Sometimes love hurts–and sometimes it can heal in the most unexpected way.Camden Grayson loves her challenging career, but the rest of her life could use some improvement. “Moving on” is Cam’s mantra. But there’s a difference, her two sisters insist, between one who moves on . . . and one who keeps moving. Cam’s full-throttle life skids to a stop when her father buys a remote island off the … island off the coast of Maine. Paul Grayson has a dream to breathe new life into the island–a dream that includes reuniting his estranged daughters. Certain Dad has lost his mind, the three sisters rush to the island. To Cam’s surprise, the slow pace of island life appeals to her, along with the locals–and one in particular. Seth Walker, the scruffy island schoolteacher harbors more than a few surprises.
With On a Summer Tide, bestselling author Suzanne Woods Fisher begins a brand-new contemporary romance series that is sure to delight her fans and draw new ones.
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Mar 31, 2020 · edit
it was amazing
bookshelves: contemporary-romance
Recommended to Shirley by: Amazon Prime
I haven’t read a book by Suzanne Woods Fisher in a while. On a Summer Tide had me asking myself why I hadn’t. This book completely drew me in like a magnet. I loved the characters that made up this story. Three Sisters, each with their own emotional issues, getting on each other’s nerves, refusing to openly discuss their late mother and avoiding each other as much as possible. A father that spent most of their growing up years working a job that took him away from home most the time. The book had a rollercoaster of emotions. I found myself laughing, crying and captivated by this story.
Paul Grayson had loved his career as a sports announcer and had advanced to the top of his field. But laryngitis had robbed him of his rich baritone voice and left him on the sidelines with only a raspy whisper. Forced to retire early he made the decision to buy a summer camp for kids and ended up with 51 percent of an Island. His goal was to include his daughters in this adventure, hoping to bring the family closer together. His daughters where convinced that he had dementia.
Camden Grayson was the oldest daughter. Well educated in the field of technology. Owned her own business at twenty eight. Single parent and no time for romance. Travelled a lot for business.
Madison Grayson was the middle daughter. Studied to become a marriage and family therapist, now working to become certified. Single but engaged to Tre, a mommy’s boy . Annualized her nephew, sisters and Dad to the point of everyone wanting to leave the room whenever she walked in.
Blaine was a nineteen year old gal attending university without a major. Just couldn’t decide what career she wanted to study and get a degree in. No boyfriend but a best friend who would like to be a little more than a friend.
Cooper Grayson was a seven and a half year old boy and adopted son of Chamden. He was very intelligent for his age but had anxiety disorders and insecurities. He had a fascination with string that drove his teachers and family to despair. He had phobias about dogs and certain types of food and games involving any type of balls.
These are the main characters but there are many other secondary ones in this book that are a special part of the story. The author did a great job with this well researched story and I highly recommend it to readers who enjoy contemporary romance fiction . I can only give it five Stars but it truly deserves more.
I downloaded a Kindle ebook copy of this book from the Amazon Prime Members lending library. A favorable review was not requested. All opinions expressed are my own.
Outstanding story from master storyteller, Suzanne Woods Fisher, On a Summer Tide begins a new series, Three Sisters Island. From the front cover through to the back cover, I was entranced by the story of three sisters and a father determined to honor his late wife’s dream.
Without notice, Paul Grayson sells the family home and buys a small remote island off the coast of Maine. The sisters, who do not get along by any stretch of imagination, are stunned and angry by their father’s decision. The island is not only remote, but its residents are struggling to remain afloat; Paul Grayson plans to restore the island not only to its previous charm, but to increase the island’s enticing beauty.
But that is not all Paul Grayson wants to restore, his deeper desire is to see his daughter’s estranged relationship healed. Will the quiet and charming island restore his daughters? Will a father’s earnest prayers, hard work and tenacity prove to be successful?
Thoroughly entranced by everything about this story, I highly recommend On A Summer Tide
This has to be my favorite story from this author. It is easy to fall in love with the Grayson family as the author brings them to life. Each member has a gift that they have not used to their potential. After a tragedy that shakes the family to its core, Paul Grayson announces to his three daughters he has sold the house. While they are trying grasp that , he also tells them he has bought a place off the coast of Maine. The camp he purchased has sweet memories for him. It is not exactly booming with business and the camp is so rundown that I would be afraid to stay one night there.
