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Happy Harbor
From USA Today bestselling author Rachel Hanna, Happy Harbor is a heartfelt hometown romance perfect for fans of Debbie Macomber and Susan Mallery.
Josie Campbell has spent her entire adult life distancing herself from her childhood in the small Southern town of Happy Harbor. Growing up with an alcoholic mother who was either absent or scandalizing the town with her antics, all Josie ever wanted was to escape to somewhere no one knew her as Diane’s daughter. Now, she finally has it all—a great job, a condo in one of Atlanta’s most desirable areas, a successful fiancé, and her teenage daughter, Kendra, enrolled at a top-rated school.
But when that life falls apart, and her beloved nana dies, Josie is forced to return to the one place she never wanted to visit again. Soon, she finds herself stepping into Nana’s shoes in Happy Harbor: running her quaint restaurant, living in their family’s historic home, and bumping into Walker Jackson—the disturbingly handsome man who lives in the guest house—on a near daily basis. All of which sounds idyllic, if it weren’t for the painful memories lurking around every corner. Still, the place seems to be good for Kendra, who begs to stay, and Josie is inclined to at least make an attempt at a new life in this old town.
That is, until her mother turns up. Diane insists she’s truly sober now and wants just one more chance. Nana’s last wish was for the two of them to reconcile, and she’s even arranged things to help make that happen. But with a lifetime of painful experiences that have taught her not to trust this woman, can Josie truly bring herself to forgive Diane?
Josie Campbell has spent her entire adult life distancing herself from her childhood in the small Southern town of Happy Harbor. Growing up with an alcoholic mother who was either absent or scandalizing the town with her antics, all Josie ever wanted was to escape to somewhere no one knew her as Diane’s daughter. Now, she finally has it all—a great job, a condo in one of Atlanta’s most desirable areas, a successful fiancé, and her teenage daughter, Kendra, enrolled at a top-rated school.
But when that life falls apart, and her beloved nana dies, Josie is forced to return to the one place she never wanted to visit again. Soon, she finds herself stepping into Nana’s shoes in Happy Harbor: running her quaint restaurant, living in their family’s historic home, and bumping into Walker Jackson—the disturbingly handsome man who lives in the guest house—on a near daily basis. All of which sounds idyllic, if it weren’t for the painful memories lurking around every corner. Still, the place seems to be good for Kendra, who begs to stay, and Josie is inclined to at least make an attempt at a new life in this old town.
That is, until her mother turns up. Diane insists she’s truly sober now and wants just one more chance. Nana’s last wish was for the two of them to reconcile, and she’s even arranged things to help make that happen. But with a lifetime of painful experiences that have taught her not to trust this woman, can Josie truly bring herself to forgive Diane?
296 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 11, 2024
286 people are currently reading
12093 people want to read
About the author
Rachel Hanna
106 books2,941 followersHey there! Before I tell you all about myself, can I invite you to join my private Rachel's Readers Facebook group? That's where my readers hang out, discuss my books, participate in giveaways and learn about new releases.
You can join us here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Rache...
So who am I? My name is Rachel Hanna, and I am a wife, mother of three incredible kids (maybe I am a BIT biased?), two lovable doggies and one cat that lives outside and thinks he owns the world. Okay, I also have a gecko now too. Don't judge me.
I started writing as a young child, and I went into the field of Journalism for many years as an adult. Now, as a romantic fiction writer, I get to live out my own daydreams every single day and share them with readers around the world!
I'm a Southern chick living near Atlanta, so I say "yes, ma'm" and "ya'll", but I wouldn't have it any other way. :)
You can join us here: https://www.facebook.com/groups/Rache...
So who am I? My name is Rachel Hanna, and I am a wife, mother of three incredible kids (maybe I am a BIT biased?), two lovable doggies and one cat that lives outside and thinks he owns the world. Okay, I also have a gecko now too. Don't judge me.
I started writing as a young child, and I went into the field of Journalism for many years as an adult. Now, as a romantic fiction writer, I get to live out my own daydreams every single day and share them with readers around the world!
I'm a Southern chick living near Atlanta, so I say "yes, ma'm" and "ya'll", but I wouldn't have it any other way. :)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 227 reviews
September 25, 2025
This is a book about forgiveness, moving forward and leaving things in the past. I loved the way it highlighted life choices. The choices you make and the consequences of those choices.
I am always attracted to a book set in a small town as well as a romance or dysfunctional families. Love a good ending especially when it ends up the way you want it to.
Can't wait to read Rachels extensive backlist.
I am always attracted to a book set in a small town as well as a romance or dysfunctional families. Love a good ending especially when it ends up the way you want it to.
Can't wait to read Rachels extensive backlist.
September 22, 2024
Happy Harbor was the first book I had the pleasure of reading by Rachel Hanna. It was a well written women’s fiction with an element of romance that added to its enjoyment. This captivating story took place in the quaint town of Happy Harbor where everyone knew everyone and gossip traveled as quick as it was dispatched. The characters were flawed and complex which made them endearing and interesting. I listened to the audiobook of Happy Harbor that was narrated very well by Rebecca Gibel. She really did an exceptional job of capturing the essence of Happy Harbor and all the people that resided there.
Josie Campbell grew up in Happy Harbor but as soon as she was old enough to start making her own decisions she knew that she would leave and never come back. Over the course of Josie’s childhood, her mother, Diane, had embarrassed her more times than Josie wished to remember. Josie’s mother had come to rely on alcohol and drugs to drown out her pain, problems and struggles. Diane proved to be totally unreliable and never present when Josie needed her. Unfortunately, Josie was also often embarrassed by her mother’s behavior and suffered from her poor and almost nonexistent parenting skills. Thankfully, Josie’s grandmother stepped up and provided Josie with the love, support and the attention she was craving. Josie loved her grandmother with her whole heart. When Josie finally left Happy Harbor she promised herself that she would never return.
