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The Wash-Ashores: A Novel
With only one summer to turn things around, one woman finds herself fighting to hold together the one place that’s always felt like home with the people who have become like family, in this summery novel from USA TODAY bestselling author of The Sandy Page Bookshop.
Thirty-year-old Holly has inherited the historic Cranberry Inn on Cape Cod from her grandmother, Francine. Only Francine is not dead. At least not yet. And she’s not fully convinced the Cranberry Inn is the right fit for Holly; despite its rich maritime history, the Victorian beauty is showing its age and it’s so much work. Besides, she has an offer from a developer that she’s not sure she can turn down.
Unsure what to do, Francine decides she cannot let Holly take over without a dry run summer. As Francine tries to sequester herself to the sidelines, Holly finally has the chance to prove herself. And time is of essence because this summer they are hosting the Suttons, a prominent New York family of a famed social media influencer who expect no less than perfection for their only daughter’s summer nuptials. A move that Holly is convinced will boost the inn’s revenue and steer it back on track.
If that weren’t enough, Ben is back. Ben’s family has summered in the house across the cove from the Cranberry Inn since Holly and Ben were kids. Like her, he’s starting his own family an oyster farm just up the shore. Only Holly hasn’t seen Ben since he shocked her with news of his engagement to another woman several years ago. The way they left things was like a conversation unfinished, and one that Ben seems interested in revisiting.
With a wedding looming and a bride hedging and a staff feeling adrift, can Holly pull everyone together to ensure that the beloved Cranberry Inn will survive another summer?
Thirty-year-old Holly has inherited the historic Cranberry Inn on Cape Cod from her grandmother, Francine. Only Francine is not dead. At least not yet. And she’s not fully convinced the Cranberry Inn is the right fit for Holly; despite its rich maritime history, the Victorian beauty is showing its age and it’s so much work. Besides, she has an offer from a developer that she’s not sure she can turn down.
Unsure what to do, Francine decides she cannot let Holly take over without a dry run summer. As Francine tries to sequester herself to the sidelines, Holly finally has the chance to prove herself. And time is of essence because this summer they are hosting the Suttons, a prominent New York family of a famed social media influencer who expect no less than perfection for their only daughter’s summer nuptials. A move that Holly is convinced will boost the inn’s revenue and steer it back on track.
If that weren’t enough, Ben is back. Ben’s family has summered in the house across the cove from the Cranberry Inn since Holly and Ben were kids. Like her, he’s starting his own family an oyster farm just up the shore. Only Holly hasn’t seen Ben since he shocked her with news of his engagement to another woman several years ago. The way they left things was like a conversation unfinished, and one that Ben seems interested in revisiting.
With a wedding looming and a bride hedging and a staff feeling adrift, can Holly pull everyone together to ensure that the beloved Cranberry Inn will survive another summer?
Audible Audio
Published June 30, 2026
About the author
Hannah McKinnon
15 books701 followersAuthor of The Wash-Ashores, (USA Today Bestseller) The Sandy Page Bookshop, The Darlings, The Sumer Club, Message in the Sand, The Lake Season, Mystic Summer, The Summer House, Sailing Lessons, The View From Here with Emily Bestler Books/Simon & Schuster and two YA titles, Franny Parker and The Properties of Water with Farrar Strauss & Giroux/MacMillan.
Follow me on Instagram @hannahmckinnonwrites
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Follow me on Instagram @hannahmckinnonwrites
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 65 reviews
June 28, 2026
Thank you to Atria Books and Goodreads for the ARC.
Where do I begin?
I had just finished reading a horror book before starting this one and was looking for something a little lighter for my next read. At first, I wasn’t sure I had made the right choice because it took me a few chapters to really get into it, but once I did, I couldn’t stop reading.
I became so invested in the characters, and the coastal setting made this feel like the perfect summer read. I ended up reading most of it while sitting lakeside, which honestly made the whole experience even better.
Hannah McKinnon did such a great job bringing the Cranberry Inn to life. I could picture every detail of the inn, imagine tasting the food being described, and really feel why this place meant so much to the people connected to it.
If you’re looking for a summer read that will make you smile and maybe even have you feeling like someone is cutting onions nearby, I definitely recommend picking this one up.
Where do I begin?
I had just finished reading a horror book before starting this one and was looking for something a little lighter for my next read. At first, I wasn’t sure I had made the right choice because it took me a few chapters to really get into it, but once I did, I couldn’t stop reading.
I became so invested in the characters, and the coastal setting made this feel like the perfect summer read. I ended up reading most of it while sitting lakeside, which honestly made the whole experience even better.
Hannah McKinnon did such a great job bringing the Cranberry Inn to life. I could picture every detail of the inn, imagine tasting the food being described, and really feel why this place meant so much to the people connected to it.
If you’re looking for a summer read that will make you smile and maybe even have you feeling like someone is cutting onions nearby, I definitely recommend picking this one up.
July 8, 2026
The Wash-Ashores is a wonderful summer read that gives you all the feels. Holly has been given a fantastic opportunity from her grandmother, Francine. Francine has given Holly her beloved Cranberry Inn to run for the summer. The Cranberry Inn has been in the family a long time and Holly has special childhood memories from her time spent here. The Inn has fallen on hard times and Francine will have to sell it if Holly can't turn it around this summer. Holly can't wait to take over and gets every room redecorated and perfect for her summer customers. Holly has lots of ideas to turn the Inn into a thriving destination on the Cape and hopes they pay off. One of Holly's best memories over her childhood here was her good friend, Ben, who lived across the water. Ben broke her heart when he told her he was engaged after they got back from college. Holly always figured they'd end up together.
