The Secret House in Orchid Bay

Orchid Bay #2

by Ann O'Loughlin

Kelly blinks back tears as she gazes at the wildflower meadows outside her window. In her trembling hands is a letter from beyond the grave, with a secret that could change everything forever…

Kelly’s heart is still in pieces following the death of her husband, Rob. As she opens the creaky gate leading to Orchid Hall, she draws a ragged breath, remembering her final promise to him to travel to Ireland. Desperate to understand his last wish, she hopes this house holds the answers she is searching for.

The glimmering sea and the gorgeous coves of Orchid Bay soon sweep Kelly off her feet. Spending long days and nights renovating the tumbledown house with the help of handsome local villager Mike, she slowly feels her heart beginning to open again. Did her husband send her here because he wanted to give her a fresh start by the wild Irish Sea?

But then a letter from Rob from beyond the grave turns everything she thought she knew on its head. In the pages of his letter, she uncovers the mystery of the house, and its true connection to her husband. The secret shakes her to the core and makes her question everything she ever knew about her husband. Will her husband’s past stop her from making a new life in Orchid Bay, or can she trust again, and take a second chance on love?

An utterly heartbreaking and page-turning read filled with Irish charm, perfect for fans of Susanne O’Leary, Tricia O’Malley and Mary Alice Monroe.

Genres: Fiction, Romance, Womens Fiction

337 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 15, 2026

Reviews

[Annette · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was an emotional story involving several characters. Each had their own back story. It moves fairly quickly, I almost read it in one day. I hope there’s a book three in this series. I was left wanting more.

[ErinTurnsPages · Rating 3 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the characters, but I did struggle with the timeline and some of the plot. There was a lot going on in this book and a lot of it was interconnected, but wasn't apparently so until later in the book. The first chapter is definitely a hook, but it also felt unnecessary and like pieces of it could have been scattered through the first bits of the book, chapter 2 could have been a great starting off point. My issues with timing, as I experienced in the other book by this author that I've read, were mostly in the beginning, but I did come across it a few times later on. There were multiple points where I felt like reading whiplash in that, didn't I just read something contradictive to what just happened? The one that I highlighted while reading was a reference to Kelly yelling at Maisie for picking dandelions in once scene and at the start of the next chapter she refers to it being a few days before, but it's been like fifteen to thirty minutes since it happened based on what is happening in the scene. Most of my issues stem from timing like that, it happening at one time and being referred to in a different timeline that doesn't track. Once you recognize that happening, it oddly makes the book so much easier to read, it feels like the author writes by scene and then pieces them together. I also wasn't sold on the letters from her husband. I think there's a reason they're typically from a partner dying of an illness like cancer. They felt very out of place in this scenario, though I appreciate the author trying to deviate from the same typical storyline.

That said, this book very much feels character driven versus plot driven. Many of the characters are very unique though a few feel oddly similar in that there are several characters from New York and a few who are dress designers. I loved Maisie and enjoyed Aunt Val. I enjoyed the storyline about young single Irish women being sent to convents to have and adopt out their babies, it did bring the story together full circle. I can't say this was my favorite from this author that I've read, but it was an enjoyable read nonetheless.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author via Netgalley and Bookouture in exchange for an honest review.

[Cindy Spear · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is another great Orchid Bay love story by Ann O’Loughlin that charmed and warmed my heart with its gorgeous Irish setting and wonderful eclectic cast of characters, who have plenty of quirks and foibles. It was easy to become emotionally involved and attached to each one as their lives unfolded.

Kelly is a gifted clothes designer who lives on the east coast of the US. When suddenly her husband of five years tragically dies of a heart attack in her arms, she not only loses the love of her life, but also her entire world shatters. He was young and seemingly a fit runner so this unexpected turn of events is a shock. With his last breath, he makes his wife promise to go to Ireland to Orchid Hall. She is shocked as she knows nothing of this property or why he has never told her about it before. Heartbroken but wanting to fulfil his last wish, she heads for Ireland. Her first encounter with a local is an odd one and those that follow are equally frustrating and humorous at times. As neighbours slowly dribble through her property, she is astonished at the lack of privacy. It seems a lot is harvested from her fields (like flowers and vegetables) that supply various establishments, like a restaurant and a nursing home. Then she learns that the man, Mike, she initially met picking her daffodils, is living in her garden area where he plants and harvests vegetables. (He has quite an interesting backstory that we eventually learn about but it is fun getting to know him.)