Years later, Josie, a single mother to a teenage daughter, Kendra, held down a prestigious job in marketing in Atlanta. She owned a spacious condo and boasted a handsome, attentive and successful fiancé. Josie’s daughter Kendra attended a prestigious private high school but Kendra was not happy. She felt like she did not belong at that school. The kids were rich, entitled and wanted nothing to do with her. Kendra purposely tried to get in trouble so that her mother would recognize how unhappy she was there. Then Josie lost her job. Josie was let go because she had a hard time delegating assignments and getting along with her coworkers. She always believed that no one could complete a project as well as she could so Josie took on more than she could handle and her performance suffered as a result. If that wasn’t bad enough, Josie’s fiancée broke off their engagement and was moving on with a much younger woman. A few days later, though, Josie received the most devastating news of all. Her beloved grandmother had died. Josie had to return to Happy Harbor, the one place she swore to never return to again. Josie had reservations about returning but knew she had no choice. Kendra, on the other hand, was excited about going to Happy Harbor but sad that it was under these circumstances. When Josie and Kendra arrived in Happy Harbor, they were instructed to meet with Josie’s grandmother’s lawyer for the reading of the Will. The funeral was to take place the following day. Josie learned that her grandmother had left her historic home and long owned restaurant to Josie. There were stipulations though. Josie had to remain in Happy Harbor for six months before she could consider selling either one of them. The other stipulation that Josie’s grandmother imposed on her was that Josie was not allowed to fire any of the employees her grandmother had working for her in that six month period. This was a nightmare for Josie! How would she survive for six months in Happy Harbor? Would Josie be able to run her grandmother’s restaurant and make it profitable again? Would Josie be able to tolerate the employees employed by her grandmother for the six month period? How would Kendra adapt to small town living?
Happy Harbor explored small town bonds where everyone pitched in to help their neighbors. It also explored the themes of family, loss, trust, friendship, forgiveness, reconciliation and trust. Perhaps the most prevalent aspect of Happy Harbor, in my opinion, was the complicated relationships between mothers and daughters. It also explored the possibility of how people could change if they really wanted to and if they put their mind to it and had the support and encouragement of those around them. Happy Harbor by Rachel Hanna was uplifting and inspiring. I really enjoyed listening to the audiobook of Happy Harbor and highly recommend it.
Thank you to Blackstone Publishing Audiobooks for allowing me to listen to the audiobook of Happy Harbor by Rachel Hanna through Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
Josie Campbell grew up in Happy Harbor but as soon as she was old enough to start making her own decisions she knew that she would leave and never come back. Over the course of Josie’s childhood, her mother, Diane, had embarrassed her more times than Josie wished to remember. Josie’s mother had come to rely on alcohol and drugs to drown out her pain, problems and struggles. Diane proved to be totally unreliable and never present when Josie needed her. Unfortunately, Josie was also often embarrassed by her mother’s behavior and suffered from her poor and almost nonexistent parenting skills. Thankfully, Josie’s grandmother stepped up and provided Josie with the love, support and the attention she was craving. Josie loved her grandmother with her whole heart. When Josie finally left Happy Harbor she promised herself that she would never return.
Years later, Josie, a single mother to a teenage daughter, Kendra, held down a prestigious job in marketing in Atlanta. She owned a spacious condo and boasted a handsome, attentive and successful fiancé. Josie’s daughter Kendra attended a prestigious private high school but Kendra was not happy. She felt like she did not belong at that school. The kids were rich, entitled and wanted nothing to do with her. Kendra purposely tried to get in trouble so that her mother would recognize how unhappy she was there. Then Josie lost her job. Josie was let go because she had a hard time delegating assignments and getting along with her coworkers. She always believed that no one could complete a project as well as she could so Josie took on more than she could handle and her performance suffered as a result. If that wasn’t bad enough, Josie’s fiancée broke off their engagement and was moving on with a much younger woman. A few days later, though, Josie received the most devastating news of all. Her beloved grandmother had died. Josie had to return to Happy Harbor, the one place she swore to never return to again. Josie had reservations about returning but knew she had no choice. Kendra, on the other hand, was excited about going to Happy Harbor but sad that it was under these circumstances. When Josie and Kendra arrived in Happy Harbor, they were instructed to meet with Josie’s grandmother’s lawyer for the reading of the Will. The funeral was to take place the following day. Josie learned that her grandmother had left her historic home and long owned restaurant to Josie. There were stipulations though. Josie had to remain in Happy Harbor for six months before she could consider selling either one of them. The other stipulation that Josie’s grandmother imposed on her was that Josie was not allowed to fire any of the employees her grandmother had working for her in that six month period. This was a nightmare for Josie! How would she survive for six months in Happy Harbor? Would Josie be able to run her grandmother’s restaurant and make it profitable again? Would Josie be able to tolerate the employees employed by her grandmother for the six month period? How would Kendra adapt to small town living?
Happy Harbor explored small town bonds where everyone pitched in to help their neighbors. It also explored the themes of family, loss, trust, friendship, forgiveness, reconciliation and trust. Perhaps the most prevalent aspect of Happy Harbor, in my opinion, was the complicated relationships between mothers and daughters. It also explored the possibility of how people could change if they really wanted to and if they put their mind to it and had the support and encouragement of those around them. Happy Harbor by Rachel Hanna was uplifting and inspiring. I really enjoyed listening to the audiobook of Happy Harbor and highly recommend it.
Thank you to Blackstone Publishing Audiobooks for allowing me to listen to the audiobook of Happy Harbor by Rachel Hanna through Netgalley in exchange for an unbiased review.
June 7, 2024
Within a few days, Josie is fired from her job, her fiancé dumps her, her daughter is expelled from school, and her grandmother died. She heads home to Happy Harbor- a place she swore to never return to- for her grandmother's funeral. Her grandmother left her her house and the family restaurant. With the requirement that Josie stays for six months- and she can't fire anyone during that period. She agrees since she has really no where else to go right now- then she discovers that her alcoholic mother has been working at the restaurant. Her grandmother meddled. Didi has been sober for a while, but Josie doesn't believe she really changed.
