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White Cliff Bay #3
Summer at Rose Island
After a string of disastrous jobs and relationships Darcy Davenport can't wait to escape London and move to the lovely seaside village of White Cliff Bay. As she begins to swim daily in the crystal clear waters, she discovers the charming Rose Island lighthouse. But it's not just the beautiful building that she finds so intriguing. Riley Eddison doesn't want change. Desperate to escape the memories of his tragic past, he lives a life of solitude in the lighthouse. Yet he can't help but notice Darcy. But when his unique home is threatened, both Darcy and Riley are forced to pick sides. Darcy's fallen in love with White Cliff Bay. But is that all she's fallen for?
368 pages, Paperback
First published May 13, 2016
338 people are currently reading
1274 people want to read
About the author
Holly Martin
57 books1,536 followersHolly lives in a little white cottage by the sea. She studied media at university which led to a very glitzy career as a hotel receptionist followed by a even more glamorous two years working in a bank. The moment that one of her colleagues received the much coveted carriage clock for fifteen years’ service was the moment when she knew she had to escape. She quit her job and returned to university to train to be a teacher. Three years later, she emerged wide eyed and terrified that she now had responsibility for the development of thirty young minds. She taught for four years and then escaped the classroom to teach history workshops, dressing up as a Viking one day and an Egyptian High Priestess the next. But the long journeys around the UK and many hours sat on the M25 gave her a lot of time to plan out her stories and she now writes full time, doing what she loves.
Holly has been writing for 8 years. She was shortlisted for the New Talent Award at the Festival of Romance. Her short story won the Sunlounger competition and was published in the Sunlounger anthology. She won the Carina Valentine’s competition at the Festival of Romance with her novel The Guestbook. She was shortlisted for Best Romantic Read, Best eBook and Innovation in Romantic Fiction at the Festival of Romance. She is the bestselling author of 26 books selling over a million books worldwide. Holly's books have been translated into French, German, Italian, Dutch, Bulgarian, Estonian, Turkish and Russian.
Follow her on Twitter @HollyMAuthor
Holly has been writing for 8 years. She was shortlisted for the New Talent Award at the Festival of Romance. Her short story won the Sunlounger competition and was published in the Sunlounger anthology. She won the Carina Valentine’s competition at the Festival of Romance with her novel The Guestbook. She was shortlisted for Best Romantic Read, Best eBook and Innovation in Romantic Fiction at the Festival of Romance. She is the bestselling author of 26 books selling over a million books worldwide. Holly's books have been translated into French, German, Italian, Dutch, Bulgarian, Estonian, Turkish and Russian.
Follow her on Twitter @HollyMAuthor
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 246 reviews
June 27, 2016
Holly Marin is one of those authors I heard a lot about, but haven’t read anything by her. I decided it was about time to finally give her a try so, when I got an opportunity to be a part of her blog tour, I was pretty happy to say the least.
I had a feeling I would enjoy Summer at Rose Island and you know what? I wasn’t wrong at all. I loved this novel.
The story follows Darcy who leaves her life in London behind and moves to Summer Rose Island.
There, she meets number of nice people and makes some beautiful friendships, but there is one guy that seems that just can’t get on the right foot with her: Riley. The fact that he is really good looking doesn’t help at all. But, as each day passes by, the attraction is undeniable.
Summer at Rose Island will compel you, give you a warm feeling and will make you feel good.
I couldn’t help but feel happy all the time while reading this novel.
The atmosphere in the book was astonishing. I could almost feel the wind and smell the sea, that’s how engaged into the story I was. That’s how good Holly Martin’s writing style is.
One of the things I appreciate the most when it comes to my books are the characters.
In this book, characters are what makes this story.
I couldn’t help but fall in love with them. Here, I don’t mean just Darcy and Riley, but all the side characters (especially Libby and George) and maybe it sounds funny, but it felt like, in this novel, I made friends.
There are also some cute scenes that involve dogs so I think doglovers will appreciate that aspect of the story.
With it’s amazing setting, loveable characters and swoon worthy moments, Summer at Rose Island is a perfect summery read.
This is the third book in the series, but it could easily be read as a standalone.
In fact, I read only this book and wasn’t confused at all!
However, I fell in love with this place and it’s people, that I decided to read all the books in the series, as well as other Martin’s work.
I am glad I discovered this author and can’t wait to see what else she has to offer.
I had a feeling I would enjoy Summer at Rose Island and you know what? I wasn’t wrong at all. I loved this novel.
The story follows Darcy who leaves her life in London behind and moves to Summer Rose Island.
There, she meets number of nice people and makes some beautiful friendships, but there is one guy that seems that just can’t get on the right foot with her: Riley. The fact that he is really good looking doesn’t help at all. But, as each day passes by, the attraction is undeniable.
Summer at Rose Island will compel you, give you a warm feeling and will make you feel good.
I couldn’t help but feel happy all the time while reading this novel.
The atmosphere in the book was astonishing. I could almost feel the wind and smell the sea, that’s how engaged into the story I was. That’s how good Holly Martin’s writing style is.
One of the things I appreciate the most when it comes to my books are the characters.
In this book, characters are what makes this story.
I couldn’t help but fall in love with them. Here, I don’t mean just Darcy and Riley, but all the side characters (especially Libby and George) and maybe it sounds funny, but it felt like, in this novel, I made friends.
There are also some cute scenes that involve dogs so I think doglovers will appreciate that aspect of the story.
With it’s amazing setting, loveable characters and swoon worthy moments, Summer at Rose Island is a perfect summery read.
This is the third book in the series, but it could easily be read as a standalone.
In fact, I read only this book and wasn’t confused at all!
However, I fell in love with this place and it’s people, that I decided to read all the books in the series, as well as other Martin’s work.
I am glad I discovered this author and can’t wait to see what else she has to offer.
July 8, 2017
Having recently discovered Holly Martin, I was looking forward to diving into another of her series and Summer at Rose Island was the ideal read to settle into the recent hotter-than-Hawaii-UK-heatwave with. I haven't read the first two books in the White Cliff Bay series, but that wasn't a problem and with quirky characters in a beautiful setting it was an enjoyable trip.
"Being with you is going to get me in a whole heap load of trouble, isn’t it?"
Centralising around saving the islands lighthouse, we have marine biologist, Darcy who has escaped the mainland and her overbearing, thoughtless parents, and Riley; lighthouse keeper, lyricist, American and a bit of a hermit.
"I’m weird too, so we can be weird together."
I'm a bit partial to a reclusive man and Riley is that. He and Darcy have an immediate pull towards one another and as they get to know each other they bring everything from fight to fun, sweet to sexy. I have to admit there were parts that seemed a little on the saccharine side but I still appreciated how they wore their hearts on their sleeves as simmering away is the reality that if the lighthouse isn't saved, Riley loses his home and return to the US beckons.
Once again Holly Martin has created an entire cast of characters who were easy to love and who I plan on spending more time with once we get in to the festive period. George and Libby, and Penny and Henry are already on the kindle waiting for me.
*Stock image
"Being with you is going to get me in a whole heap load of trouble, isn’t it?"
Centralising around saving the islands lighthouse, we have marine biologist, Darcy who has escaped the mainland and her overbearing, thoughtless parents, and Riley; lighthouse keeper, lyricist, American and a bit of a hermit.
"I’m weird too, so we can be weird together."
I'm a bit partial to a reclusive man and Riley is that. He and Darcy have an immediate pull towards one another and as they get to know each other they bring everything from fight to fun, sweet to sexy. I have to admit there were parts that seemed a little on the saccharine side but I still appreciated how they wore their hearts on their sleeves as simmering away is the reality that if the lighthouse isn't saved, Riley loses his home and return to the US beckons.
