New Beginnings is a very sweet book about Sophie, a young woman struggling to take care of her little sister after the pair of them are orphaned. Inheriting a house from a mysterious benefactor seems like a gift from God for Sophie, even if she does have to uproot herself and Mia from Sydney and move to Hobart, Tasmania, for it. This was well-plotted out, with a completely plausible reason for a stranger leaving Sophie her property which is revealed in a clever and intriguing way. Mark O'Connor is the Hobart attorney handling the property transfer who finds himself hopelessly drawn to Sophie.
I'd just like to add in here that I know Hobart very well; my in-laws live there and I usually spend a couple of weeks there every year. Iris Blobel does a nice job drawing the charming, vintage feeling of Hobart for us in words, though there are times when I'd have liked to see a little more descriptive narrative to fill in a few slightly awkward gaps. The end of the book in particular feels rushed, with a promised and anticipated trip to see the seals skipped over completely. I'd have liked to read the actual proposal scene as well, rather than just have Mark planning it.
I think New Beginnings might be the only book I've ever read which is set in Hobart, come to think of it. I might have to remedy that by going and reading the rest of Iris Blobel's Beginnings series, which are apparently also set there. If this one is any guide, they'll be well worth the effort. Four stars.
Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book for review through Reader’s Favorite.