When western novelist Sadie Goodwin must pen a romance novel to rescue her lackluster sales, there’s only one tiny problem: she’s never been in love.
Desperate to salvage her career, Sadie accepts an invitation to hole up at her friend’s beach duplex for the summer and devote herself to this confounding genre. After all, where better to witness love than on the beautiful South Carolina shore?
But Sadie soon finds many ways to procrastinate the dreaded task—like getting to know the beach regulars and installing a Little Free Library on the property. She even attempts conversation with Sam Ford, the frustratingly stubborn neighbor on the other side of the duplex. But things take an unexpected turn when Sadie finds inside her library an abandoned novel with a secret compartment—and a beautiful engagement ring tucked inside.
Suddenly, locating the ring’s owner becomes the perfect way to put off writing that romance. Sadie draws a reluctant Sam into her mission. And as the two close in on an answer to the mysterious proposal, she discovers a tender side to him. She begins to wonder if he just might make the perfect hero for her romance novel—or maybe even her heart.
Published Date: 21 March 2023
My Review
Sadie, a western genre writer, faces a challenge when her contract ends and she’s prompted to write romance. Having never experienced love, she’s clueless about this new endeavor. To seek inspiration, she retreats to a quaint beach house. Her neighboring duplex resident, Sam, still healing from a breakup a year prior, becomes an unexpected muse. Their connection deepens when Sadie needs help with an engagement ring situation, and in exchange, Sam wants her to accompany him to his cousin’s (and ex’s) wedding. Their chemistry is undeniable.
Sadie’s lively and optimistic nature is refreshing. Although inexperienced in love, this innocence enables her to form a genuine bond with Sam before romance blossoms. Sam’s personal struggles add layers to his character. A subtle subplot about the engagement ring adds intrigue. Witnessing Sadie’s integration into the coastal community is heartwarming.
My Rating
My Sanctuary 