Back Where We Belong

by Jo Bartlett

A BRAND NEW uplifting, heartwarming read from BESTSELLER Jo Bartlett 💖 Praise for Jo

'Stunning setting, wonderful characters, and oozing with warmth. A triumph from Jo Bartlett.' Bestselling author, Jessica Redland

'Perfectly written and set in the beating heart of a community, this story is a wonderful slice of Cornish escapism.' Bestselling author, Helen J Rolfe

'I was drawn in from the first word, I’ve laughed and cried, what a really lovely story' ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

'I would highly recommend this book for a bit of fantastic escapism and love conquering all.' ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

'A heart-warming tale which I enjoyed reading very much.' ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ Reader Review

Genres: Chick Lit

322 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 27, 2026

Reviews

[Srivalli (Semi-Hiatus) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4 Stars

One Liner: Quite an emotional read

Bex and Briony grew up inseparable until Briony’s attempts to save Bex from an engagement changed everything. Fifteen years later, Bex has a loving family, a glamping site on the family farm, and the roots she wanted. Briony travels in her van and has an online presence as Holly Day. When their mum falls ill, Bex tracks down Briony. This return brings past hurt and secrets, and maybe a new beginning to their relationship.

The story is in Bex and Briony’s third-person POVs.

My Thoughts

This is the second book in a standalone series, so you can jump into it as I did. That said, you’ll meet some characters from the previous book and other series set in the same location.

The Cornish village is charming, with farms, lovely old roads, and a beautiful beach. With a few dogs and three kids enjoying the place, it feels like a must-visit location.

The main characters (older sis-Bx and younger sis-By) are complex and interesting. I pretty much guessed what the plotline would be, so it didn’t really surprise me. However, the writing was pretty good, especially in the emotional scenes.

I started to empathize more with Bx, but as the story progressed, the feelings shifted steadily. By the end, I was supporting By despite her flaws.

I like that the characters feel very real (meaning they need therapy for two lifetimes), but I am also disappointed that they are judged on different standards. One of them is mollycoddled more than necessary.

A character that complains about betrayal, lies, tries to play god, hides her role, and blames the other for having a drastic reaction, and she gets away with nothing. Not even an apology for her actions!

There’s a bit of medical detail too, given the premise and the mother’s health condition. I appreciate learning something new. It was well-integrated into the narrative and had the right amount of hospital stuff.

The side characters gave me mixed vibes. The mother was rather great, but maybe just maybe I wanted her to drive sense into her older child a little. The stepfather was a wonderful man, and he did his best. M and T were really good, until I didn’t like T at one point (show more sense than that, will ya). The kids were the best! I loveee them!

I wish the epilogue was a bit more detailed in the sense that the apology was missing (yes, I will insist on it).

To summarize, Back Where We Belong is a heart-touching emotional read dealing with some heavy themes. Dysfunctional family, triggers, repeating patterns… you get the point!

Thank you, Rachel’s Random Resources, NetGalley, and Boldwood Books, for the eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.

#NetGalley

[Stacey · Rating 3 out of 5]

2.5 stars rounded up.

I have read other books by this author that I enjoyed. However, this one was a bit of a miss for me. The FMC was annoying and whiny. The story felt repetitive with the issue being rehashed over and over. What happened to the main character was upsetting but her response to it seemed very immature. The entire incident just seemed silly. The story was melodramatic. I struggle with stories that rely on lack of communication. A heart to heart conversation could have solved so much.

[Staceywh_17 · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have loved each and every one of Bartlett's books and her new releases are eagerly anticipated.

Her characters are written with warmth and tenderness giving them credibility and making them so easy to become emotionally invested in. And it's always a treat to see some favourite faces popping up along the way.

Bex and Briony's emotions fast became mine and together we went on a journey to rekindle their fractured relationship.

Sincere, hopeful and uplifting, Back Where We Belong was immensely rewarding.

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Back Where We Belong is one of those stories that wraps around you with a quiet tenderness, the kind that lingers long after you’ve turned the final page. Jo Bartlett captures the complicated beauty of sisterhood so well — the love, the hurt, the distance, and the way a single moment can echo through years.

