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...]

Starfish Pier is the sixth book in Irene Hannon’s Hope Harbor series. Each book stands alone but does share characters. This series is set in the fictional seaside town of Hope Harbor, Oregon.

Thirty year old Holly Miller relocated to Hope Harbor from her family home in Eugene, three hours away. She was hired as a first grade teacher mid year. It is her first time away from her very protective parents, an opportunity to stand on her own. Having a health challenge, she needs to prove to herself that she can succeed. She has been well received at her school and in the community and has become active in the Helping Hands volunteer organization which is supported by the two local churches, Grace Christian and St. Francis Catholic. While canvassing for donors for the main fundraising dinner and silent auction to support a new pro-life initiative, Holly pays a visit to charter fishing captain Steven Roark seeking a donation of a charter trip for the auction.

Steven, a former Delta Force sniper, isn’t really interested in supporting this cause. He has too much past baggage to feel comfortable doing so. But he is interested in the solicitor, at least he would be if his reason for returning to Hope Harbor after his service career wasn’t to get his younger brother Patrick on the straight and narrow.

As Holly and Steven keep crossing paths, it becomes more apparent that they might neither be able to ignore the chemistry. When they end up on opposite sides of a community question, it seems that chemistry is the last thing of importance. But as Holly learns more, she understands that it is important to know more than the obvious about any topic, perhaps no topic so much as a person and their background.

This book has many threads running through the story: forgiveness, friendship, independence, resilience, redemption, strength, and empathy. This is a heartwarming story with lovely settings, rich characters, and many positive messages. I did enjoy this book and I do recommend it!

TOUGH VS TENDER!

Ex-Delta Force operator Steven Roark has moved to Hope Harbor to learn to forget his past and live in civilian life. He is running a Charter Fishing business and he will be close to his brother’s family. First Grade Teacher Holly Miller is also a recent newcomer to Hope Harbor. However, instead of being a recluse, she has immersed herself in the lives of the people of the community. At first glance, these two have absolutely nothing in common. However, as author Irene Hannon continues this beautiful story, she allows readers an inside look at their lives and reveals they have much in common. It is a story of tough vs tender; shared hurts bringing people together; finding out the facts before jumping to conclusions and realizing that love never fails. I was provided a complimentary copy of this book by Revell and NetGalley. The opinions expressed here are completely my own and without influence.

Like all of the other books in this series, Starfish Pier is a delightfully sweet, yet meaningful novel. I thought it was going one particular direction and was pleasantly surprised at some of the turns the story took. Holly seems like a cliched character with her beliefs, but her willingness to listen, pray, and change her mind makes this book more relatable.
I continue to enjoy re-meeting residents of Hope Harbor and getting caught up on the lives of characters from previous novels in the series. If you're looking for a heartwarming, thought provoking Christian fiction book, this series should be at the top of your list.

“It was a small gesture—but as the quote from Mother Teresa on the plaque in her parents’ home said, ‘Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.’” Oh, how I love Holly and Stephen’s hearts for others. This quote really expresses the heart of community and Hope Harbor.

This is my first trip to Hope Harbor and I’m hooked. Hannon’s description of this little seaside town in Oregon just has me wanting to move there. I loved the small town feel, the Starfish Pier setting, and all the quirky characters that added depth and humor to the story. The romance was a beauty, too with some major heart issues to overcome for Holly and Stephen. I’m looking forward to going back and reading the rest of the series. It felt like a heart hug from God.

“We simply have to respect divergent opinions and recognize the good in the imperfect people we love—which more often than not will outweigh the bad.” I believe this so true! If we could all just find that common ground of love and respect, then maybe we could live more with forgiveness.

Holly is a strong leading lady who is establishing independence after moving away from home. She doesn’t like seeing people lonely and feels for her reticent neighbor, Pete, who has his own battles. Stephen deals with not feeling he is forgivable or worthy of love. I love how Hannon uses characters in the book to help draw him to forgiveness, healing and ultimately finding true love. He yearns for family and yet, can’t get through his brother’s barriers. As each of them slowly open their hearts, we see healing come from God and community. There are some heavy heart and moral issues dealt with in this book that could be difficult for anyone struggling with pro-life issues. However, I felt Hannon handled it with compassion, sincerity, and grace.

“But as we’re reminded in Corinthians, a love that keeps no record of wrongs . . . that perseveres . . . never fails.” Being able to see past our hurts and differences to the heart of others and how God sees us and others is key to love and forgiveness. Hannon wrote an incredible story of finding healing and forgiveness and even life in the town of Hope Harbor. I’m looking forward to more from this series, but found this easily read as a stand alone novel. If you love contemporary romance that deals with overcoming hard life issues in the fight for love and community, you’ll love Starfish Pier.

