This was a lovely book of redemption, friendship and lies. It was a tough read at points as it was talking about coercive behaviour and what seemed like pure fear with its consequence, let alone the loss that came along with it, both with family and friendships.

Starshine Cove is a place of love, surprises and redemption, and love that people come through the other side better, despite the challenges that happen within their story.

I can't wait to read the next instalment of this series!

Lucy Brown has been avoiding her past for years, seeking refuge far from her old life and her ex-husband Robert. Reluctantly, she agrees to attend her friend Ella's wedding in Starshine Cove, Dorset. Little does she know, this trip will unravel unexpected connections and stir up long-buried emotions. An encounter with a charming stranger at the airport sparks something deeper, turning Lucy's simple holiday into a journey of self-discovery. But just as she starts to embrace the possibilities of the present, her haunting past resurfaces, threatening to shatter the newfound happiness. As Lucy grapples with her past and present colliding, she wonders if the enchanting aura of Starshine Cove can mend her broken heart or if she's finally met her match in this seaside village.

This book is really sweet, to put it simply. It grabbed my attention from the very beginning, starting off with Lucy pretending to be someone else when talking to a handsome stranger at the airport, thinking she'll never see him again, sort of her alter ego. Lucy initially seems to be doing great considering the trauma she has from her ex-husband. I haven't come across many books that depict both the good and bad sides of narcissism, and how critical it can sometimes be. From the beginning, the characters are well-characterised, with the main character, Lucy, explaining her feelings and thoughts, which is often relatable. I like the small love story that isn't the main focus of this book; it complements it perfectly. I definitely recommend reading this book if you want something light and quick to read. This book is the third in the "Starshine Cove" series, it's the first one I've read from this series, which means it can be read as a standalone, nothing is missing in terms of context. The book drew me in so much that I'll definitely read the rest of the series. I hope there will be more books in this series, Starshine Cove seems like a very sweet and accessible little village.

It was lovely to be transported back to Starshine Cove with Lucy this time. She is a friend of Ella and is there to attend Ella and Jake's wedding when she meets Josh, Jake's brother and best man, who she had previously met and flirted with in the airport on the way. Lucy is a single mother to Rose after an unhappy marriage to a controlling husband. I really enjoyed Lucy's character and the setting for this book and s
eries is fabulous. A big 5 stars from me!
Thanks to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for the advance copy of this ebook

This is the first book that I've read by Ms. Johnson and I'm glad I found her. Her writing style is as easy to read as it's engaging, it's also so much more than a mere love story! She writes about bullying and relationship difficulties with ease and even when things are difficult to contemplate they also have a hint of humor and hope. Finding Hope in Starshine Cove is undoubtedly a work of fiction but it's one that gives hope to all of those who are battling against unhealthy relationships and that are hoping for better ends.
I thank Ms. Johnson, her publisher, and NetGalley for this ARC.

This book is actually book number three in the ‘Starshine Cove’ series but can very easily be read as a stand alone, without any problems at all…..

I have already read quite a few of this authors books before and like her other books this one was perfect too and i thoroughly enjoyed everything about it…

It was a wonderful, heartwarming story with new beginnings and tales of friendship and second chances…

This was quite an emotional read and i found myself facing a whirlwind of feelings along the way….

I loved Starshine Cove and all the people that i have met along the way…..

Nice story

This is the third book in this series, and while I hadn’t read the first two, I didn’t feel too lost. The author does a good job of giving enough background so the reader is up to date on the characters. This is Lucy’s story, but it’s also Lyssa’s story. Both of them faced their pasts and found reasons for hope while in Starshine Cove.

I think anyone who enjoys clean cozy stories set in the UK will like this book. Some romance, but mostly women friendships and support for each other. Quick well-written read.

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.

It's hilarious, full of love, and full of family drama! Sometimes, it takes you a long time to notice that you are not being treated well. Once you learn that, it may take an eternity for you to forget about the bad things. You may not get over it, but you keep going with a lot of humor. It's a story well told.