Once again Holly Martin has created an entire cast of characters who were easy to love and who I plan on spending more time with once we get in to the festive period. George and Libby, and Penny and Henry are already on the kindle waiting for me.
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July 14, 2017
4.5 - "Don't let anyone tell you your dreams aren't good enough..." Stars!
The third book in Holly Martin’s White Cliff Bay series, takes us to Rose Island and the grumpy American guy living in the old lighthouse on it, and I have to say, I think Riley Eddison may be my most favorite Holly Martin Hero thus far!
Add in that his love interest Darcy Davenport is the perfect level of clumsy and quirky and this was a pair whose story I pretty much devoured in one sitting.
Moving from London to White Cliff Bay was the best decision she had ever made…
I won’t lie I started this book with a little trepidation, mainly because I really struggled with the first book from the series, Christmas at Lilac Cottage was a real disappointment for me, in that it just didn't have the happy, easygoing vibe and smooth Martin writing style I have become accustomed to, and I actually decided not to read it’s follow-up because of it, but the old Holly Martin spark was back in spades in this book and it kept me entertained from beginning to end.
"We can be weird together."
I loved Riley and Darcy together, and once again the author pretty much pulled the whole community into the telling of their coming together, the story although pretty predictable in one sense, is made unique by all the quirks and characterisms that Holly is adept at giving her main cast as well as involving some really likeable secondary characters too.
"I’ve done quite a few things recently that I never thought I’d do."
Summer at Rose Island is Holly Martin writing at her best again, the humor and emotion reminded me of my other favorite books by her in The Guestbook & One Hundred Proposals and I am almost tempted to go back and give book two a try now.
My love for this authors work has gradually started to grow again in 2017 and I cannot read more from her in the coming months.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
The third book in Holly Martin’s White Cliff Bay series, takes us to Rose Island and the grumpy American guy living in the old lighthouse on it, and I have to say, I think Riley Eddison may be my most favorite Holly Martin Hero thus far!
Add in that his love interest Darcy Davenport is the perfect level of clumsy and quirky and this was a pair whose story I pretty much devoured in one sitting.
Moving from London to White Cliff Bay was the best decision she had ever made…
I won’t lie I started this book with a little trepidation, mainly because I really struggled with the first book from the series, Christmas at Lilac Cottage was a real disappointment for me, in that it just didn't have the happy, easygoing vibe and smooth Martin writing style I have become accustomed to, and I actually decided not to read it’s follow-up because of it, but the old Holly Martin spark was back in spades in this book and it kept me entertained from beginning to end.
"We can be weird together."
I loved Riley and Darcy together, and once again the author pretty much pulled the whole community into the telling of their coming together, the story although pretty predictable in one sense, is made unique by all the quirks and characterisms that Holly is adept at giving her main cast as well as involving some really likeable secondary characters too.
"I’ve done quite a few things recently that I never thought I’d do."
Summer at Rose Island is Holly Martin writing at her best again, the humor and emotion reminded me of my other favorite books by her in The Guestbook & One Hundred Proposals and I am almost tempted to go back and give book two a try now.
My love for this authors work has gradually started to grow again in 2017 and I cannot read more from her in the coming months.
ARC generously provided via Netgalley, in exchange for the above honest review.
May 31, 2016
Darcy has just moved to White Cliff Bay to get away from her parents, who are not thrilled with the decisions she makes, especially when it comes to work. They always make her feel like what she does is never enough or right. She has liked White Cliff Bay, since she visited it in her childhood and moving there to have a new start sounds wonderful. Darcy has always loved sea and as she is enjoying her swim she happens to meet the lighthouse keeper Riley, who is a reclusive American, who doesn't seem happy that Riley has swam so close to his property. It takes them a few encounters, before they can eventually understand each other and work for the same purpose-to save the lighthouse from demolition. Riley got to know the locals quite easily, especially because everyone knew her aunt. Riley liked to keep to himself because of his past, but Darcy helps him to see that there's still good in people.Darcy, Riley and all the locals are trying to save the lighthouse, can they make it happen?
I have only good words, I thoroughly enjoyed the whole book. It was great to meet the characters from the previous books, even though I haven't read the second book, I was aware about the main characters. I really liked the characters, they all stuck together and the setting was just perfect-the summery small town with a magnificent lighthouse. I hope there will be another book in the series. because I can't wait to be back to White Cliff Bay.
I have only good words, I thoroughly enjoyed the whole book. It was great to meet the characters from the previous books, even though I haven't read the second book, I was aware about the main characters. I really liked the characters, they all stuck together and the setting was just perfect-the summery small town with a magnificent lighthouse. I hope there will be another book in the series. because I can't wait to be back to White Cliff Bay.
May 25, 2016
Whilst I quite enjoyed this read, I found I didn’t like it as much as I normally enjoy a Holly Martin read. We are back in White Cliff Bay to get to know two more members of the community. Darcy has just moved to town into Libby’s old flat to start a new job with the local council, despite being a qualified marine biologist. Riley is living in a converted lighthouse that has been in his family for generations, but now his home is at risk. It is a pleasant read, cosily predictable. We know what to expect and are not disappointed in that way. There are the usual ups and downs, misunderstandings and make ups. The characters are lovely to read about, people who you would like if you met them.
The main problem I had with the read was the dialogue, particularly between Riley and Darcy which at times was so cheesy it made me cringe and at others seemed to verge on info dumping. Having said that, it is not a bad read and is a very pleasant way to wile away the hours. I received a review copy from the publisher via Netgalley.
The main problem I had with the read was the dialogue, particularly between Riley and Darcy which at times was so cheesy it made me cringe and at others seemed to verge on info dumping. Having said that, it is not a bad read and is a very pleasant way to wile away the hours. I received a review copy from the publisher via Netgalley.
July 5, 2016
This is another of those stories where my advice is don't read what I've written, just get yourself a copy of this delightful novel! It is the third novel set in White Cliff Bay - the earlier two are Christmas at Lilac Cottage and Snowflakes on Silver Cove - and I have loved escaping into all three of them. In this story, Darcy Davenport has returned to live in the seaside resort she used to visit as a child. She has happy memories of visiting and staying with her Aunt, an artist and the person who encouraged her to follow her dreams. This is in complete contrast to her domineering parents for whom Darcy can do nothing right. They are overbearing and critical of every aspect of her life, blaming her whenever anything goes wrong in her life.
She's found herself a job and moved to White Cliff Bay area in an effort to escape their condemnation and to return to somewhere she has very happy memories of staying. The story concerns her integration into this delightful community, her part in the battle to save the Rose Island Lighthouse building and her interactions with the person who owned the lighthouse before it was compulsorily purchased by the council, Riley Eddison. He's escaping turmoil of his own and craves the solitude of his ancestoral family home, the lighthouse, and certainly didn't anticipate the council compulsory purchase order taking it from him with the intention of demolishing it. Nor has he anticipated the mermaid swimming to his shore and stealing his heart! Add in the mystery subject of one of her Aunt's paintings, superb marine life and her new job and you just know you've a great read in store! You'll also discover the significance of the ammonites in the story, too!
There are some highly talented authors who make people and places so believable you really wish you could go to live in their created community - and Holly Martin and her White Cliff Bay is one such community. Her emotive writing paints vivid images in the reader's mind, bringing to life their characters, locations and scenarios. It feels like you could walk down to the Harbour, greeting the familiar characters as you pass them... The battle to save the focal point of the community, the angst and turmoil experienced by Darcy as she settles in to the community and her new job make enthralling reading.
