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The Skye Sisters #3

Over the Sea to Skye

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One summer on a beautiful island could change everything…LOSE YOURSELF FOR THE HOLIDAYS IN THIS ESCAPIST, ROMANTIC READ ABOUT FOUND FAMILY FROM THE MILLION-COPY AND SUNDAY TIMES BESTSELLING AUTHOR.

Join Valentina Wynter in the final book of The Skye Sisters Trilogy as she embarks on a summer journey that will change her life forever…

Over the Sea to Skye is a moving tale of resilience, self-discovery, and the bonds that tie us together, set against the breathtaking backdrop of the Isle of Skye.

384 pages, Paperback

Published June 10, 2025

88 people are currently reading
229 people want to read

About the author

Sue Moorcroft

65 books1,006 followers

Sue Moorcroft is a Sunday Times bestselling author and has held the coveted #1 spot in the Amazon Kindle chart. She's won the Goldsboro Books Contemporary Romantic Novel Award, the Readers Best Romantic Read Award, two HOLT medallions and the Katie Fforde Bursary. She writes contemporary fiction of life and love.

She also writes short stories, serials, articles, columns, courses and writing 'how to'.

An army child, Sue was born in Germany then lived in Cyprus, Malta and the UK. She's worked in a bank, as a bookkeeper (probably a mistake), as a copytaker for Motor Cycle News and for a typesetter, but is pleased to have wriggled out of all 'proper jobs'.

Newsletter sign-up: https://signup.harpercollins.co.uk/jo...

Website: www.suemoorcroft.com
Twitter: @suemoorcroft
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
Profile Image for Sarah.
1,627 reviews177 followers
June 10, 2025
A lovely book in the trilogy (or is there room for a fourth?), this one follows Valentina, the last of our “Skye sisters”.

I think this was my favourite of the three because the story had even more layers. Firstly we witness how Valentina is coping with being a single mum, having recently separated from her husband. Heading to her holiday cottage in Skye is the perfect getaway. What she doesn’t anticipate is running into Xander and his nephew. They are over from America and encountering Valentina changes both of their experiences for the summer.

Similar to the other books, Valentina also explores her birth family. What I liked about this was how Moorcroft doesn’t portray a simple reconnection where both parties get along just fine. It felt more realistic when Valentina gets second doubts; she struggles to relax around the very enthusiastic Dale and doesn’t know if this part of her history is something she wishes to pursue further. Not only feeling sorry for Valentina, I also thought this subplot reflected life where judgements of people aren’t always leading to a forever friendship.

In my opinion, this book was deeper and more tense than the other stories, largely due to Gary’s accident. The stress this generates for Valentina and her son meant that their summer break in Skye was overshadowed by this worrying situation, made even worse by uncooperative in-laws.

Yet, romance readers won’t be disappointed as this is also part of the story. I thought it felt quite similar to Ezzie’s relationship due to the different countries angle; I would have preferred Valentina’s romance to be slightly more different to her sister.

But, I thought this was a great read and I really enjoyed revisiting the well-loved characters. The series has grown on me and I think this was an enjoyable read with plenty of angles to appreciate, whilst in a beautiful setting.

With thanks to Avon, Rachel’s Random Resources and NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Maddy.
656 reviews29 followers
April 28, 2025
Reading this book was like sinking into the embrace of a well-worn armchair, the kind that knows your shape and welcomes you back every time. It’s like walking into a room full of people you know well, but haven’t seen for a while, and your heart sings. This is a gorgeous series and I’m sad it’s just a trilogy.

When Valentina’s husband left her, for her assistant – a good 20 years younger than him, Valentina was devastated – not least for her seven-year-old son Barnaby who missed his Dad when he disappeared without trace. Valentina took Barnaby to her summer cottage on the Isle of Skye to be near her two sisters and for some morale support. When her husband finally gets in touch and wants to meet up, he doesn’t turn up. What has happened? Added to that Valentina plays good Samaritan to Xander and his nephew McDonald at the station when they are stranded, and gives them a lift. From then on Valentina and Xander’s paths seem to intersect fairly often – which helps Barnaby and McDonald as they keep each other amused despite the disparity in their ages.

A gorgeous story, well told, and it was wonderful to revisit so many ‘old friends’.
Profile Image for Hannah.
603 reviews118 followers
August 10, 2025
It's an addictive light hearted in the best way read. Even with the light hearted it manages to get in the darker sides of Family and accidents. While never loosing the heart of the Skye Series. book 3 but could easily be read as standalone. I Love Valentina even more in her own story and have had a soft spot for son Barnaby from the off. I'm not disappointed her marriage is over and think her American friend is much more suited to her. I love how Gary and Valentina will eventually make it work for Barnaby though. A brilliant read highly recommend set in a beautiful location to top of a fantastic story.
Profile Image for Taylor .
47 reviews6 followers
April 8, 2025
I read this thinking it was a standalone. Naturally, I only discovered it was part of a series halfway through the book. But honestly? It didn’t matter. I never felt lost or like I’d missed some crucial backstory. So if you’re also stumbling into this one by accident, you’re fine. It holds up completely on its own.

