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Sea Salt Bay
Take Me Away
He never wanted her to leave. She didn’t know how to come back…The first in a gritty, emotional, small-town romance series set on the windswept Cornish coast, where the waves may crash—but hearts begin to heal.
When Hollywood actress Isla Quinn returns to Sea Salt Bay after exposing her predatory manager, she inherits her grandmother's cottage and a second chance with Kit Harding—the fisherman she left behind ten years ago, now a widowed single father harbouring wounds as deep as the Cornish sea.
When Hollywood actress Isla Quinn returns to Sea Salt Bay after exposing her predatory manager, she inherits her grandmother's cottage and a second chance with Kit Harding—the fisherman she left behind ten years ago, now a widowed single father harbouring wounds as deep as the Cornish sea.
406 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 14, 2026
About the author
Anna Bloom
46 books772 followersRomance without limits!
A book hoarder and coffee addict at heart Anna's main existence in life is to create beautiful words about exquisitely flawed characters. She's a slow burn Princess and all about working for that happy ever after, but she guarantees when you get it, you'll fall so hard you might never want to surface again.
Be prepared to oooh and aaah and squeal with delight as Anna takes you on a journey you are unlikely to forget.
Anna lives at in Surrey, the UK, with her husband and three children. She happiest writing (thinking of ways to make you swoon), drinking coffee and snuggling up on the sofa in the evenings for a binge of her favourite shows or reading in bed. She loves to chat with her readers on social media so if you love the words come and find her, she sure loves to talk.
Sign up for Anna's newsletter here and receive a FREE NOVEL The Truth About Love: https://www.subscribepage.com/AnnaBloom
A book hoarder and coffee addict at heart Anna's main existence in life is to create beautiful words about exquisitely flawed characters. She's a slow burn Princess and all about working for that happy ever after, but she guarantees when you get it, you'll fall so hard you might never want to surface again.
Be prepared to oooh and aaah and squeal with delight as Anna takes you on a journey you are unlikely to forget.
Anna lives at in Surrey, the UK, with her husband and three children. She happiest writing (thinking of ways to make you swoon), drinking coffee and snuggling up on the sofa in the evenings for a binge of her favourite shows or reading in bed. She loves to chat with her readers on social media so if you love the words come and find her, she sure loves to talk.
Sign up for Anna's newsletter here and receive a FREE NOVEL The Truth About Love: https://www.subscribepage.com/AnnaBloom
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
August 21, 2026
I received an advance copy of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.
3.70
When I requested this book, I was nervous. I loved the idea of a romance set in a small fishing town, but I’ve had my fair share of bad experiences with some of the expected tropes. I was also in a really bad reading slump, and I really didn’t want Anna (or any author, really) to take the blame for that.
Well... I liked it.
The book is fast-paced, fun, warm, and heartbreaking (I cried!), and it covers some difficult topics, like grief and what it’s like to be a young actress in Hollywood. It doesn’t go into too much detail, it’s not groundbreaking, and it doesn’t try to turn these issues into something incredibly deep, but I think it handled them well. After all, it’s a romance, and I appreciated the balance.
I especially liked the second chance romance. Some things happened faster than I expected, but honestly, I’ll take that over 500 pages of the same back and forth. I also loved the little snippets from the past, and I actually believed in their second chance, which is probably one of the most important things for me with this trope.
It’s surprisingly rare to get a reason for an earlier separation that actually feels valid. We came very close to the miscommunication trope here, but somehow I don’t feel like we ever fully crossed that line. At the very least, the author fooled ME, and that’s good enough for me.
And the town? Perfect. The found family? Loved it. The kid? Yeah, the kid got me.
I’ll definitely be checking out the next book. I actually have pretty high hopes for it.
Quotes:
"Cancer didn't care what we built. It just took."
"- Of course I remember. I've been away. I haven't had a lobotomy."
"- Social media is toxic. Don't let keyboard warriors who've never faced anything worse than a bad latte tell you what's true."
"- Let someone throw you a fucking rope for once. Instead of always trying to go down with the ship."
"- You are allowed to be here. In my bed, in my house, in my life. You don't need to keep one foot out of the door.
- Old habits.
- Break them."
"- Go. Chase it. See what you're made of.
- But what if I fail?
- Then you come home and try something else. That's what home is for, my love. A place to leave from. A place to return to."
3.70
When I requested this book, I was nervous. I loved the idea of a romance set in a small fishing town, but I’ve had my fair share of bad experiences with some of the expected tropes. I was also in a really bad reading slump, and I really didn’t want Anna (or any author, really) to take the blame for that.
Well... I liked it.
The book is fast-paced, fun, warm, and heartbreaking (I cried!), and it covers some difficult topics, like grief and what it’s like to be a young actress in Hollywood. It doesn’t go into too much detail, it’s not groundbreaking, and it doesn’t try to turn these issues into something incredibly deep, but I think it handled them well. After all, it’s a romance, and I appreciated the balance.
I especially liked the second chance romance. Some things happened faster than I expected, but honestly, I’ll take that over 500 pages of the same back and forth. I also loved the little snippets from the past, and I actually believed in their second chance, which is probably one of the most important things for me with this trope.
It’s surprisingly rare to get a reason for an earlier separation that actually feels valid. We came very close to the miscommunication trope here, but somehow I don’t feel like we ever fully crossed that line. At the very least, the author fooled ME, and that’s good enough for me.
