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Indigo Isle
“Storms show up and there ain’t a thing we can do to stop them.”
Sonny Bates left South Carolina fifteen years ago and never looked back. Now she’s a successful Hollywood location scout who travels the world, finding perfect places for movie shoots. Home is wherever she lands, and between her busy schedule and dealing with her boss’s demands, she has little time to think about the past . . . until her latest gig lands her a stone’s throw from everything she left behind.
Searching off the coast of Charleston for a secluded site to film a key scene, Sonny wanders onto a private barrier island and encounters its reclusive owner, known by locals as the Monster of Indigo Isle. What she finds is a man much more complex than the myth.
Once a successful New York attorney, Hudson Renfrow’s grief has exiled him to his island for several years. He spends his days alone, tending his fields of indigo, then making indigo dye—and he has no interest in serving the intrusive needs of a film company or yielding to Sonny’s determined curiosity. But when a hurricane makes landfall on the Carolina coast, stranding them together, an unlikely friendship forms between the two damaged souls. Soon the gruff exterior Hudson has long hidden behind crumbles—exposing the tender part of him that’s desperate for forgiveness and a second chance.
A story of hanging on and letting go, of redemption and reconciliation, and of a love that heals the deepest wounds, from the author of the breakout Southern fiction bestseller Under the Magnolias.
This book offers these extra helpful and fun
Discussion questions—we’ve got you covered for book club!RecipesA playlist inspired by Sonny and Hudson’s love story
Sonny Bates left South Carolina fifteen years ago and never looked back. Now she’s a successful Hollywood location scout who travels the world, finding perfect places for movie shoots. Home is wherever she lands, and between her busy schedule and dealing with her boss’s demands, she has little time to think about the past . . . until her latest gig lands her a stone’s throw from everything she left behind.
Searching off the coast of Charleston for a secluded site to film a key scene, Sonny wanders onto a private barrier island and encounters its reclusive owner, known by locals as the Monster of Indigo Isle. What she finds is a man much more complex than the myth.
Once a successful New York attorney, Hudson Renfrow’s grief has exiled him to his island for several years. He spends his days alone, tending his fields of indigo, then making indigo dye—and he has no interest in serving the intrusive needs of a film company or yielding to Sonny’s determined curiosity. But when a hurricane makes landfall on the Carolina coast, stranding them together, an unlikely friendship forms between the two damaged souls. Soon the gruff exterior Hudson has long hidden behind crumbles—exposing the tender part of him that’s desperate for forgiveness and a second chance.
A story of hanging on and letting go, of redemption and reconciliation, and of a love that heals the deepest wounds, from the author of the breakout Southern fiction bestseller Under the Magnolias.
This book offers these extra helpful and fun
Discussion questions—we’ve got you covered for book club!RecipesA playlist inspired by Sonny and Hudson’s love story
370 pages, ebook
First published June 1, 2023
191 people are currently reading
7001 people want to read
About the author
T.I. Lowe
28 books1,860 followersT.I. Lowe is an ordinary country girl who loves to tell extraordinary stories and is the author of nearly twenty published novels including her debut, LULU’S CAFÉ, a #1 bestseller. She lives with her husband and family in coastal South Carolina. Find her at Tilowe.com or on Facebook (T.I.Lowe), Instagram (Tilowe), and Twitter (@Tilowe).
To sign up for Lowe's newsletter, go to:https://www.tilowe.com/newsletter
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 614 reviews
May 27, 2023
An enjoyable story that combines the prodigal story with Beauty and the Beast. This book confronts the realities of what happens when women are trapped in a relationship they can't escape because they freeze rather than fight or flee. It also explores the deepest desire we all have to find people who love us for who we are. I love the setting (Charleston and surrounding islands) as well as the peek into moving making. The hero is dark and brooding (ala the Beast) with a back story that requires healing on his terms. This novel is a blending of women's fiction and romance, all with hope laced through the pages.
September 28, 2023
A STRONG 3 stars!
Excellent audiobook too!
Sonny is a location scout for a movie production company which takes her back to her home state that she ran from a long time ago.
Hudson is a grumpy, scarred recluse who lives on an island called Indigo Isle.
Sonny happens upon this island and meets Hudson much to his chagrin.
At first I wasn’t sure if there was going to be romance between Sonny and Hudson since he really wanted nothing to do with her. Totally a grumpy sunshine / hate to love trope done super well!
What I liked:
- Sonny and Hudson’s relationship. Nice and slow burn with tension out the wahzoo. Love loved the build up there with excellent pay off.
- the deep life lessons. This is no happy summer fluff book. Sonny deals with abuse. Hudson with grief. Serious consequences and feelings are described. It was done so well.
- the Biblical tie in to the prodigal son story. Sonny is the prodigal daughter and that reunion was beautiful and touching.
Why a 3 star?
-super slow start for me with lots of movie production descriptions and characters I hadn’t gotten to know yet. I wasn’t interested until she meets Hudson which doesn’t happen until almost half way.
Trigger warning for sexual abuse. Medium descriptions of it happening in the moment.
Mild mention of addiction and child neglect as well.
Definitely recommend. I thought it was well done. Just too many details to sift through to get there.
Thank you to Net Galley for the review copy!
Excellent audiobook too!
Sonny is a location scout for a movie production company which takes her back to her home state that she ran from a long time ago.
Hudson is a grumpy, scarred recluse who lives on an island called Indigo Isle.
Sonny happens upon this island and meets Hudson much to his chagrin.
At first I wasn’t sure if there was going to be romance between Sonny and Hudson since he really wanted nothing to do with her. Totally a grumpy sunshine / hate to love trope done super well!
What I liked:
- Sonny and Hudson’s relationship. Nice and slow burn with tension out the wahzoo. Love loved the build up there with excellent pay off.
- the deep life lessons. This is no happy summer fluff book. Sonny deals with abuse. Hudson with grief. Serious consequences and feelings are described. It was done so well.
- the Biblical tie in to the prodigal son story. Sonny is the prodigal daughter and that reunion was beautiful and touching.
Why a 3 star?
-super slow start for me with lots of movie production descriptions and characters I hadn’t gotten to know yet. I wasn’t interested until she meets Hudson which doesn’t happen until almost half way.
Trigger warning for sexual abuse. Medium descriptions of it happening in the moment.
Mild mention of addiction and child neglect as well.
Definitely recommend. I thought it was well done. Just too many details to sift through to get there.
Thank you to Net Galley for the review copy!
July 7, 2024
I know Indigo Isle will be one of my favorites of the year. Sonny our main protagonist is expertly written. I saw so much of myself in her. Hudson the love interest is another wonderful written character. This book deals with walking away from family to date rape. So if these subject bother you just be warned. TI Lowe writes these situations wonderfully. It’s not just a love story it deals with so much more, like her other books. I highly recommend this novel. Just be aware of the trigger warnings going into the book, I know all of you will love it as much as I did!!
