What do you think?
Rate this book
Rose Harbor #1
The Inn at Rose Harbor
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber comes the first book in a new series set in the beloved Pacific Northwest town of Cedar Cove.
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber comes a heartwarming new series based in the Pacific Northwest town of Cedar Cove, where a charming cast of characters finds love, forgiveness, and renewal behind the doors of the cozy Rose Harbor Inn.
Jo Marie Rose first arrives in Cedar Cove seeking a sense of peace and a fresh start. Coping with the death of her husband, she purchases a local bed-and-breakfast—the newly christened Rose Harbor Inn—ready to begin her life anew. Yet the inn holds more surprises than Jo Marie can imagine.
Her first guest is Joshua Weaver, who has come home to care for his ailing stepfather. The two have never seen eye to eye, and Joshua has little hope that they can reconcile their differences. But a long-lost acquaintance from Joshua’s high school days proves to him that forgiveness is never out of reach and love can bloom even where it’s least expected.
The other guest is Abby Kincaid, who has returned to Cedar Cove to attend her brother’s wedding. Back for the first time in twenty years, she almost wishes she hadn’t come, the picturesque town harboring painful memories from her past. And while Abby reconnects with family and old friends, she realizes she can only move on if she truly allows herself to let go.
A touching novel of life’s grand possibilities and the heart’s ability to heal, The Inn at Rose Harbor is a welcome introduction to an unforgettable set of friends.
From the Hardcover edition.
Length: 9 hrs and 34 mins
From #1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber comes a heartwarming new series based in the Pacific Northwest town of Cedar Cove, where a charming cast of characters finds love, forgiveness, and renewal behind the doors of the cozy Rose Harbor Inn.
Jo Marie Rose first arrives in Cedar Cove seeking a sense of peace and a fresh start. Coping with the death of her husband, she purchases a local bed-and-breakfast—the newly christened Rose Harbor Inn—ready to begin her life anew. Yet the inn holds more surprises than Jo Marie can imagine.
Her first guest is Joshua Weaver, who has come home to care for his ailing stepfather. The two have never seen eye to eye, and Joshua has little hope that they can reconcile their differences. But a long-lost acquaintance from Joshua’s high school days proves to him that forgiveness is never out of reach and love can bloom even where it’s least expected.
The other guest is Abby Kincaid, who has returned to Cedar Cove to attend her brother’s wedding. Back for the first time in twenty years, she almost wishes she hadn’t come, the picturesque town harboring painful memories from her past. And while Abby reconnects with family and old friends, she realizes she can only move on if she truly allows herself to let go.
A touching novel of life’s grand possibilities and the heart’s ability to heal, The Inn at Rose Harbor is a welcome introduction to an unforgettable set of friends.
From the Hardcover edition.
Length: 9 hrs and 34 mins
8 pages, Audiobook
First published August 14, 2012
1974 people are currently reading
13931 people want to read
About the author
Debbie Macomber
908 books20.7k followersDebbie Macomber is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and one of today’s most popular writers with more than 200 million copies of her books in print worldwide. In her novels, Macomber brings to life compelling relationships that embrace family and enduring friendships, uplifting her readers with stories of connection and hope. Macomber’s novels have spent over 1,000 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Fifteen of these novels hit the number one spot.
In 2023, Macomber’s all-new hardcover publication includes Must Love Flowers (July). In addition to fiction, Macomber has also published three bestselling cookbooks, three adult coloring books, numerous inspirational and nonfiction works, and two acclaimed children’s books.
Celebrated as “the official storyteller of Christmas”, Macomber’s annual Christmas books are beloved and six have been crafted into original Hallmark Channel movies. Macomber is also the author of the bestselling Cedar Cove Series which the Hallmark Channel chose as the basis for its first dramatic scripted television series. Debuting in 2013, Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove was a ratings favorite for three seasons.
She serves on the Guideposts National Advisory Cabinet, is a YFC National Ambassador, and is World Vision’s international spokesperson for their Knit for Kids charity initiative. A devoted grandmother, Debbie and Wayne live in Port Orchard, Washington, the town which inspired the Cedar Cove series.
In 2023, Macomber’s all-new hardcover publication includes Must Love Flowers (July). In addition to fiction, Macomber has also published three bestselling cookbooks, three adult coloring books, numerous inspirational and nonfiction works, and two acclaimed children’s books.
Celebrated as “the official storyteller of Christmas”, Macomber’s annual Christmas books are beloved and six have been crafted into original Hallmark Channel movies. Macomber is also the author of the bestselling Cedar Cove Series which the Hallmark Channel chose as the basis for its first dramatic scripted television series. Debuting in 2013, Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove was a ratings favorite for three seasons.
She serves on the Guideposts National Advisory Cabinet, is a YFC National Ambassador, and is World Vision’s international spokesperson for their Knit for Kids charity initiative. A devoted grandmother, Debbie and Wayne live in Port Orchard, Washington, the town which inspired the Cedar Cove series.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,542 reviews
June 11, 2025
Coloring a Black Hole
Somewhere in Afghanistan, Paul perishes in combat, and with him, the US he once built with Jo — an US at a very tender age, with so much to offer, has been hit by the war and died prematurely☹️
And ... because War reaches everyone, a broken Jo is now facing one of two options:
Let herself bury in pain or reborn in a new self, because Life has multiple roads to walk...
In a positive approach to Loss, a theme that concerns all of us, The Inn at Rose Harbor is an inspiring read, showing that Loss is one of those dark holes that, when allowed, Life will manage to color! 👍🌟🌟🌟🌟👍
P.S.: For my Portuguese reading mates there’s an edition entitled A Estalagem de Rose Harbor
Somewhere in Afghanistan, Paul perishes in combat, and with him, the US he once built with Jo — an US at a very tender age, with so much to offer, has been hit by the war and died prematurely☹️
And ... because War reaches everyone, a broken Jo is now facing one of two options:
Let herself bury in pain or reborn in a new self, because Life has multiple roads to walk...