It is no surprise that his daughters’ think he is crazy, had a stroke or just getting senile. I was very intrigued by the problem he had with his voice. He seems to have become hoarse overtime and never gained his strong baritone voice back. I am hoping in the next book we find out more about his condition.
I won’t go into many details, because the story is written so well, you must read it for yourself. I loved his daughters’ and how each one was trying to find their niche in life. One of their problems is not being honest and open with each other. Place close attention to the name change of the island as you read the story of a family in need of healing.
There are some great local people on the island that was interesting to get to know. I have to say my favorite character is Peg. She has been around the island forever and is the first to welcome the family to the island. Poor Peg can’t cook yet she has a diner that barely stays afloat. She has asked God to help revitalize the island and boy does he answer her prayer. Not everyone is happy to see the Graysons’ especially the self appointed mayor. He is a very snotty, mean person who struts around the island like he is king.
The story center around a family that decides to take on a big task to fulfill a dream. I loved how the author writes with deep emotion and shows the struggles each person goes through. There is a faith element in the book that I thought was just the right amount to emphasize how we need to look to Him for guidance and strength. The three sisters are different but still looking for a bond to form between each other. I can say without a doubt this will be a story that will touch your soul and find you praying for your own family to become stronger in faith and closer to each other.
There is a special boy in the story that captured my heart. He is a smart boy but desperate for stability. With each page I read , I found myself wanting to live on the island and embrace the beautiful scenery that makes the island so inviting. There is a mystery brewing about why the lobsters have disappeared from the island that was very intriguing. Don’t miss this story about a family that struggles to share their feelings and how an island brought them back together.
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Right away I’m going to say I am so looking forward to book two in this series! I thoroughly enjoyed this book and can’t wait to see what happens next on Three Sisters Island. It can go in so many directions.
Author Suzanne Woods Fisher had great descriptions of the island. So much so that I’d love to visit. Her characters are not only well-developed but down right delightful. I mean, who doesn’t love a scruffy, lumberjack style teacher who understands what a true education is?
This family has some issues but their love for each other is apparent. And they willingly sacrifice much. If you’re looking for a fun, quirky read with serious undertones then I suggest this book.
I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review.
If you’ve never read Suzanne Woods Fisher, this is the book to jumpstart your acquaintanceship (and likely a long friendship) with her books. She writes a lot of Amish book but does venture into other genres like historical fiction and contemporary. I discovered her books by reading the historical fiction series set on Nantucket Island and loved the series; this book is the first in a contemporary series set on an island off Maine called Three Sisters Island. Whether historical or contemporary, the author has a writing style that draws you into the heart of her characters and leaves you looking forward to the next book. If you’re a fan of her writing, you will doubtless be pleased and satisfied with the tale of a widowed father making his late wife’s wishes come true as he hopes to rebuild the family ties with and amongst his three independent daughters on a breath-taking island filled with God’s beauty but also economic decline.
Paul, a widowed and retired sports announcer, buys a large chunk of an island that holds dear memories for him and his late wife in hopes that he can revive the area and the island itself. Convinced that he needs to be coddled, his three daughters follow him to the island and their worlds turn upside down. Cam, the oldest, is your stereotypical first born who is bossy and driven in her determination towards the goal. Maddie, the middle one, is finishing up her training as a family counselor and wants everyone to be in touch with their feelings. Blaine, the youngest by quite a few years at nineteen, is a free spirit who still hasn’t decided what she wants to do with her life. As the Grayson family actually spends time together, each are drawn to the island that helps them remember the good memories of their past and build new ones. The romantic thread in the story involves Cam and the island school teacher Seth, whose steadfast kindness and gentleness bring her adopted son Cooper out of his shell. But there is more! Intertwined within this sweet story of growing up and becoming a true family is a bit of mystery and some plot twists that definitely add excitement.
