's going to happened next. I couldn’t put it down as it pulled me in and kept my attention. The characters are so relatable, emotional and real. I can’t wait to read the next book in this series.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tami Willard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Coming home for the first time in years she's hit with some shocking news. Her and her sisters now are left with a lot of questions, and the person with all of the answers is gone. Will they find the answers anyway? How do they react to those that they do find?.

I received a copy of this book from the author. Review voluntarily given.

[Dianna · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an exciting and interesting start if a new series. Sisters coming together in light of a tragedy and looking for answers to so many questions. Had lots of mystery and suspense, especially with the inn. This is my first book by this author and I don't think it will be the last. Looking forward to book 2.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lucia Valenzuela · Rating 5 out of 5]

A quick read that holds your interest. Logan and Melinda are the two main characters in this book. Melinda goes through many shocks concerning her mother forcing Melinda to confront her beliefs about her mother’s love for her. The ending of book one is amazing especially as it is a cliffhanger. Can’t wait for book two.

[Rhonda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Entertaining read with lots of drama and a few secrets that need to be revealed. Great characters to follow along. Characters with different personalities and interests. Interesting interactions and conversations. Like the location and the musical aspect of the story. Good read.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Bonnie Theel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Melinda had a very bad childhood. When she left home at 16, she had no plans to return.

Many years later at the request of her mother, she returned to Nantucket, even though she wasn't looking forward to it.

Her four sisters also returned to Nantucket. What was in store for them?

I received a free ARC, and this is my honest opinion.

[GPReader · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a good read. It has drama, mystery and romance. The characters are well developed. The story is well developed. It's all around a great read. There is a bit of a cliff hanger at the end though!

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book one of the Island Whispers Romance series. It is an enjoyable read so far. I’m finding the characters to be engaging and entertaining. Looking forward to reading book two.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.