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From the ashes of war emerges a hero, and a tale of bravery eighty years in the making…

A young boy and his mother in mourning. A handsome fighter pilot who arrives on their doorstep. And a story of heroism and sacrifice that helped change the course of history.

After a summer spent searching for answers, Helen, Robyn, and the rest of the Thistle Island community will finally learn what happened to the man who never made it home, the man who captured a young nurse’s heart and held on to it for a lifetime.

Eight decades later, John Sullivan has been found. Join them in hearing his story.

Sink your toes into the golden-sand beaches of Thistle Island, where strangers are friends, sunshine is plentiful, and the ocean is always just a few steps away. This feel-good small-town women’s fiction series is perfect for readers of all ages.

Author's This is a continuing series that follows the lives of the residents of Thistle Island throughout multiple books that are best read in order.

216 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 2, 2022

854 people are currently reading
131 people want to read

About the author

Mia Kent

34 books87 followers

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5 stars
830 (71%)
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271 (23%)
3 stars
59 (5%)
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4 (<1%)
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1 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews
2 reviews1 follower
December 6, 2024
This is a great story and makes you want to keep reading. However, this series could have been done in one or two books. A little frustrating to keep purchasing the next book to get to the end of the story.
Profile Image for Jocelyn Bogart.
94 reviews
May 3, 2025
definitely my favourite book of this little series so far! getting to see helen finally get some closure for john and meet robert almost brought me to tears, their whole story is just so sweet and it’s devastating that their lives together were cut short. I also really enjoyed the historical fiction aspect of this particular book, it was cool to learn what john and elijah were actually up to during the war, as well as the impact it had on jewish american soldiers and how they were able to help take down germany. that storyline aside, I looooove levi and robyn together, I’m so happy they are finally happening! now that the helen/john storyline is fairly wrapped up I’m intrigued to see where the last 2 books will take us. I wasn’t expecting to read past the first book I randomly picked up for free, but I’m so in love with this little island and all of its residents, I never want to leave.
Profile Image for Trish Drinkwater.
183 reviews2 followers
May 21, 2025
Having enjoyed the first Thistle Island book as much as I did, I downloaded the set and have been able to read the series as one book. The way the characters relate to each other but become real people in their own right is beautiful. Lots of tissues needed for this one, it is so touching and beautiful.
It's important to read these in order and I'm looking forward to reading the next in the series.
A really beautiful concept, a delightful read and a feel good book that isn't soppy or forced.
24 reviews
February 25, 2023
wonderful read

I thoroughly enjoyed each of the books & after the first one I knew I had to get the next one & then the next one & finally this one. These were so well written & you could visualize each character because of her description.
Now I’m going to read The Dance & see where that takes me.
Thank you so much for these wonderful books.
2 reviews
April 14, 2024
I have now read 4 of the 6 books of Thistle Island. Mia Kent enfolds you in all the characters, and like good friends, they become endearing, frustrating, and annoyingly "blinkered", in turn.

I have enjoyed reading their stories immensely, especially as they are interwoven with history. I have the next 2 books to read, which I know won't take me long.

Thank you Mia
Profile Image for Sharon Shellito.
30 reviews
September 28, 2024
Helen and John's story continues to unfold with the help of Robyn and her friends. A lifetime of love lost but never forgotten culminates as answers are finally uncovered, while new love and missed opportunities continue to be part of the untold storyline. Once again the author has left you wanting more...thankfully the story isn't over. Bring on the next book!
Profile Image for Kathleen Long.
36 reviews
October 23, 2024
The ending of this book is bittersweet as we discover what happened to John. Thankful for his heroism during the war but sad bc he never got to give his Rosie the ring and forever that he always wanted to give her. I can only imagine that the next book will dive into the lives of the other characters and their love interests.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Lynn Dixon.
Author 27 books18 followers
October 29, 2024
Though there are several subplots of budding romances in The Gift by Mia Kent, the main plot focuses on 98-year old Helen who was a wartime nurse. She finally gets answers about what happened to her beloved pilot, John Sullivan, alias John Asher. Plus, she receives a long withheld gift. Superb writing!
Profile Image for KK from KY.
175 reviews
April 12, 2025
I’m an emotional mess.

The best review I can give this book right now is that I’m in such an emotional state right now I can’t even see what I’m typing for this review. That is the highest of praise coming from me. Read this book. Start with the first one in the series and read them all. I’m on to the next. After I find my tissues. 😉
1,161 reviews26 followers
January 28, 2023
This wonderful story continues

Robyn's relationship with Levi grows. Helen finally gets some closure on what happened to John. Now can Brooke and Owen find happiness . great continuation of this story
157 reviews
March 17, 2024
The Gift, Book 4

I loved the book it was amazing how the author went from past to future and the story was never boring it was exciting, sad and happy. Can't wait to read her other books.
42 reviews1 follower
May 22, 2025
Finally finished John & Helen’s story

It seemed longer, because Helen’s story was especially long. It was great the way it was finished. Very well written and like most of Mia Kent’s books not extremely long.
Profile Image for Judy Hardwick.
643 reviews7 followers
August 26, 2025
At last!

I'm so thrilled to find a sweet end to Helen's and John's story! And now I'm intrigued about a couple of other couples who may not quite accept they're meant to be together... onward...
48 reviews
April 22, 2023
WOW great read

Well this had me crying. I got so engrossed in this book, I felt as though I was part of the meeting with Helen. Downloading the next book.😍😍😍😍😍
Profile Image for Michelle.
40 reviews30 followers
August 15, 2023
Absolutely love this series! I look forward to reading each page, each chapter, and I enjoy reading each book more than the previous...
222 reviews
March 27, 2024
I'm hooked

Oh man its so sad and heartbreaking but I couldn't set it down.Oh I had tears streaming down my face then so much happened. John brother man I would have fainted.
Profile Image for Wendy Brescia.
149 reviews
September 1, 2024
Helen’s story finally had an ending

I’m couldn’t wait to hear the ending of John and Helen’s story. It gives hope for true love. Never give up on your dreams ❤️
5 reviews1 follower
November 21, 2024
Mystery and LOVE

Excellent book with some mystery, loved the characters. Loved one advice given about love and devotion to those we love
89 reviews
November 1, 2025
oh this was lovely!! it felt like we had some closure, versus hanging for the next book in the series. I will read, but a break first
Displaying 1 - 22 of 22 reviews

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