The Bright Spot

by Jill Shalvis

[Nadz@Totally Addicted to Reading]

I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

Shalvis takes her readers back to Sunrise Cove in her newest release, The Bright Spot. Although part of a series, the story works well as a stand-alone. None of the stories in the series are related. The one thing they have in common is the location. However, after reading this instalment, you’re going to want to read the previous books in the series. The Bright Spot delivered a feel-good story that can lighten the heart and mind even at the darkest and gloomiest of times.

This latest instalment of the Sunrise Cove series introduces readers to Luna. Adopted as a child, Luna never gelled with her adoptive parents. They loved each other, but Luna never fit into the mould they created for her. She forged her own path, which led to her current position as the manager of the Apple Ridge Farm. The people she works with are more like family than employees. Her BFF, Willow, her ex-boyfriend Chef and his partner Milo and her grandmother.

Luna pours her heart and soul into the farm, and she believes that all is well. However, when the owner of the farm, Silas, died and left her with a fifty percent stake, she discovers that not all is well despite all the hard work she put into managing the farm.

Jameson Hayes, an investment manager, inherited the other fifty percent. He came to Sunrise Cove as per Silas’s request to guide Luna in whatever decision she made regarding the farm. Not only was his presence helpful, in turning the farm around, it also helped Luna to be more open about her feelings.

Without a doubt, these two shared an undeniable chemistry from the get-go. However, past issues endangered their relationship. Luna’s belief that she was not enough proved to be the biggest obstacle. A feeling which was further compounded by a recent discovery regarding her biological family. This overwhelming feeling prevented her from recognizing that everyone she came in contact with admired and loved her. So much so, they willingly supported her efforts in rescuing the farm.

Jameson also experienced his share of blows in the past. Although he had someone who believed in him and helped to secure a stable future, he led a solitary life. Spending time at the farm proved a game-changer, as he recognized that there was more to life than maths and spreadsheets. Not only did he feel accepted, he gained a family. Also, he played a major role in helping Luna see she was definitely more than enough.

As with all the previous books in the series, The Bright Spot delivered not one but two storylines. The secondary storyline focused on Willow, Luna’s best friend. Yes! It’s understandable that she had a lot to deal with …. The uncertainties surrounding her marriage and her future goals. The dreams she had as a young girl did not materialize, and so she considered herself a failure. These feelings spilled over into her marriage. Also, the lack of communication between her and her spouse further compounded the situation. However, from her actions, one would have thought she didn’t achieve something. Honestly, Willow grated on my nerves. I found her actions annoying and selfish. Eventually, she realised dreams can change directions, and she just needs to embrace the goals achieved thus far, even if they differ from what she envisioned.

The return to Sunrise Cove proved a delight. The Bright Spot was a heart-warming story filled with humour and romance.

This review was originally posted on Totally Addicted to Reading