And the town? Perfect. The found family? Loved it. The kid? Yeah, the kid got me.
I’ll definitely be checking out the next book. I actually have pretty high hopes for it.
Quotes:
"Cancer didn't care what we built. It just took."
"- Of course I remember. I've been away. I haven't had a lobotomy."
"- Social media is toxic. Don't let keyboard warriors who've never faced anything worse than a bad latte tell you what's true."
"- Let someone throw you a fucking rope for once. Instead of always trying to go down with the ship."
"- You are allowed to be here. In my bed, in my house, in my life. You don't need to keep one foot out of the door.
- Old habits.
- Break them."
"- Go. Chase it. See what you're made of.
- But what if I fail?
- Then you come home and try something else. That's what home is for, my love. A place to leave from. A place to return to."
August 14, 2026
4-4.5 Stars! This is the first book in the ‘Sea Salt Bay’ series and can be read as a standalone. The main characters are Isla and Kit. They were both wonderful characters and I was rooting for their HEA ending. Small Cornish fishing town, second chance romance with a few sexy times scenes. Loved Kit’s daughter Maisie, she was so cute. Sad moments but with a happy ending. I wanted to be a famous actress when I was younger but health issues stopped that dream. Maybe that was a good thing, what with everything Isla went through in this book. (Think Harvey Weinstein.) Totally worth the read! I really enjoyed this one and I’m looking forward to reading more from this author.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.*
*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.*
August 14, 2026
Just finished reading an advanced copy of a book that was just released today called, Take Me Away. This is about Isla, she spent her summers growing up in Sea Salt Bay with her grandmother, and fell in love with Kit the neighbor boy along the way. But she hasn't been back in 10 years, she is now a famous actress and is trying to get out of the spotlight for a little while. So going back to her grandmother's home that she left for Isla when she passed seems like a good place to lay low. Kit had told Isla to go for her dreams when they were young and in love 10 years ago, but he was heartbroken when she never once came back. Now he has built a life for himself, and is doing his best to raise his daughter Maisie, after his wife passed. The last thing he expects is for Isla to show up again after all this time, and for him to start to feel things he never thought he'd feel again.
This was such a heartfelt story, I felt so emotionally attached to these characters so quickly. I teared up multiple times throughout this because I just felt so connected to them and this story. They had both been hurt at different points in their lives, causing them to feel unworthy of love and that people always leave. But through this story they both healed and learned to open their hearts to love, it was raw, authentic, and so beautifully written. I absolutely couldn't put this book down, I just loved Isla and Kit so much! And can't forget about sweet and sassy Maisie, I absolutely adored her! I cannot wait for the next book in this series, to get more of this coastal cozy small town and these heartfelt characters! I really love this book! 🩷📚
Thank you to Anna Bloom, One More Chapter Publishing, and Netgalley for this ARC of Take Me Away, in exchange for an honest review.
This was such a heartfelt story, I felt so emotionally attached to these characters so quickly. I teared up multiple times throughout this because I just felt so connected to them and this story. They had both been hurt at different points in their lives, causing them to feel unworthy of love and that people always leave. But through this story they both healed and learned to open their hearts to love, it was raw, authentic, and so beautifully written. I absolutely couldn't put this book down, I just loved Isla and Kit so much! And can't forget about sweet and sassy Maisie, I absolutely adored her! I cannot wait for the next book in this series, to get more of this coastal cozy small town and these heartfelt characters! I really love this book! 🩷📚
Thank you to Anna Bloom, One More Chapter Publishing, and Netgalley for this ARC of Take Me Away, in exchange for an honest review.
July 15, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley, and One More Chapter for sending me an advanced copy of this book to read and review!
In between more complex fantasy or thriller books I love to read good old fluffy romance novels to cleanse my palate. When I opened up Take Me Away, I was hoping to do the same. I was not expecting the serious topics that this book dove into which included sexual assault, grief, and depression, among others. I was seriously crying before I had even made it halfway through the novel.
Take Me Away follows two characters: Isla Quinn is an Oscar winning golden girl of Hollywood, who has run home after supporting another actress in claims of sexual misconduct against her previous agent; the man who made her career. Kit Harding is Isla's first love, and is grieving the loss of his wife two years prior and raising their 8 year old daughter, Maisie. The story revolves around Isla and Kit finding one another again, and working through their present troubles together while they also deal with their pasts.
I found both characters well thought out and full of depth! The side characters (Nina, Jude, Ruben, Maisie, etc.) added a lot to the story in the way of comic relief, emotional support, and more. Even the ghosts of their past had substance, and the sea itself became a character in itself.
I really enjoyed this story, and cannot wait to get my hands on the next book in the Sea Salt Bay series!
In between more complex fantasy or thriller books I love to read good old fluffy romance novels to cleanse my palate. When I opened up Take Me Away, I was hoping to do the same. I was not expecting the serious topics that this book dove into which included sexual assault, grief, and depression, among others. I was seriously crying before I had even made it halfway through the novel.
Take Me Away follows two characters: Isla Quinn is an Oscar winning golden girl of Hollywood, who has run home after supporting another actress in claims of sexual misconduct against her previous agent; the man who made her career. Kit Harding is Isla's first love, and is grieving the loss of his wife two years prior and raising their 8 year old daughter, Maisie. The story revolves around Isla and Kit finding one another again, and working through their present troubles together while they also deal with their pasts.
