This was a great addition to the Hope Harbor series. It could be read as a standalone, but is best enjoyed as part of the series. I loved coming back to Hope Harbor and "checking in" on friends from previous books. This was a sweet Christian romance that I enjoyed watching unfold. The story had depth and dealt with a lot of hefty topics from a Christian perspective, including abortion, alcoholism, drug abuse, and assisted suicide, but all were handled positively. This was a sweet and clean romance, I'd rate PG-13 for the hefty topics mentioned above.

I really enjoy Irene Hannon’s romantic suspense novels, but for some reason, I’ve never read her contemporary stories. Well, I can say after reading Starfish Pier, I will definitely be going back and reading the first books in this series.

This story is definitely geared towards being a heavier read because there are some really hard topics, but somehow, Ms. Hannon kept this story from being too heavy and too depressing.

I liked that there were several story lines in this book and how they all connected with one another. I really liked the main characters, Steven and Holly. Holly was such a caring and thoughtful person. Through her small acts of kindness, she shows how you can have a positive impact on a person’s life. I liked how she did not let her physical struggles stop her from accomplishing her goals. And, wow, Steven’s past, at least part of it, was a total shocker and I felt so bad for him, but absolutely loved how he had changed! I also really enjoyed Pete’s story and how his new friends impacted his life in such a meaningful way.

I also loved the faith element of forgiveness that ran throughout the story and the feeling of community and neighbors helping neighbors.

My only issue with this story is that I felt like things all tied up too neatly at the end, but honestly, I’m good with that! I look forward to diving into the rest of this series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. I would at the faith element is heavy.

Oh how I love the town of Hope Harbor! Irene Hannon has once again transported us to this idyllic town. Each book in the series just continues to get better. It is a place you want to snuggle and stay awhile and hate to see the ending.

We are reunited with town favorites like Charlie and the gullls, Floyd and Gladys, while meeting new members of the town like Pete, Cindy, Steven, and Holly. They all quickly endure themselves to you as you journey with them in their lives stories.

Ms. Hannon eloquently tackles tough issues like alcoholism, abortion, assisted suicide, and family issues. She is not afraid to have her characters face them head on and takes you with them as they travel the difficult journey each of those issue bring like withdrawal, fear, guilt, and isolation. I also feel it will open you up to view things from different perspectives as some of the characters learned today.

This book is a must read! It will take you on an adventure of heart warming romance while tackling life’s difficulties. I cannot wait to see what lies ahead for the residents of Hope Harbor!

I was given a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are completely my own.

Starfish Pier is my first venture into the Hope Harbor series, though I have read other lovely books by this author.
Hope Harbor is such a charming seaside village you really won't want to leave. And the characters are so charismatic that you feel as if you could go there are just strike up a conversation with them like old friends.
Holly Miller despite having some disadvantages in life is the most caring and selfless person you could ever meet. I need someone like her for a neighbor.
I loved meeting Steven,Pete,Patrick and lets not forget the taco guy Charley, who makes it a point to be everyone's friend.
I really enjoyed this book so much and really look forward to now starting at the beginning of this series and reading through it. The author is an excellent story teller.


Published March 31st 2020 by Fleming H. Revell Company
I was given a complimentary copy. Thank you.
All opinions expressed are my own.

I'm familiar with Irene Hannon but for her action-suspense novels. This kind of story is not what I'm used to from her but they were good. I guess I'm just surprised she writes such drastically different kinds of stories.

True to form, this story has two intertwining plots. You could even say three. It's never just about the two MCs and I like that about the stories in this series. There are things bigger than the two people.

Hannon tackles a VERY touchy subject when she put pro-life and extended it to capital punishment. The pre-born and elderly are easy. Military and capital punishment are not always so cut and dried. I found myself disagreeing with some of Holly's arguments and honestly, the aversion to the cannon felt a little silly, but I think it was a tangible way to make the bigger point.

Another huge issue here is how much can you accept in differences of opinion with the person you date and/or marry. What things are too big and what things can you agree to disagree on? There are some frank discussions that are really good for thinking about this topic.

I found that I could connect to these characters more than many of the others in the previous books. I do wish that more of the past characters would be around other than a mention here or a brief comment there. Charley is still the absolute best, though :)

STARFISH PIER may be the sixth book in the series, but it does stand alone. New fans will want to read the others in the series including Hope Harbor, Sea Rose Lane, Sandpiper Cove, Pelican Point, and Driftwood Bay.

This one may have started a bit slow, and the characters took awhile for me to warm up to, but once I did--wow.