The story itself is genuinely heartwarming without being overly sentimental, Valentina is easy to root for. The relationships she has with her son and sisters feel so grounded and real. Nothing overly polished or dramatic. Just the kind of messy, loving dynamic that actually exists in the world. The Isle of Skye setting? Perfect. I’ve been there, so maybe I’m biased, but I truly believe it’s one of the best places to pretend you’re healing emotionally while drinking tea and staring out at dramatic cliffs. I absolutely love it.

It’s a smooth read, something you can get through without emotional whiplash. Even though it does tackle some heavier themes like adoption, family, and divorce. It keeps things human without getting preachy or too heavy. Overall, a very solid and enjoyable book. And now, like any normal person who accidentally reads book three first, I’ll be going back to check out the other two.

Thank you NetGalley and Avon Books UK for the ARC!
694 reviews20 followers
March 24, 2025
I have always loved Sue moorcrofts books and the Sky Sisters trilogy is no exception, Over the sea to Skye is the third book in the series and is valentinas story, Valentina is the eldest of the Wynter sisters, and the only one who hasn’t made contact with her biological family.
Valentina and her son Barnaby are spending the summer on Skye in their holiday cottage, hoping to enjoy some carefree happy family time after the break up of her marriage to Gary.
However the best laid plans are rudely disrupted by an American tourist and his nephew during the train journey to Skye followed by Valentinas ex having an accident and being unconscious in hospital!
The longed for happy family based summer is thrown into disarray as Valentina juggles single parenthood, an ill ex, contact from her biological family and a new relationship!
A wonderful setting, a very complicated family dynamic but an overall sense of love, belonging, second chances and new beginnings!
Would love another book of the Wynter sisters
Thank you NetGalley for this early read
Profile Image for Barbara Powell.
1,138 reviews68 followers
June 6, 2025
This is the third book in the series and while you can likely read it as a standalone, I think you benefit from having read the other 2 in the series as loads of the characters and places show up in this book as well. This one is Valentina's story as she navigates her new life with her young son Barnaby after her husband left her and she learns to find herself again as a single woman. The gorgeous setting of Skye never disappoints or does the strong cast of female supporting characters that rally around Valentina as she starts over.
This was such a cozy story as Sue Moorcroft always delivers. It covers several topics like adoption, single parenting and complicated family dynamics but it never gets too heavy. It offers a sweet look at new beginnings.
Thanks to Avon Books and NetGalley for the eArc in exchange for my review.
Profile Image for Fordie.
87 reviews1 follower
April 21, 2025
Third in the series, and a story full of hope, love, belonging, and starting again. The setting of Skye and its surrounding areas is magical, and I really like the strong female character cast with their strong sense of togetherness, morale and dynamics.

This is Valentina's story, picking up after her husband has left her, and with themes of adoption and family relationships throughout- which is as expected in this series. A cosy pick me up that has a lot going on without feeling too heavy and weighty.
Thank you NetGalley and Avon Books for my ARC
Profile Image for Ritu Bhathal.
Author 5 books154 followers
June 8, 2025
I'll start by saying that I haven't read books 1 and 2 in the series yet, and though it didn't detract from my enjoyment of this story, I 100% will be going back to catch up on the backstories of the others.
Over The Sea To Skye centres around Valentina Wynter, a newly single parent, on her way to Skye from Inverness with her son, Barnaby, for a hopefully relaxed summer, after a fraught few months following the break-up of her marriage.
Well, that is the plan, but you know what they say about the best laid plans, and all that?
Valentina is the oldest of three adopted sisters, and the only one with no link to her biological family. So, being in Skye, where her two sisters, Ess and Thea, live, is the closest she can get to being with people who love her.
On the train journey, they end up seated with American tourists, Xander and his nephew Macdonald, who are here for some heritage searching and a bit of a break as well.
What follows over the summer isn't quite relaxing, but dealing with an unwell ex, needy, overbearing in-laws, a whole new branch of family, plus a sudden attraction to a certain Pittsburgher is undoubtedly worth it!
I loved Xander. He showed a depth of feeling and emotion that is rare in men, and his relationship with his nephew is exemplary.
Valentina and Xander are a partnership I was rooting for from the off! Yay for #ValeXander!
Many thanks to NetGalley and Avon Books for an ARC.
Profile Image for Sarah Kingsnorth.
456 reviews15 followers
June 18, 2025
Sue Moorcroft - Over The Sea To Skye.

