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Where the Heart Meets the Sea
An emotionally rich love story with themes of lost and found family in a stunning Norwegian island setting.
Twenty-nine-year-old Ella Nilsen has never known her parents—or even how her mother died. Raised by her emotionally distant Norwegian grandmother, Hilda, Ella has long accepted that the topic of her parents is off-limits. When Hilda passes away, Ella is shocked to find that her inheritance includes a summer cottage perched above the sea in a place called Lyngør, a remote island in Norway. To sell it, she’ll have to visit the cottage and take stock of what’s there—and maybe Lyngør holds the key to her mother’s mysterious passing, if she can get the locals to talk.
For as long as he can remember, Leif Arnesen, a thirty-four-year-old boatbuilder in Lyngør, has carried grief and shame from his father’s death, an accident that upended their small community. When Ella breezes into Lyngør looking for answers, her very presence stirs up old ghosts and earns her the villagers’ suspicions. As sparks begin to fly between Leif and Ella and their relationship blossoms quickly, everything Leif knows to be true threatens to capsize.
Perfect for fans of Jennifer Probst’s Our Italian Summer and set amid the rough and wild beauty of the Norwegian archipelagoes, Kimbra Drake’s Where the Heart Meets the Sea asks what happens when we’re forced to rewrite the stories that have defined our lives—and what we do with the next chapters.
Twenty-nine-year-old Ella Nilsen has never known her parents—or even how her mother died. Raised by her emotionally distant Norwegian grandmother, Hilda, Ella has long accepted that the topic of her parents is off-limits. When Hilda passes away, Ella is shocked to find that her inheritance includes a summer cottage perched above the sea in a place called Lyngør, a remote island in Norway. To sell it, she’ll have to visit the cottage and take stock of what’s there—and maybe Lyngør holds the key to her mother’s mysterious passing, if she can get the locals to talk.
For as long as he can remember, Leif Arnesen, a thirty-four-year-old boatbuilder in Lyngør, has carried grief and shame from his father’s death, an accident that upended their small community. When Ella breezes into Lyngør looking for answers, her very presence stirs up old ghosts and earns her the villagers’ suspicions. As sparks begin to fly between Leif and Ella and their relationship blossoms quickly, everything Leif knows to be true threatens to capsize.
Perfect for fans of Jennifer Probst’s Our Italian Summer and set amid the rough and wild beauty of the Norwegian archipelagoes, Kimbra Drake’s Where the Heart Meets the Sea asks what happens when we’re forced to rewrite the stories that have defined our lives—and what we do with the next chapters.
322 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 20, 2026
About the author
Kimbra Drake
2 books59 followersKimbra Drake is the acclaimed author of Where the Heart Meets the Sea, creating emotional, character-driven narratives centered on heritage, healing, and northern European landscapes.
She is also a certified book coach and developmental editor. She lives and writes in Virginia and Ireland. When not crafting stories, some of her passions include traveling, hiking in nature, photography, and watching gigs and readings at indie bookstores.
Where the Heart Meets the Sea, a bestselling romance set in Norway, is currently being developed as a feature film with producer, writer, and actress Hélène Cardona. The novel is inspired by Kimbra’s time living in Lyngør, Norway.
She is a member of Film Independent, The Gotham Film & Media Institute, and The Authors Guild.
Book summary for her romance Where the Heart Meets the Sea:
After inheriting a secluded cottage on a remote Norwegian island, Ella uncovers buried family secrets and finds unexpected love with a local boat builder in this sweeping romance about grief, healing, and belonging.
"A richly atmospheric and emotionally layered novel, Where the Heart Meets the Sea sweeps you away to Norway's wild coast, where love and mystery intertwine. With graceful prose and haunting depth, it's a story about courage, renewal, and the secrets that can set us free." -- Julianne MacLean, bestselling author of These Tangled Vines.
"Where the Heart Meets the Sea is a rich, emotional story that sweeps readers to the beauty of Norway, is full of family drama and romance, and has a heroine readers will cheer for." -- Jennifer Probst, New York Times bestselling author.
"Emotional and heartwarming." -- Jayne Anne Krentz, New York Times bestselling author.
"Libraries seeking a powerful story of heritage will find Where the Heart Meets the Sea compelling and heartfelt." --- Midwest Book Review.
"Kimbra Drake's Where the Heart Meets the Sea is a deeply moving exploration of identity, legacy, and the way love can both wound and heal across generations. For readers who love novels like Our Italian Summer by Jennifer Probst or The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman, Where the Heart Meets the Sea offers the same blend of emotional honesty, mystery, and breathtaking setting. It's a book about rewriting the stories we tell ourselves about our parents, our choices, and the meaning of home. Ultimately, Drake delivers a story that lingers long after the last page." -- Los Angeles Book Review
She is also a certified book coach and developmental editor. She lives and writes in Virginia and Ireland. When not crafting stories, some of her passions include traveling, hiking in nature, photography, and watching gigs and readings at indie bookstores.
