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Holiday Harbor #1
Rocky Coast Romance
INSPIRATIONAL ROMANCE
Book 1-Holiday Harbor: Where love is just around the bend...
Journalist Bree Farrell heads to the village of Holiday Harbor to salvage her career. And walks straight into the arms of handsome young mayor Cooper Landry. Cooper's fighting to keep his sleepy Maine community from the clutches of big-city developers. And Bree knows it's a major scoop. But the longer she's in town, the more she's won over by the quirky townsfolk-and the charming Cooper. Will Bree ever follow her heart instead of a story and make Holiday Harbor her permanent byline?
Book 1-Holiday Harbor: Where love is just around the bend...
Journalist Bree Farrell heads to the village of Holiday Harbor to salvage her career. And walks straight into the arms of handsome young mayor Cooper Landry. Cooper's fighting to keep his sleepy Maine community from the clutches of big-city developers. And Bree knows it's a major scoop. But the longer she's in town, the more she's won over by the quirky townsfolk-and the charming Cooper. Will Bree ever follow her heart instead of a story and make Holiday Harbor her permanent byline?
288 pages, Mass Market Paperback
First published January 1, 2013
9 people are currently reading
370 people want to read
About the author
Mia Ross
40 books110 followersMia Ross loves great stories. She enjoys reading about fascinating people, long-ago times, and exotic places. But only for a little while, because her reality is pretty sweet. Married to her college sweetheart, she's the proud mom of two amazing kids whose schedules keep her hopping. Busy as she is, she can't imagine trading her life for anyone else's--and she has a pretty good imagination.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews
um-yeah
October 3, 2014Won Rocky Coast Romance from Goodreads First Reads. Did not get the book yet, but when I do, I will get to reading it soon. (:
Want to read
June 18, 2013Won this book a couple of days ago on goodreads.com. Can't wait to start reading.
July 11, 2013
I received this book through the Goodread's Member Giveaway. I would like to thank the author and publisher for sending me the book to review.
First of all, I would like to say that I have enjoyed many of the Love Inspired books. They always prove to be light, quick reading, without being plot-less or boring. They are nice to keep in the car for a quick chapter while waiting for the kids, or in your bag for a nice lunchtime getaway. I appreciate the fact that these books provide that Happily Ever After without all the TMI that we all can just use our imaginations for.
I really enjoyed the way author Mia Ross described the town of Holiday Harbor. I could practically smell the salty air, and hear the call of the sea gulls. What a lovely place she has created. I would love to live there!!
I also have to say that I really enjoyed the cover of this book as well. What a beautiful scene with the lighthouse perched on the rocky shore, and the colors were soft and soothing! I found myself looking at it again and again. I know it sounds weird to go on about a book cover, but I can honestly say that a book with a nice cover will have me reaching for that certain book way before the plain covered one next to it.
This whole story was just a joy to read. I like the author's writing style, as well as the whole "feel" of the book.
I won't go into all the details of the story as you can find that on the back cover, or in several other reviews. But what I will do is tell you that you should give this book a try if you enjoy reading lighthearted romances like I do.
First of all, I would like to say that I have enjoyed many of the Love Inspired books. They always prove to be light, quick reading, without being plot-less or boring. They are nice to keep in the car for a quick chapter while waiting for the kids, or in your bag for a nice lunchtime getaway. I appreciate the fact that these books provide that Happily Ever After without all the TMI that we all can just use our imaginations for.
I really enjoyed the way author Mia Ross described the town of Holiday Harbor. I could practically smell the salty air, and hear the call of the sea gulls. What a lovely place she has created. I would love to live there!!
I also have to say that I really enjoyed the cover of this book as well. What a beautiful scene with the lighthouse perched on the rocky shore, and the colors were soft and soothing! I found myself looking at it again and again. I know it sounds weird to go on about a book cover, but I can honestly say that a book with a nice cover will have me reaching for that certain book way before the plain covered one next to it.
This whole story was just a joy to read. I like the author's writing style, as well as the whole "feel" of the book.
I won't go into all the details of the story as you can find that on the back cover, or in several other reviews. But what I will do is tell you that you should give this book a try if you enjoy reading lighthearted romances like I do.
July 6, 2013
I received this book from the first reads giveaway through Goodreads. I don't normally read books written specifically as romance books. When entering the giveaway I decided that it sounded as if it had a good story and it should be a clean read because it was an inspirational romance book.
