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Starshine Cove #3
Finding Hope in Starshine Cove
A heartwarming story of friendship, new beginnings, and second chances that will have you reaching for the tissues!
Lucy Brown has spent years hiding from the world, as far away as she could get from her old life – and her ex-husband – back in London. But when she reluctantly agrees to leave her safe haven to attend her old friend Ella’s wedding in Starshine Cove, little does she know what’s in store for her down in Dorset…
When a chance airport encounter with a handsome stranger unexpectedly leads to a deeper connection, Lucy finds her trip becoming much more than just a last-minute holiday. But then her dark past comes knocking, just as she always feared it would. Will the magic of Starshine Cove be enough to heal the hurts that Lucy has carried with her all these years, or has this one-of-a-kind village by the sea finally met its match?
Lucy Brown has spent years hiding from the world, as far away as she could get from her old life – and her ex-husband – back in London. But when she reluctantly agrees to leave her safe haven to attend her old friend Ella’s wedding in Starshine Cove, little does she know what’s in store for her down in Dorset…
When a chance airport encounter with a handsome stranger unexpectedly leads to a deeper connection, Lucy finds her trip becoming much more than just a last-minute holiday. But then her dark past comes knocking, just as she always feared it would. Will the magic of Starshine Cove be enough to heal the hurts that Lucy has carried with her all these years, or has this one-of-a-kind village by the sea finally met its match?
250 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 24, 2024
400 people are currently reading
188 people want to read
About the author
Debbie Johnson
31 books908 followersDebbie Johnson is an award-winning author who lives and works in Liverpool, where she divides her time between writing, caring for a small tribe of children and animals, and not doing the housework.
She writes feel-good emotional women’s fiction, and has sold more than 1,000,000 books worldwide. She is published globally in many different languages, and has had two books optioned for film and TV.
Her books include the best-selling Comfort Food Cafe series, The A-Z of Everything, Maybe One Day, The Moment I Met You, Falling for You and the Starshine Cove books.
She is also the author of supernatural crime thriller, Fear No Evil, and urban fantasies Dark Vision and Dark Touch.
source: Amazon
She writes feel-good emotional women’s fiction, and has sold more than 1,000,000 books worldwide. She is published globally in many different languages, and has had two books optioned for film and TV.
Her books include the best-selling Comfort Food Cafe series, The A-Z of Everything, Maybe One Day, The Moment I Met You, Falling for You and the Starshine Cove books.
She is also the author of supernatural crime thriller, Fear No Evil, and urban fantasies Dark Vision and Dark Touch.
source: Amazon
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April 3, 2024
Finding Hope in Starshine Cove by Debbie Johnson
Synopsis /
Lucy Brown has spent years hiding from the world, as far away as she could get from her old life – and her ex-husband – back in London. But when she reluctantly agrees to leave her safe haven to attend her old friend Ella’s wedding in Starshine Cove, little does she know what’s in store for her down in Dorset…
When a chance airport encounter with a handsome stranger unexpectedly leads to a deeper connection, Lucy finds her trip becoming much more than just a last-minute holiday. But then her dark past comes knocking, just as she always feared it would. Will the magic of Starshine Cove be enough to heal the hurts that Lucy has carried with her all these years, or has this one-of-a-kind village by the sea finally met its match?
My Thoughts /
First and foremost, a huge THANK YOU to NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and author Debbie Johnson, for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review. Publication date is currently set for April 24, 2024.
The first thing I wanted to do when I finished this book was book a one-way ticket to Starshine Cove!
Finding Hope in Starshine Cove is the book #3 in the Starshine Cove series by Debbie Johnson. If you haven't read any of this series before, have no fear, as neither did I and I had no trouble keeping up and I didn't feel like I was missing some back connections.
If there was a 'Feel Good' award, this book would take first prize. Relatively short at 257 pages (which was just the right length IMO) it's packed full of joy and 'feel good' vibes. Full Disclosure: I don't read a whole lot of books in this contemporary/romance genre, so maybe my thoughts might be a little skewed(??) but this was just a very enjoyable book and a really nice respite from heavier reads. Plus, the author dedicated the book to her readers, so, big 'ticks' all round from me.
