A Weekend on Allyson Island

by Susannah B. Lewis

A Weekend on Allyson Island is a heartwarming, humorous novel perfect for fans of RaeAnne Thayne and Elin Hildebrand where a group of five women come together in a mansion on the coast of Savannah to celebrate Moira's 50th birthday—and the things they've tried to keep hidden from one another along the way finally come to light.

Moira Allyson is about to turn 50, and her life doesn't look like she'd hoped it would. Her husband has passed away, and she misses her two sons now that they're away in college. Her financial stability doesn't help the loneliness, so she invites her four friends to come and spend the weekend in her in her extravagant waterfront mansion in Savannah, Georgia, to celebrate her 50th birthday. But the women bring their own sets of struggles, and what looks like the perfect getaway weekend on the surface starts to reveal the cracks and secrets in each of their lives. It will be the friendships they've relied on for years that will bring them strength and healing they didn’t know were possible.

With humor, empathy, and heart, Susannah B. Lewis weaves a compelling and compassionate story that reminds the listener of the hope amidst bleak times and the joy that comes from true friendship.

Genres: Fiction, Christian Fiction, Audiobook, Contemporary

288 pages, Paperback

First published December 1, 2025

About the author

Susannah B. Lewis is an author, humorist, and podcaster. She has written nine books, including Can’t Make This Stuff Up and How May I Offend You Today, both USA Today Bestsellers published by Thomas Nelson. Her work has been featured on Erma Bombeck’s Humor Writers, TODAY, and US Weekly, and her articles have appeared in Parents Magazine, Reader’s Digest, and more. She is the winner of the Southern Writers’ Magazine Short Story Contest and a recipient of the BlogHer Voices of the Year Award. Susannah also hosts the Moral of the Story Podcast, produced by AccessMore.

She lives on 90 beautiful acres in Tennessee with her husband, their three children, and a "whole bunch" of dogs and cats.

Reviews

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 4 out of 5]

New-to-me-author Susannah B. Lewis writes to highlight the joy of friendship, the power of vulnerability, and the strength of empathy. She shows us that female friendships are more than a social connection, but also a source of strength and understanding.

To showcase these bonds, Lewis introduces us to her main character, Mrs. Moira Allyson, as she’s planning a luxurious 50th birthday celebration at the waterfront mansion in Savannah, Georgia. She’s included her closest friends, Celia Stokes, Erin Pepperell, Nell Rehman and Gemma Gardner. Each is struggling to be understood and burdened when they arrive, but upon leaving, they agree that it’s been a soul-nurturing weekend.

There’s encouragement for each of us within the pages of this faith-filled story. It’s one I’ll read again and again. In a world where women are often pitted against each other, I liked reading a story about women who held each other up during the difficulties of life, contributing to lasting bonds.

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[JoJo_theDodo · Rating 3 out of 5]

If you like the Steel Magnolias vibe you will enjoy this story. If you are not fond of bible verses being quoted this story may not be for you. I have a habit of not reading the book blurbs because I like to be surprised and leave myself open to experiencing different adventures. I listened to the audiobook which is read by the author and it does feel as if you’re being read the story straight from the book, which is not as engaging as the story being performed by a voice actor. It seemed like a lot of different life challenges were crammed into one story and it took me a little bit to keep all the characters and their issues straight. One of the characters I found very irritating at times, but overall the story was enjoyable and had me wishing I could vacation on a island with some close friends. The ending was very touching and I found myself tearing up a little.

**Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to listen to this advance copy in exchange for my honest review.

[Sarah · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

This was an easy, enjoyable read with really relatable characters. I appreciated how each person was distinct enough that I never got confused about who was who, which can be tricky sometimes. Each character had a specific storyline and challenge they were going through - cheating, death of a spouse, children leaving the nest, helicopter parenting. I wish the author had made more distinct chapters with each character as a headline, but I could follow along regardless.

That said, Gemma’s character was a bit harder for me to like—she constantly mentions her weight, pokes fun at herself, and often cracks jokes in moments that felt like they needed seriousness. Reading her section made me pinpoint exactly what type of person she was.

One thing that surprised me was how much religion and references to God were woven into the story. It’s definitely more faith-forward than I expected, though given that it’s based in Georgia, I probably should’ve seen that coming.

