The Last Way Home by Liz Johnson - 4 stars.

While Beyond the Tides wasn't my favorite, I rather enjoyed the story of Eli and Violet. "We both have some shattered edges, but maybe God isn't afraid of our brokenness."

"Maybe God doesn't always fix what's shattered. But he can make something new and beautiful out of what's been broken."

Eli Ross is a perfect example of the prodigal son who has been away from home and his family for the past 11 years. He loses everything from his career in professional Hockey and comes home, ashamed of many mistakes made but hopeful for his family to forgive him. Violet Donaghy - no one truly knows her story or her secrets. Until Eli shows up. The two work together through family drama, helping a local girls hockey team and getting to know each other - revealing all their inner most secrets while falling in love.

Most already know I didn't love Beyond the Tides when I read it, and for the first 50-60% here, it was just average. But the moment all the secrets started to be revealed....I was crying and needing to know how Eli and Violet's story ends. These characters are broken and need each other and God to get through their painful past. I loved the ending itself.

I don't love how the romance in this series is just about their physical attraction for the majority of the story, but once they started getting to know each other, I loved them together.

Overall, enjoyed the story, being back in Prince Edward Island Shores and seeing more of Mama Potts, learning more about these beautiful families, their struggles and how the Lord works. This depicted God's forgiveness, his love, moving past your mistakes with Him right there with you and so much more.

"The truth is that life is hard. But it's easier when you have someone willing to walk through the hard times with you."

"None of us deserve to be forgiven. That's why it's called mercy."

Thank you to NetGalley and Revell for providing an advanced reader copy to honestly read and review. I will be discussing this book on my YouTube channel, BookLoverAmanda and posting a review to Amazon and Goodreads.

"Maybe God doesn't always fix what's shattered. But He can make something new and beautiful out of what's been broken."

I enjoy stories set in quaint places and I'm loving Liz Johnson's PEI stories. This story focuses on family and is very "prodigal child" themed. I enjoyed it and it was sweet but Violet's story fell a little flat for me. However, there is a lot in here about brokenness and healing and making things new from what has been shattered. There are some poignant points and I share a few good quotes below. I appreciated them a lot.

There's a crossover from another of Johnson's series and you know me. I love a crossover!! You'll have to read it to find out what that crossover is :)

This story also had a little bit of a Pride & Prejudice vibe going for it in that Violet had strong opinions about Eli before she knew him, just based on what he'd done.

I'm quite looking forward to Levi's story next!


After you experience loss - real loss - you begin to recognize it in others. You see the signs and you know the ache. Some people let loss make them bitter - angry at God, angry at the world. For others, loss builds empathy and compassion. But you have to let it. You have to trust that God will get you through. It might not feel like it today, but He will.

Admit that you can't do it on your own. When you do that, well, God moves in and starts smoothing out all those shattered and broken pieces.

Time had worn down the sharp edges like glass in the sea. The broken pieces were smoother now. No less broken, but not as painful.

*Many thanks to NetGalley for a copy of this book. All opinions are my own and a favorable review was not required.

Very interesting book! This is about Eli Ross, who returns home after being thrown out of the NHL. Also, there is Violet. They are both running for something. Violet has become a part of his family, so knows he left for the NHL when the family wanted him to stay. So when he returns, there is much friction - especially from her. For him, it was either stay where he was and live on the streets, or return home and hopefully the family will accept him back. What do these two have in common? They are both running. Some thugs from the “city” find Eli and give him an ultimatum. Will he be able to come up with the money? What about the family shop that had burned? Many more questions arise as you read this. I suggest you do, for it was very good!

Disclaimer: I accepted a copy of this ebook from the publisher through NetGalley for my honest review.

The Last Way Home became available for sale August 2, 2022.

As a girl, I adored L. M. Montgomery's books. When the description of this book came across my path as a book set on modern-day Prince Edward Island, I jumped at the chance to read it. This book is the second in the series. While I have not read the first book, I did not issue with following the storyline.

The book centers around two people, Eli, an ex-NHL player who has returned home to the island after an eleven-year absence. He has come home having nowhere else to turn due mysterious circumstances that have gotten him kicked out of the NHL. Then there is Violet, with an equally mysterious past, who has made her home with Eli's family. She is desperate to protect them from any further damage Eli might cause. When a fire destroys part of the family business, they are thrown together to save it. Will they overcome their past to heal?

I thoroughly enjoyed reading about what life is like on Prince Edward Island, an island whose life is shaped by the tourist industry. However, the plot was predictable. It was also way too focused on describing Eli's physique. I grew tired on the numerous descriptions of his muscles as Violet tries to resist falling in love with him. Lightly sprinkled in are themes of forgiveness and restoration, but it's hard to focus on them.

