A year ago, ex-Delta Force operator Steven Roark left the rigors of combat behind to run fishing charters in Hope Harbor, decompress, and talk some sense into his kid brother. Business is good–but making peace with his past is more challenging than he expected.First-grade teacher Holly Miller leads a quiet, low-profile existence–until she’s recruited to advocate for a cause that’s dear to her … dear to her heart. When she solicits Steven’s assistance, sparks fly–especially after they find themselves on opposite sides of an issue that disrupts their placid seaside community.
As these two seemingly incompatible souls search for common ground, might they discover a deeper connection–and find that love can banish darkness and light the way to a future filled with promise?
Bestselling and award-winning author Irene Hannon invites you back to Hope Harbor–where hearts heal . . . and love blooms.
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Irene Hannon is one of my favorite authors. I like this story because it is about people and how they deal with life. It’s not about a murder, or missing child, or unfaithful spouse, or any other crazy thing like that. Yes, there is tension and obstacles to overcome in this book. But the author reveals details in a slow manner that keeps you reading. At a time such as this, it is a book of hope, forgiveness, and redemption.
Thank you to NewGalley for an ARC for an honest review.
Starfish Pier is a great book as are all the other Hope Harbor books by Irene Hannon. Irene Hannon books are never a disappointment. Excellent!!
3.5 stars
“Lots of people write off potential friends who seem too different at first glance. The trick is taking a second look – and checking out their heart as well as their face.”
Well, if making friends with the enigmatic charter boat captain was based solely on first glances, then there was a lot of handsome to look at, if she were looking. However, all that Holly Miller had hoped to accomplish by teetering down the dock, was to ask Steven Roark to consider donating a charter fishing trip for the local Helping Hands fund-raiser; what she got in return was an adamant difference of opinion.
In spite of their awkward beginnings, Holly and Steven’s paths continue to cross. After all, Hope Harbor is not that big, and the community is known for its hospitality. Overcoming obstacles have led both of them to a deeper understanding of themselves, but it’s the mistakes that Steven has buried from his past that may prove to be too overwhelming for Holly to overcome . . . unless she can accept the fact that love isn’t designed to demand perfection, but rather to “keep no record of wrongs”.
Holly and Steven’s path towards wholeness is only one of three major story lines in this book, each of which could have stood on their own, but needed the strength of the other to make this such a satisfying read.
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!
“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 with 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 that might be difficult for readers. 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.
TOUGH VS TENDER!
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.
This book is no different than the five previous books in the Hope Harbor series, in that it is absolutely delightful and will warm your heart right from the start. Each of these books can be read as a standalone, however, reading them all introduces you to the many residents of Hope Harbor.
This story focuses on the Roark family, Steven, who has returned from being deployed as a member of the Delta Force, his brother Patrick, and his wife Cindy. Because of a letter Steven received while in the Middle East from Cindy expressing concern about Patrick, he retired from the military and came home. All those close to Patrick could clearly see alcohol was an issue. After being home for a year, Steven didn’t feel like he’d been able to help his brother and in fact, their relationship was on shaky ground.
Holly, a first grade teacher recently moved to Hope Harbor to begin a new, more independent life. Although nearly 30, her parents had difficulty letting her go because of a medical condition. Because she wants to make friends and feel part of the community, she gets involved in the volunteer organization, Helping Hands. She and Steven meet when she approaches him to make a donation to a fund raising event sponsored by Helping Hands. Steven runs a charter fishing boat, and she found him on the boat, asking him to possibly donate a fishing trip. They do not seem to hit it off very well, and Steven doesn’t feel he actually can support the volunteer group.
The Roark family is on a rocky journey, but as the story unfolds, the outpouring of love and support of the community is touching. Holly is on a mission to help a new elderly neighbor who just moved in next door to her. The way the story unfolds and comes together makes for a beautiful, heartwarming story that will touch your heart. I love how Irene Hannon so masterfully weaves her own faith into her books. I continued to think of the residents of Hope Harbor even after the last page was turned. I am so happy to know that there will be a book #7!
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.
What a wonderful return to Hope Harbor! Holly and Steven come from very different backgrounds, with issues that could easily divide them. Some of the topic could be controversial, but Irene Hannon handles it well and helps the reader, as well as Holly and Steven, see that there is more than meets the eye in most issues and experiences. I enjoyed getting to catch up with Charley, Father Murphy, Pastor Paul, and other residents of Hope Harbor. I recommend this emotional and touching book!
‘God wouldn’t be interested in the likes of him.’
Irene Hannon once more takes her readers back to the quaint, peaceful, and encouraging town of Hope Harbor on the Oregon coast. I’ve grown to love this place, even if I’m not a beach person. The residents work their way into your heart and you just can’t help but love them. My favorite is Charley, the taco man, who I’m convinced in an angel. Just my opinion.