May 18, 2024
Puiki, įtraukianti istorija. ❤️
Patiko 🤗
Patiko 🤗
August 3, 2023
Strong Conent Warnings: rape, sexual assault, date rape, long-term toxic relationship, quid pro quo relationship
I had mixed feelings about this book. While I very thoroughly enjoyed the Southern aspects of the book as a Southerner myself (the Southern slang, scenic descriptions of SC, the indigo dye making process, etc), the story itself just wasn't for me.
I found the FMC, Sonny, not really likeable or relatable. As part of her job as a location scout for movies (which was an interesting occupation to read about), Sonny finds an island that is private property and decides to explore it. She goes back several times despite the later warnings of its owner to not come back; I don't understand how ignoring someone's express wishes could be considered okay--i understand it had to happen or there'd be no love story but I didn't feel right or agree with this no boundary issue. Additionally, after the islands owner calls the cops on her, she gets very defensive and acted like the owner was in the wrong--again this attitude didn't make sense to me as that's generally what happens when you trespass.
The MMC, Hudson, was a bit more interesting as a character but I didn't quite get their romance. It's supposed to be influenced by Beauty and the Beast/grumpy sunshine trope but I guess I don't like that trope in contemporary fiction because I didn't see how they could be attracted to each other.
Several things were mentioned that I'm surprised were in a Christian fiction book: Days of Our Lives, Grey's Anatomy, casual sex, etc. While these things do exist, I'm not sure I want to read about them in a Christian fiction book, I just have higher expectations for this type of book. I was most surprised by how close the line was toed in the description of the sexual assualt/rape scenes--there are multiple. While it was kind of uncomfortable for me, I could see the thought process in making the reader feel for the victim but I know it will be too much for some readers.
Also along the same lines as content in CF books, Sonny mentions that she meditates. At the time she mentions it, she is lost from the Christian faith. I'm not sure if the author intended it to demonstrate how a lost person can be lead astray or if the fact that meditation is not a God-honoring practice was even considered, just a mainstream thing that someone would do.
Again, the majority of my enjoyment came from reading about the Southern aspects, but also some of the side characters (Vee) were interesting as well. I can also appreciate the overall themes/messages that we need to rely on God and forgiveness is a gift modeled by Christ.
I had mixed feelings about this book. While I very thoroughly enjoyed the Southern aspects of the book as a Southerner myself (the Southern slang, scenic descriptions of SC, the indigo dye making process, etc), the story itself just wasn't for me.
I found the FMC, Sonny, not really likeable or relatable. As part of her job as a location scout for movies (which was an interesting occupation to read about), Sonny finds an island that is private property and decides to explore it. She goes back several times despite the later warnings of its owner to not come back; I don't understand how ignoring someone's express wishes could be considered okay--i understand it had to happen or there'd be no love story but I didn't feel right or agree with this no boundary issue. Additionally, after the islands owner calls the cops on her, she gets very defensive and acted like the owner was in the wrong--again this attitude didn't make sense to me as that's generally what happens when you trespass.
The MMC, Hudson, was a bit more interesting as a character but I didn't quite get their romance. It's supposed to be influenced by Beauty and the Beast/grumpy sunshine trope but I guess I don't like that trope in contemporary fiction because I didn't see how they could be attracted to each other.
Several things were mentioned that I'm surprised were in a Christian fiction book: Days of Our Lives, Grey's Anatomy, casual sex, etc. While these things do exist, I'm not sure I want to read about them in a Christian fiction book, I just have higher expectations for this type of book. I was most surprised by how close the line was toed in the description of the sexual assualt/rape scenes--there are multiple. While it was kind of uncomfortable for me, I could see the thought process in making the reader feel for the victim but I know it will be too much for some readers.
Also along the same lines as content in CF books, Sonny mentions that she meditates. At the time she mentions it, she is lost from the Christian faith. I'm not sure if the author intended it to demonstrate how a lost person can be lead astray or if the fact that meditation is not a God-honoring practice was even considered, just a mainstream thing that someone would do.
Again, the majority of my enjoyment came from reading about the Southern aspects, but also some of the side characters (Vee) were interesting as well. I can also appreciate the overall themes/messages that we need to rely on God and forgiveness is a gift modeled by Christ.
June 19, 2023
Absolutely LOVED it! Definitely a favorite of the year!
Read
January 15, 2024I loved T.I. Lowe's Under the Magnolias, so I was excited to read this one.
However, I DNF'd at 34%. I don't find the summary of the book resembles the story itself... The MC was unlikeable, the interactions with her boss made me uncomfortable and the potential love interest was odd. I didn't like the way the story was going and upon reading reviews, I'm glad I didn't continue.
However, I DNF'd at 34%. I don't find the summary of the book resembles the story itself... The MC was unlikeable, the interactions with her boss made me uncomfortable and the potential love interest was odd. I didn't like the way the story was going and upon reading reviews, I'm glad I didn't continue.
June 9, 2023
I'm trying to coherently make my thoughts and feelings about this book convey the awesomeness of the story. This author has been a favorite of mine ever since I read Lulu's Cafe many years ago. She continues to astound me with her storytelling. This book engaged me from the first page until I read the very last one. Indigo Isle is an original story with grittiness, southern humor, inspiration, romance, and fun and loving characters. Well, mostly. The antagonist made me mad, but isn't that what they are supposed to do? Let me just say that I loved Hudson. He had me when he said he didn't own a TV! I fell in love then and there. He was a book reading hermit. Sonny was a sassy gal who I really wanted to be friends with. She was the prodigal daughter trying to get home. If I had to describe Indigo Isle, it would be a mash up of Beauty, and the Beast meets the Prodigal Son (daughter). I loved it. Please do yourself a favor and read this book! The ending was amazing with the happily ever after in which I love!
June 13, 2023
T.I. Lowe’s writing voice is always a win with me, and Indigo Isle is no exception!
Mark my words, y’all… the next time I make a ‘Book Boyfriend’ t-shirt, Hudson Renfrow will be on it. Oh my heart. That man had me falling in love with him (on a purely fictional basis, you understand) almost from the very first meeting, and Sonny wasn’t far behind me. Forgive me in advance if I make no sense while talking about him because I’m still swooning over him. He’s all man, but he has a huge heart and loves to read (even though his journal hilariously declares that he hates all the books he reads) and shows his affection – and love – by cooking for others. And that right there is one of the reasons I fell so hard for him. Yes, he’s gruff. Yes, his gruffness often comes across as rudeness. (He has reasons though.) But no matter how much Sonny’s persistent presence irritates him, he still sits her down in his kitchen and quietly feeds her. And once his walls come down … well, you’ll need something to dry your eyes but you’ll also need a good fan to cool yourself off. And once he starts kissing… Lord, have mercy.