I really liked this book. I love stories set in small towns where everybody knows each other. I liked the quirkiness of the characters, the descriptions of the small town, the beauty of the lighthouse, the lightness of the romance, and taking the journey with Bree and her growth.
I have never been to Maine so I'm not sure if there are towns like Holiday Harbor, but I would love to go and visit if there are. It reminded me of the small beach town in Washington state that I would go to every summer with my family. Mia Ross does a wonderful job in helping paint a picture of how beautiful that place is and making you want to go there.
I think one of my favorite parts of the story was the romance. Bree and Cooper meet at the beginning of the book, but it isn't the annoying "instant love" that is in so many books. Yes, they are attracted to each other in the beginning, but their real feelings develop as they come to know each other and respect each others values and actions. They become friends first and it takes time before they admit (even to themselves) how they feel.
I really liked this book. I love stories set in small towns where everybody knows each other. I liked the quirkiness of the characters, the descriptions of the small town, the beauty of the lighthouse, the lightness of the romance, and taking the journey with Bree and her growth.
I have never been to Maine so I'm not sure if there are towns like Holiday Harbor, but I would love to go and visit if there are. It reminded me of the small beach town in Washington state that I would go to every summer with my family. Mia Ross does a wonderful job in helping paint a picture of how beautiful that place is and making you want to go there.
I think one of my favorite parts of the story was the romance. Bree and Cooper meet at the beginning of the book, but it isn't the annoying "instant love" that is in so many books. Yes, they are attracted to each other in the beginning, but their real feelings develop as they come to know each other and respect each others values and actions. They become friends first and it takes time before they admit (even to themselves) how they feel.
July 31, 2013
I won this book from the author through GoodReads, first-reads giveaway. Thank you so much.
This is an enjoyable, clean read taking place in a small coastal village that needs a shot of tourism to stay alive and well. Beautiful setting, old lighthouse and church, quaint shops and characters that you can fall in love with.
This is an enjoyable, clean read taking place in a small coastal village that needs a shot of tourism to stay alive and well. Beautiful setting, old lighthouse and church, quaint shops and characters that you can fall in love with.
October 26, 2013
She's a journalist. He's a lawyer acting as temporary mayor. Together they are working on getting more tourists to come visit the quaint town of Holiday Harbor. They spend plenty of time together and learn a few lessons from each other. An enjoyable book and I am looking forward to book 2 of Holiday Harbor.
September 17, 2024
A disgraced writer is given an assignment to write about a small town from the request of their mayor.
Bree made career mistake in one of her stories about a senator that was incorrectly reported and nearly ruined her career and personal life.
Cooper Landry is an attorney who took over being mayor in his hometown when his grandfather passed away. He is trying to maintain the charm of the city and still invite tourists. He left New York broken hearted and disappointed when his model girlfriend turned down his marriage proposal.
The two people have built walls around their hearts and have a rocky relationship at the beginning.
The town celebrates everything with a parade and fireworks. The people are genuine and kind and Bree doesn’t want to leave after discovering her feelings for the new mayor have grown romantic.
Quirky pets like a cuddly pig and giant Newfoundland dog melt even the most hardened heart.
Friendships and faith help to heal all wounds.
Bree made career mistake in one of her stories about a senator that was incorrectly reported and nearly ruined her career and personal life.
Cooper Landry is an attorney who took over being mayor in his hometown when his grandfather passed away. He is trying to maintain the charm of the city and still invite tourists. He left New York broken hearted and disappointed when his model girlfriend turned down his marriage proposal.
The two people have built walls around their hearts and have a rocky relationship at the beginning.
The town celebrates everything with a parade and fireworks. The people are genuine and kind and Bree doesn’t want to leave after discovering her feelings for the new mayor have grown romantic.
Quirky pets like a cuddly pig and giant Newfoundland dog melt even the most hardened heart.
Friendships and faith help to heal all wounds.
May 21, 2017
This is the 1st book I read by Mia Ross. I'm sorry I couldn't get to this book. The book's story line & characters were boring to me.
July 4, 2017
Great love story as well as making me fall in love with the island.
July 5, 2021
I loved the town & it’s characters.
October 13, 2015
This is the third book I have read by Mia and it was a fun read! I love how Mia takes the reader right into the heart of the location. You can almost smell the salty air and hear the crashing waves!
Holiday Harbor, Maine is faced with a dilemma of keeping their town financially viable despite the decline in the fishing industry which they rely on. The town is also divided on the proposal of a developer to build many huge houses and a golf course in an undeveloped part of the area.