Bex and Briony’s fractured bond sits at the heart of the novel, and it’s handled with such care. Bex, grounded and determined to build something meaningful on the family farm, has carved out a life filled with love and purpose. Briony, drifting from place to place under an alias, carries her loneliness like a shadow. Their separation feels raw, but never hopeless, and when their mum’s illness forces their worlds to collide again, the emotional pull is immediate.

What I loved most is how gently the story unfolds. There’s no rush to forgiveness, no easy fixes — just two women learning to navigate old wounds and new truths. The glamping site, the family farm, the soft rural setting all add a lovely warmth, giving the heavier moments space to breathe. Bartlett has a gift for creating places that feel lived‑in and comforting, even when the characters inside them are struggling.

As secrets surface and the sisters begin to find their way back to one another, the book settles into something quietly uplifting. It’s about second chances, yes, but also about understanding the people we love — and the versions of ourselves we’ve tried to leave behind.

Heartfelt, hopeful, and beautifully human, Back Where We Belong is a tender reminder that some bonds, no matter how strained, never truly break. A perfect read for anyone who loves emotional, character‑driven stories with warmth stitched into every page.

With thanks to Jo Bartlett, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC

[Ashley Cohoon · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐⭐⭐⭐☆ (4/5 stars)

This was such a heartfelt, emotional read, one of those stories that quietly pulls you in and then sticks with you for a while after you finish.

Back Where We Belong by Jo Bartlett centers around two estranged sisters, Bex and Briony, and the complicated history that’s kept them apart for years. When their mom becomes ill, they’re forced back into each other’s lives, and you just know it’s going to bring up everything they’ve been avoiding.

What I really loved about this book is how real the relationships felt. There’s a lot of hurt, miscommunication, and lingering resentment, but also love underneath all of it. It doesn’t rush the healing process, which made it feel more authentic. I definitely found my feelings shifting as the story went on too. I started out fully on one side, and by the end, I understood both of them in a completely different way.

The setting was also such a cozy bonus. The Cornish village, the farm, the glamping site- it all adds this warm, comforting backdrop that balances out some of the heavier emotional moments really well. And the side characters (especially the kids!) added a lot of charm and life to the story.

There’s a bit of romance woven in, but I’d say the real heart of the book is about family- specifically repairing broken relationships and learning that there’s usually more to the story than you originally thought.

If I had one small critique, it’s that I wished a few emotional moments, especially toward the end, were explored just a little bit more deeply. But overall, this was still a really satisfying and uplifting read.

If you like emotional, character-driven stories about family, second chances, and small-town life, this is definitely one to pick up.

A big thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.

[Ann Lovell · Rating 4 out of 5]

Early copy received from Netgalley with thanks.


Bex- Married to Matt with three boys and lives on a farm.
Has a great network of friends in Port Agnes. Opening a campsite


Donna & Ken her mum and Step dad

Holly ( Briorny ) her estranged sister. No friends lives her life on the road with her Labrador Merlin as her only companion. Has a huge social media presence but otherwise soleless existence. She’s desperately wants a second chance! Will she get her chance to settle down and give up her nomadic lifestyle?

Tristan is Cousin to Bex’s husband, he’s keen on Briony will his loyalty stay with his family? Or will he follow his heart.

Bex has been let down by Briony and they’ve gone their separate ways. Both building their own lives. Are they really happy without each other? 16 years have passed without contact.

When mum becomes unwell Bex realises she needs to contact her sister. Will this be the time for them to make amends. Has it gone too long for them to be able to reconcile. She tends to struggle to forgive and sees the problems with her sister.


This is another fabulous visit to Port Agnes plenty of familiar faces blend into the plot , the characters are well described and mean well in their own ways. Bex can be difficult to empathise with at times. It’s emotionally charged with some tearful parts.
Lots is going on in the lives of previous characters from other books but that doesn’t mean you’ll need to have read them.

This is a lovely read set in a beautiful Cornish coastal town. Romance, sadness, family and friendship.

This can be read as part of the rest of the Cornish Bay Series or Standalone.

[Ann-Maree]

Back Where We Belong
by Jo Bartlett

I regret to say that this book did not resonate with me in the same way that the first book of the series, *Letting Go of Yesterday* (The Cornish Bay #1), did, which I wholeheartedly rated with 5 stars. I am typically a fan of Jo Bartlett's work; however, this particular novel fell flat for me and did not capture my interest as much as I had hoped.