Single mum, Lucy Brown is at the airport with her teenage daughter, Rose. Both are travelling to Starshine Cove where they are to attend the wedding of her friend, Ella. Lucy and Ella met when the two attended the same university, and together with a couple of other girls became a close-knit group of friends. When Lucy married, she dropped out of contact with her girlfriends, choosing to focus all her attentions on her husband, Robert. Sadly, the marriage ended when Lucy realised that her husband was emotionally coercive and controlling. Sixteen years later and Lucy is still dealing with the fallout of her abusive relationship. But putting her insecurities aside, Lucy is looking forward to reuniting with her friends again and having a wonderful vacation with her daughter.
Once the duo arrives in Starshine Cove, the mood lifts and it's all rainbows and unicorns. Starshine Cove is a place where the unusual happens; a place where magical things seem to occur; it's a place where someone might find a second chance.
Johnson has written a light and colourful story. The combination of wit and humour together with fun scenes and a little light romance hits the spot. The characters, on their face, are a little unbelievable, but when combined with the whole Starshine Cove magical element, suddenly become believable.
Themes of community, hope, and love burst from the pages of this story.
If you read this one, I guarantee you'll be wanting to book yourself a ticket to Starshine Cove too!
#NetGalley #FindingHopeinStarshineCove #DebbieJohnson
Synopsis /
Lucy Brown has spent years hiding from the world, as far away as she could get from her old life – and her ex-husband – back in London. But when she reluctantly agrees to leave her safe haven to attend her old friend Ella’s wedding in Starshine Cove, little does she know what’s in store for her down in Dorset…
When a chance airport encounter with a handsome stranger unexpectedly leads to a deeper connection, Lucy finds her trip becoming much more than just a last-minute holiday. But then her dark past comes knocking, just as she always feared it would. Will the magic of Starshine Cove be enough to heal the hurts that Lucy has carried with her all these years, or has this one-of-a-kind village by the sea finally met its match?
My Thoughts /
First and foremost, a huge THANK YOU to NetGalley, Storm Publishing, and author Debbie Johnson, for providing me with a copy of this publication, which allows me to provide you with an unbiased review. Publication date is currently set for April 24, 2024.
The first thing I wanted to do when I finished this book was book a one-way ticket to Starshine Cove!
Finding Hope in Starshine Cove is the book #3 in the Starshine Cove series by Debbie Johnson. If you haven't read any of this series before, have no fear, as neither did I and I had no trouble keeping up and I didn't feel like I was missing some back connections.
If there was a 'Feel Good' award, this book would take first prize. Relatively short at 257 pages (which was just the right length IMO) it's packed full of joy and 'feel good' vibes. Full Disclosure: I don't read a whole lot of books in this contemporary/romance genre, so maybe my thoughts might be a little skewed(??) but this was just a very enjoyable book and a really nice respite from heavier reads. Plus, the author dedicated the book to her readers, so, big 'ticks' all round from me.
Single mum, Lucy Brown is at the airport with her teenage daughter, Rose. Both are travelling to Starshine Cove where they are to attend the wedding of her friend, Ella. Lucy and Ella met when the two attended the same university, and together with a couple of other girls became a close-knit group of friends. When Lucy married, she dropped out of contact with her girlfriends, choosing to focus all her attentions on her husband, Robert. Sadly, the marriage ended when Lucy realised that her husband was emotionally coercive and controlling. Sixteen years later and Lucy is still dealing with the fallout of her abusive relationship. But putting her insecurities aside, Lucy is looking forward to reuniting with her friends again and having a wonderful vacation with her daughter.
Once the duo arrives in Starshine Cove, the mood lifts and it's all rainbows and unicorns. Starshine Cove is a place where the unusual happens; a place where magical things seem to occur; it's a place where someone might find a second chance.
Johnson has written a light and colourful story. The combination of wit and humour together with fun scenes and a little light romance hits the spot. The characters, on their face, are a little unbelievable, but when combined with the whole Starshine Cove magical element, suddenly become believable.
