Tracy Campbell never wanted to leave Hope Harbor, Oregon, or the idyllic three-generation cranberry farm where she grew up. But life–and love–altered her plans. When tragedy strikes and changes her plans yet again, she finds herself back in her hometown with a floundering farm to run and a heartbreaking secret. Romance is not on her agenda. Nor is it on Michael Hunter’s. The visitor from … from Chicago has daunting secrets of his own. But when Tracy recruits him to help save a struggling charitable organization, the winds of change begin to sweep through Hope Harbor, bringing healing, hope, and love to countless lives–including their own.
Fan favorite Irene Hannon brings a whole new cast of characters to life in a charming Oregon seaside village. Emotional and heartwarming, this story invites readers to come home to Hope Harbor, where love and hope bloom–and hearts heal.
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I was hooked on this plot from the very beginning. A very compelling read! Each character was interesting to see grow throughout the book, and Irene Hannon’s ability to keep you in suspense was very well done. It’s been a while since I’ve read her work, but now I will be sure to read the rest of this series really soon!
In Hope Harbor, it starts out with Michael Hunter who comes to the area for what was supposed to be a vacation, but from the onset, it was a life-changing experience. Not only because of his misadventures in running into Tracy Campbell, but also the cast of other townsfolk whose many ways are just what he needed for any given moment. It makes you think about God’s role in lives of each person you meet in real life, and that no matter how unusual or hopeless circumstances may look at first glance, you can’t ever discount what God may do! Well worth the read and I highly recommend it!!
I just really enjoyed this inspiring read. So refreshing. The characters were all believable and the author brought each to life in a meaningful way.
I love a good story with a happy ending and this book definitely fits that description. Getting to the end was fun and entertaining! I enjoyed the visit to Hope Harbor where the residents are all your neighbors and each one cares about all. When Michael flees heartbreak in Chicago, he did not know what coming to Hope Harbor would bring him. There he met his dour landlady Anna and accidentally ran into bicyclist Tracy. With charm and wit, Michael wins over Anna’s heart and then falls hard for Tracy. He is determined to help her save her family’s cranberry farm and his background in business is just what she needs. My favorite character was Charley at the fish taco stand who seems to know things before others do. But there were so many favorites, too many to name. The author did a wonderful job of telling a story, weaving faith into it and having a satisfying ending.
Disclaimer
I used my Kindle Unlimited account to read this book. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions expressed are my own.
I was introduced to the author’s writing last year with a spiral bound ARC of the sixth (6th) novel in this series, Starfish Pier. I also read the first book in her newest suspense series, Point of Danger (Triple Threat #1).
In anticipation of this year’s newest release in the Hope Harbor series, Blackberry Beach (#7), I decided to buy books 1-5, along with a paperback copy of #6 since my ARC was a bit … unusual.
And, while my TBR list is frighteningly overwhelming, this series is definitely on my “PRIORITY” list.
In April, Revell’s Beyond the Book Facebook Group, picked Hope Harbor (#1) as its monthly read. So, of course it took me nearly a month to read it. Otherwise, this book is a two (2) to three (3) day read as most Revell books are.
This particular book sets the stage for the series and establishes certain characters that may or may not appear over the course of the series.
And, like the other two books, Hannon adds some real-life issues to the story. Some that make readers take stock of their own views as well without coming across as preachy or in-your-face. There is a subtlety that exists keeping the reader focused on the story rather than the individual message.
This book deals heavily with death of a spouse (two in this case), grief, loss, depression, seasonal affective disorder (SAD), suicide, and teen pregnancy. So, it isn’t a light read by any stretch of the imagination. Then again it isn’t a “Debbie Downer” read either.
This fabulous book starts off with a stunning and gorgeous cover that fits this book to a “T”. And, it definitely feels like a vacation or a “second chance” type of location.
Readers will be introduced to Tracy, Michael, Anna, Grace, along with our favorite (as he will become) taco-peddling sage – Charley. Tracy and Michael have similar tragedies as they will come to know.
The POVs switch from Tracey who I wasn’t too sure about, but came to understand; Michael, who I instantly liked and felt sad for; and prickly Anna, who I never really warmed up to, but admired her taking a step forward later in the book.
Written with an easy flow and short chapters; Hope Harbor is dramatic, emotional, inspiring, and thought-provoking.
Right off Michael is disappointed in his trip – the Sea Gull Hotel is closed and he has no idea where he is going to stay. He’s arrived in Hope Harbor as more of a fulfillment promise to his late wife as it was a special place to her. He’s also there to clear his mind and relax from his work.
He then, literally, runs into Tracy.