Where the Heart Meets the Sea, a bestselling romance set in Norway, is currently being developed as a feature film with producer, writer, and actress Hélène Cardona. The novel is inspired by Kimbra’s time living in Lyngør, Norway.
She is a member of Film Independent, The Gotham Film & Media Institute, and The Authors Guild.
Book summary for her romance Where the Heart Meets the Sea:
After inheriting a secluded cottage on a remote Norwegian island, Ella uncovers buried family secrets and finds unexpected love with a local boat builder in this sweeping romance about grief, healing, and belonging.
"A richly atmospheric and emotionally layered novel, Where the Heart Meets the Sea sweeps you away to Norway's wild coast, where love and mystery intertwine. With graceful prose and haunting depth, it's a story about courage, renewal, and the secrets that can set us free." -- Julianne MacLean, bestselling author of These Tangled Vines.
"Where the Heart Meets the Sea is a rich, emotional story that sweeps readers to the beauty of Norway, is full of family drama and romance, and has a heroine readers will cheer for." -- Jennifer Probst, New York Times bestselling author.
"Emotional and heartwarming." -- Jayne Anne Krentz, New York Times bestselling author.
"Libraries seeking a powerful story of heritage will find Where the Heart Meets the Sea compelling and heartfelt." --- Midwest Book Review.
"Kimbra Drake's Where the Heart Meets the Sea is a deeply moving exploration of identity, legacy, and the way love can both wound and heal across generations. For readers who love novels like Our Italian Summer by Jennifer Probst or The Light Between Oceans by M.L. Stedman, Where the Heart Meets the Sea offers the same blend of emotional honesty, mystery, and breathtaking setting. It's a book about rewriting the stories we tell ourselves about our parents, our choices, and the meaning of home. Ultimately, Drake delivers a story that lingers long after the last page." -- Los Angeles Book Review
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 255 reviews
November 23, 2025
A beautifully written heartfelt love story between Ella and Leif set on a remote island in Norway -- a place about which I've read so little but am now inexorably drawn because of this stunning book. Highly recommended for fans of exquisite romance tales who also love when "place" in a story is as important as its characters.
May 24, 2026
Unfortunately, this was boring and predictable. The writing and dialogue felt so unnatural and awkward. I didn’t like any of the characters tbh and it didn’t feel like any of them had a distinct personality??
August 6, 2026
Where the heart meets the sea is a beautifully written book based in Norway following the main characters, Ella and Leif as they embark in an incredibly heartfelt love story that is both moving and emotionally felt throughout the storyline.
The book takes you on a detailed and very descriptive journey around the Norwegian Islands that you can picture the words turn into images in your mind while reading. I loved and enjoyed everything about this book and I couldn't put it down, I was completely invested from the first couple of chapters. This is definitely one of them books that will stay with me for a long time.
A truly wonderful read that I will highly recommend to others.
The book takes you on a detailed and very descriptive journey around the Norwegian Islands that you can picture the words turn into images in your mind while reading. I loved and enjoyed everything about this book and I couldn't put it down, I was completely invested from the first couple of chapters. This is definitely one of them books that will stay with me for a long time.
A truly wonderful read that I will highly recommend to others.
January 12, 2026
Where the Heart Meets the Sea is a beautiful story set in a small village by the sea in Norway.
Ella, an American from Boulder, CO, sets off to Lyngør to sell the cottage she had inherited from her Norwegian grandmother who raised her.
While there, Ella befriends the locals, including Leif, a local boatbuilder. While there, Ella uncovers the tragic story of her mother and the mystery of her mother’s passing which her grandmother never spoke of.
This book was a deep dive into the Norwegian culture and land and I found it absolutely stunning. The setting is a character in itself and although the land is so beautiful, it could be very deadly with the storms that would sweep through the sea.
I adored all of the characters, but especially Leif, and the slow build of he and Ella’s romance. Typically, romances are not my preferred genre, but Kimbra sucked me right in with the setting, the mystery, and the twists.
I’m so happy I read this and I look forward to what this debut author writes next!
*Thanks so much to the author for the gifted eARC!*
Ella, an American from Boulder, CO, sets off to Lyngør to sell the cottage she had inherited from her Norwegian grandmother who raised her.
While there, Ella befriends the locals, including Leif, a local boatbuilder. While there, Ella uncovers the tragic story of her mother and the mystery of her mother’s passing which her grandmother never spoke of.