I was provided a copy of this book through NetGalley by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

Starfish Pier by Irene Hannon was an enjoyable story. This author has a unique way of writing and handling tough issues. She draws you into her stories and you generally want to see what happens. I loved the setting in Hope Harbor, Oregon, and the fact that it had multiple storylines occurring. Multiple characters were brought into the story from previous books in the series, but it can easily be read as a stand-alone book. I found the book a good read as it was uplifting and inspirational. I recommend it for a great read.

Starfish Pier~a character study on loving imperfect people~classic Irene Hannon!

Starfish Pier offers a return visit to the sleepy seaside town of Hope Harbor. I loved getting reacquainted with taco vendor Charley with his subtle inspirational wisdom, and his sidekick seagulls Gladys and Floyd. I also enjoyed the ongoing friendly competition and banter from Father Murphy and Reverend Baker.

The main spotlight however, is on teacher Holly Miller and fisherman Steven Roark. More opposite characters could not have attracted, but that's the magic of Irene Hannon, making readers consider the possibilities in different points of view. Steven's brother Patrick and his wife Cindy had a strong story to tell also, and I enjoyed the parallel struggles of the two brothers and how each was resolved. Holly's elderly neighbor Pete stands alone, but his journey is no less compelling.
Hannon covers a gamut of issues, alcoholism, physical disabilities, pro life, and physician assisted suicide among them. She does so with a delicate hand allowing readers to weigh out the pros and cons of each situation and come to their own conclusions. This quotes sums it up so well,
"We don't all have to agree on everything in order to create harmony within our own circles. We simply have to respect divergent opinions and recognize the good in the imperfect people we love--which more often than not will outweigh the bad."
I appreciate Revell making a copy of Starfish Pier available for review. All thoughts and opinions are my very own.

This book is phenomenal. I love this series so much and it just keeps getting better and better.
Irene Hannon has a knack for drawing you into these characters lives and making you feel completely invested in their happiness and well being.
I am so glad this is a long running series, I don't think I'll ever be ready to say goodbye to these characters.

Starfish Pier is book number 6 in the Hope Harbor series. It works well as a standalone.

This book has three different story lines about people who live in Hope Harbor, Oregon. While the main story is about Holly Miller and Steven Roark, their meeting and attraction to each other, and I did enjoy it, my favorite was one of the secondary stories about an older man named Pete who moves to the area and doesn’t have any close relatives or friends. I love how the residents of Hope Harbor reach out to support him.

The book is truly an inspirational novel and definitely comes across as Christian

.

This is a feel-good story about a small town called Hope Harbor. I loved the character development and enjoyed the recurring characters from her previous release, especially our two winged friends (you know who you are ;)). If you enjoy sweet romance and quirky beach towns, you’ll love this read.

Starfish Pier by Irene Hannon is part of the Hope Harbor series. In my favorite series by this author, a community is explored as the stories focus on a different couple in each book. If you have kept up with the series by now you feel a part of it, hoping Charley’s is open and the gulls are nearby.

Quite a few have found love, redemption and a sense of home in this community. However, none have seemed more opposite than the main couple in this novel. Not because of their work or former work really but because their positions on certain strong issues were so different. As the plot progresses the hand of God is seen as the characters draw closer to Him as well as each other. Lives are changed,

The two subplots are just as interesting. In any community there is always more than one thing happening which Ms. Hannon is excellent at portraying in her stories. Also is the connection between people in the community and happenings within that community, that is so clear in this story.

While I wasn’t sure that I would enjoy reading these characters story, I found that it is a fabulous uplifting read. I can highly recommend Starfish Pier to Christian fiction fans. They won’t be disappointed.

The publisher through Net Galley provided an ARC. I have voluntarily decided to read and review, giving my personal opinions and thoughts.

I would say this book does discuss some very tough issues. The author had a way of getting to the heart of the matter that's for sure. I did feel like the book dragged some. I like Steven why he faced his own demons he had a big heart of wanting to help those around him. As in all Hope Harbor book Charley, Gladys and Floyd make appearances through out and I always love them they have a way of adding a good laugh to the story, but Charley has away of knowing just what to say when it needs to be said and giving the guidance and wisdom. I had mix feeling on Holly but in the end she grew on me. Over all this is a good clean read and may be suitable to all.

Ms. Hannon’s newest release takes readers back to Hope Harbor to tell a story of two of the town’s residents. This inspirational romantic novel takes the reader on a journey that allows the reader to see the value of life and how to overcome problems no matter how difficult. This story focuses on redemption and building character. Readers will get to hear from previous characters including one of my favorites, Charlie. This book focuses on Steven who has come to Hope Harbor to help his brother and his family. Steven runs a charter, but wants to find something more meaningful. Holly teaches first grade and Steven’s nephew is in Holly’s class. In addition to these two characters and Steven’s family, readers will meet Holly’s neighbor, Pete. Ms. Hannon writes a beautiful story where hope can be found and the sanctity of life is shown to be important for all. This is an inspirational story of hope. I highly recommend this book and do not think you will be disappointed! I have read other books in this series and recommend them as well!
***I was given a free electronic copy of this book from the publisher for an honest review. This is my honest opinion. Even though I received this copy free, I have purchased her books before.

