Meg is spending her summer on Dune Island, helping out her Aunt Ruby at her B&B. Before Ruby's health gets worse, she shares a secret with Meg—something that could stop the neighbouring property from being sold to a developer by Simon, a widower who recently inherited the land.

I’ve read a couple of fast-paced thrillers lately, so this one felt a bit slow in comparison. I was expecting more action and for Meg to dive into uncovering the mystery of Ruby’s secret, but she kind of took a backseat, and waited for the answers to come to her.

I did like Meg overall and found her pretty relatable, though she did frustrate me a bit with all the overthinking and missing things that felt pretty obvious.

On the plus side, I loved the Dune Island setting—it had a cozy, summery vibe. Simon’s kids were great, and I really enjoyed seeing how Meg’s relationship with Simon and his family developed over time.

There were a few points where I almost stopped reading, just because I had more exciting books waiting, but I’m glad I finished it. The last 20% picked up, and I liked how it all wrapped up.

Thanks to NetGalley, Bookouture, and the author for the ARC!

Wasn't aware that this was part of a series but it can be read as a standalone. Really enjoyed it so will be checking out the rest of the series.

I wasn't aware that this was part of a series when I read it. However it can be read as a standalone but I will definitely be checking out the others now.

The Secret of Ruby's Lighthouse is the 7th book in the Dune Island series. Each book is a standalone story, with the setting of Dune Island being what ties them all together. Meg Carter can’t wait to spend the summer with her great-aunt Ruby. Ruby runs an Inn on Misty Point, but has been ill and is still recovering. Meg takes a leave of absence from her job and plans on helping Ruby over the summer. She has plans to spruce up the Inn and make minor changes to help Ruby keep the guests coming. Shortly after arriving, they get news that Simon, grandson of the former owners, is selling his land next door to a luxury resort developer. The plans are certain to ruin the beautiful view of the lighthouse and beach, the drawing points to Ruby's Inn. This is sure to put Ruby out of business. Ruby is always gracious, even to Simon when she finds out his plans. Stress gets to her and Ruby has a stroke. She needs to go to a rehab centre, so Meg stays on the island to run the Inn. Will she be able to convince Simon not to see the land while Ruby recovers?

I always enjoy my visits to Dune Island. This is a place that I would love to visit, spend time on the beach, visit the lighthouse and head into town for ice cream at Bleekers. I liked the characters in this story, especially Abigail and Cody, Simon's children. It has been a few years since their mother was killed in a traffic accident and Simon is still dealing with his grief. Cody doesn't remember his mother, but Abigail does. She is a pretty no nonsense kid and I loved her blunt manner. She is immediately drawn to Meg and after spending time with her over the summer is hoping she will be their new step-mother, but not the Cinderella kind. There are a lot of heartbreaking moments in this story, especially with Cody. He is a sweet boy, but doesn't talk much, is afraid of storms and has the remnants of a blanket tied around his waist everywhere he goes. Just before Ruby has her stroke, she tells Meg that she has a secret and the key is in the lighthouse. Meg looks everywhere for information hoping the secret will keep Simon from selling the property. There is an undercurrent of romance in the story, but it is in the background with feeling simmering throughout. This is a well written, story with great characters, and a relatable plot. There are themes of family, grief, supporting those you love, friendship, taking chances and healing. I definitely recommend this book to those who enjoy contemporary fiction, women's fiction or stories of family.

When I requested this book on Netgalley, I did not realize that it was part of a series. It is a lovely story all on its own, but I have a feeling that the first six books would be wonderful to read as well. Family, friendship, and community play a large role throughout.

This was a good read. I didn't realise it was apart of a series. But I was able to read it. I did feel for Ruby. I also liked Meg too. I will be looking at the first 6 books.

The Secret of Ruby's Lighthouse is the latest captivating release by Kristin Harper, and I highly recommend you get your copy right away!

In this story, we meet Ruby, the owner of a charming inn in Misty Point on Dune Island. Unfortunately, Ruby is recovering from a respiratory illness when she faces another setback, leaving Meg to manage the business during her recovery. To make matters worse, the grandson of a former Misty Point resident has come to sell the land he inherited to a resort developer, causing an uproar among the locals. Ruby tells Meg that the Lighthouse holds the key to the situation before she is rushed to the hospital. Can Meg uncover the secret being Ruby telling her “the Lighthouse holds the key” and bring about change?

I was completely captivated by this novel! I adore how Kristin can evoke the essence of a place without explicitly describing it! I would love to visit Dune Island and meet all the characters I've come to know through Kristin's stories! I'm sure you'd love that too!!

