Escape to the windswept shores of Sanctuary Island, where wild horses gallop through salty breezes and broken hearts find solace in love’s gentle embrace. Lily Everett’s Sanctuary Island series, a gem in contemporary romance, invites readers to a tiny Atlantic refuge where second chances bloom and family ties mend. With its evocative setting and heartfelt characters, this saga is a cozy retreat for anyone craving a romantic getaway.
From the first page, Sanctuary Island captivates with its promise of healing and hope. Whether you’re a romance aficionado or new to the genre, the series’ blend of emotional depth and small-town charm makes it a must-read. Let’s dive into the world of Sanctuary Island and discover why it’s a beloved escape for readers worldwide.
How Sanctuary Island Began
Lily Everett, a Virginia native with a lifelong passion for romance, crafted Sanctuary Island inspired by her childhood in the Blue Ridge Mountains. Drawing on her love for misty coastal landscapes and stories of redemption, she created a fictional island that feels like home. Published by St. Martin’s Paperbacks, the series debuted in 2013, spinning off from Everett’s Billionaire Brothers novellas, which introduced the island’s enchanting backdrop. Everett’s goal was simple: to weave tales of love and forgiveness against a setting as vivid as her hometown memories.
The Heart of Sanctuary Island
The Sanctuary Island series spans six novels, each a standalone romance interwoven with recurring characters and the island’s wild horses. The first book, Sanctuary Island (2013), follows Ella Preston, who arrives with her sister to reconnect with their estranged mother. Sparks fly when Ella meets Grady Wilkes, a scarred handyman, and their slow-burn romance unfolds amidst themes of forgiveness and trust. Shoreline Drive (2014) shifts to veterinarian Ben Faulkner, whose gruff exterior softens for pregnant Merry Preston in a marriage-of-convenience tale. Heartbreak Cove (2015) pairs Sheriff Andie Shepard with loner Sam Brennan, blending family dynamics and healing through their bond with a shy child. Home for Christmas (2015) delivers holiday warmth as Libby Leeds and Owen Shepard find love amid festive island traditions.
Everett’s stories shine through their lush, sensory-rich setting—think crashing waves and horse-dotted meadows—paired with themes of second chances, family reconciliation, and personal growth. The island itself is a character, its natural beauty a catalyst for emotional transformation. Fans praise the series’ balance of humor, heart, and heat, with tender love scenes that prioritize emotional connection over explicitness. This blend of women’s fiction and romance makes Sanctuary Island a haven for readers seeking both depth and escapism.
Why Sanctuary Island Resonates
Sanctuary Island’s magic lies in its ability to feel both timeless and intimate. Readers are drawn to its relatable characters—flawed, resilient, and searching for connection—who mirror real-life struggles with family and self-worth. The series’ small but devoted fanbase cherishes its cozy, immersive world, often comparing it to Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove for its interconnected community. Critics, including Publishers Weekly, laud Everett’s nuanced plotting and emotional depth, cementing the series as a standout in contemporary romance. Its lasting appeal is its promise: no matter how broken you feel, love and a wild island can mend you.
- Publication Years: 2013–2017
- Number of Books: 6
- Genre: Contemporary Romance
- Publisher: St. Martin’s Paperbacks
Ready to lose yourself in a world of wild horses and heartfelt romance? Grab Sanctuary Island and let Lily Everett sweep you away to a place where love always finds a way!