Nina is at her wit’s end with her teenage daughter, Kendra. Still dealing with her own wounds of divorce, Nina hopes a change of scenery will help. She and Kendra head to the serene coastal town of Whelk’s Island to spend a restorative summer with Nina’s mother, Rosemary—bringing three generations under one roof for the first time in years. Amid the island’s charm, old wounds begin to heal, and as new friendships bloom—especially with the steady and enigmatic Fisher—light begins to break through the cracks of Nina’s tightly controlled life.
Kendra’s reckless behavior continues but Fisher’s intervention during a critical moment for Kendra sparks a sense of hope in Nina that she thought was lost. Still, change is never easy.
As the women navigate the tides of forgiveness, growing up, and letting go, healing begins and new love brings surprises. While Whelk’s Island may not hold all the answers, it has a way of reminding people that moving forward doesn’t follow a set path—it requires the bravery to start anew.
About The Author
My Review
This book is about rebuilding family, rediscovering belonging, and learning that home can be found in unexpected places. In this book, Nina and her teenage daughter Kendra retreat to Whelk’s Island after a divorce upends their lives. Amid ocean breezes, surfing lessons, and the warmth of Nina’s mother’s home, the pair slowly begin healing their strained relationship while discovering the strength of community and new love.
The novel blends heartfelt family drama with a cosy coastal atmosphere that feels comforting and escapist. Naigle excels at portraying multigenerational relationships and the quiet ways love shows up in everyday life. The island setting is vivid and inviting, adding charm and a summery glow that makes the story easy to sink into.
While the emotional themes are meaningful and often inspiring, Kendra’s perspective can feel stereotypical at times, and some humour and romantic moments land a little awkwardly. Still, characters like Fisher and Tug bring warmth and balance, delivering wisdom and sincerity that elevate the story.
My Rating
Link To Purchase
My Sanctuary 