Stories that center on family are often fan favorites and definitely head my must read list. Donna Alward respects her readers by creating a warm engaging environment for her less than perfect characters. Perfect is over rated. SUMMER ON LOVERS ISLAND captures your attention and heart right from the start and there are times when you can't decide what ending you wish for. No easy answers and Donna Alward lets us experience the angst along with her amazing characters.

SUMMER ON LOVERS ISLAND is a story about taking a step outside of yourself to see prospects. In the case of Lizzie Howard much of the stress is self-induced -- family and job pressures -- but equally a stoic personal attitude. Quite a defense mechanism created to protect and guard an already fragile heart. Change of scenery and pace is what Lizzie finds in Jewell Cove a small close knit community that was ready with a warm welcome. Lizzie didn't realize that this was missing from her very busy life. In Jewell Cove Lizzie begins to appreciate this small town but years of practice have taught her how to carefully build a wall between her and people that might disappoint or expect too much. Lizzie fears she can't live up to other people expectations and is so concerned about that she fails to live.

Life in Jewell Cove is a far departure from working in a big city emergency room. Lizzie isn't used to getting close to her patients and developing any sort of relationship with the people she treats. She is determined to fight and deny any feelings of contentment in this place where she doesn't see a future personal or career. Working with Josh in his medical practice isn't the high pressure environment she is used to but if she is honest with herself it brings a great deal of satisfaction. Having learned a difficult lesson and acknowledging her time in Jewell Cove is short Lizzie fights any attraction between herself and the handsome doctor Josh. Neither one is a good candidate for a relationship. But they begin to develop a friendship -- any sort of fling would only damage that friendship and both Lizzie and Josh are at a point where they need a good friend.

There is such a fine line between friendship and love. Something I've always believed in is that you should marry your best friend.

SUMMER ON LOVERS ISLAND is the third book in the Jewell Cove/i> series by Donna Alward. I did not find any issues with the fact that I had somehow missed the first in this wonderful series. The story definitely stands on its own. The town created by Alward is inhabited by a very interesting mixed bag of characters who make you laugh and sigh. Problems abound in this little piece of heaven which makes it all the more real. Can't help but hope there is a book four.