This started off really rough for me- Josie was intolerable. I knew she was being set up for a growth arc, but it was still hard to get through. Then there were just a bunch of things that didn't make sense- example- Josie's grandma didn't tell her she was sick because she wanted her to stay at her successful career. Yet she devised a plan to trap her in her hometown for six months. Um, the math ain't mathin'.
I just don't think I ever got over Josie's deplorable attitude and the multiple conflicting scenarios.
Rebecca Gibel narrates the audiobook. No complaints.
I received an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
This started off really rough for me- Josie was intolerable. I knew she was being set up for a growth arc, but it was still hard to get through. Then there were just a bunch of things that didn't make sense- example- Josie's grandma didn't tell her she was sick because she wanted her to stay at her successful career. Yet she devised a plan to trap her in her hometown for six months. Um, the math ain't mathin'.
I just don't think I ever got over Josie's deplorable attitude and the multiple conflicting scenarios.
Rebecca Gibel narrates the audiobook. No complaints.
I received an advance copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 15, 2025
Forgiveness, redemption, and proof that people can change ❤
Sweet sweet read about forgiveness and redemption between a mother and daughter. This book was so sweet and heartfelt. A very cozy comfort read that proves how people can change - even addicts, even as hard as it may be for people. A little bit of romance was also added and that was a sweet addition as well.
I recommend this book as it left me feeling so good and happy!
Sweet sweet read about forgiveness and redemption between a mother and daughter. This book was so sweet and heartfelt. A very cozy comfort read that proves how people can change - even addicts, even as hard as it may be for people. A little bit of romance was also added and that was a sweet addition as well.
I recommend this book as it left me feeling so good and happy!
June 3, 2024
A story about forgiveness and reconciliation between a mother and daughter. Well written. This was my first time I read a Rachel Hanna novel, enjoyed her writing style.
I was so grateful to be an ARC reader for this book. Thank you Rachel Hanna, Net Galley and Blackstone Publishing. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
I was so grateful to be an ARC reader for this book. Thank you Rachel Hanna, Net Galley and Blackstone Publishing. All opinions and thoughts are my own.
July 26, 2025
Hallmark movie/book.
June 23, 2024
This book could totally be a Hallmark movie! It has all the elements of a great story- romance, second chances, heartbreak, forgiveness, love, loss, family and a gorgeous setting. I loved the storyline- it was captivating and kept me engaged the entire time.
Josie spent her entire adult life distancing herself from her childhood in the small Southern town of Happy Harbor. Growing up with an alcoholic mother who was either absent or scandalizing the town with her antics, all Josie ever wanted was to escape to somewhere no one knew her as Diane's daughter. Now, she finally has it all--a great job, a condo in one of Atlanta's most desirable areas, a successful fiancé, and her teenage daughter, Kendra, enrolled at a top-rated school. But when that life falls apart, and her beloved nana dies, Josie is forced to return to the one place she never wanted to visit again.
I will be honest, I was not a big fan of the main character, Josie. I tried to not let her attitude and “chip on her shoulder” throughout the story taint my opinion of the entire book. I get that it was part of the author's goal in developing the story to show how the trauma and pain of her past contributed to her harsh personality.
“Sometimes our memories of bad times take up so much space that we don’t allow for better memories to replace them.”
If you are looking for an escape to a small, waterfront town this summer and love thought provoking reads and stories of second chances, I totally recommend “Happy Harbor”.
My Rating: 4 ⭐️
Josie spent her entire adult life distancing herself from her childhood in the small Southern town of Happy Harbor. Growing up with an alcoholic mother who was either absent or scandalizing the town with her antics, all Josie ever wanted was to escape to somewhere no one knew her as Diane's daughter. Now, she finally has it all--a great job, a condo in one of Atlanta's most desirable areas, a successful fiancé, and her teenage daughter, Kendra, enrolled at a top-rated school. But when that life falls apart, and her beloved nana dies, Josie is forced to return to the one place she never wanted to visit again.
I will be honest, I was not a big fan of the main character, Josie. I tried to not let her attitude and “chip on her shoulder” throughout the story taint my opinion of the entire book. I get that it was part of the author's goal in developing the story to show how the trauma and pain of her past contributed to her harsh personality.
“Sometimes our memories of bad times take up so much space that we don’t allow for better memories to replace them.”
If you are looking for an escape to a small, waterfront town this summer and love thought provoking reads and stories of second chances, I totally recommend “Happy Harbor”.
My Rating: 4 ⭐️
August 6, 2024
A very sweet light read full of emotions.
September 2, 2025
Such a cute little Hallmark read.
June 13, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5/5)
“Sometimes our memories of bad times take up so much space that we don’t allow for better memories to replace them.”
I read this book in under 24 hours. So yeah I’d say I liked it. It was cozier than the books I typically gravitate towards but something just pulled me to this one.
I connected with so many of the characters in this book. To be honest, Josie reminded me a lot of myself and reminded me there are things, just like with Josie, that I really need to work on. Don’t we all? The opening chapters are basically Josie’s world being turned upside down in every possible aspect of her life. Just the worst day.
Josie’s connection with her grandmother really pulled at my heartstrings because that is exactly how I felt about my mommom. Just like Josie’s grandmother, mine also really valued family and connections with those around her. When Josie got “the call” i was at my doctor’s office and almost cried my eyes out.
The mime & clown school part of the will was so diabolical, and hilarious.
There were several instances of instalove in this one which is one of my least favorite tropes BUT in this book it didn’t even bother me because the book was just so perfect for me to read in this particular moment of my life.
This was an all around solid read and I just loved it so much. It is going to be added to my forever shelf. ❤️
“Sometimes our memories of bad times take up so much space that we don’t allow for better memories to replace them.”