Overall, it was a decent read with strong characters and a relatable story/group of friends, just with a little more faith focused and one character that was a little hard to like.

[Jo Lee · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Weekend on Allyson island is a nice enough read. Four southern women at varying stages in life each facing their own tribulations get together for a lavish weekend to celebrate Moira Allysons 50th birthday. Moira lives on a stunning island in a beautiful home surrounded by beautiful things but she’s as sad as she ever was she’s lonely and she’s drinking, can her 4 friends make her see that there’s still a life worth living?

The writing is lovely and the narration equally so, my only quibble is that the title is extremely faith heavy and I wasn’t expecting that, I wasn’t offended, each to their own but perhaps the book would be better placed as Christian fiction.

Huge thanks to Thomas Nelson and Zondervan fiction audio and NetGalley for the opportunity to review this audiobook 🎧

[Tamara · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Weekend on Allyson Island

A group of five women comes together in a mansion to celebrate Moira’s 50th birthday, and the things they’ve tried to hide from one another come to light.

Overall, I liked and enjoyed A Weekend on Allyson Island, they all had real life problems that all of us could relate to and they were all able to come to a place where they show their vulnerabilities and find healing and community with each other.

My gratitude to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson. All opinions expressed are honest and mine.

[Ellen Ross · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. I can’t even begin to describe how relatable this book is. I’m not the same age as the characters but close enough that it really resonated with me. A group of friends come together and the struggles they tried to keep private come to light and they end up relying on each other to help ensure and heal. Many of us try to keep our lives to ourselves when it comes to hardships but this book is a great reminder that we always need our support system to make it all better. The issues were relatable, the friendships beautifully written out between the characters, and the actual characters themselves are people I find I relate to in bits and pieces. I laughed, I frowned, I clutched this book to my chest. Not to mention, the setting was a beautiful escape as a reader.

[Meagan | The Chapter House · Rating 2 out of 5]

DNF at 20%. Too many POVs for me; proved distracting and hard to keep track of each character and their storyline. I couldn't really engage with them, and found Moira's ongoing alcohol issues problematic for me personally (I quit drinking ~7 years ago and prefer not to read about it at this point).

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

[Kayla - kaylasbooklist]

Dnf at 21%. Ladies are invited to a weekend party for Moira’s birthday. Several narrators introduce their daily lives and their relationship to Moira. While I was interested at first, I got tired of the ladies’ complaints and a bit bored. I decided life is too short to chug along reading a book I’m not wholly invested in.

Thank you Netgalley and Thomas Nelson for my advanced e-arc.

[Alyssa · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars!

This was a wholesome read! Obviously there were a lot of serious issues and topics that were discussed, but it was wonderful to see these women come together to help themselves become better people!

I liked the religious tone throughout the book.

It was a good one to listen to on audio!

I also loved the setting, that was my favorite part! All the talk of Lowcountry, Blue Ridge Mountains, Savanah, and Tybee Island was amazing! Especially because I’ve been to all of those places and they hold such a special place in my heart.

[Ifeanyi Omoike · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a story about friendship, second chances, and healing after loss. I closed the book with a sense of hope—and that’s a gift.

Moira Allyson is about to turn 50 and decides to celebrate the milestone with several friends, some of whom she hasn’t seen in years. Over the course of the weekend, buried emotions surface, old wounds reopen, and secrets come spilling out. We follow four of her friends as they face their own lives and Moira’s big birthday gathering.

The story made me reflect on how easy it is to overlook the grief others carry—whether it’s the loss of a loved one, a marriage, or even the loss of who we used to be. These five women walk through their pain with bravery, heart, and yes, some missteps along the way.

I was reminded of the power of friendship and the importance of having an inner circle. There’s something deeply comforting about knowing you have women in your corner—even if they’re imperfect and sometimes hurt you along the way.

Susannah B. Lewis tells this story with grace, heart, vulnerability, and realism. She doesn’t avoid the hard things, but she also made me laugh—and at one point, cry. She handled multiple points of view beautifully, giving each character a distinct voice and personality.

This was a thoughtful, hopeful read that celebrates friendship, the possibility of renewal after loss, and the truth that no situation is impossible to face when you have the Lord and the right people beside you.

Thanks to NetGalley and Thomas Nelson Fiction for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Elaine · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was quite a surprise for me!
Beautifully written about a group of women who know each other since childhood, plus one new addition… an unlikely one for sure, but who fits in seamlessly with the group!

