Insightful, interesting, and immersive, this unique debut gives a glimpse into the troubling and complicated journey of PTSD from the perspective of a single mother/war veteran. It expertly tackles heavy themes and topics including addiction with powerful honesty. Although somewhat repetitive at times, it was a solid, worthwhile read.

Thank you NetGalley, Brilliance Publishing and Lake Union for early access to the book in exchange for an honest review.

3.5 stars rounded up

I loved parts of this story, including the portrayal of Puerto Rico and PTSD. Lina, a single mom, is struggling after her time in Iraq. She killed a young boy there and it haunts her every day. She moves back to Puerto Rico with her son and begins the road to recovery surrounded by family. As much as I wanted to love this story, her constant reminder and replay of what happened was a bit much for me. Parts of the story were repetitive and lost my interest at times. This was a story of recovery, love between mother and son and mental health.

This is one of those rare books that will remain in your heart for a lifetime. Lina and Teo’s story lingers in your memory, filling you with affection and nostalgia. The characters feel like family, individuals with whom I grew, laughed, and experienced life alongside, as if I were living with them in Puerto Rico.

The author’s writing style is refreshingly engaging; neither overdramatic nor exaggerated but instead, it strikes a perfect balance, offering also a clean and heartwarming romance, woven into a deeply authentic, realistic narrative. The fact that the author herself served in the military adds an undeniable layer of authenticity, felt in every carefully crafted word.

This is a book I would eagerly revisit, and one I’d love to buy a physical copy of to place proudly on my bookshelf for years to come. There is so much more I want to express about it—it’s a beautiful exploration of courage, strength, friendship, family, sacrifice, and addiction, all tackled with sensitivity and grace.

At the Island’s Edge is a very raw and powerful insight into Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD). Lina is a combat medic - her job is to heal people; but she is in desperate need of her own healing.

After serving in Iraq, Lina returns to her home island of Puerto Rico where she finds the love of her family, but she also struggles with her family’s restraints. This book is not a quick read; but it is a journey to recovery, peace and acceptance. It is Lina’s journey of finding where she is meant to be…..because “the narrow gate and the difficult road lead to life.”

The audio narration by Kyla Garcia was very enjoyable to listen to. Not only does she capture the characters so well with varying tones and accents, but she also tells the story with empathy and sensitivity to Lina’s trauma.

I received an audio copy of this book from the publisher, Brilliance Publishing. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

When I saw this book on NetGalley and spotted San Juan’s garita on the cover, I knew I had to read it. I was thrilled to be accepted for the audiobook, and it did not disappoint.

As a Puerto Rican, I deeply connected with many of the novel’s themes—machismo, belonging, societal roles, self-worth beyond our jobs, the place of women in our culture, and the central role of God and family. The story also captures the complexities of returning home after years away, especially when family dynamics have shifted.

Though I’ve never been to war, I sympathized with Lina’s struggles as a veteran with PTSD. The novel beautifully portrays the challenges of a single mother navigating life after war, trying to provide for her child while coming to terms with how trauma has forever changed her.

Teo stole my heart— he reminded me of my little cousins with his curiosity, adaptability, and intelligence. I also loved the rich references to Puerto Rico’s nightlife and food (which definitely made me hungry) and the urge it gave me to explore the island.

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️☆ (4/5)

Special thanks to NetGalley for the ALC in exchange for an honest review.

This HEALED my Heart and Soul in ways I didn’t know I needed to be healed!

If you have not heard of this one, please take a look. Read the synopsis on the cover, and/or my review. It is so worth the read!

Of note! Release date is TODAY! March 18, so look 👀 for it in shelves, today!!

Lina (Catalina) is in the Army. She is the single Mom of a young boy with Tourette’s. After a life altering event occurs, she decides to NOT re-up, and instead is honorably discharged. She is not doing well, and decides it might be best for her to return to her roots…in Puerto Rico. She still has much of her family there.

Her son Teo (Matteo) is doing well with the changes, and interweaves with this new family seamlessly. However, he has some problems at school, just like when they were in the states, as the kids tend to PICK on him with his ticks…

Add to this that she’s trying to ‘self-medicate’ to help her adjust back into civilian life… Never mind the dreams she had for herself, and for her beautiful, sweet, Teo….

Add in some meddling Puerto Rican family members… ( I totally understand, as we Italians have similar things going on! 🤣)

As well as a heart-broken, grieving, beautiful young cousin who’s living with Lina’s parents and bonds quickly with Teo…

Then add in a handsome former army vet who’s opened up a Great bar/restaurant in the area…. And you have the makings of a terrific story.

And when all the pieces start to fit into a type of puzzle…well, it’s just MAGIC.

Sweet. Haunting. Scary. Real!
The author depicts realities of PTSD and harrowing realities of life in war zones….
The characters in the story WILL become a part of your life… and if you are like me, ones you will not soon forget!

It looks like this is a debut novel (And, the author served in the Army!) Needless to say I will be looking for more from this remarkable new author!

#AtTheIslandsEdge by #CIJerez and narrated beautifully by #KylaGarcia.

