This is quickly becoming one of my favorite historical romance novel series. Each time I enter back to Nantucket through one of Suzanne Woods Fisher’s books I enter in to a story that transports and inspires. Ren may know how to handle a crew but can he learn to be a family man, and stay on land? Through heart aches, and tender moments readers are sure to fall in love with this story.

Minding the Light by Suzanne Woods Fisher is the second book in the Nantucket Legacy series. This story picks up on the island some years later. I love all the detail that the author has put in about the whaling industry, which I knew nothing about, the landscape and surrounding water, and just life in general during a time much slower than today. Great Mary's journal yields more timely advice. I had moments of joy, sorrow and even disgust while reading this incredible historical romance.

History, Quaker lifestyle, the island of Nantucket and real life come alive in this wonderful book. It certainly makes me want to visit and learn more.

I received a copy of this book through Celebrate Lit. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own. (less)

Suzanne Woods Fisher's Minding the Light will capture your imagination from page one onward. The characters are lively and not what you might expect from the black and white pages of your history books about Quakers.

A coveted journal from one of the first white settlers on Nantucket Island makes its way into book two of the Nantucket legacy series. Written by Mary Coffin Starbuck, who wrote about her life in the 17th century, her days seemed to parallel the life of her forbears.

Captain Reynold Macy had much to look forward to when he returned home after a six year voyage. What waited for him on arrival was more than he bargained for. The story unfolds it is certain that the life he dreamed of with his young wife Jane was never going to be what he imagined. The ship's hold was full and should turn a profit. His cousin and business partner Tristram Macy, had looked after his business affairs so all would be well.

His young sister-in-law, Daphne, was about to become engaged to Tristram. She had been helping Jane manage the large house on Orange Street where all fine captains lived. Her heart was with her family, and although her mother was pushing her engagement, she was reluctant to set her heart fully on the match.

I meant to read only a few pages as the hour was late when I began, but soon found the time had moved along until I was well into the third chapter before I had to put it down. I was looking forward to this book since I read the sneak peek in Phoebe's Light. The Quaker faith in this series is inspiring as it relates to bringing forth the light. Jane, and her sister Daphne have a strong faith and live their lives accordingly. However, while the Quakers considered themselves "Friends" they also do not welcome the native population or blacks into the polite society of their meetings. This is very evident with their own mother, Lillian Coffin, whose standards are so different than her daughters.

I recommend Minding the Light with 5 stars for those who love historical fiction. The characters are engaging and the plot well written.

I thought this was a pretty good book! Very interesting and inspiring.
While it was a little predictable I still enjoyed it. Very nice story. Good characters top!! :)

I enjoy Suzanne Woods Fisher's Amish books so this one is a little different than what I am used to. This book focuses on Daphne Coffin, a young single woman who follows the Quaker way of life on Nantucket Island in the early 1800's. The young woman is supportive of her sister who is married to a sea captain, Reynolds Macy, who has fallen away from the religious upbringing. The story is focused on religious and political hypocrisy which we can certainly see in today's society too. Slavery is banned but at least one Quaker seems to turn a blind eye when a stand needs to be taken. Fisher uses an excellently written character who is highly judgmental and uses position to harm others in the name of religion. This is tastefully and very true to nature as I have personally experienced this type of 'power' play in my own life at various times.

We readers are also invited in to read Mary Coffin Starbuck's diary written in the 1660's when she was part of the first Quaker families to move to Nantucket. She searched her heart when slavery begins to be introduced to the island.

The book was interesting, the plot with true-to-life circumstances, historical information, heartbreak, love and joy. The characters are believable endearing and some quite maddening. I would read more in this series.


Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for my copy of the ARC.

I loved the historical detail in this book! All of Suzanne's books are wonderful, but this one may be my favorite yet. I loved Daphne!

This is the second book in Suzanne Woods Fisher’s Nantucket Legacy series. The first book tied up many loose ends, but there was a thread that related to the journal that contains Great Mary’s story, and that one continues here, along with a new thread, largely unrelated to the first book except in genealogy, and it is mostly completed within these pages. Unlike the earlier installment, however, we are left with a bit of a cliffhanger in both times, which leaves me eagerly awaiting the next book!