Moira is celebrating her 50th with her friends… at her home/mansion in Savannah. They are all thrilled to come and spend time together, but each of them have their own secrets they’re holding on to.

Moira’s husband, the love of her life, recently died… and she has been falling apart ever since. And, her boys are pretty much grown now and out of the house… so she is also lonely.

She plans this weekend to try and escape from her head… and herself… and her loneliness. Instead, she finds that all of her friends have their own problems, too.

Can they open up to each other? Can they help each other? Can they all get by?

Who’s drinking? Who’s over eating? Who is being mentally and physically abused? Whose husband is cheating on her and not ashamed in the least? This book basically deals with any and all problems you could ever dream up… and how these friends, old and new, band together to help each other out!

Beautifully done. Zings right to your heart!

My only drawback, and this is my personal opinion only, is that the author narrates the book, and although she did a good job, I feel like it might’ve been better if she had someone else narrate for her. Again… my thought only.

4 bold, solid, heart-wrenching-at-times stars for me! 🌟🌟🌟🌟

#AWeekendOnAllysonIsland by @SusannahBLewis and read by the author.

This one has already been released, so please look 👀 for it on shelves now!

Thanks so much to #NetGalley, #ThomasNelsonFiction and #ZondervanFictionAudio for an ALC of the audiobook in exchange for an honest review.

You can also find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Instagram: @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine

Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️

[Billie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher, Thomas Nelson, for the opportunity to read “ A Weekend on Allyson Island �� by Susannah B. Lewis.

This novel is a quiet and tender exploration of relationships, memory, and the complicated ways we show up for one another. Set against the intimate backdrop of Allyson Island, the story unfolds with emotional honesty and a gentle sense of reflection that lingers long after the final page. Lewis beautifully captures the nuances of family dynamics and unspoken tensions, allowing each character to feel deeply human …flawed, loving, and searching.

I don’t often read books with faith woven throughout the narrative, so this was a refreshing and meaningful experience for me. I especially appreciated the way faith was portrayed through the characters’ support for one another. There is something deeply comforting in witnessing that kind of care and presence. It’s a reminder of what true friendship and community can look like.

The setting itself was another highlight. Allyson Island felt warm, inviting, and immersive, offering a lovely sense of escape even as a reader imagining it from afar.

The multiple points of view are handled with care and clarity. Each voice felt distinct, giving the characters depth and individuality while enriching the overall narrative.

What stood out most was the emotional undercurrent running throughout the story. The weekend-long setting creates an intimate space where past hurts and unresolved feelings naturally rise to the surface.

The writing is thoughtful and evocative without being heavy-handed, making this a moving and immersive read. “A Weekend on Allyson Island “ is ultimately a story about connection, forgiveness, and the courage it takes to face what we’ve been avoiding. I would highly recommend it to readers who enjoy character-driven, emotionally resonant fiction.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.

[Andrea C · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you Netgalley for providing me the E- ARC in exchange for my honest opinion

I think this book was not really for me, nothing against, it was nicely written story. We meet women around their 50s and their issues and worries in life. As I said, everything fine, just not for me, as I am in 30s and could not really relate. As well it was a bit slow and nothing really happened.
2,5 stars from me.

[Andi · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you NetGalley for an advance copy of this book with audio by the author. This is a friendship story of women gathering in Savannah for Moira’s 50th birthday. Each friend is going thru stuff, and things are revealed and brought to light over the celebration. The setting of Savannah was a lovely escape… one thing I didn’t like is it was a very God/faith centered… a bit too much as it got distracting at times. But overall a nice character driven story.

[Kaylen · Rating 1 out of 5]

I don't have an issue with religion, but it's not mentioned in the description of this book and there is a heavy undercurrent of religion all through the book, so I feel mislead.

I also thought the dialogue was silly and the writing was boring. Once I got to the halfway point I started skimming because I just couldn't do it anymore.

I received this copy by winning the Goodreads giveaway.

[Laura · Rating 3 out of 5]

I won this book through a Goodreads giveaway in exchange for an honest review. Thanks to TNZ Fiction for choosing me.

I enjoyed my time with these women, took my time with their journeys. My heart ached for them, I smiled for them and even cried for them. Its definitely going to be in the back of my mind for some time.