In a positive approach to Loss, a theme that concerns all of us, The Inn at Rose Harbor is an inspiring read, showing that Loss is one of those dark holes that, when allowed, Life will manage to color! 👍🌟🌟🌟🌟👍
P.S.: For my Portuguese reading mates there’s an edition entitled A Estalagem de Rose Harbor
November 11, 2012
Three and a half stars. This makes no apologies for what it is - a gentle story about love, loss and ability to move on or not after a tragedy. Sometimes as a reader I am not in the mood for anything heavy and challenging. I just want a book that will take me out of the world for a while. This one did, into the world of Cedar Cove and of Jo Marie who after the death of her husband starts a new life as owner of a bed and breakfast.
Josh and Abby, her first two guests, have problems of their own and neither of them really want to be in Cedar Cove, due to past experiences that have shaped and altered their lives, yet family circumstances and responsibilities have forced them their hand causing them to be there.
Yes, some of it can be a little too pat at times. It’s not what I might always choose to read but at the time a light read like this was just what I need and I enjoyed it.
Josh and Abby, her first two guests, have problems of their own and neither of them really want to be in Cedar Cove, due to past experiences that have shaped and altered their lives, yet family circumstances and responsibilities have forced them their hand causing them to be there.
Yes, some of it can be a little too pat at times. It’s not what I might always choose to read but at the time a light read like this was just what I need and I enjoyed it.
August 2, 2025
A Guerra sobra para Todos
Algures no Afeganistão, Paul perece em combate e com ele o Nós que partilhara com Jo — um Nós ainda jovem, com muito por descobrir e inventar fora, assim, atingido pela guerra e morrera precocemente!
E... porque a guerra sobra para todos, a uma Jo destroçada resta, agora, uma de duas opções:
Afundar-se num poço de dor ou reinventar-se sem Paul porque a vida tem múltiplas direcções...
Numa abordagem positiva da perda, um tema que nos toca e interessa a todos, A Estalagem de Rose Harbor é uma leitura inspiradora ao mostrar que a perda é um daqueles buracos negros que, se o consentirmos, a vida irá colorir! 💕🌟🌟🌟🌟💕
Algures no Afeganistão, Paul perece em combate e com ele o Nós que partilhara com Jo — um Nós ainda jovem, com muito por descobrir e inventar fora, assim, atingido pela guerra e morrera precocemente!
E... porque a guerra sobra para todos, a uma Jo destroçada resta, agora, uma de duas opções:
Afundar-se num poço de dor ou reinventar-se sem Paul porque a vida tem múltiplas direcções...
Numa abordagem positiva da perda, um tema que nos toca e interessa a todos, A Estalagem de Rose Harbor é uma leitura inspiradora ao mostrar que a perda é um daqueles buracos negros que, se o consentirmos, a vida irá colorir! 💕🌟🌟🌟🌟💕
October 9, 2016
Sometimes I want something light to read. This was a perfect read for one of those times. This is light and predictable and I really enjoyed it. I liked all the characters and felt like I really got to know them. I look forward to the next in this series. Thanks to my GR friend DeAnn for recommending this one.
May 5, 2022
A sweet and heartwarming book filled with likable characters that takes place in the charming town of Cedar Cove. I loved getting to know Jo Marie who moves to Cedar Cove to open up an inn she purchased after losing her husband. Her first two guests arrive and each is on a different journey. There are themes of healing, friendship, forgiveness, and new beginnings. I look forward to continuing the series.
October 19, 2018
Reseña completa: http://masromance.blogspot.com/2018/1...
1.5 pero como no hay media estrella, pues se queda con una
No voy a decir que esté mal escrito. Pero no lo veo para nada una novela romántica. No sé si sentimental o narrativa dramática.
A ver, es bastante corta y hay tres historias!!! Así que los personajes apenas los perfila. Realmente recoge las situaciones dramáticas de tres personas y dos de ellas encuentran el amor o parece que empiezan una relación... No sé, y la tercera, pues ahí se queda regentando el nuevo hostal con toque paranormal incluido
No me queda claro si las historias luego continuarán, pero si soy sincera, me da lo mismo. A ver puede ser una buena introducción pero a mí los dramas en romántica, lo justo
Ambiciosa y se queda en introductoria, en mi opinión
Si la vemos como novela de superación, no está mal, sobre todo la historia de Abbie... pero es que no da tiempo a desarrollar nada...
como digo no es una mala novela pero a mí no me ha gustado nada y me parece poco justo para otras lecturas darle más puntuación
1.5 pero como no hay media estrella, pues se queda con una
No voy a decir que esté mal escrito. Pero no lo veo para nada una novela romántica. No sé si sentimental o narrativa dramática.
A ver, es bastante corta y hay tres historias!!! Así que los personajes apenas los perfila. Realmente recoge las situaciones dramáticas de tres personas y dos de ellas encuentran el amor o parece que empiezan una relación... No sé, y la tercera, pues ahí se queda regentando el nuevo hostal con toque paranormal incluido
No me queda claro si las historias luego continuarán, pero si soy sincera, me da lo mismo. A ver puede ser una buena introducción pero a mí los dramas en romántica, lo justo
Ambiciosa y se queda en introductoria, en mi opinión
Si la vemos como novela de superación, no está mal, sobre todo la historia de Abbie... pero es que no da tiempo a desarrollar nada...
como digo no es una mala novela pero a mí no me ha gustado nada y me parece poco justo para otras lecturas darle más puntuación
September 19, 2022
This is the first in the Rose Harbor series, and this is a series that is a spin off for the Cedar Cove series. Debbie Macomber has been one of my favorite authors since 2007. In this book Jo Marie has to start over after her husband dies, so she buys the Inn at Rose Harbor. I loved the characters that was coming from the Cedar Cove series and Jo Marie/other new characters are also very good. I really love being back in Cedar Cove because I was so sad when the series ended.
May 14, 2022
The Inn at Rose Harbor is the first book in the Rose Harbor series written by Debbie Macomber. I thought this was going to be a sweet, light, fluffy read, but boy was I wrong, The Inn at Rose Harbor left me sobbing, it had feel good moments but it left a lump in my throat the whole time. This story was so touching but filled with times of healing, new beginnings, friendships, and forgiveness. I didn't want this story to end, but i'm excited to continue this series. I already know moving forward with this series I am going to be mentally unstable. This story deals with loss, grief, acceptance, and moving forward. I was hooked from the very first page, and never felt lost in this book. This story will be stuck in my heart for a long time to come. What's better than reading a physical book and having tears streaming down your face and hitting the pages?
