Deedee Merriman loves her job running a travel agency but with turnover down and a big birthday fast approaching she’s thinking about the next chapter of her life and the changes she wants to make.
Determined to stay vibrant and keep a youthful outlook on life she invites her friends, Gina and Rosie to celebrate with her in New York, one of her favourite places and where she feels closest to her late husband, Joe.
On arrival, there’s a surprise, secret gift in store for Deedee of a small, ramshackle beach house in the beautiful Hamptons where Joe spent his childhood. But the house isn’t the only secret and discovering the truth will change everything….
About The Author
My Review
This is a heartwarming novel about grief, friendship, and self-discovery. It follows DeeDee, a widow approaching her 70th birthday, who feels lonely and uncertain about the future. To mark the milestone, she travels to New York City with her friends Rosie and Gina, reconnecting with her NYC-based circle.
The story explores how friendships can become chosen family, the process of healing after loss, and the courage it takes to embrace change. While DeeDee is portrayed as youthful and adventurous, some aspects—like her fluency in modern slang—feel unrealistic for her age. Additionally, the newer friendship between the three women could have been more developed to feel as authentic as DeeDee’s longstanding New York connections.
Though somewhat predictable, the novel is a fun and uplifting read, capturing the excitement of NYC and the importance of living fully at any stage of life.
My Rating
Link To Purchase
My Sanctuary 