One of my primary concerns revolves around the character Bex. On the surface, she presents herself as someone who has achieved her ideal family life, a reality shaped in part by her sister's past decisions. However, I found her actions to be more indicative of selfishness and immaturity. This is especially evident in her past and present interactions with her sister, Broiny.

I believe in the importance of open communication and understanding. I cannot fathom a scenario where I wouldn’t give my sister the opportunity to explain herself if there were a conflict between us. In fact, I would be inclined to trust her over nearly anyone else in my life.

In contrast, I found Broiny to be a much more relatable and engaging character. Despite her own struggles, she demonstrated significant personal growth throughout the story, making her journey more compelling than Bex's. Additionally, I noticed that the plot felt somewhat repetitive, as the central conflict was revisited frequently without much evolution. This repetitiveness detracted from the overall pacing and kept me from fully immersing myself in the narrative. Overall, while there were aspects I appreciated, the book ultimately did not meet my expectations.

[Book Escapes Babs · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again, I picked up this book just because I love this author. I didn’t read the synopsis, but knew it was the second in her new series. Back Where We Belong tackles a subject close to my heart, as I know the reality of a fractured family. Of course, this is handled with Jo’s inimitable skill, and the overall story is simply perfect. Don’t worry if you haven’t read the first in this series, as it can be enjoyed as a standalone story.

My initial instinct was to be completely on Team Bex. What Briony had done seemed unforgivable, but with the gentle revelation of the full facts, I was soon rooting for a resolution to their relationship.

Although this falls under romantic fiction, and there is certainly a fledgling romance at its heart, I felt that the focus on repairing the family bonds and learning to understand that there is often more to any story was the core element. I must say, I found the whole book to be incredibly uplifting.

Of course, there is an ensemble cast included in the story, and some cameos from other books by Jo Bartlett, but, once again, they are handled in such a way that a first-time reader wouldn’t be disadvantaged. In fact, I hope it encourages them to read more of her books, as they are all fabulous. There is a distinct sense of community within the story which had me invested in a positive outcome.

The story arcs of Bex and Briony couldn’t have been more satisfying, and I am already looking forward to catching up with them in the next book in this series. I believe that there will only be three, but based on the first two, book three will be a real treat.

[Kirsty · Rating 4 out of 5]

Today it is my turn on the blog tour for Back Where We Belong by Jo Bartlett

📚 Book Review 📚

Back Where We Belong by Jo Bartlett

I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Blurb

Fifteen years ago, one desperate act tore sisters Bex and Briony apart.

Growing up side by side against the backdrop of a feckless father and a hardworking mum, they were inseparable—until Briony’s attempt to save Bex from a disastrous engagement shattered their bond.

Now Bex has the life she dreamed of: a loving family, a new glamping site on the family farm, and roots she’s proud of. Briony, living under the online alias “Holly Day,” drifts from place to place in her van, watching her sister’s happiness from afar.

When their beloved mum falls seriously ill, Bex must track down the sister she hasn’t seen in over a decade. But finding Briony brings more than old wounds—it brings unexpected closeness, new beginnings, and the realisation that some bonds never truly break.

As secrets unravel and hearts tentatively open, Bex and Briony must decide whether they can finally forgive, heal, and find their way back to each other—and to the family they both desperately need.

My Opinion

Back Where We Belong is a novel that is difficult to put down. An emotional read with some delightful characters. Back Where We Belong is the second book in The Cornish Bay series but it can easily be read as standalone. A lovely read that I would highly recommend.

Rating 4/5

[Kyleneum13 · Rating 4 out of 5]

A big thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the opportunity to eARC read this book!

I connected with this story almost immediately. I grew up in a sister-sibling, single-mother household, and there were a lot of parallels in this story that pulled me right into the dynamic from the start. It felt familiar in a way that made it very easy to invest in the characters and their relationships.

What stood out most to me was how well the author balanced character development with forward momentum. There was a clear focus on giving each relationship enough depth to matter while still moving the story along in a way that felt natural. I always had a reason to keep reading, not just because of the plot, but because I genuinely cared about where these characters would end up.

The pacing worked well for me overall. The plot itself could be a bit predictable at times, but honestly, that didn’t take away from my enjoyment. The strength of the relationships carried the story, and that emotional investment made it easy to stay engaged even when I could see certain turns coming.