I found both characters well thought out and full of depth! The side characters (Nina, Jude, Ruben, Maisie, etc.) added a lot to the story in the way of comic relief, emotional support, and more. Even the ghosts of their past had substance, and the sea itself became a character in itself.
I really enjoyed this story, and cannot wait to get my hands on the next book in the Sea Salt Bay series!
August 10, 2026
By 20% this had me HOOKED.
The tension between them was perfect-stressed me out but had me excited. It was still safe in the way that it was the right amount of predictability. The characters were likable and frustrating. By frustrating, I mean they showed there was room to grow, and they did just that.
ALSO, for flash back haters-there are none✨ None and the development was still there.
The only negatives I have is that it’s not mind blowing, and the drama could be, well, dramatic. Personally going into this, it was not unexpected.
If you love second chances, a small fishing town, and a single dad, I’d say this is for you.
🩷 Releasing August 14, 2026 (will be on kindle unlimited)
The tension between them was perfect-stressed me out but had me excited. It was still safe in the way that it was the right amount of predictability. The characters were likable and frustrating. By frustrating, I mean they showed there was room to grow, and they did just that.
ALSO, for flash back haters-there are none✨ None and the development was still there.
The only negatives I have is that it’s not mind blowing, and the drama could be, well, dramatic. Personally going into this, it was not unexpected.
If you love second chances, a small fishing town, and a single dad, I’d say this is for you.
🩷 Releasing August 14, 2026 (will be on kindle unlimited)
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
4.5⭐
1.5🌶️
I've always been a fan of Anna's writing as she never fails to pull on your heartstrings. This one came as no surprise and I simply adored Kit and Isla's story - filled with love, hope and second chances.
Isla was only seventeen when she made the hardest decision to leave her life behind in Sea Salt Bay to pursue an acting career. Fast forward 10 years, a scathing scandal conveniently brings Isla back to the only place she's ever felt like home. She uses this as the perfect opportunity to sort out the house her beloved late grandma (Maggie) left her, as well as avoiding the media scrutiny. Being back also means facing up to the one man she left behind all those years ago with promises to return back, but never did. Isla never did quite manage to get over him, despite him moving on.
It's not long before Kit receives news that Isla is back in town, which throws him for a loop. Despite saying goodbye to his late wife over two years ago, he still habors feelings for Isla that he simply refuses to acknowledge. This version of Isla is different - someone he no longer recognises and tries to keep her at arms length. His daughter is enamoured by Isla - the Hollywood star who happens to be in small town Sea Salt Bay - but Kit refuses to let his daughter become hurt when Isla decides to leave again.
Kit realises those close to him always leave in the end, and Isla is no different. It's not until circumstances throw them both together time and time again that the feelings they both thought were long buried resurfaces. Isla and Kit must chose if they want to give their relationship another go, but what happens when Isla's real reason for returning back to Sea Salt Bay is exposed? Will Isla be tempted to run away from the very best thing that's happened to her?
I was seriously rooting for Isla and Kit, especially for their second chance at making it work.
Isla has never stopped loving Kit, but has stayed away for various reasons that she deeply regrets. She instantly falls in love with Maisie, Kit's eight year daughter who is too wise for words (I absolutely loved her though!) and wonders if she never left all those years ago, would this have been her life?
Kit is no stranger to grief, especially after losing his wife, although I loved how big Kit's heart was. He wanted to be angry and upset at Isla for leaving and never once coming back, but he doesn't have it in him to say no to Isla. He was literally hook, line and sinker for her, typically like his daughter 🤭
Kit and Isla's story is definitely one for the books 💗 One of love, loss, grief, betrayal and learning to be happy again. I also adored the townspeople as well, who simply showed up for one another when it mattered the most.
Be warned though! You'll need tissues at the ready for this one 🤧
Thank you to Anna, Netgalley and HarperCollins for giving the opportunity to read this book in advance. All thoughts and opinions are my own 🫶🏻
1.5🌶️
I've always been a fan of Anna's writing as she never fails to pull on your heartstrings. This one came as no surprise and I simply adored Kit and Isla's story - filled with love, hope and second chances.
Isla was only seventeen when she made the hardest decision to leave her life behind in Sea Salt Bay to pursue an acting career. Fast forward 10 years, a scathing scandal conveniently brings Isla back to the only place she's ever felt like home. She uses this as the perfect opportunity to sort out the house her beloved late grandma (Maggie) left her, as well as avoiding the media scrutiny. Being back also means facing up to the one man she left behind all those years ago with promises to return back, but never did. Isla never did quite manage to get over him, despite him moving on.
It's not long before Kit receives news that Isla is back in town, which throws him for a loop. Despite saying goodbye to his late wife over two years ago, he still habors feelings for Isla that he simply refuses to acknowledge. This version of Isla is different - someone he no longer recognises and tries to keep her at arms length. His daughter is enamoured by Isla - the Hollywood star who happens to be in small town Sea Salt Bay - but Kit refuses to let his daughter become hurt when Isla decides to leave again.
Kit realises those close to him always leave in the end, and Isla is no different. It's not until circumstances throw them both together time and time again that the feelings they both thought were long buried resurfaces. Isla and Kit must chose if they want to give their relationship another go, but what happens when Isla's real reason for returning back to Sea Salt Bay is exposed? Will Isla be tempted to run away from the very best thing that's happened to her?