"Oh my god, my dead best friend is talking to me from her grave, I think i'm going insane, I think I need help". - Abby Kincaid.
In The Inn at Rose Harbor we follow the journey of Jo Marie opening the bead-and-breakfast in Cedar Cove, Washington. Jo Marie met her husband Paul Rose at a Seattle Seahawks football game. Jo Marie knew that Paul was shipping out in six weeks because he was in the military. But Jo Marie didn't know she was going to lose her husband so soon. Paul was killed in a helicopter crash serving his country in Afghanistan. Jo Marie Rose first arrives in Cedar Cove seeking a sense of peace and a fresh start. Coping with the death of her husband Paul Rose, the young war widow purchases a local bed-and-breakfast- the newly Rose Harbor Inn. Jo Marie decided to change the name of the inn to honor her late husband. From the minute she sees the Rose Harbor Inn, Jo Marie knows that this is the place that will help her find the peace she craves. And if the inn can comfort her, surely it can offer the same refuge to her first two guests, Abby Kincaid and Josh Weaver. Each one of Jo Marie's guests are on a different journey.
Josh Weaver has come home to care for his ailing step father, Richard. The two have never seen eye to eye. Josh's father walked out when he was so young. Josh thought his mother, Teresa was so happy when she met Richard. Richard had another son, Dylan, Josh and Dylan clicked so well. When Josh was a teenager in high school Richard kicked him out of the house because he thought Josh stole money from him, when it really wasn't Josh who stole it. Josh has little hope that he and Richard can reconcile their differences. But a long lost acquaintance from Josh's high school days proves to him that forgiveness is never out of reach and that love can bloom even where it's least expected. Josh learns that Michelle has been looking out for his step father.
Josh lost his mother to cancer, and lost his step brother Dylan to an accident. Josh always thought that Dylan was the favored child. Josh always thought his step brother was so perfect but when Michelle tells her story Josh is completely shocked. Michelle had a thing for Dylan in their high school days, she made a deal with Dylan that if she wrote his essay for him, Dylan was to take Michelle to prom, but Dylan completely ghosted her. Richard is slowly dying, he doesn't want to die at the hospital or in hospice, he wants to die at home where his wife died. Josh has come back home to Cedar Cove to get on good terms before Richard passed. Together Josh and Michelle work as a pair to care for Richard.
Abby Kincaid has returned to Cedar Cove to attend her brother Roger's wedding. Back for the first time in twenty years, Abby almost wishes she hadn't come, the picturesque town harboring painful memories. One night Abby and her best friend, Angela returned home from college to celebrate Christmas with their families. Abby and Angela were driving home on a dark snowy night when Abby was driving the car and hit a patch of black ice and lost control of her car. Abby and Angela were singing Christmas songs when they realized what happened. Angela was declared dead at the scene. Abby left Cedar Cove for Florida because she couldn't bear the pain and grief of losing her best friend.
When Abby returns to Cedar Cove for the first time she goes to the grave of her best friend. Angela's parents were like second parents to Abby but after the crash the cut Abby out of their lives because she survived and Angela didn't. At Angela's grave Abby thought her best friend was talking to her, Abby wants to reconnect with Angela's parents, so Abby thought Angela told her to go visit her parents. While Abby reconnects with family and old friends, she realizes that she can move on only if she truly allows herself to let go. I highly recommend this amazing, heart felt touching story to anyone!!
RUN TO THIS BOOK PLEASE!!! YOU WON'T REGRET IT, I PROMISE!!!!
"Oh my god, my dead best friend is talking to me from her grave, I think i'm going insane, I think I need help". - Abby Kincaid.
In The Inn at Rose Harbor we follow the journey of Jo Marie opening the bead-and-breakfast in Cedar Cove, Washington. Jo Marie met her husband Paul Rose at a Seattle Seahawks football game. Jo Marie knew that Paul was shipping out in six weeks because he was in the military. But Jo Marie didn't know she was going to lose her husband so soon. Paul was killed in a helicopter crash serving his country in Afghanistan. Jo Marie Rose first arrives in Cedar Cove seeking a sense of peace and a fresh start. Coping with the death of her husband Paul Rose, the young war widow purchases a local bed-and-breakfast- the newly Rose Harbor Inn. Jo Marie decided to change the name of the inn to honor her late husband. From the minute she sees the Rose Harbor Inn, Jo Marie knows that this is the place that will help her find the peace she craves. And if the inn can comfort her, surely it can offer the same refuge to her first two guests, Abby Kincaid and Josh Weaver. Each one of Jo Marie's guests are on a different journey.
Josh Weaver has come home to care for his ailing step father, Richard. The two have never seen eye to eye. Josh's father walked out when he was so young. Josh thought his mother, Teresa was so happy when she met Richard. Richard had another son, Dylan, Josh and Dylan clicked so well. When Josh was a teenager in high school Richard kicked him out of the house because he thought Josh stole money from him, when it really wasn't Josh who stole it. Josh has little hope that he and Richard can reconcile their differences. But a long lost acquaintance from Josh's high school days proves to him that forgiveness is never out of reach and that love can bloom even where it's least expected. Josh learns that Michelle has been looking out for his step father.
Josh lost his mother to cancer, and lost his step brother Dylan to an accident. Josh always thought that Dylan was the favored child. Josh always thought his step brother was so perfect but when Michelle tells her story Josh is completely shocked. Michelle had a thing for Dylan in their high school days, she made a deal with Dylan that if she wrote his essay for him, Dylan was to take Michelle to prom, but Dylan completely ghosted her. Richard is slowly dying, he doesn't want to die at the hospital or in hospice, he wants to die at home where his wife died. Josh has come back home to Cedar Cove to get on good terms before Richard passed. Together Josh and Michelle work as a pair to care for Richard.