Holly and Steven had seemingly insurmountable obstacles. Both have soul searching and theological truths to grasp. I loved that they both reached out to others to lend a helping hand.

For the more conservative reader, Holly is rather bold in her pursuit of Steven, and there is drinking and some card games.

As a handicapped person who tends to become reclusive, Holly was amazing. My toes were stepped on time and again. I wish I had her courage.

I loved this series and am glad to know there are more to come.

If you love Christian romance, give STARFISH PIER a try. Recommended.

I was given a copy free. All opinions are my own.

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.)

Starfish Pier is the latest tale added to Irene Hannon's Hope Harbor series. Holly Miller recently decided to make Hope Harbor her new home. Her work as a first-grade teacher has provided a way to settle into this quiet community. When Holly attempts to raise funds for a non-profit group that supports life, she meets Steven Roark. Steven is a former member of the military and everything about him seems to be anti-life!

Although this relationship seems to have started on prickly terms, Holly and Steven slowly form a friendship. Both Holly and Steven are holding on to secrets that will make moving forward into a deeper relationship rather difficult!

Hold on as you watch these two walk down a rocky road. You will be surprised to see where God leads them!

I've enjoyed every book in this series. In fact, I decided to reread them all and in this time of uncertainty the hopeful outlook certainly helped. I would recommend this to anyone who is looking for an Inspirational romance or something hopeful and uplifting. Readers who enjoy books by Rachel Hauck and Susan May Warren might also enjoy this read.

Starfish Pier
A Hope Harbor Novel
by Irene Hannon
Revell
Romance
Pub Date 31 Mar 2020 | Archive Date 15 May 2020

I wholeheartedly recommend this book as part of the Hope Harbor series. I have read all of Irene Hannon's novels and many in our community do as well. I will be glad to feature this in our library.
Thanks to Net Galley and Revell for sending me the ARC of this novel.

Let’s just rename Starfish Pier…. “Five-Star-fish Pier!” It’s that good.
Irene Hannon’s characters are fun and full of life. It was a delight to meet the gang that have populated earlier books in the Hope Harbor series. My favorites include Charlie, the artist and food truck owner, who specializes in tantalizing fish tacos and words of wisdom. Then the cleric duo of Father Murphy and Reverend Baker reappear who bring the right dose of amusement to the story.
Amidst the fun, are some serious issues about alcoholism, mental health, and fostering community connections. Author Irene Hannon deals with both the serious issues and fun with great skill. The story is appealing because we are not only drawn into a great love story, but we also get to see how bridges are built between hurting people. Bridges that set people on healing paths. Her character list is an all-star roster of caring friends who look outside themselves and find ways to support those in need.
I thought each plot line resolved in a believable and satisfactory fashion. One element to appreciate is the multigenerational plot surrounding Pete and his new circle of friends.
The phrase “Never say Never” applies here, or as Hanon writes “God’s delay is not denial”. While the way forward looked bleak for some, at the story’s conclusion not just one but three characters all find bright futures in new careers. These outcomes were so unexpected, but highly satisfying.
I haven’t read the entire Hope Harbor series, just three books out of six. It was nice to read in the epilogue one more is expected next fall. Oh my…. Where will the story go next?
I recommend this book. There’s romance, a story about dysfunctional families that mend, forgiveness, and second chances. I received a complimentary copy from NetGalley in exchange for my honest review. #Starfish Pier #NetGalley

I've heard the name Irene Hannon for a while now but had not read any of her books. When I read the synopsis of Starfish Pier, I decided it was time to remedy that situation!

Tackling difficult subjects such as addiction and right-to-life, this lovely story is focused on four characters' journey to find the right path for their lives. Interlaced with the perfect sprinkling of humor to keep it from dragging, it is romantic and shares important spiritual truths.

Holly had lived a very sheltered life. Health issues caused her parents to be very protective of her and she had only recently broken free of their coddling when she moved to the little town of Hope Harbor to teach. She had a very strong belief in the sanctity of life in all cases. No matter what.

When Holly approached Steven for a donation to the fundraiser for a right-to-life cause, he knew there was no future for them, despite the attraction they both clearly felt. Holly would never approve of his former career and he had a secret in his past that caused him shame that he knew she could never look past.

Patrick, Steven's younger brother didn't think he had a drinking problem. And was tired of everyone trying to "fix" him, especially the big brother who was everything he never could be.

Pete, Holly's new neighbor, had given up on life, convinced no one was left who cared about him and that death would be preferable to the life he was living. I loved the way first Holly, and then Patrick saw the need to inject themselves into his life, despite Pete's best efforts to push them away.

