Starred review from November 29, 2021
Bestseller Silver (One Day in December) spins gold from the story of two lost souls whose paths cross on a remote Irish island. London dating columnist Cleo Wilder is sent on assignment to Salvation Island to “self-couple,” à la the actor Emma Watson. Her plans are derailed by Boston photographer Mack Sullivan, who’s visiting the island as part of a break from his tattered marriage—and who intends to stay in his family’s lodge, not knowing that Cleo has rented it. Things get off to a rocky start, with both of them determined to depose the other from the property. Neither gives in and, when a storm hits and ferry service to the island is suspended, they have no choice but to cohabitate. Mack and Cleo’s nuanced characterizations allow readers to readily connect with their dilemmas and reasonings, and as they grow closer, the narrative showcases their sometimes winding path to genuine happiness. Laughter is abundant, owing mostly to the island’s eccentric residents, but Silver also tackles some heavier topics including divorce, identity, singlehood, and fatherhood. This celebration of unexpected love will leave readers thoroughly satisfied. Agent: Nelle Andrew, Rachel Mills Literary.