Holly throws herself into work and the Inn is looking better than ever. She's taken on a huge responsibility of hosting a prominent family on their daughter's wedding weekend. When food is delivered to the kitchen door, Holly is shocked to see Ben delivering the oysters. Ben is back in Chatham and has started an oyster business with his brother. As intriguing as this is to Holly, she knows he's married and keeps things cool with him. Will Holly be able to get the Cranberry Inn up and thriving before summer ends? Will Ben and Holly reconnect? Why is Ben in Chatham when he is a lawyer who works 2 hours away? Throw in a dog, a grieving widower next door, and you'll be unable to get these people out of your mind! I absolutely loved The Wash-Ashores and hated for it to end. I loved the story and the characters so much that I was sad to put it down. I rate The Wash-Ashores 5 stars with my highest recommendation. The book is out now and should be added to your TBR pile. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Atria Books for an advanced copy of The Wash-Ashores in exchange for a fair review.
Holly throws herself into work and the Inn is looking better than ever. She's taken on a huge responsibility of hosting a prominent family on their daughter's wedding weekend. When food is delivered to the kitchen door, Holly is shocked to see Ben delivering the oysters. Ben is back in Chatham and has started an oyster business with his brother. As intriguing as this is to Holly, she knows he's married and keeps things cool with him. Will Holly be able to get the Cranberry Inn up and thriving before summer ends? Will Ben and Holly reconnect? Why is Ben in Chatham when he is a lawyer who works 2 hours away? Throw in a dog, a grieving widower next door, and you'll be unable to get these people out of your mind! I absolutely loved The Wash-Ashores and hated for it to end. I loved the story and the characters so much that I was sad to put it down. I rate The Wash-Ashores 5 stars with my highest recommendation. The book is out now and should be added to your TBR pile. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Atria Books for an advanced copy of The Wash-Ashores in exchange for a fair review.
June 30, 2026
Thank you to Atria for the gifted copy.
Synopsis: Holly inherits her geandmother’s Cape Cod inn and has one summer to prove that she can turn things around to make the business successful again.
Thoughts: You’re going to want to pack this book in your beach bag immediately! The dreamy Cape Cod summer setting makes for a perfect beach read, and Hannah does an amazing job at making the setting come to life. I felt transported to the East Coast and the Cranberry Inn. Not only that, but the characters will melt your heart. Strong found family vibes are my favorite, and these characters formed the loveliest relationships that made me smile and maybe tear up a bit. Highly recommend adding this one to your summer reading list!
Read this if you like:
⛱️ beach town setting
⛱️ Cape Cod
⛱️ save the family business
⛱️ second chance romance
⛱️ found family
Synopsis: Holly inherits her geandmother’s Cape Cod inn and has one summer to prove that she can turn things around to make the business successful again.
Thoughts: You’re going to want to pack this book in your beach bag immediately! The dreamy Cape Cod summer setting makes for a perfect beach read, and Hannah does an amazing job at making the setting come to life. I felt transported to the East Coast and the Cranberry Inn. Not only that, but the characters will melt your heart. Strong found family vibes are my favorite, and these characters formed the loveliest relationships that made me smile and maybe tear up a bit. Highly recommend adding this one to your summer reading list!
Read this if you like:
⛱️ beach town setting
⛱️ Cape Cod
⛱️ save the family business
⛱️ second chance romance
⛱️ found family
Read
July 23, 2026While I question the title (not the intent, but the need to put a hyphen in which made searching this book hard to find) and was a little nervous about the MANY POVs at first, I ended up loving this book.
First off, I am very familiar with Chatham and the Mid-Cape, as I've often vacationed there. I loved how McKinnon dropped the fictional Cranberry Inn right into the Pleasant Bay/Chatham area as if it really existed. I'd call this book female-centered fiction with a romance subplot, and in tone and structure reminded me a little of Pamela Kelley's Nantucket book series.
When a young woman takes over her grandmother's charming inn, she has her hands full: a mysterious Swedish chef, a persnickety inn manager, a cranky neighbor, difficult guests, and the unexpected return of the guy she loved with all her heart. Can she keep the inn running amidst all this chaos??
Thanks to the publisher for providing an advance copy for review!
First off, I am very familiar with Chatham and the Mid-Cape, as I've often vacationed there. I loved how McKinnon dropped the fictional Cranberry Inn right into the Pleasant Bay/Chatham area as if it really existed. I'd call this book female-centered fiction with a romance subplot, and in tone and structure reminded me a little of Pamela Kelley's Nantucket book series.
When a young woman takes over her grandmother's charming inn, she has her hands full: a mysterious Swedish chef, a persnickety inn manager, a cranky neighbor, difficult guests, and the unexpected return of the guy she loved with all her heart. Can she keep the inn running amidst all this chaos??
Thanks to the publisher for providing an advance copy for review!
July 23, 2026
“….𝘞𝘩𝘺 𝘥𝘪𝘥 𝘱𝘦𝘰𝘱𝘭𝘦 𝘴𝘢𝘷𝘦 𝘫𝘰𝘺?”
After being introduced to McKinnon’s 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘆 𝗣𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗽 last year, I jumped at the chance to read her latest. What I remember fondly of her writing is calm comfort, and glimpses into people’s lives, and how they all affect each other. The magic formula remains intact.
Centering around the local, coastal Cranberry Inn, Holly couldn’t have known how renovating and updating her grandmother’s beloved inn would bring so many folks together. In an effort to gain word of-mouth traction, she rents it out for a wedding weekend of an influencer. This sets many things in motion, and we experience the event from various perspectives. One of my favorite subplots reminds me of A Man Called Ove which made me smile. Ezra’s insight thanks to age and wisdom bring clarity to what he witnesses, and he in turn finds his own spark again. There’s are also a couple of blossoming romances to root for.
There’s a Hallmark feel to these books that let you ride the waves of several emotions before arriving at the happily for now or ever after. That’s the comfort and the good-feels, wanting reassurance that things will work out. Pick up this effortless summer read, and enjoy!