Since Orchard Hall was boarded up until now, it seems the community has made quite a feast of all it has to offer—including being a pathway/shortcut to the beach. It is not long before Kelly has an unexpected visitor from home. Her American Aunt Val turns up on her doorstep to stay with her and to help get the old homestead into shape. It needs restoration as it has fallen into disrepair. There’s no electricity or modern conveniences, so there is plenty of work to be done. Val not only livens up the place but adds quite a bit of colour to the social mix.

There’s a bit of PS I Love You activity in this novel as Kelly’s late husband arranges to have six letters sent to her after his death. These love notes are meant to help her move forward while dealing with her grief. They are poetic, romantic and moving. They show us the kind of man he was and how strong his love was for Kelly. A lot of their good memories are shared in the letters and advice on learning how to live after his death. They are meant to remind Kelly of what she meant to Rob and to encourage her to move forward without him. She hopes there will be one letter telling her how he got Orchid Hall and why had he not mentioned this to her when he was alive?

I loved the caring community, including the dog! The fiesty spirit, shown between neighbours. I enjoyed their humour and even laughed at their nosiness. I admired their determination to help Kelly and Val feel welcomed and settled into their new home. The community bands together and meets the challenge by chipping in to help.

This story is filled with lots of secrets and some amazing twists you might not see coming. It is beautifully delivered in Ann O’Loughlin style with lots of heart and Irish warmth and wit. There are themes of second chances, weddings and reunion bliss, family legacy surprises, and yes, some very sad events that are true to life. One message that weaves its way through out the story is: although death and loss will touch all of our lives in one way or another, never despair or give up. For through time and unexpected events and journeys—love, hope and healing can still be available to us through various people (even animals) and events IF we are open to the possibilities.

This is a memorable and tender story. Yes, it is steeped in grief and loss but also about new love and fresh beginnings. I highly recommend it. The flame of a past love may always burn in our memories. But a second flame can ignite and add a new space for love to shine that will allow all fires of love to shine and lead the way back to wholeness and happiness. Life can go on. 5 Stars. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a review copy.

[Angela Brown · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first book by this author - I had not read the first book in the series but that really didn’t matter in the slightest.

The book centres around Kelly - whose husband Rob dies very suddenly - his last words were ‘Go to Orchid Hall’. She has no idea what this means but seems able to give up her life in America at the drop of a hat including her home and her job as an elite dress designer and move with her eccentric Aunt Val to a small Bay in Ireland where she has inherited a house.

The house is very run down having been owned previously by Christina. Kelly also inherits Mike who lives in a chalet in the grounds and cultivates the land.

Rob has sent Kelly 6 letters - the first 5 expressing his love the last the reason why Orchid Hall came into his possession and his connection to Christina.

There were some inconsistencies for me - Christina had designer gowns, Hermes scarves and elaborate jewellery which Kelly just seems to lend or give out willy-nilly. The dresses did seem to play a minor part in the fashion parade but there was never any mention of how Kelly supported herself financially other than with Aunt Vals help.
The death of one character that had played a major part in the storyline happened not unexpectedly really but was dealt with in a very perfunctory way. We never did understand the cause of their demise.
I did find it odd that two American dress designers should find themselves in the same Irish area but had no connection to each other.

But the beauty of the orchid meadow - which I could well imagine being surrounded by orchids where I live on the North East coast in the UK - was healing for Kelly and allowed a tentative romance to flourish while Val goes all out and divorces and remarries in about 2 pages.

So although based on a real place in Ireland this book is best read as some escapism from the world today and taken with a slight pinch of salt. Nevertheless I was an enjoyable read and I did want to know what happened next.

I do feel that if for anyone the mention of forced adoptions and the Convents in Ireland would be a trigger then this author might be one to avoid.

[Caroline’s Page~Turners · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kelly’s life took a devastating turn when her husband, Rob, passed away unexpectedly. She grappled with the loss and wondered if her heart would ever heal. Determined to honor her promise to Rob, she embarked on a journey to Ireland.

