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The Women at Ocean's End
Three women, all with secrets waiting to be uncovered, meet on a beautiful island off the Irish Coast.
Constance Macken, in her ninth decade, is looking back on a life filled with laughter and loss, tragedy and triumph, but knows it is time to right the wrongs from her past that have always haunted her.
Heather Banks arrives on the island to bury her mother. Already adrift with her business sold and her divorce finalised this may be the perfect opportunity to change the course of her future.
Ros Stokes has managed to slip into the perfect job, the perfect cottage and friends that feel like family. However, when the stitches of her life begin to unravel, she must find a way to hold onto the things that have become most dear to her and let go of what holds her back.
Now, in a faded art deco house near the ocean's end, these women must come together to save the house they love, and each other, because they might have run from their troubles but only time will tell if they can overcome their past.
Constance Macken, in her ninth decade, is looking back on a life filled with laughter and loss, tragedy and triumph, but knows it is time to right the wrongs from her past that have always haunted her.
Heather Banks arrives on the island to bury her mother. Already adrift with her business sold and her divorce finalised this may be the perfect opportunity to change the course of her future.
Ros Stokes has managed to slip into the perfect job, the perfect cottage and friends that feel like family. However, when the stitches of her life begin to unravel, she must find a way to hold onto the things that have become most dear to her and let go of what holds her back.
Now, in a faded art deco house near the ocean's end, these women must come together to save the house they love, and each other, because they might have run from their troubles but only time will tell if they can overcome their past.
448 pages, Hardcover
Published June 5, 2025
1808 people are currently reading
689 people want to read
About the author
Faith Hogan
12 books703 followersFaith Hogan is a bestselling author of nine novels. Her books have featured as Book Club Favorites, Net Galley Hot Reads and Summer Must Reads. She writes grown up women's fiction which is unashamedly uplifting, feel good and inspiring.
She gained an Honours Degree in English Literature and Psychology from Dublin City University and a Postgraduate Degree from University College, Galway.
Her latest novel is The Guest House By The Sea - set in the west of Ireland - it has been described as a book to fall in love with.
She also writes crime fiction as Geraldine Hogan. Her Corbally series is out now.
You can find out more about Faith on her website www.faithhogan.com
www.Facebook/FaithHogan.com
@gerhogan
She gained an Honours Degree in English Literature and Psychology from Dublin City University and a Postgraduate Degree from University College, Galway.
Her latest novel is The Guest House By The Sea - set in the west of Ireland - it has been described as a book to fall in love with.
She also writes crime fiction as Geraldine Hogan. Her Corbally series is out now.
You can find out more about Faith on her website www.faithhogan.com
www.Facebook/FaithHogan.com
@gerhogan
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
June 9, 2025
Elderly Constance Macken lives alone in her run down house called Ocean’s End on Pin Hill Island just off the Irish Coast. Constance is looking back and reflecting on her life with her mum Maggie, best friend Dotty and husband Oisin.
Heather Banks is newly divorced and has sold her chain of flower shops and she's proof money can't buy you happiness. Heather arrives on the island to bury her mother, to reconnect with Constance and to find her way again and a purpose.
Ros Stokes is the temporary wildlife ranger on the island, she lives in a sweet little cottage and for the first time in ages she has a home and likes her job and not the cranky farmer who lives next door.
She meets Constance and Heather, and the two younger women help her with her over grown garden and Constance keeps the kettle boiling and cooks delicious food and treats.
I received a copy of The Women at Ocean’s End from NetGalley and Aria & Aries in exchange for an honest review. Faith Hogan has sold millions of books and understand why and she has a way of not only immersing the reader in the plot, she creates the best characters and its set in the prefect place and I wanted to move to Pin Hill Island and be friends with the trio.
A narrative about living on an island and in an old art deco house, memories and regrets, secrets and loss, sorrow and troubles, finding the courage to share this and righting the wrongs of the past and making your way and the importance of friendship and found families. Five stars from me, I cried and laughed along with Constance, Heather and Ros and please write a sequel Faith Hogan.
Heather Banks is newly divorced and has sold her chain of flower shops and she's proof money can't buy you happiness. Heather arrives on the island to bury her mother, to reconnect with Constance and to find her way again and a purpose.
Ros Stokes is the temporary wildlife ranger on the island, she lives in a sweet little cottage and for the first time in ages she has a home and likes her job and not the cranky farmer who lives next door.
She meets Constance and Heather, and the two younger women help her with her over grown garden and Constance keeps the kettle boiling and cooks delicious food and treats.
I received a copy of The Women at Ocean’s End from NetGalley and Aria & Aries in exchange for an honest review. Faith Hogan has sold millions of books and understand why and she has a way of not only immersing the reader in the plot, she creates the best characters and its set in the prefect place and I wanted to move to Pin Hill Island and be friends with the trio.
A narrative about living on an island and in an old art deco house, memories and regrets, secrets and loss, sorrow and troubles, finding the courage to share this and righting the wrongs of the past and making your way and the importance of friendship and found families. Five stars from me, I cried and laughed along with Constance, Heather and Ros and please write a sequel Faith Hogan.
June 23, 2025
EXCERPT: Dear Heather,
Today, I came across a photograph taken of you when you were just a small kiddie one summer long ago on Pin Hill Island. I've been thinking of the old place a lot recently, my age, I suppose, I've come to that stage when there's more to regret than to look forward to. Sorry, I'm trying to be more optimistic, more to remember - that's better.
I've been thinking about people too, about my parents, my mother mostly, buried so far away, about Constance and Maggie; probably all gone now. I don't expect you to understand this, Heather, I know it wouldn't have made any sense to me years ago, but I dearly want to be buried next to them all, not in some place where I'm just another faded headstone. When I die, I want you to bring me back to the island, there's money to pay for it in my account and you'll have the house, of course, but this is my only request.
