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When We Were Sisters
Two sisters who haven’t spoken for twenty years. One summer to bring a family back together.
Jayne Winters hasn’t seen her sister Charlotte since that last childhood holiday at their grandmother’s North Carolina beach house. Separated after that summer by their parents in a bitter divorce, Charlotte has never forgiven Jayne for not fighting to stay together.
So when Jayne discovers that they have both inherited the beach house, and that their grandmother’s last wish was for them to renovate it together, it feels like a miracle: one last chance to win her sister back.
At first Charlotte will barely speak to her. But slowly the memories of swimming races and storytelling in their attic bedroom looking over the sea start to break down the wall between them. With the help of photographs and letters left by their grandmother for them to find, the two women begin to restore not just the creaking mahogany staircase and the faded antique wallpaper, but their own relationship.
But then Jayne discovers that Charlotte has kept a heart-stopping secret from their past from her. Can she find it in her heart to forgive her sister and keep their grandmother’s dream of reuniting them alive—or are some wounds too big to heal?
An emotional and uplifting read about sisters, secrets and the family bonds that hold us together no matter how complicated they are, from the bestselling author of The Lighthouse Keeper. Fans of Mary Ellen Taylor, Elin Hilderbrand and Mary Alice Monroe will love this.
Jayne Winters hasn’t seen her sister Charlotte since that last childhood holiday at their grandmother’s North Carolina beach house. Separated after that summer by their parents in a bitter divorce, Charlotte has never forgiven Jayne for not fighting to stay together.
So when Jayne discovers that they have both inherited the beach house, and that their grandmother’s last wish was for them to renovate it together, it feels like a miracle: one last chance to win her sister back.
At first Charlotte will barely speak to her. But slowly the memories of swimming races and storytelling in their attic bedroom looking over the sea start to break down the wall between them. With the help of photographs and letters left by their grandmother for them to find, the two women begin to restore not just the creaking mahogany staircase and the faded antique wallpaper, but their own relationship.
But then Jayne discovers that Charlotte has kept a heart-stopping secret from their past from her. Can she find it in her heart to forgive her sister and keep their grandmother’s dream of reuniting them alive—or are some wounds too big to heal?
An emotional and uplifting read about sisters, secrets and the family bonds that hold us together no matter how complicated they are, from the bestselling author of The Lighthouse Keeper. Fans of Mary Ellen Taylor, Elin Hilderbrand and Mary Alice Monroe will love this.
281 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 11, 2021
357 people are currently reading
766 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 105 reviews
July 9, 2021
As always, I'm a little biased.
July 23, 2021
See my review on my blog here https://veganbookblogger.wordpress.co...
I just love Summer beach reads. Who can resist a book that is so full of emotion such as this one?
Adult sisters Jayne and Charlotte have been estranged for quite some time but must come together for the reading of their grandmother's will.
Jayne is the older sister and when they were children she would have done anything to protect Charlotte.
This book was fabulous right from thee start and I found it very hard to put down and it became a very quick read for me.
When they were children the children had to be separated it was beyond their control but younger sister Charlotte blames older sister Jayne for not being able to keep them together and has become a bitter adult for it.
Each carries a special memory with them of their last Summer at their grandparents beach house and the wonderful time they had together.
These days the sisters have nothing to do with each other though one of them has put a lot of effort into trying to change this.
A stipulation of the will says the sisters must live together in their grandparents beach house for 6 months while fixing it up n the order the grandmother specifies.
While there a lot of emotions play out including misunderstanding,grief,hurt,betrayal,love,peace,acceptance and more.
Will their grandmother, through her will be able to bring the sisters peace and harmony again in their lives?
Some unexpected happenings in this family drama.
I really enjoyed this book. This is a must read author!
Pub Date 11 Aug 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
I just love Summer beach reads. Who can resist a book that is so full of emotion such as this one?
Adult sisters Jayne and Charlotte have been estranged for quite some time but must come together for the reading of their grandmother's will.
Jayne is the older sister and when they were children she would have done anything to protect Charlotte.
This book was fabulous right from thee start and I found it very hard to put down and it became a very quick read for me.
When they were children the children had to be separated it was beyond their control but younger sister Charlotte blames older sister Jayne for not being able to keep them together and has become a bitter adult for it.
Each carries a special memory with them of their last Summer at their grandparents beach house and the wonderful time they had together.
These days the sisters have nothing to do with each other though one of them has put a lot of effort into trying to change this.