Nestled amidst the breathtaking beauty of Orchid Bay, Kelly found solace in the shimmering sea. The sun’s rays danced upon the water, creating a mesmerizing display of shimmering diamonds. As she immersed herself in the serene surroundings, she began to experience a sense of healing she had been desperately seeking.

Kelly’s days were filled with the daunting task of renovating the dilapidated house that Rob had by the sea. She enlisted the help of Mike, a kind-hearted local villager, who became her confidant and companion. As they worked together, their bond deepened, and Kelly felt a glimmer of hope that her heart was starting to mend.

One fateful day, Kelly stumbled upon a letter from her late husband, revealing secrets that resonated within the house and unveiled the intricate connection between her husband and the house. This discovery sent shockwaves through her, but it also provided her with a deeper understanding of her husband’s legacy.

“The Secret House in Orchid Bay” by Ann O’Loughlin is a captivating tale that explores the complexities of heartbreak, the power of new beginnings, and the unexpected nature of love. I was deeply moved by Kelly’s journey and found myself drawn to her character. While I couldn’t help but feel sadness for her, I was also grateful for the role Mike played in helping her heal.

This book was a true tear-jerker, and I couldn’t get enough of O’Loughlin’s vivid descriptions. The author’s ability to transport readers to the enchanting landscapes of Orchid Bay and immerse them in the beauty of Ireland created an immersive reading experience. The villagers became like family, adding to the emotional depth of the story.

I highly recommend “The Secret House in Orchid Bay” to anyone seeking a heartwarming and thought-provoking read. It’s a story that will linger in your mind long after you’ve turned the last page, leaving you with a sense of hope and a renewed appreciation for the beauty of life.

[Amy Capewell · Rating 2 out of 5]

We meet Kelly on the worst day of her life. Her husband has died in her arms following a sudden heart attack and her world has fallen apart at the seams. But in the seconds before he dies he bestows a mysterious command for Kelly to go to Orchid Hall.
Our protagonist duly puts her entire life into storage and heads off across the pond, finding herself at the grand, but boarded up, Orchid Hall in Coolnamona, just outside Dublin. A secret property that her loving husband has never mentioned before.

With trunks stuffed full of vintage designer Dior gowns, jewellery boxes containing stunning gems and a drawer concealing an array of genuine vintage Hermes scarves, the mystery of Orchid Hall and its previous owner, Christina Young, grows.

A rag-tag band of local residents seemingly stream through the grounds of Orchid Hall, whether they are picking daffodils by the armful, using the grounds as a cut through to the sea or even heading home to their log cabin, which they have apparently constructed (without ne’er a whiff of planning permission) in the Hall’s walled garden. The Secret House in Orchid Bay is a tale of learning to live, and love, again after loss.

I wanted to love this book - the concept is sound and the blurb made me excited to dive in. Unfortunately I simply didn’t like it and found myself getting more and more frustrated as I read on. Dialogue doesn’t feel natural and the relatively large cast of characters remain two-dimensional and don’t fulfil their potential.
The story seems to jump from one scene to another suddenly, rather than smoothly transitioning. This is perhaps best illustrated with (spoiler alert) the death of a relatively main character. This comes out of the blue but is pretty much done and dusted within the space of a page and a half and lacks any real depth

All in all The Secret House in Orchid Bay shows potential but somehow feels like a preliminary draft, rather than a final, edited and polished manuscript.

[Rebecca · Rating 3 out of 5]

The Secret House in Orchid Bay is book two of the Orchid Bay series, but can very easily be enjoyed without having read the first book. Although I would like to read book one now as I'm very interested in Becky's story of how she came to live in Orchid Bay.

This book has a very sad start as Kelly loses her beloved Husband in the opening pages, but Rob left her an expected gift in the form of the beautiful Orchid Hall and through that gift Kelly is able to find herself and begin a new life in Ireland. The house definitely needs some work, but Kelly won't have to take it on alone as the community of Coolnamona soon rallies around, whether she wants it to or not!

Kelly's Aunt Val was a very memorable character as she's a force to be reckoned with. She came across as very controlling and bossy at times but I think deep down she had Kelly's best interests at heart, and she definitely had her own insecurities and worries.