Thanks @atriabooks for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
After being introduced to McKinnon’s 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝗱𝘆 𝗣𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝗕𝗼𝗼𝗸𝘀𝗵𝗼𝗽 last year, I jumped at the chance to read her latest. What I remember fondly of her writing is calm comfort, and glimpses into people’s lives, and how they all affect each other. The magic formula remains intact.
Centering around the local, coastal Cranberry Inn, Holly couldn’t have known how renovating and updating her grandmother’s beloved inn would bring so many folks together. In an effort to gain word of-mouth traction, she rents it out for a wedding weekend of an influencer. This sets many things in motion, and we experience the event from various perspectives. One of my favorite subplots reminds me of A Man Called Ove which made me smile. Ezra’s insight thanks to age and wisdom bring clarity to what he witnesses, and he in turn finds his own spark again. There’s are also a couple of blossoming romances to root for.
There’s a Hallmark feel to these books that let you ride the waves of several emotions before arriving at the happily for now or ever after. That’s the comfort and the good-feels, wanting reassurance that things will work out. Pick up this effortless summer read, and enjoy!
Thanks @atriabooks for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
July 22, 2026
Thank you Atria books for this #gifted book!
4/5 stars
I went into this book without reading the synopsis and truly loved the journey that Hannah McKinnon took me on with these amazing characters. I felt like this book took me a few chapters to get into but once I got to know the characters, I couldn't stop reading, I had to know how it would end!
The coastal town setting is its own character, and I loved learning more about the lifestyle on the east coast shore. This book is a perfect summer read by the pool or on the beach.
I enjoyed the sub plot of the wedding at the Cranberry Inn and how the staff at the Inn had to work together to make the weekend what it was. My favorite character was Ezra, the grumpy neighbor that showed his artistic side and became such an important part of the story. The author did a fantastic job bringing the Inn to life and I could picture the rooms and smell the food Greta was making that comforted so many people!
Read this book if you like:
-Beach town settings
-save the family business
-second chance romance
-found family
-Cape Cod
4/5 stars
I went into this book without reading the synopsis and truly loved the journey that Hannah McKinnon took me on with these amazing characters. I felt like this book took me a few chapters to get into but once I got to know the characters, I couldn't stop reading, I had to know how it would end!
The coastal town setting is its own character, and I loved learning more about the lifestyle on the east coast shore. This book is a perfect summer read by the pool or on the beach.
I enjoyed the sub plot of the wedding at the Cranberry Inn and how the staff at the Inn had to work together to make the weekend what it was. My favorite character was Ezra, the grumpy neighbor that showed his artistic side and became such an important part of the story. The author did a fantastic job bringing the Inn to life and I could picture the rooms and smell the food Greta was making that comforted so many people!
Read this book if you like:
-Beach town settings
-save the family business
-second chance romance
-found family
-Cape Cod
July 3, 2026
I am still reeling from the novel The Wash-Ashores by Hannah McKinnon. Such a beautiful setting in Cape Cod region. The story of an historic inn struggling to survive. Will it become a victim to the ever-encroaching corporate condos? Or will Holly be able to turn her grandmother Francine's legacy around?
But this story is so much more. It's a story of childhood memories. A story of loves found, lost, and found again. A story of strong female protagonists surviving what life throws at them. It's messy, yet life is often messy. And a perfect ending!
Released June 30th. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
But this story is so much more. It's a story of childhood memories. A story of loves found, lost, and found again. A story of strong female protagonists surviving what life throws at them. It's messy, yet life is often messy. And a perfect ending!
Released June 30th. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 26, 2026
my first five star read in a long time! I was sucked in from the very start. Loved the “save the family business” type storyline in cape cod, where along with your short chapters, multiple (but easy to follow) povs, and past/future romances. This is a great yet quick read to take with you to the beach! Thank you atria for my physical ARC!
July 12, 2026
Perfect Cape Cod summer beach read.
July 5, 2026
Holly Goodwin, is back at her grandmother’s Cranberry House Inn that was built in 1853. Grandmother Francine and her husband ran the inn together for many years. Now, Francine is 80 and alone and while she does not want to sell the Inn, has asked her granddaughter, Holly to come and run the Inn while she remains in the background. Holly has always loved the place and sees the work that needs to be done to bring it back to life. and to modernize many aspects of running the place. After many months of work, they are ready to open for the season. There are 10 bedrooms perfectly decorated and ready for guests.
The Inn is surrounded by beautiful flowers and organic vegetables. Their cook is Greta who has created her own delicious recipes. Oliver is the gardener who lovingly grows and cares for the beautiful produce. Greta and Oliver spark a romance that they keep secret.
Ezra is their neighbor. He is a retired surgeon, a widower and loves to paint. When startled by Bruce, Holly’s large dog, Holly apologizes and invites Ezra for dinner. Ezra is very depressed and thinking of ending his life. Then he sees some a beautiful painting on the wall of the Inn and offers to repair it. This may be the spark he needs to see life as promising.
Ben was the boy that Holly spent summers with. They always had a great time and she hated to see him return home at the end of the summer. The last time she saw him was when he told her he was going to marry someone. That broke her heart but she understood. Now, Ben is back working with his brother as they have an oyster farm, raising and selling oysters. Seeing him again is bittersweet as he tells her he is now divorced. However, she is shielding her heart from him.
The summer is filled with ups and downs at the Cranberry Inn as they struggle to keep the place open. With setbacks and successes, the Inn blossoms and the plans Holly had for it slowly come about.
This is a delightful story with lots of happiness and angsts. All of the characters are so very well-developed. The descriptions of the Inn, the food and events simply tugs at one’s heart. I hope readers will enjoy this story as much as I did.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
The Inn is surrounded by beautiful flowers and organic vegetables. Their cook is Greta who has created her own delicious recipes. Oliver is the gardener who lovingly grows and cares for the beautiful produce. Greta and Oliver spark a romance that they keep secret.