A stipulation of the will says the sisters must live together in their grandparents beach house for 6 months while fixing it up n the order the grandmother specifies.
While there a lot of emotions play out including misunderstanding,grief,hurt,betrayal,love,peace,acceptance and more.
Will their grandmother, through her will be able to bring the sisters peace and harmony again in their lives?
Some unexpected happenings in this family drama.
I really enjoyed this book. This is a must read author!
Pub Date 11 Aug 2021
I was given a complimentary copy of this book. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.
August 9, 2021
2 sisters were separated by their parents divorce when they were younger. Their grandmother passed away and left them the house with the task of remodeling it. I enjoyed this book and was rooting for the sisters! Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this early release in exchange for my honest review.
July 12, 2021
Epic Summer Revisited. This was a strong look at sisters separated by forces beyond their control and the hurts and insecurities that this brought about. Long time fans of Ellingsen's will see her particular style of drama and storytelling play out well here, and it is also a great introduction to this author and her stylings. Told with a single perspective, this is also a book that will work well for those readers that don't like multiple POVs in a book. Ultimately a satisfying read that could prove cathartic for siblings separated by distance or other issues. Very much recommended.
July 8, 2023
Now this was an emotional read for me. but oh so good. I loved the ending the best. I would love to know if Jayne and Logan ended up together. It sure didn't hurt that Logan was a firefighter. I definitely recommend this one.
December 10, 2022
Thank you to Netgalley and the publisher for my digital copy in exchange for an honest review...I am sure I requested this book based on the cover alone because I really do like this cover a lot...but I actually really enjoyed the book itself as well. Two sisters, separated by their parents' bad decisions are forced to come together to fix up their Grandmother's house when she dies... Grandma had a plan, though, to try and bring the sisters together again so she created a mystery leaving clues all over the house...I really liked the story line and I loved almost all of the characters involved...I would definitely recommend it but I could be biased as I really love any book having to do with mysteries or scavenger hunts or even just leaving a house to a family member so we can watch them grow :)
July 16, 2021
This was an emotional and uplifting read and I couldn't put it down. I was so invested in the story because I also have a sister that lives in another town far away from me, and we can't see each other every time we want. I really liked all the characters and slow healing and building relationship between Jane and Charlotte. I would recommend this book with whole my heart.
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advance copy!
Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advance copy!
August 13, 2021
BLOG TOUR REVIEW
Review for 'When We Were Sisters' by Cynthia Ellingsen.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Cynthia Ellingsen, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 11th August 2021.
This is the first book I have read by this author.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful cover and intriguing sounding synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that 'Fans of Mary Ellen Taylor, Elin Hilderbrand and Mary Alice Monroe will love this'. I am a huge fan of Mary Ellen Taylor so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 25 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in North Carolina, USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written in first person perspective and the protagonist is Jayne Winters. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on.
It is set over/includes multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture.
What an absolutely beautiful read. Well done Cynthia!!! I'm looking forward to more of your books!!!
This book was very well written with vivid descriptions that sets the scene around you so you can hear the waves and feel the sand on your feet. The cover and synopsis suit the book perfectly.
This book was such a lovely, easy and heartwarming read. It tells the story of 2 sisters who were seperate and whose gran trys to bring them back together from the grave so to say. I really enjoyed the storyline and watch Charlotte and Jane's relationship change and develop throughout the different stages. I also enjoyed Charlotte's time at the cafe and getting to know the other characters around the village. The storyline is filled with love, loss, heartbreak, some surprises, a few smiles and laughters and family. There were a few moments of suspense and tension and also some with laughter, love and warmth. There was just the right amount of each emotion. It was very easy to read and I became completely absorbed in the storyline. I think the ending was absolutely perfect although I am intrigued to know if Jayne sets out on her new venture, maybe in the sequel?? Hint, hint Cynthia, there needs to be a sequel!!!
I loved meeting Jayne and her determination to keep going whilst being pushed away by Charlotte and the stress she was getting from the creditors. Logan was so sweet and I absolutely adored his personality and how he was such an amazing father. Charlotte really annoyed me sometimes with her petty attitude and it was constantly Jayne making all the effort, I did start warming to her after about half way through. Ken was a really nice and friendly guy and I thought it was lovely how he welcomes Jayne with open arms and I enjoyed "meeting" Josh and Evan too along with Lauren. Each character had their own unique personality and was realistic. I would love to see how they all get on.
