Member Reviews
I find it fun to read books set in my wonderful home state of Oregon. This novel features an old inn on the Oregon Coast, a location that is lovely to visit in person or in fiction. Along with an inn that needs some fix-up work, we find two main characters at crucial points in their lives—they need repair work too, as do some other characters in this compelling tale. The endearing characters sweep you up in their drama as the story unfolds, and the engaging plot maintains your attention. With all the relationships explored through trials and tension, it’s refreshing to come to the heartwarming conclusion. The author did a marvelous job crafting an intriguing love story, with love between parents and children, a married couple, and, of course, the troubled main characters. This book in the series, all set in the same town, stands alone, but it will probably want to make you read them all. I received a copy from the publisher through NetGalley. All opinions are my own. #SandcastleInn #NetGalley
This was an excellent, fun and easy to read story. I didn’t realize this was book number ten in the Hope Harbor Series. I had no problem following along though and now plan to read the other books about Hope Harbor in the future.
Matt, a veterinarian, plans a trip to Hope Harbor to visit his sister and get a little vacation rest. His sister Kay has bought a B&B inn on the beach, sight unseen, which needs a lot of work.
Vienna is a hardworking executive type that puts her all into her job, until she gets let go. She comes to Hope Harbor to visit her mom and lick her wounds. I loved Vienna’s mother Bev, and not just because she owns a book store. She is her own woman who moves to a different drummer with bright flowing clothes and long silver streaked hair. Everyone in Hope Harbor loves Bev and goes to her often to visit and seek advice.
Now the fun begins with the residents and newcomers to this small town by the sea. I want to visit there and go to Bev’s Book Nook, Sweet Dreams Bakery, and The Perfect Blend. I know I can’t physically but I enjoyed it so much in my reading imagination and you can too!
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through Celebrate Lit but was not required to write a review.
"Sandcastle Inn" The tenth book in Irene Hannon's Hope Harbor series. I have been an avid fan of Irene Hannon for several years because once you start reading one of her books you can't put them down. "Sandcastle Inn" is no exception! Vienna and Matt's story, is full of restoration and hope, that will inspire you long after the last page is finished. You can read this as a standalone book but you will not regret reading the entire series!! Disclaimer: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I read and reviewed it of my own accord and was not required to write a favorable review. All opinions are my own.
It is always a treat to return to Hope Harbor, Oregon in the contemporary romance novels of Irene Hannon. Her series is now 10 books strong! And each successive story just gets better and better. I loved Sandcastle Inn! In this novel several newcomers are introduced to the small seaside town, but the community is so welcoming that they soon feel at home. Does it sound like I feel Hope Harbor is a real place? 😉 Hannon has created a wonderful setting with charming characters that have continued throughout the series. One old time resident and the two seagulls that seem to witness every new budding relationship are very special additions to each book. In Sandcastle Inn, Hannon focuses on several types of relationships — new romance, family dynamics, and a married couple. As always, the narrative’s main focus is on the the attraction and developing romantic relationship of the two main characters, but I really enjoyed how Hannon explored the varying types of relationships between parents and grown children and sibling relationships. The story line of the married couple was my favorite! All of the stories add a depth that make the book more than just a romance, as well as adding to the feeling that Hope Harbor really exists! A solid faith thread runs naturally throughout the narrative — it’s never preachy.
If you like contemporary romance with some small town charm and well-developed characters, then Sandcastle Inn is a must-read. I would recommend starting at the beginning of the series, though. While 10 books may sound daunting, think of all the fun you are going to have spending time in Hope Harbor!
Recommended.
Audience: Adults.
(Thanks to Celebrate Lit and the publisher for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)
Why is this the first time I’m reading book #10 in the Hope Harbor series by Irene Hannon? Thanks to my bff reading friend Barbara for introducing me to this series so now I can read all the others. I really really enjoyed this book and it reads great as a stand-alone but I do want to read the others. I want to live in a town like Hope Harbor! What a wonderful “feel good” story. A nice break from all the thrillers I’ve been obsessed with the last few months! Thanks to NetGalley for this early copy in exchange for my honest review. Looking forward to more by this author.