I read this book in under 24 hours. So yeah I’d say I liked it. It was cozier than the books I typically gravitate towards but something just pulled me to this one.
I connected with so many of the characters in this book. To be honest, Josie reminded me a lot of myself and reminded me there are things, just like with Josie, that I really need to work on. Don’t we all? The opening chapters are basically Josie’s world being turned upside down in every possible aspect of her life. Just the worst day.
Josie’s connection with her grandmother really pulled at my heartstrings because that is exactly how I felt about my mommom. Just like Josie’s grandmother, mine also really valued family and connections with those around her. When Josie got “the call” i was at my doctor’s office and almost cried my eyes out.
The mime & clown school part of the will was so diabolical, and hilarious.
There were several instances of instalove in this one which is one of my least favorite tropes BUT in this book it didn’t even bother me because the book was just so perfect for me to read in this particular moment of my life.
This was an all around solid read and I just loved it so much. It is going to be added to my forever shelf. ❤️
June 13, 2024
Oh I can picture this has a Hallmark movie. Has all the elements needed. Small town, workaholic Josie with a chip or two on her shoulder, mother who was in and out of her life as a child. Loving grandmother that steps up for Josie, since her alcoholic daughter Diane has no business raising a child. Now years later her grandmother has passed and Josie needs to return to Happy Harbor, with her troublesome teenage daughter in tow. Not one believing one can change, she is surprised with her grandmother will. And shocked that her mother is back in town and that she will need to work with her.
A well written story of love, family, forgiveness and second chances. It’s been awhile since I read a book in one day, but I just couldn’t put it down. Thank you #NetGallery for this ARC. All opinions are mine and mine alone. #HappyHarbor
A well written story of love, family, forgiveness and second chances. It’s been awhile since I read a book in one day, but I just couldn’t put it down. Thank you #NetGallery for this ARC. All opinions are mine and mine alone. #HappyHarbor
July 15, 2024
When Josie’s grandma dies, she and her teenage daughter must return to Josie’s hometown to run her grandma’s restaurant. Josie hasn’t been home in years because of her alcoholic mother, but having just lost her job and her fiancé, and her daughter Kendra wants a fresh start. Josie’s grandma has left Josie her house and restaurant, if she will agree to stay for 6 months, including reconciling with her now sober mom.
Jodie’s attitude was the absolute worst, and I can’t imagine that it will just magically go away after the end of the book. There were many flat characters. Josie had a love interest back in her hometown, and I don’t think we were ever given a reason why the two would like each other, but suddenly they are in love? This book was not for me.
Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an audio ARC of this book.
Jodie’s attitude was the absolute worst, and I can’t imagine that it will just magically go away after the end of the book. There were many flat characters. Josie had a love interest back in her hometown, and I don’t think we were ever given a reason why the two would like each other, but suddenly they are in love? This book was not for me.
Many thanks to NetGalley for providing me with an audio ARC of this book.
March 6, 2024
I enjoyed the premise of this novel immensely, especially the theme of forgiveness, and how people can change. I thought the main character was a little too one-dimensional, and I took a point off because some of the dialogue was redundant. However, I liked the small town setting and the different relationships between mothers and daughters.
June 26, 2024
I think the book had a nice concept, but personally I don’t think it was executed all the best and it really threw me off because I hated Josie’s character. She’s always very dramatic and bitter and jumps to conclusions at every point, and the negativity was a little further than trauma response.
June 19, 2024
Rachel Hanna, the Author of “Happy Harbor” has written an entertaining and memorable novel about second chances, forgiveness, family, community, friends, love and hope. The Genres for this book are Contemporary Fiction, Romance, and Fiction. In this well written novel, the author vividly describes the small town vibes, and the colorful and dramatic characters. The characters can be described as complex, complicated, and flawed.
Josie Campbell seems to have it all. She has a teenage daughter, an important, job, and is engaged to a respectable man, until everything seems to change. When Josie’s Nana passes away, Josie is headed to the small town of “Happy Harbor”, where she grew up and is remembered as often getting into trouble. After the will is read, it seems that Josie will inherit the restaurant and home that her Nana owned with some stipulations. Josie fears seeing her estranged mother, and some of her painful memories.
I highly recommend this memorable and thought-provoking novel to other readers. I look forward to reading other books from Rachel Hanna.
Josie Campbell seems to have it all. She has a teenage daughter, an important, job, and is engaged to a respectable man, until everything seems to change. When Josie’s Nana passes away, Josie is headed to the small town of “Happy Harbor”, where she grew up and is remembered as often getting into trouble. After the will is read, it seems that Josie will inherit the restaurant and home that her Nana owned with some stipulations. Josie fears seeing her estranged mother, and some of her painful memories.
I highly recommend this memorable and thought-provoking novel to other readers. I look forward to reading other books from Rachel Hanna.
May 29, 2025
a nice feel good book! Classic hallmark story: city woman moves back to her hometown because of a family matter. Ends up realizing she loves her hometown and family legacy. Meets the man of her dreams. You know the one!
June 10, 2024
Review to come!
January 18, 2025
I probably would’ve loved this in like 6th grade … def written for middle schoolers😭
June 24, 2025
A cute read! I enjoyed the themes of repairing mother/daughter relationships and finding love. I always enjoy the small town Southern settings in every Rachel Hanna book!
July 22, 2025
3.5. It’s was your typical Hallmark type of book. Nice story though but very predictable.
August 5, 2025
This was a sweet, enjoyable southern family book with a touch of romance. It was a good comfort read that gave me all the warm fuzzies. I’m rating it 3 1/2 rounded up to 4 stars
Full review and post on Instagram @on_a_sandbar
“Sometimes we need to change how we react to things, not for the other person, but for our own peace.”
I received the book as a gifted copy from Blackstone Publishing and it took me awhile to get to it, but great timing, because it turned out to be the perfect summer read.