Congratulations Cynthia on a fantastic novel and I cannot wait to read your next book. It would be fabulous to read more about Jayne and her family 😉. Welcome to my favourite author list!!!
Overall an absolutely gorgeous, page turning, heart warming novel that is perfect to read on the beach or curled up in bed.
Genres covered in this book include Romance Novel, Domestic Fiction, Holiday Fiction and Contemporary Romance amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Mary Ellen Taylor and anyone looking for a heartwarming Novel.
281 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#WhenWeWereSisters #Bookouture #CynthiaEllingsen #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@CynthiaEllingsen @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
Review for 'When We Were Sisters' by Cynthia Ellingsen.
Read and reviewed via NetGalley for Cynthia Ellingsen, Bookouture publishers and Bookouture anonymous
Publication date 11th August 2021.
This is the first book I have read by this author.
I was originally drawn to this book by its beautiful cover and intriguing sounding synopsis and title. The synopsis stated that 'Fans of Mary Ellen Taylor, Elin Hilderbrand and Mary Alice Monroe will love this'. I am a huge fan of Mary Ellen Taylor so am looking forward to seeing if this lives up to this statement. I must admit I was also biased due to the publisher being Bookouture. I have yet to read a book published by Bookouture that I haven't enjoyed. Hopefully this won't be the first... Watch this space! (Written before I started reading the book).
This novel consists of a prologue and 25 chapters. The chapters are short to medium in length so possible to read 'just one more chapter' before bed...OK, I know yeah right, but still just in case!
This book is based in North Carolina, USA 🇺🇸.
This book is written in first person perspective and the protagonist is Jayne Winters. The benefits of books written in first person perspective are as long as they are well written it makes you feel that you are being spoken to by the protagonist and it can create more of a bond between yourselves and them. If there are several protagonists you also get to see more of what is going on.
It is set over/includes multiple time lines. When books show what has happened in the past and what is happening in the present I find it really helps the reader (if it is well done) understand why things are happening and what has lead to the present activities and decisions. It also shows the bigger picture.
What an absolutely beautiful read. Well done Cynthia!!! I'm looking forward to more of your books!!!
This book was very well written with vivid descriptions that sets the scene around you so you can hear the waves and feel the sand on your feet. The cover and synopsis suit the book perfectly.
This book was such a lovely, easy and heartwarming read. It tells the story of 2 sisters who were seperate and whose gran trys to bring them back together from the grave so to say. I really enjoyed the storyline and watch Charlotte and Jane's relationship change and develop throughout the different stages. I also enjoyed Charlotte's time at the cafe and getting to know the other characters around the village. The storyline is filled with love, loss, heartbreak, some surprises, a few smiles and laughters and family. There were a few moments of suspense and tension and also some with laughter, love and warmth. There was just the right amount of each emotion. It was very easy to read and I became completely absorbed in the storyline. I think the ending was absolutely perfect although I am intrigued to know if Jayne sets out on her new venture, maybe in the sequel?? Hint, hint Cynthia, there needs to be a sequel!!!
I loved meeting Jayne and her determination to keep going whilst being pushed away by Charlotte and the stress she was getting from the creditors. Logan was so sweet and I absolutely adored his personality and how he was such an amazing father. Charlotte really annoyed me sometimes with her petty attitude and it was constantly Jayne making all the effort, I did start warming to her after about half way through. Ken was a really nice and friendly guy and I thought it was lovely how he welcomes Jayne with open arms and I enjoyed "meeting" Josh and Evan too along with Lauren. Each character had their own unique personality and was realistic. I would love to see how they all get on.
Congratulations Cynthia on a fantastic novel and I cannot wait to read your next book. It would be fabulous to read more about Jayne and her family 😉. Welcome to my favourite author list!!!
Overall an absolutely gorgeous, page turning, heart warming novel that is perfect to read on the beach or curled up in bed.
Genres covered in this book include Romance Novel, Domestic Fiction, Holiday Fiction and Contemporary Romance amongst others.
I would recommend this book to the fans of the above as well as fans of Mary Ellen Taylor and anyone looking for a heartwarming Novel.
281 pages.
This book is just £1.99 to purchase on kindle via Amazon which I think is an absolute bargain for this book!!!
Rated 5 /5 (I LOVED it ) on Goodreads, Instagram, Amazon UK and Amazon US and on over 30 Facebook pages plus my blog on Facebook.
