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Scott Sisters Series #1

The Bookstore on Marco Island

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Nicole aches to be a mother and, after countless IVF treatments and years of infertility, she’s ready to adopt.

But her husband is far from ready and ends up dropping a bombshell: for the past seven years, he’s been living a separate life with a younger woman. While Nicole has been struggling with IVF and infertility, her husband has been raising kids with another woman right under her nose.

Overwhelmed, she leaves her publishing job in the city to move back home to Marco Island, hoping that her family and the familiar beaches will soothe her fractured heart. Things didn’t stay the same while she was away, though. The bookstore from her childhood has closed, and Nicole puts her savings into purchasing it, hoping for a fresh start.

The only problem is that the previous owner’s arrogant son, Mike, watches her like a hawk as she works to rebuild his father’s legacy. Nicole is jaded about men after her divorce, but there’s something about Mike that infuriates her and intrigues her at the same time.

After years of betrayal, Nicole must learn to open her heart again in this clean, wholesome romance that explores family and second chances.

For the best experience, read the books in order. This is the first book in the six-book series!

204 pages, Kindle Edition

Published September 1, 2024

1114 people are currently reading
435 people want to read

About the author

Rose Ryan

7 books20 followers

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5 stars
546 (50%)
4 stars
333 (30%)
3 stars
154 (14%)
2 stars
40 (3%)
1 star
13 (1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
Profile Image for Jacqueline Johnston Cotton.
2,223 reviews38 followers
January 3, 2024
This first book in a new series is sweet, heartfelt and full of emotion. The characters are interesting, realistic and relatable. Nicole and Mike are going to have to learn how to heal, give second chances, cope and let love in. From start to finish this was an wonderfully, enjoyable read and I am ready for more!
Profile Image for Carol Gil.
901 reviews3 followers
July 7, 2024
Great new series

Nicky left Marco Island and thought she was in a living marriage until her husband admitted to having another family the last seven years. She moved back home and partners on a bookstore and falls in love.
Profile Image for Sammi.
18 reviews
September 17, 2024
Heartwarming

This is a book that grips your emotions. It is building layers for what is to come. I cannot wait to read the next book in this series.
354 reviews5 followers
December 31, 2023
Enjoyed this book and the characters. Nicky is the heroine who struggles with infertility going through IVF Treatments with out success. She suffers emotionally with each failure until she decides that she and her husband will not have children of their own and wants to adopt. Her husband says n0. His job failures don’t pay the bills, her job does. One day he comes home packs up his things and tells her he wants a divorce. He has signed all the paperwork. She can have the and money in their bank account. Nicky is shocked. She goes to her lawyer who finds out the truth of what her husband has been doing. She has paid for everything in their marriage plus supported his relationship with a younger woman who gives him children. Nicky even paid for a car for his mistress. Now that he’s found success in his work and is making a lot of money he no longer needs Nicky. Nicky ends up getting the house and money in their bank account which was money she earned plus a great portion of his earnings from his new business. Nicky then decides to return to Marco Island where her family lives. As she is going on to Marco Island she notices that the bookstore she always loved is up for sale. Excitedly she does research on its value and puts a bid in for it. Mike the new owner, has inherited it from his uncle. When Nicky comes in with her offer to buy the store he is shocked. Mike the new owner isn’t even sure he wants to sell it. In the end they become co-owners. They learn to work together. He knows about her but Mike has not been forthcoming with Nicky as to who he is. Just when he is about to tell her she finds out from a woman she knows who claims to be ‘Mike’s fiancé and he is a famous author. Mike’s ex fiancé tries to break up the relationship between Nicky and Mike thinking Mike will return to. She is unsuccessful and with the help of Nicky’s sister Mike is able to heal the breach between him and Nicky and a HEA results.
1,496 reviews13 followers
January 6, 2024
This contemporary romance is page-turning with exceptional world-building with pristine, serene beaches that illuminate tranquility with magnificent vibrantly colored sunrises and sunsets that are painted across the sky, and characters that are captivating and realistic. Their journey is enthralling with the bookstore on Marco Island, Nicole aches to be a mother and after countless IVF treatments and years of infertility she's ready to adopt, her husband is far from ready, dropping the bombshell that he has been having an affair on her with a younger woman for the past seven years, Nicole has been struggling with IVF while her husband has been raising kids with another woman right under her nose, Nicole leaves her publishing job in the city to move back to Marco Island with a fractured heart, divorce, betrayal, heartfelt emotions, clean and wholesome romance that explores family, second chances, action, adventure, and more. I recommend reading this book by an extraordinary author who knows how to captivate her readers' hearts and attention with the bookstore on Marco Island and sweet romance that is sure to take readers on an exhilarating roller coaster ride that is emotional, requiring Kleenex or Puffs, and unforgettable.

I received this book via BookFunnel and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Profile Image for Lindsay.
52 reviews2 followers
February 3, 2025
Decent premise if not a little cliche. However the relationships weren’t fleshed out enough to really grab me. I didn’t feel like anyone in here had a connection. The ending was abrupt and unsatisfactory.

