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Heavenly Daze #1
The Island of Heavenly Daze
To a casual visitor, the island of Heavenly Daze is just like a dozen others off the coast of Maine. It is decorated with graceful Victorian mansions, carpeted with gray cobblestones and bright wild flowers, and populated by sturdy, hard-working folks-most of whom are unaware that the island of Heavenly Daze is not just like the other islands of coastal Maine. The small town that crowns its peak consists of seven buildings, each inhabited, according to divine decree, by an angel who has been commanded to guard and help anyone who crosses the threshold.
Unexpected hijinks and heart-warming results occur when mortals and immortals cross paths-and unaware visitors to the picturesque establishments of Heavenly Daze discover that they have been entertained by angels.
276 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 2000
About the author
Angela Elwell Hunt
326 books2,065 followersChristy-Award winner Angela Hunt writes for readers who have learned to expect the unexpected in novels from this versatile author. With nearly six million copies of her books sold worldwide, she is the best-selling author of more than 170 works ranging from picture books (The Tale of Three Trees) to novels.
Now that her two children are grown, Angie and her husband live in Florida with Very Big Dogs (a direct result of watching Turner and Hooch and Sandlot too many times). This affinity for mastiffs has not been without its rewards--one of their dogs was featured on Live with Regis and Kelly as the second-largest canine in America. Their dog received this dubious honor after an all-expenses-paid trip to Manhattan for the dog and the Hunts, complete with VIP air travel and a stretch limo in which they toured New York City.
Afterward, the dog gave out pawtographs at the airport.
Angela admits to being fascinated by animals, medicine, psychology, unexplained phenomena, and “just about everything” except sports. Books, she says, have always shaped her life— in the fifth grade she learned how to flirt from reading Gone with the Wind.
Her books have won the coveted Christy Award, several Angel Awards from Excellence in Media, and the Gold and Silver Medallions from Foreword Magazine’s Book of the Year Award. In 2007, her novel The Note was featured as a Christmas movie on the Hallmark channel. Romantic Times Book Club presented her with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006, and American Christian Fiction Writers bestowed the same award in 2019.
In 2006, Angela completed her Master of Biblical Studies in Theology degree and completed her second doctorate in 2015. When she’s not home reading or writing, Angie often travels to teach writing workshops at schools and writers’ conferences. And to talk about her dogs, of course.
Now that her two children are grown, Angie and her husband live in Florida with Very Big Dogs (a direct result of watching Turner and Hooch and Sandlot too many times). This affinity for mastiffs has not been without its rewards--one of their dogs was featured on Live with Regis and Kelly as the second-largest canine in America. Their dog received this dubious honor after an all-expenses-paid trip to Manhattan for the dog and the Hunts, complete with VIP air travel and a stretch limo in which they toured New York City.
Afterward, the dog gave out pawtographs at the airport.
Angela admits to being fascinated by animals, medicine, psychology, unexplained phenomena, and “just about everything” except sports. Books, she says, have always shaped her life— in the fifth grade she learned how to flirt from reading Gone with the Wind.
Her books have won the coveted Christy Award, several Angel Awards from Excellence in Media, and the Gold and Silver Medallions from Foreword Magazine’s Book of the Year Award. In 2007, her novel The Note was featured as a Christmas movie on the Hallmark channel. Romantic Times Book Club presented her with a Lifetime Achievement Award in 2006, and American Christian Fiction Writers bestowed the same award in 2019.
In 2006, Angela completed her Master of Biblical Studies in Theology degree and completed her second doctorate in 2015. When she’s not home reading or writing, Angie often travels to teach writing workshops at schools and writers’ conferences. And to talk about her dogs, of course.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
October 13, 2025
I didn’t finish. I just couldn’t get into it. I tried to read but just couldn’t. It was too long and hard to read and not interesting enough for me. 😔 Sorry to anyone who liked it.
June 30, 2026
I read this series about 20 years ago and I loved it so incredibly much, so I searched it out and found the entire series for sale on Ebay and bought it. I am so happy to report that I loved this first book just as much this time around as I did the first time I read it. There were some aspects of it that I remembered, but more that I forgot. I am just in love with this little island and loved to daydream about living somewhere like that. I love seeing all of the different personalities, and ways the people of Heavenly Daze interact with each other. The book does such a good job of pointing out different character issues that people struggle with, in a way that feels so authentic. The added part of the angels that live among the townspeople (which they are completely unaware of, because the angels have taken on human form for their assignments) is just the best. I truly can't say enough good things about this book. It had me smiling all the way through and I can't wait to read the next one. If you're looking for a sweet, quick read...get your hands on this book now!
