In this unexpected and charming new novel, Beth Moran introduces readers to Emmie Brown, who has taken on her adoptive mother’s food stand in the tiny local airport since her mother’s death. Having known about her adoption her entire life, Emmie is totally surprised to find a secret stash of letters and a hidden photo from “G,” changing everything she thought she knew about Nellie Brown. Taking her to the Isle of Siskin and introducing her to the Hawkins family, Emmie’s life is suddenly full of people and color, especially when her friendship with Pip Hawkins blossoms, and she must choose between happiness, the truth, her old life, and the chance at a new future. Emmie is a fantastic, relatable protagonist whose struggles are deeply relatable, emotional, and absolutely charming, and readers will love seeing her grow and develop as an individual and in her relationships with other characters over the course of the novel. The atmosphere and beautiful rural locations on Siskin are masterfully crafted and are brought to life in incredible detail, drawing readers into the story. A great, relaxing, and romantic read, fans looking to escape to a beautiful rural island will love this fantastic new book.

Beth Moran's '"Have I Told You Lately" is a touching and nurturing current novel dealing with issues of identity and belonging and family secrets. This tale is about a girl named Emmie Brown who has always known that she was adopted. When Emmie's mother dies, she stumbles across a secret photo and a string of letters mysteriously signed "G," which turns her whole world upside down. Emmie's need for discovery takes her to beautiful Isle of Siskin, and there she meets the friends who become the welcoming Hawkins family. During the journey, Emmie's life makes a surprising turn when she enters new friendships and in all likelihood, love.

Emmie Brown is fully well rounded and undergoes considerable metamorphosis through this highly captivating novel. From the very beginning, Emmie is reserved and introverted; it takes a journey within herself for her to explore and open up to new experiences. Crucial to Emmie's altered sense of being is the Hawkins family, especially Pip Hawkins, who opens up her closed and lonely world into the love that she always wanted and the support that was previously denied. There is some really heartwarming interaction between Emmie and the Hawkins bunch. These moments add so much to the story.

The writing that Beth Moran displays is at once evocative and entrancing. The reader can feel what's going on with Emmie throughout her journey, thoroughly invested in how it plays out. The words brush colorful paintings of the Isle of Siskin, giving the reader a vision of a marvelous, deep setting as their reading progresses. Dialogues flow as naturally as one would expect from real people, letting the characters' individuality come through. The story has a measured pace that utilizes peaks of tension with intervals of relief to maintain the reader's attention on Emmie's quest.

She discovers family, identity, and the influence of family secrets in the novel, all of which stimulate revelation-the truth must be told, even when painful, and the healing power of connection and love. "Moreover, it is definitely a thing for life." The message here is also about the kind of value that is said to be that of resilience and courage over facing one's past and embracing the future one has yet to see.

The use of foreshadowing, symbolism, and varied character development are some of the techniques that Moran uses to enrich the narrative. The concealed photo and letters serve as important symbols of the secrets that Emmie's life revolves around. The story's pace is maintained by continuous build-up in tension and the emotional layers.

The speed of "Have I Told You Lately" was rather good, and then the chapters flowed easily into one another so that it was very pleasant to read. It is with Moran's easy writing enough for the widest readership: contemporary women's fiction and stuff about personal growth.

"Have I Told You Lately" is a touching, cheerful, emotional novel that speaks to readers within. It provides insight into identity and the ability of family wrapped in a beautifully written narrative. Themes such as resilience and love make the novel a heart-touching read and leave the readers with a sweet memory.

For strong character development and emotional depth in contemporary fiction, I recommend "Have I Told You Lately" to my readers. This book really does appeal to any reader looking for a good, self-reflective emotional tale with family ties. If you've read Beth Moran before or you're new to her writing, this book will undoubtedly leave you feeling uplifted and inspired.

What a totally dreamy story. I loved it. Lots of history for Emmie finding he family and a tale of how someone can almost be controlled to living a certain way to keep others happy and then getting the chance to discover themselves. And just as I thought Emmie and Pip were getting a happy ending a curve ball was threw in making me wonder what would happen next. A tale of two different islands and lots of possibilities. Also the mystery Emmie hater leads you to think it’s a certain person but my mother’s instinct lead me to guessing who it was

I had the absolute pleasure of diving into another beautiful story by one of my favorite women’s fiction authors, Beth Moran. If you’re searching for a read that layers themes of grief, growth, and tangled family secrets, then you’re in for a treat with this one.