Ezra is their neighbor. He is a retired surgeon, a widower and loves to paint. When startled by Bruce, Holly’s large dog, Holly apologizes and invites Ezra for dinner. Ezra is very depressed and thinking of ending his life. Then he sees some a beautiful painting on the wall of the Inn and offers to repair it. This may be the spark he needs to see life as promising.
Ben was the boy that Holly spent summers with. They always had a great time and she hated to see him return home at the end of the summer. The last time she saw him was when he told her he was going to marry someone. That broke her heart but she understood. Now, Ben is back working with his brother as they have an oyster farm, raising and selling oysters. Seeing him again is bittersweet as he tells her he is now divorced. However, she is shielding her heart from him.
The summer is filled with ups and downs at the Cranberry Inn as they struggle to keep the place open. With setbacks and successes, the Inn blossoms and the plans Holly had for it slowly come about.
This is a delightful story with lots of happiness and angsts. All of the characters are so very well-developed. The descriptions of the Inn, the food and events simply tugs at one’s heart. I hope readers will enjoy this story as much as I did.
Copy provided by NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The Wash-Ashores by Hannah McKinnon is a highly recommended women's fiction/beach read for the right reader. Set on Cape Cod, the plot brings a feel-good Hallmark movie to mind as characters have personal entanglements.
Holly is taking over running the historic Cranberry Inn on Cape Cod in hopes of inheriting it from her grandmother Francine. Francine is ready to retire, maybe, but she is unsure Holly can run and update the inn on her own. Holly is determined to keep the Cranberry up, running, and profitable, knowing that if she doesn't her grandmother has a developer interested in buying it. The summer takes off at a gallop, Holly is working nonstop to keep her team working toward the goal and make a profit. Part of Holly's plan is to open up the inn to events and this summer a prominent New York family, the Suttons, are bring the whole bridal party there in preparation for their daughter’s wedding.
This is a very descriptive novel that creates the setting and then focuses more on the characters than the actual day to day running of the inn, although certainly some of the daily complications are necessary to keep the setting and tone of the novel realistic and create drama. The inn is the setting for the many romantic/personal relationships and complications. Employees at the inn are like family to each other in the way that many high stress jobs create a closeness between employees. It's the love lost and found plot points that drive the narrative forward.
Holly's previous love interest Ben is back. Greta and Oliver slowly make a connection. A bride is suddenly hedging. Ezra finds a purpose and pleasure in life again. Francine struggles with letting go. Guests create drama and demands. Linus keeps everything running smoothly. And Holly makes plans to expand Cranberry Inn's business. 3.5 rounded up.
The Wash-Ashores is a good choice for an entertaining summer vacation read that will appeal to women. Thanks to Atria/Emily Bestler Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2026/0...
Holly is taking over running the historic Cranberry Inn on Cape Cod in hopes of inheriting it from her grandmother Francine. Francine is ready to retire, maybe, but she is unsure Holly can run and update the inn on her own. Holly is determined to keep the Cranberry up, running, and profitable, knowing that if she doesn't her grandmother has a developer interested in buying it. The summer takes off at a gallop, Holly is working nonstop to keep her team working toward the goal and make a profit. Part of Holly's plan is to open up the inn to events and this summer a prominent New York family, the Suttons, are bring the whole bridal party there in preparation for their daughter’s wedding.
This is a very descriptive novel that creates the setting and then focuses more on the characters than the actual day to day running of the inn, although certainly some of the daily complications are necessary to keep the setting and tone of the novel realistic and create drama. The inn is the setting for the many romantic/personal relationships and complications. Employees at the inn are like family to each other in the way that many high stress jobs create a closeness between employees. It's the love lost and found plot points that drive the narrative forward.
Holly's previous love interest Ben is back. Greta and Oliver slowly make a connection. A bride is suddenly hedging. Ezra finds a purpose and pleasure in life again. Francine struggles with letting go. Guests create drama and demands. Linus keeps everything running smoothly. And Holly makes plans to expand Cranberry Inn's business. 3.5 rounded up.
The Wash-Ashores is a good choice for an entertaining summer vacation read that will appeal to women. Thanks to Atria/Emily Bestler Books for providing me with an advance reader's copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary and expresses my honest opinion.
http://www.shetreadssoftly.com/2026/0...
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The perfect vacation would be a trip to Cape Cod and fortunately for me, Hannah McKinnon’s new book, “The Wash-Ashores” takes place on the Cape so I didn’t even have to leave my deck to enjoy this wonderful story. There are so many unforgettable characters in this book but my favorite is Ezra, a retired surgeon and widower who isn’t sure how he sees his future anymore. His daughter and her family live on the West Coast and are unable to visit him this summer which has made him very sad. He is wistful for the life he had when his wife Rachel would share the glorious Cape Cod summers with him. Ezra hated to admit that he was lonely, but one day a mischievous dog arrived out of nowhere who would ultimately lead him to the Cranberry Inn where his life would change right before his eyes. The proprietress of the Inn, Holly, the granddaughter of the owner, was in charge of the Inn this summer and was surrounded by a group of friends who she couldn’t live without.
Holly’s chef, Greta, is ready for the summer with her delicious and unique recipes. Linus, her front desk manager, cocktail creator and social media expert was looking forward to a busy and hopefully, drama-free summer. Oliver is the man in charge of the lush vegetable gardens that provide fresh produce for the Inn’s farm to table menu. Everyone at the Cranberry Inn came from somewhere else, hence the title of our book, which refers to individuals who are "newcomers to a coastal or island community.” They became a tight knit family that brought joy and happiness to each other and all of their guests! A summer on Cape Cod is a dream come true for most people with its quaint shops, magical sunsets and fun days at the beach. Holly felt more at home on the Cape than where she actually grew up. Her high school boyfriend, Ben, was also back on the Cape for the summer, bringing with him all the memories of their special time together. Holly had no time for romance, but perhaps the magic of the Cranberry Inn would bring her good luck, success and a second chance at love.
