Simona's Corner of Dreams: First Time in Forever

Original UK Cover

My own copy

The blurb:

Windswept, isolated and ruggedly beautiful, Puffin Island is a haven for day-trippers and daydreamers alike. But this charming community has a way of bringing people together in the most unexpected ways…

It's been a summer of firsts for Emily Donovan. From becoming a stand-in mom to her niece Lizzie to arriving on Puffin Island, her life has become virtually unrecognizable. Between desperately safeguarding Lizzie and her overwhelming fear of the ocean—which surrounds her everywhere she goes!—Emily has lost count of the number of "just breathe" pep talks she's given herself. And that's before charismatic local yacht club owner Ryan Cooper kisses her…

Ryan knows all about secrets. And it's clear that newcomer Emily—with her haunted eyes and the little girl she won't let out of her sight—is hiding from something besides the crazy chemistry between them. So Ryan decides he's going to make it his personal mission to help her unwind and enjoy the sparks! But can Puffin Island work its magic on Emily and get her to take the biggest leap of trust of all—putting her heart in someone else's hands?

My Opinion:

*Book provided by the publisher on NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

I loved the beginning of this book, it had something touching, gripping and emotional and it took me in immediately.

It’s a wonderful way to get to know Emily and the whole situation she is in. I could relate to her from the start and I just wanted to be there for her.

Emily goes to Puffin Island with her niece Lizzy for a fresh start. This whole situation is totally new for Emily, caring for a child and going to a place close to her fears. She is afraid of the water. We learn a lot about her past and her childhood in a very moving way and described beautifully. The book describes Emily's journey of learning to be courageous.

Lizzy is so adorable and sweet, she brought this fresh air into the story and I just wanted to hug her all the time.

Emily was kind of sent on a journey to accept everything and build up a relationship with Lizzy. It was great reading how that all developed. The scenes were sweet, magical and also very emotional. It was about overcoming different fears and finally moving on.

Emily has a connection to the island, with her friends Skylar and Brittany, having the possibility to live in Brittany’s grandmother’s cottage. Their friendship is really something special, I loved how they looked out for each other and were there for each other throughout the story.

Now, Ryan – book boyfriend alarm! He was great!!! He started caring for these two ladies from the start, doing everything possible to help them and make them feel comfortable. Lizzy had so much fun with him and it was so cute to see Lizzy’s always wanting him there.

Emily and Ryan had instant chemistry and soon Emily told him everything – about her sister, her past, about Lizzy and her fears. But can she really trust him?! His past and fears also played a significant role in this story.

They had to go through a lot to realize what they really want in life and especially connected to love!

What they had was really special and god that connection! Their passionate scenes were incredible and so believable!

Puffin Island is such a amazing place, I loved reading about the scenery and the surroundings. Sarah described it all with such delicacy and details, marvellous! It sounds so peaceful, quiet and just fabulous! The people are wonderful, they each shared a special connection with either Ryan or Emily. Such a lovely bunch of people.

The storyline has such a soft flow and the characters are perfectly well lined out. The change between Emily’s and Ryan’s perspective gave a great change and insight to their personalities.

This story is brilliant!!! Sarah you took this story to a whole new level with your beautiful writing! The book has it all: love, passion, friendship, family, emotions and authenticity!!! A MASTERPIECE!!!

I can't wait to read more books of this series!!!!!!!!

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