Bree Farrell is a journal who has quite a personality. Sassy, outspoken and sometimes jumping to the wrong conclusion she puts her career about all else. She is given the assignment to report on this quirky little town for an online newspaper to help drum up tourist traffic to the area and help revive the economy.
Cooper Landry is a young lawyer who has also taken over as mayor after his grandads' death. His family has strong roots in the town.
To gather information for her article, Cooper takes Bree around town. Bree is drawn to the easy going townspeople. She meets many people from local fishermen, the lighthouse keeper, shop owners and a local pastor. Add in a sweet pot bellied pig and a bigger than life Newfie named Sammie and its the perfect recipe for a developing relationship.
Can Bree and Cooper leave past hurts behind and forge a new path and life together despite their very different personalities. Come visit Holiday Harbor and find out!
Holiday Harbor, Maine is faced with a dilemma of keeping their town financially viable despite the decline in the fishing industry which they rely on. The town is also divided on the proposal of a developer to build many huge houses and a golf course in an undeveloped part of the area.
Bree Farrell is a journal who has quite a personality. Sassy, outspoken and sometimes jumping to the wrong conclusion she puts her career about all else. She is given the assignment to report on this quirky little town for an online newspaper to help drum up tourist traffic to the area and help revive the economy.
Cooper Landry is a young lawyer who has also taken over as mayor after his grandads' death. His family has strong roots in the town.
To gather information for her article, Cooper takes Bree around town. Bree is drawn to the easy going townspeople. She meets many people from local fishermen, the lighthouse keeper, shop owners and a local pastor. Add in a sweet pot bellied pig and a bigger than life Newfie named Sammie and its the perfect recipe for a developing relationship.
Can Bree and Cooper leave past hurts behind and forge a new path and life together despite their very different personalities. Come visit Holiday Harbor and find out!
November 9, 2013
Rocky Coast Romance is a clean romance. There is no sex, but there is a lot of story and there is plenty of romance. Bree comes to Holiday Harbor as her last chance. Her last chance at her journalism career after thoroughly blowing it on a previous assignment. Her last chance at independence, and her last chance at love (even if she doesn't realize it at first). Writing a bit of a fluff piece about the small ocean side fishing community to help boost tourism, she discovers that there is more to the story of the struggling town that she thought at first.
At the center of it all is the Mayor, Cooper Landry. Cooper is hoping Bree's article will boost tourism for the small community so they don't decline any more than they already have. There is a big time land developer waiting in the wings for the town to flounder so he can come in and buy it up for cheap. Cooper has been hurt in the past by women, so he is determined not to let Bree effect him, but he finds that more difficult that he thought it would be.
Cooper and Bree bond over the small town's history and culture and she falls in love with the small town before she knows it, but it takes a bit longer for them both to realize just how perfect they are for each other. With a little bit of conflict thrown in to keep things really interesting, this was a great romance story.
At the center of it all is the Mayor, Cooper Landry. Cooper is hoping Bree's article will boost tourism for the small community so they don't decline any more than they already have. There is a big time land developer waiting in the wings for the town to flounder so he can come in and buy it up for cheap. Cooper has been hurt in the past by women, so he is determined not to let Bree effect him, but he finds that more difficult that he thought it would be.
Cooper and Bree bond over the small town's history and culture and she falls in love with the small town before she knows it, but it takes a bit longer for them both to realize just how perfect they are for each other. With a little bit of conflict thrown in to keep things really interesting, this was a great romance story.
June 28, 2013
I loved this book! Holiday Harbor is a charming little town where everybody knows everybody, and unlike Bree, I immediately wanted to pack up and move there! I could, however, see some of my former self in Bree. Working hard does not guarantee the desired position in work or life if one has a quirky personality. Bree has many positive qualities, including hard-working, intelligent and intuitive, and excellent in her projects. Having to re-evaluate her life and faith was a gift in disguise ... "she wondered if it was really possible that God had stripped away all the things she thought she wanted, shoving her on to a better path than the one she'd chosen herself" pg 105-106. How many of we ladies can echo that? Our heart is of far more concern to the Lord than what we think is our happiness, and we are only truly happy when our heart is turned to Him and His will for us. Would highly recommend this book of second chances, seeking God and being found by Him, and learning to trust others, as well as a sweet romance. Yes, I love Sammy, too! Wish I could see what a Newfie looks like!
