The Sanctuary Keepers by Alexandra Barber is centered on a woman named Carrie Adams. After a series of devastating events in her life, she decides to escape to the Isle of Wight in search of a quiet place to heal. She takes refuge in a charming cottage called Hideaway House, where she hopes to find solace. As she settles into her new life, she becomes part of a small, welcoming community. The story takes an interesting turn when she discovers an old tea caddy filled with secrets from the cottage's past. Through this discovery, Carrie begins to piece together the history of the house and, in the process, starts to heal from her own emotional wounds. The book is a heartwarming story about finding a new home and a new beginning. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.

This was a warm and cozy read. It is a really good book and it is the first book and has another one in the series.
This one takes place in the Isle of Wight. when Carrie ran to Hideaway House after her life has fallen apart. She discover a community of folks that become friends to her except for one. The longer Carrie stays the wiser she becomes to all the things that the ties that are binding her past to her now.

This is a hauntingly beautiful love story, with the layers of betrayal, healing and mystery. I loved this book and I know you will too.

Thank you to Alexandra Barber, NetGalley, and Storm Publishing.

This was a great book and made me want to runaway to Hideaway Cottage.
Great characters except for one. Great descriptions of this lovely area and all the gardens. The only thing I kept wondering is who were the cottages meddling but sweet couple. I would have given this 5 stars because I enjoyed it so much but since we didn’t learn who the couple was because there’s going to be a sequel & that totally annoys me, I gave it for.

Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.

This is a light gentlre story of betrayal and hope with a satisfying ending. It is set on the Isle of Wight which was lovely for me as I once new it well and I loved the depiction of the setting. It focuses on the support of a community - a very pleasant read.

Following a major disappointment in her career that has crossed over into her personal life, Carrie needs an escape. Her friend Jules recommends Hideaway Cottage on the Isle of Wight. Hideaway cottage is guarded by spirits, who interfere in a kindly way with Carrie's stay. Carrie makes new friends and immerses herself in island life very quickly. This book was an easy read, but it wasn't for me. There is a follow-up coming as this one ended with a spot of bother for the ghosts of Hideaway Cottage. I won't be reading it.

Some days defy our expectations, and the day Carrie Adams had anticipated as one of the most pivotal in her life was no exception, but not in the way she had hoped. After putting in tremendous effort to become a partner at Winterson's PR Company, Carrie was ready for the announcement that would confirm her achievement. What she didn't foresee was that the news would turn out to be vastly different—a colossal disappointment beyond words.

In hopes of offering Carrie respite, Jules shared a message from her mother about a unique opportunity. A newly refurbished cottage on the Isle of Wight, aptly named Hideaway Cottage, is in search of a test occupant before its grand opening to the public. This is the perfect chance for Carrie to escape—offering a refreshing and peaceful change of scenery, a sanctuary to heal from everything that has happened in both her personal and professional life.

This novel captivated me with its beautifully crafted and heartfelt narrative, which weaves a tapestry of emotions and transforms it into more than just a story—it's an experience. The author's prose is evocative, allowing readers to feel the weight of disappointment while also experiencing uplifting moments of discovery and renewal.

This is a deeply character-driven story. Carrie is reminded that everyone faces struggles, disappointments, and loss as a part of life. Each person discovers their own way to move forward, and the journey is rarely a straight path. The kindness of others and the act of helping one another play important roles in this process. I found the thoughtful wisdom shared by a woman named Jo particularly engaging.

The novel is not only about personal growth; it's a beacon of hope that reminds us that healing is a multi-faceted journey that unfolds over time. It is filled with insights on love, forgiveness, and self-acceptance. Despite the uncertainty that lies ahead, the novel encourages us to find joy in life's simple pleasures— be it sharing a cup of tea, tending to a flower garden, or taking a leisurely stroll with a furry companion. This heartwarming narrative invites readers to believe in the potential of new beginnings and, ultimately, to discover a life that brings us fulfillment in ways we may never have imagined.

Thank you to Alexandra Barber, Storm Publishing, and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an eARC of this novel.

