I really struggled with the first part of the book because the author dives right into the plot and several characters, jumping scenes and I felt like in each scene I was only getting half the information I needed in order to understand what was going on. I kept going despite feeling lost amid the vague information, and even after things began settling into place, I wasn't feeling connected to the emotions of the characters and almost didn't finish the book. There are various themes of family dynamics- dysfunction & secrecy, loyalty & sacrifice. I was intrigued by Curtis and Amy's occupations, but their work lives somehow seemed disconnected from their life and investigation on the island. Amy and Curtis alternate feeling attracted and pushing each other away, especially when accusing and judging the mysterious choices of Gina and Ben. About 2/3 through I knew I needed to find out whodunit, and gave up on the "romance" between Amy and Curtis. The book is definitely more plot driven that character driven. Some unexpected twists made the last quarter of the book and the ending satisfying, and I'm glad I finished it.

Disclosure statement: A complimentary copy of this book was provided. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are unbiased and my own.

Coble’s second Hope Beach book returns to the stunningly described Outer Banks locale. The suspenseful mystery, coupled with developing romance, creates a lively, page-turning novel.
Amy Lange returns to Rosemary Cottage to mourn her brother Ben’s death. There are some questions as to whether his death was accidental or murder, and Amy wants to find out. Curtis Ireland’s sister Gina was also killed, and he is raising Gina’s daughter. Curtis has some secrets that he hopes Amy won’t discover, yet he feels drawn to this amazing woman

Romantic suspense is not my favorite genre, but I was drawn toRosemary Cottage because of the lovely cover and Outer Banks setting, and I'm certainly glad I read it. Colleen did a great job at creating a sense of place along the North Carolina seashore. I would describe this story as more mystery than suspense, which I liked because I don't enjoy books that keep me awake at night.

One of the secondary characters, a young girl named Heather, seemed the most complex to me. Heather is a flawed character who allows herself to be used by a guy that she thinks really cares about her, yet she grows throughout the story. Amy reaches out to her at one point and says, "There's always a way of redemption."

The romance between Curtis and Amy plays a large part, but I felt the story's main strength is the mystery, which kept this reader turning the pages. Some might find the plot slightly predictable, but I got caught up in the narrative and was surprised by a twist toward the end. The prose moves along easily, the characters are interesting, and one-year-old Raine will capture your heart.

I like how Curtis and Amy's relationship deepens until at the end, Curtis says, "We have this day, this hour. And that's enough. We take what God gives us."

Although this is the second novel in a series, it easily stands alone. I hope we see two other members of Curtis's team featured in the next book. I recommend Rosemary Cottage to all readers, but fans of romantic suspense will especially find it enjoyable.

Set on Hope Beach, a fictional location along the Outer Banks of North Carolina, I was drawn back into the setting with the characters I came to enjoy in Tidewater Inn. This book is a multi-layered mystery with a wonderful blend of romance. Amy Lange has returned to Rosemary Cottage to mourn the death of her brother. Curtis Ireland still isn't over the death of his sister. The two connect over Curtis' niece Raine. They determine to get to the bottom of what happened and twists keep pitting them against each other even as they are drawn together.<br/><br/>This book kept me guessing even as I anticipated some of the twists. My daughter was absolutely convinced I could never anticipate everything that would happen. She was right -- though I did unwind more of it than she did! I love a book that keeps me guessing. I enjoy books with a satisfying romance. Put the two together, and I am a very happy reader. This book is perfect for those who love romantic mysteries.

Thanks so much for the ARC! I didn't enjoy this one as much as I thought I would, though.

Like the first book, this story also has a great mystery to solve. When Amy Lang receives an anonymous email stating that there may be much more to her brother's recent death, Amy heads to the Outer Banks of North Carolina and her family's cottage to search for the truth. As she investigates and uncovers clues, she realizes that she might not have really known her brother as well as she thought she did.

Mystery, murder, betrayal, love and forgiveness are all great words to describe this story. Colleen Coble has done a great job telling a story that will take you on quite a ride. There is this sinking suspicion that all is not as it seems. Curtis and Amy learn so much about themselves and their siblings they thought they knew so well. It's easy to wear a mask and this story explores the fact that so many do. It also show the consequences when we try to hide ourselves from those we love. This story is exciting and a great continuation of the Hope Beach series. You'll be thrilled to see several of the characters from Tidewater Inn in Amy's story. Looking for a great book? Pick up Colleen Coble's newest series. You'll love it!