I can’t wait for the second installment in the series! Will the island go through a true revival? Will Maddie and Blaine find their one and only? Will Paul fall in love again? So many questions….
I received a copy of the book from Revell (Baker Publishing Group) via Celebrate Lit Tours and was under no obligation to post a positive review. All comments and opinions are solely my own.
On a Summer Tide is the first book in the charming new Three Sisters Island series. The book contains believable, frustrating and lovable characters. Camden, Maddie and Blaine are Paul Grayson’s three daughters who act like typical siblings (lots of bickering). The girls have not been as close since their mother passed away and Paul wants to find a way to fix it. I thought On a Summer Tide was well-written as are all of Suzanne Wood Fisher’s novels. This story, though, is refreshingly different. It moves along at a good pace and has smooth transitions. While the focus of the story is on Camden, we interact with Paul, Blaine, Maddie, and the townspeople as well. The town contains a variety of quirky characters with my favorite being Peg Legg who owns the Lunch Counter and General Store on the island. She provides plenty of levity and I enjoyed the interactions between her and Paul. There are inserts that take readers back into Camden’s growing up years. We see how the past influenced her life choices. In addition, we get to see how her mother passed away and how Camden came to raise Cooper. I found On a Summer Tide to be a compelling story. The book touches on serious topics in a gentle way so that the story never feels heavy or depressing. There is a touch of romance that is sweet. I like the discussions of faith and the island’s church services. There are two phrases from On a Summer Tide that I want to share with you. The first is “one man’s insanity is another man’s genius” and “life is full of simple miracles if you just open your eyes to them”. I look forward to the next book in the Three Sisters Island series. You will find yourself drawn into On a Summer Tide and not want to put it down. Do not miss out on this entertaining and thoughtful new novel by Suzanne Woods Fisher.
Suzanne Woods Fisher may be best known for her Amish stories, but this contemporary romance is a charmer. On a Summer Tide is filled with memorable characters, gorgeous Maine scenery, and plenty of family drama. I can’t wait to visit Three Sisters Island again!
ON A SUMMER TIDE. Suzanne Woods..Fisher
I would suggest with reading the details of the characters, giving one the age and where each is at in life as this story unfolds.
Children now as grown adults do tend to associated memories with the house, and town they grew up in. Even more so, with their mother gone.
I like how the writer, tried to soften the blow, of him telling the three girls.
He bought an island. A little one. Part of one. As though that would help.
The reaction came and stopped with he brought an island. Then the why’s.
A humorous story of how each fills in to why, then the association and memories of their camping trips. Did the name of the island translation have anything to why he bought that specific island.
Life changes for all, new memories were formed, as they came together to rebuild the place, and being together.
Different, looking into a family life, as changes come. Like a set of dominos, they didn’t fall but became stronger with this change.
Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest opinion by Net Galley and Revell.
I really enjoyed this story! It was refreshing to read a contemporary novel by Suzanne Woods Fisher! I loved the whole family and Peg! I definitely can’t wait to read more from this series! I’m looking forward to seeing how their stories continue. I think there were some good messages in this book. I would recommend this.
I was given a complimentary copy of this ebook from the author, but was not required to write a review. The thoughts and comments are my own.
This book has everything that I love: A family that sticks together through difficult times; characters that have their own strong personalities and hold their place well in the storyline; a gorgeous setting that adds interest and helps drive the story; and a plot that is absorbing and heartwarming. I love Suzanne Woods Fisher’s Amish and historical novels, and reading this contemporary Christian fiction book written by her was a delight. This is really not a “romance” novel, although one of the characters does have a love interest in the story. It’s more about coming together as a family; finding peace after tragedy; and trusting God for purpose and direction. I loved this first book in the series about Three Sisters Island, and look forward to the next book in this series.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.
I am a huge fan of the Amish books by Suzanne Woods Fisher and now I’m a huge fan of her contemporary works. On a Summer Tide blew me away.