Feel free to add me on Goodreads or follow me on my website or Facebook for more reviews
#WhenWeWereSisters #Bookouture #CynthiaEllingsen #NetGalley #BookReview #BlogTour #BooksOnTour
@CynthiaEllingsen @Bookouture @Bookworm1986 @bookworm86
https://kcmw86.wixsite.com/bookworm86
https://m.facebook.com/Bookworm1986/?...
https://m.facebook.com/Bookwork86/?__...
August 1, 2021
Sisters Jayne and Charlotte haven't seen other in over 20 years. When their parents divorced, Charlotte stayed with their father and Jayne moved to Dublin with her mother who needed to take care of her father. The only summer that they spent together was when they were ten and spent the summer at their grandparent's beach house. After that summer, they became estranged and haven't talked each other in over 20 years. All they have is their memories of that happy time. Now they live totally different lives and both have kept their hurt about their estrangement affect their lives. Jayne is single and bankrupt and not sure if she'll be able to meet her bills. Charlotte is married to a successful man and has two sons. She works from home in a high pressure job. They are both surprised and unhappy with the conditions that their grandmother put on bequeathing her beach house. Their grandmother wanted them to renovate her beach house within the next six months and work together on the renovation. Once the house is done, they can either sell it or make it a family house. Even though they agreed to the stipulations of the will, there was a lot of animosity and distrust between them. Charlotte was mad at her mother for only taking one daughter with her when she left and she felt like Jayne had gotten all of their mothers love. Jayne was angry because Charlotte never wrote to her after their glorious summer when the felt like sisters. Can renovating the beach house make them become sisters again or is there too much distrust between them?
This is emotional book about sisters and secrets, love and forgiveness. It had two fantastic main characters, a bit of romance, issues with Charlotte's teen age sons and a lot of background on the work involved in renovating an old house. Can the bonds of sisterhood make Jayne and Charlotte forgive each other and move forward as friends or will the secrets that they find in the house separate them again? I have read other books by this author and she always creates characters that her readers care about and plots about the importance of family. This is an emotional and uplifting book about sisters, secrets and the family bonds that hold us together no matter how complicated they are
Thanks to Bookouture for a copy of this book to read and review.
This is emotional book about sisters and secrets, love and forgiveness. It had two fantastic main characters, a bit of romance, issues with Charlotte's teen age sons and a lot of background on the work involved in renovating an old house. Can the bonds of sisterhood make Jayne and Charlotte forgive each other and move forward as friends or will the secrets that they find in the house separate them again? I have read other books by this author and she always creates characters that her readers care about and plots about the importance of family. This is an emotional and uplifting book about sisters, secrets and the family bonds that hold us together no matter how complicated they are
Thanks to Bookouture for a copy of this book to read and review.
August 13, 2021
For my copy of this book for which this is my honest review.
An unexpected legacy, with a detailed request from their Gran
Has sisters Jayne and Charlotte deciding whether to follow her plan.
If they work to renovate her old beach house together
It will belong to them forever and ever.
Sounds great, but of course there’s a catch for these dears
They haven’t met or spoken for twenty years!
Can they break down the barriers that kept them apart
Will doing so heal or break both their hearts?
This is a story of Grandmother who
Wants to reunite her grand-daughters, too.
She’s specified the order in which things should be fixed
And ensured that order cannot be mixed.
There’s hidden messages that the sisters discover,
Boxes of photos, great memories to recover.
But will this work bring them love or pain
Can anything bring them together again?
Such an emotional read full of family history,
With Gran working to help solve the mystery
Of why the sisters were kept apart for so long
Hoping to reunite them where they belong.
An unexpected legacy, with a detailed request from their Gran
Has sisters Jayne and Charlotte deciding whether to follow her plan.
If they work to renovate her old beach house together
It will belong to them forever and ever.
Sounds great, but of course there’s a catch for these dears
They haven’t met or spoken for twenty years!
Can they break down the barriers that kept them apart
Will doing so heal or break both their hearts?
This is a story of Grandmother who
Wants to reunite her grand-daughters, too.
She’s specified the order in which things should be fixed
And ensured that order cannot be mixed.
There’s hidden messages that the sisters discover,
Boxes of photos, great memories to recover.
But will this work bring them love or pain
Can anything bring them together again?
Such an emotional read full of family history,
With Gran working to help solve the mystery
Of why the sisters were kept apart for so long
Hoping to reunite them where they belong.