I was seriously rooting for Isla and Kit, especially for their second chance at making it work.
Isla has never stopped loving Kit, but has stayed away for various reasons that she deeply regrets. She instantly falls in love with Maisie, Kit's eight year daughter who is too wise for words (I absolutely loved her though!) and wonders if she never left all those years ago, would this have been her life?
Kit is no stranger to grief, especially after losing his wife, although I loved how big Kit's heart was. He wanted to be angry and upset at Isla for leaving and never once coming back, but he doesn't have it in him to say no to Isla. He was literally hook, line and sinker for her, typically like his daughter 🤭
Kit and Isla's story is definitely one for the books 💗 One of love, loss, grief, betrayal and learning to be happy again. I also adored the townspeople as well, who simply showed up for one another when it mattered the most.
Be warned though! You'll need tissues at the ready for this one 🤧
Thank you to Anna, Netgalley and HarperCollins for giving the opportunity to read this book in advance. All thoughts and opinions are my own 🫶🏻
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
4.5⭐
Take me away is a beautifully tragic but hopeful story of second chance love, strength and finding your people. Isla's life from a young age was heartbreaking being placed in a boarding school by parents who were to wrapped up in there lives to care about her. The only joy in her life was her summers in sea salt bay with her grandma Maggie and her friends Jude and kit. As she got older her friendship with kit turned romantic and her life became exciting as she was accepted into drama school with her dream of becoming an actress looking possible. Awhile later Marcus vale entered her life promising her fame and a shiny new life in Hollywood which she accepted in a heartbeat leaving kit behind. Years later she returns to sea salt bay broken and hiding from a life she doesn't recognise after inheriting Maggie's cottage after she passed away. Whilst Isla was away kit got married, had a child and built a life he was happy living but unfortunately 2 years previously he'd lost his wife to cancer and was a shell of the man she had known 10 years previously, raising his daughter and moving through life with grief and loss hanging over him like a dark shadow. Isla & kit's story broke my heart but then put it back together again leaving me feeling hopeful and stronger than before. Maisie kit's daughter is fantastically written and her head strong, beautiful, older than her years personality shines through in this story. Take me away made me laugh, cry, feel anxious, over joyed, hopeless and then full of hope as I read and I couldn't put it down. The characters, romance and general feel blow me away in a way I didn't expect and I'm excited to continue my journey in sea salt bay
Take me away is a beautifully tragic but hopeful story of second chance love, strength and finding your people. Isla's life from a young age was heartbreaking being placed in a boarding school by parents who were to wrapped up in there lives to care about her. The only joy in her life was her summers in sea salt bay with her grandma Maggie and her friends Jude and kit. As she got older her friendship with kit turned romantic and her life became exciting as she was accepted into drama school with her dream of becoming an actress looking possible. Awhile later Marcus vale entered her life promising her fame and a shiny new life in Hollywood which she accepted in a heartbeat leaving kit behind. Years later she returns to sea salt bay broken and hiding from a life she doesn't recognise after inheriting Maggie's cottage after she passed away. Whilst Isla was away kit got married, had a child and built a life he was happy living but unfortunately 2 years previously he'd lost his wife to cancer and was a shell of the man she had known 10 years previously, raising his daughter and moving through life with grief and loss hanging over him like a dark shadow. Isla & kit's story broke my heart but then put it back together again leaving me feeling hopeful and stronger than before. Maisie kit's daughter is fantastically written and her head strong, beautiful, older than her years personality shines through in this story. Take me away made me laugh, cry, feel anxious, over joyed, hopeless and then full of hope as I read and I couldn't put it down. The characters, romance and general feel blow me away in a way I didn't expect and I'm excited to continue my journey in sea salt bay
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Take Me Away is the first book in this new series by the fabulous Anna Bloom, and I absolutely loved my time in the wonderful seaside village of Sea Salt Bay. This story is the perfect introduction to village life and, more importantly, to its incredible residents. I already cannot wait to return.
You are going to need tissues! I can't imagine many readers making it through certain scenes without reaching for one. Emotional stories are my kryptonite, and there is no author quite like Anna Bloom when it comes to drawing every emotion from her readers. I always have high expectations when I start one of her books, and she has never once let me down - and I've read every one of them!
Kit and Isla's second-chance romance kept me completely glued to my Kindle. I was desperate to uncover the reasons behind Isla's return to Sea Salt Bay, while also getting to know Kit and discovering what a truly wonderful man he is. I connected with the characters from the very beginning, which only made the story even more engaging and emotional.
Both Isla and Kit face difficult real-life challenges throughout the novel, but there is one resident of Sea Salt Bay who shines particularly brightly and plays a vital role in helping them move forward. Her name is Maisie, and I have no doubt she will steal your heart just as thoroughly as she stole mine. Her words of wisdom are priceless, and her actions are simply adorable.
I highly recommend this beautiful, heartfelt story. You'll fall in love with the characters, the setting, and the journey they take. If I could pack my bags and visit Sea Salt Bay right now, I absolutely would!
5 stars
You are going to need tissues! I can't imagine many readers making it through certain scenes without reaching for one. Emotional stories are my kryptonite, and there is no author quite like Anna Bloom when it comes to drawing every emotion from her readers. I always have high expectations when I start one of her books, and she has never once let me down - and I've read every one of them!
