Member Review

Windswept Way is the ninth novel in Irene Hannon's contemporary Hope Harbor series. Unfortunately for me, this was the first title I'd had the chance to try, and I was a little worried that I was going to end up not being able to keep up with the story. Thankfully, this one reads wonderfully as a stand alone, but I enjoyed it so much I think I will definitely have to go back and read some of the previous titles in the very near future.

Hope Harbor is a charming and idyllic town on the Oregon coast, and it's habited by a wonderful group of people who seem to be able to make any stranger feel welcome no matter what they're going through. Ashley Scott makes her way to the small town when the opportunity for a new business venture is way too amazing to pass up. As someone who loves history, she's intrigued at the opportunity to become part owner of a dazzling historic estate that her and the estate's original owner decide to try and turn into a wedding and special event venue. Ashley's healing from past hurts, and so is the wonderful but reclusive estate owner Rose. When the two ladies hire Jonathan Gray's landscaping business to revamp the grounds before the venue's open house, sparks soon start flying between Ashley and Jonathan. However, Jonathan has deep scars, both literally and figuratively, and both him and Ashley are hesitant to see what that could mean for a future relationship.

From start to finish, Windswept Way is a beautiful and charming contemporary romance that will make you do some deep thinking about just how much emphasis our world puts on outward appearance versus inward beauty. The story is wonderfully plotted, the characters knew just how to pull at my heartstrings, and I absolutely loved the idyllic setting of the beautiful historic estate set against the backdrop of the coast's dangerous cliffs.

I also loved the many townspeople who come to encourage Ashley, Rose, and Jonathan in their individual faith journey's, and in particular Charley, Reverend Baker and Father Murphy were all a hoot, and I couldn't have enjoyed them more.

This was a beautiful romance, and I'm only sorry it's taken me until the ninth title in the series to finally give Hope Harbor a chance.

Final Rating: 4/5.

I'd highly recommend this one to anyone who loves Christian contemporary romances, and/or romances that are thought provoking while still being clean and swoon worthy at the same time.

Thanks so much to Revell for allowing me to advance read and review this one!

I voluntarily read and reviewed a complimentary advance reader copy of this novel from the publisher (Revell) via NetGalley. I was not required to give a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are my own, and this is my honest review.