Thank you, Mia Ross and Goodreads, for the contest and for sending me this wonderful book!
Thank you, Mia Ross and Goodreads, for the contest and for sending me this wonderful book!
June 18, 2014
I haven't read a Love Inspired book it awhile. To be honest, they aren't always my favorite. I feel like their is not enough time to build up a decent conflict and overcome it. I have been proved wrong in the past and some of these books do draw me in like a regular sized novel. However, this one didn't do it for me.
For one, the main conflict throughout the story was bigger than it should have been made out to be. I get why it was big to the character, but I don't understand why it effected everyone else so much.
Most of the book seemed like I was just taking a sneak peek into everyone's daily life. Nothing exciting happened. These people and their small town were considered quirky, whereas I can see them being a little eccentric, it was nothing worse than we would see going to school or to the local Walmart.
On the plus side, I loved the setting that the story took place in and I did like the characters, especially Sammy who you will find out about if you read the book.
Visit my blog at: http://kissedbooks.blogspot.com
For one, the main conflict throughout the story was bigger than it should have been made out to be. I get why it was big to the character, but I don't understand why it effected everyone else so much.
Most of the book seemed like I was just taking a sneak peek into everyone's daily life. Nothing exciting happened. These people and their small town were considered quirky, whereas I can see them being a little eccentric, it was nothing worse than we would see going to school or to the local Walmart.
On the plus side, I loved the setting that the story took place in and I did like the characters, especially Sammy who you will find out about if you read the book.
Visit my blog at: http://kissedbooks.blogspot.com
July 16, 2013
This was a sweet inspirational story of two young people who have been wounded by past events.
Mia creates such emotion, vivid detail, inspiration, humor and more in this short sweet story.
Bree and Cooper needed inspiration, encouragement and someone to believe in them/truly trust... and Mia created them for each other. Despite their stubborn attitudes that sometimes clashes, they were right for each other on all accounts and the pure "attraction" that lead to only wanting to know more before anything got serious was so nice compared to lots of other books out there today...
I loved the entire book and think anyone who believes in Jesus, redemption/forgiveness will love this sweet romantic book!
:) This was my first book by you but I can definitely say it won't be my last!
* I won this book off Good Reads first reads and in exchange for winning I agreed to post my honest review*
Mia creates such emotion, vivid detail, inspiration, humor and more in this short sweet story.
Bree and Cooper needed inspiration, encouragement and someone to believe in them/truly trust... and Mia created them for each other. Despite their stubborn attitudes that sometimes clashes, they were right for each other on all accounts and the pure "attraction" that lead to only wanting to know more before anything got serious was so nice compared to lots of other books out there today...
I loved the entire book and think anyone who believes in Jesus, redemption/forgiveness will love this sweet romantic book!
:) This was my first book by you but I can definitely say it won't be my last!
* I won this book off Good Reads first reads and in exchange for winning I agreed to post my honest review*
July 22, 2013
Bree comes to Holiday Harbor seeking one last chance to salvage her career as a journalist. Mayor Cooper Landry is desperate for the article she writes to revive the town's economy by increasing tourism. Cooper is Bree's personal tour guide during the Independence Day weekend, and Bree is given a chance to see the heart of this quirky town and its characters. Bree's visit to Holiday Harbor changes both of them, but is it enough to convince her to stay?
I enjoyed reading this book. It was fun to watch the relationship between Bree and Cooper develop, and the town certainly did have some colorful characters. It was a nice book to read, and I would recommend it, but it wasn't the most exciting book I've read lately.
I'm thankful for the First Reads copy of this book I received from the author.
I enjoyed reading this book. It was fun to watch the relationship between Bree and Cooper develop, and the town certainly did have some colorful characters. It was a nice book to read, and I would recommend it, but it wasn't the most exciting book I've read lately.
I'm thankful for the First Reads copy of this book I received from the author.
June 24, 2013
Thank you Goodreads First Reads and Mia Ross for the gift of this light, entertaining and inspiring book. After having recently read several dark, intense books, I was needing something a little more uplifting. My family recently vacationed on the Maine coast, so I could easily picture the small sleepy village of Holiday Harbor and its surroundings.
Journalist Bree Farrell who is attempting to revive her career travels to Holiday Harbor to write an article that will attract tourists to this picturesque village that needs an economic shot-in-the-arm. Cooper Landry, the town's young, handsome mayor, hopes that the headstrong Miss Farrell can provide the help that his ailing town needs. The book is full of delightful characters which make for a great read.