Kit and Isla's second-chance romance kept me completely glued to my Kindle. I was desperate to uncover the reasons behind Isla's return to Sea Salt Bay, while also getting to know Kit and discovering what a truly wonderful man he is. I connected with the characters from the very beginning, which only made the story even more engaging and emotional.
Both Isla and Kit face difficult real-life challenges throughout the novel, but there is one resident of Sea Salt Bay who shines particularly brightly and plays a vital role in helping them move forward. Her name is Maisie, and I have no doubt she will steal your heart just as thoroughly as she stole mine. Her words of wisdom are priceless, and her actions are simply adorable.
I highly recommend this beautiful, heartfelt story. You'll fall in love with the characters, the setting, and the journey they take. If I could pack my bags and visit Sea Salt Bay right now, I absolutely would!
5 stars
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Rating: 5
Cry count: 1
This book was such an emotional rollercoaster from page one, which was navigated with such care. This book delicately, but truthfully, navigated grief, sexual assault, coercive control and mental health in a sensitive way.
Isla Quinn, the movie star returns to the small seaside town of Sea Salt Bay 10 years after her Hollywood debut. Not only does she return to her late grandmothers cottage that was left to her, but to her life, the people in it before she left.
In that 10 years a lot has changed, including her childhood sweetheart Kit Harding, who hasn’t forgiven her for leaving him and whilst his life had changed and moved on, can he forgive her? Can he let her back in? Can his family forgive her? Can she forgive herself?
I can’t say enough about Maisie, Kits daughter and how completely lovable, wise and cheeky she is! Anna wrote her so incredibly well I saw every smile, each drawing - including the Dragon-mermaid and the starfish!
The characters were real, raw and loveable. Amongst all the challenges that were thrown their way, there was joy, love and above all else hope. It was such a beautifully written book and couldn’t recommend this enough as your summer read!
This is part of Anna’s Sea Salt Bay Series which is releasing in August 2026 and needs to be on your list to read this summer! You know I’ll be diving into the next two books as soon as I can get my hands on them! 🤭
I’ve also now found a new author that I can’t wait to read more from! 💖💖
Cry count: 1
This book was such an emotional rollercoaster from page one, which was navigated with such care. This book delicately, but truthfully, navigated grief, sexual assault, coercive control and mental health in a sensitive way.
Isla Quinn, the movie star returns to the small seaside town of Sea Salt Bay 10 years after her Hollywood debut. Not only does she return to her late grandmothers cottage that was left to her, but to her life, the people in it before she left.
In that 10 years a lot has changed, including her childhood sweetheart Kit Harding, who hasn’t forgiven her for leaving him and whilst his life had changed and moved on, can he forgive her? Can he let her back in? Can his family forgive her? Can she forgive herself?
I can’t say enough about Maisie, Kits daughter and how completely lovable, wise and cheeky she is! Anna wrote her so incredibly well I saw every smile, each drawing - including the Dragon-mermaid and the starfish!
The characters were real, raw and loveable. Amongst all the challenges that were thrown their way, there was joy, love and above all else hope. It was such a beautifully written book and couldn’t recommend this enough as your summer read!
This is part of Anna’s Sea Salt Bay Series which is releasing in August 2026 and needs to be on your list to read this summer! You know I’ll be diving into the next two books as soon as I can get my hands on them! 🤭
I’ve also now found a new author that I can’t wait to read more from! 💖💖
August 14, 2026
Thank you NetGalley and One More Chapter for the ARC.
After being caught up in a Hollywood scandal, actress Isla Quinn returns to the Cornish village she spend her childhood summers to lie low.
Before she can find the solace she desires, Isla must confront her grief and face her ex-boyfriend Kit Harding; a widowed single dad who she left 10 years ago to pursue her acting career.
I don’t normally gravitate towards a second chance romance but this seemed interesting based on the premise.
Sea Salt Bay is well painted as a quaint little Cornish village with a strong sense of community; the residents look after their own, and it was interesting to see how Isla tried to weave back into a life there.
However, one of my main gripes was that I just didn’t feel the connection between the two main characters and didn’t feel invested in their journey. I think part of this was a result of Isla refusing to discuss anything she was feeling.
Additionally, the ending felt very rushed and the main conflict that provided the set up for the plot seemed resolved quite quickly, almost like an afterthought. Given the subject matter (big name director grooming a young actress) I wish this had been given more focus rather than relegated to a secondary plot point at the end.
After being caught up in a Hollywood scandal, actress Isla Quinn returns to the Cornish village she spend her childhood summers to lie low.
Before she can find the solace she desires, Isla must confront her grief and face her ex-boyfriend Kit Harding; a widowed single dad who she left 10 years ago to pursue her acting career.
I don’t normally gravitate towards a second chance romance but this seemed interesting based on the premise.
Sea Salt Bay is well painted as a quaint little Cornish village with a strong sense of community; the residents look after their own, and it was interesting to see how Isla tried to weave back into a life there.
However, one of my main gripes was that I just didn’t feel the connection between the two main characters and didn’t feel invested in their journey. I think part of this was a result of Isla refusing to discuss anything she was feeling.