Ok, I’ve gushed over our hero enough (for the time being) – let’s discuss our heroine Sonny. She’s sassy and smart, and on social media at least she appears to be living the dream as a location scout. In reality, though, that dream turned into a nightmare long ago, and it’s a nightmare she feels stuck in thanks to choices she made as a teenager. In Sonny, we see a prodigal who doesn’t know how to come home – physically or spiritually – and a wounded heart who needs a long hug from someone who gives without taking. Getting a front row seat to her journey, watching the people that the author moves into her life for that long hug (Erlene! Vee! Hudson!), and being there as the chains came off really touched my heart. Not gonna lie, I cried for her more than once in Indigo Isle – and not always because I was sad. There were lots of happy tears in there too.
Bottom Line: I may never recover from the perfection that is Indigo Isle by T.I. Lowe, an ode to Beauty-and-the-Beast (there’s even a Gaston figure you’ll love to hate) and an reenactment of the prodigal child parable. It burrowed into my soul, and it’s one I’ll definitely be thinking about for a long time. I loved the juxtaposition of Hudson’s grump (oops, I’m back to him again) and Sonny’s sunshine from a romantic point of view, of course, but I also loved the way Lowe plays these two personalities off each other to get rid of any pretense between them. Because, only when we quit pretending, can we begin to heal. There is too much to love about this book to fit into one review (I know, you’re thinking I certainly tried, given its length lol) but just trust me on this – move Indigo Isle to the top of your TBR list.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
Mark my words, y’all… the next time I make a ‘Book Boyfriend’ t-shirt, Hudson Renfrow will be on it. Oh my heart. That man had me falling in love with him (on a purely fictional basis, you understand) almost from the very first meeting, and Sonny wasn’t far behind me. Forgive me in advance if I make no sense while talking about him because I’m still swooning over him. He’s all man, but he has a huge heart and loves to read (even though his journal hilariously declares that he hates all the books he reads) and shows his affection – and love – by cooking for others. And that right there is one of the reasons I fell so hard for him. Yes, he’s gruff. Yes, his gruffness often comes across as rudeness. (He has reasons though.) But no matter how much Sonny’s persistent presence irritates him, he still sits her down in his kitchen and quietly feeds her. And once his walls come down … well, you’ll need something to dry your eyes but you’ll also need a good fan to cool yourself off. And once he starts kissing… Lord, have mercy.
Ok, I’ve gushed over our hero enough (for the time being) – let’s discuss our heroine Sonny. She’s sassy and smart, and on social media at least she appears to be living the dream as a location scout. In reality, though, that dream turned into a nightmare long ago, and it’s a nightmare she feels stuck in thanks to choices she made as a teenager. In Sonny, we see a prodigal who doesn’t know how to come home – physically or spiritually – and a wounded heart who needs a long hug from someone who gives without taking. Getting a front row seat to her journey, watching the people that the author moves into her life for that long hug (Erlene! Vee! Hudson!), and being there as the chains came off really touched my heart. Not gonna lie, I cried for her more than once in Indigo Isle – and not always because I was sad. There were lots of happy tears in there too.
Bottom Line: I may never recover from the perfection that is Indigo Isle by T.I. Lowe, an ode to Beauty-and-the-Beast (there’s even a Gaston figure you’ll love to hate) and an reenactment of the prodigal child parable. It burrowed into my soul, and it’s one I’ll definitely be thinking about for a long time. I loved the juxtaposition of Hudson’s grump (oops, I’m back to him again) and Sonny’s sunshine from a romantic point of view, of course, but I also loved the way Lowe plays these two personalities off each other to get rid of any pretense between them. Because, only when we quit pretending, can we begin to heal. There is too much to love about this book to fit into one review (I know, you’re thinking I certainly tried, given its length lol) but just trust me on this – move Indigo Isle to the top of your TBR list.
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
first reviewed at Reading Is My SuperPower
May 14, 2023
If you've read my reviews in the past, you know that Southern fiction is my favorite genre. I went into this book thoroughly blind and was thrilled to read that the setting was coastal South Carolina. The descriptions of the beach had me wanting to pack my bags and travel to the SC beach. Along with a beautiful setting, there were several fantastic characters and an interesting story about love and forgiveness.
Sonny is back in South Carolina for the first time in 15 years when she ran away from home while her family was at her high school graduation waiting for her to get her diploma. She has had some, but very little communication with one of her sisters but hasn't talked to her parents or other sister since she stole her parents money and left town for Hollywood. She didn't make it as an actress but is now one of the most sought after location mangers in Hollywood. She's not only responsible for finding locations that match the script, but she has to rent the locations, make sure that the cast and crew is adequately housed plus hire all of the companies to will help out the film - catering, cars, etc. Going back to SC reminds her of her family and all that she's missed but she isn't ready to take that first step back. While she is scouting locations, she boats to a small island that appears to be uninhabited but soon finds out that a recluse lives there - a man that the locals refer to as the Monster of Indigo Island. When she approaches him about doing some of the film on his island, he chases her away. As the stress of the film builds, she finds herself more drawn to the island and the man who lives there. She learns that he is a NY Attorney who has lived alone on the island for several years as he works through grief. A tropical storm keeps her on the island for a night and they both find out that they both have pain due to things that happened in their pasts. An unlikely friendship forms between the two damaged souls. Soon the gruff exterior Hudson has long hidden behind crumbles―exposing the tender part of him that’s desperate for forgiveness and a second chance. Will their friendship and understanding help them both to face their demons and find redemption from their pasts?
Both of the main characters were well written and I especially liked Sonny. We follow her through her stressful days and walk with her on Indigo Isle as she looks for peace in her life. We hurt for her as she is trying to live her life as she struggles to return to her past and see her family again. This is a beautiful look at two people who are at bad places in their lives who seek redemption and forgiveness from their past mistakes so that they can live in a future with no regrets. It's s story of hanging on and letting go, of redemption and reconciliation, and of a love that heals the deepest wounds
Sonny is back in South Carolina for the first time in 15 years when she ran away from home while her family was at her high school graduation waiting for her to get her diploma. She has had some, but very little communication with one of her sisters but hasn't talked to her parents or other sister since she stole her parents money and left town for Hollywood. She didn't make it as an actress but is now one of the most sought after location mangers in Hollywood. She's not only responsible for finding locations that match the script, but she has to rent the locations, make sure that the cast and crew is adequately housed plus hire all of the companies to will help out the film - catering, cars, etc. Going back to SC reminds her of her family and all that she's missed but she isn't ready to take that first step back. While she is scouting locations, she boats to a small island that appears to be uninhabited but soon finds out that a recluse lives there - a man that the locals refer to as the Monster of Indigo Island. When she approaches him about doing some of the film on his island, he chases her away. As the stress of the film builds, she finds herself more drawn to the island and the man who lives there. She learns that he is a NY Attorney who has lived alone on the island for several years as he works through grief. A tropical storm keeps her on the island for a night and they both find out that they both have pain due to things that happened in their pasts. An unlikely friendship forms between the two damaged souls. Soon the gruff exterior Hudson has long hidden behind crumbles―exposing the tender part of him that’s desperate for forgiveness and a second chance. Will their friendship and understanding help them both to face their demons and find redemption from their pasts?