I really enjoyed the characters in this novel, especially in the later timeline. These are wounded people, hurting in many ways, yet still finding the strength to carry on. For Daphne, faith is a strong sustainer; Ren is an honorable man, but his faith needs some shoring up. This is a society where church and state are not very separate, and that lack of division is shown as having both positive and negative elements.

Perhaps the part that surprised me the most was the deep questions this novel asks about what we believe to be true and how actions either confirm or discount that. While the larger question of hypocrisy is addressed, the more nuanced one is what I found fascinating: If we believe something to be wrong, how does that show in what we do? For example, if I truly believe all men are created equal, am I associating with all men, befriending them, serving them?

This book is much deeper than I expected it to be, a more thoughtful and thought-provoking read. The question of our beliefs and how they translate to action caused me to examine my own heart, and the fictional characters captured my imagination. This is an enjoyable read for those who like historical romance in a unique setting and I highly recommend it.

I received a review copy of this book through Celebrate Lit but was not required to write a positive review. The thoughts expressed are both honest and my own.

Minding the Light
Nantucket Legacy #2
By Suzanne Woods Fisher

Minding the Light is the second book in the Nantucket Legacy which further explores the beginnings of Nantucket and its Quaker roots. This book like the previous one takes place in two different times, in this case, it takes place in the 1660s and the 1820s.

The 1660s portions are excerpts taken from Mary Coffin Starbuck's journal which amongst those living in later Nantucket generations is the stuff of legends. Mary is settling into married life with Nathaniel and having to adjust to her new living situation. When slavery comes to the island Mary and the other residents must decide where they stand on this issue.

The 1820s finds Mary's descendants still living on Nantucket and though life has changed and progressed the same basic issues plague those who call it home. Daphne Coffin has been there for her sister Jane while her husband took to the sea following the whales whom would enrich him. For six long years, Captain Reynold Macy has been away, anticipating his return to Nantucket and to his Jane. But life has continued without him and he has missed much to both his regret and his surprise. But rebuilding his life is no easy task and he will need the help of Daphne to do this.

I really enjoyed this book - the characters have their faults (some more than others) and these make them more believable and relatable. Both time periods find the people struggling with the issue of slavery. I found the Quaker stance on slavery and social interaction with persons of color to be an interesting one. To champion freedom while ignoring the very people they were championing seems a little out of whack in my opinion. And Jane and Daphne's mother is quite a disagreeable individual whom I can honestly say I can't see myself ever being able to be in a room with. If you like historical fiction I would highly recommend this one.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher Revell with no expectations of a positive review ~ all opinions expressed are my own.

I was excited to get the opportunity to read the next installment in the Nantucket Legacy series, and sure was not disappointed.
Love that this is a historical book, and although I may not agree how their living was made, it is what was accepted and what happened.
As with the first book we go back in history with the journal of the matriarch of this New England Family, and spending time with a Quaker Community. Of course, I wondered if the treasure would come into play and if it was still there, this and others questions are answered here, and you are not going to want it to end.
I see that there is another novel in this series to come, and a teaser is offered at the end of this book.
I received this book through Celebrate Lit, and was not required to give a positive review.

Minding the Light by Suzanne Woods Fisher is the second book in the Nantucket Legacy series which once again gives us a look into Great Mary's journal - a look which helps guide her descendants once again.

When Reynolds Macy returns to Nantucket after seven long years at sea, he discovers many changes. The most significant difference is that he has two children - twins - a boy and a girl. Regret over his prolonged absence hits him hard. Then there is his wife's sister Daphne - he can't believe the changes in her! And since I will not give anything away about this remarkable story, I will leave it there. Let's say the romance is sweet, natural and meant to be!

I loved how the author dealt with racism in this book and how Daphne (with the help of Great Aunt Mary's journal) deals with a runaway slave. Her spiritual growth, and Ren's growth as well, shows us how important it is to "mind the light" within.

This is a series you want to invest yourself in, and this book is easily read as standalone, I highly encourage you to begin with the first book, Phoebe's Light. You won't regret it!