The development of the romance is well paced and believable though the obstacles in their path seem insurmountable at times. Whilst it is the third novel in the series, it can be read and enjoyed as a stand alone, too. I could imagine enjoying reading this on the beach - but I actually thoroughly enjoyed reading it whilst relaxing in my garden at home, I believe it is the rare kind of novel that you'll just enjoy wherever you read it. Go on, give yourself a treat and escape to enjoy Summer at Rose Island!
Many thanks to the author, publisher and Star Crossed Tours for providing the additional materials for this post and an ARC of the novel in exchange for this, my honest review.
She's found herself a job and moved to White Cliff Bay area in an effort to escape their condemnation and to return to somewhere she has very happy memories of staying. The story concerns her integration into this delightful community, her part in the battle to save the Rose Island Lighthouse building and her interactions with the person who owned the lighthouse before it was compulsorily purchased by the council, Riley Eddison. He's escaping turmoil of his own and craves the solitude of his ancestoral family home, the lighthouse, and certainly didn't anticipate the council compulsory purchase order taking it from him with the intention of demolishing it. Nor has he anticipated the mermaid swimming to his shore and stealing his heart! Add in the mystery subject of one of her Aunt's paintings, superb marine life and her new job and you just know you've a great read in store! You'll also discover the significance of the ammonites in the story, too!
There are some highly talented authors who make people and places so believable you really wish you could go to live in their created community - and Holly Martin and her White Cliff Bay is one such community. Her emotive writing paints vivid images in the reader's mind, bringing to life their characters, locations and scenarios. It feels like you could walk down to the Harbour, greeting the familiar characters as you pass them... The battle to save the focal point of the community, the angst and turmoil experienced by Darcy as she settles in to the community and her new job make enthralling reading.
The development of the romance is well paced and believable though the obstacles in their path seem insurmountable at times. Whilst it is the third novel in the series, it can be read and enjoyed as a stand alone, too. I could imagine enjoying reading this on the beach - but I actually thoroughly enjoyed reading it whilst relaxing in my garden at home, I believe it is the rare kind of novel that you'll just enjoy wherever you read it. Go on, give yourself a treat and escape to enjoy Summer at Rose Island!
Many thanks to the author, publisher and Star Crossed Tours for providing the additional materials for this post and an ARC of the novel in exchange for this, my honest review.
May 13, 2016
I adored this book. Set by the sea , I could hear the crashing waves as I read and picture the lighthouse shining around Whitecliff Bay on warm summer evenings. This would be the perfect book to read on the beach so make sure to pack it in your holiday bag.
The characters were wonderful and some of those featuring in previous books were mentioned making you feel like you’d returned to close friends. This book can be read as a standalone- but you’d be missing a real treat if you didn’t buy the other books to enjoy.
Darcy used to be a marine biologist and loves sharks. She meets Riley who lives in the lighthouse and is struck by his sheer gorgeousness! They have a bit of a rocky start- but are instantly drawn to each other. It’s lovely to read about their romance and the beauty of the lighthouse with it’s basement having such a romantic view under the sea, with the Little Mermaid songs ringing in your ears. Riley writes pop songs and I loved the scene where he played Darcy the song he’d written for her. Wouldn’t that make you melt inside?
Darcy is a bit accident prone and some of her ‘moments’ really made me smile. I’m a bit clumsy myself and can just imagine myself doing similar things.
They are trying to save the lighthouse from demolition and the entire village are onboard trying to save this piece of their local history. I’ve always loved lighthouses and we have several lighthouse themed items around our house! So this aspect of the book was very magical.
With many thanks to Bookoutre for another wonderful book and NetGalley for providing a book in exchange for an honest review.
The characters were wonderful and some of those featuring in previous books were mentioned making you feel like you’d returned to close friends. This book can be read as a standalone- but you’d be missing a real treat if you didn’t buy the other books to enjoy.
Darcy used to be a marine biologist and loves sharks. She meets Riley who lives in the lighthouse and is struck by his sheer gorgeousness! They have a bit of a rocky start- but are instantly drawn to each other. It’s lovely to read about their romance and the beauty of the lighthouse with it’s basement having such a romantic view under the sea, with the Little Mermaid songs ringing in your ears. Riley writes pop songs and I loved the scene where he played Darcy the song he’d written for her. Wouldn’t that make you melt inside?
Darcy is a bit accident prone and some of her ‘moments’ really made me smile. I’m a bit clumsy myself and can just imagine myself doing similar things.
They are trying to save the lighthouse from demolition and the entire village are onboard trying to save this piece of their local history. I’ve always loved lighthouses and we have several lighthouse themed items around our house! So this aspect of the book was very magical.
With many thanks to Bookoutre for another wonderful book and NetGalley for providing a book in exchange for an honest review.
May 16, 2016
***ARC Provided by the Publisher and NetGalley***
I think I start every book review of books by this publisher with the same words...charming, feel-good, delightful.
Maybe I like British authors...wouldn't be the first time that has occurred to me, and there is a truth there. But what I actually like are well-written, enjoyable, happy books. Those books that you don;t want to see end, and those that you are pretty sure you will read again.
I loved Darcy and Riley. I liked their story. I liked that they were individuals in their stories and allowed to remain individuals as their stories merged. I like how she wasn't perfectly polished, I liked how he wasn't the most charming at the beginning.
I have not read the other 2 books in this series, and it is definitely able to stand on it's own. I get the impression that the people in the book that Darcy and Riley encounter are people who were in the previous books, and it made me want to go meet them and read their stories.
Oh, and there were lighthouses, and there is no way that can go wrong.
I think I start every book review of books by this publisher with the same words...charming, feel-good, delightful.
Maybe I like British authors...wouldn't be the first time that has occurred to me, and there is a truth there. But what I actually like are well-written, enjoyable, happy books. Those books that you don;t want to see end, and those that you are pretty sure you will read again.
I loved Darcy and Riley. I liked their story. I liked that they were individuals in their stories and allowed to remain individuals as their stories merged. I like how she wasn't perfectly polished, I liked how he wasn't the most charming at the beginning.
I have not read the other 2 books in this series, and it is definitely able to stand on it's own. I get the impression that the people in the book that Darcy and Riley encounter are people who were in the previous books, and it made me want to go meet them and read their stories.
Oh, and there were lighthouses, and there is no way that can go wrong.
June 19, 2017
I was so glad to come back to White Cliff Bay,I love the lively atmosphere of this series and it is always a pleasure to read Holly Martin words.
Summer At Rose Island will make you smile and occasionally shade some tears but at the end you'll feel all warm inside.
I've enjoyed Darcy and Riley's journey full of adventures,sexy times,mermaids and sharks.
August 25, 2016
Where I live, we are about to plunge headfirst into winter and the last couple of days have given us a taste of it already. We had two days averaging around 13C with non-stop rain. So despite the fact that summer is a long way off, I don’t mind the slew of northern hemisphere summer flavoured novels that pour out of publishers around this time. It’s a nice way to escape the bleak weather and dream of the warmer months.
I really liked the setting in this book – White Cliff Bay sounds like a really lovely place. Darcy has moved there in order to take up a new job. She doesn’t exactly know what the job is but Darcy has lurched from one career disaster to the next and she’s determined to make this one work. Failure is not an option, because then she’ll once again have to move back in with her permanently disappointed-in-her parents. They see Darcy as a giant joke, an embarrassment and they’re not exactly shy about letting her know about it. Darcy used to visit her aunt in White Cliff Bay during the summer as a child and has fond memories of it. She loves swimming and adores the sea – she’s actually a qualified marine biologist although her new role will not be in that field.