I also really appreciated that this was such a cozy read that didn’t rely solely on the romance to hold it together. While I do love a good romantic storyline, it was refreshing to see so much attention given to other important relationships, especially family. That balance added a lot of heart to the book and made it feel more grounded and real.

All in all, a warm, character-driven read that leans into family, connection, and finding your way forward.

[Alex · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a lovely book and a great sequel to "Letting Go of Yesterday".

This book is about Bex and her family, who we first met in the earlier book, as Rowan's partner in crime at school.

Bex has a tough background, and is estranged from her sister, Briony. We learn early on that this is because she had a relationship with Bex's ex-fiancee, and don't find out as to later on, why (as goes for Bex as well). Bex has always assumed the worst so has kept her distance.

Unfortunately, at the start of the book, we also find out that their mother, Donna, has cancer and has to have a liver transplant, so Briony/Holly has to be contacted to see if she is a match.

Holly is an influencer who has been invited to Bex's farm (unbeknownst to Bex) to review Bex's new camping business. When the two worlds collide, there are very interesting consequences - to families being reconnected in ways they cannot imagine... and for healing to start across the family, both with Bex and her husband, as I think there were always words unsaid because of her previous relationship, and that of the sisters and that of the sisters and their mother, who can finally have everyone back together.

The location is a wonderful one, and loved meeting everyone again - from the positive relationship that Rowan now has, to how Bex is introduced, and her fantastically funny kids, and most importantly, dogs, who have starring roles! Especially Merlin!

Lovely summer read! Can't wait for another one....

[Dani · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bex and Briony are sisters who love each other deeply - until one day when Briony makes a bad decision. Even though she means well, it causes a huge break between them. Not only are the sisters torn apart, but their friends and parents take sides too. Bex reacts by cutting Briony out of her life completely. The pain and broken trust run deep, and holding onto that hurt for sixteen years shows just how serious the damage is.

When a family emergency forces them back together, all the old wounds resurface. There are hard conversations, anger, and a lot of unresolved pain on both sides. Bex can’t bring herself to trust her sister again and struggles to understand why her children want a relationship with Briony. This makes her feel alone and rejected all over again.

At the heart of this story is the sisters’ relationship. Their past has shaped who they are, and rebuilding trust feels almost impossible. Even when everyone else is ready to move on, Bex remains stuck in her pain. That came across very clearly, and more than once I wanted to shake her and tell her to give her sister another chance. I was fully invested in the story and kept hoping the sisters would eventually find their way back to each other.

I received an advance review copy, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[EVANGELIA MARAGKOPOULOU · Rating 5 out of 5]

An other gem written by Jo Bartlett . What a misunderstanding can bring in a family . Bex and Briony are sisters living with their mother because their father was a loser and when Donna met Ken their stepdad they finally became happy . When Bex was engaged with Liam she wouldn't hear Briony warnings about him being cheater , Briony had to act but her actions cost her her sister . Bex never believed what her sister trying to tell her so 16 years flew by with them not talking . Bex got married to Matt and has 3 boys Ollie Henry and Tom , She quit her job at the Primary School so she can make her dream come true by opening a campsite at her family's farm . Briony ia a famous travel influencer which living in a campervan and travelling all around the world but when an invate from one of her followers brings her to Mordos Farm Campsite owned ny Bex . Trevor is Matt cousin and also co owner of the farmer is becoming friend to Briony . When Donna has a health ploblem both sister must come together to save their mothers life . Will Bex be able to forgive her little sister ?
I received this book from netgalley , the author and the publisher as an ARC . Thank you . All thoughts and opinions are my own .

[Rustic_Reads_ Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sisters Bex and Briony were once inseparable, until one life-altering decision tore them apart. Years later, Bex has built the life she always wanted, while Briony lives a nomadic existence, watching from afar. When their mum falls gravely ill, the sisters are forced back into each other’s lives- bringing unresolved pain, buried secrets, and the possibility of healing.

This is the second in the Cornish Bay collection but I found it worked perfectly as a standalone. It was such an emotional and heartwarming read about sisterhood, forgiveness, and finding your way back home. The strained relationship between Bex and Briony felt incredibly real, and I loved how the story slowly peeled back the layers of their past.