This book was a deep dive into the Norwegian culture and land and I found it absolutely stunning. The setting is a character in itself and although the land is so beautiful, it could be very deadly with the storms that would sweep through the sea.
I adored all of the characters, but especially Leif, and the slow build of he and Ella’s romance. Typically, romances are not my preferred genre, but Kimbra sucked me right in with the setting, the mystery, and the twists.
I’m so happy I read this and I look forward to what this debut author writes next!
*Thanks so much to the author for the gifted eARC!*
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book was absolutely fantastic! A swoon-worthy romance that took me to a remote island in Norway and had me feeling all the feels.
Ella Nielson travels to Norway from Colorado to learn about her past after her grandmother passes away. Her grandmother, who raised her, never spoke about Ella's mother or her homeland of Norway but left her a sea cottage on Lyngør. Ella hopes to sell the cottage quickly and learn about the mother she never knew while she's there. But when she meets Leif Arneson, the beautiful local boat builder, she may just have to extend her stay a bit.
This book was exceptionally captivating, from its descriptive writing to its complex characters. I really felt like I was in Lyngør with Ella. It was definitely more than just a romance. There were family secrets to unveil, drama with the locals, and even some danger. I loved the references to Norse mythology, the sense of adventure, and the found family. A truly immersive, heartfelt, entertaining read that I enjoyed SO much! I would HIGHLY recommend adding this debut to your TBR🩷
Ella Nielson travels to Norway from Colorado to learn about her past after her grandmother passes away. Her grandmother, who raised her, never spoke about Ella's mother or her homeland of Norway but left her a sea cottage on Lyngør. Ella hopes to sell the cottage quickly and learn about the mother she never knew while she's there. But when she meets Leif Arneson, the beautiful local boat builder, she may just have to extend her stay a bit.
This book was exceptionally captivating, from its descriptive writing to its complex characters. I really felt like I was in Lyngør with Ella. It was definitely more than just a romance. There were family secrets to unveil, drama with the locals, and even some danger. I loved the references to Norse mythology, the sense of adventure, and the found family. A truly immersive, heartfelt, entertaining read that I enjoyed SO much! I would HIGHLY recommend adding this debut to your TBR🩷
August 21, 2026
3.5. This was picked for book club and I thought it was just okay. It was a cute story set in Norway and the main character, Ella, is trying to learn anything about her family’s past. I enjoyed reading about Ella and Lief’s relationship, but in general the book just felt a little slow and juvenile. Although the author does a great job with her descriptions, especially of the scenery, there seemed to be a lot of repetition from the characters and it felt like it was missing something to really connect and hook you. I did not find myself reaching for the book as I do when I am super excited about what I am reading.
“She recalled her art teacher quoting Van Gogh: ‘What would life be if we had no courage to attempt anything?’”
“Trust the universe. Have faith that everything will work out as it should in the end.”
“She recalled her art teacher quoting Van Gogh: ‘What would life be if we had no courage to attempt anything?’”
“Trust the universe. Have faith that everything will work out as it should in the end.”
November 24, 2025
Ella travels to Lyngor, Norway to see the cottage property left to her by her maternal grandmother, who raised her after her mother's death. Hilda, Ella's grandmother, was prickly and strict, finding it difficult to show emotion or affection. She also refused to discuss Ella's mother and her death, or who her father was. Thus Ella arrives in Lyngor, determined to sell the cottage and its contents while also finding answers about her unknown past. Leif, a talented and creative young boat-builder and artist in Lyngor, was raised by Erik, his father's best friend, after his father died in a boating accident years ago. When Ella and Leif meet, sparks fly, but can they overcome the scars of their past to see a future together?
In a nutshell, a charming romance which will transport you to another country. I enjoyed the depiction of the Scandinavian characters - having Danish relations in the family I will say that the mannerisms and speech rang true to me. It was quite easy to visualize the landscape from the author's descriptions as well, which gives the reader a mini literary vacation. It feels like Leif falls somewhat too quickly to be completely believable, but then I guess we have all known people who met and got married quickly so it isn't completely illogical.
If you enjoy a closed door romance set in a beautiful locale then this one is for you! Thank you to the author for providing a copy to read and review.
In a nutshell, a charming romance which will transport you to another country. I enjoyed the depiction of the Scandinavian characters - having Danish relations in the family I will say that the mannerisms and speech rang true to me. It was quite easy to visualize the landscape from the author's descriptions as well, which gives the reader a mini literary vacation. It feels like Leif falls somewhat too quickly to be completely believable, but then I guess we have all known people who met and got married quickly so it isn't completely illogical.