Oh my word, what a roller coaster ride of emotions in this book! Lucy's story had me racing through the pages desperate to find out what happened next! I thoroughly enjoyed reading this, bravo!

4 stars out of 5.

This is the first book by Debbie Johnson I have read and I really enjoyed it. This is the 3rd book in the series but I felt it read as a standalone. Starshine Cove sounds like an amazing place that I would love to visit! The author does a great job of transporting us there and I thought the book flowed so well. The characters were all likable and I really enjoyed watching Lucy and Josh's relationship bloom. The ending tied everything up nicely too. Overall, this was a heartwarming book and I would recommend it.

In Finding Hope in Starshine Cover, we meet Lucy and her teenage daughter Rose. Lucy was in an abusive relationship with her ex husband (Rose's father) and still finds herself cowering from the world. They end up going to Starshine Cove for Lucy's long time friend's wedding. On the way, Lucy meets a guy named Josh at the airport. She gives him a fake name and back story for fun thinking she would never see him again. Turns out, Josh is the grooms brother who just arrived at Starshine Cove. After explaining herself to Josh, they decide to be civil to get through the wedding. Josh hates liars so he is pretty disappointed and hurt with her actions. As the days go by it seems Lucy and Josh might have a spark but is Lucy ready for a relationship yet?

Thank you Netgalley and Storm Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.

★ 3.5 stars.

"Finding Hope in Starshine Cove" by Debbie Johnson takes readers on a journey to the picturesque village of Starshine Cove, where old friendships are rekindled and new connections are made. Lucy Brown, our protagonist, finds herself confronting her past and navigating the complexities of starting over in a place that holds both beauty and healing.

Johnson's depiction of Starshine Cove is enchanting, painting a vivid picture of a quaint seaside village that feels like a character in its own right. From the charming locals to the breathtaking scenery, the setting serves as the perfect backdrop for Lucy's emotional journey.

At the heart of the story is Lucy's struggle to overcome the scars of her past, particularly her experiences with psychological abuse. Johnson handles this delicate subject matter with sensitivity, highlighting the impact it has had on Lucy and those around her. Lucy's daughter, Rose, emerges as a standout character, offering both wisdom beyond her years and moments of teenage rebellion.

While the romance between Lucy and Josh provides a delightful subplot, the real focus of the story is Lucy's journey toward self-discovery and healing. Although the pacing may feel slow at times, particularly due to the weighty themes addressed, the payoff is worth it as Lucy learns to find hope and happiness in Starshine Cove.

Overall, "Finding Hope in Starshine Cove" is a heartwarming tale that balances light-hearted moments with deeper emotional resonance. With its charming setting, relatable characters, and themes of resilience and renewal, it's sure to captivate readers looking for a feel-good read.

Most stories could use a little magic. Give me 300 pages of introspective literary fiction and I'll show you a story that wouldn't be hurt by a sudden curse or other bit of wand waving.

Debbie Johnson gets that. In Finding Hope in Starshine Cove, third in her Starshine Cove series, Johnson returns to the titular idyllic village in southwest England that seems to open itself to individuals just when they most need a visit. Quite literally. In a bit of Brigadoon-esque charm, Starshine Cove doesn't show up on any maps and appears virtually unreachable unless you have an invitation or purpose. Fortunately, Lucy Brown, after reconnecting with college pals, has a wedding to attend and we're treated to her first exposure to this somewhat offbeat, perhaps literally charming locale.

While this hint of the slightly mystic is left primarily to the town itself, in the first chapter, Lucy weaves some magic of her own. Sitting at the airport, waiting on a plane so she can pick up her teenage daughter, Rose, who's visiting Lucy's ex-husband, she makes up stories while observing fellow passengers. When a handsome stranger, Josh, begins hitting on her, she can't help but conjure up an alter ego in the form of Amelia to flirt right back. Because while Amelia might be confident, Lucy Brown sure isn't.

