The Sisters at the Last House Before the Sea by Liz Eeles

Back of the Book

Sitting by the window with views of the shining sea, a white-haired woman seals an envelope with trembling hands and thinks of her grandchildren – two sisters who haven’t spoken for years. Will her final message bring them back together?

Ever since her sister Caitlin left the village of Heaven’s Cove, Isla has cared for their beloved grandmother Jessie in her cosy red-brick cottage by the sea. Now, heartbroken after Jessie’s death, Isla hopes to bond again with her sister. Until Caitlin insists she wants to sell the cottage they spent their childhood in.

But their grandmother, who always had a twinkle in her eye, had other plans. At her will reading the sisters are handed an envelope containing a cryptic riddle in Jessie’s handwriting. Certain their grandmother, who loved puzzles and crosswords, wanted them to solve it together, Isla begs Caitlin for more time.

Then Isla meets tall, brooding Ben in the village, come from America seeking answers about his own family history. One of his ancestors was close to a relative of Jessie’s… did Jessie mean for them to meet?

As Ben and Isla walk together on the wild Devon beaches, they discover a heartbreaking generations-old story of a woman who chose her family over true love. But Isla and Caitlin are no closer to solving their grandmother’s riddle: and when Caitlin finally shares a shocking secret about her life back in London, selling their grandmother’s home seems the only way forward.

Without their grandmother to guide them, will the sisters ever rediscover the meaning of family? Or will Isla be forced to leave Ben, and Heaven’s Cove behind forever?

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

“The Sisters at the Last House Before the Sea” by Liz Eeles is a heartwarming tale of family, love, and the enduring bonds that tie us together. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Heaven’s Cove, the story unfolds as Isla and Caitlin, two estranged sisters, grapple with the legacy left behind by their beloved grandmother, Jessie.

Eeles skillfully weaves a narrative that is both poignant and engaging, drawing readers into the quaint village and the lives of its inhabitants. The descriptive prose paints a vivid picture of the sea, the red-brick cottage, and the wild Devon beaches, creating a rich and immersive reading experience.

The characters are well-developed, each with their own quirks and flaws that make them relatable and endearing. Isla’s devotion to her grandmother and Caitlin’s determination to forge her own path add depth to their relationship, making it easy for readers to empathise with their struggles and triumphs.

The central mystery, presented in the form of a cryptic riddle from Jessie, adds an intriguing layer to the narrative. As the sisters attempt to unravel the puzzle, the story takes unexpected twists and turns, keeping the reader eagerly turning the pages. The incorporation of Ben, a mysterious newcomer with ties to Jessie’s past, adds a touch of romance and further layers to the overarching plot.

Eeles’ writing style is fluid and engaging, with a perfect balance of emotion and humour. The dialogue is authentic, and the pacing is well-managed, ensuring that the story unfolds at a satisfying rhythm. The exploration of themes such as family, love, and the choices we make resonates deeply, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

While the plot is at times predictable, Eeles infuses enough freshness and nuance to keep the story captivating. The resolution of the central mystery is gratifying, providing a sense of closure that leaves the reader with a warm and fuzzy feeling.

In conclusion, “The Sisters at the Last House Before the Sea” is a delightful read that tugs at the heartstrings. Liz Eeles has crafted a tale that celebrates the importance of family and the enduring power of love. With its charming setting, well-drawn characters, and a touch of mystery, this book is a perfect choice for those seeking a feel-good story with a dash of intrigue.

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