Emmie is a relatable character who wakes up one day and realizes that she craves more than her routine of baking pasties at her airport shop. With her only source of connection being her friend Blessing, it’s hard to blame her for feeling a bit lost and alone. But instead of staying trapped in her monotonous existence, Emmie sets off to the enchanting Isle of Siskin to discover her mother’s past and pursue the charming Pip, the guy she’s had a crush on for ages. Little does she know that this journey will bring a mix of joy and heartbreak unlike anything she could have anticipated.

What truly makes this story stand out is meeting Pip’s vibrant family and friends who embrace Emmie as if she’s already a part of their world. It’s like being thrown into a whirlwind of warmth and acceptance, which is a refreshing take on the typical “found family” trope. On her quest to find the elusive “G” from her mother’s letters, Emmie encounters unexpected challenges like being stalked and framed by someone with serious issues against her. My heart really ached for her as the twists unfolded, especially when we delve into the painful history surrounding her mom.

Moran has this amazing knack for creating characters that feel as real as your best friends. As Emmie works through her own family secrets, I cheered her on, hoping she found a slice of happiness amidst the turmoil. The emotional depth is just… Wow.

If you love stories that uplift your spirits while taking you on a character-driven journey through stunning settings, then grab a cozy blanket, maybe a few pasties, and lose yourself in this lovely tale. I assure you, Emmie’s adventure will resonate with you long after you turn the last page.

Thank you to Ms. Moran for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.

I have a particular fondness for visiting the locations or areas where books are set – but, despite much googling, it seems the Isle of Siskin with its direct flights from Sherwood Airport is a figment of the author’s imagination. But it’s an exceptionally well drawn one – with its dependence on agriculture, its erratic public transport, and its community where everyone knows everybody else’s business. And from letters left by Emmie’s recently deceased adoptive mother Nell, it seems it has some significance in their personal history – the enigmatic “G” was clearly important to her, he lived there, and she’d like to find out more.

Her life is entirely focused on the pasty stall they ran together at the airport – rising daily before dawn, with no life of her own, driven by the work ethic Nell instilled in her and a determination to keep the business going whatever the personal cost. But maybe there’s more to life – and when new friend Pip (“the hot farmer”) heads home to Siskin for perhaps the last time, she decides the time has come to take a well-earned break, finding herself on the same flight thanks to the welcome intervention and organisational skills of best friend Blessing.

With no plans made, everything goes badly wrong on her arrival – feeling overwhelmed, she thinks she should maybe head home on the next flight. But she ends up staying in the new B+B run by Pip’s sister – a test run for when it opens, at no charge – and finds herself totally drawn into his large family. Alongside continuing to read those letters, she’s gradually able to make sense of Nell’s past and the experiences that made her cut herself off from life – but also to get closer to Pip, seeing if their friendship might turn into something more. But, as she grows in confidence and begins to feel at home on the island, seeing the possibility of a rather different future, it becomes clear that her presence isn’t welcomed by everyone.

The mystery at the book’s centre is fascinating as it slowly unfolds with unexpected twists and turns: the romance is gentle and very slow-burn, but adds an extra emotional touch to the story. And I was in Emmie’s corner throughout as she began to blossom – really deserving the possibility of a fresh start and some future happiness. But the relationship I perhaps enjoyed the most was her friendship with Blessing – just the person she so needed to watch her back and offer a helping hand when things became difficult, but with her interventions adding a lot of the book’s humour too. All the characters are beautifully drawn though – the obsessive ex-girlfriend, the wider family with their own relationships, and the smaller cameos of the island’s particularly quirky residents.

Emmie’s journey was one I thoroughly enjoyed – emotional at times, but very uplifting by the story’s end – and all those other elements made the whole book particularly engaging. Beautifully written as always, this was a lovely read – and one I’d recommend to all.

Emmie is getting fed up with living her narrowly confined life, and when the lease for the kiosk at the airport where she serves pasties to hungry travelers comes due for renewal, it turns out to be the opportunity to move her life in a different direction. Although change is hard for Emmie, she begins to make decisions that result in living life on her terms.

Emmie has spent her entire life just existing. She’s stuck in a rut until she discovers old letters to her mother that evoke secrets Emmie never realized she had.
I liked Pip and the potential for he and Emmie.
I wished Emmie would have unleashed on a certain character who was absolutely vile to her because it was warranted.
Nell’s love story was heartbreaking.
And everyone absolutely needs a best friend like Blessing who schemes to make things happen because sometimes we all need the nudge or the big push.
See how Hot Farmer and Pasty Girl fare!

I have loved each and every one of Moran's books and every time they come with the 'this is her best book to date' line. This hasn't changed.

Have I Told You Lately is my new, new favourite of Moran's works. It's heartwarming, addictive, uplifting and everything good! A wonderful story of discovery and deserving second chances.

It has a thoroughly delightful cast of characters, a Blessing in disguise and a fantastic community.