If you enjoy a closed door romance set in a beautiful locale then this one is for you! Thank you to the author for providing a copy to read and review.
August 27, 2026
Actually might be the worst book I’ve ever read. The writing is so cringy and the people are even worse. Their personalities don’t make any sense or feel relatable at all, neither does the timeline of the story.
I only finished it because I chose it for bookclub, partially because it was advertised somewhere as a smut free romance book but FALSE - nothing explicit but it’s definitely smutty. Can’t believe people think that’s the only way to communicate romance or love in a book is by people basing entire character relationships on being horny. Boo. My next choice for bookclub is Sense and Sensibility. Amen.
I only finished it because I chose it for bookclub, partially because it was advertised somewhere as a smut free romance book but FALSE - nothing explicit but it’s definitely smutty. Can’t believe people think that’s the only way to communicate romance or love in a book is by people basing entire character relationships on being horny. Boo. My next choice for bookclub is Sense and Sensibility. Amen.
December 8, 2025
From the moment you meet Ella, as she arrives at the remote island of Lyngør in Norway, she charms you with her artsy and quirky ways.
This story is enchanting, full of romance, intrigue, mystery, and real-life challenges in a stunning setting on the coast of Norway. Ella only intends to sell her grandmother's cottage and get back to her life in Boulder but Lyngør and its inhabitants and the mystery about her mother's death all converge to ultimately change Ella's mind. Meeting Leif, a local boatbuilder with his own tragedy in his past, doesn't hurt either though his friends try to dissuade him from getting to know Ella better.
This book was a delightful read and Kimbra's ability to invoke such a strong sense of place and the people who live there make it a book to remember. The romance doesn't hurt either - and though it may seem quick in the beginning, it feels authentic and real, especially after some missteps, challenges and a near-death experience.
I recommend it for people who love being immersed in a different culture and setting, and enjoy characters who are real and full of foibles and contradictions but transcend them to forge a new life.
Thank you to Kimbra Drake for providing a copy for me to read and review. All opinions are my own.
This story is enchanting, full of romance, intrigue, mystery, and real-life challenges in a stunning setting on the coast of Norway. Ella only intends to sell her grandmother's cottage and get back to her life in Boulder but Lyngør and its inhabitants and the mystery about her mother's death all converge to ultimately change Ella's mind. Meeting Leif, a local boatbuilder with his own tragedy in his past, doesn't hurt either though his friends try to dissuade him from getting to know Ella better.
This book was a delightful read and Kimbra's ability to invoke such a strong sense of place and the people who live there make it a book to remember. The romance doesn't hurt either - and though it may seem quick in the beginning, it feels authentic and real, especially after some missteps, challenges and a near-death experience.
I recommend it for people who love being immersed in a different culture and setting, and enjoy characters who are real and full of foibles and contradictions but transcend them to forge a new life.
Thank you to Kimbra Drake for providing a copy for me to read and review. All opinions are my own.
February 22, 2026
Beautiful story of love, loss and secrets.
When Ella travels to the Norweigan island of Lyngor to get together her grandmother's cottage ready to sell, we are taken on a beautifully rich, emotive and vivid journey of love, loss and family secrets.
Kimbra Drake has the most exquisite writing style, through every word I felt like I was walking beside Ella and was fully immersed in Norwegian life. The characters that we meet throughout are portrayed with authenticity and rawness. Some are not the nicest of people but I loved the sense of community and the connections that were built. I really connected with Ella and felt all that she went through, and Leif was also a beautiful character. I enjoyed their connection. Ella and Leif shared more than they first realised in terms of life experiences. Through her time in Lyngor Ella also realises that the story she has been told growing up isn't exactly the complete truth.
There was real emotional depth to this book which made it an easy 5* read for me and I cannot wait to uncover more of Drakes work. This book has my whole heart! 🥹❤️
When Ella travels to the Norweigan island of Lyngor to get together her grandmother's cottage ready to sell, we are taken on a beautifully rich, emotive and vivid journey of love, loss and family secrets.
Kimbra Drake has the most exquisite writing style, through every word I felt like I was walking beside Ella and was fully immersed in Norwegian life. The characters that we meet throughout are portrayed with authenticity and rawness. Some are not the nicest of people but I loved the sense of community and the connections that were built. I really connected with Ella and felt all that she went through, and Leif was also a beautiful character. I enjoyed their connection. Ella and Leif shared more than they first realised in terms of life experiences. Through her time in Lyngor Ella also realises that the story she has been told growing up isn't exactly the complete truth.
There was real emotional depth to this book which made it an easy 5* read for me and I cannot wait to uncover more of Drakes work. This book has my whole heart! 🥹❤️
June 26, 2026
*books flight to Norway*
But this book is a cute, predictable easy ready with an amazing setting. It’s giving Virgin River in book format.