Both of the main characters were well written and I especially liked Sonny. We follow her through her stressful days and walk with her on Indigo Isle as she looks for peace in her life. We hurt for her as she is trying to live her life as she struggles to return to her past and see her family again. This is a beautiful look at two people who are at bad places in their lives who seek redemption and forgiveness from their past mistakes so that they can live in a future with no regrets. It's s story of hanging on and letting go, of redemption and reconciliation, and of a love that heals the deepest wounds
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January 2, 2026
𓇼 ⋆.˚ 𓆉 𓆝 𓆡⋆.˚ 𓇼 ⋆.˚ 𓆉 𓆝 𓆡⋆.˚ 𓇼
If I could read it for the first time again, I would. I’ve read it more times than I can count and every time I fall more in love with it.
I melted while reading this book and fell in love with the mysterious Monster of Indigo Isle. It’s so compelling and wonderful I don’t even have words. Also Vee is amazing, what a queen.
Sonny is like the prodigal son, drowning in her mistakes even while there’s a lifeboat right next to her. Then she befriends a mysterious scarred man and learns what real friendship and authenticity is, as well as what it means to forgive and find forgiveness.
It’s so well written and I absolutely loved every second of this book. I wish it never ended.
Hudson slowly coming to love and trust Sonny was just ahhhhhhh I love him.
I love how raw, unfiltered, and honest it was. This ain’t your typical fluffy romance, this book faces grief and abuse face on. It’s blunt, tender, and heartbreaking.
Sonny and Hudson don’t just like each other, they need each other. To feel whole, to survive. They rely on each other on a deeper level. They make each other feel whole and seen, not just for looks but for who they truly are. Sonny sees past Hudson’s scars and grief, and he sees past her everything’s-just-dandy facade. They force each other to face the hard parts of their past, and forgive.
The only thing I don’t like about this book is the whole outdoor shower scene, where Sonny looks out a window and accidentally sees “a very naked” Hudson in the outdoor shower (she turns away before he turns around and is horrified and embarrassed). It was unnecessary and I didn’t like it. It stays clean but Sonny thinks back in it with embarrassment later (when Vee asks her how she knows how badly scarred Hudson is and she thinks about how much unscarred skin she saw).
𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟
TROPES:
⚓︎ Grumpy/sunshine
⚓︎ enemies-to-friends-to-more-than-lovers
⚓︎ she fell first but he fell harder
⚓︎ healing/redemption
⚓︎ finding God
⚓︎ breaking free of past mistakes
⚓︎ Beauty x beast
⚓︎ prodigal son
⚓︎ forgiveness
⚓︎ “Who did this to you”
⚓︎ Slowburn
CONTENT:
Language: None!
Sexual: kisses, Sonny is SA’d multiple times in the past (twice in book but there’s very vague details), Sonny’s boss has assaulted multiple women, Sonny says to Hudson “most guys would have taken something from me by now”, talking about the bruising on Sonny’s inner thighs and arms, or her being forced to go to the guys house, Vee threatens to call the police about it but Sonny begs her not too, making out (between Sonny’s boss and a woman), Sonny’s boss is a predator who forces Sonny to come to his house and sleep with him when she doesn’t do what he wants (she doesn’t do anything about it but wants away very badly) Sonny accidentally sees Hudson’s naked back in an outdoor shower (she is very very embarrassed), fade-to-black between married couple, character reveals that she’s pregnant (she’s married).
Faith: lots of talk about trying to find freedom from past mistakes and finding God again, praying, going to church, being on a prayer list, redemption, reconciliation between Sonny and her family, forgiveness,
Other: trauma, grief, triggers, pill addictions, anger issues
If I could read it for the first time again, I would. I’ve read it more times than I can count and every time I fall more in love with it.
I melted while reading this book and fell in love with the mysterious Monster of Indigo Isle. It’s so compelling and wonderful I don’t even have words. Also Vee is amazing, what a queen.
Sonny is like the prodigal son, drowning in her mistakes even while there’s a lifeboat right next to her. Then she befriends a mysterious scarred man and learns what real friendship and authenticity is, as well as what it means to forgive and find forgiveness.
It’s so well written and I absolutely loved every second of this book. I wish it never ended.
Hudson slowly coming to love and trust Sonny was just ahhhhhhh I love him.
I love how raw, unfiltered, and honest it was. This ain’t your typical fluffy romance, this book faces grief and abuse face on. It’s blunt, tender, and heartbreaking.
Sonny and Hudson don’t just like each other, they need each other. To feel whole, to survive. They rely on each other on a deeper level. They make each other feel whole and seen, not just for looks but for who they truly are. Sonny sees past Hudson’s scars and grief, and he sees past her everything’s-just-dandy facade. They force each other to face the hard parts of their past, and forgive.
The only thing I don’t like about this book is the whole outdoor shower scene, where Sonny looks out a window and accidentally sees “a very naked” Hudson in the outdoor shower (she turns away before he turns around and is horrified and embarrassed). It was unnecessary and I didn’t like it. It stays clean but Sonny thinks back in it with embarrassment later (when Vee asks her how she knows how badly scarred Hudson is and she thinks about how much unscarred skin she saw).
𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟𓆝 𓆟 𓆞 𓆝 𓆟
TROPES:
⚓︎ Grumpy/sunshine
⚓︎ enemies-to-friends-to-more-than-lovers
⚓︎ she fell first but he fell harder
⚓︎ healing/redemption
⚓︎ finding God
⚓︎ breaking free of past mistakes
⚓︎ Beauty x beast
⚓︎ prodigal son
⚓︎ forgiveness
⚓︎ “Who did this to you”
⚓︎ Slowburn
CONTENT:
Language: None!
