A Summer of Firsts

changes lead to fresh starts and new connections in these two emotional tales

The Goodbye Quilt—Susan Wiggs

Linda Davis is driving her daughter, Molly, across the country to start college. As her only child readies for this big change, Linda is torn between excitement for Molly and heartache for herself. Who will she be when she is no longer needed in her role as mom? On the trip, Linda pieces together the scraps that make up Molly’s young life—the hem of a christening gown, a snippet from a costume. In the stitching of each bit of fabric, Linda discovers that the memories of a shared journey can come together in a way that will keep them both warm in the years to come.

First Time in Forever—Sarah Morgan

It’s been a summer of firsts for Emily Donovan. New to Puffin Island, and newly a parent to her niece, Lizzy, she finds her life virtually unrecognizable. Between safeguarding Lizzy, keeping their secrets, and her own overwhelming fear of the ocean—which surrounds her!—Emily has lost count of the number of “just breathe” pep talks she’s given herself. And that’s before charismatic local yacht club owner Ryan Cooper kisses her… Can the island work its magic and get Emily to take the biggest leap of trust of all—putting her heart in someone else’s hands?