But this book is a cute, predictable easy ready with an amazing setting. It’s giving Virgin River in book format.
July 18, 2026
"What would life be if we had no courage to attempt anything?" —Vincent van GoghElla Nilsen inherits Ringpynten, a secluded summer cottage in Lyngør, Norway—a secret her beloved Mormor, Hilda Nilsen, kept hidden until her passing. Raised in Boulder, Colorado, Ella arrives in Norway with no intention of staying longer than two weeks. With a soft launch of her textile business on the horizon, she plans to sell the cottage and return home. However, her journey quickly becomes something much deeper as she's compelled to unravel the mysteries surrounding her mother, Sara—a subject her grandmother never spoke about. In seeking answers, Ella finds herself drawn into the rhythms and revelations of the island, reshaping her sense of home and belonging.
Reading this beautifully written debut novel, I was struck by its heartfelt authenticity. Kimbra Drake seamlessly weaves Norse mythology, mystery, romance, and suspense into a narrative that feels like a love letter to Lyngør. The vivid descriptions of the landscape, the serenity of island life, and the deep-rooted sense of community create an immersive sense of place. The author's reverence for the sea and the land is evident in the way she captures the delicate balance between joy and caution that shapes the residents' dependence on the mainland ferries, the archipelago's privately owned dinghies and skiffs, and the larger boats that serve as lifelines between the islands. Their daily routines and connections are defined by these vessels and by their constant respect for the weather, which can shift unexpectedly and profoundly affect their way of life.
From Ella's earliest encounters with the islanders, a subtle tension underlies every exchange. Their warm welcomes and friendly invitations are tinged with a sense of guardedness, as if the community is collectively protecting long-buried secrets. This carefully maintained air of mystery draws the reader in, heightening the intrigue and emotional stakes of Ella's journey.
Book Club Questions are available at the end of the novel, along with an invitation to visit the author's website via the provided link or by scanning a QR code. I highly recommend downloading the complimentary Book Club Kit from the site. This PDF includes an Author Interview, a duplicate of the discussion questions, a Marsipankake (Mia's Version) cake recipe, a QR code linking to a curated playlist to enjoy while reading, and a final About the Author page.
February 18, 2026
What a beautiful story, the setting and the story woven into the Norway coastal seascape.
I love all the tropes! My interest was piqued by the mystery that Ella doesn’t even know about until her grandmother passes. How would you feel if everything you’ve be raised to believe is based on half truths, how do you find your reality when the secret keeper is gone?
I want to book a ticket to Norway after traveling with Ella to Lyngor. The author paints the setting so vividly, you feel like you are walking through the cottage with Ella. You can see Mia in her little store with everything on the island. Having to take a dinghy around the island to shop, to visit, to be with friends.
The tension of the locals vs tourists, the disdain felt by some for the outsiders is well written. Inger is such a gruff character, but you sense there’s going to be so much more to her. Loved all the character development with the leading to the supporting cast!
The romance is lovely, a love at first sight, can’t live another day without each other! Clean, closed door, just sweet. You root for Lief and Ella immediately from the first glance!
I didn’t want it to end, and now I want to read it again!
I love all the tropes! My interest was piqued by the mystery that Ella doesn’t even know about until her grandmother passes. How would you feel if everything you’ve be raised to believe is based on half truths, how do you find your reality when the secret keeper is gone?
I want to book a ticket to Norway after traveling with Ella to Lyngor. The author paints the setting so vividly, you feel like you are walking through the cottage with Ella. You can see Mia in her little store with everything on the island. Having to take a dinghy around the island to shop, to visit, to be with friends.
The tension of the locals vs tourists, the disdain felt by some for the outsiders is well written. Inger is such a gruff character, but you sense there’s going to be so much more to her. Loved all the character development with the leading to the supporting cast!
The romance is lovely, a love at first sight, can’t live another day without each other! Clean, closed door, just sweet. You root for Lief and Ella immediately from the first glance!
I didn’t want it to end, and now I want to read it again!
January 17, 2026
WHERE THE HEART MEETS THE SEA took me on a trip to Norway, a place that I have never been. So this was a great start for me and it only got better from there! A nice romance genre with some family drama included. I thought it was excellent and I hope you will as well!
Many thanks to Kimbra Drake for my gifted copy.
This review will be shared to my Instagram account (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the future.
Many thanks to Kimbra Drake for my gifted copy.
This review will be shared to my Instagram account (@coffee.break.book.reviews) in the future.
May 14, 2026
Just do yourself a favor and read it! I am not sure why no one is talking about this book and author!?
