Review: Borrowed Sunshine - Hilton Head Island #2

Borrowed Sunshine book cover on blue background

I got to read Borrowed Sunshine by Ivy Emerson before Christmas, and it has lingered in my mind ever since then as an excellent Christian book that points to Jesus Christ. For anyone seeking a book where God is clearly referenced and He guides the story, the Hilton Head Island series has become one of my favourites.

For full disclosure, I was a beta reader for this book; however, all opinions are my own and were formed upon my initial reading.

Book Synopsis

I've always wanted people to like me…
I craved their approval...
Now, I am tangled in a mess, with no idea how to escape…
Everything feels better at the beach...
So, I steal away for a two-week vacation on Hilton Head Island…
Except... he is here.

I've always wanted to be alone…
I've seen firsthand how cruelly life can snatch away those you love…
I would rather stay alone than endure another loss…
My plan is simple: Stay single and avoid making new friends…
My plan was perfect…
Except... she is here.

Source: Amazon

Book Thoughts

Based on the initial interactions that Weston and Becky had in Kayak Girl, I knew they would end up being a great couple that would challenge each other to become better people. Am I ever grateful that I didn't have to wait long to read their story! In fact, having both books about these sisters back-to-back made for a special reading experience. There are elements that are discussed in both that provide an amazing picture into their sisterly bond and how they care for one another, despite the unique challenges that they face. With Becky's story, it's refreshing to have her seek the best for others while working through her fears and financial issues. I love that she and Weston aren't afraid to sharpen each other out of love and that they continually point to God in their interactions.

While Ivy doesn't shy away from the difficulties of life, such as grief, abuse, and family pain, she is skilled at painting a picture of hope for readers. I found that each chapter grabbed my attention and had me reading non-stop to see how Weston and Becky would grow in their faith and understanding of God. This book excels at communicating the truth of our identity in Christ and infuses gentle humour along the way. Readers will enjoy the spiritual transformations that take place and the supporting characters that play a part in this heartwarming story. One of the signs that I'm immersed in a good book is that even if I don't have much in common with the characters (I'm definitely not an athlete), I can still picture myself having a conversation with them. Although I'll have to wait a little longer for the next book in this series, I know that it will be worth the wait!

Book Summary

Format of book: 📱
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
Recommendation: 👍

Comments

Christian Book Review Programs

Over time, I've been on the hunt for Christian book review programs that readers can join. As a result, I've been able to compile the following list which may be of interest if you are seeking review copies of Christian books. This list mostly applies to print and ebooks, although some publishers offer audiobooks as well. If further information is available for any of the publishers below (or any missing publishers), please let me know as I am happy to update this list—thank you! Please note that you can also search for these publishers on NetGalley and other review sites in case there are no review programs available or you don't qualify for one 😊 List last updated: June 4, 2026 Christian Publishers 10ofThose Availability: US, Canada, and UK residents Format: Only books published by 10ofThose qualify for review requests so as to avoid impeding with other Christian book review programs Genre: Christian non-fiction, children's books Email for availability and eligibilit...

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