Holly’s chef, Greta, is ready for the summer with her delicious and unique recipes. Linus, her front desk manager, cocktail creator and social media expert was looking forward to a busy and hopefully, drama-free summer. Oliver is the man in charge of the lush vegetable gardens that provide fresh produce for the Inn’s farm to table menu. Everyone at the Cranberry Inn came from somewhere else, hence the title of our book, which refers to individuals who are "newcomers to a coastal or island community.” They became a tight knit family that brought joy and happiness to each other and all of their guests! A summer on Cape Cod is a dream come true for most people with its quaint shops, magical sunsets and fun days at the beach. Holly felt more at home on the Cape than where she actually grew up. Her high school boyfriend, Ben, was also back on the Cape for the summer, bringing with him all the memories of their special time together. Holly had no time for romance, but perhaps the magic of the Cranberry Inn would bring her good luck, success and a second chance at love.
July 15, 2026
Gosh, there’s just something about an inn on Cape Cod that feels like summer, isn’t there?
Francine has been running the Cranberry Inn for many years, but both she and the inn have gotten older and a developer has been sniffing around. Her granddaughter Holly wants to take over the inn and this summer is her dry run, with Francine watching not entirely silently from the wings. Now the inn is spruced up, Holly is about to host the inn’s first-ever wedding weekend, and her old crush Ben is back on the Cape for the summer too.
If you love a small town second chance romance that’s teeming with found family, you won’t want to miss this charming novel. The endearing cast of characters is what makes this book so special – from Linus the front desk manager to Greta the Swedish chef (my personal favorite), Oliver the gardener with ties to the wedding weekend, and Ezra, the lonely widower next door, they all found their way into my heart. I highly recommend tucking this lovely, emotional summer read into your beach bag!
The audiobook is skillfully narrated by Dara Rosenberg, Nina Yndis, Matt Pittenger, and Fred Sanders, with separate narrators taking each of the multiple perspectives, which really enhanced the reading experience! I especially enjoyed the narration of Greta’s POV, which is voiced with a light, authentic-sounding, Swedish accent.
Thank you to Atria Books and Simon Audio for providing me #gifted copies of this book #AtriaPartner
Francine has been running the Cranberry Inn for many years, but both she and the inn have gotten older and a developer has been sniffing around. Her granddaughter Holly wants to take over the inn and this summer is her dry run, with Francine watching not entirely silently from the wings. Now the inn is spruced up, Holly is about to host the inn’s first-ever wedding weekend, and her old crush Ben is back on the Cape for the summer too.
If you love a small town second chance romance that’s teeming with found family, you won’t want to miss this charming novel. The endearing cast of characters is what makes this book so special – from Linus the front desk manager to Greta the Swedish chef (my personal favorite), Oliver the gardener with ties to the wedding weekend, and Ezra, the lonely widower next door, they all found their way into my heart. I highly recommend tucking this lovely, emotional summer read into your beach bag!
The audiobook is skillfully narrated by Dara Rosenberg, Nina Yndis, Matt Pittenger, and Fred Sanders, with separate narrators taking each of the multiple perspectives, which really enhanced the reading experience! I especially enjoyed the narration of Greta’s POV, which is voiced with a light, authentic-sounding, Swedish accent.
Thank you to Atria Books and Simon Audio for providing me #gifted copies of this book #AtriaPartner
July 2, 2026
4.25⭐️
Holly returns home to spend the summer running the Cranberry Inn, hoping to prevent her grandmother Francine from selling it to developers. The setting is absolutely enchanting - picture a Victorian mansion from 1853 with rich history, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the water.
What unfolds is a heartwarming story where two of the most unlikely characters develop a beautiful friendship that will surprise and delight you. Love blooms in multiple forms throughout the pages. Friends rally together to lovingly transform the inn into something fresh for visitors while carefully restoring its original Victorian beauty.
These relationships are built on genuine love and affection, creating bonds so strong they become like family. The characters feel authentic and endearing - I found myself completely invested in each of their journeys.
McKinnon has crafted a story that celebrates both preservation and renewal, showing how the past and present can work together to create something wonderful. The combination of the stunning coastal setting, unexpected friendships, and the inn's transformation makes this a truly satisfying read.
I loved them all and think you will too.
I'm grateful to have won this giveaway and to receive a free advanced reader copy - thank you again! All thoughts shared here are my own.
Holly returns home to spend the summer running the Cranberry Inn, hoping to prevent her grandmother Francine from selling it to developers. The setting is absolutely enchanting - picture a Victorian mansion from 1853 with rich history, perched dramatically on a cliff overlooking the water.
What unfolds is a heartwarming story where two of the most unlikely characters develop a beautiful friendship that will surprise and delight you. Love blooms in multiple forms throughout the pages. Friends rally together to lovingly transform the inn into something fresh for visitors while carefully restoring its original Victorian beauty.
These relationships are built on genuine love and affection, creating bonds so strong they become like family. The characters feel authentic and endearing - I found myself completely invested in each of their journeys.
McKinnon has crafted a story that celebrates both preservation and renewal, showing how the past and present can work together to create something wonderful. The combination of the stunning coastal setting, unexpected friendships, and the inn's transformation makes this a truly satisfying read.
I loved them all and think you will too.
I'm grateful to have won this giveaway and to receive a free advanced reader copy - thank you again! All thoughts shared here are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to Atria for this ARC through NetGalley!
I enjoyed the summery, coastal New England atmosphere of this book- it will definitely make for a good beach read! I thought the premise overall was cute and I connected with the main character, Holly.