One of my biggest gripes though was, Jill. We hear nothing about her the entire story and then all the sudden she is thrown in as the villain for the last 8% of the book, everyone knows exactly what type of person she is, and instead of realizing she’s diabolical, they say nothing in the moment of her machinations, and use that awkward blip of time to drag out a barely enriched love story to (I guess you can call it a conclusion?).

This book was fairly short and could definitely have used more attention to detail.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
51 reviews
February 23, 2025
First book in a new series. The characters are the kinds of people you want to know, be friends with, or be related to. Their kindness, love of family, heartbreaks, and flaws are things we all experience in some way. Nicky, the first of the sisters to be highlighted in the series, is making serious life changes after her marriage blows up. You’ll cheer all the good things she encounters with the changes. At the same time, there are family and professional secrets that intertwine with her new life that add an element of surprise. The end hints at a future that I hope is fleshed out in other books in the series. I want to know more about her new life and the lives of extended characters. It just ended too soon.
Profile Image for Joy.
59 reviews6 followers
December 29, 2023
Nicky thinks her life is perfect, except for not being able to carry a pregnancy to term. However, her husband Eric has other plans, and they don’t include her.

Brokenhearted and angry, Nicky goes home to Marco Island to heal. Who is Mike? Who is Megan? What happens that turns Nicky’s life around?

This is the first book in what promises to be another wonderfully written series from Amy Rafferty who has partnered with Rose Ryan. I can’t wait to read the rest and learn more about the Scott sisters.

Disclaimer:
I am part of the ARC team. I received this book from the author, voluntarily read and reviewed it.

Profile Image for Pam Fleming.
1,056 reviews
January 3, 2024
Nicky and her husband divorced after Nicky wanted to pursue adoption. Unable to have children, her husband had been cheating and had another family hidden. She returned to Marco Island determined to rebuild her life. Finding a local bookstore for sale she made and offer. The handsome Mike, considers her offer and decides to extend the idea of a partnership. Meanwhile Nicky meets a pregnant 19 year old, who is considering the idea of medical school.

What does the future have in store for Nicky? Can a partnership at the bookstore work? Will Mike move to Marco Island with his niece Jade?

Thank you to the author for this ARC. This review is my honest opinion.
Profile Image for Lynn.
Author 4 books8 followers
December 2, 2023
I don't usually connect with female characters well but Nicky is an exception. She is a strong female character whom we see her vulnerability. She is allowed to be female which so many do not do when trying to write a strong female character.

I read this before the prequel, and thoroughly enjoyed it. The writing style is simplistic but in a good way. This is definitely a feel good, romance story. There is conflict but it isn't dwelled on and resolves quickly. If you are looking for a fun, easy, upbeat read then this is your book.

Looking forward to the rest of the series.
1,491 reviews19 followers
December 31, 2023
betrayal and trust
Finding out your husband lead a double life is some of the worst betrayal that can happen to you, no wonder Nicole returns to her childhood home and family to regroup but in spite of all the family support it´s relatable she has issues trusting again. Who would have thought suspicious Mike who always seems to rub her the wrong way is exactly what she needs to feel again?
I just love Amy´s books and I can´t wait to read the next one in the series plus by introducing Rose Ryan I have another author to check on for wonderful books.
I received this book as a review copy.
874 reviews12 followers
January 6, 2024
Nicky returns to Marco Island to heal after a soul shattering break up of her marriage. She sees a For Sale sign in the window of the bookstore, a favorite place of hers in years past. She offers to use her savings to buy the bookstore, but Mike, the former owner’s nephew, offers her a partnership. This book is really good and I can’t wait for the next one. Great characters and a fantastic setting. Highly recommend!
I received an advance copy of this book from the author, however, I voluntarily wrote an honest review. All opinions are strictly my own.
Profile Image for Glenda.
281 reviews24 followers
January 15, 2024
I have loved reading the past books by Amy and have been looking forward to this one. This first book met and exceeded all my expectations ‼️. Nicky’s story, the first one of the Scott Sisters series, set the stage. Nicky’s life has been challenging emotionally trying to have a baby, a husband that suddenly reveals a REALLY big secret and destroys their life. She comes home to heal and start over. Each sister has their own story and I look forward to reading the rest of them. I received a complimentary copy of this book and chose to write a review.
4,589 reviews31 followers
December 31, 2023
While I’m still not a fan of serial stories with cliffhangers at the end of each book, Amy Rafferty and Rose Ryan have avoided that with each sisters’ story being contained in one book and the family interactions being the carryover. This book is Nicole/Nicky and Mike’s story and dealing with their pasts. She gives us romance, humor, problems, solutions, and the problems that just go with being a family. I really look forward to the rest of the books.
1,685 reviews27 followers
January 3, 2024
Nicole is very keen to enjoy motherhood and after many attempts of IVF treatment she is ready to adopt. But she gets a shock of her live when she finds out that her husband has had a double life with another family of his own . Nicole goes back home and buys the bookstore. The previous owners son Mike is a thorn in her flesh. A great second chance romance. I received this ARC copy and leave a honest review. I recommend this book to other readers.
8 reviews
July 28, 2024
Book 1 the bookstore