Jo Bartlett writes with so much warmth and sensitivity, especially when exploring family dynamics and difficult emotions. I found myself really rooting for both sisters, even when their choices frustrated me. The glamping setting added a cosy, uplifting backdrop that balanced the heavier themes beautifully.

It’s a story about second chances - not just in love, but in family - and it left me feeling hopeful and reflective. Definitely one to pick up if you enjoy emotional, character-driven reads.

[Meg Pearson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Back Where We Belong is a deeply emotional and beautifully written story about sisterhood, forgiveness, and the long road back to each other. Bex and Briony were once inseparable, each other’s whole world, until everything shattered when Briony was found in the arms of Bex’s fiancé. Sixteen years later, their lives could not be more different. Bex is happily married to Matt, raising three wonderful children, and living her dream running a campsite on the family farm, while Briony drifts from place to place in a camper with her dog Merlin, her reasons for this lifestyle slowly unfolding as the story progresses. When illness forces the sisters back into each other’s lives, the reunion is anything but easy. This is a true slow burn, with no instant forgiveness or easy resolutions, and that honesty makes it all the more powerful. The emotions feel raw and real, and the complicated bond between the sisters is handled with such care and depth. I loved revisiting familiar characters, whose cameos added warmth and a sense of community that grounded the story beautifully. This was a compelling and heartfelt read that stayed with me long after I finished. Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Ashley Kanazawich · Rating 4 out of 5]

Back Where We Belong is exactly what I hoped a Jo Bartlett women's fiction novel would be. Warm, emotionally honest, and full of characters written with so much compassion that I could not help but feel everything alongside them.

Bex and Briony are sisters who spent fifteen years apart after one decision fractured something that should have been unbreakable. Jo Bartlett gives us both of them fully, their pain and their love and their flaws, and somehow makes it possible to disagree with their choices completely while still rooting for them with your whole heart. When a writer can do that, they are doing something special.

What I love about Jo Bartlett's writing is the way she builds emotional investment slowly and deliberately and then pulls the one thread that unravels everything. She does not let her characters take the easy road. She makes them face their fears and their flaws honestly before they can earn anything on the other side, and that makes the resolution feel genuinely satisfying rather than convenient.

This is a book about family, forgiveness, remorse, and whether trust can be rebuilt after years of distance and silence. It is tender and real and it left me with a full heart. A really lovely read.

[Rebecca Parten · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an advanced reader copy. The opinions expressed are mine alone.

Jo Bartlett has a way of writing that is relaxing but filled with profound emotions and ideas. “Back Where We Belong” is no exception. Something that is different about this novel versus the others I’ve read by her is that while romance is a theme, the story is much more about, sisterly bonds, betrayal and forgiveness. The characters were reliable to an extent. As an older sister, I understand the betrayal that Bex felt after what her sister did. But, I can’t imagine holding onto the anger like she does and what it cost her. I did have a general feeling of the direction the story was going to take and eventually end up but the details along the way were different than what I expected. The emotions each sister was experiencing was much more of the focus than the possible romantic one. But, it was also frustrating at times because I wanted things to move forward more quickly. But the way it’s written is likely more realistic. All in all, I enjoyed this one just like I’ve enjoyed all of her novels.

[Colin Bell · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bex and her sister Briony haven't talked for 16 years after an incident caused their previously very close relationship to fall apart. Since then Bex is now happily married with three boys. Briony is a van dweller with a successful social presence, but hasn't returned to their home in Cornwall since leaving. When their mother becomes seriously ill Bex has to try to contact Briony for her help.
This is part of a series, although it can be read as a standalone, which I enjoy as you have a common setting, reoccurring characters but the freshness of new characters as well. It does cover some very serious issues, but isn't too negative whilst doing this. I could talk about how emotional it is with the two girls trying to help their mother despite their personal animosity, but it does show much I loved this book when, after reading for 20 minutes at bedtime I then woke up at 3am and then had to read it all the way through because I was so invested in the story. In summary a very emotional book that I really loved.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Back Where We Belong is the latest wonderful novel from the equally fabulous author Jo Bartlett, and is the second installment in The Cornish Bay Collection.