Well, there's one other small thing. The little letter box beside my bed; if by some miracle Constance outlasts me, (that'll be down to all that fresh air and clean living!) that's for her. I want you to take it to her. There are letters inside, I'd like you to open them together, but not until I'm gone. I don't think I'm brave enough yet to face you both with all I have to say.
I know I have no right to ask, but I also know that you won't refuse, you have too much of your father in you to say no!
Take care,
Mum.
ABOUT 'THE WOMEN AT OCEAN'S END': Three women, all with secrets waiting to be uncovered, meet on a beautiful island off the Irish Coast.
Constance Macken, in her ninth decade, is looking back on a life filled with laughter and loss, tragedy and triumph, but knows it is time to right the wrongs from her past that have always haunted her.
Heather Banks arrives on the island to bury her mother. Already adrift with her business sold and her divorce finalised, this may be the perfect opportunity to change the course of her future.
Ros Stokes has managed to slip into the perfect job, the perfect cottage and friends that feel like family. However, when the stitches of her life begin to unravel, she must find a way to hold onto the things that have become most dear to her and let go of what holds her back.
Now, in a faded art deco house near the ocean's end, these women must come together to save the house they love, and each other, because they might have run from their troubles but only time will tell if they can overcome their past.
MY THOUGHTS: The Women at Ocean's end is a multi-generation novel focusing on friendship and family not always having to be blood.
Three women, all adrift in their own way, discover strength in friendship and shared goals. Constance, in her 80s, has lived on the island for a good part of her life; Heather arrives to fulfil her mother's wish to be buried on the island; and Ros finds herself in a temporary position as wildlife ranger on the island, which comes with a cottage and little else.
As each of these women's lives unravel to some extent, they draw together for support and, in doing so, forge a strong friendship that they all come to cherish and rely on.
Faith Hogan explores mother/daughter relationships, grief, loss and abuse in The Women at Ocean's End. I came to love these characters, Constance in particular, as secrets and ghosts from the past are exposed, faced up to, and laid to rest.
A comforting read.
⭐⭐⭐.9
#TheHouseatOceansEnd #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: I have worked in all sorts of jobs, as a fashion model, an event’s organizer and in the intellectual disability and mental health sector. The constant throughout has been a love of books! I have read and written all of my life.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Aria & Aries via Netgalley for providing an e-ARC of The Women at Ocean's End by Faith Hogan for review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
Today, I came across a photograph taken of you when you were just a small kiddie one summer long ago on Pin Hill Island. I've been thinking of the old place a lot recently, my age, I suppose, I've come to that stage when there's more to regret than to look forward to. Sorry, I'm trying to be more optimistic, more to remember - that's better.
I've been thinking about people too, about my parents, my mother mostly, buried so far away, about Constance and Maggie; probably all gone now. I don't expect you to understand this, Heather, I know it wouldn't have made any sense to me years ago, but I dearly want to be buried next to them all, not in some place where I'm just another faded headstone. When I die, I want you to bring me back to the island, there's money to pay for it in my account and you'll have the house, of course, but this is my only request.
Well, there's one other small thing. The little letter box beside my bed; if by some miracle Constance outlasts me, (that'll be down to all that fresh air and clean living!) that's for her. I want you to take it to her. There are letters inside, I'd like you to open them together, but not until I'm gone. I don't think I'm brave enough yet to face you both with all I have to say.
I know I have no right to ask, but I also know that you won't refuse, you have too much of your father in you to say no!
Take care,
Mum.
ABOUT 'THE WOMEN AT OCEAN'S END': Three women, all with secrets waiting to be uncovered, meet on a beautiful island off the Irish Coast.
Constance Macken, in her ninth decade, is looking back on a life filled with laughter and loss, tragedy and triumph, but knows it is time to right the wrongs from her past that have always haunted her.
Heather Banks arrives on the island to bury her mother. Already adrift with her business sold and her divorce finalised, this may be the perfect opportunity to change the course of her future.
Ros Stokes has managed to slip into the perfect job, the perfect cottage and friends that feel like family. However, when the stitches of her life begin to unravel, she must find a way to hold onto the things that have become most dear to her and let go of what holds her back.
Now, in a faded art deco house near the ocean's end, these women must come together to save the house they love, and each other, because they might have run from their troubles but only time will tell if they can overcome their past.
MY THOUGHTS: The Women at Ocean's end is a multi-generation novel focusing on friendship and family not always having to be blood.
Three women, all adrift in their own way, discover strength in friendship and shared goals. Constance, in her 80s, has lived on the island for a good part of her life; Heather arrives to fulfil her mother's wish to be buried on the island; and Ros finds herself in a temporary position as wildlife ranger on the island, which comes with a cottage and little else.
As each of these women's lives unravel to some extent, they draw together for support and, in doing so, forge a strong friendship that they all come to cherish and rely on.
Faith Hogan explores mother/daughter relationships, grief, loss and abuse in The Women at Ocean's End. I came to love these characters, Constance in particular, as secrets and ghosts from the past are exposed, faced up to, and laid to rest.
A comforting read.
⭐⭐⭐.9
#TheHouseatOceansEnd #NetGalley
MEET THE AUTHOR: I have worked in all sorts of jobs, as a fashion model, an event’s organizer and in the intellectual disability and mental health sector. The constant throughout has been a love of books! I have read and written all of my life.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Aria & Aries via Netgalley for providing an e-ARC of The Women at Ocean's End by Faith Hogan for review. All opinions expressed in this review are my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
August 31, 2025
Maybe I was looking forward to this book too much and my expectations were too high but it turned out to be just an average read for me. Sad because I see most people loved it!