Anna is pretty much a recluse, but thanks to Charley and his free order of tacos for the guy, she meets Michael. Michael reminds her of her son John. She, for some reason, invites Michael to stay in her annex.
Right off, with that start, Hope Harbor is gripping and emotional; and has me wanting to know more about the three characters.
Tracy is trying to keep her uncle and his wife’s cranberry farm afloat, though it isn’t easy. Hannon realistically threw in the struggles to show what a farming industry faces in today’s world. In addition, Tracy seems to be the “go-to” person for Helping Hands, a charity that needs some structure and financial help.
Michael heads to a church and gives up because of the message. But, clearly there is a reason for his “mission” in Hope Harbor. He runs into Tracy again, though not as devastating as the first time and learns about Helping Hands. He also thinks she’s married. But, that isn’t the case.
Eventually, Tracy gets Michael to volunteer and he helps someone with a simple job. Though, it is clear his talents lie elsewhere. For some reason, he doesn’t want to talk about his job at his non-profit. And, readers learn he lost his wife 18 months ago and Tracy lost her husband 2 years earlier so she “gets” it. Now, Michael wants to know more this fascinating woman.
Anna’s husband is deceased and her son is estranged. And, for a while, the reader has to “hold on” before learning what happened. Though Anna realizes she’s being stubborn which is a terrible way to be. At least she knows it.
Neither Tracy or Michael want to fall in love again. But, as they both learn – God does amazing work at bringing people together. And, on page 86, Hannon uses something my mother used to teach me – “What we want and what God gives us are often two different things.”
Both Michael and Tracy feel responsible for their spouses’ deaths. And, by Michael helping with Tracy’s cranberry farm, the two grow close. Close enough that they end up solving a potential problem with a teen.
Anna has a slight accident that results in her needing assistance, and the young person who comes her way reminds her of the past. Yet, she is still compelled to help the girl.
While Michael still loves his wife, he’s wondering if there is room for someone else, particularly Tracy. He is definitely open to exploring his feelings; but his return to Chicago looms in the distance. Though he does feel like he is dishonoring Julie by enjoying the town she loved.
Tracy then has to confront her own past and tells Michael of her spouse’s death. This might be difficult for readers who’ve lost a loved one in this manner. It is interesting to see how Michael doesn’t judge Tracy and helps her.
Grace helps Anna see why holding on to the past is robbing her of a future. It isn’t until 2/3 in that Anna begins the process of reconciling with her son. And, a tense reunion between Grace and her parents has Anna recounting her own tragic story that led to her current, and lonely life. It was, to me, a risk for Michael to suggest Anna taking Grace in not knowing the situation. And, I am not sure I would’ve suggested it. Still, it works in a way that has a profound effect on everyone.
And, Michael comes up with a unique way to save the cranberry farm that involves Anna.
The ending is a bit predictable, but lovely. And, since it establishes the series, obviously readers will have to keep reading it to see where it is going.
There were times this was an over-whelming read, and other times I just couldn’t put it down. There is a plot point that I hope to see addressed in future novels. I did have an idea as Tracy and Michael were getting together and wondered if they were going to play a part with Grace’s “future”.
One funny moment involves Anna and a rabbit. The readers are also introduced to Floyd the seagull, newly widowed, but gets “Gladys” as a mate.
As it is distributed by Revell; there will be some references to God, second chances, themes of redemption, bible quotes, and LOTS of bible lessons. It is a clean read with no foul language or intimate scenes. There is a “questionable” word in it (sl-t) that some readers might object to.
One of the questions from Beyond the Book addressed the idea of packing up and moving to find love or explore it. It is clear that Michael has nothing in Chicago and could make new memories in Hope Harbor. This book teaches us that sometimes in getting away, we often gain a perspective we don’t have where we are. And, we that we heal by helping.
There is no doubt now that I want to see what becomes of the characters from this book in books 2-6 as they don’t seem to appear in books #6 and #7. I also recommend readers do the same.
Fans of the author, and those who enjoy Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove and Blossom Street series are sure to enjoy this one.
Miracles seem to happen in Hope Harbor, a place where I, as a reader, wanted to spend some time. Authentic characters with realistic struggles drew me into the story. Secondary plots strengthen the novel’s impact.
The story is told in multiple viewpoints. Many interesting characters are introduced along the way, hinting that they might have a bigger part to play in upcoming novels.
Looks like it will be a great series. I’m looking forward to reading more of Hannon’s books!
“Come to Hope Harbor-where hearts heal and love blooms.”
Hope Harbor is full of hurting people. Can they connect to be able to hope again?
Tracy Campbell and Michael Hunter are both mourning their spouses. Tracy is trying to lose herself in keeping her family business afloat. Could the new stranger in town be the answer to her prayers?