I really enjoyed how the intertwining of their lives influenced each other's spiritual journey.

Though the author mentions on her website that the faith element in her stories is not strong, I found Starfish Pier, epitomized everything I expect in Christian fiction. The characters learn life lessons that draw them closer to God and their faith journey plays a significant part in the story.

Though this is the sixth book in the Hope Harbor series, I was pleasantly surprised to find that I couldn't really tell who the previous books had been about. I have read many books where the author tries too hard to explain the history of a secondary character making it too obvious that there was a story about them already. While I could tell that Charley, the artist/taco maker was in the other stories, simply because he had to be, (and I have a feeling the two seagulls were in them as well), this was only because they are the type of iconic characters that need to be carried through all the books.

Whether you have read other books in Hope Harbor or not, I recommend you read Starfish Pier. And you just might find yourself picking up the other stories to read as well. I anticipate doing that myself!

Brooke is excited to finally become a Park Ranger. Days before her swearing in her father is murdered. His death is ruled a suicide. But she knows he would never take his own life. Luke and Brooke are friends from childhood. Luke left and never contacted Brooke and hurt her terribly. She doesn't know he is there under cover to investigate drug running in the park. In the end they have to work together to discover who killed Brooke's father.

Another good book by Patricia Bradley. I recommend to everyone who likes a good mystery. Everyone is a suspect clear to the end of the book.

I was given this book by Revell Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.

Irene Hannon welcomes you back to Hope Harbor where first grade teacher Holly Miller has just moved to town. Stephen Roark has been in Hope Harbor a year and specifically moved there to mend his relationship with his brother. Holly and Stephen meet, and sparks fly. However, each person has their own hurt. Can love conquer pain and bring this couple together? Hannon adds in a crotchety old neighbor, alcoholism, and marriage in crisis to develop the story that will further endear you to the residents of Hope Harbor.

so loved reading another story set in Hope Harbor with Charley who makes what must be the greatest fish tacos from his food truck. Charley always has thought provoking words to those in need. Then, there's Gladys and Floyd who seem to have some matchmaking tendencies of their own.
Holly has recently moved to Hope Harbor wanting a fresh start after a breakup with someone whom she'd hope to spend forever with. She has the Lord, and a job that she loves teaching first graders.
Sparks fly after Holly meets Steve Roark who has also recently moved to Hope Harbor. Steve was serving in the Middle East as a Delta Force member and would like to forget the things he saw and did there. Steve has came to escape things in his past, as well as to attempt to help his brother, Patrick, who seems bent on following the path of their father.
Holly and Steve are on opposite sides in a very important issue-prolife. Can their differences be overcome?
Then, there's Holly's neighbor, Pete, an elderly man who just moved in next door. Can Holly be a friend to him and help him get involved in the community and make other friends, and just maybe, Pete will change his mind regarding his plans for the remainder of his life?
Wonderful, wonderful story.
I was given a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher, Revell and NetGalley. I was under no obligation to leave a positive review.

“Maybe coming back to Oregon had been a mistake.”

Opening line of “Starfish Pier” by Irene Hannon
“Starfish Pier”, by Irene Hannon, is the sixth book in the Hope Harbor series. It is a enjoyable standalone story which includes community members from the previous books. At it’s heart, it explores the value of life and who has the right to end it from a cultural and Christian perspective. Whilst a heavy topic, Irene surrounds it with a heartwarming story full of triumphs, love and humour. It also challenges the reader to love our neighbours even when we disagree, to debate tough topics with respect and civility.

There are four central characters and each adds a different perspective on the life debate: one has a condition diagnosed in-utero because which doctors recommended an abortion, another is considering ending his because of a terminal diagnosis, one is ex-military and another is struggling to win the battle with alcohol addiction. Interconnected, they discuss the topic along with the two religious leaders in the community. It is an interesting topic.

There is also romance in various forms; a young couple struggling in married life, two loners looking for connection and a widower who doesn’t know how to live through the grief. The ending is a happy one which I so appreciate.

If you are looking for a thought-provoking romance novel, this one is for you! I highly recommend it and it’s a five out of five on the enJOYment scale.

“We're all different. We don't fit together as cleanly as the pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. Sometimes there are gaps. Rough edges. Holes. The finished product when we come together isn't always perfect. But as we're reminded in Corinthians, a love that keeps no record of wrongs...that perseveres...never fails.”