Happy Harbor is about Josie Campbell, a management director in Atlanta who would rather work alone than deal with her team of employees. Her teen daughter, Kendra is having a hard time at the pretentious high school. Josie gets fired, then broken up with by her fiancée (both incidents for ‘being difficult’) and Kendra’s suspended from school. An untimely crisis back home in Happy Harbor necessitates a return to the last place Josie wants to be.
This was a sweet small beach town romance, no spice - all feelings.
I found it heartfelt, funny, and loved all the small town quirky residents.
The main character, Josie was frustratingly stubborn, but eventually redeemed herself.
I loved the other characters and the descriptions of the picturesque small town in Georgia.
If you’re looking for another perfect beach read, here ya go!
Full review and post on Instagram @on_a_sandbar
“Sometimes we need to change how we react to things, not for the other person, but for our own peace.”
I received the book as a gifted copy from Blackstone Publishing and it took me awhile to get to it, but great timing, because it turned out to be the perfect summer read.
Happy Harbor is about Josie Campbell, a management director in Atlanta who would rather work alone than deal with her team of employees. Her teen daughter, Kendra is having a hard time at the pretentious high school. Josie gets fired, then broken up with by her fiancée (both incidents for ‘being difficult’) and Kendra’s suspended from school. An untimely crisis back home in Happy Harbor necessitates a return to the last place Josie wants to be.
This was a sweet small beach town romance, no spice - all feelings.
I found it heartfelt, funny, and loved all the small town quirky residents.
The main character, Josie was frustratingly stubborn, but eventually redeemed herself.
I loved the other characters and the descriptions of the picturesque small town in Georgia.
If you’re looking for another perfect beach read, here ya go!
October 28, 2025
This was a nice story about a small town like the one I grew up and still live in. I had heard a lot about Rachel Hanna but was hesitant to try her because I’m not a romance fan. But my friend Beth Wolf recommended this story and she was right I enjoyed it.
December 21, 2024
I can’t remember why I put this book on hold like 6 months ago. Josie is a very annoying and whiney Lorelai Gilmore.
December 23, 2024
I really enjoyed "Happy Harbor," the new stand alone novel by Rachel Hanna. It is the kind of book you could read in a weekend, curled up under a blanket with a good cup of coffee (or tea), and perhaps a gentle dog or cat by your side. It took me 10+ days to read it only because we had a revolving door of company recently, so even though I started it, and immediately liked it, the book sat untouched for more than a week. I read most of it in the last two days, and can now share my thoughts. The book is sweet. Sure there are sad and painful events in the characters' pasts, but the over all vibe is sweetness, kindness, warmth, and hope. Sometimes, that is all we need on a cold winter's day when our lives are feeling hurried and overly busy.
For years, Josie has been living in Atlanta with her teenaged daughter, Kendra. Kendra has not been doing well in school, and has been suspended. Josie has just been fired from her job for her inability to work well with others, and her beloved grandmother has just died. Her grandmother raised her, gave her all the love Josie never got from her own mother, Diane, who was an alcoholic and either absent or drunk. When Josie is summoned to Happy Harbor, a tiny, fictional town in the low country of the Deep South, for the reading of her grandmother's will she is shocked to learn she has inherited not only the 100 year old house in which her grandmother raised her, but also the always busy restaurant her grandmother ran. The people of Happy Harbor had all loved her grandmother and welcomed Josie and Kendra back with open arms, but Josie has no intention of staying. The glitch that kept her there was that the will stipulated she had to stay in town and run the restaurant for 6 months before she could sell it. She enrolled Kendra in the same small high school where she had gone herself, and where she had often times caused trouble. What Josie was not counting on, was learning that Diane (called Dee Dee by the staff at the restaurant) had returned years earlier, and claims to be clean and sober. Josie is not a believer in the idea that people can change. I have to agree with her there. I think most people are whom they are and it is very difficult to changes one's nature, despite the best intentions. Josie is not willing to give her mother a chance, but does not really have a choice in that matter.
When Josie learns that the restaurant is in danger of being taken by the bank due to money borrowed against it for reasons revealed later in the book, she turns to the very kind guy, Walker, she keeps seeing around town, and who happens to rent the guest cottage on the property she inherited. He has a great idea for raising the needed funds, and the locals are willing to help. Of course, as with any good book, there will be many obstacles to overcome for Josie and Kendra to find the kinds of lives they deserve. Josie trusts no one, but Walker might be worthy of her trust. Kendra meets a young man who is so different from other boys she has known. Their friendship and romance was refreshing in its innocence.
Rachel Hanna did a good job with this book, tying up all the storylines and leaving me satisfied with how it all played out. I had hoped the story might continue and that the book would be the first in a series, but it a stand alone novel, so I will have to use my imagination to ponder how things go after the story ended. This is a book mothers of teenaged girls can feel safe to let their kids read. It is very tame, rated G, but the story still was really good, akin to a better than average Hallmark movie. 4 stars.
For years, Josie has been living in Atlanta with her teenaged daughter, Kendra. Kendra has not been doing well in school, and has been suspended. Josie has just been fired from her job for her inability to work well with others, and her beloved grandmother has just died. Her grandmother raised her, gave her all the love Josie never got from her own mother, Diane, who was an alcoholic and either absent or drunk. When Josie is summoned to Happy Harbor, a tiny, fictional town in the low country of the Deep South, for the reading of her grandmother's will she is shocked to learn she has inherited not only the 100 year old house in which her grandmother raised her, but also the always busy restaurant her grandmother ran. The people of Happy Harbor had all loved her grandmother and welcomed Josie and Kendra back with open arms, but Josie has no intention of staying. The glitch that kept her there was that the will stipulated she had to stay in town and run the restaurant for 6 months before she could sell it. She enrolled Kendra in the same small high school where she had gone herself, and where she had often times caused trouble. What Josie was not counting on, was learning that Diane (called Dee Dee by the staff at the restaurant) had returned years earlier, and claims to be clean and sober. Josie is not a believer in the idea that people can change. I have to agree with her there. I think most people are whom they are and it is very difficult to changes one's nature, despite the best intentions. Josie is not willing to give her mother a chance, but does not really have a choice in that matter.
