Jenny Colgan's Sunrise By the Sea is a poignant exploration of grief, healing, and the unexpected ways in which life can pull us back from the brink of despair. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Mount Polbearne, a remote tidal island in Cornwall, this novel is a testament to Colgan's ability to weave heartwarming tales that resonate with readers on a deeply emotional level.

The protagonist, Marisa Rosso, is a character many will find relatable. Her struggle to cope with the death of her beloved grandfather is portrayed with sensitivity and depth. Colgan delves into the complexities of grief, illustrating how it can isolate us from the world and make us feel as though we are stuck in time while everyone else moves forward. Marisa's decision to retreat to Mount Polbearne is both a physical and metaphorical journey to the edge of the world, where she hopes to find solace and clarity.

One of the novel's strengths is its setting. Colgan's depiction of the Cornish seaside village is vivid and enchanting, almost becoming a character in its own right. The remote island, with its tidal rhythms and quaint community, provides the perfect backdrop for Marisa's journey. The setting not only enhances the narrative but also serves as a metaphor for Marisa's emotional state—isolated yet beautiful, remote yet full of potential for connection.

As Marisa settles into her new life, she encounters a cast of colorful characters who challenge her desire for solitude. Her noisy Russian neighbor, who is a piano teacher, adds a layer of humor and warmth to the story. The interactions between Marisa and her neighbor are both entertaining and touching, highlighting the importance of human connection in the healing process. The community spirit of Mount Polbearne, struggling to revive itself after quarantine, mirrors Marisa's own struggle to re-engage with life.

Colgan expertly balances the themes of grief and healing with moments of levity and joy. The subplot involving the local bakery is particularly engaging, as it brings the community together and provides Marisa with a sense of purpose. The bakery, a symbol of warmth and comfort, becomes a focal point for Marisa's reintegration into the community. Through her involvement in saving the bakery, Marisa begins to rediscover her joy and sense of belonging.

The novel's exploration of community and connection is reminiscent of other works by authors like Jojo Moyes and Rosamunde Pilcher, who similarly capture the essence of small-town life and the power of human relationships. However, Colgan's unique voice and her ability to infuse her stories with humor and heart set her apart. Her characters are well-drawn and relatable, and her storytelling is both engaging and emotionally resonant.

One of the most compelling aspects of Sunrise By the Sea is its timely exploration of life after quarantine. The novel captures the collective sense of dislocation and the struggle to find normalcy in a changed world. Colgan's portrayal of a community coming together to rebuild and support one another is both hopeful and inspiring, offering readers a sense of optimism and resilience.

In conclusion, Sunrise By the Sea is a beautifully crafted novel that explores the themes of grief, healing, and the power of community. Jenny Colgan's ability to create relatable characters and immersive settings makes this book a standout in the genre of contemporary women's fiction. Readers will find themselves drawn into Marisa's journey, rooting for her as she navigates the challenges of loss and discovers the joy of living once again. This novel is a testament to the healing power of love, friendship, and the simple pleasures of life by the sea.

For those who enjoy stories of personal growth set against charming backdrops, Sunrise By the Sea is a must-read. It is a reminder that even at the end of the world, there is hope, connection, and the possibility of a new beginning.