August 11, 2021
This was a nice book about sisters. It was a hard to put down book which I really enjoyed.
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the early copy
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the early copy
August 24, 2021
'When we were sisters' by Cynthia Ellingsen is an emotional but gripping story about two sisters who were separated at their young age by their parents. It not only is thought provoking and interesting, it also raises a lot of questions in our mind about parenting, children's hearts and their expectations
Jayne Winters and Charlotte are two sisters who discover that they have been named as the beneficiary of their Grandmother's will of her oceanside estate in North Carolina but with a very novel condition. They have been estranged for many years except for one summer in their childhood when they had spent the summer with their granny.
The condition in the will gives them an opportunity to connect, get to know each other and also reminisce of the past. Old wounds are also touched. Would the once estranged sisters be able to find love again, will they be able to reconcile the mistakes of their parents and whats the surprise that I didnt expect to find.
The story is written very beautifully, goes back and forth between past and present. It is narrated from the OV of Jayne and I as a reader did take sides as the story progressed but at the end I was much wiser that it is never good to take sides in emotional matters related to children and heart. It made me think, ponder about my childhood, my parenting of my children and so much more. It will be difficult to put the story down. The story also takes us to the scenic beach town with a parallel story of romance and friendship. The sisters journey of rediscovering each other, their past and the present to step into a future unknown along with the grandmother's surprise gifts all makes it a very enjoyable read.
If you love emotional stories then do pick this one up. I loved it.
I thank the author, The publisher Bookouture and Netgalley for approving my request to review and providing with an eARC. The opinions expressed are all mine.
Jayne Winters and Charlotte are two sisters who discover that they have been named as the beneficiary of their Grandmother's will of her oceanside estate in North Carolina but with a very novel condition. They have been estranged for many years except for one summer in their childhood when they had spent the summer with their granny.
The condition in the will gives them an opportunity to connect, get to know each other and also reminisce of the past. Old wounds are also touched. Would the once estranged sisters be able to find love again, will they be able to reconcile the mistakes of their parents and whats the surprise that I didnt expect to find.
The story is written very beautifully, goes back and forth between past and present. It is narrated from the OV of Jayne and I as a reader did take sides as the story progressed but at the end I was much wiser that it is never good to take sides in emotional matters related to children and heart. It made me think, ponder about my childhood, my parenting of my children and so much more. It will be difficult to put the story down. The story also takes us to the scenic beach town with a parallel story of romance and friendship. The sisters journey of rediscovering each other, their past and the present to step into a future unknown along with the grandmother's surprise gifts all makes it a very enjoyable read.
If you love emotional stories then do pick this one up. I loved it.
I thank the author, The publisher Bookouture and Netgalley for approving my request to review and providing with an eARC. The opinions expressed are all mine.
July 20, 2021
Charlotte and Jayne were sisters who were separated when they were young. When their parents divorced, Jayne moved to Ireland with her mother and Charlotte stayed in the U.S. with her father. The girls got to spend one summer together with their grandmother, and upon their grandmother's death, they learned that their grandmother left them the beach house. Jayne and Charlotte hadn't seen or spoken in twenty-five years. The condition was they had to live together for six months and fix up the house.
Once, they agreed to do it, it was rough at the start. Their grandmother had hidden different things that they would find to remind them that once they had been not only sisters, but best friends who loved each other so much.
As you read the book, you will realize what the parents choices not only did to them, but to the girls as well. With such a distance between the girls, not in distance but in their connection to each other, will they be able to connect on any level. You will also see where their grandmother had tried to make things better when the girls were young, and even after her death, she was still thinking of her granddaughters.
Life isn't easy for the girls, but the time comes when they have to decided for themselves to continue the way things have been for twenty-five years, or make the decision to change the course of their journeys, and walk on the same path once again. It is an emotional book, but it is also full of little reminders of the good times, the way it could be once again, and the day will come when the choice isn't your parent's choices anymore, they are the choices you are making.
Once, they agreed to do it, it was rough at the start. Their grandmother had hidden different things that they would find to remind them that once they had been not only sisters, but best friends who loved each other so much.
As you read the book, you will realize what the parents choices not only did to them, but to the girls as well. With such a distance between the girls, not in distance but in their connection to each other, will they be able to connect on any level. You will also see where their grandmother had tried to make things better when the girls were young, and even after her death, she was still thinking of her granddaughters.