This time in Hope Harbor, we meet Holly Miller and Steven Roark, both of whom have issues that plague them from time to time. Holly’s is physical, due to a birth defect, and Steven’s is emotional. Along the way, we hear from both the town’s pastor and the priest, who are completely endearing. I want to visit the priest’s meditation garden! Issues arise that have both Holly and Steven in turmoil and they have to search their hearts to determine if they can overcome these deeply felt emotional qualms if they are to even have a chance at a happily ever after.
Irene Hannon is always good. Just good. She delves into her characters’ hearts and gives the readers glimpses of what lies beneath. She also manages to incorporate plot lines of secondary characters into these wonderful Hope Harbor stories. This one’s was precious. Another great read from an author I love. Recommended.
*My thanks to Revell Publishing for a copy of this book via Net Galley. The opinion stated here is entirely my own.+
Irene Hannon’s Starfish Pier, book six in the Hope Harbor series, is an absolutely charming and sweet read from cover to cover. This book is about how everyone is different and everyone has a past to overcome and a future to pave. It’s about accepting and learning from the past, and striving for a better future. The characters in this book will quickly come to life and almost become friends with those reading the book. This book is masterfully written from multiple points of view, as readers see the healing that comes to a man and his family. But it’s not just about healing, it’s also about falling in love. This is the perfect ending to an unforgettable series.
Series: Hope Harbor
Genre: contemporary, romance, Christian
Publisher: Revell
Publication date: March 31, 2020
Number of pages: 352
Other books in the series:
1-Hope Harbor
2-Sea Rose Lane
3-Sandpiper Cove
4-Pelican Point
5-Driftwood Bay
Disclosure statement: A complimentary review copy of this book was provided from tour groups, publishers, publicists, and authors, including NetGalley, OR was borrowed from the library, including OverDrive, Or borrowed from Kindle Unlimited OR pre-ordered/purchased for review. A review was not required and all views and opinions expressed are my own.
What a roller coaster this book was, hold on and prepare the Tacos!
I loved Starfish Pier by Irene Hannon. From the characters to the setting, it drew me in and made me feel at home from the very beginning. Starfish Pier is part of the Hope Harbor series (I believe book #6) but it can be read as a standalone. All the books are just based in the same town, so you get to see previous and future characters interwoven throughout the series; I think it is a lot like some of the series Debbie Macomber has written.
Holly and Steven were a great combination of characters. Each one had a unique viewpoint, some very different personalities, and struggles to overcome. I loved Holly’s outlook on life, she was always reaching out to others to try and help make their days better even when she was not having a good day herself. Now Steven. I loved his strength, his selflessness, and his willingness to put others before his happiness. His character is someone I could know in real life.
The themes in this book were quite varied, from depression, physical disabilities, overcoming addiction, protection of life… So many thought-provoking arguments were brought forth in this book, and both sides of the arguments were presented, which I thought was interesting. Plus, you cannot forget the yummy Tacos and advice!
I give this book 5 out of 5 stars for the in-depth characters, varied themes, and the love of Tacos! I recommend reading this book!
*I volunteered to read this book in return for my honest feedback. The thoughts and opinions expressed within are my own.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell at Baker Publishing Group in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts below are my own. Read all my book reviews on my website at http://www.turquoiseave.com.
Hannon has lovingly created a town full of ordinary people who’s lives intertwine while weaving together a story of romance, faith and hope. This book is part of a series, but easily reads as a standalone novel. As a matter of fact, I haven’t yet read the stories prior to this one in the series, and this is my first romance novel by Hannon. Since I love her suspense novels, I wanted to give this book a try and I’m glad I did. She is a long-time favorite author of mine and her books are always uplifting, inspirational and worthwhile.
Starfish Pier has all the makings of a great novel – romance, faith, enjoyable characters and a beautiful storyline of hope and even forgiveness. I loved the pro-life aspect of it and how Hannon delicately displays multiple views from a Biblical standpoint. I also enjoyed the gorgeous setting Hannon has created in this novel and felt the peacefulness of the setting wash over me with each new chapter. It was refreshing and lovely.
This book reminds me of a tender, touching Hallmark movie with a light romance, a touch of conflict, predictable ending and multiple characters who’s lives are all interconnected. For readers who enjoy this type of story, you’ll love Starfish Pier and this series. I have rated this book as four stars in its particular genre, rather than given it a personal rating. Because I prefer stories with more depth, danger and excitement (which usually means a different genre) this was more of a 2-3 star read personally due to its predictability and the mediocre passion I felt for the story or characters. However, I know many friends who enjoy a happy, inspirational novel such as this one and would easily give it a perfect rating. Overall, it is a clean read, likable story and appropriate for 13+.
This is the first book I’ve read by Irene Hannon and I enjoyed the book. It is part of the Harbor Hope series but is also a stand-alone book. The story grabbed my attention from the very first chapter and I was kept captivated throughout. There were four main characters in this book and each one had a secret. That was one thing that helped keep my interest. The story flowed well.
I also enjoyed that this was truly a Christian novel. It showed how the characters used their faith to help with their problems. It was not preachy, but faith-based.
The editing was very well done. I don’t remember any errors.