I really enjoyed Rob's letters to Kelly and couldn't wait to undercover the mystery of his connection to Orchid Hall. Rob was insistent that Kelly visits the hall, but as he sadly passed away before he could tell her about it, there's a big mystery surrounding his reasons for doing so. Thankfully he'd arranged for letters to be delivered that soon explained all.

Another part of this book was the sad story of Maisie. Something about Kelly encourages Maisie to open up to her about the greatest secret of her life and whilst it was incredibly sad I loved that Kelly didn't hesitate to help her. Maisie was certainly an unusual character but it became clear that she had her reasons and I enjoyed uncovering them as Kelly gives her the confidence to finally stand up for herself.

Overall this was an emotional story with some very sad parts, but it was also full of community spirit and hope, with a big dose of cheeky Labrador energy in the form of Reggie! I loved watching Kelly start her new life and make new friends in beautiful surroundings.

[Robin Loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kelly is reeling from the devastating loss of her husband, Rob. Before his sudden death, he made her promise to travel to the Irish coast. Although why he asked this of her remains a mystery, she honors his request. Kelly is accompanied by her Aunt Val, with no idea just how much her life is about to change.

Orchid Bay is undeniably beautiful, but Kelly’s grief runs so deep that she can’t imagine ever feeling whole again. Then, shockingly, she receives a letter from Rob - and soon discovers there will be more to come. It becomes clear that Rob has a story to tell, one that not only explains his final request but gently guides Kelly toward a new future in Orchid Bay.

What a beautiful story. I fell in love with the idyllic village of Orchid Bay when I first visited it in A Secret Daughter from Ireland, and it was wonderful to return in The Secret House in Orchid Bay. There’s a quiet, healing magic woven into this setting - first for Becky in the earlier book, and now for Kelly. I especially loved the letters and how they serve as a bridge between past and present, playing such a meaningful role in the healing process. They truly make this story shine; one that is emotional, meaningful, and impossible to forget.

Many thanks to Bookouture and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.

[Charlotte · Rating 4 out of 5]

📆 single timeline.
👀 3rd person
🐢 -🐇 medium-paced
💬 "while the dust that is me may dissipate into the air, my love for you is everlasting. "

In the letter from the author at the end of the book, Ann says "The community at Orchid Bay has a way of wrapping itself around you." And that is so true. Now u just need someone to send me a mysterious letter telling me they've left me a house in a lovely coastal community!

This is the second book in the Orchid Bay community, and whilst some of the characters were in the first, this would also be perfect as a standalone book. The characters are a really mixed bag, some I immediately warmed to, and others I found rather irritating, much like real life. I really liked how there were lots of smaller stories running alongside Kelly's. I have to say that Maisie's was my favourite though, I can't say why without giving away a spoiler, but it was a theme that I'm a fan of.

This was a lovely easy read perfect for a spring afternoon!

[Liz · Rating 3 out of 5]

Interesting book about a woman who loses her husband and moves to Ireland when her husband makes her promise to go as he lay dying. I find the timeline in this a bit frustrating. It will say something happened a long time ago, but then it says it was just a couple weeks, or something happened yesterday, but that was several days ago. I found it a bit hard to keep up with and found myself flipping back a few pages to assure myself I had read that right the first time.

This was ok, it wasn't bad, but it's the second book in the series (and the first one I've read), so I've clearly missed something. Can this be read without the other book? You could, but you might be missing out on some information. If you could read the first book first, it would probably make some more sense, but you'll still have the weird timeline happening.

I received an advanced reader copy of this title from NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.

[Ann · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the author’s books, and they are go-to light reads for me, especially if I'm travelling or need a bit of a heartwarming uplift. The Secret House in Orchid Bay definitely ticks all the boxes.
I thoroughly enjoyed this and I was delighted to have the opportunity to reacquaint myself with the folk we first met in A Secret Daughter from Ireland. If I have one criticism, it's that the two plots are very similar: Americans with houses they didn't know they had, mysterious letters, and upping sticks to cross the Atlantic on a ‘wing and a prayer’ only to find oneself. That said it works, it does what it says on the tin and its predictability is a part of its charm.
It's another five stars from me and I'll be queuing up for the next one.