Darcy meets Riley, an American whose family built and own the lighthouse in White Cliff Bay. Things do not get off to a good start – Darcy finds Riley rude and he isn’t happy that she keeps swimming out to his lighthouse, even going so far as to have the police warn her off for trespassing. Darcy attempts to give him a piece of her mind a few times but generally ends up embarrassing herself in front of him in some way or other because apparently, that’s just how she is. Despite the fact that his first few appearances make him seem quite rude, Riley turns out to be a total gentleman and Darcy is incensed when she finds out the local council have slapped some sort of compulsory sale order on the lighthouse and it’s been bought by a company who plan to develop a very large resort type thing. Darcy immediately begins fighting to save it, helping Riley which means they spend quite a bit of time together and discover that their feelings have definitely evolved past initial hostilities.
While I loved the setting, I didn’t love either Darcy or Riley. The clumsy heroine trying to find herself has been done soooo much lately and I found myself cringing during a lot of Darcy’s moments, wondering how she manages to get out of bed each morning if she really is that big of a disaster. Surely it’s not possible to have been fired from 17 jobs before you’re 35? Anyway. I think she had a good heart and her marine biology stuff was interesting but I found the rest of Darcy hard work to slog through. And when she found out what her job was? I know that she didn’t want another failure but it was naive at best to assume that the local people and Riley were going to be okay with her new role. That was pretty ridiculous to be honest. And Darcy and Riley never really felt overly believable to me, things changed for them so quickly and the chemistry wasn’t given long enough to simmer and develop. It felt really rushed and like there were also at the same time, so many setbacks. It felt like they were forever having a misunderstanding and then making up, back and forth, back and forth.
All in all, this one was just okay for me. I didn’t feel the need to DNF it really but at the same time, I didn’t love it either.
I really liked the setting in this book – White Cliff Bay sounds like a really lovely place. Darcy has moved there in order to take up a new job. She doesn’t exactly know what the job is but Darcy has lurched from one career disaster to the next and she’s determined to make this one work. Failure is not an option, because then she’ll once again have to move back in with her permanently disappointed-in-her parents. They see Darcy as a giant joke, an embarrassment and they’re not exactly shy about letting her know about it. Darcy used to visit her aunt in White Cliff Bay during the summer as a child and has fond memories of it. She loves swimming and adores the sea – she’s actually a qualified marine biologist although her new role will not be in that field.
Darcy meets Riley, an American whose family built and own the lighthouse in White Cliff Bay. Things do not get off to a good start – Darcy finds Riley rude and he isn’t happy that she keeps swimming out to his lighthouse, even going so far as to have the police warn her off for trespassing. Darcy attempts to give him a piece of her mind a few times but generally ends up embarrassing herself in front of him in some way or other because apparently, that’s just how she is. Despite the fact that his first few appearances make him seem quite rude, Riley turns out to be a total gentleman and Darcy is incensed when she finds out the local council have slapped some sort of compulsory sale order on the lighthouse and it’s been bought by a company who plan to develop a very large resort type thing. Darcy immediately begins fighting to save it, helping Riley which means they spend quite a bit of time together and discover that their feelings have definitely evolved past initial hostilities.
While I loved the setting, I didn’t love either Darcy or Riley. The clumsy heroine trying to find herself has been done soooo much lately and I found myself cringing during a lot of Darcy’s moments, wondering how she manages to get out of bed each morning if she really is that big of a disaster. Surely it’s not possible to have been fired from 17 jobs before you’re 35? Anyway. I think she had a good heart and her marine biology stuff was interesting but I found the rest of Darcy hard work to slog through. And when she found out what her job was? I know that she didn’t want another failure but it was naive at best to assume that the local people and Riley were going to be okay with her new role. That was pretty ridiculous to be honest. And Darcy and Riley never really felt overly believable to me, things changed for them so quickly and the chemistry wasn’t given long enough to simmer and develop. It felt really rushed and like there were also at the same time, so many setbacks. It felt like they were forever having a misunderstanding and then making up, back and forth, back and forth.
All in all, this one was just okay for me. I didn’t feel the need to DNF it really but at the same time, I didn’t love it either.
June 28, 2016
Review of audio book, Summer at Rose Island: A Perfect Feel-Good Summer Romance: White Cliff Bay, Book 3
Written by: Holly Martin
Narrated by: Emma Newman
Straight away I should tell you that you do not need to read/listen to book one or two to enjoy this charming and heart-warming story.
It starts of in a quaint sea side village with picturesque view‘s that are dominated by an interesting old light house, which our main character Darcy Davenport is inexplicably drawn to.
Darcy a fiery red head woman with a warm heart is a marine biologist and has moved to white cliff bay, her old childhood haunt to make a new start after a string of disappointments. She makes the move in spite of her parent’s reservations but luckily she has the support of her clever and at times comical brother.
Darcy has a dog, I love when stories have dogs, and she meets a rather dashing all American hunk Riley Eddison who also has a dog. The dogs get on at once, and later in the story snuggle together in bed. The same fate is in store for Riley and Darcy but first they have a few trails to overcome, not least of which is saving Riley’s home, Rose light house which has been in his family for generations.
I love all the characters in this story, the nosy but caring villages, the expectant couple Libby and George even the super slutty reporter. All expertly brought to life not only by Holly Martian’s fabulous creative writing but by the superb talent of narrator Emma Newman, who is especially good at doing the sexy American voice.
This is more than a summer read, it is a multi-faceted romance that just happens to happen in summer.
Holly fits so much depth and warmth into an average size book. Her imagination is boundless and I would highly recommend this audio book. 5 stars.
Written by: Holly Martin
Narrated by: Emma Newman
Straight away I should tell you that you do not need to read/listen to book one or two to enjoy this charming and heart-warming story.
It starts of in a quaint sea side village with picturesque view‘s that are dominated by an interesting old light house, which our main character Darcy Davenport is inexplicably drawn to.
Darcy a fiery red head woman with a warm heart is a marine biologist and has moved to white cliff bay, her old childhood haunt to make a new start after a string of disappointments. She makes the move in spite of her parent’s reservations but luckily she has the support of her clever and at times comical brother.
Darcy has a dog, I love when stories have dogs, and she meets a rather dashing all American hunk Riley Eddison who also has a dog. The dogs get on at once, and later in the story snuggle together in bed. The same fate is in store for Riley and Darcy but first they have a few trails to overcome, not least of which is saving Riley’s home, Rose light house which has been in his family for generations.
I love all the characters in this story, the nosy but caring villages, the expectant couple Libby and George even the super slutty reporter. All expertly brought to life not only by Holly Martian’s fabulous creative writing but by the superb talent of narrator Emma Newman, who is especially good at doing the sexy American voice.
This is more than a summer read, it is a multi-faceted romance that just happens to happen in summer.
Holly fits so much depth and warmth into an average size book. Her imagination is boundless and I would highly recommend this audio book. 5 stars.
May 30, 2016
I had so much fun reading this book! It literally put me in my happy place! It is the perfect beach/summer read.
Take one British gal, one American man, add a lighthouse and a town full of quirky characters and you have an amazing book! Holly Martin is one of my new favorite authors. This book is part of a series but having read the first two, I can say that you don't need to read them in order.
I am not a reviewer who will recreate the plot. However, I can assure you that there is laughter, tears, dogs and sea creatures galore in "Summer at Rose Island." I highly recommend this book to those who love fiction!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read and review this book.