The Skye Sisters Trilogy
Book 3/3

Once again let Sue Moorcroft whisk you away to the rugged beauty of the isle of Skye.
For the third, and sadly final time, we catch up with the Wynter sisters.

Although #OverTheSeaToSkye is the third book in the series, it can be read as a stand alone story. However, you will get far more from the book if you read the series in order.

#OverTheSeaToSkye is Valentina’s story. And I mist admit that I have been eagerly awaiting her turn in the spotlight.

Books one and two in the Skye Sisters trilogy, laid the groundwork for Valentina’s story.
As we catch up with her in Over The Sea To Skye, she is at a low point in her life. Following the emotional and humiliating breakdown of her marriage, valentina has to find a new normal for herself and her young son Barnaby.

A summer escape to the isle of Skye seems like just what they both need. With her two sisters already settled there, Skye feels like the best place to heal.

En route to Skye, Valentina meets American tourist Xander and his teenage nephew.
There is an immediate frizzle between Valentina and Xander, but neither of them is ready or able to pursue their attraction.

As the summer unfolds, life brings Xander and Valentina into the same orbit.
Can they find a way to be together or will an unexpected call from home pull Valentina in a different direction?

I have thoroughly enjoyed this series. Over The Sea To Skye completes the trilogy perfectly.

I’ve loved the strong bonds between the Wynter sisters. They may have their fall outs, but ultimately they have each other’s backs.

The three sisters are all adopted, and as their biological families come back into the picture, there are mixed reactions.
I really liked how this particular thread was handled. Sue Moorcroft wrote with tact, empathy and she kept it real.

#OverTheSeaToSkye is exactly what you would expect from an author as accomplished as Sue Moorcroft. It’s a love story. It’s a family drama. It’s a tale with believable characters and a plot that will reel you in, keep you engaged and finally leave you with a heart full of warmth and a sigh of satisfaction at a story well told.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Profile Image for Theresa Derwin.
1,136 reviews43 followers
June 26, 2025
Third Book's The Charm

This is the third in the Skye sisters trilogy which focuses on older sister Valentina.

All adopted as children by a now deceased couple, Ezz, Thea and Valentina have bonded over the events of the first two books.

In this one, Valentina is heading to her holiday cottage in Skye after her husband Gary has left her for a younger woman; her own assistant Minerva.

Her meet-cute is on the train when a harried, middle aged American man is desperately phoning his bank after his wallet has been robbed.

He's accompanied by his teenage nephew.

Valentina does the nice thing by advising him and when her sister arrives to pick her up, arranging for the guy and his nephew to get a lift to their accomodation.

Xander is taking a well needed break from his life, nephew in tow, to explore his Scottish heritage.

Sparks fly between them and the nephew and Barnaby bond over gaming.

But Valentina has more challenges to face along the way with Gary, of all people, needing help.

Valentina is burnt, doesn't plan to get involved but the pair keep meeting.

We also get updates on all of the sisters along with a new arrival.

It completes the circle of the sister's story arc, giving Valentina a second chance of happiness.

I loved the way it ended, we get a HEA and explorations about disabilities, birth families and more.

Another terrific book by Moorcroft.
Profile Image for Susanne Baker.
728 reviews30 followers
June 5, 2025
I do enjoy the emotional drama that Sue Moorcroft creates in her wonderful books, always such strong female characters to follow as they face difficult and demanding situations.
Valentina plans to spend the summer on Skye with her son and sisters, taking an opportunity to escape from her heartbreak of separating from her estranged husband. However fate throws in a chance meeting with an American and his nephew, who adds a new twist to her island break.
Added to the drama is her ex husband who is playing a tricky game, hiding away with his new love, this is an upsetting time for her son and causes so much stress for his mother, watching him struggle with being left behind.
I enjoyed watching Valentina become attached to Xander, his supportive nature was really appreciated as her life becomes even more dramatic.
It was brilliant to catch up with her sisters too, and to witness her own journey for finding her original family.
Profile Image for theweebookworm .
424 reviews28 followers
June 14, 2025
This is the third book in the series and this time the focus is on Valentina.

Valentina has split from her husband and has taken their young son, Barnaby, to Skye for the summer to recalibrate, however, it doesn't go as planned.

I felt this book had an intensity about it due to all the difference circumstances Valentina endured over a short space of time. My heart went out to her on many occasions. It was great she had the support of her sisters.

The author has described Skye beautifully and I could visualise myself there. It is definitely my favourite island.

I loved the way the author had a diverse range of characters in the book, this made it very relatable.