Direct quote “Planning doesn’t make the wedding. And the wedding doesn’t make the marriage. The marriage is what we live with, day in and day out.” Oh, how I wish engaged couples would read this book just for that quote. It is so true! Look beyond the glitz and glam of the ceremony and reception and look toward your future. Where do you want your marriage to be in ten, twenty years?
There is religion in this beautiful work of art but it is expressed serenely and at the most appropriate moments. It makes the reader sit back and reflect before moving on.
At the end of the book is a recipe for chocolate chip cookies using rice crispy cereal that I plan on making this weekend and a discussion guide. This book has just about everything in it.
I am looking forward to reading the next installment of The Three Sisters series.
I received a complimentary copy from Revell through NetGalley. Any and all opinions expressed in the above review are entirely my own.
If you are familiar with this author’s book’s, this book is not an amish book. For the first few chapters I thought for sure the author was going to try and tell all three sisters stories in one book, after about the 2nd chapter I realized the book was mainly about Cam and her story with check-ins from her sisters. I found that Cam was high strung and all about just “getting” things done. I did like how she was blunt and to the point and you never had to wonder where you stood with her. I wasn’t sure if as a reader we would find out how Libby Lost her life but that does get told later in the story and it totally broke my heart. I really enjoyed the Island and I really loved Peg she was one of my favorite in the story over all. This book was a good clean read and suitable for all.
I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley. I was under no obligation to post a review and have given my honest opinion
A real good read, great characters, I especially liked the Father and the youngest daughter. It was a good clean story.
I recommend this book.
It was a great book! Suzanne is a great writer!! Love her books!
What’s not to love about this cast of unique and engaging characters? I was caught up in their lives as each sister in her own way adjusted to their dad’s plans to restore and reopen the summer camp where he and their late mother had met. There was a twist near the end that I didn’t see coming, but it was a touching way to tie everything together. This book was primarily the eldest sister Cam’s story, so now I look forward to reading the next books in the series to find out what Maddie’s and Blaine’s futures hold.
I’ll have to get the followup book; I really enjoyed this one. Can a family of sisters come together and get beyond the petty quarrels and not-so-petty misunderstanding that they have had over the years. Maybe getting them out of their normal into a totally new situation will help.
Paul Grayson and his three daughters end up on Three Sister’s Island after their father purchases the island and decides to refurbish Camp Kicking Moose. There are lots of heated moments, but plenty of tender ones also.
The setting of Three Sister’s Island is brought to life through the descriptive imagery of the author’s words. It transported me to a magical place with gorgeous scenery, exceptional characters, and plenty of drama within the Grayson family.
The storyline is captivating. It’s filled with forgiveness, family bonding, and new beginnings. I loved the instances where the characters took a leap of faith and their hope for the future is restored. It’s uplifting and inspirational.
My favorite character is Cooper, Cam’s young son who is afraid of everything but learns to be very brave. The ending of the story wrapped everything up nicely and I’m hoping there will be more books coming.
I won a copy of On a Summer Tide from a Goodreads giveaway and voluntarily choose to review i
I can’t tell you how wonderful this series is. We get sucked into the lives of three sisters and at the end of each story we can’t wait to see where we will go next. We laugh, we cry, and we whoop for joy as they accomplish things in their lives despite getting in their own way. The father is a great story line too of going after his dream and finally putting it together even though everyone thinks he is to old to do it. You are never to old to live your dream you just may need to find someone to help you out with it a little bit. This is a great read….
I loved this book! We read it in our book club, and everyone loved it. The main characters were all well-developed, each with his/her own problems and strengths. Even the rest of the town’s characters were quirky and funny with their own personalities. In addition to being a light summer read, the story also dealt with the sins of the past and forgiveness for those. Ms. Fisher did a wonderful job of showing sister relationships and made me wonder if she had sisters that she based the book’s sisters on. I highly recommend this book, and I intend to read the rest of the books in the series!
As part of the Revell Blogger Program, I was really excited to be chosen for the second book in this series, “On a Coastal Breeze” to review. So, in anticipation of getting that book, and having an Amazon gift card – I decided to get this novel to see how the series begins.
Fisher is best known for her Amish fiction; and despite having heard of her – this is the first book of hers I have ever read.