Minding The Light is a fantastic historic romantic story. Wow, now that is an eye full. It is the words of Mary Coffin's journal and the life of Daphne. The depth of history is incredible and the details are immense. The details are so picturesque of the life in the 19th Century as well as the 17th Century where as you could see for yourself what was happening. The Nantucket Island series is full of Faith with GOD as their "Inner Light". The description of Whaling and sailing ships are so spectacular and specific and you could clearly see them in your mind., It is a wonderful story you should find out for yourself just how good it truly is.

I loved Daphne and her stabilizing influence on the young family who is going through a rough transition. They are all grieving from an unexpected loss, and the long-awaited return of Ren brings secrets to light that have great effects on the islanders. I absolutely loved the historical Nantucket setting and learning more about their way of life. The excerpts from Great Mary's aged journal also show the survival of the first group of settlers to the island, and her unique way of looking at predicaments provide wise counsel to the generations who read her words. There is a strong supporting cast in this story with Patience, the servant who helps Daphne and then Ren with the children, Abraham, the first mate of the Endeavor whose unfailing loyalty to his captain comes back to save him, and even Lillian, Daphne's controlling mother who is a leader among the Quakers but her rigid hypocrisy brings conflict and consequences. This is a compelling story that brings its characters to life. I would have liked a little more romance, but the love triangle was drawn out and part of the conclusion.

(I received a complimentary copy of the book; all opinions in this review are my own)

This series just keeps getting bette with each book. I could not put this book down. Daphne and REN are wonderful characters. I love this series about the beginnings of the Quakers here on Nantucket. I love to read about the whaling ships also. I can’t wait for the next book. I loved to hate Lillian. I received a copy of this book from Celebratelit for a fair and honest opinion that I gave of my own free will.

An enjoyable story of change, love, and acceptance. When Captain Macy gets back home he finds things very different than when he left and has a hard time accepting it. I too would have a problem if I came back to find everything different, but would soon have to move on. Captain Macy tries to act like he isn't bothered by everything, but Daphne sees through him and soon sees the man beyond the surface. She soon must make a decision that will change things very long term.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher, the review is my own.

I liked Phoebe's Light. This is the second book in the series. I'm enthralled by Minding the Light. I don't know how it's possible for me to be more captivated by this book than the last, but I stand amazed by this book.

This book is also set in Nantucket and continues with Quaker history. Again we have a story in two timelines. Mary Coffin Starbuck's journal is still going. Ren and Daphne both captured my heart. I loved how the author showed God's hand in things that aren't expected in life. The history aspects always fascinate me or remind me of history I have forgotten from my childhood. This story is full of difficult issues that persist today, such as prejudice, weak faith vs. strong faith, unforgiveness and forgiveness, addictions and their effects, to name a few. The generational spectrum of this series is something I'm really happy to read.

I have heard the term "Minding the Light, and "The Light Within." To me, this speaks of not only making sure your light doesn't go out but that you tend to your light and keep your light shining. It reminds me of the verse that our light should shine before all men, that they may see our works and glorify God and that we are the light of the world, so we have to keep the Light inside us shining brightly, not clouded by things that don't belong in our lives.

My copy came from Celebrate Lit. My thoughts, opinions and this review are my own, left of my own free volition without compensation of any kind.

This is the second book in the Nantucket Legacy series. This story takes you back to a time when there were men that would leave home for an extended period of time to whale hunt. The story begins with Ren coming home after a six year absence to find himself the father of twins, his wife ill, and the maternal Aunt Daphne being a second mother to the twins. What transpires at first is heart wrenching but turns into a beautiful ending.
Wonderful story with a great ending.
I was given this book free by Revell and Net Galley for my honest review.

Minding the Light by Suzanne Woods Fisher

My rating is 4.5 Stars


Ren’s twins were already 6 years old before he knew they existed. Not because his wife had hidden the fact she had them. It was because he had been whaling. For 7 long years! It is hard to fathom having the kind of career that would require a commitment like that.

Ren was so noble. During the time away from his wife of just a few months, he remained faithful to her and loved her dearly. He also bucked tradition and promoted a Negro to the position of second mate and treated him with kindness.

Daphne was amazing! She was so determined to do what was right and good. Her deep love for her sister and her children was so natural and motivated so much of what she did. This was at least a little amazing considering her mother was shrewish and bitter.