[DianeLikesToRead · Rating 4 out of 5]

🌟🌟🌟🌟
Kelly is heartbroken when her husband Rob unexpectedly dies. He makes her promise to go to Orchid Bay after his death. Kelly travels to Ireland to the house he left for her and works to unravel the mystery of WHY he sent her there. Then Kelly received letters that Rob had arranged for her to get after his passing.
I really enjoyed the first book in this series and this one was just as good! The letters tied everything together nicely. I can’t wait to “go back” to Orchid Bay. Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
#TheSecretHouseinOrchidBay
#AnnOLoughlin #NetGalley #BookLove #Bookstagram
#NewBook #ILoveBooks #BooksSetInIreland

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Secret House in Orchid Bay is the latest touching narrative from the talented Ann O’Loughlin

Kelly is heartbroken following the loss of her beloved husband, Rob. However, she remains determined to fulfill her promise of visiting Ireland, as she discovers Orchid Hall, a rundown property left to her by Rob. As she explores this beautiful corner of Ireland, along with her grief and Orchid Hall, can Kelly uncover the truth behind it all?

I loved returning to Orchid Bay. While reading the first book one isn’t essential, it will enhance your reading experience. I found myself completely engrossed once more, needing tissues as I became deeply emotionally connected to the narrative; the characters’ sorrow truly resonated within me.

I urge you to grab your copy as soon as possible.

[Elaine - Splashes Into Books · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been telling close friends of mine
That to miss out on this book would be a crime.
A heartbreaking page turner it really proved to be
With grief, fresh starts and mystery.

A promise made to her husband as he died
Leads to so many changes Kelly is totally surprised.
Could travelling to Ireland is the start
To help to heal her broken heart?

How did her husband own a house in Orchard Bay?
Why did he write letters telling her to stay?
How did he know what might happen at all?
And who are the strangers coming to call?

A fabulous story with romance, too,
As well as a brilliant community pulling through.
So many surprises along the way
An emotive read, I have to say.

For my copy of this fantastic book I say thank you
As I share with you this, my honest review.

[Diane Merritt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I needed a book that would pull me in with love and emotions and this one fit the bill. Loved Kathy and Val though Val was very come across grumpy at first..lol
The way this story weaved into sadness to wonderful new friends and love was just beautiful. It touched the heart and made you believe in love all over again.
I would love to walk to meadows it sounds so beautiful.
Then Christina and Maisie's story on top of it all... My heart.

Thanks to the author the publisher and Netgalley for a early release of this book

[Dee Groocock · Rating 5 out of 5]

Kelly lives on the east coast of America with her husband, Rob. Following his tragic and unexpected death, Kelly finds herself moving to Ireland, to a place that Rob had bought, called Orchid Hall.

Kelly is struggling to come to terms with her loss, she also doesn’t understand why Rob bought the property and told her nothing about it. With the help of her Aunt Val, they start to refurbish Orchid Hall.

I found this to be a beautifully written story, that was emotional at times.

The characters in the story were all fascinating, they all had their flaws, as well as their secrets.

With Kelly being a dress designer, I enjoyed picturing her designs in my head.

This is a story of grief, secrets, love and the added joy of seeing people moving on in their lives.

Ronnie stole the show in this tale, he made me smile with all his antics whilst being a mischievous dog.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

[Libby Reidy · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are looking for one of those books to keep you enthralled on a cold winter's day, this is for you. A woman who has recently lost her husband is shocked to find out that he has left her a home in Ireland. With her aunt accompaning her, the two both find new friends and unexpected romanaces. A book that will make you laugh and cry. (Also, a brief storyline involoving the home for unwed mothers in Ireland)

[Paula Pugh · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lovely cozy story warmly written to delight the reader and the senses. When a young widow learns she has inherited an Irish coast house from her husband, she and her rascal aunt leave America for a whole new world, a world of new friends, a beautiful but needy home, and a quaint Irish town. It is a genuine story of all kinds of love.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of the book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Shreyasi]

DNF because couldn’t really feel for any of the characters. Moreover there were way too many glaring errors, such as a dress designer not knowing a Hermes scarf when she sees one (but her uninitiated aunt does!). Then when they wear these scarves to a bday party they go unnoticed by a woman who is otherwise aware of their existence in the house the protagonist has just come to own. Basically if you’ve read this book you’ll know what I am getting at.
So no couldn’t get on with this one.