Additionally, the ending felt very rushed and the main conflict that provided the set up for the plot seemed resolved quite quickly, almost like an afterthought. Given the subject matter (big name director grooming a young actress) I wish this had been given more focus rather than relegated to a secondary plot point at the end.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Isla is a successful film star who rushes back to her Cornish childhood holiday home, left to her by her grandmother, when there is a publicity backlash and wants to hide away. She literally bumps into her childhood boyfriend who she left behind all those years ago when she left to find fame. He is now a widower, mourning the death of his wife, and trying to bring up his 8 year old daughter and had no time for Isla.
This is actually quite a difficult book to read as it cover some very emotional subjects, but at the same time some really positive ones of friendships and forgiveness. There are some spicy moments, something I'm not too keen on normally, but they do fit into the story without just being there is spice up an otherwise dull story. I always love books set in Cornwall, I liked the main characters which isn't always a given, and this one also has a great cast of characters. In summary I really loved this book and am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
This is actually quite a difficult book to read as it cover some very emotional subjects, but at the same time some really positive ones of friendships and forgiveness. There are some spicy moments, something I'm not too keen on normally, but they do fit into the story without just being there is spice up an otherwise dull story. I always love books set in Cornwall, I liked the main characters which isn't always a given, and this one also has a great cast of characters. In summary I really loved this book and am looking forward to reading the next book in the series.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Isla Quinn era una actriz famosa que parecía tenerlo todo, pero de pronto su vida se desmorona cuando salen a la luz secretos del pasado. Después de años lejos, regresa a un pequeño pueblo costero donde pasó sus veranos, un lugar lleno de recuerdos que no sabe si le harán bien o la terminaran de romper.
Sabía que volver no sería fácil, pero le esta costando más de lo que creía ya que tiene que hacer frente a todas sus decisiones. La casa de su abuela sigue ahí, igual y diferente al mismo tiempo, y cada rincón le recuerda quién era antes de volverse alguien que ya no reconoce. También están las personas que dejó atrás, especialmente alguien que significó mucho para ella y que ahora tiene otra vida.
Mientras intenta ordenar su cabeza y lidiar con todo lo que evitó por años, Isla tendrá que decidir si sigue escondiéndose o si por fin enfrenta lo que pasó y lo que siente. No todo se puede arreglar, pero a veces volver es el primer paso para dejar de huir.
Gracias NetGalley y al publicista por el ARC.
Sabía que volver no sería fácil, pero le esta costando más de lo que creía ya que tiene que hacer frente a todas sus decisiones. La casa de su abuela sigue ahí, igual y diferente al mismo tiempo, y cada rincón le recuerda quién era antes de volverse alguien que ya no reconoce. También están las personas que dejó atrás, especialmente alguien que significó mucho para ella y que ahora tiene otra vida.
Mientras intenta ordenar su cabeza y lidiar con todo lo que evitó por años, Isla tendrá que decidir si sigue escondiéndose o si por fin enfrenta lo que pasó y lo que siente. No todo se puede arreglar, pero a veces volver es el primer paso para dejar de huir.
Gracias NetGalley y al publicista por el ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Take Me Away
Sea Salt Bay, Book 1
by Anna Bloom
Pub Date: 14 Aug 2026
This is the kind of story that quietly pulls you in and settles under your skin.
Set against the windswept Cornish coast, Take Me Away delivers a beautifully emotional second-chance romance filled with grief, healing, and the weight of past choices. The setting alone adds so much atmosphere—you can almost feel the sea air and the ache of memories tied to it.
Isla and Kit’s story is tender and complicated. Their history feels real, shaped by time, distance, and loss. Watching them navigate those lingering feelings, especially with Kit now a single father, adds an extra layer of depth and emotional pull.
It’s not overly dramatic—it’s raw in a quieter, more reflective way. A story about coming back, facing what you left behind, and figuring out if love still has a place.
A strong start to a series for readers who love heartfelt, small-town romances with emotional depth.
Sea Salt Bay, Book 1
by Anna Bloom
Pub Date: 14 Aug 2026
This is the kind of story that quietly pulls you in and settles under your skin.
Set against the windswept Cornish coast, Take Me Away delivers a beautifully emotional second-chance romance filled with grief, healing, and the weight of past choices. The setting alone adds so much atmosphere—you can almost feel the sea air and the ache of memories tied to it.
Isla and Kit’s story is tender and complicated. Their history feels real, shaped by time, distance, and loss. Watching them navigate those lingering feelings, especially with Kit now a single father, adds an extra layer of depth and emotional pull.
It’s not overly dramatic—it’s raw in a quieter, more reflective way. A story about coming back, facing what you left behind, and figuring out if love still has a place.
A strong start to a series for readers who love heartfelt, small-town romances with emotional depth.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is a second chance, small town, heartfelt romance. Isla is a actress who is running from trauma, back to her gran's hometown to find herself. Kit is Isla's former best friend turned first love, who has had a decade to miss the girl who never returned. Dealing with heartbreak from his wife's death and raising his 8 year old daughter, Kit and Isla's reunion isn't what either of them expected. So many secrets and longing for these two to navigate, leads to an emotional storyline with a small town of found family!
Maisie, Kit’s daughter, is the star of the show. She has so much emotional intelligence and says it straight to her father and Isla making them see what is right in front f them. A love story that never went away, but is so pure and true.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for Take Me Away in exchange for an honest review. This is the first book in the series of this emotional and healing journey for the people in this small town!