Themes of community, hope, and love burst from the pages of this story.
If you read this one, I guarantee you'll be wanting to book yourself a ticket to Starshine Cove too!
#NetGalley #FindingHopeinStarshineCove #DebbieJohnson
April 20, 2024
Most stories could use a little magic. Give me 300 pages of introspective literary fiction and I'll show you a story that wouldn't be hurt by a sudden curse or other bit of wand waving.
Debbie Johnson gets that. In Finding Hope in Starshine Cove, third in her Starshine Cove series, Johnson returns to the titular idyllic village in southwest England that seems to open itself to individuals just when they most need a visit. Quite literally. In a bit of Brigadoon-esque charm, Starshine Cove doesn't show up on any maps and appears virtually unreachable unless you have an invitation or purpose. Fortunately, Lucy Brown, after reconnecting with college pals, has a wedding to attend and we're treated to her first exposure to this somewhat offbeat, perhaps literally charming locale.
While this hint of the slightly mystic is left primarily to the town itself, in the first chapter, Lucy weaves some magic of her own. Sitting at the airport, waiting on a plane so she can pick up her teenage daughter, Rose, who's visiting Lucy's ex-husband, she makes up stories while observing fellow passengers. When a handsome stranger, Josh, begins hitting on her, she can't help but conjure up an alter ego in the form of Amelia to flirt right back. Because while Amelia might be confident, Lucy Brown sure isn't.
This is only one scene, but it illustrates a major part of why Finding Hope in Starshine Cove, fantastical elements and all, works—Johnson has tapped into the mess and joy of being human. Lucy, still struggling after an abusive relationship with her ex, can't seem to move comfortably in her own life. Making up tales in her head while people watching is cute, but Johnson immediately follows with a disappointing encounter with Josh. Having lied about her identity, nothing serious could ever happen between them and they go their separate ways. It's an idea Johnson deftly returns to again and again. We, as readers, come to know Lucy as a funny, good person, but she sabotages her own happiness based on a mound of self-doubt.
After reconnecting with her (immensely likable) daughter, Lucy lands in Starshine Cove, a place where everyone seems to care for their neighbor and at least one person is obsessed with a Big Mouth Billy Bass (also immensely likable). In true magic fashion, Josh, who's actually related to the groom, turns up, and it's suddenly a whirlwind of the two awkwardly reconnecting. At least initially. After all, even if she doesn't see it, Lucy is painted as a lovely catch, and it's genuinely sweet as Josh slowly peels back at her guarded layers.
However, it's not all unicorns and rainbows, and Johnson also handles some serious topics, including abuse, with tact while not shying away. While magic or luck might have guided Lucy and Josh back together, Johnson never suggests some spell can suddenly heal old wounds. Rather, the remedy must come from her richly drawn characters themselves. It's perhaps the strongest addition to an otherwise riotously funny, thoughtful book.
Ultimately, Finding Hope in Starshine Cove is a touch of magic and a lot of heart.
I received a free ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
Review also published at pluckedfromthestacks.wordpress.com
Debbie Johnson gets that. In Finding Hope in Starshine Cove, third in her Starshine Cove series, Johnson returns to the titular idyllic village in southwest England that seems to open itself to individuals just when they most need a visit. Quite literally. In a bit of Brigadoon-esque charm, Starshine Cove doesn't show up on any maps and appears virtually unreachable unless you have an invitation or purpose. Fortunately, Lucy Brown, after reconnecting with college pals, has a wedding to attend and we're treated to her first exposure to this somewhat offbeat, perhaps literally charming locale.
While this hint of the slightly mystic is left primarily to the town itself, in the first chapter, Lucy weaves some magic of her own. Sitting at the airport, waiting on a plane so she can pick up her teenage daughter, Rose, who's visiting Lucy's ex-husband, she makes up stories while observing fellow passengers. When a handsome stranger, Josh, begins hitting on her, she can't help but conjure up an alter ego in the form of Amelia to flirt right back. Because while Amelia might be confident, Lucy Brown sure isn't.