Meg Carter thought finally her dream comes true when her friend is proposing and she her greatest wish to have kids will come true. After finding out that he waited that she turns 40, hence the question about kids is of the table, she breaks off the engagement. As also her job is not going to well for Meg is the perfect time to spend more than only some days with her great-aunt Ruby on the charming island Dune Island.
So she ends up helping Ruby running her inn and is present when finally Simon, the grandson of the former owner of the house, who left it to Ruby as they were old friends, shows up on the island. Neither his father or himself were so far interested in the land which was left to them right next to the inn and which gives everybody this perfect view to the Lighthouse and easy access to the beach.
When Simon informs Ruby, that he is selling his land to a developer so they can build a resort, this seems to be the biggest threat till Ruby has a stroke right before she wants to reveal a big secret to Meg and Simon. All she can manage to say is “The Lighthouse holds the key”.


This is the 7th book of a series. I was not aware of this hence I can confirm you can read this as a standalone book.
I really liked this story. The author is creating such a wonderful atmosphere on the island that I wished to be there as well.
I really liked that we have her characters which are 40+ and for me really realistic.
For me a really nice romance which is also about family, secrets, fighting for dreams and new beginnings.

Ruby the elderly inn owner is a wonderful character, especially when we learn during the book her secrets.
Meg is not giving up on her hopes and is not willing to accept now that she turned 40 she will never be a mom (what others indicate). That she takes her time on the island to help her great-aunt, how is she trying to find a way for the inn to survive well written.
Simon as widower who needs to handle all his problems is an interesting character and I really like how he is changing during the book.
His kids Abigail and Cody were brilliant written! For me it was fun whenever they showed up in the story, the way they are and also to read how this family learns to adjust to the strokes of fate they were going through.

So a good story, in a wonderful setting with great characters.

This was a really fun, uplifting and sweet romance. I really liked the way the characters lives were intertwined and how they author shared the past and showed how it affected the current timeline . I also thought the addition of the kids in the book added for a very sweet detail. Although this is part of a series, it can easily be read as a standalone as the only thing that it shares with the other books in the series is the location.

The Secret of Ruby's Lighthouse by Kristin Harper.
Dune's island book 7.
This was a good read. I didn't realise it was apart of a series. But I was able to read it. I did feel for Ruby. I also liked Meg too. I will be looking at the first 6 books.

BLOG TOUR REVIEW

Review for 'The Secrets Of Ruby's Lighthouse' by Kristin Harper.

This is the fourth book I have read by this author. It is also the seventh book in the 'Dune Island' series but can be read as a standalone. I have previously read 'Summer At Hope Haven' which is the first book in this series, 'Lily's Secret Inheritance' which is the fourth book in this series and 'My Grandmother's Inn' which is the fifth book in this series and I would definitely recommend them all.

Another absolutely beautiful book in Kristin's 'Dune island' series. In this absolutely gorgeous book Kristin transports the reader onto the absolutely beautiful Dune Island where we meet Ruby who moved to Dune Island 47 years ago and now owns The Inn that she inherited. The Inn is now in need of redecorating so Ruby decides to contact her great niece Meg to see if she would like to stay with her for the summer and help her with the refurbishments. Meg is on a break from work and has fond memories of the time she spent with Ruby on breaks away so readily agrees. We also meet Simon who inherited the cottage next door to Ruby's Inn and has come to visit it with his children. Simon is a single Dad after his wife was killed in a car accident 2 years previously. However, when Ruby, Meg and Simon are having dinner together Simon tells them that he is planning on selling to developers. Ruby and Meg are disgusted and annoyed as it will affect Ruby and her Inn, Misty Point as well as not being what Sarah and Gordon would have wanted to happen. Ruby also has a secret that she wants to share with Meg and Simon but when Ruby is taken ill Meg's attention moves from the Inn's refurbishments and she focuses on Ruby's health. Will Ruby recover? Will Meg discover the secret? What will become of Ruby's Inn? To find out more you will just have to grab your copy of this beautiful page turner today and I can promise that you will not regret it!! With a gorgeous storyline filled with stunning settings, heartache, family and rammed with different emotions it has everything you could ask for and more. This truly is an emotional and beautiful book that will have you hooked from the moment you start to the very end. As always, Kristin does an absolutely gorgeous job of weaving a fantastic storyline together seamlessly ensuring the reader can see and feel everything that is going on. I absolutely loved this absolutely stunning page turner for so many reasons and I cannot wait to get stuck into more books by the extremely talented Kristin, especially the previous book s in this series that I have yet to get around to reading! It truly is a gorgeous and addictive page turner that will keep readers hooked from the first page to the last!! I absolutely loved the book references and quotes scattered throughout this stunning storyline and I will definitely be using some of them myself in the future!! Although this book is the seventh book in this series you will have absolutely no problems reading it as a standalone. Any relationships, friendships and cases mentioned are explained in just the right amount of detail so new readers of this gripping series understand what's happened previously but not too much that previous readers get bored by repetition. I would always recommend reading books in a series in order but if you cant resist reading this one before the previous ones, and who would blame you with this stunning cover sucking you in, then there is a silver lining! The silver lining is that after you finished and fallen in love with this book and series you can go back and read the previous six gorgeous books while you are waiting for Kristin's next success to come out!! The storyline and indeed the title is unique and realistic and Kristin's brilliant descriptions brings absolutely everything to life in front of your eyes. It started straight in the story and kept you going on a roller-coaster ride of emotions throughout. Prepare yourself for a rollercoaster ride with a couple of surprises thrown in!!! I just could not put this book down and I cannot wait to read more books by this author!!! It is emotionally charged and filled with family, secrets, drama and of course the sea, lighthouse and beach!! It is beautifully written with such realistic descriptions it made me feel like I was right next to Ruby and Meg the whole time feeling the sand on my toes and the wind in my hair. The ending was absolutely beautiful although I was gutted when I came to it. It genuinely felt like I had gone on holiday to Dune Island and I was devastated to come to the end and realise I had to unpack my suitcase! This book would make an absolutely gorgeous movie! I'm looking forward to reading the previous and future books in this beautiful series. It is one of those books that once you pick it up you just wont be able to put it down so make sure you clear your schedules!!