If you want a clean romance novel, this book is for you. I, however, was disappointed in the book for its over-emphasis on the romance while the rest of the story felt like filler. I received a copy of the book as part of the Revell Reads blogger team.

When Eli Ross left Prince Edward Island to join the NHL, he left a broken family behind. More than a decade later, he's broke and headed home to an uncertain welcome. He wants to make things right with the family he wronged, but his mom's business partner isn't making it easy. To top it off, the coaching job he's accepted turns out to be far more difficult than he anticipated.

For years, Violet Donaghy has put everything she had into making Eli's mom's ceramics shop a success, and she's not eager to forgive the man who hurt the family that's taken her in as one of their own. But when the kiln at the shop starts a fire that nearly destroys the studio, she'll need all the help she can get to save the business and their summer income.

Can these two strong-willed people come together to mend the broken pieces of the Ross family? Or will the ghosts of the past continue to haunt them?

This amazing story supercharged me. That’s says something. For one, I am motivated enough to read her other books. The entire read was a heart-pounding impact on me.

Eli left home more than 10 years ago to pursue his dream of playing in the NHL - deserting his family in the process. Now, he's broke, out of a job and in need of money, fast. Desperation drives him back home, but can he ever come to feel that he belongs? Violet came to Prince Edward Island to escape her past, but everything rises to the surface again when she blames herself for a fire that destroys her adopted family's pottery studio - and she's not inclined to open up to anyone, least of all the prodigal son of the family who returns out of the blue. But as the two work together to rebuild after the fire, can they help each other learn the true meaning of home - and family?

I loved the first book in the series and was curious to see what would happen with long-lost Eli. Well, what happened made for a heart-warming, deeply satisfying story, as two lost souls find each other and together find forgiveness and family. With an interesting setting, characters I very quickly learned to care about, an inspiring message and a story that held me riveted from page 1, this was a great read that was very hard to put down. I'd like to be able to say what I liked best about it, but the truth is that I loved the whole thing. Note that while the series shares characters, each book is completely independent - but I'm very eager to see what happens with Levi. All in all, highly recommended.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

What a beautiful story demonstrating relentless love and forgiveness! It shows the love and strength of family and community if we only open ourselves to it.

We are transported back to beautiful Prince Edward Island where the oldest son of the Ross family, Eli, has suddenly returned home after a long absence. After a discharge from the NHL, Eli is hesitant to return to his family not knowing what type of welcome he will receive. He certainly doesn’t expect to be put on notice by Violet Donaghy who has become like family to Mama Potts and his brothers while he has been away.

After a fire destroys Mama Potts and Violet’s shop, Eli and Violet find themselves thrown together to try to rebuild in time for the tourist season. Putting aside their differences for the common goal, they both soon realize they each need to deal with their pasts to move forward.

A sweet, emotional story that resonates with you! Loving this series and anxiously awaiting the next book with Levi’s story.

I was given a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

Loved it. A sweet romance filled with secrets and heart ache. Many tender moments. Smiles and tears. I am eager to read the story of the remaining brother. Thanks to the publisher for providing a copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.

The Last Way Home is a story about life's choices, be they good or bad. This is a story of secrets hidden in the past, forgiveness, redemption, second chances, and especially family. It tells us that through the hardships in life, if family sticks together, they can conquer almost anything.

Thanks to Revell Publishing and Netgalley for the opportunity to read this advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest opinion.

The Last Way Home by Liz Johnson was a sweet book. I enjoyed the story. Hope to read more by this author.

Hockey, a little Canadian town, a small pottery shop and beloved characters make this well-paced tale addictive. Eli’s struggle with his disgrace from the NHL is real, palpable and expertly revealed for the perfect ending and revolution. Ditto with Violet’s story. Reminds us of the importance of finding joy in your life and asking others for help when you’re stuck. I can’t wait to read more from Liz Johnson!

The Last Way Home, by Liz Johnson, is a prodigal son retelling, set on the scenic Prince Edward Island. This is the story of Eli, a former NHL player who returns home, disgraced, after eleven years away, and Violet, a local artist who’s studio burns down and has a troubled past she’s struggling to overcome. Both have suffered trauma and heartache. Both feel a bit lost and desperate.

The Last Way Home is the story of God’s good plan for each of our lives. It’s a story of second chances and hope restored. It is impactful, sweet, inspiring and speaks truth into the ordinariness of life and it’s hardships. It’s a story of mercy, forgiveness, restoration and purpose. Liz Johnson is a masterful storyteller, and I highly recommend this novel.

I was so anxious to devour another Liz Johnson Prince Edward Island novel—verdant, lush home of the delightful Anne of Green Gables—with all of its small hometown feels...replete with antique, pottery, and bakery shops oozing with delicious treats, that I overlooked a very important detail in the book description!