Life isn't easy for the girls, but the time comes when they have to decided for themselves to continue the way things have been for twenty-five years, or make the decision to change the course of their journeys, and walk on the same path once again. It is an emotional book, but it is also full of little reminders of the good times, the way it could be once again, and the day will come when the choice isn't your parent's choices anymore, they are the choices you are making.
August 13, 2021
When We Were Sisters by Cynthia Ellingsen was a good read. It contained a good storyline, unexpected happenings, interesting people and sisters struggling to connect. I found myself liking both sisters and understood their dilemma.
Jayne and Charlotte were sisters, however they were only allowed a very short time living together, before their parents separated. They had one perfect summer when they were children visiting their grandmother at the ocean. That one perfect summer meant the world to their grandmother. After her death, she left the beach house to the sisters along with the money to fix the old house before keeping it or selling it.
The gift of time was not taken well by both sisters. They both had so many walls built up to push each other away. Charlotte was organized and could plan out the steps. Jayne was so nice trying to make a connection with Charlotte’s family, only to be rebuffed again and again. Their grandmother left some boxes that were discovered as they renovated the house. Each box was meant to help the sisters connect. However Charlotte had a secret that almost destroyed everything.
Secrets are never good. People get hurt. It is hard to keep making up over and over again. Families are hard work. Being sisters when so much is between them is hard work. When We Were Sisters by Cynthia Ellingsen was a good read.
Jayne and Charlotte were sisters, however they were only allowed a very short time living together, before their parents separated. They had one perfect summer when they were children visiting their grandmother at the ocean. That one perfect summer meant the world to their grandmother. After her death, she left the beach house to the sisters along with the money to fix the old house before keeping it or selling it.
The gift of time was not taken well by both sisters. They both had so many walls built up to push each other away. Charlotte was organized and could plan out the steps. Jayne was so nice trying to make a connection with Charlotte’s family, only to be rebuffed again and again. Their grandmother left some boxes that were discovered as they renovated the house. Each box was meant to help the sisters connect. However Charlotte had a secret that almost destroyed everything.
Secrets are never good. People get hurt. It is hard to keep making up over and over again. Families are hard work. Being sisters when so much is between them is hard work. When We Were Sisters by Cynthia Ellingsen was a good read.
July 20, 2021
This is my second Cynthia Ellingsen book that I have read recently and she has become one of my favourite authors. I loved "The Choice I Made" and as soon as I saw this one was available as an ARC I requested it. I was pleased that the publisher granted my request and I started reading "When We Were Sisters" that afternoon. I was not disappointed!
This is a great story about separation, reacquainting, trust, forgiveness, moving forward and family with all the drama as well as the love and happy memories. There is a little bit of romance thrown in to make it even better. It is a beautifully written book with lots of emotions and likeable characters. The location setting is well placed too!
What would have made this a 5 star read for me was if there was a bit more romance. And if there was less spent describing the family's time spent in the beach house and more time spent on the relationship struggles and reconnecting between Jayne and Graham, her estranged dad. This part seemed to be just added in at the end and didn't really fit the same.
Thanks so much Bookouture (who has become one of my favourite publishers) and NetGalley for giving the opportunity to read and review this wonderful book! I would recommend this book!
This is a great story about separation, reacquainting, trust, forgiveness, moving forward and family with all the drama as well as the love and happy memories. There is a little bit of romance thrown in to make it even better. It is a beautifully written book with lots of emotions and likeable characters. The location setting is well placed too!
What would have made this a 5 star read for me was if there was a bit more romance. And if there was less spent describing the family's time spent in the beach house and more time spent on the relationship struggles and reconnecting between Jayne and Graham, her estranged dad. This part seemed to be just added in at the end and didn't really fit the same.
Thanks so much Bookouture (who has become one of my favourite publishers) and NetGalley for giving the opportunity to read and review this wonderful book! I would recommend this book!
July 18, 2021
Wonderful novel about two sisters trying to find the closeness they once had prior to a parents divorce that tore them apart from each other for years. Charlotte and Jayne we close sisters when they were young but their parents divorce tore that apart as well as the relationship with the other respective parent. Jayne grew up in Ireland with her mother always longing for her sister Charlotte but as time passed the gap between them grew so she did not feel comfortable reaching out again. Charlotte grew up with her father and as her father moved on so did she hiding pain from being rejected by her mother and sister. The Grandmother on the father's side passed away and in a final attempt to pull the sisters together she gifts them a fix it up project in a prime location.