All the stars for me!! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫💫💫💫💫✨✨✨✨✨

Thanks so much to #NetGalley and #BrilliancePublishing for an ARC of the audiobook, in exchange for an honest review.
*** Again, release date is TODAY, so look 👀 for it on shelves now!! ***

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Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️

At the Island’s Edge is an amazing debut novel from C. I. Jerez. It’s extremely powerful and moving look into the sacrifices that our soldiers make on a daily basis. The sacrifices that aren’t just when deployed and during active duty time but also long after the return home. Lina LaSalle’s journey was very open and emotional, showing what soldiers deal with the lasting effects of the war, struggles with PTSD and her battles being a mother.

This was set in the lush backdrop of Puerto Rico. The author really captures the complexity of Lina’s struggles, how resilient she is. It really highlights just how much family and home are important. I really liked that it highlighted military women who are so often forgotten, especially with their battles of PTSD. The narrator was spot on. The book really made me think of the struggles in The Women by Kristin Hannah, so if you enjoyed that book I highly recommend this book.

Thank you to Brilliance Publishing, Brilliance Audio and NetGalley for this advanced listening copy. This review was completely voluntary and my own words.

I devoured this debut. It started off with a really stressful military situation and kept my attention as the story unfolded. The book dealt with some heavy topics - - PTSD, single parenting a child with Tourette's, self medicating with alcohol, a well meaning but controlling family and more. It was a compelling and inspiring story and I appreciated the author’s note about why she focused on women in the military who have suffered PTSD. I loved the Puerto Rico setting and enjoyed learning more about the culture. The narrator was perfect for sharing Lina's story.

Although I did enjoy the narrator, I found this book cringe.

Even though I may side a bit on anti-military stances, I still have a deep understanding of why especially Puerto Rican people enlist. I am sensitive to the history of those decisions. I am proud of the family members that have served. But this whole concept of a book felt off for me. I felt uncomfortable the whole time.

I am willing to admit it is possible this read is just not for me but could most definitely be for someone else.

At the Island’s Edge is an emotional and beautifully crafted novel with deeply human characters and a rich, immersive setting. The writing is lyrical, and the story carries real emotional weight. While I occasionally found my attention drifting, the depth of the characters and themes kept me engaged.

April 15, 2000—Teo’s birthday—was a moment that made my heart leap! This significant date means that Mateo would be 25 years old today, and I can’t help but wonder if he has pursued a career in medicine or science.

As I listened to this audiobook, I was immediately struck by the rich cultural and geographical details, which resonated deeply with me as someone from the island. The reference to "Chiquitas" instantly brought to mind "Kikitas," and I recognized Mateo’s school as Tasis. The descriptions of their hometown were also unmistakable—Dorado—especially with the mention of the highway leading toward Ciales and Manatí. I realized this way before the author shared that they lived in Dorado. These details added an extra layer of authenticity that made the narrative feel incredibly personal and immersive.

At its core, this novel is a beautifully crafted story of resilience, love, and the ability to find beauty in both our strengths and imperfections, as well as in those around us. One of the aspects I appreciated most was the author’s nuanced portrayal of the emotional complexities surrounding the decision to return to the island. The shift in perspective that comes with revisiting a familiar place after time away was captured with remarkable depth and sensitivity.

Additionally, the way PTSD is interwoven into the narrative is both masterful and subtle—it almost feels like a silent character within the story. The author approaches this theme with such grace and tact that it enhances the emotional weight of the novel without overwhelming the reader.

I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone who appreciates an authentic depiction of post-military transition, family bonds, and—above all—the enduring love that Puerto Ricans have for their island. This is a poignant and heartfelt read that lingers long after the final page.

This novel is a powerful and deeply moving exploration of the sacrifices our soldiers make—not just on the battlefield but long after they return home. Lina LaSalle’s journey is raw and emotional, shedding light on the lasting effects of war, the weight of PTSD, and the challenges of motherhood in the wake of trauma. The author beautifully captures the complexity of Lina’s struggles, her resilience, and the healing power of home, family, and unexpected connections. Set against the lush backdrop of Puerto Rico, the story is both heartbreaking and hopeful, a reminder of the unseen battles many veterans face. I was captivated from beginning to end and deeply moved by this poignant tribute to those who serve.

This review is for the free audio version provided by Netgalley. At the Island's Edge is a beautiful read in the category of women's fiction and I enjoyed the writing style and the well drawn out cast of characters. If you are looking for an immersive reading experience and enjoy strong female characters who overcome difficulties in a messy and still realistic way, you will enjoying curling up with At the Island's Edge. I found the main character, Lina, to be flawed, strong, and fiercely loyal to her family, despite herself. Having been to Puerto Rico a few times myself, I loved the descriptions of the island, the food, the language snippets and the overall sense that I was again transported back there. The supporting cast held my interest as well and I loved the narrator's voice and how she portrayed each person so well in the audio! If you enjoyed The Women by Kristen Hannah or are a fan of Nora Roberts, Anita Cruz, or simply enjoy an immersive read, this one is for you!