I have been enjoying the Hope Harbor series by Irene Hannon since reading Hope Harbor, book one in the series. I have been watching for Starfish Pier to become available since I finished reading the previous book, Driftwood Bay. Irene Hannon is a wonderful author, whether she is writing a series such as Hope Harbor or suspense filled novels with high intrigue. I have become a steady fan over many years.


Hope Harbor is just the place you want to come to for relaxation, a view of the ocean and small town camaraderie at Charley's Fish Taco truck. It is not the place you come to if you want to be removed from all human contact. Holly Miller encounters just such a man when her new neighbor Pete moves next door. Meeting him soon after encountering an abrupt Steven Roark surprised her when everyone else in her new town were so friendly. At times I wondered how this would all tie together, but that is part of what makes Hannon's books so good to read. There seemed to be so many roadblocks for Holly and Steven, yet I couldn't help but wonder "why not?" Each had reasons they couldn't let go of that would hinder a loving relationship.


Letting go of the past can be difficult in order to live in the present. Sometimes that very idea of community can be stifling when we encounter the same people wherever we go. But sometimes that is the very thing that can heal the heart. This book touches on some of the issues many face in our society today. They are not sugar coated but bring a message of hope where these wonderful characters are facing a challenge. They are all fictional, of course, but each serves a purpose to bring the story together in the end. Characters and locations from the previous stories are woven into the story and mesh with this new set of characters.



I appreciate receiving an advance copy of the book for review from NetGalley. The opinions expressed are my own, but I do recommend this book with 5 stars. It is like visiting one of your favorite locations and visiting with good friends.

I liked the unlikely main character in this book. She was a complex character and enjoyable to see her in the story. The romance was a bit run of the mill but still entertaining.

This is the story of ex Delta Force operator Steven Roark who left combat to run a fishing charter in Hope Harbor. Holly Miller is a first grade teacher who is recruited to help with a cause that is important to her. When she asks Steven for help they are on opposite sides of the issue. Can love make them get through there differences?


I really enjoyed this book it was a cute story with a somewhat unique plot. Not only do they have the main story of the book they also work on Steven trying to help his brother and Holly trying to help her neighbor. It was a quick read and I really enjoyed it. I will definitely be checking out more books by this author. The characters feel real with real problems. I received a free Advanced copy of this book from Netgalley and here is my honest review I would reccomend it to my family and friends and I would of read it even if i didn't receieve a free copy.

This was a very well-written thoughtful Christian romance about love and forgiveness. The main characters were likeable and flawed. The small town setting was almost like another character, full of its own flaws and beauty. The plot made me think of my own life decisions, and my faith. I hope to read more stories from this series. I received an advanced reader's copy from Netgalley in exchange for my honest review.

I love visiting Hope Harbor...and you will too. You will be reunited w/ old friends...and meet several new ones in this delightful series. Savor this novel...It's rich, it's deep and it's classic Irene Hannon. Five Stars.

"You already have had a positive impact, Pete. On your neighbor Holly. On Patrick and his family. On the minister and priest. Perhaps on the clerk at the grocery store. That kind word you said to her on your last visit, when she seemed down, could have gotten her over a hump. We're all like stones tossed in the water, creating a ripple effect with outer limits too far away for us to see. But God sees them."

I think this quote from the book says everything that this book has made me feel. It doesn't hurt to show compassion to someone, especially with what's going on now. I'm sure most of you know what I'm referring to. Hannon hits it head-on throughout the book. In fact, this little quote made me stop and think about it, and it almost made me cry.

All of these people in this story are my friends, and I truly wanted to reach out and help them, but I finally woke up and came back to reality.
However, there are people in real life that we can help. Just say hi or give someone a smile whenever you see them. You never know what someone may be going through.

I really enjoyed Taco Charlie. I loved him for his words of wisdom, and I think I might've drooled a little when he whipped up one of his famous tacos. I do hope he shows up again in the series. Hope Harbor wouldn't be the same without him.

I loved this book so much that I didn't want to put it down. Hannon is a wonderful storyteller. I always look forward to seeing what she comes out with next.

5 stars for this stellar book! The cover is beautiful.

My thanks to Netgalley and the courtesy of Baker House/Revell for a copy through Interviews and Reviews.

Irene Hannon’s latest venture into the quaint little town of Hope Harbor finds Holly Miller, a first grade teacher newly transplanted to the area, who’s ready to prove she can stand on her own. And then there’s Steven Roark, an ex-Delta Force operator turned charter boat captain seeking solace from his past and a way to help his brother.

Will the healing powers of Hope Harbor—along with Charley’s famous fish tacos and perfectly timed wisdom—once again work their magic? Like the seagulls Floyd and Gladys, readers will fly through these pages to find the answer. Starfish Pier is a heartwarming addition to the Hope Harbor series and only makes me wish even more that I could visit there myself.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.