However, many of the other characters fell flat for me -- Oliver and Ben in particular felt unlikable and their "redemption arcs" weren't enough for me to come around to liking them after their past behavior. I thought Francine (the grandmother) was mean without enough backstory to justify it, and I kind of also took issue with Greta (the cook) dropping the ball with like... no consequences despite the fairly important role of food in this story? That being said, I thought the manager, Linus, was funny and the neighbor, Ezra, was sweet and sympathetic.
The beginning really pulled me in with the premise and interesting characters, but I think around the middle there's this climax (or so it seems) and then things fall off afterwards. I think with some developmental editing this one could really have hit a home run-- but overall, I had a good time with this one and it was a fast read.
I enjoyed the summery, coastal New England atmosphere of this book- it will definitely make for a good beach read! I thought the premise overall was cute and I connected with the main character, Holly.
However, many of the other characters fell flat for me -- Oliver and Ben in particular felt unlikable and their "redemption arcs" weren't enough for me to come around to liking them after their past behavior. I thought Francine (the grandmother) was mean without enough backstory to justify it, and I kind of also took issue with Greta (the cook) dropping the ball with like... no consequences despite the fairly important role of food in this story? That being said, I thought the manager, Linus, was funny and the neighbor, Ezra, was sweet and sympathetic.
The beginning really pulled me in with the premise and interesting characters, but I think around the middle there's this climax (or so it seems) and then things fall off afterwards. I think with some developmental editing this one could really have hit a home run-- but overall, I had a good time with this one and it was a fast read.
July 27, 2026
I was intrigued by "The Wash-Ashores" summary as posted on the Goodreads website. First of all, I need to state that romance novels are just not the genre that I gravitate to. I find them to be silly, poorly written, flat plots, laughable characters and settings lacking with detailed description. I know that this genre has a faithful following and that I'm probably in the minority. With that being shared, I found "The Wash-Ashores" to be very well written. I was engaged from the first page to the last. The plot was original, the characters were numerous and all were interesting. I loved how the author was able to bring the various characters together. I've never been to this part of the country. However, after reading this gem of a novel, I felt that I have a good idea on what this part of the country is truly like.
Ms. McKinnon has several previously published novels. I look forward to reading them as well.
If you're looking for a nice summer/beach read, you cannot go wrong with this one! Wishing Ms. McKinnon much success with her latest endeavor!
Ms. McKinnon has several previously published novels. I look forward to reading them as well.
If you're looking for a nice summer/beach read, you cannot go wrong with this one! Wishing Ms. McKinnon much success with her latest endeavor!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
Hannah McKinnon's books have become a staple summer read for me since The Summer Club, and The Wash-Ashores was no exception.
I may have found my new favorite fictional summer inn in the Cranberry Inn. My mouth watered at the food, my heart melted over the characters, and the warmth came off the writing in a way that made this such a comfortable, delightful read.
The stakes to save a historic family inn were real, the cast each carried their own personal journey, and despite the chaos, everyone found their way home in the end. I finished this in three sittings and didn't want to leave.
Some chapters meandered and felt slightly repetitive, but it didn't take away from my overall enjoyment.
For fans of The Hotel Nantucket by Elin Hilderbrand and The Wedding Veil by Kristy Woodson Harvey, this one was made for you.
Thank you to Atria, an imprint of Simon & Schuster, for the free copy for review. All opinions are my own.
I may have found my new favorite fictional summer inn in the Cranberry Inn. My mouth watered at the food, my heart melted over the characters, and the warmth came off the writing in a way that made this such a comfortable, delightful read.
The stakes to save a historic family inn were real, the cast each carried their own personal journey, and despite the chaos, everyone found their way home in the end. I finished this in three sittings and didn't want to leave.
Some chapters meandered and felt slightly repetitive, but it didn't take away from my overall enjoyment.
For fans of The Hotel Nantucket by Elin Hilderbrand and The Wedding Veil by Kristy Woodson Harvey, this one was made for you.
Thank you to Atria, an imprint of Simon & Schuster, for the free copy for review. All opinions are my own.
July 11, 2026
Lovely story!
This book can be called a second chance story. But it's not only a second chance romance, it's the second chance for the Cranberry Inn on Cape Cod; grandmother and granddaughter; and a doctor contemplating next steps after his wife's death.
Holly agrees to take over management of the inn from her grandmother in hopes of staving off a purchase offer. Holly has to reinvent the inn, change the marketing, work with her chef to create new menus, explore new revenue streams...all by herself. Sure, she has staff, but success rests on her shoulders. To top things off, Ben, her high school sweetie is back in town as well, working in his own family's business.
I enjoyed the story. The locale is fantastic and the inn sounds magical. I'd love to spend a week there if it was real. Perfect beach read!
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
This book can be called a second chance story. But it's not only a second chance romance, it's the second chance for the Cranberry Inn on Cape Cod; grandmother and granddaughter; and a doctor contemplating next steps after his wife's death.
Holly agrees to take over management of the inn from her grandmother in hopes of staving off a purchase offer. Holly has to reinvent the inn, change the marketing, work with her chef to create new menus, explore new revenue streams...all by herself. Sure, she has staff, but success rests on her shoulders. To top things off, Ben, her high school sweetie is back in town as well, working in his own family's business.
I enjoyed the story. The locale is fantastic and the inn sounds magical. I'd love to spend a week there if it was real. Perfect beach read!
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I enjoyed this return to Cape Cod with Hannah McKinnon, set at the fictional Cranberry Inn. Holly comes home to the Cape to take over the inn from her grandmother who is trying to retire but struggles with completely letting go of the reins. A high-profile wedding is the event Holly is relying on to help pull the inn into the black and establish it as a true travel and event destination. The book is rounded out with a wide cast of secondary characters, my favorite being the widowed neighbor, Ezra. Each character has something they need to overcome, and the story creates a warm sense of community as they all work their issues out separately but together. All in all, The Wash-Ashores is a fitting summer read, perfect for your beach bag.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria/Emily Bestler Books for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley and Atria/Emily Bestler Books for an advanced reader copy in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This is one of those summer beach reads that allows you to escape to Cape Cod and live vicariously through the characters. Holly has inherited the historic Cranberry House Inn from her grandmother. Francine isn't dead but giving Holly a chance to prove that she can run the business and make a profit.