Another delightful romance in the Hope Harbor series! I was introduced to this fabulous Irene Hannon series a year ago and immediately fell in love with the charming small town on the Oregon coast and its lovable characters. It’s a place of second chances, romance, and neighborly kindness. In Sandcastle Inn, there are two couples in need of the love and second chances Hope Harbor offers.
Finding herself suddenly between jobs, Vienna Price decides to visit her mother in Hope Harbor despite their seemingly insurmountable differences. Matt Quinn has come to take a break from his veterinary practice and find some respite after experiencing unspeakable tragedies. He’s also there to help his sister Kay with her hastily purchased Bed and Breakfast in need of a lot of repairs. When Kay has to leave suddenly for an emergency, he’s left to care for the Inn and repairs. Vienna just so happens to have the expertise he desperately needs, but can he convince her to stay and help?
Andrew and Paige are in dire straits after an employee embezzled money and destroyed their construction company. They’ve come to Hope Harbor hoping to start over. When Matt learns of their plight, he offers them a second chance that could potentially benefit them all.
I loved returning to Hope Harbor and all the amazing characters. I enjoyed Matt’s and Vienna’s second chance romance. Neither one’s looking for love yet the pull towards each other is undeniable. With Vienna, Matt’s finally able to open up about his grief and find happiness again. There’s also the strain between Vienna and her mother Bev. I enjoyed how Vienna was able to see her mother in a new light. I also loved Paige and Andrew. Paige’s been estranged from her parents since her marriage to Andrew, and losing their company didn’t help matters. I loved the way they were able to find new opportunities in Hope Harbor and mend their relationship with Paige’s parents.
Though this story can definitely be read as a standalone, it’s more enjoyable if you’re familiar with the endearing residents of Hope Harbor like the wise, intuitive Charley who runs the taco stand and the golf playing clergymen. Highly recommend this gentle, sweet, lovely, inspirational series that’s such a pleasure to read. After Sandcastle Inn and Windswept Way, I’m eagerly looking forward to reading the previous books in the series as well as future books! I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own and voluntarily provided. 4-4.5 stars!
Sandcastle Inn is the 10th book in Irene Hannon's long-running Hope Harbor series. Veterinarian Matt Quinn comes to Hope Harbor to help his sister and her floundering bed and breakfast business. Vienna Price returns to Hope Harbor seeking solace after unexpectedly losing her hospitality job. When Matt enlists Vienna's professional expertise, can they save the hotel? As they work together, they might also lose their hearts to each other. Hannon brings memorable characters that will have readers yearning to return to Hope Harbor again and again.
have read several of the books in the Hope Harbor series and I love them. I received a copy of this tenth book in the series from the publisher through #NetGalley. I'm always happy to see Charley turn up with his fish tacos and see what he is going to involve himself in with each new story. Floyd and Gladys are precious series additions too. When they show up, I know love is in the air.
Matt Quimby takes time off from his veterinarian practice to vacation in Hope Harbor and help his sister Kay with her newly acquired bed and breakfast. She is about to leave town to support their dear friend Cora through a surgery. Thinking he is going to be decompressing after a terrible loss he finds his sister has left a major challenge with a rundown property for him to deal with.
Vienna Price rolls into town to visit with her mother, Bev. She is reeling from the loss of her job and has a need to stop and figure out what to do next. She stops in at the less than stellar B&B, meets up with a shady looking character and backs out right away. Their paths cross again when she is looking for something to do which relates to her former career.
This story has drama, a bit of mystery involving Matt's loss, renewed hope and some excellent secondary characters with their own story. In my own unsolicited opinion, I think this is a nice summer read, a sweet love story and a good addition to the Hope Harbour series.