I had difficulty connecting with the story to start with. It was a beautiful setting but it was very slow to get going and there were so many characters on top of the four main players. It took me a while to work out who was who especially as the story constantly jumped back into the past.
I see that several reviewers liked this book less than others she has written so maybe I began with the wrong book. I will try another in the future.
I had difficulty connecting with the story to start with. It was a beautiful setting but it was very slow to get going and there were so many characters on top of the four main players. It took me a while to work out who was who especially as the story constantly jumped back into the past.
I see that several reviewers liked this book less than others she has written so maybe I began with the wrong book. I will try another in the future.
June 5, 2025
Happy publication day 🥳🎉🎧
John 8:32 and the truth will set you free
Oh Lordy lord, this was an emotional rollercoaster of the most beautiful kind.
I’ve been missing out massively it seems. I’ve only read one other book by Faith Hogan, so the wishlist grows again.
Set on a fictional island off the coast of County Mayo, in the house that she shared with her mother, we meet Constance Macken approaching 90, reflecting on her past, and fiercely hanging on to her independence. Over a split timeline we are introduced to Constance’s childhood friend Dotty, we hear the stories of their childhood, the love they shared, the secrets they kept buried and the hard truth that made them part ways.
When Constance locks herself out and calls upon the new girl on the island for some help, we meet Ros on secondment to the island from parks and recreation department, Ros has absolutely fallen in love with the island and the cottage that’s only hers for the length of the job. It doesn’t take long until Ros has fallen in love with Constance and they strike up the most beautiful friendship.
Heather, Dottys daughter, is returning to the island following the death of her mother, Dotty has expressed the wish to be back home and buried on the island. This takes Heather back to Constance and the three woman set about trying to get the beautiful old art deco house back into some sort of repair, as the house comes together the relationship between the three women strengthens and they become found family, and of course, the secrets of the past start to come out.
Faith Hogan paints a stunning picture of the island, you could imagine walking the hills and watching the sea, but the real beauty is in the friendships and love that the women find, I was completely captivated, these characters are so well written they feel like friends. There’s a little goat named George who absolutely steals the show. I cried tears of joy and sorrow, I rooted for each of the women every step of the way and I was really sorry to say goodbye.
I don’t want to spoiler in any way, look out for this on release, you won’t regret it.
Flora Montgomerys narration is beautiful, her voice is a tonic for the ears.
All the stars 🌟
#Jorecommends
Huge thanks to Head of Zeus Audiobooks and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧
John 8:32 and the truth will set you free
Oh Lordy lord, this was an emotional rollercoaster of the most beautiful kind.
I’ve been missing out massively it seems. I’ve only read one other book by Faith Hogan, so the wishlist grows again.
Set on a fictional island off the coast of County Mayo, in the house that she shared with her mother, we meet Constance Macken approaching 90, reflecting on her past, and fiercely hanging on to her independence. Over a split timeline we are introduced to Constance’s childhood friend Dotty, we hear the stories of their childhood, the love they shared, the secrets they kept buried and the hard truth that made them part ways.
When Constance locks herself out and calls upon the new girl on the island for some help, we meet Ros on secondment to the island from parks and recreation department, Ros has absolutely fallen in love with the island and the cottage that’s only hers for the length of the job. It doesn’t take long until Ros has fallen in love with Constance and they strike up the most beautiful friendship.
Heather, Dottys daughter, is returning to the island following the death of her mother, Dotty has expressed the wish to be back home and buried on the island. This takes Heather back to Constance and the three woman set about trying to get the beautiful old art deco house back into some sort of repair, as the house comes together the relationship between the three women strengthens and they become found family, and of course, the secrets of the past start to come out.
Faith Hogan paints a stunning picture of the island, you could imagine walking the hills and watching the sea, but the real beauty is in the friendships and love that the women find, I was completely captivated, these characters are so well written they feel like friends. There’s a little goat named George who absolutely steals the show. I cried tears of joy and sorrow, I rooted for each of the women every step of the way and I was really sorry to say goodbye.
I don’t want to spoiler in any way, look out for this on release, you won’t regret it.
Flora Montgomerys narration is beautiful, her voice is a tonic for the ears.
All the stars 🌟
#Jorecommends
Huge thanks to Head of Zeus Audiobooks and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this ALC 🎧
July 25, 2025
Though a slow burn, I enjoyed connecting with the characters in Pin Hill. The characters and their lives stole the show and I found them to be so wholesome and lovable. Ros, Heather and Constance each have a story to tell and there’s an underlying mystery of the history between Constance and the late Dotty (Heathers mother, and Constance’s childhood friend).
This was beautifully written with multiple important themes demonstrated-grief, end of life planning, chosen family, friendship and career aspirations.
I found myself rooting for each character and their respective challenges or relationships. This was my first read from the author. Thank you to Netgalley for the arc and to the publisher, Aria and Aries.
This was beautifully written with multiple important themes demonstrated-grief, end of life planning, chosen family, friendship and career aspirations.
I found myself rooting for each character and their respective challenges or relationships. This was my first read from the author. Thank you to Netgalley for the arc and to the publisher, Aria and Aries.
February 16, 2025
What a powerful story! It left me in a puddle of tears! The Women At Ocean’s End by Faith Hogan is an incredibly moving, deeply probing story that explores lasting friendships, family connections/mother daughter relationships, physical and emotional abuse, haunting secrets, separation/death, traumatic divorce, fresh starts and new love to name a few of the scenarios covered. The topic of grief runs like a knotted thread throughout the storyline in each of these women lives: Constance, Heather and Ros. Dotty, too. They each deal with it in their own way.