Although this is the seventh book in the series I have had absolutely no problems reading it without the others. Any details or events that have previously happened are mentioned in just the right amount of detail to let a new reader know what has happened and yet not too much to bore a previous reader.

The characters were well rounded, solid and realistic. The main characters in this book are Ruby Molly. they are such strong female character which I love seeing in novels. they are also book lovers which definitely makes them epic in my book! I loved watching their character development throughout the book. It is hard to say too much without giving too much of the storyline away. Regardless of whether you live them or can't stand them each of these characters worked perfectly together to make this book an absolutely beautiful read. I am looking forward to meeting them all again and hopefully soon!

Congratulations Kristin on yet another absolutely stunning page turner!!

Overall a stunning page turner which takes you on holiday to Dune Island and floods you with emotions..

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📱E-Book Review📱

The Secret Of Ruby's Lighthouse
Kristin Harper

🌟🌟🌟🌟

This is my first read by this author and as such, also my first read in this series.

This is the seventh book in the Dune Island series and I was a little worried that some parts of this read would not make sense - but I was pleasantly surprised to find this a really easy and enjoyable read, not finding my reference to last events from the other books.
I presume this is due to a common setting, but characters who come and go over the series.

The setting was absolutely idyllic and definitely my kind of relaxing getaway.
The descriptive writing transported me and it was great to get to know the landscape and all the community too!
But I absolutely loved our main characters.

As the story unfolds, we see some tough topics explored, but I loved that these were sensitively written and really endeared me to Abigail and Cody - such cute/great kids!

I liked the connection and the way that Meg and Simon's relationship blossomed, but I did find them a little frustrating at times - however, this didn't put me off reading and I needed to know the secret....which was not quite as I'd expected!

This was a lovely relaxing read - something a little different to my usual fast-paced thrillers and I really enjoyed it.
I would love to read more by this author in the future too so will be checking out some of the earlier books in the series soon.

This was a really enjoyable story, I loved the concept of coming for the escape and then having the discovery of working out the secret. I enjoyed watching our very slow romance start to build for some time you wonder if there may be a romance or whether it is just a friendship and with this couple I’d be honestly happy with either. This story did feel like some others I had read but in the best possible way because once I was reading I couldn’t put it down.

I didn't know this was book 7 in the Dune Island series but it can easily be read as stand alone.

I loved the author's description of the book setting at Misty Point. I could certainly visualise the Inn, the beaches and the Lighthouse.

The range of characters is diverse and spans the generations. I liked Meg and Simon, although I found them a little annoying at times. As for Abigail and Cody, what cute little kids despite the trauma they were going through.

My heart went out to Ruby, especially after she became unwell, and I really hoped we would find out her secret. I loved the bond between her and Meg.

This is a lovely story about family, secrets and new beginnings. I will certainly look out for other books by this author.

I love the bucolic setting of Misty’s Point and the lighthouse.
I was less than thrilled about the plans for the resort which would absolutely wreck the ambiance of the special cove and the inn.
I thought Chloe was very pushy and disrespectful.
Meg took on a lot and finally figured out a plan that worked. I was also glad for Ruby’s recovery.
If you’re seeking a nice placid read, spot your light on this book.

🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
What a wonderful story, it gripped me from the first page until the last. I loved it! Meg is dealing with a breakup from her fiance. So she decides to spend the summer with her Aunt Ruby who owns an inn. She figures that working will help keep her busy until she meets Simon, a widower with two young children. He decided that he wants to sell the land behind the inn to a developer. Ruby has a secret to tell Meg but she is unable to get the message to her. Meg has to use the few clues she has to figure out what Aunt Ruby wants her to know.
I couldn’t put this book down! I read it on the plane and luckily I was able to read it in one sitting. The characters were all amazing! Abigail and Cody, Simon’s children, were delightful! I couldn’t get enough of this book. And I was rocked by the surprise twist at the end! Highly recommend!! Many thanks to the author, Bookouture and NetGalley for a complimentary copy of the book. The opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own.
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What a fun book to read! If only I could’ve read it on the beach with a view of the lighthouse in Misty Point. The Secret of Ruby’s Lighthouse is part mystery with a splash of family drama, and a sprinkle of the best romance your hoping will happen at some point. I enjoyed the characters and the setting of the book. Can’t wait for part 2! ☀️
Meg is excited to take the summer off and go visit her Aunt at Misty Island. She has such fond memories of summers swimming, walks to the lighthouse, and spending time with her favourite Aunt. Aunt Ruby is getting older and Meg is happy to help her get the Inn ready for its new guests to arrive. Reservations are down and Ruby isn’t sure how much longer she can stay open, but when a relative shows up to claim his part of the land things take a turn. Simon intends on selling his share of the land to a developer who will build a massive resort on the property and surely put Ruby out of business.
Meg instantly loathes Simon not only for what he’s about to do but his flippant attitude towards ruining the quit and tranquility that Dune Island represents. Her Aunt sends her on a wild goose chaise to find a clue that could change everyone’s lives but Meg can’t seem to find what she needs. The summer has taken a sharp turn and the pressure is all on her shoulders. Meg will do anything to save the Inn and make Simon realise what a huge mistake he’s making.

I first just want to say that the minute this author Kristin brings out a new book, straight away it goes to top of my to be read list, as I always enjoy reading books by this author. The Secret of Ruby’s Lifhthouse is Kristin Harper’s seventh book and I’m delighted to say that I have read them all. Oh and just so it is clear, these can all be read as standalone, so don’t have to be read in order.

Just like her other books, I thoroughly enjoyed this story, it was beautiful, heartfelt and emotional in places but also plenty of drama and other things going on also. There was lots of likeable characters in this story and I enjoyed getting to know them all, think two of my favourites were the young children Abigail and Cody, some of the things they said and their characteristics, just so sweet and inquisitive.

I was very jealous of Meg, what with her getting to take walks on the beach most days, but I did also enjoy getting to know her and I was routing for her, whilst she tried to figure out her great Auntie Ruby’s secret.

So all in all it has been a pleasure to read, enjoyed it from start to finish and to be honest, really didn’t want the story to end. It was a great ending to the story though, just prefect.

Meg Carter takes unpaid leave from her job at a University to spend the Summer helping her Great Aunt Ruby renovate her charming, but dated Inn on Dune Island. The Inn is idyllically situated on a remote peninsular known as Misty Point, and has stunning views from all its rooms. The unexpected arrival of Simon, who owns the adjoining land, creates enormous unrest when Meg learns of his plans to sell his land to a luxury resort developer. Any new development will likely destroy the Inn's spectacular views of the lighthouse and probably force the Inn to close. As if this wasn't enough Ruby's health suddenly declines and it is left to Meg to try and persuade Simon not to sell his land, Before becoming ill, Ruby has hinted at a long held secret which may change Simon's mind, however Meg has nothing more than a cryptic comment her Aunt made, just before she was rushed to hospital, to help her.

Previous books I have read by this author had me captivated by their gritty and sometimes raw style of writing. Whilst I was expecting 'The Secret of Ruby's Lighthouse' to be a more gentle read I was a little disappointed by the old fashioned and slightly twee narrative. Initially I warmed to Meg, however as the story progressed, I found her selflessness a touch irritating. The plot was predictable, even a family saga benefits from a few surprises and the odd twist or turn.

For me, the highlights of the book are the glorious depictions of the lighthouse and surrounding landscape which are so descriptive I could almost feel the sand between my toes, hear the ebb and flow of the ocean and sense the brightness of the lighthouse lamp.

Although this is not my favourite Kristin Hannah book, if you enjoy escapist family sagas I think you will find 'The Secret of Ruby's Lighthouse' an entertaining read. Rating 3.5 stars, rounded up to to 4 stars.

Thanks to NetGalley and Bookouture for my advanced reader copy in return for my honest and unbiased review.

This was my first novel by Kristin Harper and I look forward to more, especially The Dune Island series.
I found it to be a heartwarming romantic story with a bit of mystery surrounding Aunt Ruby’s secret and Meg and Simon set in a beautiful location.
Thank you to the publisher/author for the opportunity to read this complimentary advanced copy. Opinions expressed in this review are my own.