Abby Kincaid has returned to Cedar Cove to attend her brother Roger's wedding. Back for the first time in twenty years, Abby almost wishes she hadn't come, the picturesque town harboring painful memories. One night Abby and her best friend, Angela returned home from college to celebrate Christmas with their families. Abby and Angela were driving home on a dark snowy night when Abby was driving the car and hit a patch of black ice and lost control of her car. Abby and Angela were singing Christmas songs when they realized what happened. Angela was declared dead at the scene. Abby left Cedar Cove for Florida because she couldn't bear the pain and grief of losing her best friend.
When Abby returns to Cedar Cove for the first time she goes to the grave of her best friend. Angela's parents were like second parents to Abby but after the crash the cut Abby out of their lives because she survived and Angela didn't. At Angela's grave Abby thought her best friend was talking to her, Abby wants to reconnect with Angela's parents, so Abby thought Angela told her to go visit her parents. While Abby reconnects with family and old friends, she realizes that she can move on only if she truly allows herself to let go. I highly recommend this amazing, heart felt touching story to anyone!!
RUN TO THIS BOOK PLEASE!!! YOU WON'T REGRET IT, I PROMISE!!!!
January 4, 2021
This is my second Debbie Macomber book and I felt the same about both after reading them. Meh. The books aren't bad, but I can't say enjoyed them either.
The bad thing is that I can't say anything bad about them. Macomber is a good writer, but I think this is a case of the writer and reader are not a good fit. Basically, the story was not enjoyable for me. It was mediocre.
Macomber writes well so I'm glad she has a fan base.
The bad thing is that I can't say anything bad about them. Macomber is a good writer, but I think this is a case of the writer and reader are not a good fit. Basically, the story was not enjoyable for me. It was mediocre.
Macomber writes well so I'm glad she has a fan base.
August 28, 2025
A very beautiful, tender and warm story that follows several characters and their pain due to loss, loneliness, internal struggle with themselves, but also their healing and their joy at being offered a second chance to be what they once were - happy, smiling, friendly persons... My recommendation if you like sweet and warm stories.
July 10, 2012
I was so excited to see a new series by Macomber; she is one of my favorite authors. This first book in her new series was a breath of fresh air during this hot humid summer.
The series is set in Cedar Cove but the characters are new. Jo Marie Rose has moved there upon the death of her husband after purchasing a Bed & Breakfast. Story lines were developed around two guests that checked into the B&B. They were heartwarming stories of families and relationships. I especially liked that the ending made it clear that this is a series and I can look forward to more books in the series.
The series is set in Cedar Cove but the characters are new. Jo Marie Rose has moved there upon the death of her husband after purchasing a Bed & Breakfast. Story lines were developed around two guests that checked into the B&B. They were heartwarming stories of families and relationships. I especially liked that the ending made it clear that this is a series and I can look forward to more books in the series.
December 19, 2022
The Inn at Rose Harbour by Debbie Macomber
⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was a quick fun easy read and a little predictable. Not one of Debbie Macomber’s best books but still enjoyable.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
This was a quick fun easy read and a little predictable. Not one of Debbie Macomber’s best books but still enjoyable.
July 26, 2014
I am a great Debbie Macomber fan, and I knew that I would love "The Inn at Rose Harbor"--I just didn't know how much I would love it! I was immediately and deeply affected by the character of Jo Marie Rose, and the terrible loss of her husband so soon after her marriage. Adding extra poignancy to the story was the tragic real-life death of a young, newly-married soldier in my home community. He was also killed while on active duty. I had just seen his picture, and then the follow-up story on his memorial service. I cried for the immeasurable loss of this handsome, well-loved young man. Debbie captured the feeling perfectly in "The Inn at Rose Harbor". Jo Marie's grief, her struggle to accept the loss of her husband and cope with the unexpectedly large bequest of his life insurance policy all combine to set the framework for the series. Jo Marie's courage in going forward and making the life-changing decision to become a business owner is inspiring. Instead of turning inward to become lost in her pain, she chooses a business which will necessitate daily positive contact with others. I must say that as much as I have enjoyed Debbie's previous works, there is an added depth and spirit to this book. Debbie is amazing, and just keeps getting better! In this book, she takes a look back, but she definitely moves forward with new characters and story lines that will keep us happily read. I have long thought of owning my own B&B, only mine would be nestled in the beautiful setting of my own little vineyard. However, I would love to visit Jo Marie Rose, and stay a while at "The Inn at Rose Harbor". The hostess, the setting, and the guests are most inviting and intriguing. I look forward to return visits.
Review Copy Gratis Amazon Vine
Review Copy Gratis Amazon Vine
September 8, 2013
Well, gosh. Maybe I've outgrown Macomber. Or maybe I just glutted myself too much in past years and now am at that familiarity brings...not contempt, exactly, but the heart just no longer thrills. This has happened to me with other authors after a bit of directed literary gluttony; I love them, I gobble all the books I can find, and then, finally, it's "oh no, not another bite of delicious crumbly cookies with a latte on the side".
For Macomber's fans, this is the standard territory, and obviously the first in a new series. And I did read the whole thing, which intertwines three stories of loss and resolution, sprinkled with death bed reconciliation, voices from beyond the grave, kind neighbors, hot repair dude, fluffy doggie, and lots of coffee, tea, and yummies. (plus, of course, a knitting pattern at the back).
But I'm getting grumpy. It's like when you notice that your shining own true love snores, or chews loudly. The bloom is off the literary obsession here. So I find myself wondering who exactly cleans the rooms at the cute B&B, and how finances are managed, and other niggling, petty, distracting, daily prosaic stuff.
For books like this to work you have to suspend disbelief and fall into the cotton candy world. If you can do that it is lovely.
For Macomber's fans, this is the standard territory, and obviously the first in a new series. And I did read the whole thing, which intertwines three stories of loss and resolution, sprinkled with death bed reconciliation, voices from beyond the grave, kind neighbors, hot repair dude, fluffy doggie, and lots of coffee, tea, and yummies. (plus, of course, a knitting pattern at the back).
