Lynn
Written on Apr 4, 2020
Jasmine Delon heads to Ireland to stay with her estranged mother, Sally. She's fleeing Paris after her fiancé, Damien deceived and cheated her out of her savings. It's a bitter-sweet journey but made better when she meets up with her best friend from her Parisian school, Aiden Daley. She's not seen him since their graduation and now he's working as a chef in the town's newly opened restaurant. They quickly become reacquainted, but it's Aiden's boss, Connor Flanagan who catches her eye.
Set in the beautiful West of Ireland, the author fills the pages with descriptions of the dramatic rugged coastline of County Kerry. The focus is the relationship between Jasmine and her mother, Sally. However, both women are distracted by the men in their lives…
For a short while, I did wonder if this novel was going to involve a love triangle (it doesn't) as two men show an interest in Jasmine. It's clear from the beginning who is most suited to her, but love is blind and not everyone can see the right way to their own heart. There's also the fallout from Paris. Not surprisingly it catches her up in the sleepy Irish village and is swiftly dealt with. Playing the role of a former spoilt child, Jasmine shows her immaturity. It shines through in her attitude making her look shallow and critical. However, despite this, you can see why she is the woman she became after we learn about her background and upbringing. Thankfully, when the truths from the past are revealed, She's thrilled with the outcome, not only for herself but her parents too.
A large cast of eclectic secondary characters blends well into the narrative. For those already familiar with the series, they'll enjoy seeing favourites again and a glimpse or two of how life has treated them. I read this as standalone and didn't feel I lacked any understanding by not reading the previous three novels. Of course, if you're like me, you'll want to catch-up and read their stories too.
3.5 stars
***arc generously received courtesy of the publisher, Bookouture via NetGalley***