What a lovely story. Carries flees her life to a small island to regain herself.
What she finds is the most precious island and people who welcome strangers into their fold.
Thoroughly enjoyed this one. Definitely recommend for anyone wanting a boost.

I just finished Sanctuary Keeper by Alexander Barber. While this book wasn’t for me, I deeply respect the author’s courage to publish such an ambitious, inventive work. The premise—two of the main characters are dead and become ghostly guides for the living—offers a fresh take and a uniquely dreamlike vibe that some readers will surely enjoy. I did find the storytelling a bit confusing and only grasped the central twist near the end. I didn’t feel a strong connection to the characters, and the narrative was easy to lose track of at times. It ends on a cliffhanger intended to draw readers into the sequel, which I won’t be reading. If you’re drawn to bold concepts and supernatural mysteries, this could be right up your alley. My overall rating is 1 star, but I applaud Barber’s willingness to put her work out into the world and invite readers to see where this unconventional path leads for fans of the genre.

Carrie has had a double whammy. Her boyfriend ditched her for the glamorous Paloma and also undercut her at work and got the promotion. Unable to bear the sympathetic words of co workers or the tirade from her ambitious parents, she flees to the Isle of Wight to Hideaway House for healing and a chance to reset.

The House is magical with its own set of benevolent ghosts, supportive neighbours and a charismatic man with his own brand of charm. The story proceeds in a nice manner despite villainous boyfriend reappearing on the scene, a series of misunderstandings resulting, but all ends well.

Descriptive of the workings of life on a remote island, the story is a relaxing one.

The Sanctuary Keepers swept me away to the enchanting Hideaway House, a charming retreat with a thatched roof and a turquoise door on the remote Isle of Wight—so vividly painted, I practically felt the sea breeze through the pages. The intertwined stories—of Carrie, seeking solace, and the echoes of the cottage’s past—are beautifully woven, creating an emotional tapestry that’s both moving and comforting.

The island setting and the house of sanctuary are utterly atmospheric. The novel’s slow, reflective rhythm allowed me to savour every moment—the teacaddy’s whispered memories, the sea’s muted roar, and the sense of time standing still. It’s a place you’ll want to hold onto long after you turn the last page.

While the direction of the plot isn’t a complete surprise—some arcs felt gently anticipated—it doesn’t diminish the book’s emotional impact. The familiarity is actually soothing, like coming home, even if you know the rooms you’ll walk into.

At times, the many Biblical and motivational quotes felt a bit over‑decorated, tipping the balance toward the spiritual in a way that occasionally pulled focus from the unfolding drama. Some characters—especially the more unlikeable ones—felt two‑dimensional, leaning into caricature rather than nuance, which was a small distraction in an otherwise immersive story.

Despite a few predictable turns and moments that felt a little too overtly spiritual, this was an atmospheric, heartfelt read. I adored the house, the island, and getting to know Carrie as she rebuilds her life. I’m eagerly anticipating the next installment in this series—I already feel a powerful draw back to Hideaway House.

What a beautiful story, set in the picturesque Isle of Wight which I know so well. This sweet story just flowed along and made me actually smell the sea and picture the beaches. I fell in love with this very quickly. My thanks to netgalley and the publisher's for giving me the opportunity to read this book in return for an honest review.

When Carrie's life crashes she lives to Hideaway House on the Isle of Wight. Rita who lives on the farm next door is so welcoming not so much Guy who who dies the garden. Loved this book

Carrie's life has crumbled. Her fiance broke off their long relationship to be with another woman. He worked in her company, where he relied on her experience and knowledge. But when it came time for a new partner to be selected, shockingly, he was chosen over Carrie, who had been the expected employee to move up. She had a meltdown at work and it was suggested that she take sometime off to gather herself.

Serendipitously, a opportunity came up to stay at a newly renovated house on an isolated island. She was asked to stay there to find any issues before the owner started to rent it to visitors. It was a lovely, comfortable place and Carrie loved the house. She also became very comfortable with the welcoming local people. She made friends easily and the man who maintained the house and gardens became a particularly interesting friend. But, Carrie feels a presence in the house. Not an evil one, but maybe more than one individual co-existing with her and watching out for her.