[Andi · Rating 3 out of 5]

What a gorgeous cover! A WEEKEND ON ALLYSON ISLAND is contemporary Christian fiction featuring five women spending a birthday weekend together for bonding and spiritual healing.

* Moira is the birthday girl celebrating her 50th. She is wealthy but lonely, having lost her beloved husband several years ago to an illness.
* Gemma is one of Moira’s high school friends. She struggles with her weight, and is constantly belittled by both her husband and herself.
* Celia Kate (CK) is another of Moira’s high school friends. She is an anxious wife and mom who spoils her family to the extreme.
* Erin is Moira’s housekeeper. She struggles financially after divorcing her abusive husband.
* Nell is Moira’s friend from church who is a recovering alcoholic.

This was a simple story of the power of faith and friendship. There’s no doubt this is Christian fiction, although some of the messages were a bit heavy-handed at times.

There are a lot of topics discussed, including alcoholism, fat-shaming, death, anxiety, domestic abuse, etc. I did feel it was a bit much, like the author was trying to cover as much ground as possible. I also failed to connect with any of the characters.

Even so, I enjoyed the overall message of friendship and healing.

🌟Thanks to the author, publisher, and NetGalley for a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.🌟

[Saff Often Reading · Rating 3 out of 5]

Thank you to Netgalley for this advance copy of A Weekend on Allyson Island. This was an enjoyable read about a group of female friends who gather together for a 50th birthday weekend. It is a character driven book, with each character fleshed out well and a clear picture of their life and individual challenges created. The bringing together of the characters for the weekend and the interactions that ensued encompassed drama, humour, sadness, loss, hope, and more.

The writing was incredibly descriptive, and this was particularly enjoyable in bringing the setting to life. A beautiful home on the water with an abundance of nature to enjoy, it was a peaceful setting which was a pleasure to read about and imagine.

What was somewhat unexpected for me was the theme of religion, prayer, and a belief in God that was evident in the book and seemed to become stronger as it developed. I would actually say that, while it is a book that can be enjoyed by non religious readers, it would probably benefit from being marketed as Christian fiction because I think it would particularly be of interest to and resonate with those of a Christian faith.

[Lori L (She Treads Softly) · Rating 3 out of 5]

A Weekend on Allyson Island by Susannah B. Lewis is a recommended women's Christian fiction novel set in South Carolina's low country.

After her beloved husband unexpectedly died three years earlier, Moira Allyson is having a 50th birthday celebration. She lives on a beautiful mansion on Savannah's waterfront and is known for her perfect parties. This weekend will be no exception, with catered meals, movie night in the home theater, massages, a cruise on a yacht, and more. She has sent out several invitations but those who accept are: Gemma, one of Moira’s high school best friends who struggles with her weight; Celia Kate (CK), another high school best friends who is a helicopter parent and anxious, Nell, a friend from church who had a falling-out with Moira over her drinking and is a former alcoholic; and Erin, Moira’s housekeeper who cares for and listens to Moira and struggles financially after divorcing her abusive husband.

The book ends up on a supportive note, being both hopeful and healing while celebrating the power of friendship. All of the problems are tackled Biblically. However, it also throws way-too-many problems at the reader, including death, alcoholism, adultery, fat-shaming, over-protectiveness, anxiety, poverty, domestic abuse, divorce, etc. It makes it difficult to connect with the characters. Perhaps It would be a more powerful book to have one or two characters with issues and tackle helping and supporting them rather than giving everyone major problems. Moira and Erin would have been good choices.

It is clear right from the start that Moira drinks way to much and is isolating herself while still grieving her husband's death. However, she needs some support in grieving. Three years isn't that long to still be grieving after being married for over twenty-five years. The intervention about her drinking is fine, but she needs support in other ways too. Help her find a support group for grieving spouses, not just alcoholism. Help her slowly clear out some of her husband's things when she is ready. Maybe love her where she is at and truly understand healing from some traumatic life events can be a journey.

Erin and her son needed support living and healing after she divorced her abusive husband. These women, beyond Nell who was supportive of all of them, were all in a place where they could have offered her some help in maybe finding a better job or place to live. Ultimately, she is helped by Moira, who, one would think, could have deduced her needs much earlier if she had been getting the help in grieving she needed.