As always with Faith’s stunning novels, Ireland’s inspiring landscape plays a prominent role. This time it is not set in Ballycove but rather on one of the small islands off the Mayo coast in western Ireland. The author tells us in her Acknowledgements that Pin Hill Island (in the novel) was inspired by Achille Island, a stunning location of exceptional beauty. I have seen photos of this natural wonder and it is easy to see why a writer would be inspired to use this location. It is an idyllic haven, known for its rugged mountains, tall sea cliffs, peat bogs and clean beaches. A perfect place to start over, unveil secrets and seek reflection. In fact, its wildness mirrors the emotional state of the characters as they face new and old challenges.
Faith Hogan’s novel paints a vivid portrait of what life would be like living in a remote yet picturesque location. Who wouldn’t be inspired by such breathtaking grandeur! The setting serves the plot well as a valuable framework where we can watch the seasons change, see what is happening around the characters and connect on an emotional level with them. We are able to step into their shoes and feel the impact of the environment on their lives. We all know vacationing by the sea can offer renewal and refreshment of spirit, mind and body. And this little island offers these women a heavy dose of nature’s nurturing.
I loved the cast of characters but one stole (and broke!) my heart: George the kid (baby goat) rescued by Ros. It says a lot about her care for animals and the environment. There are some very moving passages when Ros is choked up over the injured goat. But it makes her aware of her own deeper sadness which stems from the loss of her mother. This is an example of how the natural environment (including animals) plays an important role in revealing each character’s past and path to healing. Ros is an intriguing person and her journey—a touching one. I marvelled at the amazing things she did and aspired to do during her interlude job position within a Parks and Wildlife capacity. Ros had top qualifications with text book knowledge but little practical application experience. Initially she doubts herself taking on the role offered her, after her predecessor, Max, steps down from the position due to his cancer.
Heather is the daughter of Dotty: a woman we get to know through flashbacks or a past timeline. Heather lands on the island to bury her mother. She has come through some rough patches with the end of both her marriage and business. Spending time with Ros and Constance, helps her sort out her life and begin a new chapter: one that makes her happy and fulfils her wishes. She in turn offers them consolation and joy.
Constance is a haunted women. She carries some bad childhood experiences. Yet Dotty was closer to her than a sister until an incident happens that divides them. They spent so much time together—saving each other. Yet Constance’s past holds her back. Worse is the fact her present is filled with new challenges that will inevitably affect her future. She wants to set some things right that have been buried and festering too long. The John 8:32 opening scripture definitely suits her: ‘and the truth will set you free’. But time is of the essence. She must unload her heart full of secrets before it is too late.
The importance of stories in society comes shining through in The Women at Ocean’s End. Constance’s mother was a writer. Maggie Macken had a lot of fans and a plan is devised to honour her. Heather argues that readers deserve a chance to enjoy the novels. She ‘found them to be a complete escape from worries and misery…’ so they could do the same for others.
The psychology of anger and its sources are explored in this novel. Why do people explode into sudden emotional outbursts? We know that emotions pushed down will not stay put. Like a volcano, the lid will blow off eventually. We see this in both Constance's and Ros’s reactions.
The Women at Ocean’s End has a valuable purpose. It provides healing, restores happiness and births new ventures. The three women work together to save this cottage, while learning a lot about themselves and each other. As a result some very positive things happen. Grief turns to hope, chaos to peace. There’s a beautiful ending. Each of these women rise like phoenixes out of their ashes. Fabulous novel! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Aria publisher and Netgalley for a review copy.
As always with Faith’s stunning novels, Ireland’s inspiring landscape plays a prominent role. This time it is not set in Ballycove but rather on one of the small islands off the Mayo coast in western Ireland. The author tells us in her Acknowledgements that Pin Hill Island (in the novel) was inspired by Achille Island, a stunning location of exceptional beauty. I have seen photos of this natural wonder and it is easy to see why a writer would be inspired to use this location. It is an idyllic haven, known for its rugged mountains, tall sea cliffs, peat bogs and clean beaches. A perfect place to start over, unveil secrets and seek reflection. In fact, its wildness mirrors the emotional state of the characters as they face new and old challenges.
Faith Hogan’s novel paints a vivid portrait of what life would be like living in a remote yet picturesque location. Who wouldn’t be inspired by such breathtaking grandeur! The setting serves the plot well as a valuable framework where we can watch the seasons change, see what is happening around the characters and connect on an emotional level with them. We are able to step into their shoes and feel the impact of the environment on their lives. We all know vacationing by the sea can offer renewal and refreshment of spirit, mind and body. And this little island offers these women a heavy dose of nature’s nurturing.
I loved the cast of characters but one stole (and broke!) my heart: George the kid (baby goat) rescued by Ros. It says a lot about her care for animals and the environment. There are some very moving passages when Ros is choked up over the injured goat. But it makes her aware of her own deeper sadness which stems from the loss of her mother. This is an example of how the natural environment (including animals) plays an important role in revealing each character’s past and path to healing. Ros is an intriguing person and her journey—a touching one. I marvelled at the amazing things she did and aspired to do during her interlude job position within a Parks and Wildlife capacity. Ros had top qualifications with text book knowledge but little practical application experience. Initially she doubts herself taking on the role offered her, after her predecessor, Max, steps down from the position due to his cancer.
Heather is the daughter of Dotty: a woman we get to know through flashbacks or a past timeline. Heather lands on the island to bury her mother. She has come through some rough patches with the end of both her marriage and business. Spending time with Ros and Constance, helps her sort out her life and begin a new chapter: one that makes her happy and fulfils her wishes. She in turn offers them consolation and joy.