This is a feel-good, touching story about finding yourself, learning what truly makes you happy, and new beginnings. I really enjoyed it and I look forward to the second book.

Serendipity leads Carrie to Hideaway House when she needs it most. What she finds on the Isle of Wight is a beautiful cottage, idyllic but full of past secrets that gently haunt its rooms. It's a lovely story about recovering from betrayal and heartbreak and finding the joy in the little things. There is a supernatural element to this story which adds depth and reinforces its emotional qualities. Gently paced, it draws you into other worlds and takes you on an emotional journey of loss, love and living again. I like the characters, each with their individual stories, the sense of belonging that this story creates and the magically poignant setting.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher.

Carrie Adams needs an escape. Her relationship is over, her ex Mark has moved on with Paloma and taken the position that Carrie has been working towards for years. She really thought the job was hers, she knew she had earned it and had carried Mark through his career thus far. She concludes that hard work won't cut it, if you don't schmooze you lose.

Carries best friend and roommate, Jules, has stepped in at meltdown point and booked Carrie a much needed escape. Carrie is doubtful she will enjoy it and her sense of independence has waned over the years she spent with Mark.

As a reader, I escaped with Carrie to the Isle of Wight. Hideaway House overlooks the ocean, it's quaint and the garden is lovely and serene. Of course the township is home to many different characters and all but one make Carrie feel so welcome.

I recommend this book if you'd like to escape with Carrie to a gorgeous destination for some soul searching too. The getaway left me feeling empowered and a little bit fuzzy on the inside.

Thanks to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for this ARC in exchange for an honest review.

I look forward to revisiting the Isle in Alexandra Barber's next book.

Full of emotion, this one grabs you and doesn’t let go. It warms the heart with its supportive community vibes and strong friendships. Devoured it in one sitting.

The Sanctuary Keepers debuts today! This is a quiet novel that builds. I enjoyed the writing style, and character development. This novel features our main character, Carrie, as she takes a break from her real life, vacationing in a truly magical place. The descriptions of the countryside, flowers, buildings, etc. are exquisite, and really pulled me in. I would recommend this book for people who enjoy novels by Rosamunde Pilcher, or Maeve Binchy. Thank you to Netgalley for this free e-book in exchange for an honest review.

The Sanctuary Keepers by Alexandra Barber is an enchanting story of second chances and the healing power of finding where you truly belong.
Oh my goodness! This debut isn’t just a romance story. It’s about finding belonging, family and friends.
This novel beautifully blends atmosphere with emotion.
A phenomenal story of grief, hope, and second chances.
I can’t wait to see what Barber writes next! Because I’ll be patiently waiting!

|:: The Sanctuary Keepers
By Alexandra Barber
Chapter Three Page 23
5 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟

{ She took her cup of tea on to the deck and sat on one of the front seats, watching small sailing boats scudding past on the stiff Solent wind. It was uncanny how travelling across such a small stretch of water could really make you feel as if you were getting away from it all. It seemed strange, too, to be going away entirely on her own but it was too short notice to ask anyone to join her. Besides, Jules had said that the place would be good and she was definitely right about that. Her mind was a complete jumble.
‘You need to be by yourself,’ she'd said, as Carrie fretted about what to take, ‘and try to just be for a change. You're always doing. It's not healthy. It leads to burnout. Believe me, I know what I'm talking about. I've got new mums who are burnt out before they even have a baby because they work up until the very last minute or they take time off but won't give themselves permission to stop for a moment. Sometimes I think the whole world needs to unwind.’ }

Carrie Adams is a PR's dream. She is young, has ideas, creativity, inspires people, loves her job with a burning passion and everyone likes her and now all her hard work is paid off. She is going to be made a Partner. Finally!!
But what started off as a good day, went downhill rather fast, if she had been open to seeing the signs she would have known to keep her head and heart guarded. Because nothing hurt more than watching the lifts open to the scene before her. 

Thanks to Jules, her best friend, she found a retreat away from her wreck of a life, in Manchester, to get some clarity on situations, relationships and more importantly herself. Being with someone since you were 18 might seem like a sweet sentiment. But were you the same person you were at 18.. now? Things change.