The novel does end on an upbeat note where all the friendships are strengthened as the women bond and experience spiritual healing. A Weekend on Allyson Island is a good choice for those who enjoy contemporary women's Christian fiction. Thanks to Thomas Nelson for providing me with a complimentary advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2025/1...

[Atlas · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Weekend on Allyson Island
by Susannah B. Lewis

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to TNZ Fiction for the gifted copy! 🏝️💐💗

Vibe Check
• Southern warmth with a little sass 🌸
• Women’s fiction meets faith and friendship
• Bittersweet, cozy, and quietly funny
• Feels like a long talk with your best friends after a hard week

What I Loved
• The ensemble cast was heartfelt and real; five women, all flawed but lovable in their own ways. Their struggles (grief, marriage, empty nest, identity) felt deeply authentic.
• Susannah B. Lewis’s writing has heart and humor in equal measure. She captures the cadence of Southern friendship and the quiet heroism of everyday women.
• The book’s faith-forward tone was gentle and sincere. It didn’t preach—it comforted. You can feel God’s presence woven subtly through moments of doubt and hope.
• Moira’s birthday weekend became a metaphor for midlife renewal—grieving what’s lost while embracing what remains. I loved that balance.
• The conversations about aging, womanhood, and self-worth hit home in the most tender way.

What Didn’t Work for Me
• A few character transitions blurred together, I sometimes wished for chapter headers by POV to keep track of each storyline.
• One character (Gemma) occasionally felt overly exaggerated, breaking the emotional flow.
• The pacing slowed in the first half as each woman’s backstory was introduced.

Why You Should Read It
• You’re craving a character-driven story about women supporting women.
• You love Elin Hilderbrand, RaeAnne Thayne, or faith-based fiction with emotional depth.
• You’ve ever looked around and thought, “Thank God for my girls.” 💕
• You want something that’s hopeful without being saccharine, a reminder that even broken hearts can heal in good company.

Favorite Line

“The tides change, the light shifts, and the hurt doesn’t sting quite as much when you’re surrounded by the ones who remind you who you are.”

Final Word
A Weekend on Allyson Island is tender, faith-filled women’s fiction that celebrates friendship, forgiveness, and fresh starts. Susannah B. Lewis crafts a warm, relatable story full of laughter, honesty, and healing. A perfect book club pick or a cozy weekend read when your heart needs a little reminder of grace. 🌷☕💫

[Allison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Weekend on Allyson Island is a warm, engaging novel that invites readers into a reflective and emotionally rich escape. Set against the backdrop of Allyson Island, Susannah B. Lewis crafts a story that feels both intimate and relatable, focusing on relationships, personal growth, and the power of slowing down.

The novel centers on a group of characters brought together for a single weekend, each carrying their own worries, regrets, and unspoken truths. As the short span of time unfolds, Lewis skillfully explores how honest conversations, unexpected connections, and shared experiences can lead to meaningful change. I was able to identify with all of the characters in some way The dynamics in the group felt realistic and I could really relate to that too. I think we all attend the coming together of such groups at some stage and Lewis has encapsulated the experience.

The island setting enhances the story beautifully, providing a sense of isolation that encourages introspection while also offering moments of comfort and charm. I loved (vicariously) visiting Mo's for the weekend.

Lewis’ writing is heartfelt and accessible, with a strong emphasis on emotional authenticity. The characters interactions strike a balance between lighthearted moments and deeper, more thought-provoking themes. Friendship, self-discovery, forgiveness, and the importance of presence are woven naturally into the narrative.

A Weekend on Allyson Island is a thoughtful, feel-good read that reminds how even a brief pause from everyday life can offer clarity and renewal. It's perfect for fans of contemporary fiction that focuses on character-driven storytelling, this novel is an inviting escape with a lasting emotional impression.

The narration, with a southern drawl, was fitting and appreciated. I may be nit-picking, however, the pronunciation of some words, especially theatre, was irritating though.

Thank you to Netgalley and Thomas Nelson & Zondervan Fiction Audio for the copy of A Weekend on Allyson Island in exchange for an honest review.

[Rebekah Price · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: A Weekend on Allyson Island by Susannah B. Lewis
Releasing December 9, 2025

Susannah B. Lewis has once again delivered a heartwarming and humorous story that captures the essence of Southern charm, lifelong friendship, and faith. As a longtime follower of the author on social media, it was a delight to find pieces of her personality sprinkled throughout the book, like Easter eggs for devoted fans, whether it’s a Golden Girls mug, witty one-liners, or relatable Southern mannerisms that make the characters feel like old friends.