When Josie learns that the restaurant is in danger of being taken by the bank due to money borrowed against it for reasons revealed later in the book, she turns to the very kind guy, Walker, she keeps seeing around town, and who happens to rent the guest cottage on the property she inherited. He has a great idea for raising the needed funds, and the locals are willing to help. Of course, as with any good book, there will be many obstacles to overcome for Josie and Kendra to find the kinds of lives they deserve. Josie trusts no one, but Walker might be worthy of her trust. Kendra meets a young man who is so different from other boys she has known. Their friendship and romance was refreshing in its innocence.
Rachel Hanna did a good job with this book, tying up all the storylines and leaving me satisfied with how it all played out. I had hoped the story might continue and that the book would be the first in a series, but it a stand alone novel, so I will have to use my imagination to ponder how things go after the story ended. This is a book mothers of teenaged girls can feel safe to let their kids read. It is very tame, rated G, but the story still was really good, akin to a better than average Hallmark movie. 4 stars.
July 30, 2024
I’ve read several of Rachel Hanna’s books, and I’ve loved them all!
This one reads like a Hallmark Movie. That being said, I’m a sap for Hallmark movies!
Josie Campbell has a good position in a job that she loves, a successful fiancé who does well for himself, and a beautiful teenage daughter in HS.
She also has a grandmother that she loves and adores, who practically raised her as a child, because her mother was an alcoholic. She’s more like her mother than her gram…. But, she never has time to go spend with her as she’s always busy with work…
Within a few days, ALL of this falls apart, and she is left wondering what to do.
On top of everything else, she receives a phone call from a lawyer stating that she needs to come home to Happy Harbor, as her grandmother died, and she needs to be present at the reading of the will!
THIS IS THE OPENING OF THE BOOK!!!
We come to find that her grandmother was brilliant! She had a plan in mind, that she MASTERED, so that things would HAVE to work out the way she wanted… And it was phenomenal!! And that’s all I’m saying here!
As you read you will be unraveling the layers of Josie’s life… as well as her grandmother’s (Adeline Campbell) and her daughter’s (Kendra) and her Mom’s (Diane).
Josie had a really difficult upbringing, as her mother was either ‘not present’ or drunk, doing crazy things… So no surprise that Josie wants nothing to do with her, and has absolutely no trust in her, and fears that she never will! It also appears to have affected her entire life, as she finds it hard to trust, in general…
Along the way we meet many interesting characters, as will happen in a small town, but the most interesting for me was Walker…handsome, kind and good natured too!
I’m going to end it here, as I don’t want to give anything away…but, if you love Hallmark movies, please be sure to pick this one up!!
4 1/2 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 for me, rounded up to 5!
#HappyHarbor by #RachelHanna and narrated nicely by #RebeccaGibel.
Oh, and I just LOVE the cover, too!
⭐️ Small town vibes
⭐️ Love interest
⭐️Family over everything (Kendra will always come first!)
⭐️ Brilliant Grandma (and her antics)
💫 Feel good story
Sadly, once again, Blackstone Publishing did not grant me early access for this one, so I had to wait for it via the library… so the review is a bit late…
For some reason I am blacklisted from Blackstone. ?? LOL. 😮🤣
Feel free to like, follow and friend me on: Goodreads,
IG @ #BookReviews_with_emsr or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine.
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends!! 📚⭐️
This one reads like a Hallmark Movie. That being said, I’m a sap for Hallmark movies!
Josie Campbell has a good position in a job that she loves, a successful fiancé who does well for himself, and a beautiful teenage daughter in HS.
She also has a grandmother that she loves and adores, who practically raised her as a child, because her mother was an alcoholic. She’s more like her mother than her gram…. But, she never has time to go spend with her as she’s always busy with work…
Within a few days, ALL of this falls apart, and she is left wondering what to do.
On top of everything else, she receives a phone call from a lawyer stating that she needs to come home to Happy Harbor, as her grandmother died, and she needs to be present at the reading of the will!
THIS IS THE OPENING OF THE BOOK!!!
We come to find that her grandmother was brilliant! She had a plan in mind, that she MASTERED, so that things would HAVE to work out the way she wanted… And it was phenomenal!! And that’s all I’m saying here!
As you read you will be unraveling the layers of Josie’s life… as well as her grandmother’s (Adeline Campbell) and her daughter’s (Kendra) and her Mom’s (Diane).
Josie had a really difficult upbringing, as her mother was either ‘not present’ or drunk, doing crazy things… So no surprise that Josie wants nothing to do with her, and has absolutely no trust in her, and fears that she never will! It also appears to have affected her entire life, as she finds it hard to trust, in general…
Along the way we meet many interesting characters, as will happen in a small town, but the most interesting for me was Walker…handsome, kind and good natured too!
I’m going to end it here, as I don’t want to give anything away…but, if you love Hallmark movies, please be sure to pick this one up!!
4 1/2 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️💫 for me, rounded up to 5!
#HappyHarbor by #RachelHanna and narrated nicely by #RebeccaGibel.
Oh, and I just LOVE the cover, too!
⭐️ Small town vibes
⭐️ Love interest
⭐️Family over everything (Kendra will always come first!)
⭐️ Brilliant Grandma (and her antics)
💫 Feel good story
Sadly, once again, Blackstone Publishing did not grant me early access for this one, so I had to wait for it via the library… so the review is a bit late…
For some reason I am blacklisted from Blackstone. ?? LOL. 😮🤣
Feel free to like, follow and friend me on: Goodreads,
IG @ #BookReviews_with_emsr or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine.
