Book Review: ‘Starfish Pier’ (Hope Harbor) by Irene Hannon

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?

Bestselling and award-winning author Irene Hannon invites you back to Hope Harbor–where hearts heal . . . and love blooms.

Irene Hannon, who writes both contemporary romance and romantic suspense, is the author of more than 50 novels. Her books have been honored with three coveted RITA awards from Romance Writers of America (the “Oscar” of romance fiction) and she is a member of that organization’s elite Hall of Fame. She has also received a Career Achievement award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work. Other awards for individual books include National Readers’ Choice, HOLT Medallion, Daphne du Maurier, Retailers Choice, Booksellers’ Best, and Reviewers’ Choice from RT Book Reviews. She is also a two-time Christy award finalist.

A former corporate communications executive with a Fortune 500 company, Irene now writes full time. To learn more about Irene and her books, visit www.irenehannon.com.

My Rating: 4 Stars!

‘God wouldn’t be interested in the likes of him.’

Irene Hannon once more takes her readers back to the quaint, peaceful, and encouraging town of Hope Harbor on the Oregon coast. I’ve grown to love this place, even if I’m not a beach person. The residents work their way into your heart and you just can’t help but love them. My favorite is Charley, the taco man, who I’m convinced in an angel. Just my opinion.

This time in Hope Harbor, we meet Holly Miller and Steven Roark, both of whom have issues that plague them from time to time. Holly’s is physical, due to a birth defect, and Steven’s is emotional. Along the way, we hear from both the town’s pastor and the priest, who are completely endearing. I want to visit the priest’s meditation garden! Issues arise that have both Holly and Steven in turmoil and they have to search their hearts to determine if they can overcome these deeply felt emotional qualms if they are to even have a chance at a happily ever after.

Irene Hannon is always good. Just good. She delves into her characters’ hearts and gives the readers glimpses of what lies beneath. She also manages to incorporate plot lines of secondary characters into these wonderful Hope Harbor stories. This one’s was precious. Another great read from an author I love. Recommended.

*My thanks to Revell Publishing for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinion stated here is entirely my own.+

Publication Date: March 31, 2020
Publisher: Revel Publishing