I related well to the characters and found them to be multi-faceted and very interesting. There was some mystery related to Jane’s death and the deplorable way that it came about.

Apparently, the Quakers in the 1600s and at the beginning of the 1800s struggled with issues related to slavery and bigotry and prejudice. I remember hearing the part many Quakers played in the Underground Railroad and assumed that they would have always taken a stance against slavery. The author tackled this difficult subject and shed light on the fact that there were struggles within the community of “Friends”. Though they refused to purchase products that used slave labor, such as cotton and sugar, they still segregated the Negros and the natives and treated them with less respect than they showed each other.

Minding the Light was a great addition to this series.


This review was originally posted on AmongTheReads.net.

Get a preview of Minding the Light at amongTheReads.net


I would like to thank Celebrate Lit for giving me this copy of the book. This gift did not influence my opinion or review.

This is book 2 of the Nantucket Legacy Series. I loved book 1 but book 2 is just amazing. Such a great book! Suzanne's books just keep getting better and better. This story is one that grabs you from the beginning and then you wish you had nothing else to do so that you didn't have to stop reading.

So well written and since I have an ebook, I ran across some historial words that I could readily look up the meaning for. There is a lot of research that would have had to go into this book.

It's a romance as well as historical and the story of Daphne and Ren is really wonderful.

I am so hoping that this series continues for quite some time!

Good job, Suzanne Woods Fisher!

I received an ebook copy from NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Six long years ago, Captain Reynolds Macy sailed away from his bride, looking forward to the day when he would return to Nantucket Island with a ship’s hold full of whale oil. But when that momentous day finally arrives, Ren soon discovers that everything has changed in his absence. Everything. “Is nothing on this island as it appears to be?” he whispers in despair. Unlike most islanders, bold and spirited Daphne Coffin doesn’t defer to Ren as an authoritative whalemaster, but sees through his aloofness to the aching heart beneath. She encourages him to return to his Quaker roots and “mind the Light,” finding solace in God and community. As Ren becomes the man she believes him to be–honorable, wise, faithful–she finds herself falling in love with him. But how can she, when her heart is spoken for? Tristram Macy is Ren’s business partner, cousin, and best friend–and Daphne’s fiancé. Love always comes at a cost, but when is the price too high? Suzanne Woods Fisher welcomes readers back to the Quaker community on Nantucket Island for this riveting love story, full of unexpected moments.



My Thoughts: This is the sequel to Phoebe's Light, we are introduced to her great grandaughter's Jane and Daphne. We are taken back to the Island of Nantucket where whaling is the mainstay of life. That means years, yes years that wives are away from their husbands, and life continues on without them. This novel is full of history, and Suzanne Woods Fisher has done an excellent job of research on the Quaker's and the Nantucket way of life.



In this novel, we are introduced to the Quaker religion and the ways of the people or "friends". It is a wonderful read, full of mystery, love, heartbreak, and turns of events. Suzanne Woods Fisher brings up themes of slavery, hypocrisy, and forgiveness.



The characters are entertaining, easy to love (or hate), she draws the reader in and writes an enjoyable storyline that keeps the reader on their toes. Full of history, the reader learns as they read along. I did enjoy reading Great Mary's journals and learning about the past history of the family and the island of Nantucket. In the end, we are left to ponder what "Minding the Light" means to us.



The reader will learn much from this book, and think about the issues that were covered in this story. This book comes highly recommended.

Suzanne Woods Fisher’s novel, Minding the Light, is full of history and tidbits of folklore about Nantucket. Although it is the second book in the Nantucket Legacy series, it can easily be read as a standalone as it is about a different generation of the founding families.

I was fascinated to learn of the history of the early founders of Nantucket. Almost everyone on the island was a Quaker, so I learned a lot of the history of the Quaker religion, too.

There were many heavy, sad details in the story. Surprisingly, some of the details were quite unexpected, such as drug abuse (and possibly addiction), whereas others, such as slavery and bigotry, weren’t as surprising but were still sad.

A captivating and enthralling novel of life in a whaling community, fraught with danger and excitement... Minding the Light is a gripping, authentic representation of life in the 19th Century, further enhanced by the glossary of terms, resources and discussion questions included in the book.