But I'm getting grumpy. It's like when you notice that your shining own true love snores, or chews loudly. The bloom is off the literary obsession here. So I find myself wondering who exactly cleans the rooms at the cute B&B, and how finances are managed, and other niggling, petty, distracting, daily prosaic stuff.
For books like this to work you have to suspend disbelief and fall into the cotton candy world. If you can do that it is lovely.
February 6, 2017
Writing a story combining three different plots is a challenge. I thought The Inn at Rose Harbor fell into the usual trap of this kind of plot: there is great potential, too much to tell and not enough space for it all; therefore we get a superficial at best narrative. Some people might like this kind of book, but it's not my kind of fiction. However, I should point out that it's well written and all three stories offer a superficial character development and a fair emotional setting.
June 6, 2013
This is a typical Debbie Macomber book - a gentle little story about family dynamics that is easy to read and has a happy ending. Sometimes I'm in the mood for that kind of a book, and Debbie Macomber usually satisfies. This book, however, left me feeling a little disgruntled. I understand the desire to bring back characters from her Cedar Cove stories; I've read some of those books, and wouldn't mind an update on what the characters are doing now. But so many of them made appearances in slightly awkward ways, and I found it hard to believe that friendships would develop so quickly between those old Cedar Cove friends and a new-to-town stranger. But most importantly, the two guests experience dramatic changes in their viewpoints on life over a single long weekend, and I found the timeframe completely unrealistic. Since the point of this new series is to see how guests change during short stays at a bed and breakfast, I would expect that all future books in this series would have the same problem. It just doesn't work for me.
September 7, 2012
Those of you who pay attention know that I almost NEVER give 5 stars to anything. A book has to really reach out and grab me to get more than 3.... so..... This book really hit home with me, and perhaps my feelings about it are more emotionally tied than anything else, but for whatever reason....
The book deals with loss and grief, with acceptance, with moving forward. Ms. Macomber lost her son not too long ago, and one of my best and oldest friends lost her son over the summer. So this tied in with Abby's storyline of trying to move past the guilt of being behind the wheel of the car when her best friend was killed in an accident.
My stepfather and I had a troubled relationship at times, and there were SO many things of my moms that I would have so much liked to have had. Things that had no meaning to anyone else probably. She had a tiny diamond cross necklace that she always wore that I wanted SO badly. My stepfather had it cremated along with her. Sound familiar?
And then there were the ghosts that spoke to both Abby and Jo Marie. While I've never actually heard voices, when I married my husband I very clearly could feel a hand on my shoulder, and I smelled Chanel No. 5 which was my mom's signature perfume. She was there with me.
So.... the book hit home for me on a lot of very personal levels, hence the 5 star rating, but it really is a lovely book, it's great to see some of the beloved characters from the Cedar Cove series, and I am looking forward to the next in the series.
The book deals with loss and grief, with acceptance, with moving forward. Ms. Macomber lost her son not too long ago, and one of my best and oldest friends lost her son over the summer. So this tied in with Abby's storyline of trying to move past the guilt of being behind the wheel of the car when her best friend was killed in an accident.
My stepfather and I had a troubled relationship at times, and there were SO many things of my moms that I would have so much liked to have had. Things that had no meaning to anyone else probably. She had a tiny diamond cross necklace that she always wore that I wanted SO badly. My stepfather had it cremated along with her. Sound familiar?
And then there were the ghosts that spoke to both Abby and Jo Marie. While I've never actually heard voices, when I married my husband I very clearly could feel a hand on my shoulder, and I smelled Chanel No. 5 which was my mom's signature perfume. She was there with me.
So.... the book hit home for me on a lot of very personal levels, hence the 5 star rating, but it really is a lovely book, it's great to see some of the beloved characters from the Cedar Cove series, and I am looking forward to the next in the series.
July 25, 2016
Uma história docinha que nos fala de novos recomeços e de avançarmos em frente, mesmo quando a vida é madrasta. Pelo final claro que vai ter seguimento e eu vou tentar ler quando quiser ler um livro leve e que me deixe bem disposta e a pensar que existem finais felizes
November 21, 2016
This was actually a buddy read with a friend of mine. We both adored the Cedar Cove books and we have been less than thrilled with the newest offerings by Macomber. When she found out the Rose Harbor books take place in Cedar Cove we were pretty excited. Though I was cautious enough to borrow this thing from the library because I have been burned too many times lately by reading her latest works.
My friends summary of this book was this:
"I don't understand why Macomber revisited Cedar Cove if she was going to take all of the charm out of the book. I loved this series until the last couple of books since it started to read like a recipe after a while. You take one man, one woman, have them either fall in love, or have marriage relationship problems, have another couple included to set up next book in series, have reappearances by favorites in the series, have people go and have food at the Pancake House, and then the end. I love romance books and I have all of the Cedar Cove books in paperback. I was not as disappointed as you were with the end of the series, but did feel letdown a little bit. I was so happy to run out and buy this one, I wish I had just gotten it from the library or something.
I think this book was setup so oddly. I didn't realize until we spoke about it, but the first person and switch to two other characters in the third person was what kept messing me up while reading. Also I felt like Jo Marie was barely in this story, though it should have been her story. A widowed woman moving to Cedar Cove and having to start over again was enough for me to read about. I don't get why she divided this book into three separate stories, though like you said, she always had multiple plots going on in the Cedar Cove books. Oh and just like you I really hated Josh's storyline. And the whole ghosts or people from beyond influencing things just didn't work. I started to get really annoyed even when we saw people we loved like Olivia and Grace. I think I will read book #2, but if that one is set-up like this, going to skip the rest of the series."
I should just say see above, because most of my friend's points were mine as well. Cedar Cove was dumped unceremoniously by Macomber. It was not until someone commented on my review on Amazon for the last book that I even found out that there would be no more books. I was bummed out and really disappointed by it since the book did not really hang together well. Revisiting Cedar Cove seemed like a good idea to me since I have not been enamored with Macomber's stand alones or other series books. And even ones that have improved like Blossom Street series, often have a couple of misses.
This book looks at three people who come to Cedar Cove for different reasons. Jo Marie, Josh, and Abby. Except for Jo Marie, Josh and Abby both used to live in Cedar Cove and then moved away due to different circumstances.