“Sandcastle Inn” is a delightful read. For whatever reason, I just adore Bed and Breakfast stories! There’s something about this kind of setting that casts a unique air of nostalgic charm. Add in that I’ve already read several of the stories in this series, so that familiarity brings even more warmth. (And it’s in a seaside town.)
I was drawn into this second-chance story immediately. The two main characters, Vienna and Matt are so believable and easy to sink into. (Paige and Andrew, carrying a secondary storyline, are wonderful as well!) Vienna is an interesting character and I rooted for her to discover her new path in life. Matt needs healing as well. I love how they were connected and how their relationship progressed.
There are so many wonderful elements to this clean story of faith, healing, and restoration. The town is memorable, and I wish I could visit. The townsfolk are charming, and I feel as if they’re friends. And the way things work together brings warmth to my heart.
#CoverLoverBookReview received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions are 100% mine.
Oh how I loved this story so much. I love the setting and the people in the town. With a quaint Bed & Breakfast in renovation it is sure to stir up many adventures. I’m not sure that the B&B was a great investment but with the help of our exciting characters the emotions run strong.
Vienna comes back to visit her mom hoping for a better relationship for them. When her mom finds out about her job there is hope that Vienna will stay longer. I liked the mother and daughter dynamics and how realistic it is. It gives hope to those who struggle in this area and the author illustrates how restoration happens.
Matt finds his sister in over her head when he shows up at the B&B. Kay wanted so desperately to make this investment work but she didn’t realize all the work it will take to make the Inn profitable. When she leaves to help a friend out Matt is left in charge. This is where the heart of the story is. There are two more characters that bind this group together. With compassion, trust and faith their lives change in ways they never imagined. The carpenter that needs work and his wife who honors her commitment are beautiful examples of never giving up.
Matt and Vienna will soon realize they need each other not only to get the B&B up and running but also to find a relationship built on trust. I loved each step the renovation took and how these two couples began a friendship that shows how lending a hand opens doors that were once closed. I kept thinking about how there is always hope and to never give up. The ending is beautiful and I will always remember this story that is filled with life lessons.
“Blessing can be hard to identify in the moment.”
I received a copy of this book from Celebrate Lit. The review is my own opinion.
Boy do I love a good remodel! This book was a remodel of an inn and of people. It is amazing how you can have an idea of what someone is like when you are growing up. When you get to be an adult yourself that idea certainly can change when you realize what being an adult is all about. I also like how this book shows that grief can definitely cloud your judgement. Great book of Hope Harbor!!
Sandcastle Inn is a wonderful romance novel with excellent characters. It also is a solid Christian fiction read. I love travelling to Hope Harbor even if it’s only through book.
I could not wait to go back to Hope Harbor in this novel and snuggle Floyd and Gladys. Okay, so maybe snuggle is the wrong word to choose, But I definitely was ready for Charley and his wisdom(plus tacos).
Though this is part of the Hope Harbor series, it is also a stand-alone title. You might see some old friends in it that you’ll recognize if you’ve read the other books, but you won;t be lost if you haven’t.
This novel read quickly. The characters were wonderful. The plot was excellent. I loved seeing the characters struggle and feel. They had to make hard choices and overcome a lot. But in the end, they get their happily ever after.
I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from Celebrate Lit. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.
Sandcastle Inn is the 10th book in the Hope Harbor series by Irene Hannon. While this is part of a series, this is also a great stand alone story with old and new characters. In this story we meet the new owner of the inn, her brother, Matt, and the people who come to help him with the renovation and reopening of the inn. I have enjoyed the entire series, but this is my favorite book so far. I enjoyed how so many needs are met with the renovation of the inn. We meet a carpenter who was forced to close his business and was living in a tent along with his wife, with no income. We meet Vienna, who was affected by company downsizing who has come home to visit her mother and finds there really is no room at her mother’s place. With limited fund to do the reno, Matt comes up with a unique way to help other and get the job done for his sister.