This is only one scene, but it illustrates a major part of why Finding Hope in Starshine Cove, fantastical elements and all, works—Johnson has tapped into the mess and joy of being human. Lucy, still struggling after an abusive relationship with her ex, can't seem to move comfortably in her own life. Making up tales in her head while people watching is cute, but Johnson immediately follows with a disappointing encounter with Josh. Having lied about her identity, nothing serious could ever happen between them and they go their separate ways. It's an idea Johnson deftly returns to again and again. We, as readers, come to know Lucy as a funny, good person, but she sabotages her own happiness based on a mound of self-doubt.
After reconnecting with her (immensely likable) daughter, Lucy lands in Starshine Cove, a place where everyone seems to care for their neighbor and at least one person is obsessed with a Big Mouth Billy Bass (also immensely likable). In true magic fashion, Josh, who's actually related to the groom, turns up, and it's suddenly a whirlwind of the two awkwardly reconnecting. At least initially. After all, even if she doesn't see it, Lucy is painted as a lovely catch, and it's genuinely sweet as Josh slowly peels back at her guarded layers.
However, it's not all unicorns and rainbows, and Johnson also handles some serious topics, including abuse, with tact while not shying away. While magic or luck might have guided Lucy and Josh back together, Johnson never suggests some spell can suddenly heal old wounds. Rather, the remedy must come from her richly drawn characters themselves. It's perhaps the strongest addition to an otherwise riotously funny, thoughtful book.
Ultimately, Finding Hope in Starshine Cove is a touch of magic and a lot of heart.
I received a free ARC of this book from the publisher through NetGalley.
Review also published at pluckedfromthestacks.wordpress.com
April 18, 2024
I received a free copy of, Finding Hope in Starshine Cove,by Debbie Johnson, from the publisher and Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This is book 3 of 3 in The Starshine Cove series. Lucy Brown is a bit of a recluse, she has to return to the living to got her friends wedding in Starshine Cove, Dorset. The past always seems to catch up with us as it does with Lucy. Lucy is much stronger then she thinks she is, after being controlled for so long, she has come out much stronger on the other side. I was rooting for Lucy, throughout the book. I enjoyed this book.
March 23, 2024
Another fabulous and moving story by Debbie Johnson! Like so many other readers, I was delighted to return to Starshine Cove. It is such a unique and special place with its beautiful star-filled caves and welcoming community that you never want to leave! This time we meet Lucy Brown and her daughter Rose who live in Ireland (because it is a safe haven) but they are on their way to Starshine Cove to attend a wedding of best friend Ella.
From the start, Finding Hope in Starshine Cove, has some clever wit and humour that really sets a colourful mood and lightens the atmosphere. Lucy has quite an imagination and enjoys sitting in the airport conjuring up names and stories of people around her waiting for flights. Here, she takes on another identity and imagines herself to be Amelia— a highflying corporate security expert. She tries to be someone she is not (daring, flirty and fearless) when she is actually quite the opposite– mostly because she has been through a rough time, scarred from a past marriage to a very controlling husband. Hiding the trauma with humour and pretence are her reliable coping mechanisms. But although she has been clear of her ex-husband for a number of years (he married another), her brief encounters with him still rattle her when she drops off their daughter for visits. He continues to demean Lucy with his arrogant comments but their sixteen year old ignores his controlling pep talks. Rose does not care that he dislikes her clothes and attitudes for she has established her own identity and will not be swayed. She is strong and wise. Her half sibs love her immensely and she is a blessing to her father’s wife: who is in desperate need of help for many reasons. Soon we learn why and that this family is dealing with tragic and familiar problems.
Although there is fun and humour (seen at the hen’s night/party) and wonderful romantic interludes, there are some deep and troubling issues at the core of this story of women receiving mental abuse and being physically restrained (locked in a room). The fear that this breeds is staggering and how these victims are so affected by the trauma, it hinders future relationships. But Starshine Cove is where the unusual happens and second chances are possible. Because this inspiring community has a way of turning broken lives around.