Jo Marie relocates from Seattle after the death of her husband in the military. Jo Marie quits her job at a bank to run a B & B. You don't really get a good idea of why Jo Marie does this besides needing to move on. You only get tidbits here and there that Jo Marie even knows and likes to bake and cook. I think I was confused throughout regarding Jo Marie's understanding of how to run her business since one character visits Jo Marie (Peggy Beldon from Cedar Cove, 44 Cranberry Point) and mentions things she should be doing like getting a food handling license. That seemed pretty important to me and I had to wonder then how the heck Jo Marie was allowed to cook for her guest if she did not have a license to do so.
Josh is called home to take care of his dying stepfather by his former neighbor and classmate Michelle. Josh does construction and tends to move all over, but his base is in California. We find out Josh has not been back in Cedar Cove since the accidental death of his stepbrother. He and his stepfather have a lot of animosity between them and I felt for Josh through this whole book. I thought he really got the short end of the stick through this book because Josh was dealing with being verbally abused and thrown out of his home and not allowed to take a thing with him when he was a teenager after his mom died. Michelle and her pointless platitudes started to work on my nerves. Forgiving someone is one thing, but Michelle seemed to want Josh to get over everything his stepfather did. And the whitewashing of the character after the fact was meh inducing to me.
Abby has not been home since a tragedy occurred when she was in college. It takes forever to even find out what is going on with Abby or what happened. I liked this character the best while reading. Though I will say again that Macomber rushing the ending with her and having once again an implausible forgiveness moment just didn't work.
The secondary characters development was hit or miss. I didn't care for Michelle at all. And her hero worship of Josh or her need to try to have him forgive his stepfather was just aggravating. She is a social worker so I would assume the character had seen a lot of issues here and there. But having her as love interest and sounding board to Josh didn't work. I mean there was one point where Josh's stepfather demand she choose who she is going to be friends with him or Josh.
Abby's family was done very well and I would have enjoyed more of the story if we stayed with them.
Jo Marie felt like a blank slate. We hear about her family and friends in an abstract way. Most of the book was talking about her dead husband and her bristling (her words) anytime she comes into contact with a handyman she hires to do work at the inn. Through Jo Marie we are reintroduced into old characters such as Olivia and Grace. But they all felt so empty in this series. Getting such a shallow look at them bugged me.
The writing did not work and that was because we went from first person to third person to third person. I don't get why Macomber did this and it was jarring to read each and every time. If you are going to have the book set up with three people than have them all tell the story in the same tense.
The flow did not work, but honestly I think that's because Macomber was reaching for things to talk about in this one. If she had stayed focused on one story it probably would have worked better.
The setting of Cedar Cove feels different in this one. Macomber gets pretty repetitive describing the town layout, the cove, the Navy that is nearby, etc. I always had the feeling it was much bigger. But reading it in this different light it feels teeny tiny to me.
The ending was kind of a mess. This book was more religious than I am used to in Macomber books. I assume the whole storyline involving Jo Marie and her ex is going to play out in the other books so I think I am just going to skip it. Goodbye for good Cedar Cove.
My friends summary of this book was this:
"I don't understand why Macomber revisited Cedar Cove if she was going to take all of the charm out of the book. I loved this series until the last couple of books since it started to read like a recipe after a while. You take one man, one woman, have them either fall in love, or have marriage relationship problems, have another couple included to set up next book in series, have reappearances by favorites in the series, have people go and have food at the Pancake House, and then the end. I love romance books and I have all of the Cedar Cove books in paperback. I was not as disappointed as you were with the end of the series, but did feel letdown a little bit. I was so happy to run out and buy this one, I wish I had just gotten it from the library or something.
I think this book was setup so oddly. I didn't realize until we spoke about it, but the first person and switch to two other characters in the third person was what kept messing me up while reading. Also I felt like Jo Marie was barely in this story, though it should have been her story. A widowed woman moving to Cedar Cove and having to start over again was enough for me to read about. I don't get why she divided this book into three separate stories, though like you said, she always had multiple plots going on in the Cedar Cove books. Oh and just like you I really hated Josh's storyline. And the whole ghosts or people from beyond influencing things just didn't work. I started to get really annoyed even when we saw people we loved like Olivia and Grace. I think I will read book #2, but if that one is set-up like this, going to skip the rest of the series."
I should just say see above, because most of my friend's points were mine as well. Cedar Cove was dumped unceremoniously by Macomber. It was not until someone commented on my review on Amazon for the last book that I even found out that there would be no more books. I was bummed out and really disappointed by it since the book did not really hang together well. Revisiting Cedar Cove seemed like a good idea to me since I have not been enamored with Macomber's stand alones or other series books. And even ones that have improved like Blossom Street series, often have a couple of misses.
This book looks at three people who come to Cedar Cove for different reasons. Jo Marie, Josh, and Abby. Except for Jo Marie, Josh and Abby both used to live in Cedar Cove and then moved away due to different circumstances.
Jo Marie relocates from Seattle after the death of her husband in the military. Jo Marie quits her job at a bank to run a B & B. You don't really get a good idea of why Jo Marie does this besides needing to move on. You only get tidbits here and there that Jo Marie even knows and likes to bake and cook. I think I was confused throughout regarding Jo Marie's understanding of how to run her business since one character visits Jo Marie (Peggy Beldon from Cedar Cove, 44 Cranberry Point) and mentions things she should be doing like getting a food handling license. That seemed pretty important to me and I had to wonder then how the heck Jo Marie was allowed to cook for her guest if she did not have a license to do so.
Josh is called home to take care of his dying stepfather by his former neighbor and classmate Michelle. Josh does construction and tends to move all over, but his base is in California. We find out Josh has not been back in Cedar Cove since the accidental death of his stepbrother. He and his stepfather have a lot of animosity between them and I felt for Josh through this whole book. I thought he really got the short end of the stick through this book because Josh was dealing with being verbally abused and thrown out of his home and not allowed to take a thing with him when he was a teenager after his mom died. Michelle and her pointless platitudes started to work on my nerves. Forgiving someone is one thing, but Michelle seemed to want Josh to get over everything his stepfather did. And the whitewashing of the character after the fact was meh inducing to me.