[Jennifer · Rating 3 out of 5]

I enjoyed it, although it wasn't my favorite book by the author.  The story was extremely similar to  "A Secret Daughter from Ireland.", which is the first book in the Orchid Bay Series.  Kelly and her Aunt Val could be swapped out for Becky and her best friend from New York.  Kelly and Becky are both dress designers and find themselves in Coolnamona living in houses they knew nothing about .  What's with people buying houses that their family doesn't know anything about until they die?  Then the family member gives up everything to move to said mystery house with no clue about it.  Naturally the house will be dilapidated, need work and have no electricity.  On the plus side,  the houses are always full of furniture, expensive jewelry and dresses.  Kelly and Val seem to get Orchid Hall up and running in no time.   I'm not sure how I feel about Rob's letters. Why not tell his wife what's going on instead of hiding it?  He had enough time to write all those letters but not actually speak to her?  I enjoyed the friendship between everyone. I enjoyed learning more about Maisie as her story unfolded.  She may have been a bit of a busy body, but wanted the best for her neighbor's. Poor Ronnie.  Maisie loved her dog so much.  I loved when Kelly found Ronnie and his "friend" making messes in her house.  

I definitely recommend the book. I felt like I was right there with Kelly and Aunt Val as they got the house ready. All of the people were lovely and immediately welcomed the women to the village, even though Kelly got mad at them for picking her daffodils.  I enjoyed the characters, writing style and story. I look forward to reading more books by the author.

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

[Margaret · Rating 4 out of 5]

A welcome return to Orchid Bay . This is a place that works its magic through the local people to make individuals in search of a new future find a way to achieve just that . A mysterious house with a history .

[Nicola “Shortbookthyme” · Rating 4 out of 5]

The story revolves around a secret house with so much history. And, why was the house kept a secret?????
I liked the main characters in the story. Each one brought insight into what is going on.
I enjoyed reading this book though it was not as good as the first book in the series.

[Angelynn23 · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a lovely read and it was beautifully written. I really enjoyed the enthralling story, the beautiful characters and the amazing setting. With so much thanks to Bookouture for the amazing ARC.

[Anne Lloyd · Rating 3 out of 5]

A bit same same

I found this book slow and the same story line as the other books. But a good story. Thank you

[Crystal Green · Rating 4 out of 5]

I can absolutely see why so many readers love this book. The concept is strong, the Irish setting is beautiful, and the story itself carries a lot of heart. There’s something special about the way this series captures community, loss, and new beginnings.

I'm giving this book a 4 star rating because for me, the beginning felt slow. There’s a heavy focus on the transformation of Orchid Hall, and while I understand its importance to the overall story, it took a while to really get to the heart of Kelly’s journey. Once it does get there, you can clearly see how both Kelly and Orchid Hall grow together—and how, in the end, it all comes full circle in a meaningful way. But getting to that point took more patience than I expected.

The community is another piece that stood out to me. They’re caring, no doubt, but also very involved… sometimes a little too involved. It can come across as pushy. That said, having grown up in a small-town environment myself, I can also recognize that this kind of closeness (and lack of boundaries) can be very real. It won’t feel unrealistic to everyone—just depends on your perspective.

What the book does really well is capture emotion. Kelly’s grief, the mystery surrounding Orchid Hall, and the idea of starting over after loss are all handled with care. And once the story finds its rhythm, it does become rewarding.

Bottom line: a heartfelt story with a beautiful message about healing and second chances—but be prepared to settle in before it really takes off.

Thank you for the Bookouture, Netgalley, and publishers for the chance to review this book.

[Jacqui · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kelly heads to Orchard Hall in Orchard Bay after the death of her husband, Rob. She doesn't know the connection, but she heads there anyway and slips into life there. She is helped to settle in by local villager Mike and her other neighbors in the small town. It's the second story in Orchard Bay, although it could be read as a standalone.

It was nice to revisit Orchard Bay with some familiar characters. It has:

- second chance romance
- small town romance
- found family
- secrets
- search for adopted children
- life in a small town
- mysterious connection of her late husband to Orchard Bay
- moving on after the loss of a spouse.

I'm looking forward to reading more by the author.

Thanks to @bookouture, @netgalley, and the author for this arc.