A beautiful, but emotional story about family, second chances and finding yourself. I would definitely recommend this series.
Profile Image for Wendy(Wendyreadsbooks) Robey.
1,490 reviews71 followers
June 9, 2025

It’s been wonderful spending time on the beautiful island of Skye. Sue Moorcroft writes such wonderful stories and this trilogy has been a treat for readers.
Valentina, Thea and Ezzie are brilliant characters - sisters foremost, they are so supportive to eachother and I love their WhatsApp group chats. Each at differing stages in their lives they always have time for one another.
Getting to know Valentina in this story has bee special. She has been able to relax and let go sight lf since being back on Skye - seeing her loosen up slightly and enjoy her time with Barnaby has been lovely to see.
Profile Image for Georgina Abbotts.
331 reviews2 followers
July 1, 2025
this is the 3rd book in the skye trilogy.Sue is a great author and knows how to create such strong characters I've loved getting to know the 3 wynter sisters I've loved the Isle of skye I felt as if I was apart of the story.im sad this series is over but have loved every second getting to know Thea,Ezzie and valentina.the 3 sisters weere adopted and had a fantastic childhood with there adoptive parents the sisters are very close.this is going to be one of them lovely series that stay with you for a long time I've loved all 3 books in this series
Profile Image for Karen.
347 reviews6 followers
April 10, 2025
It's time for Valentina, the happily-married, sensible, mother-of-one, eldest sister to shine in this final book in the trilogy of the Wynter sisters. With younger sisters, Ezzie and Thea, settling into solid relationships, Valentina should be able to relax. But this story opens with her own marriage in tatters and she escapes to her holiday home on Skye to spend summer with her young son Barnaby and her two sisters. En route, she meets Xander, a charming middle-age American and his teenage nephew Macdonald, who are also spending summer on Skye. Their attraction is mutual - but Valentina's life is about to get more a lot more complicated. Can she really make room for romance?
You can always rely on Sue Morrcroft to put plenty meat on to her romantic stories, and this one is no exception. Themes of divorce, single parenthood and adoption keep this story firmly family focused, and there is plenty going on to keep the reader turning the pages.
The romance is sizzling! Xander is the perfect hero - he has problems of his own, and he does not always get thngs right, but he is just what Valentina needs, and I was rooting for him all the way.
Valentina is a very sympathetic heroine, often conflicted, but always ready to step up and do the right thing by her family - though usually at her own expense. It's great to see her character develop as the story unfolds. Will she finally put herself first? She has a lot to work through before she can do that.
Can't leave this review without mentioning the beauties of Skye, which Sue Moorcroft describes with passion and poetry. She obviously loves this Scottish island as much as the Wynter sisters do.
I'd recommend a visit through all three books, and then in person. It's a lovely place, and if I met people like Valentina, Ezzie and Thea there, I'm sure they'd soon be my friends.
1,732 reviews110 followers
July 12, 2025
A lovely third in this series but, not as good as the other two. I found that sometimes the story got a little slow. My thanks to netgalley and the publishers for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.
Profile Image for Nicola “Shortbookthyme”.
2,382 reviews135 followers
July 10, 2025
✅Over the Sea to Skye is a cozy, sweet story about new beginnings.
I always enjoy meeting back up with the Wynter sisters. This is the story about the oldest sister, Valentina.
If you are in the mood for a series about family, love, second chances and following your dreams….this series is perfect. Would make for great summer reading!
The is the final installment in the Skye Sisters series. Though each book could be read as a standalone, I highly recommend reading all the books in the series. Each book is engaging and heartwarming….definitely must read series.
Thank you NetGalley, the publisher and author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
#shortbookthyme
@shortbookthyme
Profile Image for Christina.
Author 35 books369 followers
April 15, 2025
I had so been looking forward to the third and final book in Sue Moorcroft’s Skye trilogy and I wasn’t disappointed! It is the oldest sister Valentine’s story and since I’d read snippets about her life in the other two books I couldn’t wait to find out what would happen to her. I already knew I disliked her husband who was having a mid-life crisis and making everything so much more difficult than it had to be. And I really felt Valentina deserved something much better. Enter America Xander - happy sigh! From the moment they met their chemistry was undeniable and I was rooting for them to get together. Of course things are never that easy and the author puts them through the wringer but the resulting story was incredibly satisfying and heart-warming and I loved it! This amazing family of adopted daughters and their partners and children will stay with me for a long time.
Profile Image for Georgina.
444 reviews8 followers
May 27, 2025
This is sadly the last book in this series and I have to admit I'm disappointed that it's come to an end.
whilst I really enjoyed the book, I felt it ended a bit too quickly. I got to 92% and it seemed there wasn't enough time to finish every thread in the story. certain bits needed more detail. That being said, I would happily reread this series and probably will in the future
Profile Image for Joanne.
1,539 reviews46 followers
June 7, 2025
Over the Sea to Skye is the concluding book in Sue Moorcroft’s Skye Sisters trilogy. So far we have met two of the sisters and all three have been adopted. You can certainly read this as a standalone but you would miss out on Ezzie and Thea’s stories and that would be a shame.