The author's writing is nicely done and presents the story with the present with flashbacks to the past. The unravels at a good pace while there is romance brewing in the background and showing how handy women can be at getting tasks done on the fix it upper. Enjoyed the characters as well as the story line and the pace the story was told. The descriptions of the scenery was amazing as well as the progress in the house. I enjoyed this light read and it is perfect compliment to the a relaxing summer.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for a review.
The author's writing is nicely done and presents the story with the present with flashbacks to the past. The unravels at a good pace while there is romance brewing in the background and showing how handy women can be at getting tasks done on the fix it upper. Enjoyed the characters as well as the story line and the pace the story was told. The descriptions of the scenery was amazing as well as the progress in the house. I enjoyed this light read and it is perfect compliment to the a relaxing summer.
Thank you to the author, publisher and Netgalley for the ARC in exchange for a review.
August 29, 2021
Jayne and Charlotte are two sisters that have lived separate lives for longer than they can remember. After being separated as young kids by their parents, their anger and resentment towards the situation soon became stronger than their bond and tore them apart. One day they find out their grandmother left them a house after she passes away, but the caveat of them keeping the house is that they must spend the summer working to restore it together. Can they find a way to get over the past and be in each others' lives again as they work to restore the house, can they restore their relationship as well?
This was such an enjoyable summer read for me. I found myself quickly drawn into the story as it began to unravel and couldn't wait to see how it would play out! As the story progressed, I began to go back and forth with each sister. First, taking Jayne's side and blaming Charlotte. Then, taking Charlotte's side and blaming Jayne. Back and forth. I couldn't decide! But I loved the unexpected ending and can't wait to read more from the author!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the ARC in exchange for my review and honest opinions.
This was such an enjoyable summer read for me. I found myself quickly drawn into the story as it began to unravel and couldn't wait to see how it would play out! As the story progressed, I began to go back and forth with each sister. First, taking Jayne's side and blaming Charlotte. Then, taking Charlotte's side and blaming Jayne. Back and forth. I couldn't decide! But I loved the unexpected ending and can't wait to read more from the author!
Thank you to Netgalley and the publishers for the ARC in exchange for my review and honest opinions.
July 10, 2021
I kindly received an eARC advance copy of this book to read and review though NetGalley.
Sisters Jayne and Charlotte were separated at a young age. Jayne and her mother moved to Ireland to care for her ill grandfather after her parents divorced.
Younger sister Charlotte continued to live with her father. They only spent one idyllic summer together with their grandmother at her beach house.
Now their grandmother has died and left the house to the sisters with the condition that that work together to restore the old property.
Jayne is in financial dire straights while Charlotte is married to a successful husband with two teenage sons.
They agree to move into the house for the summer to work on it. As time passes they start to rebuild their relationship, although all is not what it seems on the surface for either of them.
This book is filled with emotion, and slow healing and building of relationships. It’s beautifully written, with the peaceful backdrop of the healing ocean always present. An absolutely excellent read - total gem! 💎 ❤️📚
Sisters Jayne and Charlotte were separated at a young age. Jayne and her mother moved to Ireland to care for her ill grandfather after her parents divorced.
Younger sister Charlotte continued to live with her father. They only spent one idyllic summer together with their grandmother at her beach house.
Now their grandmother has died and left the house to the sisters with the condition that that work together to restore the old property.
Jayne is in financial dire straights while Charlotte is married to a successful husband with two teenage sons.
They agree to move into the house for the summer to work on it. As time passes they start to rebuild their relationship, although all is not what it seems on the surface for either of them.
This book is filled with emotion, and slow healing and building of relationships. It’s beautifully written, with the peaceful backdrop of the healing ocean always present. An absolutely excellent read - total gem! 💎 ❤️📚
July 12, 2021
What a thoughtful, sweet, poignant read. Ellingsen’s writing sucked me on from the first chapter. Two sisters, separated by selfish decisions, anger, and time, are forced to rehab their grandmother’s beach house. It’s a scavenger hunt for clues as well since the deceased is trying to heal the breach between the estranged siblings. I liked all the characters, except one, who I think was very selfish. The rapprochement between Charlotte and Jayne was very realistic. I liked all the detail about renovations the house. The ending held the hope of much promise. It is a very satisfying read. Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for the advance copy.