This story is such an inspirational reminder of how God works in so many ways to help us meet our needs. It’s a reminder that He has a much greater understanding of what is best for us and answers our prayers in the way that works best for us. I totally enjoyed this story and hope there are many more like it to come.
I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.
Another great book by one of my favorite authors. Sandcastle Inn by Irene Hannon takes us back to Hope Harbor, a welcoming town that feels like home. This is the 10th book that takes place in Hope Harbor and although this is a stand alone book, it is fun to read about the characters we love. I can almost taste a fish taco from Charley’s stand. Sure wish I could.
This book is about two people visiting their families with no intentions of staying long. Both are dealing with sorrowful situations they had faced recently. Vienna Price was been a workaholic for many years but recently lost her job in the hotel industry. She is in Hope Harbor to visit with her mom. They have always had issues. Her mom, Bev, is a free-spirit and Vienna is a planner and doer.
Matt Quinn is taking a few weeks leave from his Veterinary practice and helping his sister who just bought Sandcastle Inn because she wants to run a bed and breakfast. But Matt sees the large undertaking the restoration is going to be due to the condition of the inn. Seems his sister didn’t think this through.
Vienna doesn’t want to stay in her mom’s one bedroom place so she is trying to work out a deal with Matt to stay at the inn. They evidently decide she can trade off a room for her expertise with constructive ideas for the inn. From there we see a relationship start to form.
A great book that I will read again. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Netgalley. All comments and opinions are my own.
Life's twists and turns sometimes throw us for a loop. Sometimes, it completely submerges us and we don't know how to get out of the swirling water. Matt and Vienna both find themselves in this swirling water and need somewhere safe to land as they find their way out of life's turbulence. Hope Harbor is just the place. And it provides both of those things - hope for those weary and searching; a harbor of safety to those who need it most. Matt is seeking a rest while Vienna is looking for a restart. Add in the fish taco selling "philosopher", the bookstore owner "psychologist", and those who need the listening ear these two provide. It all combines to create a small town that anyone would find what they need in.
This was such a fun story. The rehabbing of the inn to a B&B was a unique angle for the story and one that made it such a joy to read. It had the nicest setting - an inn with a lovely view and plenty of seclusion - and just enough intrigue about character backgrounds to keep the interest without it being annoying. I found the characters personalities were just right, engaging yet interesting. I liked the emotional interest that was placed there with all the characters - referring to lost loves, friendships, and future relationships. So much was poured into these characters that I truly found them intriguing.
I would feel confident encouraging others to read this story, including some of the teens that I know that are looking for clean romance stories. This one was a joy to read.
Returning to Hope Harbor is a joy. It was fun to read about people getting second chances or a new start in life. Some of those second chances are not planned but rather surprises. The characters remind us to be open to forks in the road we had planned to travel and unexpected opportunities. There are also some good examples of restoring relationships. A more serious issue is dealing with grief and false guilt.
The romance was well done as Matt and Vienna try so hard to not fall in love. People finding hope for the future are woven well into the idea of restoring an old B&B into a high end inn. Besides new people finding blessings in Hope Harbor, it was good to see old friends from previous novels in the series. Charley, maker of the best fish tacos is so wise and insightful. And I liked being reunited with Floyd and Gladys, two of the friendliest seagulls ever.
Hannon has written a wonderful feel good novel and I recommend it for an encouraging experience.
I received a complimentary egalley of this book through Celebrate Lit. My comments are an independent and honest review.
We think we know everything about our parents. But do we really?
Vienna and her mother didn't always agree. But when she lost her job, her Mother was the first one she ran to.
Paige had to stand up to her father years ago. It cost her. Her Father also paid the price.
Matt couldn't forgive himself for the past. If he couldn't, how could anyone else?
Vienna, Amy and Matt discovered that nothing is always as it seems.
I have really enjoyed reading all the Hope Harbor books. I can rely on great stories with wonderful characters.