November 18, 2025
Ella Nilsen is only twenty nine when her Mormor Hilda (grandmother) dies. Having grown up in Boulder, Colorado Hilda did everything she could to take care of Ella, orphaned since she was a baby. Hilda spoke very little of her daughter Sara (who died in childbirth) and literally divulged nothing regarding Ella’s biological father. Broken hearted Hilda began a new life in America and erased their entire past. Hilda’s last request upon her death was for her ashes be placed in Lyngor, Norway where she bequeathed Ella a summer home she never knew existed. As an artist and fashion designer, Ella was in the midst of opening her own shop when she took off two weeks to travel to Norway and follow Hilda’s wishes. Even though they hadn’t always gotten along, Ella was very curious about her Norwegian family history that has been buried away on this little island. Immediately after arriving Ella is befriended by Mia who has been the caretaker and rental agent for the cottage and Leif, who is a handy man boatbuilder and looks like a mythical Norweigan god. Naturally, sparks immediately fly! Although the locals are reluctant to speak about the past and tragic accident that took Leif’s own father’s life, Ella slowly uncovers the details of Sara and what happened on that tragic day. The setting was absolutely beautiful and I loved the characters — all in all a wonderful story. The writing was average and I think thats probably a combination of editing and experience, especially as the end had a hard time winding up. That being said, I thoroughly enjoyed this novel and would definitely try another from this author!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Surprisingly, I was more intrigued by the mystery of her family than by the romance. I wanted to know why everyone was ignoring her and treating her with indifference. Ella wants to know what happened to her mother because the things her grandmother has told her don’t make sense, but no one wants to talk.
The romance was sweet. Leif hates change, while she embraces it. Something about her makes him question whether change maybe isn’t so bad and whether he’s willing to change his mind because of how she makes him feel. I did wish he had stood his ground when it came to Charlotte, the girl he's been hooking up with before he met Ella. I didn't like her being all over him while Ella was right there, and he didn't do more about it to discourage her.
There were a few things that bothered me. The way some people acted toward Ella felt uncalled for. Just being there, she was treated poorly, and that didn’t justify their silence or their treatment of her. Although I liked the romance, her falling in love with Leif in two weeks felt too quick. I would have wanted their romance to expand over a longer period of time and have them really get to know each other better. Lastly, the writing toward the end started to get choppy. The sentence structures felt too stiff and awkward.
I enjoyed Ella’s journey of discovery and forgiveness.
Thank you NetGalley and Bleecker Street Books for the ARC.
The romance was sweet. Leif hates change, while she embraces it. Something about her makes him question whether change maybe isn’t so bad and whether he’s willing to change his mind because of how she makes him feel. I did wish he had stood his ground when it came to Charlotte, the girl he's been hooking up with before he met Ella. I didn't like her being all over him while Ella was right there, and he didn't do more about it to discourage her.
There were a few things that bothered me. The way some people acted toward Ella felt uncalled for. Just being there, she was treated poorly, and that didn’t justify their silence or their treatment of her. Although I liked the romance, her falling in love with Leif in two weeks felt too quick. I would have wanted their romance to expand over a longer period of time and have them really get to know each other better. Lastly, the writing toward the end started to get choppy. The sentence structures felt too stiff and awkward.
I enjoyed Ella’s journey of discovery and forgiveness.
Thank you NetGalley and Bleecker Street Books for the ARC.
December 1, 2025
Ella Nilsen is forced to face her past after her mormor, who raised her, passes away and leaves her a cottage on a remote island in Norway. Ella travels to Norway, hoping to find answers to the many questions her grandmother refused to answer. As Ella comes to know and fall in love with Lief, she begins to wonder if she can leave her life in Colorado, start fresh in Norway, and find the answers she so desperately longs for.
I had high hopes for this book, and somehow it didn’t meet my expectations at all. I loved the idea of reading a romance set in Norway. The cottage by the sea felt so cozy, and the small, tight-knit community that pulls together intrigues me and usually offers more opportunities for deep relationships. Unfortunately, this novel fell flat for me. The writing came across as more telling rather than showing; I love descriptions that make me feel as though I’m in the story, and this didn’t do that for me. I also didn’t connect with the characters. Every one of them felt flat and lacking to me, and some were just downright awful people. This one was a swing and a miss for me.
2.5 Stars rounded up to 3
Minimal 🌶️
I had high hopes for this book, and somehow it didn’t meet my expectations at all. I loved the idea of reading a romance set in Norway. The cottage by the sea felt so cozy, and the small, tight-knit community that pulls together intrigues me and usually offers more opportunities for deep relationships. Unfortunately, this novel fell flat for me. The writing came across as more telling rather than showing; I love descriptions that make me feel as though I’m in the story, and this didn’t do that for me. I also didn’t connect with the characters. Every one of them felt flat and lacking to me, and some were just downright awful people. This one was a swing and a miss for me.