Holy surrounds herself with kind, hardworking employees that she thinks of as family. Not everything goes smoothly as they host their first wedding for a rich, influential social media influencer. It will be all hands on deck to try and pull off a wedding miracle.
I get wrapped up in all the people-Ezra the quirky neighbor next door, Ben the one that Holly thought would be her life partner, Greta the chef with a heart of gold and Bruce the dog. This is a fun summer escape and wish I could visit this quaint place and spend the night and enjoy the food.
Holy surrounds herself with kind, hardworking employees that she thinks of as family. Not everything goes smoothly as they host their first wedding for a rich, influential social media influencer. It will be all hands on deck to try and pull off a wedding miracle.
I get wrapped up in all the people-Ezra the quirky neighbor next door, Ben the one that Holly thought would be her life partner, Greta the chef with a heart of gold and Bruce the dog. This is a fun summer escape and wish I could visit this quaint place and spend the night and enjoy the food.
June 30, 2026
It made me smile. Holly is taking over the Cranberry Inn from her grandmother- she hopes. First she's got to turn around the financials and she's got a plan to do that. Greta, her Swedish chef, is part of that. Ezra, a widower who lives next door, brings his art. And then there's Ben, Holly's childhood BFF who now has an oyster business with his brother. These, and the rest (especially the prickly but sharp Linus) pull together, especially when a wedding party descends and chaos ensues. This is the sort of ensemble summer read that feels like a hug. Some authors do them better than others and McKinnon is one of the best, in part because she takes full advantage of her Chatham setting and, well, her believable characters. It made me wish for one of the scallop sandwiches from the Impudent Oyster. Thanks to Edelweiss for the ARC. I really enjoyed this.
July 4, 2026
Taking it back to Cape Cod for The Wash-Ashores. Thanks to Atria for my copy via NetGalley.
Reading this book had me reminiscing on my trip last Fall. I really enjoyed this book about coming home set at an Inn on Cape Cod. Holly is testing taking over her grandmother's inn, where she had the best childhood memories. Developers are knocking on the door and Holly is determined to make positive changes.
This had found family, second chances and the best setting. I wanted to book a stay at the Cranberry Inn. This had a great cast of secondary characters who worked at the Inn and a second chance romance with Ezra, who was going through something similar coming home.
This had the charm I love in Hannah McKinnon books and the best descriptions of the Cape. Check this out if you're looking for a great beach book on the Cape!
Reading this book had me reminiscing on my trip last Fall. I really enjoyed this book about coming home set at an Inn on Cape Cod. Holly is testing taking over her grandmother's inn, where she had the best childhood memories. Developers are knocking on the door and Holly is determined to make positive changes.
This had found family, second chances and the best setting. I wanted to book a stay at the Cranberry Inn. This had a great cast of secondary characters who worked at the Inn and a second chance romance with Ezra, who was going through something similar coming home.
This had the charm I love in Hannah McKinnon books and the best descriptions of the Cape. Check this out if you're looking for a great beach book on the Cape!
July 26, 2026
There is something about a coastal setting that just immediately grabs my attention and makes me want to pack up and head for the shore! 🌊☀️👙
Holly finds herself with an inherited inn…except it’s not entirely inherited yet as her grandmother Francine is still in the picture, and the Inn is really struggling Holly has so much love for the Inn and is excited about updates and changes…but will it be enough??
Ok, I LOVED the setting and how the author really takes us to Cape Cod but wow, the characters really shine in this book! I was immediately rooting for Holly and then a certain someone from her past shows up and it’s a bit of a shock. 👀
No spoilers here, but I really loved the themes of friendship and love and figuring out what you really want in life. I definitely had some emotional moments thinking back to my childhood. Yes life is never perfect and sometimes it’s a little messy and chaotic.
✨What To Expect:
🩵Women’s Fiction
🏖️Beach Read
🐚Small Town Coastal Vibes
🌊Cape Cod
☀️Summer Read
✌️Second Chance
🏡Cranberry Inn
🦪She Has Some Work To Do
💕Family Legacies
⛱️Found Family
Holly finds herself with an inherited inn…except it’s not entirely inherited yet as her grandmother Francine is still in the picture, and the Inn is really struggling Holly has so much love for the Inn and is excited about updates and changes…but will it be enough??
Ok, I LOVED the setting and how the author really takes us to Cape Cod but wow, the characters really shine in this book! I was immediately rooting for Holly and then a certain someone from her past shows up and it’s a bit of a shock. 👀
No spoilers here, but I really loved the themes of friendship and love and figuring out what you really want in life. I definitely had some emotional moments thinking back to my childhood. Yes life is never perfect and sometimes it’s a little messy and chaotic.
✨What To Expect:
🩵Women’s Fiction
🏖️Beach Read
🐚Small Town Coastal Vibes
🌊Cape Cod
☀️Summer Read
✌️Second Chance
🏡Cranberry Inn
🦪She Has Some Work To Do
💕Family Legacies
⛱️Found Family
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Hannah McKinnon once again brings us to beautiful Cape Cod. This is a poignant and emotional story of hopefullness that is sure to be a top beach read.
Holly returns home to the Cape to save her beloved summer home The Cranberry House Inn. She expects it to be hard work and long hours. But what she doesn't expect is the lasting friendships with the people who are by her side through this venture.
This is a story about family, friendships, past loves and future romance. The beautifully depicted scenes will leave you yearning to visit The Cape. The characters are all well developed and the short chapters make for an easy read. McKinnon always tells a story that lingers long after reading. This is a definite beachbag add.