Take one British gal, one American man, add a lighthouse and a town full of quirky characters and you have an amazing book! Holly Martin is one of my new favorite authors. This book is part of a series but having read the first two, I can say that you don't need to read them in order.
I am not a reviewer who will recreate the plot. However, I can assure you that there is laughter, tears, dogs and sea creatures galore in "Summer at Rose Island." I highly recommend this book to those who love fiction!
Thank you to NetGalley and Bookouture for the opportunity to read and review this book.
April 30, 2019
Find my review at
https://ricesreliablereviews.home.blog
https://ricesreliablereviews.home.blog
July 9, 2017
I loved Book 1 of the series. I loved Book 2 of the series.. ..... and guess what!! I ADORE book 3 of the White Cliff Bay series! Loved, Loved, Loved it!!
Holly Martin has such a fabulous way of writing that I was hooked from the first couple of pages! She fills her books with characters that you immediately warm to, settings that you want to move to and sprinkles the right amount of humour amongst it all and creates another wonderful reading experience!!
This is the story of Darcy who feels like a failure in whatever she does. Especially to her parents - nothing she ever does seems good enough for them. So when she leaves London to escape the rat race to take up a position in White Cliff Bay for the council, she knows she's letting them down again. But for her it brings back all the wonderful memories she has of the place when she used to spend time with her Aunt there and learning to love Scuba Diving and the sea life which led to her career as a marine biologist.
Riley is an American who is living in the White Cliff Lighthouse, but that looks all set to change soon with the council planning big changes for the area. He keeps himself to himself as to not get involved with the local community, but still has the female population swooning in his prescence! But there's something different about Darcy when he first meets her - and the feeling is mutual!
With the help of the community though a plan is put into place to try and save the Lighthouse and it is always wonderful to read of people power in such a small community.
Another wonderful story from Holly and I am hoping there'll be more from this wonderful setting in the near future as I'm always eager for more!!
Holly Martin has such a fabulous way of writing that I was hooked from the first couple of pages! She fills her books with characters that you immediately warm to, settings that you want to move to and sprinkles the right amount of humour amongst it all and creates another wonderful reading experience!!
This is the story of Darcy who feels like a failure in whatever she does. Especially to her parents - nothing she ever does seems good enough for them. So when she leaves London to escape the rat race to take up a position in White Cliff Bay for the council, she knows she's letting them down again. But for her it brings back all the wonderful memories she has of the place when she used to spend time with her Aunt there and learning to love Scuba Diving and the sea life which led to her career as a marine biologist.
Riley is an American who is living in the White Cliff Lighthouse, but that looks all set to change soon with the council planning big changes for the area. He keeps himself to himself as to not get involved with the local community, but still has the female population swooning in his prescence! But there's something different about Darcy when he first meets her - and the feeling is mutual!
With the help of the community though a plan is put into place to try and save the Lighthouse and it is always wonderful to read of people power in such a small community.
Another wonderful story from Holly and I am hoping there'll be more from this wonderful setting in the near future as I'm always eager for more!!
November 30, 2017
I loved this book. There are no two ways about it. It is fun, it is sweet and it is...oh so romantic. I loved Darcy and Riley. A marine biologist and a lighthouse keeper. Both make a cute pair.
This was my first book by Holly Martin and definitely not my last time. Her main characters are both strong and lovable. Darcy is more easy going and makes friends easily. Riley is a bit of a loner but that makes him damn sexy too.
Holly has written this book with a sweet hand and the banter between Darcy and Riley is just perfect. The settings and locale are described so well, that they come alive, off the pages. A great read.
I wanted a light novel which would take me to a dream world where everything is perfect and love conquers all, and this book does that.
Romance is truly alive in this book and I liked that though Riley and Darcy were different but both had one thing in common –love for each other and their small town.
This was my first book by Holly Martin and definitely not my last time. Her main characters are both strong and lovable. Darcy is more easy going and makes friends easily. Riley is a bit of a loner but that makes him damn sexy too.
Holly has written this book with a sweet hand and the banter between Darcy and Riley is just perfect. The settings and locale are described so well, that they come alive, off the pages. A great read.
I wanted a light novel which would take me to a dream world where everything is perfect and love conquers all, and this book does that.
Romance is truly alive in this book and I liked that though Riley and Darcy were different but both had one thing in common –love for each other and their small town.
November 30, 2017
I loved this book. There are no two ways about it. It is fun, it is sweet and it is...oh so romantic. I loved Darcy and Riley. A marine biologist and a lighthouse keeper. Both make a cute pair.
This was my first book by Holly Martin and definitely not my last time. Her main characters are both strong and lovable. Darcy is more easy going and makes friends easily. Riley is a bit of a loner but that makes him damn sexy too.
Holly has written this book with a sweet hand and the banter between Darcy and Riley is just perfect. The settings and locale are described so well, that they come alive, off the pages. A great read.
I wanted a light novel which would take me to a dream world where everything is perfect and love conquers all, and this book does that.
Romance is truly alive in this book and I liked that though Riley and Darcy were different but both had one thing in common –love for each other and their small town.
This was my first book by Holly Martin and definitely not my last time. Her main characters are both strong and lovable. Darcy is more easy going and makes friends easily. Riley is a bit of a loner but that makes him damn sexy too.
Holly has written this book with a sweet hand and the banter between Darcy and Riley is just perfect. The settings and locale are described so well, that they come alive, off the pages. A great read.
I wanted a light novel which would take me to a dream world where everything is perfect and love conquers all, and this book does that.
Romance is truly alive in this book and I liked that though Riley and Darcy were different but both had one thing in common –love for each other and their small town.
January 12, 2018
What an interesting and heartfelt story, this has been a most beautiful and memorable tale. We have Riley a quiet guy who likes his peace and quiet to meditate on his songwriting, a bit of an introvert I would say but so am I, and we have Darcy a rather bright young lady with a low self-esteem which was derailed by her parents, both had disappointments in the love field now it seems true love had found them when they least expected it. Their way was a rough one, filled with bulletins of undercurrents that could cause drowning and other serious injuries, but a strong and true love could weather any rough seas and with strength and fortitude, they could withstand the perilous journey ahead. Although they had a few bumps and bruises none were life-threatening. The storyline was absolutely beautiful, well written with the perfect characters, I enjoyed this book immensely and to all the romance lovers out there, this is a must-read.
June 8, 2017
I love this series but it's especially good to listen to.
I actually nearly cried for a lighthouse in this story!
Highly recommended for anyone wanting a softer, sweeter romance story with a little bit of drama, a large dose of hope and a good old happy ever after!
We are proud to provide honest and unbiased reviews written from the heart.
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I actually nearly cried for a lighthouse in this story!
Highly recommended for anyone wanting a softer, sweeter romance story with a little bit of drama, a large dose of hope and a good old happy ever after!
We are proud to provide honest and unbiased reviews written from the heart.
Email: jezabellgirlandfriends@gmail.com
Web: http://jezabellgirlandfriends.com
Facebook: http://facebook.com/jezabellgirlandfr...
Twitter: http://twitter.com/Jezabell_girl
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Google+: http://google.com/+JezabellGirl
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July 26, 2017
The paperback cover of this book is absolutely stunning and so summery. It makes you want to escape and go on holiday somewhere warm. I have read one of Holly's books before and after reading this one I will be reading more. This is a perfect read as it made me laugh, there were some interesting facts about sharks and the ending was so beautiful it made me have a tear in my eye. I really felt as though I connected with Holly and Riley reminded me a bit of my own husband. I loved when Darcy was making Riley try British food that was quite funny as he was not sure on some things. I loved this book. I will certainly be recommending it to friends and family.