November 11, 2021
This is a heartwarming book about two estranged sisters forced to live together by the terms of their grandmother’s will, in order to get their inheritance. Jayne and Charlotte were close as children, but their parent’s divorce tore the family apart.
I liked the character development each sister had as they spent more time together, and I thought that their grandmother leaving little things for them to find was a fun idea that brought them closer together. This is a great example of quality women’s fiction, 4 stars.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I liked the character development each sister had as they spent more time together, and I thought that their grandmother leaving little things for them to find was a fun idea that brought them closer together. This is a great example of quality women’s fiction, 4 stars.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
June 19, 2023
This is such a touching heartfelt story, I think it may be my favourite of this year. Truly puts things in perspective. Life’s too short, be honest, be real and don’t let regret slip you from happiness. A MUST read!
July 20, 2021
Two sisters split apart by their parents. One in us and one in Ireland come together over a. Beach house left to the by their grandmother. Can they overcome the resentments and misconceptions. A true surprise ending. Good read!
August 11, 2021
Thank you NetGalley, Cynthia Ellingsen and Bookouture for the ARC of When We Were Sisters. This is my personal review.
Jayne and Charlotte are sisters who had not seen each other for years. Not being together for years was about to change when they inherited a beach house from their grandmother. There was a catch to either keeping it or selling it- first they had to remodel the home and had to live in it together while they did it.
The story has so many ups and downs and twists and turns it kept me wondering if they could accomplish what they needed to do and along the way reconnect as sisters at the same time.
I loved that their grandmother had put hidden notes around the house that they would find as they did the work.
As the story unfolds, I got so attached to the sisters I wanted everything to turn our for them so they would be a family again.
Jayne and Charlotte are sisters who had not seen each other for years. Not being together for years was about to change when they inherited a beach house from their grandmother. There was a catch to either keeping it or selling it- first they had to remodel the home and had to live in it together while they did it.
The story has so many ups and downs and twists and turns it kept me wondering if they could accomplish what they needed to do and along the way reconnect as sisters at the same time.
I loved that their grandmother had put hidden notes around the house that they would find as they did the work.
As the story unfolds, I got so attached to the sisters I wanted everything to turn our for them so they would be a family again.
September 3, 2021
Family, Home
This is a beautiful story of sisters reuniting and facing the many things that kept them apart. I will confess to a bit of frustration that two women in their 30s could hold such anger for so long without confronting it. Still, it is a rich story of redefining family.
This is a beautiful story of sisters reuniting and facing the many things that kept them apart. I will confess to a bit of frustration that two women in their 30s could hold such anger for so long without confronting it. Still, it is a rich story of redefining family.
December 3, 2023
First sentence: “Mist swirled around the house on the hill, the view like a memory I had visited too often in my mind”
July 3, 2024
This book had me sobbing. It was so beautifully written and the story of the sisters is just so perfect, so hard to put down.
December 13, 2024
What a great story!
February 27, 2025
I loved this book!
August 11, 2021
I really enjoyed the story of the two sisters, Jayne and Charlotte. They have been apart 20 years due to family circumstances. How their mother could do what she did was hard to fathom but she had her personal reasons which we find out by the end of the book.
Their grandmother has passed away and her last wish is that the two sisters reconcile. Her will states they must remodel her house.
A very emotional read full of secrets, forgiveness, healing and being able to move forward.
The author did a great job with her characters. I enjoyed her writing style and hope to read more from her.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and author, Cynthia Ellingsen for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
Their grandmother has passed away and her last wish is that the two sisters reconcile. Her will states they must remodel her house.
A very emotional read full of secrets, forgiveness, healing and being able to move forward.
The author did a great job with her characters. I enjoyed her writing style and hope to read more from her.
Many thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture and author, Cynthia Ellingsen for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.
August 20, 2021
Thanks to Netgalley and Bookouture for allowing me to read this Arc.
Two sisters, Charlotte and Jayne were separated when they were young, Jayne moving to Ireland with her mother while Charlotte stayed in the USA with her father. They haven't seen or been in contact with each other for twenty years. But their grandmother has left them her house with the condition they renovate it together. Read on to find out how that goes!!! A bittersweet read and I loved it.
Two sisters, Charlotte and Jayne were separated when they were young, Jayne moving to Ireland with her mother while Charlotte stayed in the USA with her father. They haven't seen or been in contact with each other for twenty years. But their grandmother has left them her house with the condition they renovate it together. Read on to find out how that goes!!! A bittersweet read and I loved it.
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