“What we want and what God sends our way are often two different things-but He always has our best interest at heart.”
When Michael comes to town, he impacts lives and finds purpose again.
Delightful story of hope and healing. A picturesque setting in Oregon with characters that you want to get to know.
“I have a feeling that in Hope Harbor, anything is possible.”
A visit to Hope Harbor is special and I will be returning.
* I purchased this ebook from Amazon. All opinions are my own.*
This book was great from the start. I loved the realistic descriptions of the characters and how past hurts can be healed. With God, all things are possible.
Pulls you in with wonderful characters and keeps you going till the end.
This story is very good and well written. I really enjoyed how life is So Much Better with Jesus.
I think I have only read one other Irene Hannon book, a suspense. This is an absolutely lovely start to the series. I’m listening to them all. I’m impressed both by the story world development and the author’s voice and interesting characters. The narrator does a good job on this. Highly recommend. I listened to this as an audible.com audiobook.
This was a wonderful book with great characters. Easy to read and easy to care about each person as they learned to realize the guilt they lived with from past experiences, be set free to love again.
4.5 Stars!!
This book was fabulous!
Ms. Hannon did a spectacular job creating a story that captivated and challenged me as a reader and a Christian.
Main characters Tracy and Michael are both trapped in the guilt of their pasts–blinded by remorse and struggling to move on in the wake of tragic circumstances. But when their paths intersect in the incredible seaside town of Hope Harbor, their stories aren’t the only ones impacted…and forever changed.
The imagery was very well done, and Ms. Hannon beautifully captured the essence of a small town–and the secrets buried within. The characters were well-written and developed, and I adored getting to know each one (Charley especially stole a major piece of my heart)!
One of the things I liked BEST about Hope Harbor was the vibrant and powerful themes of Hope and Forgiveness and Redemption…and learning to trust and have faith again, even in the wake of sorrow and overwhelming shame.
Although modern contemporary fiction isn’t usually my favorite genre of CF, and this wonderful story was a “Blind Date” for me–the very first book I’ve ever read from Irene Hannon, I’m so glad JustReadTours chose it for me as it was truly a marvelous story that I thoroughly enjoyed–and I see there are several more books in the series (which is SO exciting!).
Note: I received a copy of this book for FREE, and a positive review was NOT required.
Thank you Just Read for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
Hope Harbor
By: Irene Hannon
*REVIEW* .5
This book introduces a special place-Hope Harbor, Oregon. This town is special because it seems to be a place where residents and visitors take refuge from life’s storms to rest, heal, rejuvenate, ponder and generally look for some kind of direction. Tracy is a resident who runs a cranberry farm. Doesn’t that sound like a beautiful place to live? Michael is a visitor seeking closure for the death of his wife and respite from a stressful job in Chicago. These two literally collide one day, and fate/destiny or whatever you call it, takes over from there. It is obvious they were meant to cross paths. The journey to new beginnings is inspiring, sweet and , at times, heartbreaking. Michael and Tracy have more in common than they might have guessed. Both of these characters are relatable, warm hearted and easy to love. The story is well written, but it is predictable. Regardless, romance readers will delight in this story!
Great book
Irene Hannon is an author I’ve heard of for quite some time, but I have never tried her books. Hope Harbor was an excellent place to start with her library of stories. I liked the fact that the protagonists Michael and Tracy are older (mid 30s), and because of the tragedies in their lives seem even older and mature. The book encompasses the stories of several people in the village of Hope Harbor, Oregon, and as such the book is told through multiple points of view. Rather than being distracting, it provides a richer and more complex novel. Secondary characters Anna and Uncle Bud are dear people, and even the short scene with Michael’s father gave me insight into his dad. I like how the romance built slowly with “fits and starts” as Michael and Tracy tried to reconcile their feelings with their past hurts. Hard issues are dealt with realistically through discussion, tears, and jumbled emotions. I alternately laughed, cried, and sighed throughout the novel. A well-written, page-turning book that I will read many times. Highly recommended.
Loved it! Irene Hannon.does not dissapoint!
I love all Irene Hannon books.
This is the first book that I have read by Irene Hannon. It won’t be the last!.
I loved the story of Michael, Tracy, and Anna. Each with their own boatload of baggage and guilt, though some of it was a bit misplaced in my opinion. Each just getting by on life, sometimes barely hanging on, keeping busy to avoid the issues. When fate, or something more divine, steps in and puts them in each other’s path. Charley seems to aid in that divine guidance too.
I loved the restoration and renewal of faith and love.
It’s time to heal….
I loved the strength of the characters, I loved the second chance concept, the way they all sought to grow their situations, and keep seek a better future.