MY REVIEW
Review June 17, 2026 for the BookTour
This is the start of another beautiful new series by Kennedy Kerr. This time set on the stunning Isle of Skye. This rendition resurrects forgotten women’s history. It also celebrates close knit communities, fairy-tale second chances, long lasting romances and intriguing historical mysteries. Then there are the challenges of work and personal relationships, extended and new female friendships and unknown family connections.
The Scottish Island Inn focuses on the main character Sorrell: one of the Balhennie sisters who ran away years ago and cut off all communication with her family. In fact communication is a major engine in the plot. But it is more a lesson in what happens when we don’t speak to each other and in honesty— huge misunderstandings occur. Hearts get broken. As people think or imagine the worst. There are many good examples in the novel where even digital messaging gets misconstrued. As how often have messages come through that seem to convey negative tones. It is not always easy to decipher and miscommunication means emotional wounding. The digital era is great but it has its pitfalls and does not beat face to face where voice, tone and expression give away a great deal. Even words can be misleading but the rest often gives way to the truth.
Without doubt, the landscape plays a big part in this novel. It has presence that permeates every thought, word and deed. We can all appreciate the experience of going to a magnificent wild or natural location and the effect it has on our psyche. It allows us to breathe, unwind and regenerate. For Sorrell it does just that and more after she is betrayed by her partner of ten years: one she has both worked and lived with. And the first place she is compelled to go for healing is home. Because like most of us, it is where she feels safe, loved and appreciated.
But one worry is that although the landscape may not have changed, the people there may have. Yet she takes a risk and lands at her family’s residence. To see members she has not been in contact with for a decade. Except one of her sisters who continued writing to her and kept her up to date on all family matters. But Sorrell never once responded to her. How will they all feel when she lands on their doorstep? And yes, there will be shock and surprise but will they receive this prodigal daughter with open arms? And will she bump into her old sweetheart she left without warning, the night she fled? Well, as you can imagine, this visit will open a whole can of worms and stir up a huge pot of emotion and trouble.
I loved this story and its tender truths about relationships, families, romance, healing themes and female friendships. There is also a historical nugget amidst the modern dilemmas and in this one we learn about a condemned woman from the past who was part of Balhennie Castle’s history and what she did for love. One of the mysteries they explore, brings one pair closer.
It is easy to recommend The Scottish Island Inn and any novel of Kennedy Kerr’s as she writes beautifully, honestly, imaginatively and powerfully and addresses themes of importance to women— particularly. So I celebrate her talent on this book tour and encourage readers to give her exceptional stories a try— as I guarantee once you start you won’t be able to put any one of them down and will be immediately seeking out all of her releases. But a good place to start today is The Scottish Island Inn. It will make you smile, cheer, sigh and cry. A definite must read for 2026. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Bookouture and Netgalley for a review copy.