It was great to see familiar characters from the previous books again and how they interacted with Lucy. Of course, I cannot forget handsome heart-throb Josh—such a caring, warm and witty man who touches Lucy’s heart in a way like no other. And yes, a relationship is sparked but she struggles with the past and how it has affected her sense of safety and trust. Yet the warmth and healing powers of Starshine Cove begin to soften and coax her to wholeness—or at least put her on the right path.
Lucy’s daughter plays an important role. Rose is very mature for her age and puts forth great arguments to her mother in helping her find happiness—making her see she deserves it, too.
The plot is well paced and the character developments are gentle but visible. The ending is apt and joyous. Those who deserve fresh starts receive them and justice is hinted upon for one person in particular! The two wives of this manipulator find freedom and safety in those who surround them (family and friends). You cannot ask for a better ending than that! It is a beautifully written story: unforgettable and uplifting. I look forward to reading more stories set in Starshine Cove: a magical place that beams with community spirit, kind hearts and tender hope. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for my review copy.
From the start, Finding Hope in Starshine Cove, has some clever wit and humour that really sets a colourful mood and lightens the atmosphere. Lucy has quite an imagination and enjoys sitting in the airport conjuring up names and stories of people around her waiting for flights. Here, she takes on another identity and imagines herself to be Amelia— a highflying corporate security expert. She tries to be someone she is not (daring, flirty and fearless) when she is actually quite the opposite– mostly because she has been through a rough time, scarred from a past marriage to a very controlling husband. Hiding the trauma with humour and pretence are her reliable coping mechanisms. But although she has been clear of her ex-husband for a number of years (he married another), her brief encounters with him still rattle her when she drops off their daughter for visits. He continues to demean Lucy with his arrogant comments but their sixteen year old ignores his controlling pep talks. Rose does not care that he dislikes her clothes and attitudes for she has established her own identity and will not be swayed. She is strong and wise. Her half sibs love her immensely and she is a blessing to her father’s wife: who is in desperate need of help for many reasons. Soon we learn why and that this family is dealing with tragic and familiar problems.
Although there is fun and humour (seen at the hen’s night/party) and wonderful romantic interludes, there are some deep and troubling issues at the core of this story of women receiving mental abuse and being physically restrained (locked in a room). The fear that this breeds is staggering and how these victims are so affected by the trauma, it hinders future relationships. But Starshine Cove is where the unusual happens and second chances are possible. Because this inspiring community has a way of turning broken lives around.
It was great to see familiar characters from the previous books again and how they interacted with Lucy. Of course, I cannot forget handsome heart-throb Josh—such a caring, warm and witty man who touches Lucy’s heart in a way like no other. And yes, a relationship is sparked but she struggles with the past and how it has affected her sense of safety and trust. Yet the warmth and healing powers of Starshine Cove begin to soften and coax her to wholeness—or at least put her on the right path.
Lucy’s daughter plays an important role. Rose is very mature for her age and puts forth great arguments to her mother in helping her find happiness—making her see she deserves it, too.
The plot is well paced and the character developments are gentle but visible. The ending is apt and joyous. Those who deserve fresh starts receive them and justice is hinted upon for one person in particular! The two wives of this manipulator find freedom and safety in those who surround them (family and friends). You cannot ask for a better ending than that! It is a beautifully written story: unforgettable and uplifting. I look forward to reading more stories set in Starshine Cove: a magical place that beams with community spirit, kind hearts and tender hope. 5 Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thanks to Storm Publishing and Netgalley for my review copy.
