Summer on the Little Cornish Isles – Phillippa Ashley

“It was such a lovely name; so evocative and catchy. Who could possibly resist popping into a place called ‘The Starfish Studio’?” (Quotation pos. 68)

Content

The moment Poppy McGregor sees the gallery “The Starfish Studio” for the first time during a holiday week with her boyfriend Dan at the Isles of Scilly; she immediately falls in love because it reminds her of her dreams to one day run a gallery. Now, three years later, Poppy and Dan are taking on the almost closed Starfish Studio on St. Piran´s, just the now it I is only Polly moving to the small island, because Dan has left her just one week ago and is now going to live with Eve. Poppy still is determined to re-open The Starfish Studio, making it successful again. The owner’s grandson, the charismatic, famous nature photographer Jake Pendower, soon is a reliable friend, but he has lost his fiancée four years ago and still mourning and Poppy is sure there never could be more, or could there?

Theme and Genre

A romantic story about art, family, loss, love and new beginnings

Characters

The characters are well drawn and likeable, and who would not love Leo, the headstrong cat.

Plot and Writing

The story is settled on the Isles of Scilly, although St. Piran’s and most of the local places exist only in the author’s imagination, and the storyline is told chronologically. The plot of the novel is an entertaining mixture between funny and thought provoking. The language is enjoyable to read.

Conclusion

A funny, romantic feel-good story, a perfect read to bring summer in your thoughts.