We return to Port Agnes with Bex, who we were introduced to in the first book. I loved delving into her journey as she transitions from her much loved role at the local primary school to support her husband on the farm while fulfilling her dream of opening a campsite. However, her focus shifts dramatically due to some heart-wrenching family news. Will they be able to unite and face these challenges together?

I loved that Bex is a down to earth mummy, who would go to great lengths for her family. The struggles she faces are astonishing yet incredibly relatable to many, including myself! I have had a fractured relationship with my brother for over 25 years, and it’s sadly challenging. In my opinion, Jo writes from the heart, infusing her novels with real-life experiences. You feel like a part of the community or family in every one of her stories. I definitely needed tissues while reading, and I suspect you will too!

Don't miss out - grab your copy today!

[Barbara Powell · Rating 3 out of 5]

Bex is enjoying life with her husband and sons until she finds out her mother has liver cancer and wont let her be a donor because she needs to be there for her boys. Which means Bex will have to find her long lost black sheep sister Briony, who hurt Bex massively many years ago, and bring her back home to be a donor since the last her parents had heard she hadnt married or had children. Briony now has a huge social media following so Bex catches up with what she's been up to and she seems to be happy living her nomadic lifestyle with her dog Merlin. But is it all a facade? Has it been too long for them to reconcile?
There are several familiar faces from Port Agnes in this book but even if you havent read any others in this series. you wont be lost the characters are well described and developed on their own in this one. It's set once again in a gorgeous Cornish town and it's a story filled with family, friendship, second chances and even some romance A great beach read Thanks to Boldwood Book and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange foe my review

[Ade · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very Emotional

4.5⭐️

A touching story of forgiveness, love, second chances and sisterhood set in gorgeous picturesque Cornwall.

Sisters Bex and Briony fell apart when Bex found Briony kissing her fiancé weeks to her wedding.
Sixteen years later and with their mom sick, Bex has to find her wanderlust sister and bring her home.

As with all Jo’s book, this was hard to put down. Once I started, I couldn’t stop. There was so much packed in.

This book explores betrayal, assumptions, stubbornness and how sometimes our best intentions can be misunderstood.

I love how relatable this was- the main characters, their fallout and its aftermath. It turned emotional at some point and I didn’t want it to end badly.

There were times I got exasperated with Bex’s actions. I understood her actions when the incident occurred but sixteen years is too long to hold a grudge especially since life turned out well for her.

This is a book that would stay with me and I can’t wait to read what the author comes up with next.

[Dawn Probert · Rating 4 out of 5]

A tale of once inseparable sisters Bex and Briony who were each other’s everything until Briony is found in the arms of Bex’s fiancé. Then life changes forever. 16 years have passed and Bex is happily married to Matt and a mum of three pretty terrific kids. She’s got her life’s dreams and is running a campsite on the farm that heels husband owns. Briony lives off grid in a camper travelling around the country with her dog Merlin. What we don’t know is how she finds this but quickly into the book that becomes apparent. An Illness causes the sisters to be reunited. This book is slow burn and there is no quick falling back into each others lives. All is not forgiven and forgotten instantly. It’s honest and raw and the book feels all the better for it.
I loved catching up with the other charachter so much. The cameos are sweet and fun and keep it grounded. This was a really good read and I loved it.
Thank you NetGalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Sapphyria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Back Where We Belong is a fantastic book about estranged sisters who have been estranged but a over a decade. When Bex finds Briony in a compromising position with Bex's fiance, she leaves and doesn't look back. Over the years, Bex has found happiness in Matt and her three children. When their mother becomes ill, Bex now has to try and locate Briony. With Briony comes the events of the past along with a second chance to rekindle their close, sisterly bond.

I really enjoyed Back Where We Belong. Estranged sisters who reunite over a decade since they last saw one another. The possibility of second chances. Secrets revealed. This heartwarming tale has so much in it that draws the reader in and won't let go until the very last page.

I loved the characters and the setting. The author wrote this story with realism. I was drawn in by the synopsis and kept engaged by the wonderful writing, fantastic characters, and vivid imagery.

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

Two sisters grew up as close as can be
Then were parted by an emotional catastrophe.
They've not seen or spoken for so many years
After Briony's actions left Bex heartbroken and in tears.

Now their mother is ill, can Bex find Briony now?
She needs her help but doesn't know how.
Will this help to heal wounds from the past
Or will nothing reunite them at last?

