A year ago, ex-Delta Force operator Steven Roark left the rigors of combat behind to run fishing charters in Hope Harbor, decompress, and talk some sense into his kid brother. Business is good–but making peace with his past is more challenging than he expected.
First-grade teacher Holly Miller leads a quiet, low-profile existence — until she’s recruited to advocate for a cause that’s dear to her heart. When she solicits Steven’s assistance, sparks fly — especially after they find themselves on opposite sides of an issue that disrupts their placid seaside community.
As these two seemingly incompatible souls search for common ground, might they discover a deeper connection–and find that love can banish darkness and light the way to a future filled with promise?
Irene Hannon is the best-selling author of more than 35 novels. Her books have been honored with the coveted RITA Award from Romance Writers of America, the HOLT Medallion, the Reviewer’s Choice Award from Romantic Times BOOKreviews magazine and the Daphne du Maurier Award for mystery/suspense. Irene and her husband make their home in Missouri, USA. Irene invites you to visit her at her website, http://www.irenehannon.com.
My Impressions:
Irene Hannon, author of the Hope Harbor series, is one of the reasons I have added a trip to the Oregon coast to my bucket list. While the small coastal town of Hope Harbor is fictional, Hannon’s descriptions of the beauties of the area have captured my imagination. But until I can make travel plans, I continue to revisit the community that boasts of caring, if sometimes quirky, citizens. The sixth trip, Starfish Pier, is as good as the first 5 books in the series — it is a recommended read!
I love how Hannon introduces new characters in each of her books in this series, yet includes old favorites. Starfish Pier focuses on relative newcomers to Hope Harbor. Holly Miller, Steven Roark, and Pete Wallace all have their reasons to make Hope Harbor their home. The three are definitely their own individuals, but as their stories intertwine, the reader becomes invested in each. Starfish Pier is billed as a contemporary romance, but I feel it is more about the importance of supportive relationships, although I won’t deny I did love the sparks between Holly and Steven! 😉 The theme of life having worth and purpose plays out in various scenarios. Real life issues are discussed in natural ways, while there is an emphasis on hope which is always a part of this series.
Starfish Pier can be read as a standalone novel, but I recommend you begin at the beginning. And if you need a series to binge read, this one is the perfect choice. Plus, there will be more to come. I cannot wait!
Recommended.
Audience: adults.
(Thanks to Revell for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
I like Charley! 🙂 The taco stand owner and operator.
Me too! I need to know who he really is!