November 23, 2018
And with this book I finished the White Cliff Bay series, I liked the overall atmosphere of these books, in this book we are experiencing summer in White Cliff and the towns efforts to save the lighthouse from demolishing.. that was the best part, also Libby and George bless their souls were AMAZING :D
Darcy and Riley were nice but not my favorite couple .. they have some chemistry but I thought most of their dialogues were stiff .. but I liked the scene where Riley stands up for her in front of her parents .. it is a nice fluffy read for a lazy day
Darcy and Riley were nice but not my favorite couple .. they have some chemistry but I thought most of their dialogues were stiff .. but I liked the scene where Riley stands up for her in front of her parents .. it is a nice fluffy read for a lazy day
April 19, 2016
Starting a new Holly Martin book is always a bit like getting a huge hug from your best friend, after you haven't seen them for a while. It's comforting, and will always bring a smile to your lips, and you will sink into those arms, or pages of a book, and just know you are home. And that was my instant reaction to the first few pages of Summer at Rose Island.
I should probably touch on something quite important to start with , that yes this is book 3, set in the lovely White Cliff Bay, but all 3 of the books can easily be read as standalones. However Darcy's next door neighbours are Libby and George from Snowflakes on Silver Cover, and even in the regular glimpses we saw of them in this new story, was enough to feel really at home with them, and have a nice update on their lives.
In fact fans of this series will be delighted to see a whole range of familiar faces popping up, and its always pleasurable to see recurring characters in a series.
From the moment I met both Darcy and Riley, I knew these characters would become firm favourites of mine. I loved Darcy's slight geekiness, and wouldn't believe the dysfunctional relationship she has with her parents, if it wasn't a bit too familiar to my own family feelings! Riley is a man who is very easy to fall for, and as he starts to let his guard down, becomes just sexier and sexier.
Summer at Rose Island is a very summery feeling book, as the town of Whitecliff Bay band together to save the lighthouse on Rose Island, that is also Riley's home. Darcy hasn't been in town for long before she gets involved in the campaign and into small town life, although the gossip grapevine does take her a bit of getting used to.
One of the main things that I will take from this book is that lighthouses and their keepers can be very sexy, and that a lighthouse could be a wonderful place to live. I am still puzzling how the grand piano ended up inside though!
There are some wonderful descriptions of sharks in this story. They are not an animal I have ever found myself thinking about a great deal, but one of the first things I have done since finishing the book is googling images of Darcy's favourite breed, Angel sharks, just to see what they really do look like.
Darcy is a real people person, and soon makes friends in this new town of hers, and she is a whirlwind of a personality. She can also be a slight disaster zone, especially clumsiness, and some of the situations she gets into are hilarious.
Summer at Rose Island is a fabulously sweet and cosy romance, that has plenty of funny moments, and a great sense of small town belonging to it. I feel as though its a fantastic way to start reading summery books for the hopefully upcoming better weather!
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
I should probably touch on something quite important to start with , that yes this is book 3, set in the lovely White Cliff Bay, but all 3 of the books can easily be read as standalones. However Darcy's next door neighbours are Libby and George from Snowflakes on Silver Cover, and even in the regular glimpses we saw of them in this new story, was enough to feel really at home with them, and have a nice update on their lives.
In fact fans of this series will be delighted to see a whole range of familiar faces popping up, and its always pleasurable to see recurring characters in a series.
From the moment I met both Darcy and Riley, I knew these characters would become firm favourites of mine. I loved Darcy's slight geekiness, and wouldn't believe the dysfunctional relationship she has with her parents, if it wasn't a bit too familiar to my own family feelings! Riley is a man who is very easy to fall for, and as he starts to let his guard down, becomes just sexier and sexier.
Summer at Rose Island is a very summery feeling book, as the town of Whitecliff Bay band together to save the lighthouse on Rose Island, that is also Riley's home. Darcy hasn't been in town for long before she gets involved in the campaign and into small town life, although the gossip grapevine does take her a bit of getting used to.
One of the main things that I will take from this book is that lighthouses and their keepers can be very sexy, and that a lighthouse could be a wonderful place to live. I am still puzzling how the grand piano ended up inside though!
There are some wonderful descriptions of sharks in this story. They are not an animal I have ever found myself thinking about a great deal, but one of the first things I have done since finishing the book is googling images of Darcy's favourite breed, Angel sharks, just to see what they really do look like.
Darcy is a real people person, and soon makes friends in this new town of hers, and she is a whirlwind of a personality. She can also be a slight disaster zone, especially clumsiness, and some of the situations she gets into are hilarious.
Summer at Rose Island is a fabulously sweet and cosy romance, that has plenty of funny moments, and a great sense of small town belonging to it. I feel as though its a fantastic way to start reading summery books for the hopefully upcoming better weather!
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for this review copy. This was my honest opinion.
June 1, 2016
You guys, Holly Martin is one of the best romance writes you will ever meet. I have just finished her brand new novel Summer At Rose Island and it is just the cutest book I've ever read. I'm still swooning over here, and I'm making plans to move to White Cliff Bay and INHABIT A LIFEHOUSE. Because AWESOME. Living in a lighthouse is now my life mission, thank you Holly! This book literally gave me all the feels, and I just enjoyed it so, so much!
What I like with Holly Martin's books is that you rarely get pointless drama - as is the case with Darcy and Riley. Sure, right off the bat, they rile each other up something chronic, but once they establish they don't hate each other, all goes rather swimmingly well. They just seemed to click immediately, helped by the fact that Darcy is so passionate about everything - sharks, her dog, saving the lighthouse, so there's no reason for either to be wary or get stuck in the pointless drama. Darcy likes Riley, Riley likes Darcy, HAPPY EVER AFTER. Well, not quite, and I knew EXACTLY what was going to happen in Darcy's new job before she did, but for the most part the whole Darcy/Riley thing was smooth-sailing and that's a beautiful thing, because there doesn't have to be drama and break-ups, relationships can actually be normal.
I loved the setting of White Cliff Bay, and it's actually my first visit, although I do now need to go back and read the other two books, not only because of more White Cliff Bay, but to know more about Penny and Libby, who both seem like such awesome characters that I absolutely must get to know ASAP. White Cliff Bay just sounds like the most perfect town, where everyone knows everyone, and when someone's in trouble, everyone will race to help, sure it has the downside that EVERYONE KNOWS EVERYTHING, but it can't all be amazing, and at least if everyone knows everything, there's no secrets.
I really, really enjoyed Summer at Rose Island. I want to move to Rose Island and live in a lighthouse really, really badly. I would go TOMORROW if it was a real place, and I could live in the lighthouse. I loved Darcy and Riley, they were so cute, and I absolutely loved Darcy trying to Anglicize Riley, although for the love of all things bread, it is NOT a crisp butty. It's a crisp sandwich, and yes, that's an important distinction. And yes, they are the greatest sandwiches ON THE PLANET. I am literally slavering for one right now. This book is amazing, and Holly Martin has quickly become one of my favourite Chick Lit authors, I just need to try and keep up with her books better! XD
What I like with Holly Martin's books is that you rarely get pointless drama - as is the case with Darcy and Riley. Sure, right off the bat, they rile each other up something chronic, but once they establish they don't hate each other, all goes rather swimmingly well. They just seemed to click immediately, helped by the fact that Darcy is so passionate about everything - sharks, her dog, saving the lighthouse, so there's no reason for either to be wary or get stuck in the pointless drama. Darcy likes Riley, Riley likes Darcy, HAPPY EVER AFTER. Well, not quite, and I knew EXACTLY what was going to happen in Darcy's new job before she did, but for the most part the whole Darcy/Riley thing was smooth-sailing and that's a beautiful thing, because there doesn't have to be drama and break-ups, relationships can actually be normal.