Abby has not been home since a tragedy occurred when she was in college. It takes forever to even find out what is going on with Abby or what happened. I liked this character the best while reading. Though I will say again that Macomber rushing the ending with her and having once again an implausible forgiveness moment just didn't work.
The secondary characters development was hit or miss. I didn't care for Michelle at all. And her hero worship of Josh or her need to try to have him forgive his stepfather was just aggravating. She is a social worker so I would assume the character had seen a lot of issues here and there. But having her as love interest and sounding board to Josh didn't work. I mean there was one point where Josh's stepfather demand she choose who she is going to be friends with him or Josh.
Abby's family was done very well and I would have enjoyed more of the story if we stayed with them.
Jo Marie felt like a blank slate. We hear about her family and friends in an abstract way. Most of the book was talking about her dead husband and her bristling (her words) anytime she comes into contact with a handyman she hires to do work at the inn. Through Jo Marie we are reintroduced into old characters such as Olivia and Grace. But they all felt so empty in this series. Getting such a shallow look at them bugged me.
The writing did not work and that was because we went from first person to third person to third person. I don't get why Macomber did this and it was jarring to read each and every time. If you are going to have the book set up with three people than have them all tell the story in the same tense.
The flow did not work, but honestly I think that's because Macomber was reaching for things to talk about in this one. If she had stayed focused on one story it probably would have worked better.
The setting of Cedar Cove feels different in this one. Macomber gets pretty repetitive describing the town layout, the cove, the Navy that is nearby, etc. I always had the feeling it was much bigger. But reading it in this different light it feels teeny tiny to me.
The ending was kind of a mess. This book was more religious than I am used to in Macomber books. I assume the whole storyline involving Jo Marie and her ex is going to play out in the other books so I think I am just going to skip it. Goodbye for good Cedar Cove.
Read
October 20, 2018#RitaMacomber #RetoRita2 Este libro, me mató y remató y eso que lo dejé plantado en el 40% lo peor es que me dejó sin ganas de leer, NADA de NADA.
Siento decir que nunca-más-never-never-never
Siento decir que nunca-más-never-never-never
October 10, 2018
This was the first book I’ve ever read by Debbie Macomber. She was recommended to me, saying I would like her style and I absolutely did!
Debbie’s style of writing is real-life, relatable, and very similar to a Nicholas Sparks type of story.
The Inn at Rose Harbor is book one of the series and I look forward to reading more of this series.
The characters in this story were all relatable and so real to me. I felt the emotions and struggles of each one, and I love that about characters, when you’re right there with them in life and you can understand them.
The Inn at Rose Harbor told the story of Jo Marie, a woman who had just purchased a bed and breakfast in Cedar Cove, a way to start life over after the passing of her husband. Her first two guests, Josh and Abby, return to Cedar Cove, a place from their past, with reluctant hearts and sad stories. As the book progresses, all three characters find themselves reliving past memories, mourning, and experiencing a wash of relief and peace. It was a lovely read, relaxing, and joyful. Definitely looking forward to reading more of Debbie’s work.
Debbie’s style of writing is real-life, relatable, and very similar to a Nicholas Sparks type of story.
The Inn at Rose Harbor is book one of the series and I look forward to reading more of this series.
The characters in this story were all relatable and so real to me. I felt the emotions and struggles of each one, and I love that about characters, when you’re right there with them in life and you can understand them.
The Inn at Rose Harbor told the story of Jo Marie, a woman who had just purchased a bed and breakfast in Cedar Cove, a way to start life over after the passing of her husband. Her first two guests, Josh and Abby, return to Cedar Cove, a place from their past, with reluctant hearts and sad stories. As the book progresses, all three characters find themselves reliving past memories, mourning, and experiencing a wash of relief and peace. It was a lovely read, relaxing, and joyful. Definitely looking forward to reading more of Debbie’s work.
February 26, 2017
Warm cozy read that I fell in love with right away, I haven't read this author before and now asking myself what took me so long? I felt the characters were so real and felt I was living through the struggles, I have the second book and ready to start right away!
January 3, 2022
Este livro não me encantou, apesar de trazer consigo uma mensagem de esperança. Pretende mostrar que o passado não está fechado, definitivamente; podemos recompor (e recompor-nos) o que ficou em aberto e completar o que ficou por dizer. Conseguiremos, assim, cicatrizar as feridas. É um livro sobre a possibilidade da redenção, sobre novos caminhos e novas oportunidades.
A ideia é bonita, interessante e verdadeira (no meu entender), mas não gostei muito do modo como foi "executada". A história tem demasiados lugares comuns e o desenrolar da ação é um conjunto de "facilitismos" que dificilmente encontra paralelo na realidade. É uma história doce, que está bem escrita, mas que, no meu entender, tem demasiado açúcar.
A ideia é bonita, interessante e verdadeira (no meu entender), mas não gostei muito do modo como foi "executada". A história tem demasiados lugares comuns e o desenrolar da ação é um conjunto de "facilitismos" que dificilmente encontra paralelo na realidade. É uma história doce, que está bem escrita, mas que, no meu entender, tem demasiado açúcar.
September 16, 2012
Super easy read and very much a feel good kind of book. I accidentally read this one, as the cover resembled one on my TBR shelf. I decided to keep going with it once I realized my error and had an enjoyable afternoon wrapped in the story.
The story takes place in Cedar Cove, Washington where JoMarie Rose has just purchased a B&B. Still grieving for her husband who was killed in Afganistan, she is ready for the next challenge in her life. The story revolves around her settling in (and I anticipate will continue into multiple books with her), as well as the storylines of her guests.
The guests include Abby, who is filled with grief over being the driver in a car accident that took her best friend 15 years ago, and Josh, who comes at the end of his ailing stepfather who has always been harsh with him. Both stories are engaging as both of them come to face the issue that is truly in play in their lives.
Not a super deep read, but perfect for that break between heavy content books. Kind of a nice one to stumble upon.