Constance is a haunted women. She carries some bad childhood experiences. Yet Dotty was closer to her than a sister until an incident happens that divides them. They spent so much time together—saving each other. Yet Constance’s past holds her back. Worse is the fact her present is filled with new challenges that will inevitably affect her future. She wants to set some things right that have been buried and festering too long. The John 8:32 opening scripture definitely suits her: ‘and the truth will set you free’. But time is of the essence. She must unload her heart full of secrets before it is too late.
The importance of stories in society comes shining through in The Women at Ocean’s End. Constance’s mother was a writer. Maggie Macken had a lot of fans and a plan is devised to honour her. Heather argues that readers deserve a chance to enjoy the novels. She ‘found them to be a complete escape from worries and misery…’ so they could do the same for others.
The psychology of anger and its sources are explored in this novel. Why do people explode into sudden emotional outbursts? We know that emotions pushed down will not stay put. Like a volcano, the lid will blow off eventually. We see this in both Constance's and Ros’s reactions.
The Women at Ocean’s End has a valuable purpose. It provides healing, restores happiness and births new ventures. The three women work together to save this cottage, while learning a lot about themselves and each other. As a result some very positive things happen. Grief turns to hope, chaos to peace. There’s a beautiful ending. Each of these women rise like phoenixes out of their ashes. Fabulous novel! 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Aria publisher and Netgalley for a review copy.
March 22, 2025
What an emotional rollercoaster this was. I cried buckets
Constance and Dotty form a friendship from an early age. Their bond so strong even after they fall out many years later after something devastating happens, and they make a pact to keep it secret.
Their lives turn out very diffently.
Dotty's daughter Heather decides to visit Constance after her divorce and mother's death. It's been many years since she has seen her.
Ros is filling in as temporary Ranger on the island off Ireland and befriends Constance after she accidentally locks herself out of her house.
This was such a heartwarming story of how these women's lives and friendships come together.
There is some drama along the way it they all find solutions.
This is definitely a different read from Faith's other books, which mainly centre around Ballycove, although it is mentioned.
Have plenty of tissues to hand. You'll need them.
It's a beautiful story in a beautiful setting.
Loved it.
Thanks to Aria and Aries for the invitation to read this in return for an honest review.
Constance and Dotty form a friendship from an early age. Their bond so strong even after they fall out many years later after something devastating happens, and they make a pact to keep it secret.
Their lives turn out very diffently.
Dotty's daughter Heather decides to visit Constance after her divorce and mother's death. It's been many years since she has seen her.
Ros is filling in as temporary Ranger on the island off Ireland and befriends Constance after she accidentally locks herself out of her house.
This was such a heartwarming story of how these women's lives and friendships come together.
There is some drama along the way it they all find solutions.
This is definitely a different read from Faith's other books, which mainly centre around Ballycove, although it is mentioned.
Have plenty of tissues to hand. You'll need them.
It's a beautiful story in a beautiful setting.
Loved it.
Thanks to Aria and Aries for the invitation to read this in return for an honest review.
May 9, 2025
3,5 🌟
The Women at Oceans End is an emotional read with alternating storylines and multiple POVs. Overall, I liked the book but ultimately found myself a bit disappointed and wanting more.
To start with the positive, Faith Hoogan’s writing style is fantastic; she has a way of telling a story that makes you feel as if you were there to experience it in person. The setting and characters were lovely and very easy to imagine. I loved the island setting and the remoteness of the place. It’s a rather sad read but still enjoyable!
On the other hand, the story took quite a while to get going and I wanted more of these 3 women together. They find their ways to one another on the island but their stories seemed so separate sometimes. Ros in particular felt a bit like an odd one out (I loved her as a character though, probably my favourite). Lastly, the major secrets were revealed pretty early and I found the last 25% not as climactic as hoped.
*Thanks to the publisher for sending me an early copy in exchange for my honest thoughts*
The Women at Oceans End is an emotional read with alternating storylines and multiple POVs. Overall, I liked the book but ultimately found myself a bit disappointed and wanting more.
To start with the positive, Faith Hoogan’s writing style is fantastic; she has a way of telling a story that makes you feel as if you were there to experience it in person. The setting and characters were lovely and very easy to imagine. I loved the island setting and the remoteness of the place. It’s a rather sad read but still enjoyable!
On the other hand, the story took quite a while to get going and I wanted more of these 3 women together. They find their ways to one another on the island but their stories seemed so separate sometimes. Ros in particular felt a bit like an odd one out (I loved her as a character though, probably my favourite). Lastly, the major secrets were revealed pretty early and I found the last 25% not as climactic as hoped.
*Thanks to the publisher for sending me an early copy in exchange for my honest thoughts*
August 3, 2025
On audiobook, this was difficult at times to keep track of with the 4 main women and over various timelines, along with local townspeople who were also important. This may well be a strong 4 star 🌟 rating on a Kindle or book.
I mostly enjoyed the story but it meandered towards the end and could’ve done with a shorter ending or more editing.
Also, the romance in the novel could have been more developed and enjoyed, instead of sprung on the reader and wrapped up quickly at the end. Or left out entirely.
The other thing that seemed to be sprung on the reader was something between 2 of the elder women, as if again, it’s being wrapped up and served up as a finale.
I really have enjoyed this author so be sure to check out other versions and other novels by her!
I enjoyed the narrator.
I mostly enjoyed the story but it meandered towards the end and could’ve done with a shorter ending or more editing.
Also, the romance in the novel could have been more developed and enjoyed, instead of sprung on the reader and wrapped up quickly at the end. Or left out entirely.
The other thing that seemed to be sprung on the reader was something between 2 of the elder women, as if again, it’s being wrapped up and served up as a finale.
I really have enjoyed this author so be sure to check out other versions and other novels by her!
I enjoyed the narrator.
