Will she give everything up for love?
Freya Sinclair has it all. An exciting life in London, a successful career as a ceramicist and a handsome boyfriend. But when she receives a call that her father is in hospital, she drops everything to support his recovery in Skye.
On the island, Freya finds new inspiration – Coorie Castle’s craft centre is firing her creativity and she’s glad to be back with her dad again. Being so close to her schoolgirl crush, Mackenzie Burns, is an added bonus. The two share an instant connection and Freya misses London less and less.
But Freya has a boyfriend at home and now a dazzling job offer in New York. She must figure out what she truly wants, before anyone gets hurt.
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My Review
The story follows Freya, who returns to the remote Scottish island of her childhood to care for her estranged father, Vinnie, after he falls seriously ill. Their relationship is fractured, but what unfolds is a deeply emotional and believable journey of reconnection and forgiveness. Freya’s quiet strength and unwavering commitment to being there for her father—even when it means putting her own life on hold—makes her instantly lovable and easy to root for.
The father-daughter dynamic is one of the standout elements of the book. Mills handles their complex relationship with nuance and tenderness, showing the slow rebuilding of trust after years of absence. It’s touching, real, and never overdone.
The romance between Freya and Mack, a local islander, is a slow burn done right. Their connection grows gently and organically, grounded in friendship, witty banter, and emotional honesty. Mack is thoughtful, respectful, and incredibly supportive—especially as Freya untangles her complicated feelings for her ex, Hadrian. (And yes, Hadrian firmly earns a place on the “you blew it” list.)
One of the most charming aspects of the novel is the sense of community. The islanders genuinely care about each other, and the way they rally around Freya and Vinnie adds warmth and depth to the setting. The village feels like a character in its own right—comforting, familiar, and always present.
With its heartfelt emotional arcs, authentic characters, and a strong sense of place, this book is a beautiful exploration of second chances—both in family and in love. It’s cozy, poignant, and uplifting, with just the right mix of realism and romance. Overall, it is tender, slow-burning gem that lingers long after the final page.
My Rating
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