With her signature blend of laugh-out-loud humor and heartfelt moments, Lewis paints a vivid picture of a close-knit group of Southern Baptist women navigating life’s joys and heartbreaks. The banter between characters had me chuckling aloud more than once, yet the story also offers meaningful reflections on grief, healing, and the unshakable bonds of friendship.

True to her style, Lewis thoughtfully weaves faith into the narrative that is not in a preachy way, but as a steady, comforting presence guiding her imperfect, realistic characters through life’s messiness. The spiritual depth adds a beautiful layer to the story, reminding readers of the strength we can draw from leaning into our beliefs during times of sorrow and celebration alike.

By the final page, I found myself wishing I could join the group on Allyson Island, laughing, crying, and walking through life’s ups and downs together. A Weekend on Allyson Island is a moving, feel-good novel that fans of Christian women's fiction will not want to miss.

#AWeekendonAllysonIsland #NetGalley #SusannahBLewis

[Anne Wolters · Rating 5 out of 5]

As her 50th birthday approaches, Moira Allyson invites four of her closest friends to join her at her opulent waterfront mansion in Savannah, Georgia. Still grieving the sudden loss of her beloved husband, Jeffrey—who passed away three years ago—Moira finds herself confronting deep loneliness. Her two sons are away at college, and she hasn’t been able to part with Jeffrey’s belongings, not even his toothbrush, which remains untouched on the bathroom counter.
To make her milestone birthday unforgettable, Moira plans a luxurious weekend for her guests, complete with a private chef, engaging activities, and even a dinner cruise on the water. Each friend arrives expecting laughter, bonding, and the kind of soul-nourishing joy that only long-standing friendships can offer.
But as the weekend unfolds, not everything goes according to plan. Beneath the cheerful surface, each woman carries her own emotional burdens and unresolved struggles. What begins as a celebratory gathering soon becomes a poignant exploration of grief, growth, and the quiet resilience that anchors true friendship.
The five women at the heart of this story are vivid, endearing, and wholly relatable. The author beautifully captures the complexities of real life—love, loss, and renewal—with sincerity and heart. This is a touching and emotionally resonant tale that stayed with me long after I turned the final page.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All comments and opinions are my own.

[Heidi · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is so beautifully written! Susannah's writing style brought the Southern setting to life. From the beginning, I felt immersed in the story...like I was sitting outside the gorgeous waterfront home right alongside these women.

To me, the atmospheric setting is ideal for a novel about faith, friendship, and healing. Each woman arrives at the birthday weekend wrestling with a major life crisis. Their struggles are deeply relatable. I appreciated how authentic their stories felt, especially for women navigating midlife transitions.

One of the most impressive aspects of this novel is its unapologetically faith-based message. In a time when overtly Christian women’s fiction can feel rare (especially from major publishers) I was genuinely encouraged to see Susannah B. Lewis boldly include Biblical truth and a clear Christian worldview. The characters don’t just lean on each other; they turn to the Lord in their darkest moments. The author doesn’t shy away from pointing readers to hope, redemption, and the sufficiency of God’s grace.

A Weekend on Allyson Island is tender, uplifting, and deeply encouraging. It’s a celebration of friendship, faith, and the reminder that healing and new beginnings are possible at any stage of life. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys emotionally rich women’s fiction, especially readers looking for a story grounded in truth.

I requested a complimentary early copy of this novel. All opinions shared here are my own.

[Kelly Boggs · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have to say that I appreciate main characters who are married and over 30. Susannah B. Lewis tells of I have to say that I appreciate main characters who are married and over 30. Susannah B. Lewis tells of a well-t0-do woman wanting to celebrated her 50th birthday with longtime and current friends over a long weekend filled with pampering and fun. Each woman is dealing with her own issues and insecurities in life, ranging from financial, death of a loved one, abusive husband, addiction, and just the day-t0-day complications of life. I so appreciate the real life issues Lewis addresses with her character. The tension between friendships and the cattiness that can come between women relationships.