2.5 Stars rounded up to 3
Minimal 🌶️
December 31, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley and Bleecker street books for the early copy of this book.
This book transported me to the most beautiful place with turquoise water, beautiful cottages and shops and friendly people. It made me want to jump into the pages and take a stroll through the island or take a little boat out to sea.
The love story here was so sweet. I really loved Leif. He was so sweet and romantic with his acts of service for Ella. I love how he spoke to her and treated her so lovingly.
I also loved Ella’s character. She was strong and witty. She knew what she wanted and was determined to find it. I loved her quirks and how she found the beauty in everything even after her rough childhood with her Mormor.
The whole mystery of the book was just tragic. It was so sad and so heartbreaking for all of the people involved but it all led to a happy ending that left me satisfied.
I struggled to read this only because it was in the third person so it took me longer to read but I did enjoy it. It was a nice story.
This book transported me to the most beautiful place with turquoise water, beautiful cottages and shops and friendly people. It made me want to jump into the pages and take a stroll through the island or take a little boat out to sea.
The love story here was so sweet. I really loved Leif. He was so sweet and romantic with his acts of service for Ella. I love how he spoke to her and treated her so lovingly.
I also loved Ella’s character. She was strong and witty. She knew what she wanted and was determined to find it. I loved her quirks and how she found the beauty in everything even after her rough childhood with her Mormor.
The whole mystery of the book was just tragic. It was so sad and so heartbreaking for all of the people involved but it all led to a happy ending that left me satisfied.
I struggled to read this only because it was in the third person so it took me longer to read but I did enjoy it. It was a nice story.
June 5, 2026
I really wanted to love this. The cover is gorgeous and it's set on a small island off of Norway in the 1990s. Unfortunately, the plot was predictable (with lots of aspects that were hard to believe). I also found the romance lacking. The main characters seemed to fall in love immediately but also to dislike each other; the readers are told they like each other but we aren't shown it at all. And the supporting cast of characters were all awful but then everyone kept forgiving them because I guess that's what you do on a small island? None of them seemed to have a consistent personality; just various random behaviors from whoever happened to be on the page.
I will say the plot (though I guessed the gist of it) still kept me interested enough to finish the book.
I would love to read another book in this setting but maybe a bit more editing would've helped.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I will say the plot (though I guessed the gist of it) still kept me interested enough to finish the book.
I would love to read another book in this setting but maybe a bit more editing would've helped.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This one ended up being a DNF for me. I was really excited going into it and loved the premise, especially that it was set in Norway. The author did a great job with the world-building and character development, but unfortunately, I found myself a little bored and just couldn’t get through it.
This is probably silly, but Ella pulling out her guitar and singing in the middle of conversations felt super cringe to me and kept pulling me out of the story. Overall, it just didn’t capture my attention the way I hoped it would. I’m also not a big friends-to-lovers reader, and there wasn’t enough angst or tension between the characters to keep me invested.
This is probably silly, but Ella pulling out her guitar and singing in the middle of conversations felt super cringe to me and kept pulling me out of the story. Overall, it just didn’t capture my attention the way I hoped it would. I’m also not a big friends-to-lovers reader, and there wasn’t enough angst or tension between the characters to keep me invested.
March 4, 2026
This took me a while to get through, which is a such a shame, because I was initially so excited about reading it due to the setting (a remote Norwegian island) and the ability to learn about Norwegian culture. Unfortunately, those two things couldn’t outweigh some of the challenges I found with the book. For me, the most glaring one was that the dialogue came off very unnatural/wooden and none of the characters seemed to have a distinct voice. Even though the book didn’t meet my expectations, I really think that a lot of people will love the plot—in particular Ella’s journey to uncover her family’s secrets.
*Thank you NetGalley for providing me a copy in exchange for an honest review*
*Thank you NetGalley for providing me a copy in exchange for an honest review*
March 23, 2026
I liked that this was set in 1992 and that it was set in Norway.. It was just too melodramatic and predictable for me. I did not appreciate that everyone was a casual alcoholic. Also, the constant name dropping of the Nordic gods... Felt like a bit too much. I am very Norwegian, have relatives in Norway and Idk.. This just felt too over the top for me. Like we were TRYING to be Norwegian, not just letting it be Norwegian.
October 13, 2025
DNF 25% in
I want to start off by saying that I was really intrigued by the book blurb, and it really did feel like I was in Norway while reading!
The dialogue is what hung me up and ultimately took me out of the story. It felt super choppy and robotic.