Maisie, Kit’s daughter, is the star of the show. She has so much emotional intelligence and says it straight to her father and Isla making them see what is right in front f them. A love story that never went away, but is so pure and true.
Thank you to NetGalley, the author, and publisher for Take Me Away in exchange for an honest review. This is the first book in the series of this emotional and healing journey for the people in this small town!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A great small town romance. I love when the reasons for why the characters are in the positions they are in make sense. Isla left 10 years ago to pursue her dreams. Kit was a small town guy that hoped she would come back. When she didn’t, he moved on. When she found out he moved on, she stayed away. Life happened hard to both of them so when they reunite, they're familiar but completely different.
This book is a grab bag of difficult situations, which (if not triggering to you) makes an angsty, complicated, emotional story. This really works for me. Sometimes I want to see characters get pelted with more than they should be able to handle, because the pay off when they make it through to the other side is all the sweeter.
I definitely plan to pick up the other books in this series. I love the small fishing town the author created, and the townsfolk are all my friends now. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for Jude and then Nina.
This book is a grab bag of difficult situations, which (if not triggering to you) makes an angsty, complicated, emotional story. This really works for me. Sometimes I want to see characters get pelted with more than they should be able to handle, because the pay off when they make it through to the other side is all the sweeter.
I definitely plan to pick up the other books in this series. I love the small fishing town the author created, and the townsfolk are all my friends now. I can’t wait to see what’s in store for Jude and then Nina.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was such a sweet, emotional surprise.
I picked this up expecting a small-town second-chance romance, but I was pleasantly surprised by how deeply it explored heavy topics. Alongside the romance, the story tackles grief, depression, sexual assault, and other difficult experiences with compassion, giving the characters room to heal and grow.
The chemistry felt genuine, the emotional moments landed, and I appreciated that the characters weren't perfect. They made mistakes, stumbled, and slowly found their way back to each other.
If you enjoy second-chance romances, charming small-town settings, and love stories with emotional depth, definitely add this one to your TBR.
Thank you to NetGalley, One More Chapter, and the publisher for providing me with an eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts are my own.
I picked this up expecting a small-town second-chance romance, but I was pleasantly surprised by how deeply it explored heavy topics. Alongside the romance, the story tackles grief, depression, sexual assault, and other difficult experiences with compassion, giving the characters room to heal and grow.
The chemistry felt genuine, the emotional moments landed, and I appreciated that the characters weren't perfect. They made mistakes, stumbled, and slowly found their way back to each other.
If you enjoy second-chance romances, charming small-town settings, and love stories with emotional depth, definitely add this one to your TBR.
Thank you to NetGalley, One More Chapter, and the publisher for providing me with an eARC in exchange for my honest review. All thoughts are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This is small-town, angsty romance at its absolute best!
Holy emotions, Batman. As a sucker for small-town romance, this one broke my heart and stitched it back together again. The setup alone, grumpy fisherman, widowed, single dad, and a childhood best friend turned-lover then ex—had me hooked, but it was Isla’s journey that really stayed with me. Watching her find her strength again, reclaim her voice, and face everything she left behind was so powerful. The tension, the slow burn, the chemistry… I was completely invested from page one and couldn’t put it down. An easy five stars
Thank you to Harper Collins UK, One More Chapter and NetGalley for sharing an early copy with me. All opinions are my own.
Holy emotions, Batman. As a sucker for small-town romance, this one broke my heart and stitched it back together again. The setup alone, grumpy fisherman, widowed, single dad, and a childhood best friend turned-lover then ex—had me hooked, but it was Isla’s journey that really stayed with me. Watching her find her strength again, reclaim her voice, and face everything she left behind was so powerful. The tension, the slow burn, the chemistry… I was completely invested from page one and couldn’t put it down. An easy five stars
Thank you to Harper Collins UK, One More Chapter and NetGalley for sharing an early copy with me. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I’m always in awe of Anna Bloom’s writing—it’s lyrical, heartfelt, and able to draw out a character’s deepest emotions with such ease. I adore a second-chance romance done well, and Isla and Kit’s story delivers beautifully. On the surface, it may seem like the familiar “girl leaves boy to chase her dreams” trope, but what makes it shine is the raw vulnerability of the characters and the intensity of their emotions. Kit, in particular, stole my heart. He’s the perfect grumpy, brooding hero—guarded, hurt, and yet impossible not to love. The way he masked his pain when Isla came back made every interaction between them pulse with tension.
This was a touching, emotional read that proves Anna Bloom knows exactly how to breathe new life into classic romance tropes. Highly recommended!
This was a touching, emotional read that proves Anna Bloom knows exactly how to breathe new life into classic romance tropes. Highly recommended!
August 14, 2026
This may be a small-town, second-chance romance set on the Cornish coast, but rather than being cosy, it's an emotional tale that sensitively explores darker issues. Isla returns to the place she spent her summers as a child. She is a Hollywood film actor, but after supporting a young female actor in her claims against the actor's agent, she finds herself caught in a toxic media storm. There are many changes in the small coastal town, but her first love remains, much changed and unforgiving of how she treated him. I enjoyed the sense of community this story evokes, the emotional narrative that draws you into the characters' lives and the second chance to find love again.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.