A story filled with drama and some familiar characters, too!
A heartwarming read, emotional all the way through.
Can Briony get Bex to listen and forgive her at last?
Can they both help heal each other from their past?

This talented author has written such a great read
Filled with family dramas with healing they all need.
An emotive read, with great characters, too,
With so many things they need to work through.

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

[Leanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

Bex and Briony are sisters who like most families have disagreements but after a act of betrayal by Briony the sisters are estranged for over sixteen years. Then there mother has a terrifying diagnosis and the sisters will have to band together to try and save their mother. I enjoyed the realism of this story it grabbed me hard and I became immersed into hoping for the best outcome. It felt real to me because I have dealt with similar things in my own life like what is happening in the book. I once again thank Jo Bartlett for not being afraid to touch the medical issues that we don't like to talk about because of fear. It means a lot to so many people. I love the characters old and new and I am hoping that we get to read Briony and Tristan's story at some stage. Back Where We Belong is a little bit of emotional escapism.

[Pam Robertson · Rating 4 out of 5]

Family is at the centre of this story and in particular how two sisters, once so close, now estranged can find a way to a happier future. Bex's relationship with her mother and step father is close but underneath the surface turns out to be very complicated. Bex's mother has a difficult task to keep her relationships with her two sisters separate, In the background are Bex's husband and brother, both so supportive of her.

Briony, Bex's sister has been living a rather lonely but unconventional life but the two sisters' paths cross because of a trauma concerning their mother. They have to put aside their grievances for her sake. Forgiveness, mutual understanding and having the courage to face some truths make this such a great read.

In short: friends and family
Thanks to the publisher

[Sarahlovesbooks76 · Rating 3 out of 5]

The latest book by Jo Bartlett is the second in her latest series set in Cornwall. It works as a standalone, but there are lots of wonderful appearances by familiar faces from her other books.

Bex and Briony are estranged sisters, but when a family emergency means they need to be back in contact, can the women put aside their problems and help?

I usually love Jo Bartlett's books, but unfortunately this is not a favourite of mine. I was extremely irritated by both Bex and Briony - Briony simply needed to talk to her sister first, and then Bex let it all fester! I am not a big fan of books where the story would be over quickly if characters just talked. I did however love Briony's way of life, I really liked the descriptions of her camper van and I adored her dog.

[Steph · Rating 4 out of 5]

This fabulous read tells the story of two estranged sisters who (through their mother falling ill) have to work on their relationship. This book has everything: love, laughter, friendship, family, community, thoughtfulness – it’s a story of forgiveness and reconciliation. It sure pulls on your heartstrings and keeps you wondering if everything will work out just fine.
As I already said: a fabulous read!

Apparently this is part of the Cornish Bay Series, but can also be read as a standalone.
I have never read a book by this author before, but am already looking forward to more stories written by her. Would absolutely recommend this one!

Thank you to Boldwood Books, Jo Bartlett and NetGalley for this ARC!

[Emma H · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another lovely book in this series set in beautiful Cornwall. I love revisiting the village, catching up with a group of friends and how it links into other books by this author with familiar characters from the hospital.

Full of emotion and feelings this book is another great story. Sisters who were very close separated after a betrayal, parents stuck in the middle, is there any way back?

Having a sister myself I found I could relate to many aspects of this book. I love the natural way relationships develop and the warmth and depths of feelings each character reveals. I can’t wait for the next book - a heartwarming story.

[Jacqui · Rating 4 out of 5]

Bex and Briony were inseparable growing up, until Briony's reckless attempt to break up her sister's engagement. When their mother is seriously ill, Bex and Briony come face to face after more than a decade of estrangement.

This is the second in a series but could be read as a standalone. I enjoyed this story, and since it's set in the same town as the author's Cornish Hospital series, it was fun to see some familiar faces from that series as well. I enjoyed the story and the relationship between Bex and Briony. It showed the trauma they both had from a useless father who treated them poorly. This had:

- the bonds of sisterhood
- trauma from a useless father
- the loneliness of being an influencer
- life on the road
- coming back home
- dealing with cancer
- family secrets and the ties that bind
- life in Cornwall

I'm looking forward to the next in the series. Jo Bartlett has a way of telling engaging stories with great characters and bringing Cornwall to life.

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