This book is Valentina’s story. She a calm and organised lawyer, the sensible older sister of the three. However, her world has been turned upside down by her husband Gary’s infidelity and she has come to spend the summer on Skye with her young son Barnaby, knowing she will have her sisters nearby.

Sue Moorcroft writes beautifully about all kinds of relationships and I think that’s a real strength in this book. The relationships between the sisters is wonderful to read about. They are so close to each other, supportive and caring and seem to know intuitively what each other is thinking. Valentina’s relationship with her son Barnaby is also touching to read about. They are also very close, even more so since Gary has let them down so badly. The author demonstrates the difficulty in explaining a break-up to a young child in ways that are appropriate to them. Valentina has to have a lot of difficult conversations with Barnaby over the course of the book.

Other difficult relationships which Valentina has to cope with are also explored in the book. Her ex-husband’s family are particularly tricky to deal with, capricious as the author puts it, and they really seemed a most unpleasant bunch! As with her other sisters, Valentina comes to know more about her birth family over the course of the book and that also creates some awkward situations for her. I feel that the author wrote about this and the other sisters’ relationships with their birth families very sensitively.

There is of course the possibility of a new romance for Valentina and that’s yet another kind of relationship which was lovely to read about. It’s a romance that wouldn’t be without its challenges but once you’ve got to know Valentina, you’ll certainly be hoping that it can all work out for her – she deserves happiness!

I have enjoyed reading about all the sisters and Over the Sea to Skye is a perfect conclusion to the trilogy. Written with Sue’s trademark warmth and insight, it’s a compelling read set in a beautiful location. Over the Sea to Skye is a story of family, second chances and love: ideal summer reading!
Profile Image for Susanne Scott.
1,490 reviews18 followers
May 28, 2025
What a joy to be back on the Isle of Skye again with the Wynter sister. This time it's Valentina's turn, the sister that in the previous two books appeared to have it all. This is her story, and boy is it a story.

I liked how the meet cute was in the first chapter and then we had to experience everything along with Valentina and her son Barnaby. Valentina is on her way to her summer home in Skye, we saw this getting refurbished in the previous book, now she is no longer with her husband and is unemployed. Xander and MacDonald are great characters to distract her and Barnaby from the long train ride, and then through a sequence of events, she helps Xander and thus a friendship is struck, especially between the boys.

Following Valentina's journey in how to navigate being a single parent was interesting, you could see that she was trying to cover for her ex Gary and his lack of contact, which makes what happens next all the more engrossing. The family dynamic, and the new girlfriend, Val really had to take stock and purposely step back as she felt it was no longer her place.

The twist that come after Gary fails to meet them that morning really pulled me in and really helped to give even more depth to Valentina and also Xander as he steps up and becomes that person that she needs, (even though as readers we can already see that because we are so intuitive!) Seeing the other sisters, Thea and Ezzie's story progress was great, those girls really needed some happy. The DNA and family tree search was interesting, I have an interest in genealogy, but getting the perspective from an adoptee was interesting, starting with nothing and having to work onwards. Finding her biological family and her conflicting feelings were really interesting, how much does she really want to know, she already felt she had her family with her sister. When she reflects and we see all the new people that have come into their lives, it really is amazing at the new families that have been created as Thea and Ezz discover biological families. Val needed to see that family could look any way she wanted it to, and it could include and American who has Scottish roots.

In all, this was a great read and I found that I couldn't put it down, I will be really sad to see the end of this series as I have loved my visits to the Isle of Skye.
Profile Image for Heather Copping.
673 reviews12 followers
June 14, 2025
This is book 3 in the series set around the Scottish island of Skye and featuring the three sisters Valentina, Thea, and Ezz, also known as the Wynter sisters. You can read it as a stand-alone, but if you have read the previous two books, it gives you the backgrounds to their lives and the family connections.

Valentina is on route to Skye via Inverness with her young son Barnaby, and is thinking seriously about her life now, her husband Gary has just ended their marriage after having an affair with Valentina's own personal assistant. Travelling through the Scottish Highlands on route to the island of Skye by train, Valentina encounters a fellow traveller who has had some of his possessions stolen. After giving him some legal advice (well, she is a solicitor), they strike up a friendship, and she ends up giving them a lift after their hire car fails to arrive.
On arrival in Skye, Valentina and Ezz are thrilled to learn that Thea has just given birth to a baby daughter that they have named Kerry.

