Katherine Parker is on the cusp of having everything she ever wanted–fame, money, and acclaim. So why isn’t she happy? In search of answers, she comes incognito to Hope Harbor on the Oregon coast for some R&R. Maybe in her secluded rental house overlooking the serene Pacific she’ll be able to calm the storm inside.
Coffee shop owner Zach Garrett has found his niche after a traumatic loss — and he has no plans to change the life he’s created. Nor does he want to get involved with his reticent new neighbor, whose past is shrouded in mystery. He’s had enough drama to last a lifetime. But when Katherine and Zach are recruited to help rehab a home for foster children, sparks fly. And as their lives begin to intersect, might they find more common ground than they expected . . . and discover that, with love, all things are possible?
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:
A return to trip to Hope Harbor is always greatly anticipated. The fictional small town on the coast of Oregon created by Irene Hannon is a special place. I love the small town vibe, the caring and slightly quirky people, and the wildlife that have a magical quality. Fans of the series will not be disappointed in book 7, Blackberry Beach. Love is in the air for more than one couple, and the reader will love the realistic struggles that each face to find their happily-ever-after. This is a must-read!
Blackberry Beach focuses on Kat, an incognito actress escaping from Hollywood craziness and Zach, a former high powered businessman turned coffee shop owner. The attraction between the two is immediate, yet Kat has a lot of decisions to make that potentially will keep them apart. While the reader may not be able to identify with Kat’s movie-star life, her struggle with doing what she loves and finding peace in her decisions will resonate. Zach has already found his purpose, and his unselfish advice marks a man of integrity. I liked these two characters very much! A secondary story follows Zach’s recently retired Aunt Stephanie and part-time barista Frank. This late in life romance — the first for Stephanie and second time around for Frank — is a great parallel and contrast to Kat and Zach’s relationship. Being a reader of, ahem, a certain age 😉 , I appreciated the more mature characters’ chance at love.
As always, this book features elements that fans of the Hope Harbor series love — Charley the taco truck owner, seagulls Gladys and Floyd, and sweet treats woven into the book. In the case of Blackberry Beach, Kat’s truffles will make you crave the chocolatey treat! Hannon plans more return trips to Hope Harbor, and I cannot wait!
Recommended.
Audience: adults.
(Thanks to Revell for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
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