September 25, 2025
Hit all the right notes for my current mood. Nothing special just a good story w a cottage I would LOVE
May 6, 2025
I've read several Faith Hogan books and enjoyed them all. Unfortunately this one didn't quite do it for me. It seemed to take an age to get going properly. We had half the book rapidly jumping back to 1957 setting the scene for the friendship and breakup of Dot and Constance interspersed with snippets of Ros and Heather and their troubles. Now I realise this was intended to introduce the main characters and bring them together on Pin Island (which I would visit in a heartbeat by the way) but it seemed very disjointed and lacking in purpose whilst reading it. The jumping back and forth slows down in the latter half and becomes more purposeful. I did enjoy the relationship between the three women Ros, Constance and Heather. I only wish the book had focused more on this. An enjoyable read eventually but not the best I've read from this author.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read an advance copy. All opinions are my own.
May 15, 2025
The Women at Ocean's End
By Faith Hogan
This was not the book for me, and I realised that as soon as the publisher resent the galley with a title change. It was originally titled "The House at Ocean's End", and although nothing else changed, the premise shifted for me slightly.
It is actually a well written, comfort read about friendship and secrets with some typical to this genre tensions. I have no doubt that many readers will find it lovely and heartwarming, but it's just a bit too chocolate boxy for my tastes.
If you like friendship stories, especially cross generational friendships, and a West of Ireland island setting, and you want something along the lines of a Maeve Binchy to pack for your beach read, this is probably perfect.
Publication date: 5th June 2025
Publisher: Aria and Aries
Thanks to #Netgalley and the publisher for providing an eGalley for review purposes
By Faith Hogan
This was not the book for me, and I realised that as soon as the publisher resent the galley with a title change. It was originally titled "The House at Ocean's End", and although nothing else changed, the premise shifted for me slightly.
It is actually a well written, comfort read about friendship and secrets with some typical to this genre tensions. I have no doubt that many readers will find it lovely and heartwarming, but it's just a bit too chocolate boxy for my tastes.
If you like friendship stories, especially cross generational friendships, and a West of Ireland island setting, and you want something along the lines of a Maeve Binchy to pack for your beach read, this is probably perfect.
Publication date: 5th June 2025
Publisher: Aria and Aries
Thanks to #Netgalley and the publisher for providing an eGalley for review purposes
March 7, 2025
I loved this book, a powerful powerful story! Which left me crying many times! The book is an incredibly moving story that explores lasting friendships, family connections/mother daughter relationships, physical and emotional abuse, haunting secrets, separation/death, traumatic divorce, fresh starts and new love to name a few of the scenarios covered.
Set in Ireland on one of the small islands off the Mayo Coast, but references Ballycove.
Thanks to Aria publisher and Netgalley for a review copy.
After reading this book, I have managed to read all of Faith's wonderful books, and cannot wait for her next novel.
Set in Ireland on one of the small islands off the Mayo Coast, but references Ballycove.
Thanks to Aria publisher and Netgalley for a review copy.
After reading this book, I have managed to read all of Faith's wonderful books, and cannot wait for her next novel.
November 19, 2025
A wonderful story of friendship
May 20, 2025
What a lovely read! I wasn’t too sure what to expect as I began this one (although I loved the authors previous book) but I soon found myself drawn in and unable to put this down.
This book is predominantly about three women, a very youthful older lady Constance, her childhood friends’ daughter Heather and Ros, a newcomer to the island where Constance lives. This story brings these three wonderful characters together, through events in their past or things happening now.
Everything just flowed really well, some may say it’s a slow burn, but I feel it’s a story of really getting to know the characters, understanding their pasts and how this affects their present. It follows their lives as they all come to terms with different tragedies and things life has thrown at them.
The author is sensitive and loving in her writing, you really will come to love all the characters (well almost all!)
She describes everything so well that you will feel you are sat at Ocean’s End with the characters, seeing the house as it is and as it was.
I really loved how friendship is portrayed in this story, how it doesn’t matter your age, your background, you can become friends with anyone. I loved the friendships that build between the other characters too, not just our main characters. There’s a real sense of community and connection and it’s so beautifully written that you really will struggle to put it down.
This book is predominantly about three women, a very youthful older lady Constance, her childhood friends’ daughter Heather and Ros, a newcomer to the island where Constance lives. This story brings these three wonderful characters together, through events in their past or things happening now.
Everything just flowed really well, some may say it’s a slow burn, but I feel it’s a story of really getting to know the characters, understanding their pasts and how this affects their present. It follows their lives as they all come to terms with different tragedies and things life has thrown at them.
The author is sensitive and loving in her writing, you really will come to love all the characters (well almost all!)
She describes everything so well that you will feel you are sat at Ocean’s End with the characters, seeing the house as it is and as it was.
I really loved how friendship is portrayed in this story, how it doesn’t matter your age, your background, you can become friends with anyone. I loved the friendships that build between the other characters too, not just our main characters. There’s a real sense of community and connection and it’s so beautifully written that you really will struggle to put it down.
June 26, 2025
This is such a beautifully written story about women of different generations, who, over the course of their lives, have come to find solace, refuge, or return to a place they felt was simply home.
Constance lives in Ocean's End at the top of Pin Hill Island. Once it would have been glamorous, but now, unfortunately, it is decaying. Once the home of an author, who was once popular but now lies forgotten, it is now a memory of what it used to be.
Ros is a blow-in, someone who came to love the island and also built a friendship with Constance. Their first meeting was a surprise, but they got to know each other and their friendship blossomed.
Heather is returning to the island after many long years. She has brought the ashes of her mother, Dotty. It was her final wish to be taken back to the island.