March 14, 2024
Book Reveiw: Finding Hope in Starshine Cove
Stars: 4 X 5
Author: Debbie Johnson
Publisher: Storm Publishing
Lucy has been dealing with the after effects of an abusive relationship from 16 years ago. One could say that she has PTSD. He ex Robert is an MD and is remarried with two small children. Lucy’s friend Ella is getting married at Starshine Cove. She brings her 16 year old daughter Rose with her for the wedding. Many of Lucy’s old University friends are also attending the wedding. Lucy ends up seeing Josh at the wedding as he is the brother of Ella’s fiancé’s brother. Lucy at Josh recently had a chance encounter at the airport and Lucy pretended to be someone else. Josh is rather upset with her as he doesn’t like people who lie and lets it be known and tells her that they can just get through the wedding. As the wedding festivities go on, Josh and Lucy get to know each other and Lucy continues to have issue with her PTSD and she finally lets her girlfriend know what has happened in the past. Lucy and Josh become closer and then Lucy’s ex shows up and confronts her. He is looking for his wife and children as she has packed up her belongings and left him. Lucy’s friends rally around her as she finally stand up to her ex Robert. The wedding is a success. Lucy and Josh now have to decide what to do with their relationship. The one thing that is apparent is Lucy is doing better now as is Rose. Lucy was once a veterinarian and she has now decided to go back to school, take courses she need to become a practicing veterinarian again. As for Josh and Lucy, you will need to read the book to see how that chapter ends. Thanks Debbie Johnson for a wonderful story.
Stars: 4 X 5
Author: Debbie Johnson
Publisher: Storm Publishing
Lucy has been dealing with the after effects of an abusive relationship from 16 years ago. One could say that she has PTSD. He ex Robert is an MD and is remarried with two small children. Lucy’s friend Ella is getting married at Starshine Cove. She brings her 16 year old daughter Rose with her for the wedding. Many of Lucy’s old University friends are also attending the wedding. Lucy ends up seeing Josh at the wedding as he is the brother of Ella’s fiancé’s brother. Lucy at Josh recently had a chance encounter at the airport and Lucy pretended to be someone else. Josh is rather upset with her as he doesn’t like people who lie and lets it be known and tells her that they can just get through the wedding. As the wedding festivities go on, Josh and Lucy get to know each other and Lucy continues to have issue with her PTSD and she finally lets her girlfriend know what has happened in the past. Lucy and Josh become closer and then Lucy’s ex shows up and confronts her. He is looking for his wife and children as she has packed up her belongings and left him. Lucy’s friends rally around her as she finally stand up to her ex Robert. The wedding is a success. Lucy and Josh now have to decide what to do with their relationship. The one thing that is apparent is Lucy is doing better now as is Rose. Lucy was once a veterinarian and she has now decided to go back to school, take courses she need to become a practicing veterinarian again. As for Josh and Lucy, you will need to read the book to see how that chapter ends. Thanks Debbie Johnson for a wonderful story.
March 24, 2024
I was overjoyed to find another installment in the Starshine Cove series and read it as soon as I could.
I can honestly say that the first chapter in the book is the best first chapter that I have ever read! It is refreshing honest, funny and intriguing all at once! It introduces the character of Lucy in the most human way possible and doesn't gloss over flaws like some 2 dimensional characters, but owns up to them unapologetically. Love that!
The book is a smooth easy read and yet oddly emotional as I found myself relating to the history of the characters quite a lot.
I'm glad that some hard hitting and raw feelings are shown and that some, often triggering, scenarios are dealt with in such a careful and tactful way.
Apart from that side of things, we are treated to more fun, friendly and frivolous moments from a cast of characters that we all love. Bringing us back into Starshine Cove with it's rich community and its magic is so heart warming and freeing that it is traumatic to read the last page. I'm quite devastated that this is fiction! If I had to choose a fictional setting to spend my days in, after the Harry Potter universe, then the Starshine Cove community would be a hands down winner!
Thanks to Debbie Johnson for her humour and warmth and writing all sorts of scenarios in a gentle and touching way. And thank you for the hens night chapter...Poldark had to have a mention in there somewhere!
Thanks to Netgalley and the author and publisher for a temporary copy in exchange for an honest review.
I can honestly say that the first chapter in the book is the best first chapter that I have ever read! It is refreshing honest, funny and intriguing all at once! It introduces the character of Lucy in the most human way possible and doesn't gloss over flaws like some 2 dimensional characters, but owns up to them unapologetically. Love that!
The book is a smooth easy read and yet oddly emotional as I found myself relating to the history of the characters quite a lot.
I'm glad that some hard hitting and raw feelings are shown and that some, often triggering, scenarios are dealt with in such a careful and tactful way.