It's an interesting story about a family of sisters and their troubles and working them out. It did confuse me a little bit with all the sister's stories but it's less confusing now when more of the story lines are revealed. I enjoyed book 1 alot. Glad that so far it's worked out for them and their story line will continue in the future books. Now to book 2.
Profile Image for Kelly.
126 reviews1 follower
July 9, 2025
This just felt like a story that was on the surface. I love light hearted and straight to the point stories, but I felt like this one didn’t get deep enough at all.
Like I’m not sure if I missed it or what, but like they mentioned tumors at the end and I felt like that hadn’t been mentioned?
Just not my favorite. I enjoyed it. But too much was left unexplained. It was good, but I just wish there was a little more. So much felt rushed.
Profile Image for Andrea Stoeckel.
3,158 reviews132 followers
November 16, 2023
"...[s]ometimes, life asked more of you than you ever thought you could give...

Nicky Scott Rogers has returned to Marco Island- where she was born- after a contentious divorce. As she adjusts again to a slower life, she explores an old dream of owning Sully's Corner: the local bookstore she haunted as a child. When she finds a for sale sign in the window, the dream reawakens.

Agnus Sullivan has died and his nephew Mike isn't sure if he wants to sell. Nicky approaches Mike and as old feelings start to make themselves known on both sides.

As Mike and Nicky grow close others support their relationship. But will it survive when a well kept secret rears it's ugly head?

What a lovely start for a brand new author! Rose Ryan quickly ingrates you into the Scott family, and you want to curl up and stay for as long as you can. Looking forward to seeing more! Highly Recommended 5/5
Profile Image for Judy.
385 reviews6 followers
December 28, 2023
A very close family of sisters, encounters with emotional highs and lows, deep hurts from previous relationship and miscarriages. Sets the stage for second chances with a past acquaintance. Our authors have created a mix of joy and fear as well. Very creative storyline. May experience a few tears as this plays out.
Profile Image for Danette Fowlie.
223 reviews4 followers
December 29, 2023
This is the second book in the series and oh my gosh do I enjoy every minute of this story. Nicki has gone through so much and can still go through any conflicts or trials that are handed to her. Mike and Jade have had a pretty remarkable life as well. You have to read this series.I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
1,021 reviews9 followers
December 29, 2023
Heartwarming story!

A heartwarming story as Nicky returns to the town where she grew up as she copes with a nasty marital breakup. The love and support of Nicky's sisters and the community shines through as Nicky rebuilds her life. A sweet, easy reading and enjoyable story.

I read this book as part of an advance reader team and am providing my honest opinion.
Profile Image for DeeDeeWReads.
1,164 reviews16 followers
January 9, 2024
Nicky Scott's story of loss, love, and second chances. Great story, a happily ever after in a sweet romance book is always what we want. Sometimes how we get there isn't always so sweet.

I am loving this series about the Scott sisters and their lives. I can't wait for my heart to be torn out, put back together, and the tears of sadness and happiness to fall.
2,389 reviews13 followers
February 25, 2024
The Book Store on Marco Island

This was an interesting story. It is about life on Marco Island. The characters are of a large family, sisters, mother and grandmother. A bookstore left to Mike by his uncle, Nicky Scott wants to buy and turn into more than just a bookstore. This story evolves around this family and their dealings with each other. Enjoy, awaiting the second part.
1,161 reviews27 followers
April 28, 2024
Good start to a new author for me

Amy Rafferty is a new author to me and one I am enjoying so far. I enjoy her writing but a couple of areas in the story I wish she has expanded. In particular her fathers secret bank account and the ending. The story of Nicky and Mike is fun and enjoyable. I love the story of the bookstore and how both Nicky and Mike love it
1,014 reviews11 followers
July 1, 2024
loved every word!

This is the sweetest love story I think I’ve ever had the privilege to read. Everything about it melted my heart. The characters and their relationships combined with Marco Island left me feeling as though I was there. Congratulations to the authors for the brilliant work of heart they created!
Profile Image for Joan mooney.
370 reviews4 followers
August 19, 2024
good simple book

I can’t say anything bad about this book. It’s an easy read. Slightly predictable and yet it has its surprises. If you want a book that makes you think and want to rush back to it, this isn’t it. It’s just a fun story, well written and the ending will surprise you.
108 reviews
August 30, 2024
I did not want this book to end!

There were some cheesy parts, but all and all this book was good. The author free you in, got you involved in the characters and you wanted to see Mike & Nicky get together. I hope that he sun-sequent books are about Nicky’s other sisters - Stephanie, Hannah and Lotty.
1 review
November 10, 2024
Made My Heart Smile

This book brought memories of my early reading pre-teen years when I spent countless hours on my Grandma's sun porch absorbed in emotion & adventures. I was raised on a working cattle ranch & always chores to be done so Grandma found "reasons" to need my help. I would recommend this book to anyone seeking an afternoon escape
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews

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