Valentina is certainly having major marital problems, none of which are her making, and somehow the American guy she befriended on the train returns the favour and is there for her. But when she receives a phone call from the police about her ex Gary, she goes quickly to the hospital and finds that things are not too good. When she then has to get Gary's new girlfriend involved, the sparks really hit the fan with her in-laws.

This book is Valentina's own personal story, including her relationship with her ex, her son, her in-laws, and most importantly, her two sisters, who, although all adopted, are more connected than most. When she has a message from a long-lost relative, she has even more decisions to make about her life and future. Will she make a go at a new romance with her newfound American friend, or will her ex's involvement with her old work colleague put a stop to it.

This Skye Sisters Trilogy is just an amazing read. It captures your attention throughout and truly makes you want to visit the area. I have really enjoyed reading this and the previous two books and following the lives of the three sisters. A very good five-star read from me.

#netgalley
#overtheseatoskye
#suemoorcroft
#HarperCollinsPublishersLtd
#Avonbooks
Profile Image for Anne.
2,203 reviews
June 6, 2025
Valentina has been a bit of a background character in the first two books in this lovely series – the third sister (but also adopted, and knowing nothing about her birth family), living on the mainland with the husband neither of her sisters is too keen on and her young son Barnaby, but looking forward to owning a refurbished holiday cottage on the Isle of Skye and being able to spend more time with family. But she hadn’t expected to be travelling there for the summer with just Barnaby, her marriage to Gary emphatically over – and not only has he behaved particularly badly, but the relationship between them is much more difficult than it should be when they share a child.

On the train they meet an American tourist, Xander, travelling to Skye with his teenage nephew Mac – and, at the time, he’s rather preoccupied and distinctly grumpy having lost his wallet. But the two younger members of the party really hit it off, despite the age difference – and when they visit to deliver an apology for their unfortunate first meeting, Valentina finds that Xander doesn’t always wear a permanent frown. There’s actually a bit of a spark between them – but she’s not really ready to do anything about it, and he’s similarly wary. And just as their friendship’s becoming stronger, and there might be some possibilities after all, Valentina’s life is turned upside down – a situation that forces her to return home with an unexpected and distressing situation to deal with.

Something I really loved about this book was the family relationships – Valentina’s particularly special bond with young Barnaby, the joy and support she both draws on and gives her sisters, and Xander’s strong connections both with his nephew and his family back home. But they can cause some of the complications too – in one instance when family members interfere in Valentina’s already difficult life, another when her family history unexpectedly begins to catch up with her, and Xander certainly has more than his share of issues to disentangle.

The budding romance is really nicely handled, its progress seen from both their perspectives – although the prospect of a happy ending looks very unlikely at times when things don’t go quite as smoothly as they might, and the obstacles look insurmountable. But I know better than trying to tell the full story – the author does it so much better, and must say I was wholly engaged in the story and the emotional challenges for the individuals at its centre from the first page to the last.

It’s also the perfect ending to the series – we dip into the ongoing lives of sisters Ezzie and Thea, seeing how their lives have moved on, and quite perfectly rounding off their personal stories. The Skye setting is as gorgeous as ever – and it’s a beautifully told story, perhaps my favourite of the trilogy. But I’ve really enjoyed the whole series, and – much as I’ve always loved her standalone books – really hope it’s something the author will try again. Are the books already on your reading list? If not, I’d highly recommend you add them – I suspect you might just enjoy them as much as I have.
Profile Image for Yvonne.
1,756 reviews136 followers
May 27, 2025
This is the 3rd book in The Skye Sisters Trilogy. I have read a few of this author's books before, but somehow missed this trilogy.

There are mentions of the sisters and some events that I am assuming come from the previous books. The sister had been adopted, this book focuses on Valentina. She is the eldest of the three sisters and has arrived back on Skye for the summer with her 7-year-old son, Barnaby. There has been some upheaval in her life recently as her husband has left her with one of her work colleagues.

Also, visiting the Island is Xander and in tow is MacDonald. It is a chance for Xander to give MacDonald's mum a break and also for him to take a break from his hectic job in the US. Xander is visiting Skye to hopefully find his roots.

A bumpy start for Xander sees Valentina coming to his aid. Staying on the same island, they are bound to meet up again, and a friendship forms. Valentina is getting her head around being a single parent and is going to try and work out what the future holds for her.

The author has created a wonderful, heart-warming story; the island sounds idyllic, and the setting and scenery sound perfect. While I have not read the previous books, I get the sense that they would have been good, as there is a genuine warmth and sense of family in this last book. It does read very well as a stand-alone, but I do wish I had read these in order.