The story takes place in Cedar Cove, Washington where JoMarie Rose has just purchased a B&B. Still grieving for her husband who was killed in Afganistan, she is ready for the next challenge in her life. The story revolves around her settling in (and I anticipate will continue into multiple books with her), as well as the storylines of her guests.
The guests include Abby, who is filled with grief over being the driver in a car accident that took her best friend 15 years ago, and Josh, who comes at the end of his ailing stepfather who has always been harsh with him. Both stories are engaging as both of them come to face the issue that is truly in play in their lives.
Not a super deep read, but perfect for that break between heavy content books. Kind of a nice one to stumble upon.
September 11, 2012
I have read and enjoyed many of Debbie Macomber's books, but this book was not a favorite of mine. It appears I am about the only person who didn't care for this book..There were some weird parts I didn't care for at all. (They almost bordered on paranormal) And anyone who follows my reading genres knows I hate paranormal. Maybe I have read to many of her many books made into sequels or series. Knowing that this is the first of a series, I was disappointed. I'm beginning to enjoy much more, books that are written with a beginning and an ending, than I can move on to something different. I never did like soap opera, and I'm beginning to feel like all these series books are becoming like soap operas. I prefer a book with a good storyline and a satisfying ending. Which I didn't feel this book had a very satisfying ending, but then again it is the first book in a series, so I'm sure there will be many more books to follow...
Will I be reading anymore of this series, I think not.
Will I be reading anymore of this series, I think not.
May 20, 2017
I have always enjoyed reading Debbie Macomber especially the Cedar Cove series and as most people who read Deb, I hated to see the series end. The Inn At Rose Harbor brought some of the Cedar Cove characters back and it was nice to see them again. This was a touching and lovely book full of healing and looking forward. I recommend reading this book and look forward to reading the series.
October 17, 2018
2/5
y creo que le doy demasiado. Me han interesado de poco a nada las tres historias que me cuenta, me han parecido de lo más superficiales y anodinas. De novela romántica para mi no tiene nada.
Me interesaba más que nada la historia de la dueña del hostal con Mark pero en este libro sólo la esboza muy escasamente, con lo que me tengo que fustigar y leerme el segundo de la serie para ver si pasa algo o es tan poco interesante como este.
y creo que le doy demasiado. Me han interesado de poco a nada las tres historias que me cuenta, me han parecido de lo más superficiales y anodinas. De novela romántica para mi no tiene nada.
Me interesaba más que nada la historia de la dueña del hostal con Mark pero en este libro sólo la esboza muy escasamente, con lo que me tengo que fustigar y leerme el segundo de la serie para ver si pasa algo o es tan poco interesante como este.
May 21, 2017
opterećeno nepitrebnim misticizmom
September 25, 2013
Carinhoso é como posso definir este livro. Todo ele é ternurento, todo ele cura ao longo das suas poucas páginas os corações, tanto das personagens fictícias como das pessoas reais que nele pegam.
Um acontecimento terrível que muda a vida de Jo Marie Rose para sempre e, quem diria que, ao mudá-la, Jo, curando-se a si própria ainda vai curar outras duas pessoas. . .
Um romance que é claramente para o público feminino, consegue fazer o que se espera. Colocar as leitoras a suspirar.
Adorei a forma como as histórias de ambos os personagens, quer marculino, quer feminino se desenrolam e desabrocham. Houve alturas em que fiquei a pensar que não iriam ter um desfecho que gostasse mas depois. . .
Este é um livro de 4,5* estrelinhas na verdade. É quase um favorito, não leva as minhas 5* porque, para mim, e é mesmo, opinião pessoal, PARA MIM, o fim devia ser de outra maneira. . . Estava à espera de outra coisa tendo em conta todo o desenrolar da história e das pessoas que nela entram.
É outro livro em que adoro tanto as personagens principais como as secundárias.
Há um momento super emotivo para mim, quando a personagem feminina se quer reconciliar com o seu passado. . .
Um livro que recomendo dentro do género, para quem gosta.
Ultimamente tem-me apetecido ler este tipo de livros e sem dúvida que este foi uma excelente aposta.
Um acontecimento terrível que muda a vida de Jo Marie Rose para sempre e, quem diria que, ao mudá-la, Jo, curando-se a si própria ainda vai curar outras duas pessoas. . .
Um romance que é claramente para o público feminino, consegue fazer o que se espera. Colocar as leitoras a suspirar.
Adorei a forma como as histórias de ambos os personagens, quer marculino, quer feminino se desenrolam e desabrocham. Houve alturas em que fiquei a pensar que não iriam ter um desfecho que gostasse mas depois. . .
Este é um livro de 4,5* estrelinhas na verdade. É quase um favorito, não leva as minhas 5* porque, para mim, e é mesmo, opinião pessoal, PARA MIM, o fim devia ser de outra maneira. . . Estava à espera de outra coisa tendo em conta todo o desenrolar da história e das pessoas que nela entram.
É outro livro em que adoro tanto as personagens principais como as secundárias.
Há um momento super emotivo para mim, quando a personagem feminina se quer reconciliar com o seu passado. . .
Um livro que recomendo dentro do género, para quem gosta.
Ultimamente tem-me apetecido ler este tipo de livros e sem dúvida que este foi uma excelente aposta.
May 31, 2012
The Inn at Rose Harbor by Debbie Macomber
Love this book just for the knitting mentioned and how I can totally relate to having more than 3 projects going at one time.
Jo Marie had relocated to run the existing B&B after her husband Paul passes away in the war.
The book follows her life and interactions with other local people and protectors.
Josh Weaver is a guest at the inn and is in town for just a few short days to reclaim things his step dad has kept at the family house. He is on his deathbed and a nearby neighbor has watched out for him for months.
He just wants his letterman jacket and his mom's bible.
Abby Kincaid is back in town after leaving when her girlfriend dies in a car crash that she was the driver. Her brother is getting married and her parents and aunts and uncles will also be at the wedding. She has a few chores, left undone to complete.
Seems as if Jo Marie will return for more guests. It's a house that leaves one in peace, all that cross its door.
Look visiting again with just a few locals-a little at a time so as not to be become confused. It's at a nice easy pace but moves along.
Comes with extra things at the end of the book.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 2,542 reviews