Thanks to Netgalley and Atria Books for the advanced copy
Holly returns home to the Cape to save her beloved summer home The Cranberry House Inn. She expects it to be hard work and long hours. But what she doesn't expect is the lasting friendships with the people who are by her side through this venture.
This is a story about family, friendships, past loves and future romance. The beautifully depicted scenes will leave you yearning to visit The Cape. The characters are all well developed and the short chapters make for an easy read. McKinnon always tells a story that lingers long after reading. This is a definite beachbag add.
Thanks to Netgalley and Atria Books for the advanced copy
July 6, 2026
4.5/5 stars!!!
I finished this book wishing I could book a stay at the Cranberry Inn!!
Holly has one summer to prove she's ready to carry on her grandmother's legacy before the property is sold.
It's a summer filled with unexpected challenges, and Holly is determined to prove the future of the inn belongs in her hands.
Loved the short chapters! More than anything, I loved the feeling of community. Every returning guest, quirky resident, and found-family connection added another thread to the fabric of the Cranberry Inn, making it feel like a place that had been loved for generations. If the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce ever needs a marketing campaign, I'd simply hand them this book. Toss it in your beach bag...or let it be your vacation if you're staying home. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
I finished this book wishing I could book a stay at the Cranberry Inn!!
Holly has one summer to prove she's ready to carry on her grandmother's legacy before the property is sold.
It's a summer filled with unexpected challenges, and Holly is determined to prove the future of the inn belongs in her hands.
Loved the short chapters! More than anything, I loved the feeling of community. Every returning guest, quirky resident, and found-family connection added another thread to the fabric of the Cranberry Inn, making it feel like a place that had been loved for generations. If the Cape Cod Chamber of Commerce ever needs a marketing campaign, I'd simply hand them this book. Toss it in your beach bag...or let it be your vacation if you're staying home. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This was exactly the kind of summer escape I needed! The Cape Cod setting was absolutely stunning, and I loved the whole premise of Holly trying to prove herself at the Cranberry Inn while her very much alive grandmother basically gives her a “trial run” summer. The tension between them was layered and emotional in a way that made sense. The unfinished business between Holly and Ben is what hooked me. Their history, the awkward run ins, the quiet conversations by the water… all gave me that slow burn and “will they won’t they” feeling I love. It’s an easy and immersive read, perfect if you like small town vibes, family dynamics, and second chance romance with coastal charm!
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
This was a new to me author and I was glad to have the opportunity to read it.
The Wash‑Ashores is a tender coastal novel about legacy, love, and the courage to start over. When Holly inherits her grandmother’s seaside inn, she faces a summer of rebuilding — the inn, her confidence, and the connection she lost with Ben, the boy who never really left her heart. It’s a story steeped in salt air and second chances, where every wave feels like a whisper of what could be.
However, the pacing just didn’t land for me. The opening moved slowly, and I never quite felt that spark pulling me back in once I stepped away.
Thank you to Atria Books and NetGalley for the ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
The wash ashores.
Almost like reading a hallmark story.
Ezra was my favorite character, so much like real life, his part in the story, everything perfectly fits today's scenario.
The book was simply wonderful in every sense.
The cranberry inn, gives you wonderful summers a place to return to time and time again. Simply a wonderful story to read summers to enjoy.The characters made the book feel like home.
I truly enjoyed this book.This author style of writing.
In fact, I just ordered a book by this author I enjoyed this one so much.
Thank you Goodreads for this giveaway.
A truly enjoyed it.
Almost like reading a hallmark story.
Ezra was my favorite character, so much like real life, his part in the story, everything perfectly fits today's scenario.
The book was simply wonderful in every sense.
The cranberry inn, gives you wonderful summers a place to return to time and time again. Simply a wonderful story to read summers to enjoy.The characters made the book feel like home.
I truly enjoyed this book.This author style of writing.
In fact, I just ordered a book by this author I enjoyed this one so much.
Thank you Goodreads for this giveaway.
A truly enjoyed it.
June 30, 2026
This was my first Hannah McKinnon book and I'm totally sold. I love that she's a real writer, one who uses words like cataclysmic and inimitable. She knows how to artfully paint a picture. I've never been to Cape Cod and yet I feel like I was there. Her descriptions of The Cranberry Inn, with its long history, were so beautifully done.
I was cheering for Holly, Greta, Ben, and Oliver and their complicated love stories. I was pulling for the retired neurosurgeon, Ezra, with his artistic talent and sad heart.
This was truly a feel good book, no scares, nothing too worrisome. Wholesome, happy, cozy, and beautiful.
I was cheering for Holly, Greta, Ben, and Oliver and their complicated love stories. I was pulling for the retired neurosurgeon, Ezra, with his artistic talent and sad heart.
This was truly a feel good book, no scares, nothing too worrisome. Wholesome, happy, cozy, and beautiful.
July 7, 2026
Holly returns to her grandmother’s Cranberry Inn for the summer to help run the inn, and prove to her grandmother that she should eventually inherit it. As they host a New York family for a prominent wedding and Holly reunites with an old flame, she hopes to turn things around for the inn and help it thrive.
I loved the Cape Cod setting and charming Cranberry Inn—it’s the perfect coastal backdrop for a summer read! While I adored the setting, the story and characters didn’t quite draw me in as much as I had hoped. Although the book didn’t end up being a standout for me, it’s an easy, breezy summer read good for a day at the beach.
Thank you to Atria Books for my gifted copy!
I loved the Cape Cod setting and charming Cranberry Inn—it’s the perfect coastal backdrop for a summer read! While I adored the setting, the story and characters didn’t quite draw me in as much as I had hoped. Although the book didn’t end up being a standout for me, it’s an easy, breezy summer read good for a day at the beach.
Thank you to Atria Books for my gifted copy!
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