April 24, 2019
This novel had a bit of fantasy added with several angels who became human and helped people on the Island of Heavenly Daze. It was a light read, kind of humorous and it also contained much of spiritual value, especially about how to treat people and the power of love and forgiveness. The minister of the island, Winslow Wickam is a caring person, with some personal issues, and his wife knows how to help him to be better. We've all known a minister or person like him. I loved all the people in this book, very real and a lot of fun.
April 9, 2008
I almost didn't read this book after the prologue. I thought it was going to be a "strange" angelic book by what I initially read, but I promised myself 3 chapters before I would decide. (I can never stop reading a book once I start, but I was allowing myself to do so.) I'm glad I didn't stop reading. It was a nice book: nice town, nice characters, etc. I really enjoyed it.
March 27, 2008
Cute story about an island protected by angels. Reminds me of the Mitford series.
October 28, 2015
I really enjoyed this book. I laughed out loud several times...and it also had a great message.
December 2, 2019
Great and touching book :))
September 18, 2025
Two good Authors come together to put out a light read yet powerful book. I found this was very refreshing and a reminder about angels all around . God's love to each other.
I enjoyed this book .
I enjoyed this book .
September 4, 2022
I loved this first book in the whimsical and quirky Heavenly Daze series! With an idyllic setting on a small Maine island, it beautifully combines many elements - humor, Christian life lessons, relationship drama. Seven angels live among the island's residents, interacting with them. I'm not crazy about fantasy, but it works beautifully here. Several residents are introduced and I'm sure their stories will be developed as the series continues.
In this first story, the focus is on two families - an estranged mother and niece, and the minister and his wife. The Christian themes are very meaningful and there's some great laugh-out-loud moments. I highly recommend this story and look forward to continuing the series.
Quotes:
"The balm of forgiveness heals many a wound."
"What we see as trial, God often intends as blessing. But we need to adjust our perspective to see the truth."
In this first story, the focus is on two families - an estranged mother and niece, and the minister and his wife. The Christian themes are very meaningful and there's some great laugh-out-loud moments. I highly recommend this story and look forward to continuing the series.
Quotes:
"The balm of forgiveness heals many a wound."
"What we see as trial, God often intends as blessing. But we need to adjust our perspective to see the truth."
March 28, 2022
An amusing story about the happenings in a small town, a pastor with insecurities and the funny things that happens along the way. A lighter read yet some powerful messages in the mix.
May 22, 2009
I'm about to start on page 89, chapter 9 and really, nothing much has been happening to hold my interest. I've even briefly thought about giving up on the book -- at least for now. However, Angela Hunt is a talented author (The Elevator and The Fairlawn Series) so I will see how this proceeds.
p. 125 - still nothing to write home about.
The pastor of a church is given a portrait of himself, made from a photo taken 3 years ago and what he sees makes him blanch. Not only that but he and his wife on separate occasions hear talk of bringing a new preacher to their church and this new guy, he hears, is handsome. After seeing light reflecting off a bald spot on his head in the portrait, he decides he's got to make some fast changes. Winslow buys a toupee, trying it out at home before making his debut "rug" appearance. That maiden appearance is in the pulpit. He avoids the congregation's gaze but still hears tittering. He's got their attention anyway.
This is the story of what happens when one jumps to conclusions. There was some skimming through the book. There were some funny parts.
p. 125 - still nothing to write home about.
The pastor of a church is given a portrait of himself, made from a photo taken 3 years ago and what he sees makes him blanch. Not only that but he and his wife on separate occasions hear talk of bringing a new preacher to their church and this new guy, he hears, is handsome. After seeing light reflecting off a bald spot on his head in the portrait, he decides he's got to make some fast changes. Winslow buys a toupee, trying it out at home before making his debut "rug" appearance. That maiden appearance is in the pulpit. He avoids the congregation's gaze but still hears tittering. He's got their attention anyway.