I would recommend this book to my friends. This is my own, honest opinion. I received this book through the Revell Reader’s Blog Program. I am not required to leave a positive review. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.
The Hope Harbor series is truly my favorite series and each time a new book in the series is released, I am reminded why. Irene crafts flawless stories of redemption, mercy and hope in each and every story. Starfish Pier is the latest story to capture my heart within its pages. I loved the character of Holly, she had overcome so much and she was such a sweet person and Steven was a perfect match for her. The secondary stories of Pete and Patrick were a perfect compliment to Holly’s story and the redemptive powers of God that took place in each of their situations made for a compelling read. I loved this book, plain and simple. I look forward to many more trips to Hope Harbor, and never have I wished so much for a fictional town to be real!
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. I received an advance copy from the publisher via NetGalley. I was under no obligation to post a review and have given my honest opinion
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.
STARFISH PIER…Irene Hannon
A birthday without wishes from his brother, a woman came ignore or have someone to chat with for a few minutes. Though she looked like she wanted to flee. Auction for pro life, would he offer a charter fishing deal. Getting her number if he decided to. Holly a teacher and a definite land person, still found him intriguing. Charley with his animals as though they were special friends to him. A story of attraction, different, and finding a common area for love to grow. Taking place in Hope Harbor, a place of memories of her other books we have read.. Given ARC for my voluntary review and my honest
opinion by Net Galley and Revell.
Thank you in advance to the publisher, Revell, and Interviews and Reviews providing a complimentary advance review copy. A positive review was not required. All words and thoughts are my own.
It is worth noting that with Christian and/or Clean Reads I hardly have to add trigger or content warnings. However, with this novel, I have to add both. It starts right off with two hotbed issues that both characters are seemingly on different sides:
* Abortion
* Death Penalty
As two of the items are divisive issues, readers who feel very strongly about them (either side), may want to exercise caution in reading this.
There are also “trigger” warnings as well and readers that are sensitive to the subjects will definitely want to exercise caution:
* Alcoholism
* PTSD
* Suicide/Right to Die
* Cancer
“Starfish Pier” is the sixth (6th) book in the “Hope Harbor” series. Some of the characters from the previous novels are hinted to in this book. This is easily a standalone read, but it would likely be better enjoyed with the entire series.
While the cover depicts a clear, calm, soothing, and tranquil setting – this novel is anything but that – or is it about finding that calm, soothing, and tranquil way of life?
Right off Hannon hits with the issues – it’s clear, in the beginning where Holly and Steven stand on those issues.
But, that isn’t all this book is about.
Hannon has a lot going on in this novel – tackling hot social issues, trigger issues, realities of war/training and the emotional toll, along with tackling disabilities and independence.
Some might consider having all these plot lines “cluttered”, however the author takes great steps in presenting the story without feeling like it is busy. This is a refreshing realistic take. She balances it all with scripture and Christian references; however it isn’t a full-fledged sermon.
The main characters (Steven, Patrick, Holly, Charley, and Pete) were realistically written and all had such diversity to them – a war hero who felt anything but, a mill worker who had to grow up in the shadow of his brother, a teacher living with a disability, a mystic/cook, and a sad older man. Each one of them finds a connection and the reason for it.
Steven is trying to make peace with a violent past, Patrick is finally coming to terms and healing from an embarrassing secret, Holly is trying to navigate her disability along with her life while raising money for charity, Charley is the wise taco maker, and Pete is waiting for everything to end.
In the middle of their drama, an old cannon is found which turns out to belong to a ship once owned by Steven and Patrick’s great-great-grandfather. Thus begins a debate as to what to do with it – display it and celebrate the history, or would they be glorifying a weapon of war?
Charley puts it best – we shouldn’t be in a rush to judge.
Hannon expertly tackles the “opposing views” on each subject in the middle of this romance. The author presented Holly and Steven’s attraction in an amazing realistic manner – they had problems to overcome and didn’t want to get into a relationship. This showed not only great restraint, but also great maturity. However, it also demonstrated an inability to communicate to through the challenges.
The author also points out how being informed on issues helps us make better opinions, especially after an incident with Holly.
Controversial, sad, uplifting, inspiring, beautiful, and poignant – Starfish Pier also has a message of redemption. God forgives us and gives us a second chance. We owe it to ourselves to take the chances and live the life he has given us.
Hannon teaches us that we can consider all sides of an argument without straying from our personal beliefs, along with respecting divergent opinions and recognize the good in imperfect people.
With the way this began, I was a bit cautious and holding on as I didn’t know where the author was taking this. No heated debates, but an honest conversation that shows how our views come from our life experiences, what we’ve been exposed to, and how we were raised.
This was very well written and structured with an easy, natural flow so that it kept my interest. I definitely enjoyed it as I was reading it, and after getting into it, it was difficult to walk away from it. I also have the previous five novels on the TBR (to be read) list.
Fans of the author; and those who enjoy clean and/or Christian reads will probably enjoy this book. As I haven’t read the others in this series, I don’t know if they have similar content in the way of social issues and/or trigger issues though.