Emotive and enjoyable.

Emmie has worked at the airport kiosk with her mother since she was young. Now that her mother is gone, Emmie isn't sure if she wants to keep doing it. Her mom had many strict rules and fun just wasn't part of her life.

On a whim she takes her first ever flight to an island that is home to a cute guy who is one of her customers. She is also looking for clues about her mother's past that she never talked about.

I liked the mystery aspect to the story as well as the romantic side. I enjoyed learning more about the past and what actually motivated her mother's attitude about romance.

A fun and easy read.

Thanks to netgalley and Boldwood Books for the arc.

This was such a lovely romance about finding love and starting a new life on an impossibly beautiful British island. I know this has been done before, but rarely in such a sure and measured manner. I didn’t once roll my eyes at a missed communication, or clench my teeth at some trite comment or missed plot opportunity. I just cheered for the characters, rooting for them to find themselves and each other. I simply loved this.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Book Review: Have I Told You Lately by Beth Moran

I had high expectations going into Have I Told You Lately by Beth Moran, and let me tell you, this book absolutely delivered. If you’re looking for a heartwarming, uplifting story full of love, friendship, and self-discovery, this novel is a must-read.

The story follows Emmie Brown, who’s always known she was adopted. Raised by her mother Nellie, Emmie never doubted her mom’s love, despite Nellie’s reserved nature. But everything changes when Emmie uncovers a hidden stash of letters and a photo after her mother’s death. The discovery sends Emmie on a quest to uncover the identity of the mysterious ‘G’ who wrote the letters, and her journey takes her to the Isle of Siskin. It’s there that she meets the lively Hawkins family, and suddenly her quiet life is turned upside down.

I absolutely loved how Beth Moran brought the Isle of Siskin to life—it’s vibrant and full of energy, and I could almost feel the sea breeze as I read. Emmie’s journey of self-discovery is so relatable; at first, she’s overwhelmed by the bustling world of the Hawkins family, but as she spends more time on the island, she opens up in ways she never imagined. It’s impossible not to cheer her on as she learns to let go of her fears and embrace the new possibilities that come her way.

One of my favorite parts of the book was the blossoming friendship between Emmie and Pip Hawkins. The chemistry between them is undeniable, but it’s not just about romance—it’s about Emmie learning to trust others and herself. I could feel the warmth and support of the Hawkins family, and it made me wish I could be a part of their close-knit group.

As Emmie uncovers the truth about ‘G,’ the emotional weight of her discoveries builds, and I found myself so invested in the choices she had to make. The tension between revealing long-held family secrets and finding her own happiness was beautifully portrayed, and I really appreciated how Beth Moran handled these sensitive topics with grace and honesty.

The ending of Have I Told You Lately was everything I hoped for—emotional, satisfying, and full of hope. It’s the kind of book that leaves you feeling uplifted and reminded that life is full of unexpected turns, and sometimes, those turns lead to the most wonderful places.

In short, Have I Told You Lately is a beautiful story about love, family, and finding the courage to step into the future. I’d recommend this book to anyone who loves heartwarming tales with a touch of mystery and a whole lot of heart. Beth Moran has once again created a novel that will stay with me long after I’ve finished reading.

Rating: 5/5
A perfect, feel-good read that I couldn’t put down!

This is a heartwarming and uplifting read that will resonate with fans of feel-good, contemporary romance, particularly those who enjoy stories about self-discovery, family secrets, and the transformative power of love and friendship.

Sweet, sweet Emmie. I was so happy to see her take control of her life and go forth with gusto! Her time on the Isle of Siskin was transformative for her and at times, deeply uncomfortable to read about. The story unfolded in a way I wasn't expecting but was incredibly satisfying. Highly recommend!

Emmie is at a crossroads. She is running the airport kiosk her mother started keeping customers happy with coffee and pastries. When a passenger she helps gives her a lottery ticket Emmie does not expect anything but she wins! It’s not a lot but enough to take a spur of the moment trip to a small island where a mysterious man she met at the airport lives.

The best thing about Beth Moran’s books is they feature a woman or group of women trying to figure out what is best for them. A little clean romance splashed in and you have a great read. I loved the setting of this book and how open Emmie was to new adventures, even though this is not typical of her.

Emmie has worked in her mum's kiosk at the airport since as long as she can remember. Her mum baked pasties for selling there and now that her mum has passed away it's Emmie's turn to take over the kiosk.
The problem is Emmie isn't sure that that's what she wants to do with the rest of her life. Her mum was very strict and exacting. Emmie hhas only one friend and has never been anywhere or done anything.