August 14, 2026
Isla Quinn returns to Sea Salt Bay to the cottage that used to belong to her grandmother. Isla is an actress and has returned to escape prying media. Recently Isla supported a young actress who claimed sexual harassment from a film director. Isla’s own life was now under scrutiny.
I loved the way Isla’s story was told as she remembered her early years of staying with her grandmother at Sea Salt Bay and the friendships she had while growing up.
This was about life in a small seaside town, friendships, family relationships and sexual harassment. I loved the interactions between the characters. The pace was fast with lots of drama.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher One More Chapter for a chance to read and review this E-Book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I loved the way Isla’s story was told as she remembered her early years of staying with her grandmother at Sea Salt Bay and the friendships she had while growing up.
This was about life in a small seaside town, friendships, family relationships and sexual harassment. I loved the interactions between the characters. The pace was fast with lots of drama.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher One More Chapter for a chance to read and review this E-Book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
May 9, 2026
Arc Review
This is a second change friends to lovers romance book. Isla & Kits story is full of trauma and heartache. Isla is a famous movie star who is dealing with the back lash of Hollywood and goes back home to her gran’s home to escape reality for a while. Kit is a small town fisherman who lost his wife due to cancer and is raising his 8 year old daughter on his own. While I loved Isla’s and Kits story but honestly my love of this book goes to Maisie, Kit’s daughter. This was my first book by this author and it was a great read. I can’t wait to read the second book to this series! Thank you Anna Bloom & NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This is a second change friends to lovers romance book. Isla & Kits story is full of trauma and heartache. Isla is a famous movie star who is dealing with the back lash of Hollywood and goes back home to her gran’s home to escape reality for a while. Kit is a small town fisherman who lost his wife due to cancer and is raising his 8 year old daughter on his own. While I loved Isla’s and Kits story but honestly my love of this book goes to Maisie, Kit’s daughter. This was my first book by this author and it was a great read. I can’t wait to read the second book to this series! Thank you Anna Bloom & NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Having left the Cornish fishing village where her grandma lived at the age of 18 to gain fame as an actress Isla makes a lot of sacrifices.
Returning broken after the death of her grandma, hiding out from the press when she issues a statement in support of another actresses accusations against her famous director mentor. Threats of legal action and other consequences mean Isla keeps her guard up against old friends and loves.
Read this book and find the person behind the fame. It will make you feel lots of emotions and made me cry .
Enjoy I did and I will be looking out for more books in the series.
Returning broken after the death of her grandma, hiding out from the press when she issues a statement in support of another actresses accusations against her famous director mentor. Threats of legal action and other consequences mean Isla keeps her guard up against old friends and loves.
Read this book and find the person behind the fame. It will make you feel lots of emotions and made me cry .
Enjoy I did and I will be looking out for more books in the series.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I found this story to be a bit of a hard read. I found the subject of Isla being a whistleblower unsettling and her refusal to discuss anything annoying.
The characters were mainly interesting and the story progressed well. I thought the detailed sex scenes were unneccesary. A lot going on both in the seaside village and in Isla's life but I didn't really warm to the book. With thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the e-ARC to read and review.
The characters were mainly interesting and the story progressed well. I thought the detailed sex scenes were unneccesary. A lot going on both in the seaside village and in Isla's life but I didn't really warm to the book. With thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the e-ARC to read and review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A lovely second chance romance 😍
Kit and Isla found their first love together, but then Isla left and became a famous actress.
Kit was left broken hearted, but now Isla is back for the first time in 10 years, will he understand why she left and didn't come back? Will she be able to tell him?
There are dark emotional elements to this story and I love how Kit's family help him to do what's right!
Kit and Isla found their first love together, but then Isla left and became a famous actress.
Kit was left broken hearted, but now Isla is back for the first time in 10 years, will he understand why she left and didn't come back? Will she be able to tell him?
There are dark emotional elements to this story and I love how Kit's family help him to do what's right!
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I actually quite enjoyed this! Anna Bloom is a new to me author, but after reading this book, I'll definitely continue on the series. I think Jude is next, but I really hope Nina gets a book too!
This is a second chance, small town romance. Both characters have a lot of healing to do, but what better way to do it, then together?
This is a second chance, small town romance. Both characters have a lot of healing to do, but what better way to do it, then together?
May 19, 2026
I loved this! I was hooked from the start and loved every bit of it. I’m a sucker for a second chance romance and I feel like this was done well without flashbacks, I could feel the yearning and longing. I loved how Maisie was involved in a lot of it too. I’m happy everything worked out for Kit and Isla, especially Isla.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
A gentle romance story that's based on the Cornish coast and introduces a community of loveable characters amidst heartache, tragedy and second chances. I enjoyed reading the development of the story albeit some parts I didn't necessarily agree with the characters' choices but it made for an interesting follow as to where things would end up.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
This was a quick book! I was sucked into the story from page one. It was a little predictable but I couldn’t put it down. I liked all the characters and the location was lovely. If you like second chance romance definitely add this one to your list. It does have some spice too.
August 29, 2026
I couldn’t feel enough of a connection between Isla and Kit. I also couldn’t really take to Isla. Sorry - probably just me - not my cup of tea.
August 29, 2026
This was very emotional. RA
I want to live in a small fishing town.it was so emotional and heart breaking. Tissue needed and must read.
I want to live in a small fishing town.it was so emotional and heart breaking. Tissue needed and must read.
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