Apart from that side of things, we are treated to more fun, friendly and frivolous moments from a cast of characters that we all love. Bringing us back into Starshine Cove with it's rich community and its magic is so heart warming and freeing that it is traumatic to read the last page. I'm quite devastated that this is fiction! If I had to choose a fictional setting to spend my days in, after the Harry Potter universe, then the Starshine Cove community would be a hands down winner!
Thanks to Debbie Johnson for her humour and warmth and writing all sorts of scenarios in a gentle and touching way. And thank you for the hens night chapter...Poldark had to have a mention in there somewhere!
Thanks to Netgalley and the author and publisher for a temporary copy in exchange for an honest review.
April 6, 2024
This was a really lovely visit back to Starshine Cove, a hidden village full of slightly eccentric, but very warm-hearted, locals!
I've loved all this series, but I think this was my favourite so far. Lucy lives in the wilds of Ireland but has travelled to Starshine Cove in Dorset, along with her 16 year old daughter Rose, to attend an old friend's wedding. Whilst at the airport she has a slight flirtation with a handsome guy (Josh), pretending she has a different life/name, and unfortunately he turns out to be the groom's brother, which she finds out at the hen party!
It didn't get off to a very good start, but once things are finally sorted out Lucy and Josh get closer, albeit very slowly, as Lucy definitely has trust issues because of her pyschologically abusive ex-husband. Lucy had a lucky escape from him, but now the same thing is happening to his new wife, who later turns up in Starshine Cove needing help along with her three young children, Rose's step-brothers and sister who she is very close to.
So there's lots of emotions flying around, with the wedding preparations and celebrations in full flow, Lucy reconnecting with her old friends, Rose finally realising what her father is really like, the second wife finding the courage to break free of her marriage, and Lucy and Josh's relationship progressing. Josh was really lovely and so patient with Lucy.
Each of the books in this series can be read separately, but it's always nice to know the story of the other characters, Ella from the first book (marrying in this book) and Cally in the second book, so I'd recommend reading them in order, and they're also both lovely reads. Very enjoyable series, I look forward to the next book.
I've loved all this series, but I think this was my favourite so far. Lucy lives in the wilds of Ireland but has travelled to Starshine Cove in Dorset, along with her 16 year old daughter Rose, to attend an old friend's wedding. Whilst at the airport she has a slight flirtation with a handsome guy (Josh), pretending she has a different life/name, and unfortunately he turns out to be the groom's brother, which she finds out at the hen party!
It didn't get off to a very good start, but once things are finally sorted out Lucy and Josh get closer, albeit very slowly, as Lucy definitely has trust issues because of her pyschologically abusive ex-husband. Lucy had a lucky escape from him, but now the same thing is happening to his new wife, who later turns up in Starshine Cove needing help along with her three young children, Rose's step-brothers and sister who she is very close to.
So there's lots of emotions flying around, with the wedding preparations and celebrations in full flow, Lucy reconnecting with her old friends, Rose finally realising what her father is really like, the second wife finding the courage to break free of her marriage, and Lucy and Josh's relationship progressing. Josh was really lovely and so patient with Lucy.
Each of the books in this series can be read separately, but it's always nice to know the story of the other characters, Ella from the first book (marrying in this book) and Cally in the second book, so I'd recommend reading them in order, and they're also both lovely reads. Very enjoyable series, I look forward to the next book.
November 8, 2024
Lucy Brown, a divorced single mother of sixteen-year-old Rose, seeks solace in London after escaping her abusive marriage to a gaslighter. Seeking respite, she visits Starshine Cove to attend her best friend Ella’s wedding. However, her reunion with friends whose lives have diverged unexpectedly brings about a poignant reflection on the unforeseen twists and turns that life often takes.
Regrettably, Lucy’s character is highly relatable due to her severe anxiety stemming from an abusive marriage. Her relationship with Rose was heartwarming to witness. Additionally, Lucy’s compassionate nature is evident as she empathizes with her ex’s new wife, who is experiencing the same struggles she once endured, despite her powerlessness to intervene.
This reading material is not for the faint of heart. Gaslighting is a serious issue, as is any form of domestic abuse. As I delved into this book, I gained valuable insights into real-life social media scenarios where gaslighting has had a profound impact on individuals.