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends!! 📚⭐️
July 1, 2024
I just finished Happy Harbor by Rachel Hanna Audiobook - Narrated by Rebecca Gibel and here are my musings.
Josie Campbell left Happy Harbor and hasn’t looked back. The only thing she misses is her grandmother. She doesn’t miss growing up with an alcoholic mother. One whose antics are the stuff of legends or the fact she was barely there for Josie growing up.
Josie has a great job, a condo she loves, a fiance and a beautiful teenage daughter who goes to a top high school. Things could not be better. Then in the blink of an eye it all crumbles in an instant. Her fiance ends things and she is fired from her job… Icing on the cake, her daughter Kendra is suspended for the rest of the year. Can things get worse?
The next thing she knows is her beloved Nana has passed away and Josie has to return to a place that she wanted to forget. Her Nana has left her the house and the restaurant. Josie wants neither but Kendra really wants to stay so inserting herself into Nana's shoes and soon is glad she did. The handsome renter is a huge bonus of being home but her mother, Diana, working in the restaurant is not something she was expecting to have to face but Diana is sober and Nana put this all into place in hopes they can reconcile before it is too late.
I wasn’t sure I was going to like this one but the second the narrator started to talk, I already knew I was wrong. I felt like the story was written in such a way that you can’t help becoming fully invested in these women.
This book covers some pretty deep topics. Alcoholism, death, child neglect to name a few. It isn’t difficult enough for me to issue trigger warnings but they are for anyone who may need a warning. I felt the book did a great job of accurately portraying everything it touches upon while keeping the book more on the uplifting side.
The book is really well written and I loved how the women all came together at the end to forgive and move past all the negative things that have plagued their lives. They all grow and change into the kind of people they can be proud of. I’m a big fan of connecting with characters in books and this one was done to utter perfection.
Loved the small town feel with the cute romance thrown in. Definitely a winning combination in my world,
4 stars thank you @netgalley and @blackstonepublishing for my gifted copy
June 19, 2024
"Happy Harbor" by Rachel Hanna intricately weaves a tale of redemption, forgiveness, and the power of homecoming in this captivating romance novel. Josie Campbell, our resilient protagonist, undergoes a profound journey of self-discovery as she confronts the ghosts of her past in the quaint Southern town she once longed to escape. The author adeptly crafts Josie's character, portraying her as a complex woman whose layers unravel gradually throughout the narrative. Hanna skillfully delves into Josie's psyche, allowing readers to empathize with her struggles, fears, and ultimately, her triumphs.
The plot unfolds seamlessly, blending elements of heartache, humor, and hope. As Josie navigates the complexities of family dynamics and grapples with her mother's sudden return, readers are drawn into a compelling exploration of forgiveness and second chances. The inclusion of Walker Jackson, the enigmatic love interest, adds depth and intrigue to the story, as his presence serves as both a source of comfort and challenge for Josie. Their budding romance is portrayed with sensitivity and authenticity, capturing the essence of two wounded souls finding solace in each other amidst the turmoil of their pasts.
Hanna's vivid descriptions breathe life into the charming setting of Happy Harbor, evoking a sense of nostalgia and warmth that envelops readers from the very first page. From the quaint restaurant to the historic family home, each location is meticulously depicted, serving as more than just a backdrop but rather as integral components of Josie's journey towards healing and acceptance. Moreover, the author's exploration of themes such as addiction, resilience, and the bonds of family adds depth and poignancy to the narrative, resonating with readers on a deeply emotional level.
Overall, "Happy Harbor" is a compelling and heartwarming romance novel that will undoubtedly appeal to fans of the genre. With its well-drawn characters, engaging plot, and evocative prose, Rachel Hanna delivers a captivating tale of love, forgiveness, and the enduring power of home. Whether you're seeking an escape into a charming Southern town or a poignant exploration of the human heart, this book promises to leave a lasting impression.
The plot unfolds seamlessly, blending elements of heartache, humor, and hope. As Josie navigates the complexities of family dynamics and grapples with her mother's sudden return, readers are drawn into a compelling exploration of forgiveness and second chances. The inclusion of Walker Jackson, the enigmatic love interest, adds depth and intrigue to the story, as his presence serves as both a source of comfort and challenge for Josie. Their budding romance is portrayed with sensitivity and authenticity, capturing the essence of two wounded souls finding solace in each other amidst the turmoil of their pasts.
Hanna's vivid descriptions breathe life into the charming setting of Happy Harbor, evoking a sense of nostalgia and warmth that envelops readers from the very first page. From the quaint restaurant to the historic family home, each location is meticulously depicted, serving as more than just a backdrop but rather as integral components of Josie's journey towards healing and acceptance. Moreover, the author's exploration of themes such as addiction, resilience, and the bonds of family adds depth and poignancy to the narrative, resonating with readers on a deeply emotional level.
Overall, "Happy Harbor" is a compelling and heartwarming romance novel that will undoubtedly appeal to fans of the genre. With its well-drawn characters, engaging plot, and evocative prose, Rachel Hanna delivers a captivating tale of love, forgiveness, and the enduring power of home. Whether you're seeking an escape into a charming Southern town or a poignant exploration of the human heart, this book promises to leave a lasting impression.