The hero, Eli Ross, played for the NHL as in National Hockey League. Way out of my comfort zone...my motto always being "I went to a fight and a hockey game broke out." Definitely not a hockey fan, but Liz Johnson made it work and I found myself totally immersed in this electrifying sport!

It started out a little slow for me and I found it difficult to connect with the heroine, Violet, as she was angry with Eli for something that was frankly none of her business. It wasn't long, however, before I began to enjoy their humorous quips, banter, and obvious chemistry...my eyes literally filling with tears as I learned of Violet's heartbreaking secret from the past. 😢

A poignant story of forgiveness, sacrifices, and broken lives finding redemption and healing—be sure to put 'The Last Way Home' at the top of your wishlist!

"All you have to do is ask Him for help. Admit that you can’t do it on your own. When you do that, well, God moves in and starts smoothing out all those shattered and broken pieces. He’s just waiting for you to ask Him to fix them. Could it really be that easy?" (Quote from The Last Way Home)

*I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley and was under no obligation to write a favorable review.*

Can you go home again? Well, we are there as the famous NHL player son comes home! Will he be welcomed?

Set in Canada and in PEI, we are with Eli's Mom and her non-daughter Violet in their shop as they make pottery, and then, disaster comes.

This story has a lot of family dynamics and you are kept guessing almost to the end, how things are going to turn out.

Yes, there is a strong theme of forgiveness, and a lot of it goes to forgiving oneself.

The author gives us a bit of sweet romance, along with family love, although there is one member of this family that is not there for the others, and the cause of much of the troubles and pain that exists!

This read quickly became a page turner, and you will be looking for answers! I am looking forward to the next book in this series!

I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Revell, and was not required to give a positive review.

Former NHL star, Eli, and mysterious pottery artist, Violet, each have a decade of secrets and trauma. When Eli has the audacity to come home to PEI Violet is ready to do battle with the man who broke his mother's heart and crushed his family. A devastating fire at the pottery shop puts her on shaky ground as to what to say or do that will stop him from helping her and ultimately, his mother, who co-owns the business.
This is a story about owning the past, seeking forgiveness and putting broken pieces of lives, even families, back together.
I liked the characters very much. The problems were heartbreaking and realistic. The love of family or a chosen family of sorts is highlighted as to its secure and supportive importance. I appreciated the sweet romance and the vulnerability of the two scarred hearts involved.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for my advanced reader's copy. My unsolicited opinion is that this is a nice summer read for those who enjoy a clean romance with a solid story involving all the characters. I want to read the next book too.

I love the setting of this novel (though I might be biased). Prince Edward Island, Canada is a beautiful location for this sweet romance. Readers get a feel for the island as the descriptions recreate the seaside town, right down to the smells and sounds.
This loosely based prodigal son story gives readers all the feels and one can`t help but want things to turn around for Eli Ross. When the truth is finally revealed at the end of the story, readers are treated to a different perspective of who Eli really is.
Violet Donaghy is an unusual character – fiercely protective of her adopted family, yet she`s estranged from her own family (of her own choosing). As the story unfolds, I found it difficult to relate to her choices, but still enjoyed her journey with Eli.
There`s a strong faith thread that pulls the characters through their individual journeys.
If you`re looking for a light, summer romance, try The Last Way Home by Liz Johnson.
I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are my own.

I received an arc from NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.

Whew Eli and Violet's story is one of a kind. Eli leaves his hometown on uncertain terms but returns after his hockey career is ended because of some bad decisions.

He first meets Violet and there is tension right from the start between them. As they get to know each other and open up about their past mistakes they grow closer.

Can they stick together through thick and thin? Even when New York Comes calling?

The Last Way Home is a delightful, sweet and inspiring modern romance. Liz Johnson has a special gift for crafting characters you are not likely to forget. The main characters are Eli Ross a former NHL hockey player and Violet a local artist that works with Eli's mom in Mama's Potts shop. Both Eli and Violet are prodigal sons in their own way, needing to find their way home. Each has their own troubling secrets. I love this authors voice, She inspires me with her incredible storytelling. I believe my favorite part of this novel is a faith thread that runs throughout the book. This is a book I wish I could give a 5+ score.

I want to thank Revell Publishers and NetGalley for allowing me to read and review this book. The opinions expressed in this review are totally my own.

Eli Ross returns to Prince Edward Island, Canada, a broken man. He left years ago at the same time his father left the family. He pursued a career as a professional hockey player and was quite successful and famous. Now he is back and no longer employed. Violet Donaghy, with a painful history of her own has become Eli's mother's partner in her ceramics business and she is suspicious of Eli's motives in returning after all this time, as are his two brothers. What develops is an interesting story with interesting characters. Well worth the read!

I have voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book that I received from NetGalley. All views expressed are only my own honest opinion.

I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review....
Sweet story and characters.
Looking forward to reading more books by this author..