People change. But some people stick because it's comforting and it's better than change which brings risk, reward, heartbreak, closure and/or pain. Anything can happen. Although frightened at what she would find once she was alone with her feelings, in a place she didn't know, surrounded by strangers she has never met, in a remote location with no phone signal, things that go bump in the night and the endless suppressing silence which could only mean one thing. More time to worry about what she hasn't got in her life and more time to plan on how to get it back.

Atleast.. that is what she wants.. isn't it?

I loved this story. It's going to stay with me for a very long time. And now I have just been left with so many questions.

What happens to Rita, will she be okay? Will the Major stick to his new approach to life? Will Jo ever be reunited with her loves? Why has Isaac left? Why did Eliza stay? Does Jack really love his wife? Will Sebastian ever come back? What will Carrie's parents do? And why did Irene only have a small part of the book?? Did Jules really meet 'the one'?

I need more. More Hideaway House please 😭

I started reading this book and the first thing I thought was.. It's too predictable. The beginning, the way Carrie was pushed into the storyline, everything was going for her and then it quickly turned into a nightmare. I honestly thought.. This is another of them.. ‘finding yourself’ books. But omg was I wrong! 

This is one of my favourite reads of 2025. It was so beautifully delicate that even though I had the very strong (I'm so very very sorry!) first impression, I was so rooting for Carrie to slosh the wine in her ex's face or worse, at the seductive ‘other’ woman. But she had Beth and although I wished I had a friend who would do something like that for me, plus the hurricane that was Jules blowing in and pushing resulting in Carrie deciding to go.. had me hooked.

Confession time. All I know about the Isle of Wight is.. it holds a festival every year? So reading this book was almost like a slap to the face. But a good one! Guy and Wilbur, Rita and Cassie I loved straight away. Watching Carrie knock down the Major's walls though was just beautiful. I feel the older generation is somehow muted in today's society. They fought for us and look how the world has turned out? Ungrateful.

But this story, really did make my heart spike. It was so beautifully written and I just cannot sing the authors praises enough! 

This was the first book in a very long time that actually made me cry. I am a deeply emotional person and I can get caught up in feelings, emotions and sensations. For some strange reason, this book made me very tearful. Yes, it was beautiful to see how it ended, to watch Carrie bloom in front of my eyes but I think I felt more sad for myself. As I witnessed Guy and Carrie, it made me realise that maybe this is what I have been doing with my life. Just going through the motions. 

Recently I have found my reading bug again. I don't feel myself if I don't have a book (or some sort of device I use to read online) within touching distance of a book. Unfortunately for me. I use my phone to read and review but now.. maybe I should put my phone down. Put my reviews and reading on another device. A device that has nothing on it but the one thing I love. Books.

Maybe this book really did open something up inside me that I hadn't dealt with yet. I can't tell you what it is, but something has loosened in order for me to tear. I just believe it was beautiful, simple but so expertly intricate that it has the power to move you, even if only a little nudge forward. I wish I could visit this cottage. It sounds like such a beautiful place. Especially when your social battery is low and you feel out of sorts with today's world. 

What you need is a comfy chair, a cup of tea, hot chocolate or coffee and a copy of Secret Keepers.

A huge thank you to Alexandra Barber, Storm Publishing and Netgalley for the opportunity to read and relay my honest feedback. ::|

Carrie isn’t selected for the promotion she’s been working so hard for, instead it goes to her ex and then she finds out he’s engaged. Ripe for a break from everything, she travels to the cozy, beautiful Isle of Wight. Welcomed by the warmest Queen of Hospitality, Rita, she settles right in. Right away she starts meeting the nicest locals to include Guy, who the owners of Carrie’s cottage are anxious for them to fall in love. Carrie also finds comfort sharing what’s on her heart while also connecting with her newfound friends of the Isle. The rest of the tale is ready for you to discover. Also, don’t miss the author’s letter…it’s a good one devoted to a special book. Looking forward to her next one!

Thank you Alexandra Barber, Storm Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC opportunity!