This is the story of what happens when one jumps to conclusions. There was some skimming through the book. There were some funny parts.
July 10, 2015
I loved this series. They made me laugh out-loud. Not many books do. This is a story of a little town where everyone knows everyone. It is story of a small town church and its pastor. I guess it was so funny because I have met some of these people in real life and she is so right on with what happens. There is also a message in the books about the love for God and one another.
This book and the series are just plain fun, fun, fun.
Disclosure of Material Connection:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
This book and the series are just plain fun, fun, fun.
Disclosure of Material Connection:
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”
Nora St Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins www.bookfun.org
The Book Club Network blog www.psalm516.blogspot.com
Book Fun Magazine www.bookfunmagazine.com
July 24, 2009
A delightful read
This is my second time reading this series! It's so interesting reading it in a different phase of life. The first time I was a mom of little kids and now my kids are grown. So, I was able to relate to some of the older characters more this time around.
There were some seriously hilarious moments in the story as well as heartfelt, touching moments in the story.
This is an island full of characters so wet get to meet a lot of people and angels in the first book. We learn of the family dynamics and friendships.
This story focused mostly on the pastor and his wife as well as one of the matriarchs of the island and her niece. It was so good to watch the Lord work in the lived of the people and how He used the angels.
Looking forward to the rest of the stories again!
This is my second time reading this series! It's so interesting reading it in a different phase of life. The first time I was a mom of little kids and now my kids are grown. So, I was able to relate to some of the older characters more this time around.
There were some seriously hilarious moments in the story as well as heartfelt, touching moments in the story.
This is an island full of characters so wet get to meet a lot of people and angels in the first book. We learn of the family dynamics and friendships.
This story focused mostly on the pastor and his wife as well as one of the matriarchs of the island and her niece. It was so good to watch the Lord work in the lived of the people and how He used the angels.
Looking forward to the rest of the stories again!
June 22, 2015
This is the first book of the series. Written by Angela Hunt and Lori Copeland, it is found in the RPL under Copeland (COP). I didn't get this book until I had read the other 4. They all can be "stand alone" books, but I would suggest reading them in order. This book gives you a good "history" of the island and how it got started! Christian theme, easy read. Takes place on an island off the coast of Maine.
January 13, 2024
"Hearts at Home" by co-authors Lori Copeland & Angela Hunt
This is the first book in the series about Heavenly Daze.
I loved this book. There are so many characters and things to smirk about.
I look forward to reading the other 4 books in this series.
This is the first book in the series about Heavenly Daze.
I loved this book. There are so many characters and things to smirk about.
I look forward to reading the other 4 books in this series.
February 27, 2018
Enjoyed this book very much. Love the people living on the island, quirky but loving.
December 13, 2018
Another great book.
April 12, 2019
I loved this book. I laughed, I cried but I saw myself in some of these people....just refreshing to read about real life!!
July 3, 2021
This Christian fiction novel has all the elements of a feel-good story and is a perfect beach read. In fact, I started reading it at the beach!
It is set in Maine (my home state so that gives it an edge IMHO) on the fictional island of Heavenly Daze and it is populated by imperfect, relatable characters. The story has small town charm and angels from on high. Yep, actual angels who help the residents of the island. It sounds quirky, or is it?
This book is the first in a five book series, and introduces the reader to many of the townspeople. The main storyline revolves around a relationship gone wrong between Olympia and her niece, Annie, who are both longing to mean something to the other and Pastor Wickham and his comical efforts to retain his pastorate when he gives into fear thinking he is being replaced.
The love and care of the Father shines through the angels who watch over the island’s residents. I enjoyed this part of the book because it reminded me that the spiritual world is real and there are angels all around.
This series has all the elements that I love in a good story: flawed characters, small town charm, a little comic relief, and faith which makes all the difference.
It is set in Maine (my home state so that gives it an edge IMHO) on the fictional island of Heavenly Daze and it is populated by imperfect, relatable characters. The story has small town charm and angels from on high. Yep, actual angels who help the residents of the island. It sounds quirky, or is it?
This book is the first in a five book series, and introduces the reader to many of the townspeople. The main storyline revolves around a relationship gone wrong between Olympia and her niece, Annie, who are both longing to mean something to the other and Pastor Wickham and his comical efforts to retain his pastorate when he gives into fear thinking he is being replaced.