Emmie has always been attracted to Pip who passes through the airport on his way to the Isle of Siskin where he lives.
One day Emmie aided by her only friend who works at the airport she decides to follow Pip and have a holiday on the island.
What is drawing her there? Is it just Pip or is it something more mysterious ?

I loved this story as I do all books by Beth Moran. I don't even have to look at the synopsis.
The story in this book has some surprising turns and some romance along the way as Emmie finds out answers to questions she has about her mum's past and why she lived life the way she did.
This kept me page turning until the end. Loved it !

As usual, the story is set in Nottinghamshire, near the Sherwood forest. It is also set on the Isle of Siskin in the Irish Sea. Emmie has worked in her mum's highly popular pasty kiosk in Nottingham airport since the age of 13. We meet her at a time when she is re-evaluating her life and has a family mystery to solve. The story is one of taking chances, personal growth, and chasing your dreams. There's friendship, family, hidden secrets, new love, and a gorgeous setting. Emmie faces a lot of challenges and overcomes them really well, showing how strong and independent she really is. There's a fair smattering of heartbreak, but plenty of heartwarming content, too. There's a lot going on in the story, as past and present collide, and Emmie learns more about the past life of the woman she called mum. There was some great descriptive writing and a strong sense of place. The characters were well written, and some were deliciously flawed. Beth Moran is definitely one of my go-to writers for comfort reads, and 'Have I Told You Lately' ticks all the right boxes. Perfect for fans of Jessica Redland, Shari Low, and Jennifer Page.

This was an enjoyable read. The characters were well written, and I enjoyed the alpaca farm storyline. A touching and heartwarming story.

Thank you so much to NetGalley and Boldwood books for my copy of Have I Told You Lately by Beth Moran in exchange for an honest review. It published January 24, 2025.
This totally hits all the notes I’ve to expect from Beth Moran. I loved getting to travel to an Irish isle, and I loved all of the character development. The cast of characters was so endearing. I’m going to miss them!

Beth Moran’s Have I Told You Lately is a heartfelt exploration of identity, belonging, and the healing power of connection.

The tale opens with Emmie Brown, a reserved young woman who has always known she was adopted. Nellie, Emmie’s mom, was a strong and loving presence in her life. After her death, Emmie uncovers some surprising secrets – a hidden photo and mysterious letters signed by ‘G.’ These revelations turn Emmie’s world upside down and lead her on a journey of self-discovery.

Moran set Emmie’s quest on the picturesque Isle of Siskin. As the island’s beauty unfolds, so does Emmie. The noisy, loving, and chaotic Hawkins family is really different from Emmie’s quiet and isolated life. Moran shows us what unconditional family love looks like.

This book’s all about Emmie and her relationship with Pip, a lovely islander who’s her rock as she deals with some heavy stuff. Their connection builds up naturally and the love story feels completely genuine.

The best thing about Have I Told You Lately is how it mixes up all the themes. This book’s not just about romance and family; it’s a moving story about courage, finding your worth, and how our choices matter. Emmie’s hunt for “G”‘s identity is a big part of what makes the book so gripping—she wants the truth, but she fears what she might find.

Moran’s writing is beautiful and moving; you really feel what Emmie’s going through. Beth Moran crafts a narrative that is both heartwarming and profound, reminding us that the bravest thing we can do is let ourselves be seen and loved. This book is heartbreaking in places and leaves you with a lump in your throat and a smile on your face.

Have I Told You Lately by Beth Moran

I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

Blurb

One photo and a handful of letters can change everything.

Emmie Brown has always known she was adopted. Nellie Brown sacrificed everything to make their life together comfortable and, while not the most demonstrative or warm woman, Emmie never doubted her devotion. But, when Emmie finds a stash of letters and a hidden photo after her mother’s death, everything she has believed changes in an instant. And she won’t be able to rest until she finds the mysterious ‘G’ who sent the letters.

Emmie’s quest takes her to the breathtakingly beautiful Isle of Siskin and into the home of the gregarious, fiercely loyal Hawkins family. After an isolated and introverted life, the burst of colour and noise is overwhelming. But soon Emmie feels her heart begin to open, her mind begin to dream. And as her friendship with kind and gorgeous islander Pip Hawkins gets closer, endless possible futures draw into focus.

But the discovery of ‘G’s true identity will mean Emmie has to choose. One of her choices would mean revealing secrets hidden for decades, one could lead to happiness, but both will need Emmie to be braver than she’s ever been…

My Opinion

Beth Moran writes delightful novels and this was no exception. Following Emmie on her journey to find out more about her family’s past made for such an easy read – there was so much going on that I just had to keep reading to find out what would happen next. Emmie was a character that I liked from the very beginning. Beth Moran has once again written a stunning book that I would not hesitate to recommend.

Rating 4/5