Book Review (and a Sea Rose Lane mini review bonus!): Sandpiper Cove by Irene Hannon

After a devastating layoff, attorney Eric Nash heads back to the town where he grew up–only to discover that his childhood home is being transformed into a bed & breakfast.

Instead of plotting his next career move in peace, he’s constantly distracted by noise, chaos–and BJ Stevens, the attractive but prickly blonde architect and construction chief who’s invaded the house with her motley crew.

As for BJ, her client’s son might be handsome, but after a disastrous romance, dating isn’t high on her agenda. Yet when they join forces to create a program for Hope Harbor seniors, might they also find healing, hope, and a new beginning themselves?

Three-time RITA Award winner Irene Hannon takes readers back to Hope Harbor for a new season of charm, romance, and second chances.

SERIES: Hope Harbor #2
GENRE: Inspirational Contemporary Romance
PUBLISHER: Revell
RELEASE DATE: June 7, 2016
PAGES: 362

“One lesson I’ve learned–worry doesn’t change tomorrow, it only robs today of its joy.”

Bottom Line: This second book in the Hope Harbor series is just as intriguing as the first, though each book in the series works well as a standalone too. While BJ and Eric’s journey to happily ever after is the focus of this novel, it was actually Luis’ storyline that most captivated me. Don’t get me wrong – I loved the romance too (of course) but Luis’ subplot had so much dimension and emotion that I was always eager for an update. And Charley. Picture the big grin on my face. I adore Charley and his taco stand which dispenses as much wisdom as it does flavor.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.)

My Rating: 4 stars / Love it!

KissingBook Level: 3 / Will forget to breathe on occasion

Hope Harbor police chief Lexie Graham has plenty on her plate raising her son alone and dealing with a sudden rash of petty theft and vandalism in her coastal Oregon hometown. As a result, she has zero time for extracurricular activities–including romance.

Ex-con Adam Stone isn’t looking for love either–but how ironic is it that the first woman to catch his eye is a police chief? Yet wishing for things that can never be is foolish.

Nevertheless, when Lexie enlists Adam’s help to keep a young man from falling into a life of crime, sparks begin to fly. And as they work together, it soon becomes apparent that God may have a different–and better–future planned for them than either could imagine.

Lauded by Library Journal as “a master at character development,” Irene Hannon welcomes readers back to this charming Oregon seaside village where hearts heal–and love blooms.

SERIES: Hope Harbor #3
GENRE: Inspirational Contemporary Romance
PUBLISHER: Revell
RELEASE DATE: April 4, 2017
PAGES: 352

Other Books In This Series

“In the end, it comes down to trust. We have to accept that God understands why things happen, even if we don’t…”

First, let me say that I am THRILLED to report there are more Hope Harbor books to come! I was so afraid that Sandpiper Cove would be the last in Irene Hannon’s delightful series, but her author’s note at the end put those fears to rest. <<Commence happy dancing>>

Now, on to this book!

In a simple phrase – there is so much to love about Sandpiper Cove. Charley, who always knows more than he logically should and gives out well-timed advice with his tacos. Father Murphy and Reverend Baker and their goodnatured bantering. Floyd and Gladys, the husband and wife team of … seagulls. (Yes, you read that right) Clyde, the faithful canine companion who resembles his human in spirit if not looks. The vivid setting that has me wanting to book an immediate vacation on the Oregon coast.

And of course the focus of this novel – Adam and Lexie. Two wounded souls trying to find healing and peace. An unlikely pair, perhaps – an excon and the police chief – but only on the surface. In their hearts, they are well-matched. Both have tragic backstories and uncertain futures, and watching them fall in love is “blissful sigh” combined with “keep a fan handy”. Never sappy, but the right amount of sweet kept a smile on my face as I followed their story.

Bottom Line: Any day becomes a good day when I get to visit Hope Harbor through the pages of another Irene Hannon novel. Sandpiper Cove is no exception. Laughter, wisdom and grace abound in each book in the series. The characters – and the setting – are vibrant, and I can easily picture them in my mind as I read. The message of hope and faith is sincere and organically woven into the story’s framework in such a way as to be clear without being preachy or trite. Adam and Lexie’s romance sparks with electricity and some great kisses – and of the  love stories in Hope Harbor theirs is so far my favorite!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book which I received from the publisher. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.)

My Rating: 5 stars / LOVE!

KissingBook Level: 3.5 / Keep that fan handy!

Irene Hannon is the best-selling author of more than 35 novels. Her books have been honored with the coveted RITA Award from Romance Writers of America, the HOLT Medallion, the Reviewer’s Choice Award from Romantic Times BOOKreviews magazine and the Daphne du Maurier Award for mystery/suspense. Irene and her husband make their home in Missouri, USA.

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Other Books by Irene Hannon