Journalist Bree Farrell who is attempting to revive her career travels to Holiday Harbor to write an article that will attract tourists to this picturesque village that needs an economic shot-in-the-arm. Cooper Landry, the town's young, handsome mayor, hopes that the headstrong Miss Farrell can provide the help that his ailing town needs. The book is full of delightful characters which make for a great read.
July 4, 2013
Bree Farrell is a journalist looking to prove herself after a big mistake almost cost her the career that she loved. Connor Landry, an attorney, is the mayor of his hometown, a scenic little place in Maine. When Bree is sent to Holiday Harbor to write a story that will hopefully draw tourists to the quaint town and drum up tourism, a friendship develops between the two of them. Maine is a beautiful setting for this story and the two characters have a few hurdles to work through before they can figure out if they can trust each other and open their hearts to one another. This was a very enjoyable story. Thanks to Goodreads and Mia Ross for the contest in which I received this book.
December 11, 2013
Bree Farrell is a Journalist. She decides to go to the village of Holiday Harbor to try to salvage her career. She walks into the arms of Cooper Landry the Mayor. Cooper is trying to keep the sleepy Maine community from big- city developers. Bree knows this is a major scoop. But the longer she stays in town the more the quirky townsfolk- and Cooper win her over. Will Bree follow her heart and make Holiday Harbor her home? Beautifully written i really connected with Bree i look forward to reading more books by Mia Ross.
June 24, 2015
LOVED IT!! I won this book in a goodreads first reads giveaway from the author, Mia Ross (Thank you :D ) I was very excited to win the book & read it and I was not disappointed! It is such a feel good story. When reading it, you feel like you are getting to know the characters & want to visit Holiday Harbor, not just for the beauty & history, but to help the economy,too.. lol The ending sent me on an emotional roller coaster, but I was very happy with the way the story ended.
June 29, 2013
This book was like taking a vacation without going anywhere! Though a pretty quick and light read, I enjoyed getting to know the characters in this seaside Maine town. The additional animal component was fun because anyone who has encountered either of these two animals has to have a soft spot for their cuteness! Thank you Goodreads and Mia Ross for the giveaway--I'll be checking Mia's other books!
June 26, 2013
Although this is a chaste "Christian" romance, there is enough plot and character development so this is a rewarding "beach read" that I enjoyed. The addition of two animal characters worked very well as it said a lot about the people involved. I received this book for free through Goodreads First Reads. Thanks for allowing me the opportunity to review this.
October 12, 2013
I won this book on goodreads and enjoyed it but it lacked something. I just didn't connect with the characters as much as I should have and it felt a little like the relationship between the two main characters was the side story.
June 26, 2013
Great quick read! I loved the characters and descriptive writing that allowed you to visualize the locations. I would suggest this book to anyone looking for an uplifting love story.
I received this book free from Goodreads.com.
I received this book free from Goodreads.com.
July 29, 2013
Rocky Coast Romance was a quick and easy read. I found it enjoyable and especially liked Sammy and Reggie. The visual descriptions of Holiday Harbor were great. I would like to travel to a place like that.
August 6, 2015
Romance and dog rescue, too!
This is a good little romance set in a lovely coastal village in Maine, peopled with interesting characters. I especially like Mavis, the lighthouse keeper's widow and the appealing hero, Cooper. The dog rescue added a warm depth to the main story.
This is a good little romance set in a lovely coastal village in Maine, peopled with interesting characters. I especially like Mavis, the lighthouse keeper's widow and the appealing hero, Cooper. The dog rescue added a warm depth to the main story.
June 23, 2013
Rocky Coast Romance by Mia Ross
Goodread author
A nice, wholesome romance story. Life in a small town where everyday living amd decisions are made
and enjoyed. I really liked the story.
Goodread author
A nice, wholesome romance story. Life in a small town where everyday living amd decisions are made
and enjoyed. I really liked the story.
July 24, 2013
Such a good read. I have gone through it once again already. I would love to read about more of the other characters in this book. LOVE LOVE LOVED this book
July 16, 2013
Journalist Breed Farrell is sent to Holiday Harbor to cover a story. She falls in love with the town and struggles on whether to stay in the town or write her story..
July 13, 2013
his was a good book. Nice, clean, fun to read! I really enjoyed reading this story. It was an easy read. I liked the story base.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 44 reviews