The love and care of the Father shines through the angels who watch over the island’s residents. I enjoyed this part of the book because it reminded me that the spiritual world is real and there are angels all around.
This series has all the elements that I love in a good story: flawed characters, small town charm, a little comic relief, and faith which makes all the difference.
March 19, 2024
THE ISLAND OF HEAVENLY DAZE by Angela Elwell Hunt -- I don't think I've ever read a book published by Christian publisher Thomas Nelson, other, perhaps, than The Bible. Christian fiction generally takes on a theological slant that isn't usually agreeable with my own. Nevertheless, I was intrigued by the book's description and gave it a try. Heavenly Daze is an island off the coast of Maine, populated by descendants of old, founding families as well as some newcomers and lots of summer tourists. There are also seven angels sent by God to help, watch over, and live as humans among the population. The story is told by the angel Gabriel, one of the seven, serving as butler to a wealthy woman descended from the early settlers. She is set in her ways and in constant conflict with her granddaughter who comes for a visit. The main character is Winslow Wickam, pastor of the local church, caring shepherd to his flock, but insecure and balding. He's suspicious his congregation is about to replace him. There are interesting characters, enjoyable action, and enough religious references and some theology to add interest, along with a good deal of humor. I enjoyed it and recommend it.
May 12, 2020
I needed a sweet, easy book to read and this was it. I got it out of our church library. Like some other reviewers, in the beginning I wasn't sure what I was getting into. But, it all comes together. I laughed a lot (a pastor with a new toupe among one of the funniest parts). I also became attached to the unique characters living on the island. And, throughout the story, are good gentle lessons about loving your neighbor and not jumping to conclusions. If you are a fan of Jan Karon you'll enjoy this one!
September 15, 2023
Whether you have visited coastal Maine or not, if you have a hankering for the comfort of a small town with all the relatives you love and tips on how to ignore the ones that push your buttons, then you will thoroughly enjoy this book!
I love the premise, with the angels in human form lending a helping hand or foot in many creative ways to quietly help the people of this small island. With each ferry there are new developments, secrets to uncover and friendships to hopefully improve.
I love the premise, with the angels in human form lending a helping hand or foot in many creative ways to quietly help the people of this small island. With each ferry there are new developments, secrets to uncover and friendships to hopefully improve.
October 15, 2018
Loved this book and I don't like reading christian books. This was an exception because my Grandmother had recently died and I wanted to read a book she had enjoyed. So it was this or the Mitord series. My mother had already read welcome to Mitford so we opted to read this series together. Very quaint and endearing series. Look forward to reading the rest with my mother.
October 23, 2023
Halfway through and cannot finish it. I've been trying to read it for a month but dread picking it up. Someone compared it to the Mitford series which I did not like either. Just a humdrum little story...no humor, no exciting events, boring characters. I'll pass the entire series on to someone else to try.
May 22, 2025
A nice beginning to this fun series about the residents of Heavenly Daze, a small island off the coast of Maine. The town is inhabited by a number of quirky residents and some real angels living as men among the people. An easy to read and enjoyable little book.
June 13, 2026
I so enjoyed this book! It reminded me of Jan Karon’s books, which I also loved. The characters are real and relatable, as well as flawed and lovable. And of course, I loved the foundation of faith woven throughout the story. I’m eager to read the rest of the series.
August 15, 2026
A fun read!
It's refreshing to read a book loaded with spiritual truths, human weaknesses, and human personality quirks. Through memorable characters the authors make readers eager for sequels.
It's refreshing to read a book loaded with spiritual truths, human weaknesses, and human personality quirks. Through memorable characters the authors make readers eager for sequels.
November 1, 2026
Having never read the Mitford series, I imagine it being very similar to this series. Small town (island in this case), colorful characters, close-knit community. Several characters have their own narrative developing throughout the book, so it’s not just a single narrative.
August 29, 2018
This series was so fun to read aloud to Becca and sometimes caught me with tears because of a poignant segment.
February 21, 2019
The book takes quite a while to get going. Some of the characters are likeable. Others slightly annoying. If it wasn’t such an easy read, I would have put it down. 2 & a half stars
Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews