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The Sisters of Hope Square
From the bestselling author of The Bookshop Ladies, Faith Hogan, comes a wonderfully gripping and poignant story of two sisters and their family hotel on peaceful Pin Hill Island, once a thriving family business now struggling to survive.
All Blythe Carney ever wanted was to become a hotelier and run her family's business, the Hope Square Hotel. But fate, and her grandfather, intervened and it fell into her younger sister Rae's lap, taking her dreams with it. Now Blythe owns Still Water House, the most exclusive guest house on Pin Hill Island, but she can't help but feel she's still not living the life she was meant to.
Rae Johnson had no interest in taking over the hotel, her dreams lay elsewhere, but when she ended up with the family business her sister had set her heart on, her sense of duty to continue their family legacy with her husband was too strong to ignore.
Now, fifteen years later, newly widowed Rae is struggling to keep the hotel afloat and she knows that selling it could be the final straw in her already fragile relationship with her sister.
What do you do when your sister lives the life that you'd set your heart on? And when the perfect storm is brewing, surely, it's time to put aside the jealousy and disappointment that can tear a family apart, and fight for the future you have always dreamed of?
PRAISE FOR FAITH
'A captivating read, written with warmth and elegance... the perfect escape!' - Evie Woods
'This is an absolute beauty... a book that will stay with me for a very long time' - Sally Page
'Prepare to get lost in this beautiful story, masterfully told' - Amanda Prowse
'So wonderfully life affirming... I always wish I could live in Faith's books' - Dinah Jefferies
All Blythe Carney ever wanted was to become a hotelier and run her family's business, the Hope Square Hotel. But fate, and her grandfather, intervened and it fell into her younger sister Rae's lap, taking her dreams with it. Now Blythe owns Still Water House, the most exclusive guest house on Pin Hill Island, but she can't help but feel she's still not living the life she was meant to.
Rae Johnson had no interest in taking over the hotel, her dreams lay elsewhere, but when she ended up with the family business her sister had set her heart on, her sense of duty to continue their family legacy with her husband was too strong to ignore.
Now, fifteen years later, newly widowed Rae is struggling to keep the hotel afloat and she knows that selling it could be the final straw in her already fragile relationship with her sister.
What do you do when your sister lives the life that you'd set your heart on? And when the perfect storm is brewing, surely, it's time to put aside the jealousy and disappointment that can tear a family apart, and fight for the future you have always dreamed of?
PRAISE FOR FAITH
'A captivating read, written with warmth and elegance... the perfect escape!' - Evie Woods
'This is an absolute beauty... a book that will stay with me for a very long time' - Sally Page
'Prepare to get lost in this beautiful story, masterfully told' - Amanda Prowse
'So wonderfully life affirming... I always wish I could live in Faith's books' - Dinah Jefferies
416 pages, Hardcover
Published June 4, 2026
About the author
Faith Hogan
14 books756 followersFaith Hogan is a bestselling author of twelve novels. She writes grown up women's fiction which is unashamedly uplifting, feel good and inspiring.
Her latest novel is The Sisters of Hope Square - 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
Her latest novel is The Sisters of Hope Square - 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 61 reviews
February 27, 2026
A return to Pin Hill where estranged sisters Rae and Blythe have set up in rival establishments . Their wished for lives were upstaged by their grandfather .There are undercurrents of coercive behaviour, jealousy, mother suffocation, distrust and a remaining element of faithfulness . The story unfold in different timelines and by different characters to slowly build the background to the current situation.
A slow start that gradually build to a fiery crescendo leading to eventual realisation
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy
A slow start that gradually build to a fiery crescendo leading to eventual realisation
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an advance copy
June 29, 2026
From her childhood, Blythe Carney longed to take over the family business, Hope Square Hotel, on Pin Hill Island. The hotel was in her blood, unlike her younger sister Rae, but when the moment for Blythe to step into her grandfather's shoes came, he gave the hotel to Rae. Blythe was devasted by this unexpected blow, and even though she inherited her family home Still Water House, which she and her husband Kip have transformed into a luxury guest house, she still feels something is missing from her life.
Rae Johnson was never interested in taking over the family business. Her sister Blythe was always the natural heir to Hope Square Hotel, but when love came calling in the shape of smarmy, ambitious hotelier Marcus Johnson, she found herself blindsided by her grandfather's plans. Their grandfather's betrayal opened up a gulf between the sisters that has never been breached.
Fifteen years later, Marcus has died leaving Rae with a raft of debts and no idea how to make the business pay. Her only option is to sell, but this might be the final blow that breaks the relationship between her and Blythe, who sees Hope Square Hotel and Still Water House as the legacy of her daughter Siggy...
There can be few relationships more complicated than that between sisters, and the brilliant Faith Hogan explores just about every inch of those complexities in this book, the second one of her Ballycove spin-off series set on Pin Hill Island.
The story weaves beautifully between the present, and the past, taking you on an emotional whirlwind that explores the twists of fate that have brought Blythe and Rea to a pivotal moment in their relationship that might finally bring their fragile truce crashing down. The voices of Blythe, Rae, Blythe's beloved daughter Siggy, and Blythe's husband Kip carry the threads of a story that has more than its fair share of tear-jerking family dramas.
Once close, and sure of the paths their lives would take, Blythe and Rae offer two sides of a messy tangle of heartache and recriminations. Blythe is the dominant character, and the trickiest to come to terms with, given her strong opinions and dogged determination to keep Siggy close, no matter how much you come to understand the experiences that have shaped her. It is easier to take Rae to your heart, who also had little choice in the overall scheme of things, and was saddled with a marriage that was not what it appeared to outside eyes. Caught in the crossfire sit Siggy, smothered by her mother's hopes and fears, and lovely Kip who has been gradually pushed to one side by Blythe's obsessions. There are lots of other characters to love, and to hate too (I see you, Marcus).
Faith works her magic by totally immersing you in themes of love, loss, sibling rivalry, betrayal, prejudice against outsiders, class, and sexism in this small community, echoing through the timelines and voices of her characters - always her specialty. My heart took a pounding through all the carefully-crafted turns, on the way to an ending suitably full of hope for the Sisters of Hope Square. I particularly enjoyed the thought-provoking way she echoes her themes in the parts of the story about Blythe and Rae's German grandmother and new arrivals Val and Danial. The appearance of familiar faces from the stunning first Pin Hill novel, The Women of Ocean's End, was a lovely bonus.
I always know I am going to need a boxful of tissues with one of Faith's books, and I think the combination of tender and poignant moments in this story might make this the most tear-jerking of her novels yet. I am already looking forward to the next one.
Rae Johnson was never interested in taking over the family business. Her sister Blythe was always the natural heir to Hope Square Hotel, but when love came calling in the shape of smarmy, ambitious hotelier Marcus Johnson, she found herself blindsided by her grandfather's plans. Their grandfather's betrayal opened up a gulf between the sisters that has never been breached.
Fifteen years later, Marcus has died leaving Rae with a raft of debts and no idea how to make the business pay. Her only option is to sell, but this might be the final blow that breaks the relationship between her and Blythe, who sees Hope Square Hotel and Still Water House as the legacy of her daughter Siggy...
There can be few relationships more complicated than that between sisters, and the brilliant Faith Hogan explores just about every inch of those complexities in this book, the second one of her Ballycove spin-off series set on Pin Hill Island.
The story weaves beautifully between the present, and the past, taking you on an emotional whirlwind that explores the twists of fate that have brought Blythe and Rea to a pivotal moment in their relationship that might finally bring their fragile truce crashing down. The voices of Blythe, Rae, Blythe's beloved daughter Siggy, and Blythe's husband Kip carry the threads of a story that has more than its fair share of tear-jerking family dramas.
Once close, and sure of the paths their lives would take, Blythe and Rae offer two sides of a messy tangle of heartache and recriminations. Blythe is the dominant character, and the trickiest to come to terms with, given her strong opinions and dogged determination to keep Siggy close, no matter how much you come to understand the experiences that have shaped her. It is easier to take Rae to your heart, who also had little choice in the overall scheme of things, and was saddled with a marriage that was not what it appeared to outside eyes. Caught in the crossfire sit Siggy, smothered by her mother's hopes and fears, and lovely Kip who has been gradually pushed to one side by Blythe's obsessions. There are lots of other characters to love, and to hate too (I see you, Marcus).
Faith works her magic by totally immersing you in themes of love, loss, sibling rivalry, betrayal, prejudice against outsiders, class, and sexism in this small community, echoing through the timelines and voices of her characters - always her specialty. My heart took a pounding through all the carefully-crafted turns, on the way to an ending suitably full of hope for the Sisters of Hope Square. I particularly enjoyed the thought-provoking way she echoes her themes in the parts of the story about Blythe and Rae's German grandmother and new arrivals Val and Danial. The appearance of familiar faces from the stunning first Pin Hill novel, The Women of Ocean's End, was a lovely bonus.
I always know I am going to need a boxful of tissues with one of Faith's books, and I think the combination of tender and poignant moments in this story might make this the most tear-jerking of her novels yet. I am already looking forward to the next one.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
3.5 stars
Thank you to Shannon from Head of Zeus for reaching out to me to offer a finished copy of The Sisters of Hope Square by Faith Hogan, which comes out on 4th June.
Summary:
All Blythe Carney ever wanted was to become a hotelier and run her family's business, the Hope Square Hotel. But fate, and her grandfather, intervened and it fell into her younger sister Rae's lap, taking her dreams with it. Now Blythe owns Still Water House, the most exclusive guest house on Pin Hill Island, but she can't help but feel she's still not living the life she was meant to.
Rae Johnson had no interest in taking over the hotel, her dreams lay elsewhere, but when she ended up with the family business her sister had set her heart on, her sense of duty to continue their family legacy with her husband was too strong to ignore.
Now, fifteen years later, newly widowed Rae is struggling to keep the hotel afloat and she knows that selling it could be the final straw in her already fragile relationship with her sister.
What do you do when your sister lives the life that you'd set your heart on? And when the perfect storm is brewing, surely, it's time to put aside the jealousy and disappointment that can tear a family apart, and fight for the future you have always dreamed of....?
The Sisters of Hope Square is a quietly gripping tale about two sisters, set on the island of Pin Hill, and is based around Still Water House, older sister Blythe's exclusive guest house, and the younger sister, Rae's hotel, which was once a thriving family business, but is now struggling to survive.
It's a compelling family story which goes backwards and forwards in time over different decades, and as it does so it reveals to the reader not only the many events which have shaped the characters' current situations, but also offers valuable insights to the behaviour and attitudes we see playing out.
The characters are complex and multilayered, but in the case of Blythe, even though I understood the reasons why she behaved as she did, I found her very hard to like, and could not condone her attitudes and actions.
The island setting is really appealing, and the author has created a strong sense of place - it really feels a lovely place to visit! It's her second novel to be set on Pin Hill Island - The Women At Ocean's End was the first - and it is actually a fictionalised rendering of Achill Island, located off County Mayo.
Faith Hogan is known for her uplifting, feel-good, contemporary women's fiction, and this latest is no exception. The storyline makes you ponder what it must be like to be living a life you didn't choose; having to leave behind the dreams you had because someone else has dictated the path your life will take. This happens to several of the characters in this novel, and it's in danger of being repeated down the generations.
This story of thwarted dreams and ambitions, has some very meaty issues woven into it, including coercive, controlling relationships; physical abuse; sexism; and racism, but this is all skilfully and sensitively handled, making it highly readable and a great novel to escape into. Perfect summer reading!
Thank you to Shannon from Head of Zeus for reaching out to me to offer a finished copy of The Sisters of Hope Square by Faith Hogan, which comes out on 4th June.
Summary:
All Blythe Carney ever wanted was to become a hotelier and run her family's business, the Hope Square Hotel. But fate, and her grandfather, intervened and it fell into her younger sister Rae's lap, taking her dreams with it. Now Blythe owns Still Water House, the most exclusive guest house on Pin Hill Island, but she can't help but feel she's still not living the life she was meant to.
Rae Johnson had no interest in taking over the hotel, her dreams lay elsewhere, but when she ended up with the family business her sister had set her heart on, her sense of duty to continue their family legacy with her husband was too strong to ignore.
Now, fifteen years later, newly widowed Rae is struggling to keep the hotel afloat and she knows that selling it could be the final straw in her already fragile relationship with her sister.
What do you do when your sister lives the life that you'd set your heart on? And when the perfect storm is brewing, surely, it's time to put aside the jealousy and disappointment that can tear a family apart, and fight for the future you have always dreamed of....?
The Sisters of Hope Square is a quietly gripping tale about two sisters, set on the island of Pin Hill, and is based around Still Water House, older sister Blythe's exclusive guest house, and the younger sister, Rae's hotel, which was once a thriving family business, but is now struggling to survive.
It's a compelling family story which goes backwards and forwards in time over different decades, and as it does so it reveals to the reader not only the many events which have shaped the characters' current situations, but also offers valuable insights to the behaviour and attitudes we see playing out.
The characters are complex and multilayered, but in the case of Blythe, even though I understood the reasons why she behaved as she did, I found her very hard to like, and could not condone her attitudes and actions.
The island setting is really appealing, and the author has created a strong sense of place - it really feels a lovely place to visit! It's her second novel to be set on Pin Hill Island - The Women At Ocean's End was the first - and it is actually a fictionalised rendering of Achill Island, located off County Mayo.
Faith Hogan is known for her uplifting, feel-good, contemporary women's fiction, and this latest is no exception. The storyline makes you ponder what it must be like to be living a life you didn't choose; having to leave behind the dreams you had because someone else has dictated the path your life will take. This happens to several of the characters in this novel, and it's in danger of being repeated down the generations.
This story of thwarted dreams and ambitions, has some very meaty issues woven into it, including coercive, controlling relationships; physical abuse; sexism; and racism, but this is all skilfully and sensitively handled, making it highly readable and a great novel to escape into. Perfect summer reading!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Sisters of Hope Square is a tender, quietly gripping story about family, legacy, and the dreams we carry long after life has pushed us in another direction. Faith Hogan captures the ache and beauty of sisterhood with such a gentle touch, weaving Blythe and Rae’s lives together in a way that feels both intimate and deeply relatable.
Blythe, with her polished guest house and carefully curated success, is a woman who has built a life she’s proud of, yet can’t quite shake the feeling that she’s living in the shadow of the future she once imagined. Rae, newly widowed and exhausted from holding the Hope Square Hotel together with fraying hands, is a woman who never wanted the legacy she inherited — but took it anyway, out of duty, love, and a desire to honour the family name. Their tension is beautifully drawn: not dramatic or cruel, but rooted in years of unspoken disappointment, misunderstood choices, and the quiet grief of watching someone else live the life you thought was meant for you.
Pin Hill Island is rendered with a lovely sense of place — peaceful, weathered, full of memories — and the hotel itself becomes a symbol of everything the sisters have lost and everything they still might save. As Rae faces the possibility of letting it go, and Blythe wrestles with the life she built versus the one she wanted, the story deepens into something warm and poignant. It’s about forgiveness, second chances, and the courage it takes to admit that the people we love can hurt us without ever meaning to.
This is a heartfelt, emotionally rich novel that explores the complicated ties of family with honesty and hope. Perfect for readers who enjoy character‑driven stories full of warmth, gentle drama, and the promise that it’s never too late to fight for the future you once dreamed of.
With thanks to Faith Hogan, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Blythe, with her polished guest house and carefully curated success, is a woman who has built a life she’s proud of, yet can’t quite shake the feeling that she’s living in the shadow of the future she once imagined. Rae, newly widowed and exhausted from holding the Hope Square Hotel together with fraying hands, is a woman who never wanted the legacy she inherited — but took it anyway, out of duty, love, and a desire to honour the family name. Their tension is beautifully drawn: not dramatic or cruel, but rooted in years of unspoken disappointment, misunderstood choices, and the quiet grief of watching someone else live the life you thought was meant for you.
Pin Hill Island is rendered with a lovely sense of place — peaceful, weathered, full of memories — and the hotel itself becomes a symbol of everything the sisters have lost and everything they still might save. As Rae faces the possibility of letting it go, and Blythe wrestles with the life she built versus the one she wanted, the story deepens into something warm and poignant. It’s about forgiveness, second chances, and the courage it takes to admit that the people we love can hurt us without ever meaning to.
This is a heartfelt, emotionally rich novel that explores the complicated ties of family with honesty and hope. Perfect for readers who enjoy character‑driven stories full of warmth, gentle drama, and the promise that it’s never too late to fight for the future you once dreamed of.
With thanks to Faith Hogan, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Just off the coast of Ireland, sisters Blythe and Rae Scott, live on Pin Hill Island, their grandfather Jack owns Hope Square Hotel and their parents and the girls live in Still Water House.
Blythe marries Kip Carney, an ex-rugby player and they have a daughter Siggy. Blythe is furious when she returns from having her baby and Marcus Johnson her sister’s boyfriend has taken her place in the hotel and Jack believes she should stay home and take care of her child. Blythe has always expected to run the family business, she met Marcus when she was attending college in Dublin (he was odd) and once he marries a gullible Rae and he takes what's rightfully hers. Blythe also blames Rae, who couldn't see her husband was conniving and by the time she does it’s too late, she’s lost her sister and stuck in a bad marriage.
Fifteen years later, Marcus dies, the hotel finances are a mess, Rae and Siggy try to come up with a solution to her problems and maybe she could sell part of the property and is worried how Blythe will react? Meanwhile Blythe is having issues of her own, her husband Kip is distant, he doesn’t agree with how she’s parenting Siggy, Blythe can’t see shes pushing them both away by her behaviour and she dislikes outsiders and teenager Danial Val.
I received a copy of The Sister of Hope Square by Faith Hogan from Aria & Aries and NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review. The author has sold millions of novels including The Women at Ocean’s End which I read and loved. A narrative about family dynamics, duty, jealousy, resentment, being a snob, racism, coercive control, going too far and forgiveness.
Five stars from me, what's between the pages of this book is as stunning as the cover and I highly recommend.
Blythe marries Kip Carney, an ex-rugby player and they have a daughter Siggy. Blythe is furious when she returns from having her baby and Marcus Johnson her sister’s boyfriend has taken her place in the hotel and Jack believes she should stay home and take care of her child. Blythe has always expected to run the family business, she met Marcus when she was attending college in Dublin (he was odd) and once he marries a gullible Rae and he takes what's rightfully hers. Blythe also blames Rae, who couldn't see her husband was conniving and by the time she does it’s too late, she’s lost her sister and stuck in a bad marriage.
Fifteen years later, Marcus dies, the hotel finances are a mess, Rae and Siggy try to come up with a solution to her problems and maybe she could sell part of the property and is worried how Blythe will react? Meanwhile Blythe is having issues of her own, her husband Kip is distant, he doesn’t agree with how she’s parenting Siggy, Blythe can’t see shes pushing them both away by her behaviour and she dislikes outsiders and teenager Danial Val.
I received a copy of The Sister of Hope Square by Faith Hogan from Aria & Aries and NetGalley in exchange for an unbiased review. The author has sold millions of novels including The Women at Ocean’s End which I read and loved. A narrative about family dynamics, duty, jealousy, resentment, being a snob, racism, coercive control, going too far and forgiveness.
Five stars from me, what's between the pages of this book is as stunning as the cover and I highly recommend.
June 15, 2026
A poignant and captivating read exploring family, choices, sacrifices, regret, and the highs and lows of sisterhood. The past and present timelines, and multiple points of view, fully immerse the reader in the drama and uplifting events unfolding.
The brilliant writing conjures a wonderful sense of place as we return to the picturesque Pin Hill Island where all is not as it seems. Secrets and insights are skilfully revealed through the flashback chapters giving understanding and depth to the characters. You feel invested in how the chapters will play out yet I had no idea how it would end! I enjoyed the unpredictable, human quality to the story – the tensions and emotions simmering below the surface, the undercurrents of jealousy weaved through the pages, and the sense of hope created.
Blythe, Kip, and Siggy’s family dynamic seemed perfect on first impressions. As the layers are peeled back we see how Blythe’s experiences have led to distrust, suspicion and worry. The lens through which she sees the world was forever altered; she needs to be in control of everything and is extremely over-protective which creates distance with those she loves the most. As things come to an explosive conclusion, can Blythe let go of her demons and turn things around?
The fun-loving Rae meets someone who changes her life forever, what she thinks is a blessing soon becomes a living hell as family fractures deepen and isolation reigns. I loved seeing Rae coming out of her shell and learning to be her own person, like a chrysalis emerging ready to spread its wings and see what the world has to offer.
As they both work through their past to build the future they want, can they find their way back to each other?
If you’re looking for a feel-good read about taking back control of your life, following your heart, and finding happiness, this is the book for you. A great read that’s moving, honest, and warms your heart.
With thanks to @RandomTTours and @Hoz_Books for my copy and place on the Tour.
The brilliant writing conjures a wonderful sense of place as we return to the picturesque Pin Hill Island where all is not as it seems. Secrets and insights are skilfully revealed through the flashback chapters giving understanding and depth to the characters. You feel invested in how the chapters will play out yet I had no idea how it would end! I enjoyed the unpredictable, human quality to the story – the tensions and emotions simmering below the surface, the undercurrents of jealousy weaved through the pages, and the sense of hope created.
Blythe, Kip, and Siggy’s family dynamic seemed perfect on first impressions. As the layers are peeled back we see how Blythe’s experiences have led to distrust, suspicion and worry. The lens through which she sees the world was forever altered; she needs to be in control of everything and is extremely over-protective which creates distance with those she loves the most. As things come to an explosive conclusion, can Blythe let go of her demons and turn things around?
The fun-loving Rae meets someone who changes her life forever, what she thinks is a blessing soon becomes a living hell as family fractures deepen and isolation reigns. I loved seeing Rae coming out of her shell and learning to be her own person, like a chrysalis emerging ready to spread its wings and see what the world has to offer.
As they both work through their past to build the future they want, can they find their way back to each other?
If you’re looking for a feel-good read about taking back control of your life, following your heart, and finding happiness, this is the book for you. A great read that’s moving, honest, and warms your heart.
With thanks to @RandomTTours and @Hoz_Books for my copy and place on the Tour.
July 1, 2026
I am new to Faith Hogan books so I was intrigued to read The Sisters of Hope Square - and I very much enjoyed this emotional story about two Irish sisters and their complicated relationship.
Blythe Carney always thought she would take over the family hotel, Hope Square, on Pin Hill Island, with younger sister Rae having no real interest in the business. But everything changes when Rae falls for aspiring hotelier Marcus who worms his way into the family - and Blythe is blindsided when Rae inherits instead. She sets up a rival guest house - but the sisters' relationship remains a difficult one. And things come to a head when, following Marcus' death, Rae considers selling the debt-ridden hotel, something Blythe hoped would offer an opportunity to keep her daughter Siggy close to home.
With the story moving between past and present, and told from the perspective of both sisters, as well as Siggy and Blythe's long-suffering husband Kip, it is the story of two women whose lives are both hugely impacted by their grandfather's decision. It is hard not to feel for Rae who finds herself in an unhappy marriage and saddled with a hotel she never wanted. Blythe is somewhat more difficult to love as she smothers her daughter and pushes away her devoted husband - though she is clearly very much shaped by everything that has happened to her.
And whilst at its heart this is a story of sibling rivalry, the cast of supporting characters all bring something to the story as we learn about life in this small community where classism, sexism and suspicion about outsiders pervade everyday life. Add to that coercive relationships and it all makes for an emotional read that builds as it goes and ends on a delightfully hopeful note.
Blythe Carney always thought she would take over the family hotel, Hope Square, on Pin Hill Island, with younger sister Rae having no real interest in the business. But everything changes when Rae falls for aspiring hotelier Marcus who worms his way into the family - and Blythe is blindsided when Rae inherits instead. She sets up a rival guest house - but the sisters' relationship remains a difficult one. And things come to a head when, following Marcus' death, Rae considers selling the debt-ridden hotel, something Blythe hoped would offer an opportunity to keep her daughter Siggy close to home.
With the story moving between past and present, and told from the perspective of both sisters, as well as Siggy and Blythe's long-suffering husband Kip, it is the story of two women whose lives are both hugely impacted by their grandfather's decision. It is hard not to feel for Rae who finds herself in an unhappy marriage and saddled with a hotel she never wanted. Blythe is somewhat more difficult to love as she smothers her daughter and pushes away her devoted husband - though she is clearly very much shaped by everything that has happened to her.
And whilst at its heart this is a story of sibling rivalry, the cast of supporting characters all bring something to the story as we learn about life in this small community where classism, sexism and suspicion about outsiders pervade everyday life. Add to that coercive relationships and it all makes for an emotional read that builds as it goes and ends on a delightfully hopeful note.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a story of the past, the present and the future for The Sister of Hope Square. Set on an island off Ireland, two sisters, Blythe and Rae, had lived knowing who the Hotel was going to be passed on to. Blythe was part of the furniture of the hotel, whereas Rae wanted to work with animals. A meeting changed all that, and the once close sisters have drifted apart over the years. They still live close by, but the trust they once had has gone.
The author tells the fate of the sisters and their relationship over the years, the pressure placed on them by their grandfather, and what they put on themselves. Of how they have been manipulated and how they see themselves. Both are a presence in this small community, but how they deal with the present will dictate how the future could pan out. Things come to a head at the end of the book, and what follows feels appropriate in the outcome. Sometimes something extreme is needed to make people realise what they have and what they stand to lose.
This is a story of love, life, regrets, moving on and admitting how things through the years have changed. The author tells the story from the perspective of various characters, and it is a great chance to see different sides of a story and some of the smaller wrangling and the author keeps everything in check.
If you are looking for something that has family secrets and expectations set in the past and the present, then this is a book that I would be very happy to recommend.
The author tells the fate of the sisters and their relationship over the years, the pressure placed on them by their grandfather, and what they put on themselves. Of how they have been manipulated and how they see themselves. Both are a presence in this small community, but how they deal with the present will dictate how the future could pan out. Things come to a head at the end of the book, and what follows feels appropriate in the outcome. Sometimes something extreme is needed to make people realise what they have and what they stand to lose.
This is a story of love, life, regrets, moving on and admitting how things through the years have changed. The author tells the story from the perspective of various characters, and it is a great chance to see different sides of a story and some of the smaller wrangling and the author keeps everything in check.
If you are looking for something that has family secrets and expectations set in the past and the present, then this is a book that I would be very happy to recommend.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Lovely to return to Pin Hill, this time with Blythe and Rae who are sisters and both own a guest house/hotel on the island.
There's lot of family issues in this book. Blythe as the older sister expected to run The Hope Square Hotel, eventually taking over from her grandfather, but due to circumstances it went to her younger sister Rae. Blythe ended up with another family house that she turned into a guest house but she always felt as if she missed out on her dream of running the hotel.
Both get married and Blythe has a daughter, but neither are particularly happy with their lot. Blythe because she isn't running the hotel and because of an incident that happened to her when she was younger and moved off the island for a period of time, and Rae because her marriage wasn't as happy as everyone thinks because of her bullying husband, who has passed away.
When Blythe's daughter gets friendly with an 'outsider' who has moved to the island and then wants to move off the island to continue her studies, things come to a head and lives start unravelling as Blythe can't control everything anymore.
I really couldn't take to Blythe, even though I sort of understood her reasons, she was hard work, and her family were very patient with her controlling nature. Thankfully the rest of the characters were interesting. As usual a good read, with an explosive ending!
There's lot of family issues in this book. Blythe as the older sister expected to run The Hope Square Hotel, eventually taking over from her grandfather, but due to circumstances it went to her younger sister Rae. Blythe ended up with another family house that she turned into a guest house but she always felt as if she missed out on her dream of running the hotel.
Both get married and Blythe has a daughter, but neither are particularly happy with their lot. Blythe because she isn't running the hotel and because of an incident that happened to her when she was younger and moved off the island for a period of time, and Rae because her marriage wasn't as happy as everyone thinks because of her bullying husband, who has passed away.
When Blythe's daughter gets friendly with an 'outsider' who has moved to the island and then wants to move off the island to continue her studies, things come to a head and lives start unravelling as Blythe can't control everything anymore.
I really couldn't take to Blythe, even though I sort of understood her reasons, she was hard work, and her family were very patient with her controlling nature. Thankfully the rest of the characters were interesting. As usual a good read, with an explosive ending!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A lovely and sometimes sad story. It is about two sisters, Blythe and Rae, who have become estranged mainly due to them setting up two different hotel/guest house in the same place. Blythe always thought that her grandfather would gift her the hotel and she worked tirelessly to prove her worth. Blythe met Marcus and she thought he was the love of her life but that was not meant to be. On returning to Pin Hill to take over the business things changed. Rae met Marcus and as he knew about the hotel he made inroads to the grandfather to let Rae take it over with his supervision and marrying Rae to make sure things went accordingly to his plan. Rae did not realise at the time that this was his plan all along having met Blythe and she did not know until it was too late that he was a bully. Blythe took over the family home and made it into guest house and made it a success but the two sisters became separated by jealousy and loathing of Marcus on Blythe’s side. Things eventually improved when Rae was widowed but it took near bankruptcy of the hotel, a fire and an almost tragedy before the two of them reconciled. The book delves into many issues mainly of jealousy, hurt feelings and feelings of being let down. I enjoyed this book. The parts where Blythe’s husband and daughter are in the book were lovely and made the book more down to earth.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I have really enjoyed reading all Faith Hogan’s novels. This again was another 5 star read from me although it take me longer to both be invested in the story and characters.
The novel focuses on the sisters - Blythe and Rae and Blythe’s daughter, Sissy.
Blythe always expected to inherit management of the family hotel but after her marriage to Kit and the birth of Sissy, she is forced out. Instead her sister, Rae takes over after her marriage to Marcus - a former friend of Blythe’s from her college days.
Instead Blythe focuses on the development of Still Water House as a guesthouse. These events form a permanent rift in their relationship.
Rae - whose marriage was coercive and abusive - is forced to evaluate her future after the death of Marcus and the financial plight of the hotel becomes clear. She decides to sell up part of the hotel to allow redevelopment of the remainder.
As she is considering this - Blythe is facing a series of what feels like insurmountable issues - her relationship with her husband is fraying because of her overprotective nature towards their daughter; she is pushing her daughter away particularly over her relationship with an outsider; she cannot countenance the hotel being sold on to someone outside the family and her fear of outsiders is losing her friends.
Can the sisters find a way back to supporting each other and a new future?
A heartwarming story.
The novel focuses on the sisters - Blythe and Rae and Blythe’s daughter, Sissy.
Blythe always expected to inherit management of the family hotel but after her marriage to Kit and the birth of Sissy, she is forced out. Instead her sister, Rae takes over after her marriage to Marcus - a former friend of Blythe’s from her college days.
Instead Blythe focuses on the development of Still Water House as a guesthouse. These events form a permanent rift in their relationship.
Rae - whose marriage was coercive and abusive - is forced to evaluate her future after the death of Marcus and the financial plight of the hotel becomes clear. She decides to sell up part of the hotel to allow redevelopment of the remainder.
As she is considering this - Blythe is facing a series of what feels like insurmountable issues - her relationship with her husband is fraying because of her overprotective nature towards their daughter; she is pushing her daughter away particularly over her relationship with an outsider; she cannot countenance the hotel being sold on to someone outside the family and her fear of outsiders is losing her friends.
Can the sisters find a way back to supporting each other and a new future?
A heartwarming story.
May 26, 2026
I’ve read some of Faith Hogan’s previous books and they did not disappoint, so I knew I would really enjoy this one.
The book centres around sisters Rae and Blythe who ran The Hope Square Hotel. As the sisters get older, circumstances and life separates the sisters into running their own hotels. Rae’s husband passes and Blythe is fining it hard to let her daughter Siggy live her own life. When a family loves to the island, and burglaries begin to happen, can the community come together and accept everyone for who they are.
I really enjoyed this book, it dealt with some serious and relevant issues of immigration, prejudice and control and family ties, without losing the plot of the book. I really liked Rae as a character, she goes through a lot over the course of the story. Blythe is less likeable, is a bit of a loose cannon, speaks her mind and isn’t easily swayed. That said she has a few quips that made me shake my head while laughing.
For me it was a deeper read than I had expected, but very powerful, poignant and thoughtful. I really enjoyed The Sisters of Hope Square, it kept me engaged and gripped until the end. I would highly recommend this book.
Thank you to Aria and Aries and NetGalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
The book centres around sisters Rae and Blythe who ran The Hope Square Hotel. As the sisters get older, circumstances and life separates the sisters into running their own hotels. Rae’s husband passes and Blythe is fining it hard to let her daughter Siggy live her own life. When a family loves to the island, and burglaries begin to happen, can the community come together and accept everyone for who they are.
I really enjoyed this book, it dealt with some serious and relevant issues of immigration, prejudice and control and family ties, without losing the plot of the book. I really liked Rae as a character, she goes through a lot over the course of the story. Blythe is less likeable, is a bit of a loose cannon, speaks her mind and isn’t easily swayed. That said she has a few quips that made me shake my head while laughing.
For me it was a deeper read than I had expected, but very powerful, poignant and thoughtful. I really enjoyed The Sisters of Hope Square, it kept me engaged and gripped until the end. I would highly recommend this book.
Thank you to Aria and Aries and NetGalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Sisters of Hope Square by Faith Hogan is a captivating and deeply moving novel that centers on Rae and Blythe, two sisters who were once inseparable but found themselves torn apart by a man and the weight of their own distinct dreams.
Blythe always believed with absolute certainty that her destiny lay in taking over her grandfather's hotel, visualizing a life built around family legacy. Rae, on the other hand, harbored much quieter ambitions, wanting nothing more than to become a vet and spend her days in peace.
Hogan has carefully curated every layer of this book, beginning with the atmospheric setting of a small, windswept island just off the coast of Ireland, which acts as a character in its own right. The narrative unfolds through a skillfully constructed multi-POV and multi-timeline format, allowing the reader to fully grasp the depth of the sisters' history. As the layers are peeled back, a rich story emerges, one deeply interwoven with themes of betrayal, alienation, and long held secrets. Yet, at its core, the book shines brightest when exploring hope, forgiveness, and the beauty of second chances. For anyone who loves a beautifully written, emotionally resonant family drama, this is definitely one to read.
Blythe always believed with absolute certainty that her destiny lay in taking over her grandfather's hotel, visualizing a life built around family legacy. Rae, on the other hand, harbored much quieter ambitions, wanting nothing more than to become a vet and spend her days in peace.
Hogan has carefully curated every layer of this book, beginning with the atmospheric setting of a small, windswept island just off the coast of Ireland, which acts as a character in its own right. The narrative unfolds through a skillfully constructed multi-POV and multi-timeline format, allowing the reader to fully grasp the depth of the sisters' history. As the layers are peeled back, a rich story emerges, one deeply interwoven with themes of betrayal, alienation, and long held secrets. Yet, at its core, the book shines brightest when exploring hope, forgiveness, and the beauty of second chances. For anyone who loves a beautifully written, emotionally resonant family drama, this is definitely one to read.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is my 4th book by Faith Hogan, and the 2nd one set on Pin Hill Island, so it felt like coming home, just meeting new people. I was so excited when I saw that Faith had a new book due out soon.
What a wonderful cast of main and supporting characters Faith has created. Sisters Blythe and Rae, Blythe's husband Kip, their daughter Siggy are the main focus, with wonderful friends who support them.
Blythe always thought she would take over the Hope Square hotel from her grandfather and all Rae wanted was to become a vet nurse, but life had other plans in store for both of them.
What a wonderful, kind, patient and caring man Kip is, supporting Blythe the way he does, even when he doesn't agree with her or understand her reasoning.
Not wanting to give away any spoilers here, but there are some very strong topics dealt with here, about women not being seen as strong enough to run a business as well as look after a family, domestic violence, criminal activity and racism. All have been handled delicately.
Thank you to Shannon from Head of Zeus, NetGalley and Faith Hogan for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.
What a wonderful cast of main and supporting characters Faith has created. Sisters Blythe and Rae, Blythe's husband Kip, their daughter Siggy are the main focus, with wonderful friends who support them.
Blythe always thought she would take over the Hope Square hotel from her grandfather and all Rae wanted was to become a vet nurse, but life had other plans in store for both of them.
What a wonderful, kind, patient and caring man Kip is, supporting Blythe the way he does, even when he doesn't agree with her or understand her reasoning.
Not wanting to give away any spoilers here, but there are some very strong topics dealt with here, about women not being seen as strong enough to run a business as well as look after a family, domestic violence, criminal activity and racism. All have been handled delicately.
Thank you to Shannon from Head of Zeus, NetGalley and Faith Hogan for the digital ARC. All opinions are my own.
June 29, 2026
This story centres around two sisters, and a hotel one wishes to have inherit, while the other doesn’t. Yet things pan out completely differently to what either of them want!
This one did take me quite a while to get into, but that’s because there is a lot of history to learn about the characters and where they live. The story moves between the past and present and will have you wondering how it all comes together.
For me, the last third really pulled me in. As events from the past caught up to present time and the characters made decisions (wrong and right!) it really had me hooked.
There were lots of times I wanted to shout at Blythe as she tries to control people lives, especially that of her daughter. Her intentions are easy to see, but how she goes about it will have you loosing trust in her.
I really felt for Rae, having lived most of her adult life in a coercive relationship, I wanted to rewind the time for her and let her take a different path.
All in all a nice book, a little slower and harder to get into than previous books from this author, but enjoyable all the same.
3.5 stars
June 12, 2026
This is a gripping family drama following two sisters, as they navigate turbulent relationships whilst following their paths in the hotel world.
I really liked the setting of the story on Pin Hill Island and it really gave a sense of community spirit. Both Still Water House and the hotel sound like beautiful places to stay, but the hotel held a real sense of charm, character and community.
The relationship between Bylthe & Rae is complicated and each of them were so diverse and multilayered. The dual timeline worked so well in regards to this, as it created background on the story and highlighted to the reader the actions that took place, which led to the relationship they have in the present. I really connected with Rae and couldn't help but dislike Bylthe and the way she treats Siggy.
The story spoke of many important topics, but these were done so in a way that was written well and allowed for an escapism read. The Sisters of Hope Square was a heartfelt story that promised hope, second chances and forgiveness and has me excited to read some more of Faith's books soon.
I really liked the setting of the story on Pin Hill Island and it really gave a sense of community spirit. Both Still Water House and the hotel sound like beautiful places to stay, but the hotel held a real sense of charm, character and community.
The relationship between Bylthe & Rae is complicated and each of them were so diverse and multilayered. The dual timeline worked so well in regards to this, as it created background on the story and highlighted to the reader the actions that took place, which led to the relationship they have in the present. I really connected with Rae and couldn't help but dislike Bylthe and the way she treats Siggy.
The story spoke of many important topics, but these were done so in a way that was written well and allowed for an escapism read. The Sisters of Hope Square was a heartfelt story that promised hope, second chances and forgiveness and has me excited to read some more of Faith's books soon.
June 16, 2026
Sorry to say that this was quite a let down, especially considering how much I've enjoyed several of this author's previous books.
Two sisters as main characters, but the POV also includes several side characters (daughter, husband ++). A feud, disagreement and one skater being given the family hotel to run, and not the other - A good enough reason to break a sisterly relationship and a promising premisse for a good family drama. But, unfortunately, Blythe's character is so unlikeble (which I normally don't mind in itself), and the problem with this is that it does not make any sense that she is so well liked by everyone. The ending made it even worse with her actions having no serious consequences and bringing everyone together. This level of instability would need serious treatment,. it's not something that would be "cured" by her ultimate crazy action. For me this made the whole stort feel very unrealistic.
Otherwise a pretty predictable and clicheed book: the plot, the characters, th way it's told with multiple POVs and multiple timelines.
Two sisters as main characters, but the POV also includes several side characters (daughter, husband ++). A feud, disagreement and one skater being given the family hotel to run, and not the other - A good enough reason to break a sisterly relationship and a promising premisse for a good family drama. But, unfortunately, Blythe's character is so unlikeble (which I normally don't mind in itself), and the problem with this is that it does not make any sense that she is so well liked by everyone. The ending made it even worse with her actions having no serious consequences and bringing everyone together. This level of instability would need serious treatment,. it's not something that would be "cured" by her ultimate crazy action. For me this made the whole stort feel very unrealistic.
Otherwise a pretty predictable and clicheed book: the plot, the characters, th way it's told with multiple POVs and multiple timelines.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Faith Hogan is becoming somewhat of a must read author for me. With the greatest respect you almost know what you’re going to get, it’s a comfort knowing you’re safe on an authors hands for a while, she’ll take you back to a beautiful place and into the lives of some new friends, there’s angst and turmoil but you know it’s all going to turn out ok.
This time we are back in Pin Hill and dropped into the story of sisters Blythe and Rae, whose relationship and legacy is in turmoil. We unpick the past and present alike in a bid to mend their bridges.
Warm, full of hope but not without sadness. Beautifully narrated by Flora Montgomery and there are some visits from other characters that you’ll recognise from other titles, I always love it when a familiar face appears.
A day well spent.
My thanks to NetGalley and Head of Zeus Audiobooks for the opportunity to review this ALC that will be released in June.
This time we are back in Pin Hill and dropped into the story of sisters Blythe and Rae, whose relationship and legacy is in turmoil. We unpick the past and present alike in a bid to mend their bridges.
Warm, full of hope but not without sadness. Beautifully narrated by Flora Montgomery and there are some visits from other characters that you’ll recognise from other titles, I always love it when a familiar face appears.
A day well spent.
My thanks to NetGalley and Head of Zeus Audiobooks for the opportunity to review this ALC that will be released in June.
May 24, 2026
As children Blythe and Rae were inseparable. They grew up in the shadow of the family hotel on Hope Square on a small island of Ireland.
Blythe goes off to Dublin to learn hotel management and meets Marcus, she’s very taken with him. But one evening as she’s getting ready to go out, burglars enter the flat and she is threatened and scared. Marcus picks her up and afterwards leaves her at the door, she feels he should have at least her safely in, check that the thieves had gone. She suffers as a result of the incident, and goes home, doesn’t even take her finals.
She finds herself pregnant and marries Kip, who is Siggy’s father. Everything changes when Marcus turns up and make passes at Rae. Suddenly nothing is the same.
The book bounces around in time, then and now, with each different perspectives from the different characters, which was fine and easy to follow.
Easy to read. Nice, cosy summer holiday story. I really enjoyed it.
Blythe goes off to Dublin to learn hotel management and meets Marcus, she’s very taken with him. But one evening as she’s getting ready to go out, burglars enter the flat and she is threatened and scared. Marcus picks her up and afterwards leaves her at the door, she feels he should have at least her safely in, check that the thieves had gone. She suffers as a result of the incident, and goes home, doesn’t even take her finals.
She finds herself pregnant and marries Kip, who is Siggy’s father. Everything changes when Marcus turns up and make passes at Rae. Suddenly nothing is the same.
The book bounces around in time, then and now, with each different perspectives from the different characters, which was fine and easy to follow.
Easy to read. Nice, cosy summer holiday story. I really enjoyed it.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Many thanks to Netgalley and Head of Zeus for the opportunity to read this book.
Blythe has always wanted to run the family hotel. Its been her dream as long as she can remember. Her sister Raye however wanted to work with animals and live a simple life. Somehow neither got their dreamS. Now years later they are each dealing with their own situations. Is there a way forward for the two sisters.
This was an interesting story full of heartache, love and betrayal. It jumps about from past to present to give us the whole story. Its mostly told by the two sisters but sometimes we hear from Siggy and Kip. The plot is simple but filled with lots of little details. The characters all have their own flaws but by the end you want a happy ending. Now the ending was not quite what I expected and yet it did come together so well. I liked Siggy as she tried to make her way through life and be there for everyone. A wonderful tale for a perfect summer read.
Blythe has always wanted to run the family hotel. Its been her dream as long as she can remember. Her sister Raye however wanted to work with animals and live a simple life. Somehow neither got their dreamS. Now years later they are each dealing with their own situations. Is there a way forward for the two sisters.
This was an interesting story full of heartache, love and betrayal. It jumps about from past to present to give us the whole story. Its mostly told by the two sisters but sometimes we hear from Siggy and Kip. The plot is simple but filled with lots of little details. The characters all have their own flaws but by the end you want a happy ending. Now the ending was not quite what I expected and yet it did come together so well. I liked Siggy as she tried to make her way through life and be there for everyone. A wonderful tale for a perfect summer read.
April 27, 2026
Blythe Carney has spent years building a life she never really wanted, after her dream of running the family hotel slipped into her younger sister Rae’s hands. Rae, meanwhile, never asked for the responsibility but took it on out of duty—and now, newly widowed and struggling to keep the hotel afloat, she faces the possibility of losing everything.
The story follows both sisters as they navigate old resentments, unspoken disappointments and the complicated ways family expectations shape a life. The setting is a real strength—Hope Square and Pin Hill Island feel warm, lived‑in and easy to picture—and the characters are likeable, even when they’re at odds.
You can more or less see the direction the story is heading, but that doesn’t take away from its charm. It’s a gentle, enjoyable read about family, forgiveness and finding your way back to the life you wanted.
A lovely 3.5/5.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Although Blythe was the one in her family who wanted to carry on their legacy by taking over the family-run hotel on Pin Hill Island, circumstances conspired to ensure that it was her younger sister Rae who was given the opportunity to do so, inevitably causing a rift between the two.
While Blythe has the distinction of owning the most upmarket guest house in the area, those wounds have never healed. And that rift may be about to be widened, since the death of Rae's husband means that she might not be able to continue running the hotel without him...
This is a charming, emotional and relatable tale about family, the dynamics of sisterhood, and the durability of the love, in its many forms. The narrator of the audio book makes the story an enjoyable experience, so this gets 3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
While Blythe has the distinction of owning the most upmarket guest house in the area, those wounds have never healed. And that rift may be about to be widened, since the death of Rae's husband means that she might not be able to continue running the hotel without him...
This is a charming, emotional and relatable tale about family, the dynamics of sisterhood, and the durability of the love, in its many forms. The narrator of the audio book makes the story an enjoyable experience, so this gets 3.5 stars.
I received a free copy of this book from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Having previously read The Bookshop Ladies and really enjoying it I was really happy to see the release of The Sisters of Hope Square and I listened to it on audiobook.
The story was set on Pill Hill Island focussing on the Carney sisters who were brought up in their family hotel and the lives that they were set to lead as future hoteliers themselves. Death within the family and choice of life partners were key to the paths that Blythe and Rae both took but unfortunately the closeness between the sisters as youngsters did not last.
Bitterness, financial troubles and relationships were always problematic to the two sisters and came at a cost.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading/listening to more from Faith Hogan in the future.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this audiobook.
The story was set on Pill Hill Island focussing on the Carney sisters who were brought up in their family hotel and the lives that they were set to lead as future hoteliers themselves. Death within the family and choice of life partners were key to the paths that Blythe and Rae both took but unfortunately the closeness between the sisters as youngsters did not last.
Bitterness, financial troubles and relationships were always problematic to the two sisters and came at a cost.
I thoroughly enjoyed this book and look forward to reading/listening to more from Faith Hogan in the future.
Thanks to NetGalley for providing me with a copy of this audiobook.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
As we return to Pin Hill island, Blythe isn’t living the life she’d expected - the family hotel she’d always hoped to inherit passed instead to her sister Rae. With her supportive husband - who everyone thought wasn’t quite good enough for her - Blythe has instead made a success of running Still Water House, a guesthouse that’s gained a well-deserved reputation for excellence. The hotel hasn’t fared so well - the sisters’ relationship has been damaged by the actions of Rae’s grasping husband, and the business is now facing collapse.
The story moves smoothly between past and present, through the significant moments that shaped the lives of both women - the mistakes they made, the parts played by others - and it’s a perfectly paced and entirely compelling read. The main characters have particular depth and complexity - the sisters might not always be likeable, but their history helps you understand the motivations for some of their more questionable decisions and actions.
It’s a story about thwarted ambition and its consequences, but it’s so much more than that. It’s also a quite stunning family drama, touching on a range of difficult issues with the author’s usual sensitivity, with the wrongs of the past often in fear of being repeated in the present. It’s also about forgiveness - understanding and reconciliation - and hits every emotional note with perfection. With some particularly dramatic moments too, it’s a read it’s easy to become entirely immersed in - I raced through it, the pages turning ever faster.
A stunning read - and a real personal favourite from an author who never disappoints.
The story moves smoothly between past and present, through the significant moments that shaped the lives of both women - the mistakes they made, the parts played by others - and it’s a perfectly paced and entirely compelling read. The main characters have particular depth and complexity - the sisters might not always be likeable, but their history helps you understand the motivations for some of their more questionable decisions and actions.
It’s a story about thwarted ambition and its consequences, but it’s so much more than that. It’s also a quite stunning family drama, touching on a range of difficult issues with the author’s usual sensitivity, with the wrongs of the past often in fear of being repeated in the present. It’s also about forgiveness - understanding and reconciliation - and hits every emotional note with perfection. With some particularly dramatic moments too, it’s a read it’s easy to become entirely immersed in - I raced through it, the pages turning ever faster.
A stunning read - and a real personal favourite from an author who never disappoints.
June 7, 2026
This is a wonderful book set on Pin Hill Island in Ireland. It centres around two sisters, Rae and Blythe and their past and present relationship. I loved the concept of the two rival accommodations - Hope Square Hotel which Rae runs and Still Water Guest House run by Blythe. Both establishments have history for the sisters as they grew up and married their respective partners. I enjoyed Siggy’s character, her close relationship with her Aunt Rae and her developing relationship with a new comer to the area. With themes of family, especially sisters and mother and daughter, betrayal, jealousy and legacy I was engaged throughout and I loved the ending. I am surprised that this is my first book by this author when I look at her extensive work. I will definitely look out for more of her books.
June 15, 2026
Blythe and Rae are sisters who grow up on Pin Hill Island, spending their childhood in the family hotel overlooking Hope Square.
As the elder sister, Blythe has always seemed destined to take over the hotel from her grandfather. Academically accomplished and highly organised, she appears the natural successor. However, unforeseen circumstances result in Rae inheriting the property instead, creating a rift between the sisters with devastating consequences.
This rich family drama explores a range of complex and challenging issues with sensitivity and emotional depth. Skilfully told through multiple perspectives and timelines, the novel gradually reveals the family's history and the events that shape their lives.
Captivating and, at times, heartbreaking, it is a compelling read that keeps the pages turning until the very end.
As the elder sister, Blythe has always seemed destined to take over the hotel from her grandfather. Academically accomplished and highly organised, she appears the natural successor. However, unforeseen circumstances result in Rae inheriting the property instead, creating a rift between the sisters with devastating consequences.
This rich family drama explores a range of complex and challenging issues with sensitivity and emotional depth. Skilfully told through multiple perspectives and timelines, the novel gradually reveals the family's history and the events that shape their lives.
Captivating and, at times, heartbreaking, it is a compelling read that keeps the pages turning until the very end.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A really enjoyable and absorbing read. The Sisters of Hope Square delivers exactly what I love in Faith Hogan’s books: great characters, emotional depth, and a story that quietly builds until you realise just how much is going on beneath the surface.
The dual‑timeline structure works brilliantly, revealing the layers of sibling rivalry, complicated family dynamics, and the more unsettling themes of manipulation and coercive control. The author handles these issues with great sensitivity.
The narration is excellent throughout — it brings the characters to life and adds warmth and nuance to both timelines.
A thoughtful, engaging novel with plenty to unpack.
I am grateful to the publishers and NetGalley for an advanced listener copy of this audiobook.
The dual‑timeline structure works brilliantly, revealing the layers of sibling rivalry, complicated family dynamics, and the more unsettling themes of manipulation and coercive control. The author handles these issues with great sensitivity.
The narration is excellent throughout — it brings the characters to life and adds warmth and nuance to both timelines.
A thoughtful, engaging novel with plenty to unpack.
I am grateful to the publishers and NetGalley for an advanced listener copy of this audiobook.
June 4, 2026
Blythe and Rae were close sisters growing up, but the men in their lives fractured their relationship, and it takes them a lifetime to realise this and fight for their sisterhood. Storytelling full of emotion, spanning the past and present, draws the reader into the family and its dramas. It has a poignant ethos full of missed opportunities. As the reader gradually comes to appreciate the characters and what has come before, the possibility of something positive within the family keeps you invested. I like the portrayal of the isle setting, with its isolation and insular community, the relatable characters, and the possibility of a happier future for the sisters despite what has happened.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Two sisters help run a family-owned hotel. Blythe dreams of inheriting her grandfather’s estate and continuing the family business while Rae has no interest.
In a picturesque rural Irish community, grief, love and family dynamics intertwine to create a plot with elements of sadness and betrayal. Family controlling what happens in others lives so they can’t follow their dreams.
A captivating emotional journey, demonstrating how everyone’s emotions and actions can influence other people’s dreams.
This emotionally powerful read keeps you turning the pages with a few twists and turns.
Highly recommended.
In a picturesque rural Irish community, grief, love and family dynamics intertwine to create a plot with elements of sadness and betrayal. Family controlling what happens in others lives so they can’t follow their dreams.
A captivating emotional journey, demonstrating how everyone’s emotions and actions can influence other people’s dreams.
This emotionally powerful read keeps you turning the pages with a few twists and turns.
Highly recommended.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I was asked by NetGalley to review this really emotional story recommend a box of tissues when you read this.
Blythe with her sister Rae are helping to run a family owned hotel. Blythe would love to inherit her grandfathe's estate and run thefamily business wheras her sister is not interested in this. Set in rual Ireland, there is family issues, controlling what happens so there is no dreams to follow. This story is emotionally charged with such sadness, betrayal and love thrown into the mix, with twists along the way ensuring the reader reads to the end.
Recomended read from Faith Hogan and due fdor publication June 4th 2026.
Blythe with her sister Rae are helping to run a family owned hotel. Blythe would love to inherit her grandfathe's estate and run thefamily business wheras her sister is not interested in this. Set in rual Ireland, there is family issues, controlling what happens so there is no dreams to follow. This story is emotionally charged with such sadness, betrayal and love thrown into the mix, with twists along the way ensuring the reader reads to the end.
Recomended read from Faith Hogan and due fdor publication June 4th 2026.
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