February 27, 2024
In Rachel Hanna's poignant and heartwarming novel, "Happy Harbor," Josie Campbell, a woman who has spent years distancing herself from her troubled childhood in the small Southern town of Happy Harbor, is forced to confront her past when she returns home following the death of her beloved grandmother. As Josie reluctantly steps into her grandmother's shoes, she finds herself running the family restaurant, living in the historic family home, and crossing paths with the enigmatic and attractive Walker Jackson. Amidst the beauty of the town and the love of her daughter, Kendra, who thrives in this new environment, Josie struggles to reconcile with the painful memories that haunt her. However, Josie's journey towards healing and forgiveness takes an unexpected turn when her estranged mother, Diane, arrives, claiming to be sober and seeking a second chance. Torn between her longing for a family and the lifetime of pain inflicted by her mother's past actions, Josie must decide whether she can find it in her heart to forgive and rebuild a relationship with Diane. Hanna's writing is evocative and skillfully captures Josie's emotions and the nuances of her relationships. The setting of Happy Harbor is vividly portrayed, becoming a character in its own right, with its charm and history playing a significant role in Josie's journey. "Happy Harbor" is a compelling story about confronting the past, finding forgiveness, and ultimately discovering healing and hope. Hanna delves into the intricacies of the character's lives, the lasting effects of trauma, and the power of second chances, creating a narrative that is both emotionally resonant and thought-provoking. Readers will find themselves invested in Josie's struggle and rooting for her as she navigates the challenges of her past and embraces the possibility of a brighter future.
June 2, 2024
I listened to this book rather than read it. I like listening to books when I'm running, going on errands, or doing chores. This is my first book from this author, but I don't plan for it to be my last in either audiobook or print form. I've been trying to read more books in other genres and have been enjoying throwing in lighter romance and beach reads in my rotation.
The book is told mainly from the perspective of Josie Campbell, mother of Kendra, daughter of Diane, and granddaughter of Adaline. We do get some chapters from Diane's perspective as well. Josie had Kendra when she was young and Diane had Josie young. Diane is also a former alcoholic, but is now sober. Josie seems to have the "perfect life from the outside- a great job, a lovely home in Atlanta, and her daughter enrolled in a nice school. But one day it all comes undone and this leads Josie back to her childhood home in Happy Harbor.
What ensues is a combination of predictable and unpredictable in my opinion, but I want to keep my review spoiler free, so I'm not going to share any more. What I will say is that I enjoyed the development of the different characters (I especially enjoyed that there was a neurodivergent character because I was not expecting it), and the themes of forgiveness, second chances, and believing that people can change. Some of the things that occured were a bit predictable and cheesy, but I also appreciated how the author explored some big topics with grace. The daughter (Kendra) was my favorite character and I did find Diane to be more sympathetic as the book went on.
All in all, I give the audiobook narration 4.5/5 and the book itself 4/5, so that's where my 4/5 star rating comes from.
A complimentary audiobook copy was provided by Blackstone Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
The book is told mainly from the perspective of Josie Campbell, mother of Kendra, daughter of Diane, and granddaughter of Adaline. We do get some chapters from Diane's perspective as well. Josie had Kendra when she was young and Diane had Josie young. Diane is also a former alcoholic, but is now sober. Josie seems to have the "perfect life from the outside- a great job, a lovely home in Atlanta, and her daughter enrolled in a nice school. But one day it all comes undone and this leads Josie back to her childhood home in Happy Harbor.
What ensues is a combination of predictable and unpredictable in my opinion, but I want to keep my review spoiler free, so I'm not going to share any more. What I will say is that I enjoyed the development of the different characters (I especially enjoyed that there was a neurodivergent character because I was not expecting it), and the themes of forgiveness, second chances, and believing that people can change. Some of the things that occured were a bit predictable and cheesy, but I also appreciated how the author explored some big topics with grace. The daughter (Kendra) was my favorite character and I did find Diane to be more sympathetic as the book went on.
All in all, I give the audiobook narration 4.5/5 and the book itself 4/5, so that's where my 4/5 star rating comes from.
A complimentary audiobook copy was provided by Blackstone Publishing via Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.
June 6, 2024
Happy Harbor sounds like the perfect place to find happiness. Unfortunately for Josie Campbell this place holds a lot of unhappy and painful memories. She fled her hometown many years ago, and never looked back. Her mother, Diane, humiliated her with her drunken antics. The only thing about Happy Harbor that was good for her was her grandmother, Nana.
Josie is finally living her dream with a successful career. She is also engaged and has been able to get her daughter, Kendra, enrolled into a top-notch school. In one fell swoop her world crumbles around her. Everything that was good is now tainted. Then she receives the news that her beloved Nana has died. When she reluctantly heads to Happy Harbor, she has no idea that her world is about to be even further knocked off its axis.
I saw three differing opinions from our three main characters. Kendra looked at the move as a second chance, an opportunity to start over. Diane is looking for forgiveness, while also acknowledging that she does not deserve it. Josie has a generally bad attitude about everything, but as I learned more about her haunted past, I found myself empathizing with her and then wanting to have a stern talk with her as well.
This was a very special book about second chances, forgiveness and finding happiness in circumstances by letting go of the past. It was also a lesson that no matter how much of a control freak Josie was at times, she had to learn to let go. The characters had real life issues which made them relatable and easy to like. I also loved the community of Happy Harbor. These folks cared about one another and took care of each other. This is what I called a warm snuggles book, as it will just warm your heart right up.
Thank you to Blackstone Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Josie is finally living her dream with a successful career. She is also engaged and has been able to get her daughter, Kendra, enrolled into a top-notch school. In one fell swoop her world crumbles around her. Everything that was good is now tainted. Then she receives the news that her beloved Nana has died. When she reluctantly heads to Happy Harbor, she has no idea that her world is about to be even further knocked off its axis.
I saw three differing opinions from our three main characters. Kendra looked at the move as a second chance, an opportunity to start over. Diane is looking for forgiveness, while also acknowledging that she does not deserve it. Josie has a generally bad attitude about everything, but as I learned more about her haunted past, I found myself empathizing with her and then wanting to have a stern talk with her as well.
This was a very special book about second chances, forgiveness and finding happiness in circumstances by letting go of the past. It was also a lesson that no matter how much of a control freak Josie was at times, she had to learn to let go. The characters had real life issues which made them relatable and easy to like. I also loved the community of Happy Harbor. These folks cared about one another and took care of each other. This is what I called a warm snuggles book, as it will just warm your heart right up.
Thank you to Blackstone Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC. I am leaving this review voluntarily.
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