Hannon never fails to teach life lessons and God's truths in her stories. She shows them in characters who are imperfect & broken both emotionally and sometimes spiritually. Steven Roark has had his share of battles. An ex-Delta force operator in the military, he served his country as a sniper snuffing out evil; in his personal life in much deeper ways. Holly Miller too has fought physical battles and recently moved to Hope Harbor for a peaceful new start. Her first grade kids give her new meaning to life and unconditional love she craves. These two are on opposite spectrums when it comes to viewing deeply seated moral issues that have an instant impact on developing any kind of relationship. It takes a community of diverse people to show them that in spite of their beliefs, they can see eye to eye and have a deeper understanding of what has made them who they are.

“If God is willing to give people a second chance, why should we do any less?”

“I'm learning everyone has many layers...and one or two don't define us.

Hannon also never fails to write a story that is deeply emotional and draws you into the lives of her characters. I loved Holly's neighbor Pete, a newcomer and recluse who just needs to be shown love....reluctantly at first, but soon her sunny nature breaks down those walls. Then there's Steven's brother Patrick who is also battling his own problems that could lead to disaster. All he needs is a second chance and people to give him opportunities to do right. See? It really does take a village to bring about peaceful harmony and small gestures to show compassion & love. Then there's old favorite characters that I met with her first book that also continue to play a vital role in making Hope Harbor what it is, Charley the sage advice giving taco slinger, Flyod and Glady's his two seagull companions, and glimpses of others who I've gotten to know throughout this series. I think the first quote I gave in my review really does sum up this book; God can make a perfect jigsaw puzzle out of imperfect people and fit them exactly together the way He intends. Nobody is beyond love's reach and God can use each one of us to show this in everyday life. And lastly, the hard-won romance that developed between Steven & Holly was sublime! I enjoyed watching their walls crumble & attraction turn into a love that will last.

There's nothing about a Hannon book that I don't like! She is my go-to Christian fiction writer for both contemporary romance and romantic suspense. If you love stories full of tight-knit small town communities with lots of heart & faith, then I think you'll enjoy Starfish Pier! Be sure to read every book in this series, I can guarantee you'll want to once you start!

* A complimentary copy was provided through NetGalley. No favorable review was required & all opinions are my own. *

Hope Harbor is a quiet little Oregon town that I wish we could all visit. With the tight-knit community, Charlie’s wisdom (and fish tacos), and romance in the air, how could we resist a stop now and then?

In Starfish Pier, Irene Hannon weaves multiple points of view in order to give us a picture of the healing of a man and his family, the strength a sense of belonging can lend, and a romance between two people who seem at opposite ends of the spectrum with some major beliefs in their lives.

Steven and Holly are attracted to each other from the first time they meet and that ramps up each time they are together. They also act like adults and have the difficult conversations instead of ignoring them or hiding them from each other. As Holly steps out from her introverted existence, she finds her courage in helping her neighbor.

Another wonderful installment to this series, Starfish Pier delivers everything I expect from Hannon—romance, hope, heart, community, healing, and a little good humor from the town’s priest and pastor.

Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

Irene Hannon is one of my favorite authors. I like this story because it is about people and how they deal with life. It's not about a murder, or missing child, or unfaithful spouse, or any other crazy thing like that. Yes, there is tension and obstacles to overcome in this book. But the author reveals details in a slow manner that keeps you reading. At a time such as this, it is a book of hope, forgiveness, and redemption.

Thank you to NewGalley for an ARC for an honest review.

Welcome back to Hope Harbor, where our journey continues with a few familiar characters alongside several new ones. There are some memorable quotes, e.g.“...weekly church attendance was important. A visible sign of faith that told the world you were proud of your beliefs – and a reminder to yourself to live the values every day that were preached from the pulpit on Sunday.” “The good Lord gave me this life, & He entrusted me with this body to take care of during the journey. He also gave me a purpose. I may not always know what that is, but He does. And until He calls me home, I have to keep on hanging on. That’s my job - & my responsibility. The rest I’ll leave up to him.” A book with a definite message on the purpose of life, & whether any individual has the right to determine its span – at either end. However I have mixed feelings as to how much I can recommend it. This book seems to be trying to be two different things at once, which is a pity. Had the author opted for the more serious side, it could have been a really strong message. Disappointingly, it was diluted by a second storyline which made the characters seem rather shallow, rather than being developed as they could have been. There is much potential for a strong punch, which it doesn’t manage to deliver. [The reason I am not giving this a higher rating is because some of the content is not what I expect in a Christian novel. If people really want to read that kind of thing there are plenty of other books around catering to it, but we should be assured of its having no place in Christian writing. The rate at which the boundaries are being pushed seems to be accelerating...]