I loved the setting of White Cliff Bay, and it's actually my first visit, although I do now need to go back and read the other two books, not only because of more White Cliff Bay, but to know more about Penny and Libby, who both seem like such awesome characters that I absolutely must get to know ASAP. White Cliff Bay just sounds like the most perfect town, where everyone knows everyone, and when someone's in trouble, everyone will race to help, sure it has the downside that EVERYONE KNOWS EVERYTHING, but it can't all be amazing, and at least if everyone knows everything, there's no secrets.
I really, really enjoyed Summer at Rose Island. I want to move to Rose Island and live in a lighthouse really, really badly. I would go TOMORROW if it was a real place, and I could live in the lighthouse. I loved Darcy and Riley, they were so cute, and I absolutely loved Darcy trying to Anglicize Riley, although for the love of all things bread, it is NOT a crisp butty. It's a crisp sandwich, and yes, that's an important distinction. And yes, they are the greatest sandwiches ON THE PLANET. I am literally slavering for one right now. This book is amazing, and Holly Martin has quickly become one of my favourite Chick Lit authors, I just need to try and keep up with her books better! XD
May 13, 2016
Holly Martin has done it again with Summer at Rose Island, the latest installment in her White Cliff Bay Series. And by done it again, I mean she has delivered a delicious romance that had me laughing, swooning, and cheering for the couple to be together and get their happily ever after.
In Summer at Rose Island we meet Darcy Davenport, a vibrant woman with a love for the sea who relocated to White Cliff Bay for a new job. She's engaging, funny, and a character I immediately connected with right from the start. After feeling as though she continually messes everything up, she's bound and determined to prove to her judgmental parents that this time she will be a success at her job as community liaison for the local council.
An avid swimmer with a passion for marine biology, Darcy finds herself drawn to the old lighthouse at Rose Island. But when she swims out there she gets more than she bargained for when she meets Riley Eddison, the reclusive American songrwiter who lives there.
And oh, do those delicious sparks fly between Darcy and Riley! Riley has escaped to Rose Island from a tragedy in his past, and he's determined to never be involved in the life of a town again after what happened to him back in Texas. Of course, we know better. These two are destined to fall in love and help each other grow as individuals. But can they stay together when Darcy's job might involve destroying the one thing Riley holds dear to his heart?
Summer at Rose Island has it all. A sexy hero with a swoony Southern charm, a bubbly, intelligent heroine, reappearance of old friends from the first books in White Cliff Bay, lots of laughs and a beautiful romance. One click this for your summer reading list. You won't regret it.
In Summer at Rose Island we meet Darcy Davenport, a vibrant woman with a love for the sea who relocated to White Cliff Bay for a new job. She's engaging, funny, and a character I immediately connected with right from the start. After feeling as though she continually messes everything up, she's bound and determined to prove to her judgmental parents that this time she will be a success at her job as community liaison for the local council.
An avid swimmer with a passion for marine biology, Darcy finds herself drawn to the old lighthouse at Rose Island. But when she swims out there she gets more than she bargained for when she meets Riley Eddison, the reclusive American songrwiter who lives there.
And oh, do those delicious sparks fly between Darcy and Riley! Riley has escaped to Rose Island from a tragedy in his past, and he's determined to never be involved in the life of a town again after what happened to him back in Texas. Of course, we know better. These two are destined to fall in love and help each other grow as individuals. But can they stay together when Darcy's job might involve destroying the one thing Riley holds dear to his heart?
Summer at Rose Island has it all. A sexy hero with a swoony Southern charm, a bubbly, intelligent heroine, reappearance of old friends from the first books in White Cliff Bay, lots of laughs and a beautiful romance. One click this for your summer reading list. You won't regret it.
December 24, 2016
I have been dying to get my hands on the latest Holly Martin book and would like to say a huge thankyou to Bookouture and Netgalley, for giving me the opportunity to read this in exchange for an honest review which I am more then happy to give!
Summer at Rose Island was perfect. From the cover of the book, to the characters and the story that unfolds.
I am in love with the two main Characters of this book Darcy and Riley and the relationship that unfolds between them. I just couldn't get enough.
Holly Martin always does such a perfect job of making your fall in love with her Characters. They are always honest, real and down right adorable.
I just loved everything about this book! It was funny, warm and witty.
I found the plot very interesting and loved the marine biology references throughout the book.
I was hooked from the very beginning and devoured this book in one sitting.
I highly recommend Summer at Rose Island by Holly Martin it is without a doubt the perfect Chic Lit read.
Summer at Rose Island was perfect. From the cover of the book, to the characters and the story that unfolds.
I am in love with the two main Characters of this book Darcy and Riley and the relationship that unfolds between them. I just couldn't get enough.
Holly Martin always does such a perfect job of making your fall in love with her Characters. They are always honest, real and down right adorable.
I just loved everything about this book! It was funny, warm and witty.
I found the plot very interesting and loved the marine biology references throughout the book.
I was hooked from the very beginning and devoured this book in one sitting.
I highly recommend Summer at Rose Island by Holly Martin it is without a doubt the perfect Chic Lit read.
May 12, 2016
Thank you to Netgalley and Bookouture for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
I already loved the little town of White Cliff Bay in one of the Christmas books and I came to love it during the summer as well. Holly Martin created such a little wonderful world which makes me want to live in it. The town has such a cosy atmosphere and so many wonderful people.
I enjoyed the story about saving the lighthouse a lot. The story and the setting was very special and I felt very at home here.
The characters were so great too. I loved how well Darcy and Riley were working together. The chemistry and love between them was amazing. I also had lots of fun with the two, Dary teaching him the British culture was just hilarious. I loved how attentive Riley was and he had such an romantic side which brought hearts and tears to my eyes.
I absolutely can't wait for Christmas time so I can go back to White Cliff Bay and I really hope there will be more books about this wonderful village.
I already loved the little town of White Cliff Bay in one of the Christmas books and I came to love it during the summer as well. Holly Martin created such a little wonderful world which makes me want to live in it. The town has such a cosy atmosphere and so many wonderful people.
I enjoyed the story about saving the lighthouse a lot. The story and the setting was very special and I felt very at home here.
The characters were so great too. I loved how well Darcy and Riley were working together. The chemistry and love between them was amazing. I also had lots of fun with the two, Dary teaching him the British culture was just hilarious. I loved how attentive Riley was and he had such an romantic side which brought hearts and tears to my eyes.
I absolutely can't wait for Christmas time so I can go back to White Cliff Bay and I really hope there will be more books about this wonderful village.
June 14, 2017
This is the 3rd book in the White Cliff Bay trilogy, but you do not have to have read the first two to enjoy this one. I haven't read them but will go back and read them now. In this story, Darcy Davenport has returned to live in the seaside resort town she used to visit as a child. She loved visiting her aunt, who was an artist, and was happiest in the water. Darcy's parents are overbearing, stifling, dream killing and extremely critical of everything she does, whereas her aunt was the complete opposite. When Darcy was fired from her dream job as a Marine Biologist, her parents blamed her and her self-worth and confidence plummeted. She tried various jobs, but nothing worked. When she found herself a job in the White Cliff Bay area she took it in an effort to escape her parents and return to a place where she was happy. Darcy loves people and wears her heart on her sleeve. She wants to be liked and welcomed in the community and just being herself makes that happen quickly.