Sexual: kisses, Sonny is SA’d multiple times in the past (twice in book but there’s very vague details), Sonny’s boss has assaulted multiple women, Sonny says to Hudson “most guys would have taken something from me by now”, talking about the bruising on Sonny’s inner thighs and arms, or her being forced to go to the guys house, Vee threatens to call the police about it but Sonny begs her not too, making out (between Sonny’s boss and a woman), Sonny’s boss is a predator who forces Sonny to come to his house and sleep with him when she doesn’t do what he wants (she doesn’t do anything about it but wants away very badly) Sonny accidentally sees Hudson’s naked back in an outdoor shower (she is very very embarrassed), fade-to-black between married couple, character reveals that she’s pregnant (she’s married).
Faith: lots of talk about trying to find freedom from past mistakes and finding God again, praying, going to church, being on a prayer list, redemption, reconciliation between Sonny and her family, forgiveness,
Other: trauma, grief, triggers, pill addictions, anger issues
May 30, 2025
/ „Žodžiai, vieninteliai tikri pažadai, kuriais kliaujasi kiekvienas.“ /
Daugiasluoksnis, atmosferiškas romanas, gvildenantis ne vieną rimtą, jautrią temą, bet kartu lengvas ir gerai nuteikiantis.
Imdama knygą į rankas nelabai žinojau, ko iš jos tikėtis, bet kažkaip jaučiau, kad patiks. Ir patiko! Nors prie ko prikibti vis tik radau.
Ne veltui pirmiausia paminėjau daugiasluoksniškumą. Jo čia išties daug ir įvairialypio – ne tik pagal apčiuopiamų temų kiekį (romantiniai santykiai, šeimos problemos, seksualinė prievarta darbe, bandymas išgyti nuo traumų ir kt.), bet ir pagal emocinį krūvį, kuris buvo dinamiškas ir puikiai sudėliotas.
Labai patiko sukurtas kontrastas tarp nudailintos holivudiškos kasdienybės ir atsiskyrėliško gyvenimo saloje. Kad ir kaip norėtųsi turtų ir prabangos, supranti, kad ir tas gyvenimas saloje kartais gali būti tikrai ne toks ir blogas, o gal net ir dar įdomesnis – juk ne kasdien ir ne visur sužinosi, kaip auginamos indigažolės ir iš jų sukuriamas iš kartos į kartą perduodamas verslas.
O dabar apie tai, kas užkliuvo. Kad ir kaip norėta užkabinti šeimos santykių temą, man ji čia pasirodė pritempta, padrika ir kažkokia labai netikroviška. Suprantu, kad per šią prizmę norėta atspindėti pagrindinės veikėjos vidinį pasaulį, elgseną ir pasaulėžiūrą, bet manęs neįtikino. Nesupratau tokio keisto seserų elgesio (net blogiausiose situacijose taip su savo sese tikrai nesielgčiau), o ir kai kurios situacijos man nesuvokiamos ir nepateisinamos, gal net kvailos, kur, atrodo, užtektų vos vieno pokalbio tam, kad nesutarimai būtų išspręsti.
Nepaisant to, „Indigo sala“ tikrai verta skaitytojų dėmesio, o ypač mėgstančių nenusaldintus meilės romanus, kurie nėra vien tik paviršutiniški, o užkabina ir kažką giliau.
Daugiasluoksnis, atmosferiškas romanas, gvildenantis ne vieną rimtą, jautrią temą, bet kartu lengvas ir gerai nuteikiantis.
Imdama knygą į rankas nelabai žinojau, ko iš jos tikėtis, bet kažkaip jaučiau, kad patiks. Ir patiko! Nors prie ko prikibti vis tik radau.
Ne veltui pirmiausia paminėjau daugiasluoksniškumą. Jo čia išties daug ir įvairialypio – ne tik pagal apčiuopiamų temų kiekį (romantiniai santykiai, šeimos problemos, seksualinė prievarta darbe, bandymas išgyti nuo traumų ir kt.), bet ir pagal emocinį krūvį, kuris buvo dinamiškas ir puikiai sudėliotas.
Labai patiko sukurtas kontrastas tarp nudailintos holivudiškos kasdienybės ir atsiskyrėliško gyvenimo saloje. Kad ir kaip norėtųsi turtų ir prabangos, supranti, kad ir tas gyvenimas saloje kartais gali būti tikrai ne toks ir blogas, o gal net ir dar įdomesnis – juk ne kasdien ir ne visur sužinosi, kaip auginamos indigažolės ir iš jų sukuriamas iš kartos į kartą perduodamas verslas.
O dabar apie tai, kas užkliuvo. Kad ir kaip norėta užkabinti šeimos santykių temą, man ji čia pasirodė pritempta, padrika ir kažkokia labai netikroviška. Suprantu, kad per šią prizmę norėta atspindėti pagrindinės veikėjos vidinį pasaulį, elgseną ir pasaulėžiūrą, bet manęs neįtikino. Nesupratau tokio keisto seserų elgesio (net blogiausiose situacijose taip su savo sese tikrai nesielgčiau), o ir kai kurios situacijos man nesuvokiamos ir nepateisinamos, gal net kvailos, kur, atrodo, užtektų vos vieno pokalbio tam, kad nesutarimai būtų išspręsti.
Nepaisant to, „Indigo sala“ tikrai verta skaitytojų dėmesio, o ypač mėgstančių nenusaldintus meilės romanus, kurie nėra vien tik paviršutiniški, o užkabina ir kažką giliau.
December 4, 2024
“What do you want?”
I opened my mouth to sass him about his impeccable southern hospitality, but a fragment of my brokenness fell out instead.
“I want more stories with you.”
T. I. Lowe is one of my favorite discoveries this year. She is a master of realistic Christian fiction. And while Indigo Isle didn't rip me apart like Under the Magnolias or Lulu's Cafe did, it still touched me. Plus, a mysterious island off South Carolina with a broken recluse of a man and an indigo farm?? Love the premise! Also, the romance was refreshingly different. As always, Lowe didn't shy away from hard topics in her Christian fiction, but part of the reason this didn't get 5 stars is because there was one scene of sexual assault that was too descriptive for me. That, and the third act breakup with 6 months of space made the pacing at the end a little off. I admit it was healthy for the characters to get things figured out, but the time jump led to the changes feeling sudden.
Overall I really enjoyed this unique South Carolinian romance on the barrier island of Indigo Isle. Also, V was a FABULOUS side character.
4.4 ⭐!
Audio: solid
Trigger Warning: sexual assault (one scene in particular was tough because it happened live)
Content: kisses only (except for implied intimacy between husband and wife in epilogue), estranged family, loss of a child, loss of a parent, sexual assault in the workplace
I opened my mouth to sass him about his impeccable southern hospitality, but a fragment of my brokenness fell out instead.
“I want more stories with you.”