This is a story that has heart but also a lot of drama, soul searching, and being honest with oneself. There is not a huge cast of characters, but the ones there are soon become memorable, some more so than others. Not all are likeable, but that just adds to the story and the tension of the situations and events that the author has created.

This is a wonderful story and I would suggest reading this trilogy in order, but as I mentioned, it works well as a stand-alone. This is a popular author and the books I have read, are wonderful, this is another that just makes for addictive reading. If you are a fan of contemporary fiction, romance and family then this is one you should have a look at. It is one I would definitely recommend.
Profile Image for Tripfiction.
2,046 reviews216 followers
November 22, 2025
Novel set on the Sleat Peninsula, Skye



“There is a reason why Sue Moorcroft novels are popular; she has the ability to transport you to a location so you can have a holiday without leaving home…” (KT reviewer on Amazon)

This is number 3 in The Skye Sisters Trilogy: Under a Summer Skye is Thea’s story; A Skye Full of Stars is Ezzie’s story and, this, Over The Sea to Skye is the story of the third and older sister, Valentina.

Valentina’s husband Gary has gone off with her young assistant, Minerva. and thus it is Valentina and their 7 year old son, Barnaby, heading over the family holiday home in fictional Rothach, on the Sleat Peninsula in Skye. The novel opens as the two are on the train, heading towards the island, and they are joined by two Americans from Pittsburgh, and ‘Uncle’ Xander Courage rather catches her eye. She surprises herself, noting the tiniest hint of a bubbling feeling as they conclude their journey, heading homeward bound to “Overlook Cottage”.

Mother and son have been picked up by Ezzie and the third sister, Thea, is just about to go into labour, a poignant event given the three sisters were adopted in their early years. And soon baby Kerry arrives on the scene, and when Valentina and Barnaby visit the little family, they are greeted by Daisy, the author’s own dog, who makes a cameo appearance.

It is here on the island, ensconced in the bosom of her family, that Valentina can finally unwind and reflect. And perhaps she can find the wherewithal to be open to new romance, should the fancy take her…

There is, of course, a good deal of emotional baggage all round, which adds colour to the characters’ lives but can also stymy the path to happiness and new futures.

This is a heart warming and well told story and forms a good conclusion to the story of the three sisters.

The author has created the fictional village of Rothach on the Sleat Peninsula, and you can find out more details on this link where you can also find a map.
Profile Image for Jaffareadstoo.
2,941 reviews
June 13, 2025

Valentina Taylor is returning, with her seven year old son Barney, to the beautiful Isle of Skye where they are to spend the summer at their newly renovated cottage. With her emotions running high Valentina is trying to cope with the break up of her marraige whilst at the same time protecting Barney from the inevitable fallout. As always her sisters, Ezzie and Thea, are there to support them but it is Valentina’s unexpected friendship with Xander Courage where the heart of the story lies.

This is an emotional read in many ways as not only do we witness the complications in Valentina’s life but we also get to share in her joy and heartbreak when life doesn’t go as planned. There’s a lovely theme of friendship running throughout along with a strong sense of the three sisters once again pulling together to protect those they love. I’ve really enjoyed getting to know Ezzie, Thea and Valentina and their individual stories have shown just what strength of character they all have and the author has explored these so beautifully in each of the stories in the trilogy. Valentina’s story was always going to be an emotional read and it doesn’t disappoint and whilst she was, perhaps, the sister we knew least about it has been such a treat to follow her story, from marriage breakup, to finding romance, and also a tentative reach out to the secrets of her past.

Whilst each of the books can be read as a standalone story, I do think it is better if you read the trilogy in order as that way you will get to know and love the characters which the author has created with such warmth, and of course, you get to spend time on the beautiful Isle of Skye, which is very much another character in the story. It’s been such a pleasure to follow the lives of Ezzie, Thea and Valentina and Over the Sea to Skye concludes the series beautifully.
Profile Image for Pj Ausdenmore.
930 reviews31 followers
June 25, 2025
I have thoroughly enjoyed all three books in Sue Moorcroft's The Skye Sisters Trilogy. Moorcroft has done a superb job of immersing me not only into the lives of Thea, Ezzie, and Valentina but also the beautiful Isle of Skye. As with books one and two, the first thing I wanted to do upon turning the final page of Valentina's book was book a flight to Scotland. This author always manages to do that to me, wherever her books are set.

Moorcroft kept me on my toes with this story. With more than a few twists, I wasn't sure how it would all work out but was happy with the way it did. I enjoyed the multiple relationships explored throughout the story - from Xander's relationship with his teenage nephew to the familial relationships among Valentina, her sisters and their partners, to the fraught one between Valentina and her soon to be ex-husband, not to mention his family and girlfriend. Then there is the simmering romantic potential between Valentina and Xander. With her in Scotland and Xander from the U.S., can it ever be more than just a summer romance? There's also awkwardness and second thoughts between adopted Valentina and the biological family member she's just discovered. I appreciated the author's skill in seamlessly weaving them all together organically while keeping the progression realistic and relatable.