One thing she remembers is the importance of the Lighthouse in all her Aunt's paintings. When she finds our that it is going to be torn down, she joins with the residents to save the Rose Island Lighthouse tower. The owner and builder was the Eddison family and Riley Eddison, an American has renovated the living space and is now living in it. Riley is running from problems he encountered in his small hometown in Texas. He craves the solitude of his ancestral family home, the lighthouse, and certainly didn't anticipate the council compulsory purchase order taking it from him with the intention of demolishing it. Notices had been sent about this issue, but as no one was living in it at the time, there was no response and now it is too late. And then there was the red-haired mermaid that swam to his rocks and captured his heart, much to his chagrin. What is he to do.
I love Holly Martin's writing, it is so descriptive. She pulls you right into the lives of the characters and the little town. I would love to visit there and meet these people. They are friendly, lovable, and real. I love how quickly news travels from one end of the town to the other, arriving before the person walking. The battle to save the Lighthouse was well written. Anyone who has joined a campaign to save something would feel the turmoil and anger of the residents as someone from outside their community comes along to make decisions.
I really enjoyed the development of Darcy and Riley's relationship. Yes, it was love at first sight, but it was not acted upon. They had to get through some baggage, push aside some of their barriers and decide if their burgeoning love was enough to surmount the obstacles in their path. There were some unexpected twists in the story that I enjoyed and helped to show that relationships can survive if you are willing to fight for them. A thoroughly enjoyable romance. If you have not read this one, then it is a perfect summer read for any romance lover out there. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
One thing she remembers is the importance of the Lighthouse in all her Aunt's paintings. When she finds our that it is going to be torn down, she joins with the residents to save the Rose Island Lighthouse tower. The owner and builder was the Eddison family and Riley Eddison, an American has renovated the living space and is now living in it. Riley is running from problems he encountered in his small hometown in Texas. He craves the solitude of his ancestral family home, the lighthouse, and certainly didn't anticipate the council compulsory purchase order taking it from him with the intention of demolishing it. Notices had been sent about this issue, but as no one was living in it at the time, there was no response and now it is too late. And then there was the red-haired mermaid that swam to his rocks and captured his heart, much to his chagrin. What is he to do.
I love Holly Martin's writing, it is so descriptive. She pulls you right into the lives of the characters and the little town. I would love to visit there and meet these people. They are friendly, lovable, and real. I love how quickly news travels from one end of the town to the other, arriving before the person walking. The battle to save the Lighthouse was well written. Anyone who has joined a campaign to save something would feel the turmoil and anger of the residents as someone from outside their community comes along to make decisions.
I really enjoyed the development of Darcy and Riley's relationship. Yes, it was love at first sight, but it was not acted upon. They had to get through some baggage, push aside some of their barriers and decide if their burgeoning love was enough to surmount the obstacles in their path. There were some unexpected twists in the story that I enjoyed and helped to show that relationships can survive if you are willing to fight for them. A thoroughly enjoyable romance. If you have not read this one, then it is a perfect summer read for any romance lover out there. The publisher generously provided me with a copy of this book via Netgalley.
July 12, 2017
I absolutely loved this book. Once I started reading it I couldn't put it down.
Darcy Davenport moves to White Cliff Bay, a place she has loved since she was a child, to start a new life and a new job which she basically knows nothing about. Not only does she have a new job but she met the handsome Riley Eddison. Their relationship starts off as rocky, gets better and gets rocky again.
There are also a few twists and turns regarding the Lighthouse which happens to be Riley's family home.
Holly Martin is a new author to me and this is the first of her books that I have read but I promise it won't be the last one. I loved all the characters and I will be reading the first two books in this series.
If you like a book that makes you feel good then I highly recommend Summer at Rose Island.
I want to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this book prior to publication in exchange for an honest review.
Darcy Davenport moves to White Cliff Bay, a place she has loved since she was a child, to start a new life and a new job which she basically knows nothing about. Not only does she have a new job but she met the handsome Riley Eddison. Their relationship starts off as rocky, gets better and gets rocky again.
There are also a few twists and turns regarding the Lighthouse which happens to be Riley's family home.
Holly Martin is a new author to me and this is the first of her books that I have read but I promise it won't be the last one. I loved all the characters and I will be reading the first two books in this series.
If you like a book that makes you feel good then I highly recommend Summer at Rose Island.
I want to thank NetGalley, the publisher and the author for allowing me to read this book prior to publication in exchange for an honest review.
September 18, 2017
*Thank you to the publisher, Bookouture, and NetGalley for the copy of this title in exchange for an honest review.
I didn’t enjoy it as much as I hope I would. I struggled to get into the story even though I love the setting, Rose Island sounds like a wonderful place. I also didn’t buy the fast development of the romance between Darcy and Riley. I wasn’t swept away by their romance, not until the last part, that is. I feel like it was forced and wasn’t given enough time to blossom into something more realistic. The dialogues between them are too cheezy at times. One thing I really like is how the big part of the storyline is focused on the lighthouse. Also, all the talk about sharks and sea life are truly fascinating. I particularly love the last part where the sharks played a really important role in saving the lighthouse. And so, overall, I still think it is a fun read despite the struggle.
I didn’t enjoy it as much as I hope I would. I struggled to get into the story even though I love the setting, Rose Island sounds like a wonderful place. I also didn’t buy the fast development of the romance between Darcy and Riley. I wasn’t swept away by their romance, not until the last part, that is. I feel like it was forced and wasn’t given enough time to blossom into something more realistic. The dialogues between them are too cheezy at times. One thing I really like is how the big part of the storyline is focused on the lighthouse. Also, all the talk about sharks and sea life are truly fascinating. I particularly love the last part where the sharks played a really important role in saving the lighthouse. And so, overall, I still think it is a fun read despite the struggle.
July 9, 2017
Reading Darcy and Riley's story was like taking a summer vacation to the lovely seaside town of White Cliff Bay. I loved how the friendly people of the community were all mixed up in each others' lives. The author writes in a descriptive way that made it easy for me to imagine the people and places. She gave just enough foreshadowing that I suspected someone was bound to be less than thrilled with Darcy's involvement in the movement to save the lighthouse.
If you are looking for a fun and light summer read with a quaint English seaside village vibe, I recommend you give Summer at Rose Island a try.
I voluntarily read an advanced review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley. I offer my opinion in response.
If you are looking for a fun and light summer read with a quaint English seaside village vibe, I recommend you give Summer at Rose Island a try.
I voluntarily read an advanced review copy provided by the publisher via Netgalley. I offer my opinion in response.
April 28, 2022
I received this as an arc from net galley in exchange for an honest review.
Fall in love with the gorgeous seaside town of white cliff bay this summer and enjoy long summer days, beautiful beaches and. ........
A little romance.
Wow. OMG. Wow.
Absolutely fantastic read.
I loved the story and the characters.
DArcy was lovely.
She was my favourite character.
Wasn't sure on Riley.
Lovely refreshing feel good read.
I loved the ending too.
I love Holly Martin books.
This is a must read and I would highly recommend this book.
Definitely worth more than 5 *.
Fall in love with the gorgeous seaside town of white cliff bay this summer and enjoy long summer days, beautiful beaches and. ........
A little romance.
Wow. OMG. Wow.
Absolutely fantastic read.
I loved the story and the characters.
DArcy was lovely.
She was my favourite character.
Wasn't sure on Riley.
Lovely refreshing feel good read.
I loved the ending too.
I love Holly Martin books.
This is a must read and I would highly recommend this book.
Definitely worth more than 5 *.
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