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You Belong With Me
Beth Moran
Publication Date: February 8th, 2026
Boldwood Books
304 Pages
Amazon | Goodreads | Bookshop.org
Genre: General Fiction | Romance | Women’s Fiction
After reading this book, I want to visit the Isle of Siskin. This story is about Bluebell Beddoes, a woman whose track record of being a fiancée three different times makes her leave romance behind, and instead, she focuses on her community and her job as the local podcaster. Her peaceful life is brought down by a threat to the island’s future, and she tries to save her home. The arrival of Jonathan White makes matters worse because Blue has to decide if he is an unwanted guest or the help she needs to unlock the past. This book is a perfect example of Beth Moran’s type of “all the feels” story that adds a touch of mystery. The story is a poignant one about finding where you belong and finding the courage to trust again.
The Isle of Siskin feels like a character in its own right. Moran’s descriptions are vivid, and I want to get on a plane and visit right now. I could picture the greenery so clearly. I loved the vibe of found family. Moran’s books always give me a cozy feeling because they’re often about community. She always has amazing characters, even the supporting ones. They’re true to life and feel and act like real people—people you’d want to meet and hang out with. Her books always feel emotional, yet balanced with humour.
Romance isn’t my go-to genre, and while there is a romantic aspect, it isn’t the focus of the book. The heart of the book lies in Blue’s growth and learning to trust herself and not be afraid to try new things because she is so scared of failure. Blue, being an “almost bride” so many times, is handled with empathy. The dual plot about the saving of the island and Blue’s secrets kept me turning the pages and was interesting without being too over the top. It’s a heartwarming and witty tale that reminds the reader that our past mistakes don’t define our future.
As in most of this author’s books, this was an excellent feel-good story that uses the usual tropes in women’s fiction. And while some of the resolutions felt a little bit too tidy, it did bring me joy, and the writing style makes it impossible not like these characters. The journey of reading about Blue and her community was an entertaining one. This was the perfect weekend read that took me on a vacation to the Emerald Isle without having to pack a bag or fight airport lines.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC.
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