The author has once again created such a magnificent backdrop to a story that encompasses life, love, loss, and regret. This author always manages to bring a tear to my eye somewhere, this book was no exception. The way she builds her characters and their relationships is wonderful. She introduces the characters and shares the details of their lives, but does not reveal everything. It is told in a back-and-forth style and also alternates between characters. The author does this so well and it did not take long for me to get to grips with the characters.
The story is told via each character, they gives details of their childhood, for some of them, it was not a happy one. The past and the present stories tell of hardships and determination, but they have secrets, and these need to come out at some point. Mistakes of the past need to be settled, whether it is admission or forgiveness.
This is a stunning story, the backdrop of the house, garden and the island is just wonderful. The friendships that are built through the story are very captivating. It is so nice to see unconditional friendship. There are many surprises in the story and these come from various sources, not obvious but soon become a realisation that the island has more to offer.
If you are a fan of contemporary fiction that shows how lives can be changed, or have been changed through a single act, then this book is one you want to have a look at. It has some secrets and mysteries, there is romance and there is of course, friendship. A stunning story and one I would definitely recommend.
Constance lives in Ocean's End at the top of Pin Hill Island. Once it would have been glamorous, but now, unfortunately, it is decaying. Once the home of an author, who was once popular but now lies forgotten, it is now a memory of what it used to be.
Ros is a blow-in, someone who came to love the island and also built a friendship with Constance. Their first meeting was a surprise, but they got to know each other and their friendship blossomed.
Heather is returning to the island after many long years. She has brought the ashes of her mother, Dotty. It was her final wish to be taken back to the island.
The author has once again created such a magnificent backdrop to a story that encompasses life, love, loss, and regret. This author always manages to bring a tear to my eye somewhere, this book was no exception. The way she builds her characters and their relationships is wonderful. She introduces the characters and shares the details of their lives, but does not reveal everything. It is told in a back-and-forth style and also alternates between characters. The author does this so well and it did not take long for me to get to grips with the characters.
The story is told via each character, they gives details of their childhood, for some of them, it was not a happy one. The past and the present stories tell of hardships and determination, but they have secrets, and these need to come out at some point. Mistakes of the past need to be settled, whether it is admission or forgiveness.
This is a stunning story, the backdrop of the house, garden and the island is just wonderful. The friendships that are built through the story are very captivating. It is so nice to see unconditional friendship. There are many surprises in the story and these come from various sources, not obvious but soon become a realisation that the island has more to offer.
If you are a fan of contemporary fiction that shows how lives can be changed, or have been changed through a single act, then this book is one you want to have a look at. It has some secrets and mysteries, there is romance and there is of course, friendship. A stunning story and one I would definitely recommend.
August 18, 2025
I enjoyed the story of the Women At Oceans End. Set on a Island off Iteland, Constance now in her later years of life befriends a young girl Ros who has a temporary job as the Island Ranger. Constance was a School Teacher on the Island and well respected. The story goes back to when Constance was a child and had a good friend called Dotty. A terrible tragedy happens in their childhood that changes the course of their lives. The story goes back and forth to past and present. Constance Mother was a writer and wrote many books. Dotty had a daughter Heather and she reads one of Constance Mother’s books, after her Mother has died. Heather wants to fulfil her Mother’s wishes and take Doty’s ashes back to the Island, so she goes to see Constance. There are many things that happen over this time and Constance and Heather always very close both form a strong bond with Ros.
January 3, 2026
I really enjoyed the story of these 3 women whose lives intertwined over generations. Fantastic!
November 26, 2025
A story about lasting friendship
A story of 3 women and the lasting friendships they develop.Set on an island off the coast of Co. May o it tells a story of how each of them come to be on the island as an escape from unhappy past lives. A story about how friendships can overcome the difficulties and unhappiness that have occurred in their lives.
A story of 3 women and the lasting friendships they develop.Set on an island off the coast of Co. May o it tells a story of how each of them come to be on the island as an escape from unhappy past lives. A story about how friendships can overcome the difficulties and unhappiness that have occurred in their lives.
August 5, 2025
I always enjoy books by Faith Hogan her writing style never lets you down and I will look forward to reading another. I did feel this particular story was not as compelling as some of her others though. For me the disappointment was, it was unclear at what point Ros changed her mind about the farmer it felt to me like there was a lot more to their story which I would have enjoyed reading. Perhaps Faith is planning to write a sequel because lots of the characters did not have resolution regarding relationships. Read other books by Faith and you may be of the same opinion.
June 5, 2025
Another excellent novel from a favourite author!
An island off the Irish coast is the wonderful setting for this superb piece of writing. Constance Macken has lived there for decades, in a home whose days of splendour are in the past and the past is weighing heavily on her conscience. As she enters her ninth decade she knows that time is running out to put right the wrongs of the past. Heather Banks, on the other hand, arrives on the island to bury her mother in accordance with her final wishes. Recently divorced and having recently sold her business, there is nothing for her to rush back for. Ros Stokes, newly qualified and on her own, has settled into her first real job on the island where she has her own cottage - tied to the job and has found happiness there. Three women - one island.
I have adored every novel which this author has produced and this one is no different. In the past, I have likened Faith Hogan to the late writer, Maeve Binchy, but I truly believe that with this latest book we shall be comparing other authors to Faith in the future. She really knows how to create a fabulously entertaining story with a good range of characters who work both on their own and together. Love, empathy and compassion shine throughout. Absolutely highly recommended and, once again, fully meriting all five sparkling stars!
An island off the Irish coast is the wonderful setting for this superb piece of writing. Constance Macken has lived there for decades, in a home whose days of splendour are in the past and the past is weighing heavily on her conscience. As she enters her ninth decade she knows that time is running out to put right the wrongs of the past. Heather Banks, on the other hand, arrives on the island to bury her mother in accordance with her final wishes. Recently divorced and having recently sold her business, there is nothing for her to rush back for. Ros Stokes, newly qualified and on her own, has settled into her first real job on the island where she has her own cottage - tied to the job and has found happiness there. Three women - one island.
