When lightning strikes Amberjack Shores during the worst storm of the season, it leaves more than just a cottage in flames. For the Dalton family and their extended clan, the road to recovery will test bonds old and new.

Determined to rebuild what was lost, Tyler discovers a fishing tournament with a prize that could solve their financial troubles. The only catch? He needs a partner, and the only logical choice is Becca—who has never held a fishing rod in her life. As training sessions blend with house hunting and rebuilding efforts, their undeniable connection grows stronger, even as the universe seems determined to keep them apart.

Meanwhile, Genese finds herself drawn to the gruff restaurant owner everyone else distrusts. Behind his harsh exterior, Mickey shows her a passion for food that ignites her own ambitions. But as she discovers her talent for creating spectacular dishes, she must decide if she’s ready to step out of others’ shadows and finally claim her independence.

With Matt fighting his own battles, Katie building her art career alongside Jake, and Linda bringing everyone together despite her health concerns, the family faces each challenge as they always have—together.

But just when they think they’ve weathered the worst, an unexpected arrival threatens to upend everything they’ve worked to rebuild. Some storms come without warning, and this one might just change Amberjack Shores forever.

Titles in The Amberjack Shores series include: The Island Inn ~ Island Secrets ~Island Storms ~ The Island Guest ~ Island Dreams ~ The Island Wedding ~

This is a clean, sweet romance with either closed doors or fade to black, or only kissing.

Title:  The Island Guest
Series:  The Amberjack Shores #4
Author:  Laura Abbott
Published:  June 25, 2025
My Rating:  4.5 stars

The Island Guest is the fourth title in the Amberjack Shores series.  It brings not only turmoil and uncertainty to the Dalton extended family, but also changes in relationships as well.

After the damage from the lightning strike in the previous story, the Daltons are left with questions on how to rebuild what was lost.  The solutions are varied, one well-intended but done in the wrong way, another will deepen bonds already growing, and another will show what the community feels about not only the Dalton family but this beautiful, unique location.

Matt will face a personal crisis with consequences.  He may not have been my favorite Dalton sibling for his brashness and rude behavior previously, but this time, there is severe fallout from his actions.  My heart broke a bit for this proud, driven man.

Relationships deepen for some, and another shows a person’s true nature, while opening a path to a different future.  And, as always, Linda, the Dalton family matriarch, stands firmly at the helm, perhaps a bit shaky from her health scare, but still determined to guide her loved ones through the storms that life brings.  Along with a few other developments.

I have thoroughly enjoyed this series, and it’s not done yet.  The Island Guest by Laura Abbott is a well-written, thoughtful, emotional saga of a family you cannot help but become involved with.  If you love a story that will take you away into the often rocky family connections and situations of a large, well-loved family, then you’d love this series.

I read this title through my Kindle Unlimited subscription.

This title is available at Amazon (affiliate link)