Over the Sea to Skye is a humorous, heart-tugging, emotional journey from heartbreak to happiness that brings Sue Moorcroft's The Skye Sisters Trilogy to a satisfying conclusion. It can be read as a standalone but, for me, was much more enjoyable for having read the three books in order.
4.5 stars

ARC received from publisher via NetGalley
Fair and unbiased review
Profile Image for Cathy Ryan.
1,270 reviews76 followers
May 27, 2025
It was a pleasure to return to the Isle of Skye and catch up with the sisters. This is Valentina’s story, though of course her sisters Thea and Ezzie feature too. A story of endings and new beginnings as Valentina’s life had taken an unexpected turn when her husband left her. She rented out her home in Scotland and escaped to her cottage on the Isle of Skye with her young son, Barnaby for a hopefully restorative summer break. There was the added pleasure of spending time with her sisters to look forward to as well. Unfortunately, things didn’t turn out quite as she’d hoped.

A chance meeting on the train with an appealing American and his nephew, as Valentina and Barnaby travelled to their cottage, had the potential to change lives. However Xander had his own problems and his teenage nephew soon became bored with the slower pace of life on the island.

With her own life descending into disarray after having received unexpected and upsetting news from home, which meant she needed to travel to and from the mainland indefinitely. Dealing with unpleasantness from certain people while she was there also took its toll. Since Xander’s life was far away Valentina couldn’t see a solution to the attraction building between them.

The main theme throughout the story is family, incorporating all the issues, dynamics and relationships involved, particularly pertaining to adoption, and also with all the emotions and complications that can arise. As with the previous books, the characters are (mostly) likeable and brought to life in a relatable way. And oh…that setting! Beautifully described. A lovely, satisfying conclusion to the trilogy.
Profile Image for Helen Haythornthwaite.
223 reviews7 followers
June 30, 2025
It was lovely to return to Skye and read the final book in the Skye Sisters Trilogy.

This story is all about Valentina, the eldest sister, who has recently separated from her husband. She heads over to spend the summer in Skye, with her young son, Barnaby, at a cottage she has recently had refurbished. Her other sisters are living nearby and, as all three sisters were adopted by the same couple, there’s a variety of family members around too.

What Valentina is hoping to be a relaxed summer where she can recharge her batteries and contemplate her future, becomes anything but. Problems loom in the form of Xander, a distinguished American stranger; Gary, her ex and his partner, Minerva; and a surprise message after her search for her birth mother and family.

I love the bond between these three sisters who are always there for each other. They have such a great friendship with one another and have so much gratitude to their late adoptive parents for taking them in. They’re straight talking too, and will tell each other what they need to hear rather than what they might want to hear.

Valentina has a lot to cope with over the summer but deep down you find yourself hoping that things will work out and she will find the happiness that her two sisters have already found before her.

This was another perfect summer read, with gorgeous descriptions of the beautiful Isle of Skye. Every time I’ve read one of these books, I think about visiting one day and seeing this amazing Isle for myself.

With many thanks to the publisher for sending me a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
Profile Image for Kels.
29 reviews1 follower
April 11, 2025
I've been eagerly anticipating book three in the series - the little bits we've learnt about Valentina in the previous two books have made her story sound intriguing.

Valentina, the eldest of the Wynter sisters, appeared to have her life sorted, until she discovered that her husband Gary was cheating on her with her own assistant. This led to her putting in for redundancy after feeling embarrassed at this playing out at work.

This meant that she and her young son Barnaby were able to spend the summer at their holiday home in Skye, close to Thea and Ezzie, Valentina's (adopted) sisters. On the way to Skye, they run into two American tourists, Xander and his nephew MacDonald, who are also spending the summer in Skye.

As Barnaby and MacDonald forge a friendship, Valentina ends up spending a lot of her summer with Xander. However, despite wanting more, she's aware that all of them are going to leave the island at the end of summer, and that nothing can come from it. Add in complications with her ex husband, discovering her birth brothers, and one turning up in Skye unexpectedly, and Valentina's relaxing summer ends up not so relaxing!

This was the perfect summer book - Skye is so beautiful and the descriptions of it throughout the book transport you there. On a personal note, I also loved seeing my hometown mentioned in a book, the first time that's ever happened!!

Sue's books are so lovely, with engaging characters. I loved this - I'm a bit sad this series has come to an end, but am looking forward to seeing what's next!
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