T. I. Lowe is one of my favorite discoveries this year. She is a master of realistic Christian fiction. And while Indigo Isle didn't rip me apart like Under the Magnolias or Lulu's Cafe did, it still touched me. Plus, a mysterious island off South Carolina with a broken recluse of a man and an indigo farm?? Love the premise! Also, the romance was refreshingly different. As always, Lowe didn't shy away from hard topics in her Christian fiction, but part of the reason this didn't get 5 stars is because there was one scene of sexual assault that was too descriptive for me. That, and the third act breakup with 6 months of space made the pacing at the end a little off. I admit it was healthy for the characters to get things figured out, but the time jump led to the changes feeling sudden.
Overall I really enjoyed this unique South Carolinian romance on the barrier island of Indigo Isle. Also, V was a FABULOUS side character.
4.4 ⭐!
Audio: solid
Trigger Warning: sexual assault (one scene in particular was tough because it happened live)
Content: kisses only (except for implied intimacy between husband and wife in epilogue), estranged family, loss of a child, loss of a parent, sexual assault in the workplace
May 17, 2024
Knygų mainuose gauta knyga. Ir taip puikiai pataikyta 💜 negalėjau atsitraukti!
• Mes abu gyvenime apsisprendėme.
Mūsų pasirinkimo pasekmės buvo skaudžios.
Mes abu nešiojomės kaltę.
Nė vienas neketinome sau kada nors atleisti. •
• Mes abu gyvenime apsisprendėme.
Mūsų pasirinkimo pasekmės buvo skaudžios.
Mes abu nešiojomės kaltę.
Nė vienas neketinome sau kada nors atleisti. •
April 8, 2024
“My words weren’t needed. God heard them as they seeped through each tear and whimper.”
“Storms show up and there ain’t a thing we can do to stop them.”
—————
Do you know much about how indigo is farmed? About the plant and how it is processed to eventually make blue dye? If not, don’t feel bad. I didn’t either until I picked up this beautiful story that centers around a small indigo farm.
This story is southern fiction at its finest. Balmy weather, coastal breezes, scented warm air… you’ll be transported to a place seemingly idyllic from the outside looking in but within our main characters hearts—a storm is raging and about to break loose.
Hidden away on a rambling island, a mysterious and misunderstood man bears an unbearable pain. On the opposite shore, a bright young woman is running away from her rocky past and deals with constant remorse and shame.
Together, with scars from the past and present, their two worlds collide and the bitter, dark secrets they’ve both worked hard to conceal, come to light.
This story is for the reader who enjoys unforgettable characters and craves serious storylines that weave forgiveness, beauty from ashes, reconciliation and joy within its pages.
I personally enjoyed this story so much! The characters were richly written, the storytelling was immersive and although there is much sensitive content, I felt it was gracefully told and impactful. Without giving spoilers, I pray readers who may be facing similar circumstances will find hope and comfort in the books message, that ultimately points to Christ. I loved learning something extra within the story such as indigo farming in South Carolina.
I also enjoyed the ending and epilogue so much. I felt it was realistically portrayed and those last few chapters alone I would give 5 stars to! 👏
Content: sexual abuse on page. Dm me for more context if needed. Intimacy implied between married couple, face to black.
July 2, 2023
TW: multiple sexual assault on page.
I have so many thoughts on this book. First , the good part. I did like this author’s writing, and was glad for how it ended.
I’m not surprised, but disappointed, so many reviews and I didn’t see any content warnings prior. I notice with Christian book and readers, often that isn’t noted. Mainstream books and readers will often give TW. We must do better as Christians **end rant**
I was surprised by the content and this being a CF book. Multiple sexual assaults on page. No, no body parts were descriptive but it was described. Pretty unnecessary especially for CF.
The main characters had ZERO boundaries. Sonny constantly barged in on a private island and even broke into the dude’s house to read his private journals! Hudson did turn around and do the same to her hotel room so both had major boundary issues.
Sonny had NO backbone. She finally got one , a little, during the last hour of the audio.
I really loved her friend Vee and wished the book was about her instead (FYI, also casual sex off page but talked about in this book) I have higher standards for CF so this was disappointing.
I have so many thoughts on this book. First , the good part. I did like this author’s writing, and was glad for how it ended.
I’m not surprised, but disappointed, so many reviews and I didn’t see any content warnings prior. I notice with Christian book and readers, often that isn’t noted. Mainstream books and readers will often give TW. We must do better as Christians **end rant**
I was surprised by the content and this being a CF book. Multiple sexual assaults on page. No, no body parts were descriptive but it was described. Pretty unnecessary especially for CF.
The main characters had ZERO boundaries. Sonny constantly barged in on a private island and even broke into the dude’s house to read his private journals! Hudson did turn around and do the same to her hotel room so both had major boundary issues.
Sonny had NO backbone. She finally got one , a little, during the last hour of the audio.
I really loved her friend Vee and wished the book was about her instead (FYI, also casual sex off page but talked about in this book) I have higher standards for CF so this was disappointing.
October 16, 2024
That was a heavier read than expected.
Sonny Bates left her family in South Carolina and embarked on a career in the film industry in Los Angeles. Fifteen years later she's back in South Carolina and feeling forced to deal with a number of difficulties in her life.
There is some hope and humor within.
Nice job by the narrator.
Sonny Bates left her family in South Carolina and embarked on a career in the film industry in Los Angeles. Fifteen years later she's back in South Carolina and feeling forced to deal with a number of difficulties in her life.
There is some hope and humor within.
Nice job by the narrator.
September 30, 2023
Beautiful story! Inspiring, entertaining, romantic, humorous and yet filled with depth and meaning. Highly recommend.
August 10, 2023
4.5☆ The Lowcountry Charleston vibes are immaculate. There's just no place like it, and Lowe captured the essence of the Lowcountry so perfectly. Even if I hadn't started (and finished) this while sitting on a beach in Beaufort, I would have felt like I was there.
The plot definitely has nods to the Parable of the Prodigal Son, and I loved following Sonny through her journey. There were times I wanted to shake her, but I also couldn’t help but cheer her on as she started making steps toward healing instead of running away from it. As for Hudson, he's a grouchy man with his own baggage, but he's kind (and dare I say, very swoon-worthy). While I love a good dual POV story, I feel like their romance was more impactful by not knowing his thoughts right away. Sonny's relationship with Hudson is such a contrast to what she is used to, and I love that we get to see that in action as the story unfolds.
The Southern setting, depth, humor, and well-rounded side characters make this a story I'll remember!
The plot definitely has nods to the Parable of the Prodigal Son, and I loved following Sonny through her journey. There were times I wanted to shake her, but I also couldn’t help but cheer her on as she started making steps toward healing instead of running away from it. As for Hudson, he's a grouchy man with his own baggage, but he's kind (and dare I say, very swoon-worthy). While I love a good dual POV story, I feel like their romance was more impactful by not knowing his thoughts right away. Sonny's relationship with Hudson is such a contrast to what she is used to, and I love that we get to see that in action as the story unfolds.