I have adored every novel which this author has produced and this one is no different. In the past, I have likened Faith Hogan to the late writer, Maeve Binchy, but I truly believe that with this latest book we shall be comparing other authors to Faith in the future. She really knows how to create a fabulously entertaining story with a good range of characters who work both on their own and together. Love, empathy and compassion shine throughout. Absolutely highly recommended and, once again, fully meriting all five sparkling stars!
June 5, 2025
This was my first book by Faith Hogan. I did request it based on its original title ‘The House at Ocean’s End’ and actually I felt this was a far better title than the renamed one.
The story revolved around Constance and Dotty - and mostly their mothers in the late 1950’s - coupled with Heather - Dotty’s estranged daughter - and Ros an environmentalist sent to Pill Island on a secondment in a contemporary setting.
The book flip-flopped between the two - quite slowly and ponderously at times. I quite often waited for something to happen and somehow it didn’t, I felt that Heather and Finbarr could have been taken further but they weren’t and Shane took the job Ros wanted but we have no idea if he was successful.
Constance and Dotty have dark secrets from their childhood - Dotty’s father was a monster. These eventually get resolved but too late for either women.
It was obvious how the book would end early on - it was dealt with, with empathy
All in all I felt slightly cheated somehow
The story revolved around Constance and Dotty - and mostly their mothers in the late 1950’s - coupled with Heather - Dotty’s estranged daughter - and Ros an environmentalist sent to Pill Island on a secondment in a contemporary setting.
The book flip-flopped between the two - quite slowly and ponderously at times. I quite often waited for something to happen and somehow it didn’t, I felt that Heather and Finbarr could have been taken further but they weren’t and Shane took the job Ros wanted but we have no idea if he was successful.
Constance and Dotty have dark secrets from their childhood - Dotty’s father was a monster. These eventually get resolved but too late for either women.
It was obvious how the book would end early on - it was dealt with, with empathy
All in all I felt slightly cheated somehow
January 23, 2025
The House at Ocean’s End by. Faith Hogan is a delightful read and is the story of three women, who meet and enjoy each other’s company.
Constance Mackenzie, in her ninth decade has lived at Ocean’s Drive since she was a child. She looks back on her life and knows that there are things she must attend to before she dies.
Ros Stokes works on the island as a ranger temporarily, but then doesn’t get the full time position. She is a friend of Constance and has helped with maintenance work on the house.
Heather Banks used to stay with Constance when she was a child. Her mother was a childhood friend of Constance.
The two younger woman enjoy Constance’s company and are with her until the end of her life.
An enjoyable life affirming book.
Highly recommended
Constance Mackenzie, in her ninth decade has lived at Ocean’s Drive since she was a child. She looks back on her life and knows that there are things she must attend to before she dies.
Ros Stokes works on the island as a ranger temporarily, but then doesn’t get the full time position. She is a friend of Constance and has helped with maintenance work on the house.
Heather Banks used to stay with Constance when she was a child. Her mother was a childhood friend of Constance.
The two younger woman enjoy Constance’s company and are with her until the end of her life.
An enjoyable life affirming book.
Highly recommended
January 30, 2025
Another fabulous read from this author who gets to the heart of human emotion and relationships in their books and also paints a picture of what it was like to live in Ireland in the 19 and also took us on a journey to the beautiful remote location of oceans end which sounded like a haven for tranquility and healing.
The story is an emotional rollercoaster and explores the power of friendships and also delves into a lot of complex and traumatic issues and I had tears of sadness and happiness while reading.
This was a beautiful poignant read
The story is an emotional rollercoaster and explores the power of friendships and also delves into a lot of complex and traumatic issues and I had tears of sadness and happiness while reading.
This was a beautiful poignant read
January 16, 2025
Oh wow! I was there at Oceans End. I really felt as though I was there, the descriptions were excellent and propelled me into the lives of these kind and loving women.
There’s Constance who is elderly and everyone loves her, Heather who is in her fifties, but she’s lost her place in life following her divorce and lastly Ros who has no one in her life to care for and love her, but still she continues to survive and do her best.
I loved this book so much.
There’s Constance who is elderly and everyone loves her, Heather who is in her fifties, but she’s lost her place in life following her divorce and lastly Ros who has no one in her life to care for and love her, but still she continues to survive and do her best.
I loved this book so much.
June 5, 2025
Faith Hogan never fails to deliver a good story. The rugged, beautiful setting of a tiny island in the Atlantic ocean provides the perfect setting for a poignant, emotional, bittersweet story that is full of hope and warms your heart. I didn’t expect it to be so dark but it wasn’t disturbing in the end. I’ve loved every single one of Faith Hogan’s books and this is no exception.
Thank you to Aria, Head of Zeus, the author and NetGalley for an early copy.
Thank you to Aria, Head of Zeus, the author and NetGalley for an early copy.
June 11, 2025
I always love Faith’s books. However, sadly, this one just didn’t do it for me. It took ages to get anywhere and it just sort of fizzled out….there seemed to be potential for at least 2 friendships/romances which didn’t go anywhere at all. To be honest, I really couldn’t care less about Dotty. She had a bad time as a child, I know, but there wasn’t one redeeming feature about her at all. Anyway, I’ll always look forward to a new Faith Hogan book, so roll on the next one!
January 25, 2025
Another easy read by this author. Enjoyable.
February 24, 2025
Intriguing and emotional story set on a beautiful Irish island
June 14, 2025
A gentle read
A look at friendships old and new that reminds me of all the women in my life who anchor me.
A look at friendships old and new that reminds me of all the women in my life who anchor me.
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