This is only one scene, but it illustrates a major part of why Finding Hope in Starshine Cove, fantastical elements and all, works—Johnson has tapped into the mess and joy of being human. Lucy, still struggling after an abusive relationship with her ex, can't seem to move comfortably in her own life. Making up tales in her head while people watching is cute, but Johnson immediately follows with a disappointing encounter with Josh. Having lied about her identity, nothing serious could ever happen between them and they go their separate ways. It's an idea Johnson deftly returns to again and again. We, as readers, come to know Lucy as a funny, good person, but she sabotages her own happiness based on a mound of self-doubt.

After reconnecting with her (immensely likable) daughter, Lucy lands in Starshine Cove, a place where everyone seems to care for their neighbor and at least one person is obsessed with a Big Mouth Billy Bass (also immensely likable). In true magic fashion, Josh, who's actually related to the groom, turns up, and it's suddenly a whirlwind of the two awkwardly reconnecting. At least initially. After all, even if she doesn't see it, Lucy is painted as a lovely catch, and it's genuinely sweet as Josh slowly peels back at her guarded layers.

However, it's not all unicorns and rainbows, and Johnson also handles some serious topics, including abuse, with tact while not shying away. While magic or luck might have guided Lucy and Josh back together, Johnson never suggests some spell can suddenly heal old wounds. Rather, the remedy must come from her richly drawn characters themselves. It's perhaps the strongest addition to an otherwise riotously funny, thoughtful book.

Ultimately, Finding Hope in Starshine Cove is a touch of magic and a lot of heart.

Finding Hope in Starshine Cove was such a wholesome read. I really enjoyed that the main character was a bit older and with an older kid - most books in this genre are younger women so it was a refreshing change.

Some tears, some laugh out loud moments and some genuinely tense moments scattered in. Part of a series but works well as a standalone.

Funny, lots of great character and full of joy. 4 stars

I received a free copy of, Finding Hope in Starshine Cove,by Debbie Johnson, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is book 3 of 3 in The Starshine Cove series. Lucy Brown is a bit of a recluse, she has to return to the living to got her friends wedding in Starshine Cove, Dorset. The past always seems to catch up with us as it does with Lucy. Lucy is much stronger then she thinks she is, after being controlled for so long, she has come out much stronger on the other side. I was rooting for Lucy, throughout the book. I enjoyed this book.

Starshine Cove sounds like a lovely place to live. Full of friends and people who help each other.
It’s a nice story about Lucy and Josh who actually meet in the airport the first time. It’s another perfect beach read!
Thanks to the publisher and Netgalley for the early copy

The perfect summer escape. No better summer feeling than in the pages of a debbie Johnson book. There's enough happiness in this book to warm up even the coldest days

I received an ARC of this book from NetGalley in exchange for an honest review.

This is a cozy, charming, delightful book!

This is such a wonderful, heartwarming and gorgeous read. It is part 3 in the Starshine Cove series, although it can be read as a standalone novel. I suggest that you read the first 2 books though, as it is such a fantastic series.
This book features Lucy and Josh, and Lucy's daughter Rose. They are all new characters who are attending Ella's wedding in Starshine Cove. We also catch up with the characters from the previous books as the whole village preparing for the wedding.
There are some difficult and hard hitting subjects in this book, but they are dealt with sensitively. Despite the difficult themes, the book still manages to have plenty of humour and feel-good moments. I really enjoyed reading this book and hope that there will be more visits to Starshine Cove.
Thank you to Netgalley and Storm Publishing for my ARC.

This is the first book I have read by this author and it will definitely not be the last. I initially thought that the story would be predictable but how wrong I was. The author gets to grips with some very uncomfortable issues and deals with them really sympathetically. Great characters and a wonderful ‘feel good’ feeling. Thoroughly recommended.

I enjoyed this story of Lucy Brown who finds love while attending her best friend’s wedding in star shine cove, after overcoming her trauma from an abusive relationship with her ex-husband . Lucy proves to herself and her daughter what strength and courage truly mean .

I really enjoyed being back at Starshine Cove, with lots of regular faces back to say hello. This story focused on Lucy and Josh, Lucy damaged by her previous husband meets Josh at the airport and makes up an exciting persona little does she know that she will meet Josh again. Lovely story of friendship, love and community spirit. Thank you netgalley for the advanced copy