Beatriz Williams is clearly one of the best authors in historical fiction. Every time I read one of her books, I proclaim that book to be my favorite. Its's no different with Under the Stars.

Audrey Fisher has been tasked to act as a sober coach for her movie star mother, Meredith Fisher. Meredith's storied career is at risk unless she remains sober. Audrey herself is processing a recent painful breakup with her husband. So a summer spent on the remote Winthrop island at their family home, Greyfriars, should be a quiet diversion for both women. That is until Audrey discovers a treasure trove of priceless very old paintings that have been in the basement of her estranged father, Mike Kennedy's bar. The paintings depict a mysterious woman, Providence Dare, who they believe may be Mike's ancestor. We learn about Providence, who in 1846 is flees Boston, in the midst of a murder charge, aboard the steamship Atlantic. Tragically the ship is grounded off the coast of Winthrop. The story of these three women are entwined through centuries of family secrets and tragedy.

If you've read Williams' other books, you will note she leaves us lots of Easter Eggs to discover and revisits beloved characters...hello Monk!

Once again, Beatriz Williams delivers! #Beatrizbinge

Under the Stars by Beatriz Williams completely swept me away to coastal New England. The story follows Audrey, a talented chef trying to step out of her movie star mother’s shadow, and Meredith, a glamorous but troubled actress battling her demons. During their return to Winthrop Island, Audrey discovers a chest of mysterious paintings in her father’s old cellar. I loved the dual timeline that connected them to Providence Dare, the 19th century woman fleeing scandal. This book is full of mystery, romance, and buried secrets. It’s emotional and gorgeously written, just another reason why I adore Beatriz Williams. Her storytelling never disappoints! This was such an excellent read, and I’m already looking forward to reading more of her novels.

Under the Stars by Beatriz Williams is a great historical fiction that you should add to your list.

I have enjoyed several books by Ms. Williams in the past, and I can this one to that list. She creates an interesting dual timeline with a character cast that is engaging, and keeps the reader on their toes with a few twists and mysteries sprinkled throughout.

If you are a fan of historical fiction, entertaining female characters, and enjoy the author’s previous works, then this novel is for you.

4.5/5 stars

Thank you NG and Random House Publishing Group - Ballantine | Ballantine Books for this wonderful arc and in return I am submitting my unbiased and voluntary review and opinion.

I am posting this review to my GR and Bookbub accounts immediately and will post it to my Amazon, Instagram, and B&N accounts upon publication on 7/29/25.

I love Beatriz Williams and was so excited to read her newest. You have to pick this up if you’re a fan of her previous work! Such a great storyline with interesting cast of characters.

This is my favorite Beatriz Williams book! Once again, she wrote a beautiful story with amazing characters.