A huge thank you to NetGalley for giving me an early copy and exchange for my honest review !
I want to start off by saying that I was really intrigued by the book blurb, and it really did feel like I was in Norway while reading!
The dialogue is what hung me up and ultimately took me out of the story. It felt super choppy and robotic.
A huge thank you to NetGalley for giving me an early copy and exchange for my honest review !
March 28, 2026
Reading this felt like slowly being bludgeoned with spoilers the whole time while the “reveals” wave at you from miles away. The final blow is confirming there’s no big twist and it really was that predictable
April 12, 2026
The book felt like a postcard from Norway.
July 13, 2026
A mystery, romance, and a story about a remote part of Norway.
July 29, 2026
Had high hopes for this but it didn’t go as deep as I hoped.
August 13, 2026
I was initially drawn to this book by the gorgeous front cover which reminded me of my boating holidays along the Thames with my parents when I was much younger.
Now, I couldn't really have been further from the truth, given that the setting for this read is a really the gorgeous Norwegian island of Lyngør - I know, the flags maybe could have been a clue there!?
Ever since she could remember, Ella has been brought up by her grandmother, she's never known her parents and it's been a topic that has always been off limits!
When Ella's grandmother passes away, Ella inherits a family cottage on Lyngør and heads out to sort through everything there.
Whilst there she determines to find out more about her parents from the locals and when she meets Leif a relationship starts to blossom.
I loved that I was so easily drawn into this emotional story and I fell in love with the characters right from the start.
Apart from grieving her grandmother, Ella soon discovers that the story she knew was not the whole truth and this drags up feelings of uncertainty and loss beyond that which she's already been through.
As the mystery grows, we see that Ella and Leif have more in common than they imagined and the bond between them grows.
This was so beautifully written with some gorgeous descriptions which completely transported me into the story.
The setting was beautiful and I definitely went on this emotional rollercoaster with the characters.
I loved the combination of the mystery with the romance thread running through which worked well to keep me invested in both elements.
This was a great first read for me from this author and I'd love to read more in the future.
Now, I couldn't really have been further from the truth, given that the setting for this read is a really the gorgeous Norwegian island of Lyngør - I know, the flags maybe could have been a clue there!?
Ever since she could remember, Ella has been brought up by her grandmother, she's never known her parents and it's been a topic that has always been off limits!
When Ella's grandmother passes away, Ella inherits a family cottage on Lyngør and heads out to sort through everything there.
Whilst there she determines to find out more about her parents from the locals and when she meets Leif a relationship starts to blossom.
I loved that I was so easily drawn into this emotional story and I fell in love with the characters right from the start.
Apart from grieving her grandmother, Ella soon discovers that the story she knew was not the whole truth and this drags up feelings of uncertainty and loss beyond that which she's already been through.
As the mystery grows, we see that Ella and Leif have more in common than they imagined and the bond between them grows.
This was so beautifully written with some gorgeous descriptions which completely transported me into the story.
The setting was beautiful and I definitely went on this emotional rollercoaster with the characters.
I loved the combination of the mystery with the romance thread running through which worked well to keep me invested in both elements.
This was a great first read for me from this author and I'd love to read more in the future.
January 20, 2026
When her grandmother passes, Ella returns to Norway, where she learns that she’s inherited a cottage. There she finds clues to what may have happened to her mother, who died when she was very young.
Leif Arnesan has carried grief and shame for years due to his father’s death in a boating accident. The people of Lyngør are tight-knit and don’t take kindly to outsiders coming in and asking a lot of questions. But Ella really wants to know the truth of what happened to her mother.
I especially enjoyed learning about Norwegian life and the customs. The islands sound absolutely beautiful.
Read this for |
•Family heritage
•Norse mythology
•Romance
•Secrets and deception
•Norwegian culture
•Tense moments
My ancestors come from Denmark, so I enjoyed reading a book set in this area of the world.
Thank you to the author for the complimentary e-arc in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley as well. 3.75/5 stars
Leif Arnesan has carried grief and shame for years due to his father’s death in a boating accident. The people of Lyngør are tight-knit and don’t take kindly to outsiders coming in and asking a lot of questions. But Ella really wants to know the truth of what happened to her mother.
I especially enjoyed learning about Norwegian life and the customs. The islands sound absolutely beautiful.
Read this for |
•Family heritage
•Norse mythology
•Romance
•Secrets and deception
•Norwegian culture
•Tense moments
My ancestors come from Denmark, so I enjoyed reading a book set in this area of the world.
Thank you to the author for the complimentary e-arc in exchange for an honest review. Thank you to NetGalley as well. 3.75/5 stars
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