The Southern setting, depth, humor, and well-rounded side characters make this a story I'll remember!
Read
November 19, 2024A beautifully and honestly written story. I loved that the author did not gloss over the hard things in life or sanitize the consequences of our choices. I loved the way the two main characters helped each other heal. Highly recommended for fans of authors like Charles Martin and Francine Rivers.
July 1, 2023
I did not finish this book . I hated the story line, a woman constantly sneaking in a man’s personal island and snooping when he has told you repeatedly to leave his stuff alone makes no sense and then the very uncomfortable story line of her boss using her sexually to make her keep her job was so not my thing. And it was overly predictable. I have loved two of her books but this one was not good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 21, 2023
Topic or themes I saw: Regret, fear, feeling unseen/unwanted/uncared for. Belonging, acceptance, and validation. Loneliness and the walls we build to protect our hearts from pain.
Read it if you love:
✔️Southern Fiction
✔️Beauty and the Beast
✔️Prodigal son (In this case, daughter) stories
✔️Islands
✔️Movie Sets
✔️Stories with characters who have authentic wounds and struggles
Story: Sonny Bates left home looking to prove herself…and she does, on the outside. But she finds it empty, fake, and regrets the choices she made to get there. As a location scout and set manager, Sonny winds up meeting a reclusive man
on an island who thinks he just wants to be left alone. Leaving him alone is the last thing Sonny plans to do…
This is a story of two wounded sounds in need of healing.
This book tackles hard subjects surrounding trauma—both the loss of loved ones and sexual abuse—but it is done in a gentle and healing way. While some readers may need to take caution as it could be triggering, I think it is a very important topic to explore in fiction and T.I. Lowe did excellent with these harder topics. She writes about hard subjects, but does so with such grace. She interweaves humor and beauty into the story, lightening the mood (without minimizing the hard) so the reader can explore these important topics without a depressing , heavy story.
Main takeaway: Shame, bitterness, and regret only build walls to keep the victim in prison. But grace, mercy, and compassion restores wounds and binds hearts together in forgiveness and hope.
“No one should take anything from you without permission.”
“A kiss should never take. Well maybe your breath. But never your dignity. Or your freedom.”
Read it if you love:
✔️Southern Fiction
✔️Beauty and the Beast
✔️Prodigal son (In this case, daughter) stories
✔️Islands
✔️Movie Sets
✔️Stories with characters who have authentic wounds and struggles
Story: Sonny Bates left home looking to prove herself…and she does, on the outside. But she finds it empty, fake, and regrets the choices she made to get there. As a location scout and set manager, Sonny winds up meeting a reclusive man
on an island who thinks he just wants to be left alone. Leaving him alone is the last thing Sonny plans to do…
This is a story of two wounded sounds in need of healing.
This book tackles hard subjects surrounding trauma—both the loss of loved ones and sexual abuse—but it is done in a gentle and healing way. While some readers may need to take caution as it could be triggering, I think it is a very important topic to explore in fiction and T.I. Lowe did excellent with these harder topics. She writes about hard subjects, but does so with such grace. She interweaves humor and beauty into the story, lightening the mood (without minimizing the hard) so the reader can explore these important topics without a depressing , heavy story.
Main takeaway: Shame, bitterness, and regret only build walls to keep the victim in prison. But grace, mercy, and compassion restores wounds and binds hearts together in forgiveness and hope.
“No one should take anything from you without permission.”
“A kiss should never take. Well maybe your breath. But never your dignity. Or your freedom.”
August 30, 2023
I LOVED THIS!
It started off a little slow, but once Little Miss Ray of Sunshine met Mr. Grumpypants it was full steam ahead. And I was here for every growl, grumble, and glower.
I really liked the story of guilt and redemption that was all weaved beautifully together with Ezekiel 34:16.
But back to the main thing.
HUDSON RENFROW.
Especially toward the end, I was combusting and squealing from my love of him. I guess after reading Lulu's Cafe, Under the Magnolias, and now Indigo Isle, I pointed at the gruff, stormy gray-eyed man of few words and said, "He's mine!" Especially when he said these beautiful words ⬇😍⬇😍⬇😍
"No one should ever take anything from you without permission. I promise I won’t....A kiss should never take. Well, maybe your breath. But never your dignity. Or your freedom.”
Ladies and Gentlemen, the Monster of Indigo Isle, Hudson Renfrow!
It started off a little slow, but once Little Miss Ray of Sunshine met Mr. Grumpypants it was full steam ahead. And I was here for every growl, grumble, and glower.
I really liked the story of guilt and redemption that was all weaved beautifully together with Ezekiel 34:16.
But back to the main thing.
HUDSON RENFROW.
Especially toward the end, I was combusting and squealing from my love of him. I guess after reading Lulu's Cafe, Under the Magnolias, and now Indigo Isle, I pointed at the gruff, stormy gray-eyed man of few words and said, "He's mine!" Especially when he said these beautiful words ⬇😍⬇😍⬇😍
"No one should ever take anything from you without permission. I promise I won’t....A kiss should never take. Well, maybe your breath. But never your dignity. Or your freedom.”
Ladies and Gentlemen, the Monster of Indigo Isle, Hudson Renfrow!
January 15, 2025
4.5. ⭐️
September 29, 2024
Nors pirma karta pries kelis men paemus skaityt, padejau i sali, dziaugiuosi, kad vel nusprendziau pratesti. Veiksmo daug nebuvo, bet istorija grazi, miela, su savais skauduliais. Patiko!
November 9, 2024
3,75 ⭐️
“Pajutau begalinį norą tapti jo apsauga. Štai atkeliavau į salą, ketindama nugriauti jo sienas, o dabar tenorėjau pastatyti dar vieną ir apginti jį nuo dar didesnio skausmo”
“Pajutau begalinį norą tapti jo apsauga. Štai atkeliavau į salą, ketindama nugriauti jo sienas, o dabar tenorėjau pastatyti dar vieną ir apginti jį nuo dar didesnio skausmo”
June 8, 2023
Indigo Isle is a poignant cautionary tale about how the choices we make impact us far into the future.
Sonny Bates is a Prodigal in the literal sense, running away from home at the age of seventeen to "find herself" in Hollywood. Hudson Renfrow is also a Prodigal but more so as a man running away from his devastated heart and the guilt he experiences. I loved their witty give and take banter as they came to adapt to each other's company. Vee and Erlene were great as supportive friends. The indigo dye farming was fascinating.
Indigo Isle is an interesting and well told story. It held my full attention, and I appreciated each twist and turn until...well, until I didn't. If you are a sensitive reader like I am, be aware there are a few graphic scenes that I wish had just "faded to black". I came close to stopping reading but pressed on and was able to enjoy the rest of the book and its captivating conclusion.
