Sand, Sea and Second Chances by Catherine Michaels
A Gull Island Romance Book 1
Rating: 4/5
Release Date: 17 July 2024

Thirty-something Kate Fiore arrives on Gull Island, North Carolina, hoping for a fresh start after a divorce and job loss. She plans to enjoy a tranquil summer working a marketing job at the aquarium. However, she is met with resistance from Luke McAllister, a protective islander skeptical of city newcomers.

Despite their initial clashes, Kate and Luke are forced to collaborate on a community fundraiser and sea turtle patrol, leading to intense interactions and growing chemistry. As they work together, Kate appreciates Luke's environmental passion, and Luke softens towards her.

Their feelings deepen, but with Kate's summer contract nearing its end, Luke worries that letting her go might mean losing his chance at lasting happiness.

This dual POV romance novel delicately unfolds the story of Luke and Kate, whose relationship simmers slowly as they navigate their own personal challenges. Kate arrives on Gull Island carrying the weight of past heartbreaks, her trust bruised and her heart cautious. Luke, portrayed as a pillar of patience and empathy, gradually breaks through Kate's defences with his unwavering support for her ambitions and understanding of her emotional scars.

Initially hesitant to embrace Kate, Luke surprises himself by becoming more open and receptive to her presence in his life. His transformation from guarded islander to a caring companion is portrayed with genuine tenderness, highlighting his depth as a character.

As their bond deepens, the novel portrays their evolving connection as a heartwarming journey of mutual healing and discovery. Moments where they confront their insecurities and fears together resonate with emotional depth, moving the reader to empathise with their vulnerabilities and root for their happiness.

Set against the picturesque backdrop of Gull Island, the novel paints a vivid picture of a charming beach town where the natural beauty mirrors the characters' emotional landscapes. The descriptive prose captures the essence of the island's serene beaches, quaint cottages, and bustling community, providing a perfect escape for readers seeking a summer romance.

Overall, this close-door romance is a captivating read that not only offers a compelling love story but also a poignant exploration of resilience, forgiveness, and the transformative power of love. It's a book that touches the heart, leaving a lasting impression.

I highly recommend it for anyone in search of a deeply satisfying romantic escape.

Thank you so much to NetGalley, Victory Editing NetGalley Co-Op, and the author, Catherine Michaels, for providing me with a copy of this book in exchange for an honest and fair review.

I thought long and hard about this book all week. I'm so glad that I finally downloaded it.
It is a cute book that made me laugh in some places. I loved Kate, Luke and May.
May being my favorite supporting character. Her kindness towards Kate was a win win with me.
I hated to say goodbye to my new friends. I wish they were my real life friends.
I do wish that people would leave other people alone. There wasn't anything wrong in a certain scene. Even animals can't be left alone geeze!!
I finished this book late last night because I couldn't put it down.
I love second chance romances. That's why I chose this book. It was well worth the read. I really loved this book.
5 stars for an entertaining read that made me smile. I highly recommend
My thanks for a copy of this book. I was NOT required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

Kate arrives at Gull Island for the summer to start anew after losing her job and divorcing her husband. At Gull Island, she finds a small close-knit community that is fighting to preserve their coasts from luxury condo development. One of these people is Luke, who detests "city people" (like Kate) and initially, he's a little cold to her. But they gradually warm up to each other as they are forced to work together on a project. As they grow closer, the looming date of Kate's departure back to the city threatens the future of their new relationship.

This was a dual POV, closed-door romance novel. Luke and Kate's relationship was kind of a slow burn, just because Kate was still working to open herself up to a new person after being traumatized by her last relationship. I really liked Luke's character - he was so patient and understanding of Kate and was supportive of Kate's ideas and career. Despite his initial reluctance to embrace Kate, he surprisingly became very open, and he was clearly a very caring and kind person. Their relationship was so heartwarming, and I definitely teared up a bit when they wrestle with their future together.

The descriptions of Gull Island are beautifully written - it seems to be a gorgeous setting for this book. I really enjoyed this read and would recommend it to anyone who's looking for a summer read and would like to escape to a beautiful beach town.

Thank you to Cool Breeze Books and NetGalley for the ARC!

Title: Sand, Sea, & Second Chances by Catherine Michaels

A Gull Island Romance, Book 1

Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️Stars

Release date: July 17th 2024

This heartwarming, closed door romance is a slow-burn delight, perfect for a summer read that will leave you smiling long after you’ve turned the last page.

Thirty-something Kate Fiore is ready for a fresh start after a painful divorce and a job loss. Her new marketing contract at the aquarium on Gull Island, North Carolina, seems like the perfect opportunity to embrace a tranquil coastal life. However, her arrival is anything but smooth, greeted by a locked door and Luke McAllister, a fiercely protective islander wary of city newcomers.

Luke is set in his ways and not keen on having an outsider disrupt the island’s way of life. But circumstances force them to work together on a local fundraiser and sea turtle patrol. As they clash and argue, their undeniable chemistry starts to melt their defences, leading to explosive encounters and unexpected feelings.

What I Loved:

- Engaging Characters: Kate and Luke are wonderfully crafted characters with rich backstories. Kate’s determination to start anew and Luke’s loyalty to his community make them relatable and endearing. Their fiery exchanges and gradual understanding of each other add depth to their relationship and make the story interesting throughout.

- Picturesque Setting: Gull Island’s charm is captured beautifully, making you feel like you’re right there with the characters. The coastal scenery, moonlit turtle patrols, and close-knit community create an idyllic backdrop for the story. I could just image myself on Gull island!

- Slow-Burn Romance: The romance between Kate and Luke is a delightful slow burn. Their sizzling arguments and tender moments build up the tension perfectly, making their eventual connection all the more satisfying. The chemistry is palpable, even in a closed-door romance.

- Heartwarming Themes: The novel explores themes of second chances, healing, and community. Kate’s journey of self-discovery and Luke’s gradual acceptance of change are inspiring and heartwarming. The story emphasises the transformative power of love and the importance of finding where you truly belong.

- Quirky Supporting Characters: The island’s residents add a layer of charm and humour to the story. Their quirks and warmth make Gull Island feel like a real place, and their interactions with Kate and Luke enhance the overall narrative.


"Sand, Sea, & Second Chances" is a captivating novel that beautifully blends romance, humour, and heartfelt moments.

Catherine Michaels has crafted a story that will make you laugh and root for Kate and Luke’s happily ever after. This closed-door romance is perfect for anyone who loves lots of sizzle without explicit content. The setting also makes this an amazing summer/ beach read.

Thank you to The Publisher Victory Editing NetGalley Co-op | Cool Breeze Books ,The Author Catherine Michaels & NetGalley for an advanced reader copy (ARC) in exchange for my honest review.

Yet another great romcom for the summer of 2024. I loved this book! I can’t say enough good things about it!