This is a Christian fiction book. I'm a Christian so I feel they way Lewis addresses faith seems normal to me. Some might think it's preachy/lesson-like if they don't label themselves religious although I thought the evolution, and conversations, and thoughts felt very realistic.

Lewis narrates her own novel. She has a cute southern accent that fits perfectly with the characters and setting of the book. I didn't mind it, but it did feel more like reading a book versus a actor narrating a professional audiobook.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review this book, the opinions expressed in this review are my own. I thoroughly enjoyed this book, I have never read anything by this author, I most certainly will look up previous works by this author, the story takes place at the main character beautiful estate by the water. Moira is about to celebrate her fiftieth birthday, a recent widow, somewhat estranged from her two sons, she invites her few close friends for a weekend at her estate with promises of plentiful food, drinks, sunset cruise, personal massages and plenty of conversation. The weekend is all of that , plus so much more, each woman has personal issues that come to light by the end of the weekend. This book has great character development, each woman’s personality shines through, it also presents the value of friendship, love and support that these women had for each other. I believe that the author has a great way of writing, the story flowed effortlessly, I am impressed with the inclusion of some Bible references, it added to the story. This story had insight, joy, and also some sad parts, but all in all I would highly recommend this book.

[Tina Plintz · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a captivating book that will keep you hooked, this is definitely the one for you. It’s a story about five women’s journeys through middle age, exploring how each copes and strives to improve their lives. The narrative tugs at your heartstrings on multiple levels. One woman grapples with being a helicopter parent, wanting her family to succeed but unsure how to let go of her insecurities. Another battles weight and an unsupportive husband. One finds solace in her faith, while another struggles to find her footing working two jobs, fearing for her and her child’s safety. Finally, one woman copes with the loss of her husband by turning to alcohol to escape loneliness. The only part I found challenging was the biblical sections. As a non-religious person, I could have skipped those, but I understand they represent a part of some people’s recovery journeys. Overall, this book will keep you turning the pages, rooting for the women to find paths to self-improvement and happiness for themselves and their families.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Susannah Lewis has become a must read for me, and she didn't disappoint me in this with A Weekend on Allyson Island. She tells another story of lives in the South and healing relationships all with a touch of humor.
Moira is a younger widow turning 50 and invites an eclectic group of women to celebrate on her private island with her. Moira's grief has led her to alcohol addiction and loneliness. The four women invited have their own hurts and struggles and we learn each of their stories. Together, they realize that not one of them could do it alone-they need God and each other.
Middle-aged woman will find themselves relating to one of these characters and the baggage they carry. Readers will enjoy the Southern setting and Lewis' trademark of humor in this novel. May also make them want to make changes in their own lives and reunite with old friends.
I received a complimentary copy of this book, but all opinions are my own.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Weekend on Allyson Island by Susannah B. Lewis is a touching, Southern-set story about friendship, loss, and renewal that feels like a warm hug in book form.

When Moira Allyson turns fifty, she plans the ultimate birthday weekend at her gorgeous Savannah waterfront mansion—complete with spa days, gourmet food, and her favorite women from every chapter of her life. But beneath the laughter and champagne, each woman carries her own quiet heartbreak. Over one unforgettable weekend, secrets spill, healing happens, and friendship takes center stage.

I loved the themes of sisterhood, resilience, and self-discovery, even when the story leaned a little Sweet Magnolias. It’s perfect for readers who adore women’s fiction, Southern fiction, beach house reads, or book-club discussions about midlife, motherhood, and second chances.

📚 Keywords: Southern women’s fiction, friendship fiction, midlife fiction, uplifting reads, coastal fiction, female friendship novels

[Nora St Laurent · Rating 4 out of 5]

Moira, a widow, wishes to break out of her funk. The idea of celebrating her 50th birthday alone struck her. She invites five of her close friends, who do not know each other well. Moira wants to pamper her friends, so she's hired a chef to cook meals, organized a short yacht excursion, and arranged a few more surprises. Little did they realize this weekend would change everything.

As women gathered to celebrate Moira's 50th birthday, the weekend unexpectedly turned into much more than that. These women discussed serious and complex real-life situations, which was pleasant to do with supporting friends. They reached a point in sharing where they could talk about their weaknesses while still maintaining their friendship. It was freeing. This book is about friendship, second chances, a natural faith message, and grief. These women learn that they could not have overcome their fears without the encouragement and support of their friends and God.