Sonny Bates is a Prodigal in the literal sense, running away from home at the age of seventeen to "find herself" in Hollywood. Hudson Renfrow is also a Prodigal but more so as a man running away from his devastated heart and the guilt he experiences. I loved their witty give and take banter as they came to adapt to each other's company. Vee and Erlene were great as supportive friends. The indigo dye farming was fascinating.
Indigo Isle is an interesting and well told story. It held my full attention, and I appreciated each twist and turn until...well, until I didn't. If you are a sensitive reader like I am, be aware there are a few graphic scenes that I wish had just "faded to black". I came close to stopping reading but pressed on and was able to enjoy the rest of the book and its captivating conclusion.
September 25, 2023
This is only the 2nd book that I have read by this author, but both of them are on my favorites that I have read this year. The best way to describe this novel is a modern day telling of Beauty and the Beast. Without giving any spoilers away, I will say that there is so much more to Hudson & Sonny’s story, & I loved reading about how each of the layers of their lives are slowly peeled away.
March 3, 2023
Sonny is a successful Hollywood location scout who has traveled the world, finding perfect places for movie shoots. All sounds exciting, and it is until she runs up against a roadblock.
The locals call him the Monster of Indigo Island, because they feared him, No Trespassing signs were posted. She stopped by to chat with him anyway. Would he dare call the police? One way to find out.
This was a perfect location but was it worth all the hassle. Then there were demands from her boss Whit about the island location. The pressure was on in more ways than one.
Sonny discovers the Monster of Indigo Island has a name, it’s Hudson Renfrow. Then Sonny finally has an encounter with him. She stops by a few more times. Sonny gets to know a man she never thought she would. Later, she brings him news he doesn’t want to hear and endures the consequences.
The author cleverly places the reader in Sonny’s shoes, It was fascinating to stroll around with Sonny as she is the one making sure everyone has what they need to make the shoot work. She faced a lot of heartache in her job, and she didn’t know how to stop the man creating it. She saw other females were suffering the same fate at the hands and manipulation of the director, Whit. No one wanted to talk about and/or face what was happening behind closed doors. A little bit longer, and she’d be off this shoot and away from Whitt.
So much goes on in this story from heartache, healing, grief, loss, second chances at love and the fascinating way Hudson supports himself on Indigo Island. This is a captivating story on so many levels. It’s one you won’t soon forget. If you haven’t read a book by this author, I highly recommend this book and her others.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book by the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
The locals call him the Monster of Indigo Island, because they feared him, No Trespassing signs were posted. She stopped by to chat with him anyway. Would he dare call the police? One way to find out.
This was a perfect location but was it worth all the hassle. Then there were demands from her boss Whit about the island location. The pressure was on in more ways than one.
Sonny discovers the Monster of Indigo Island has a name, it’s Hudson Renfrow. Then Sonny finally has an encounter with him. She stops by a few more times. Sonny gets to know a man she never thought she would. Later, she brings him news he doesn’t want to hear and endures the consequences.
The author cleverly places the reader in Sonny’s shoes, It was fascinating to stroll around with Sonny as she is the one making sure everyone has what they need to make the shoot work. She faced a lot of heartache in her job, and she didn’t know how to stop the man creating it. She saw other females were suffering the same fate at the hands and manipulation of the director, Whit. No one wanted to talk about and/or face what was happening behind closed doors. A little bit longer, and she’d be off this shoot and away from Whitt.
So much goes on in this story from heartache, healing, grief, loss, second chances at love and the fascinating way Hudson supports himself on Indigo Island. This is a captivating story on so many levels. It’s one you won’t soon forget. If you haven’t read a book by this author, I highly recommend this book and her others.
Disclosure of Material Connection: I requested and received a copy of this book by the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising.”
Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog https://psalm516.blogspot.com/
June 30, 2023
I honestly have really mixed feelings about this book. I _adored_ T.I. Lowe's Under the Magnolias, so had high hopes for _Indigo Isle_--but came away disappointed.
The cover is a definite plus for me--it's beautiful! And Hudson is just ... fab. A great character (and one I could probably relate to all too much as an introvert, lol; especially this side of the pandemic--I just want to be left alone, and whose idea was it to commit to all these people-y events on my calendar?! I tell ya!).
I find the MC frankly obnoxious and unlikable for a good chunk of the book. She does improve in the last third, seeing some conviction and heart change--but Mylanta. I was bothered by her ongoing disregard for Hudson's wish to be left alone; yes, it's good to be challenged to a point, but I felt she crossed that line multiple times.
And ... the MC is, also frankly, sexually assaulted several times in the book, and these experiences are detailed more than I'd like. If the book had been marketed as general fiction I would have been less surprised, and would've felt no guilt for setting it aside per my own personal content policy--it's content I don't want to see/read about, and a big part of why I read Christian fiction is to avoid that element.
Finally, I felt like the back-cover text about the book was at odds with the actual plot of the book. Its mention of a hurricane made me think the storm would play way more of a role in plot and character development, and it definitely didn't (kind of like Helm's Deep in _The Two Towers_ book [what, three pages?] versus the movie [the Ultimate Climax!]).
So--I have a hard time fully recommending this read. There are some solid elements in it, and I loved the last third of it--when we see the MC experience some real depth and change--but it took a lot of wading through other things to get there.
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
The cover is a definite plus for me--it's beautiful! And Hudson is just ... fab. A great character (and one I could probably relate to all too much as an introvert, lol; especially this side of the pandemic--I just want to be left alone, and whose idea was it to commit to all these people-y events on my calendar?! I tell ya!).
I find the MC frankly obnoxious and unlikable for a good chunk of the book. She does improve in the last third, seeing some conviction and heart change--but Mylanta. I was bothered by her ongoing disregard for Hudson's wish to be left alone; yes, it's good to be challenged to a point, but I felt she crossed that line multiple times.
And ... the MC is, also frankly, sexually assaulted several times in the book, and these experiences are detailed more than I'd like. If the book had been marketed as general fiction I would have been less surprised, and would've felt no guilt for setting it aside per my own personal content policy--it's content I don't want to see/read about, and a big part of why I read Christian fiction is to avoid that element.
Finally, I felt like the back-cover text about the book was at odds with the actual plot of the book. Its mention of a hurricane made me think the storm would play way more of a role in plot and character development, and it definitely didn't (kind of like Helm's Deep in _The Two Towers_ book [what, three pages?] versus the movie [the Ultimate Climax!]).
So--I have a hard time fully recommending this read. There are some solid elements in it, and I loved the last third of it--when we see the MC experience some real depth and change--but it took a lot of wading through other things to get there.
I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
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