I have to hand it to the staff at Revell for designing such a calm, relaxing, and gorgeous cover that draws you right to it. Three Sisters Island looks like a place you want to visit or to live. As long as there is internet – I’d personally live there!
So, I can’t imagine any kind of discord that could come to or result from this peaceful, tranquil scene.
As previously mentioned, this is part of a series, but this particular book is a standalone read. “On a Summer Tide” is Camden’s story.
The island gets its name from a translation of the “Native” name. As the Native name was too difficult to pronounce, Paul Grayson – the new owner – decides to use the translation – Three Sisters. And, it also works out quite nicely since he has three daughters. Although the islanders are wary at first, they warm up to the idea.
Paul, a widower, is doing something he and his late wife had planned to do – buy the island (or rather camp) where they first met. I found this remarkably romantic and tragic at the same time. And, his daughters’ reactions were what I would’ve expected – shock, disbelief, as well as curiosity. They not only thought he’d lost his mind, but were also keen on helping him keep his investment.
For me, the story started off slow it wasn’t until chapter seven (7) where I felt it began gaining traction.
Also, the only characters I really liked from the beginning were Peg, Paul, and Seth. The sisters were annoying, but I saw such progression with Blaine that I came to admire her more than the others. It was nice to see Maddie even out and not overly analyze each minute detail. Cam was the one who really needed to progress, which was slower than anticipated.
Cooper was one that I felt advanced quicker than Cam, despite his “issues” which are never fully disclosed or dealt with. It was interesting how the middle sister, Maddie, seemed more in tune to what Cooper needed. However, I also felt she was far more stifling. Her training as a therapist comes in handy at times.
Cam’s character is a perfect example of success and money does not equal happiness. Watching her struggle as a single mom was heart-breaking. She truly cared about Cooper, her adopted son. But, it also seemed like she took it on more as an obligation since his deceased mother, Libby, had been her best friend.
Despite the success and substantial money from the sale of a company she helped become successful, she isn’t truly happy in her life. She insists she is moving on – but she is only moving, though getting absolutely nowhere.
And, the reader learns how their mother’s death and Libby’s are connected. That in itself is tragic, riveting, and keeps the reader engaged with this story.
The overall plot was darling! I loved the idea of buying a camp or island and building it up for improvement, but still maintaining the original concept.
As I kept reading it, I wanted to continue, more so towards the end. I wanted to see where Fisher was taking this trio of sisters, their father, and those in their lives. I wanted to see how Seth and Cam were going to go with their relationship.
The story was beautiful and endearing.
I also enjoyed the flashbacks of the sisters which showed how they became who they were and why they interacted with each other the way they did. There was a clear divisiveness between the sisters and you could easily see how the dynamics played out even into adulthood. Fisher’s realistic writing puts the readers in the middle of the conflict. And, she did so in a way where you could not only sympathize with each sister, but be annoyed with them as well.
What was also interesting was the inclusion of a mystery of sorts regarding a “disappearance”, along with a startling revelation about Cooper’s parentage.
The mystery is solved by the end of the book, and it is timid Cooper who ends up putting it together. But, Cooper’s parentage will carry over to the second book as that is not entirely revealed by the end of this one.
This doesn’t wrap up neat or tidy, but definitely ends on a positive note. The writing was superb, especially for the beginning of a series. Even if I hadn’t gotten a complimentary copy of the second book, I definitely would’ve wanted it. The events in this book set up how the second book begins and progresses.
As this is distributed by Revell, which is a Christian/faith themed company, there will be Christian tones to it. There are references to God as well as a sermon from a church service. Seth is not only the school teacher, but also interim pastor. So, this does use faith as a central theme to it. Some of Revell’s books don’t rely this heavily on faith. It wasn’t a problem for me as I don’t mind it.
For those who want less “preaching”, they may want to pass it up. This is also a clean read which means there are no sex scenes or foul language.
Recommended for fans of Christian fiction who enjoy strong faith and church themes.
The second book; On a Coastal Breeze (Three Sisters Island #2); was released on May 5th, 2020.