"Sandcastle Inn" by Irene Hannon is a delightful addition to the Hope Harbor series. It offers a heartwarming story about new beginnings, love, and the importance of family. While it's the tenth book in the series, it can be enjoyed as a standalone novel, though returning readers will appreciate the familiar setting and characters. I know I always look forward to the wisdom Charley shares. And I wish it was a real place to visit for vacation 😊
The protagonist, Vienna Price, returns to her childhood seaside town of Hope Harbor after a career setback. Her work situation is all too familiar to several of us that work in the corporate world. Very good lessons shared here. In addition, she is forced to confront her past and her relationship with her free-spirited mother, Bev, Vienna.
Meanwhile, Matt Quinn, a veterinarian escaping his own personal loss, arrives in Hope Harbor to help his sister with her newly acquired but struggling B&B, the Sandcastle Inn. There are enough hints that you know Matt has survived or is trying to survive a tragedy. Vienna's skills and Matt's determination offer a chance to restore the inn, sparking a connection between them along the way.
The novel beautifully portrays the growth of Vienna and Matt's relationship, filled with emotional depth and "meet-cute" moments. Secondary characters like Paige and Andrew, another couple facing challenges, add richness to the narrative.
Fans of the series will be particularly thrilled by the reappearance of beloved characters like Charley, the enigmatic taco maker, and the seagull couple, Gladys and Floyd. If you are new to the series you really can start with any of them. I have read all of them and loved each of them.
If you're seeking a heartwarming escape filled with romance, charming characters, and a touch of small-town magic, "Sandcastle Inn" is a perfect choice.
I requested this book through the Revell Reads blogger program. All thoughts are totally my own and freely given.
First, I truly enjoyed this book. I have read others in the series and enjoyed them also. There were characters from previous books and we met new characters. All were a delight to get to know or reacquaint with.
The main characters were quite well-developed. The story flowed well and kept my interest. It was not hard to figure out how it would end, but that really didn't matter as how they got there was the interesting part.
This is a Christian genre book, light on Christian so if you're worried about a preachy book, don't be. The characters did attend church and they did pray occasionally, but that was about the extent of it being Christian other than it was clean.
I read and reviewed an ARC copy and the editing was very well done. Just a couple of small errors that in no way detracted from the book. I give this a solid 4 out of 5-stars and would recommend it to my friends.
Vienna grew up in a single parent household with a mother who was a free spirit. Vienna craved stability in all areas of her life. After college, she had a successful career and literally gave it her everything. But, then, she was let go and her job given to someone else who, rather than burning the midnight oil at work, hung out outside the office with coworkers. How would Vienna have ever known that would go so much further than working all hours and taking no time off?
She decided to take some time and go visit her mother in Hope Harbor. She and her mom used to vacation there in years past. Now, her mom has moved there and opened a book store. While Vienna loves her free spirited mother, she knows she cannot stay in her apartment with her and that this cannot be a lengthy visit.
Then, there's Matt Quinn a veterinarian from San Diego who has came to Hope Harbor to help out his sister, Kay. Kay has recently purchased a B&B that needs a ton of work. Kay is going to help out a friend of theirs, Cora, who they consider family, during a surgery. Matt is in Hope Harbor, both to help his sister with the B&B renovations that are due to begin, and a get-away. Matt has suffered horrific loss and tragedy and his partner encouraged him to take some time off.
A series of events end up throwing Matt and Vienna together to work on the Inn restoration. As for Vienna's relationship with her mom...well, sometimes things aren't as we had thought, and people change over time.
This is book ten in the Hope Harbor series, but is great as a stand alone. Love this series! Great seeing Charley, the taco maker and the seagulls, Gladys and Floyd!
Great story with great characters. Thoroughly enjoyed this one!
I was given an advanced ecopy of this by the publisher, Revell through Netgalley. I was under no obligation to leave a positive review.