This literary work presents a perplexing coincidence for Lucy. She had been drawn to a man she encountered at the airport, even engaging in some flirtatious conversation with him. After all, he was an unfamiliar individual, someone she would never have the opportunity to meet again. However, she is utterly astounded when the two individuals cross paths in Starshine Cove. Reuniting with this stranger, named Josh, exacerbates Lucy’s panic attacks, as she finds it utterly improbable that she would ever be able to trust another man in the same manner.
As an avid enthusiast of reading series, it is uncommon for me to read books out of order. However, due to time constraints, I was unable to read the first two books. Fortunately, this novel flowed exceptionally well as a standalone work, while undoubtedly incorporating recurring characters from the first two books in the series. Having now completed Finding Hope in Starshine Cove I have made it my firm intention to follow subsequent books in this series, as this novel left me with a strong desire for more.
Many thanks to Storm Publishing and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
Regrettably, Lucy’s character is highly relatable due to her severe anxiety stemming from an abusive marriage. Her relationship with Rose was heartwarming to witness. Additionally, Lucy’s compassionate nature is evident as she empathizes with her ex’s new wife, who is experiencing the same struggles she once endured, despite her powerlessness to intervene.
This reading material is not for the faint of heart. Gaslighting is a serious issue, as is any form of domestic abuse. As I delved into this book, I gained valuable insights into real-life social media scenarios where gaslighting has had a profound impact on individuals.
This literary work presents a perplexing coincidence for Lucy. She had been drawn to a man she encountered at the airport, even engaging in some flirtatious conversation with him. After all, he was an unfamiliar individual, someone she would never have the opportunity to meet again. However, she is utterly astounded when the two individuals cross paths in Starshine Cove. Reuniting with this stranger, named Josh, exacerbates Lucy’s panic attacks, as she finds it utterly improbable that she would ever be able to trust another man in the same manner.
As an avid enthusiast of reading series, it is uncommon for me to read books out of order. However, due to time constraints, I was unable to read the first two books. Fortunately, this novel flowed exceptionally well as a standalone work, while undoubtedly incorporating recurring characters from the first two books in the series. Having now completed Finding Hope in Starshine Cove I have made it my firm intention to follow subsequent books in this series, as this novel left me with a strong desire for more.
Many thanks to Storm Publishing and to NetGalley for this ARC for review. This is my honest opinion.
March 26, 2024
From the cover: A heartwarming story of friendship, new beginnings, and second chances that will have you reaching for the tissues!
Finding Hope in Starshine Cove is a quick read, with plenty of humor, adventure and light romance to keep you engaged. Lucy Brown and her daughter Rose live in Ireland, but journey to the south part of England (Starshine Cove) for her college friend Ella’s wedding. Lucy has been living and working remotely for years after leaving London and a traumatic marriage.
Early in the book Lucy meets a handsome stranger at an airport bar, where she pretends to be a confident, flirtatious, successful woman. When she bumps into Josh later as her “real” self, he is furious that she lied and she is very embarrassed. The attraction between them is strong, so they manage to patch things up and start a friendship getting to know each other.
This story has old friends reconnecting, a beautiful wedding, and even turmoil when Lucy and her daughter help her ex-husband’s wife and children. Lucy has emotional baggage that she needs to work through before starting a new relationship, and Josh turns out to be a very understanding man.
This is my first adventure into Starshine Cove, and what a lovely setting for this story! It made me want to find a real place like this to vacation! This is a perfect book to take on vacation, however be cautious as it may be a trigger for anyone who has experienced domestic mental and emotional abuse.
My thanks to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC.
#FindingHopeInStarshineCove #NetGalley
Finding Hope in Starshine Cove is a quick read, with plenty of humor, adventure and light romance to keep you engaged. Lucy Brown and her daughter Rose live in Ireland, but journey to the south part of England (Starshine Cove) for her college friend Ella’s wedding. Lucy has been living and working remotely for years after leaving London and a traumatic marriage.
Early in the book Lucy meets a handsome stranger at an airport bar, where she pretends to be a confident, flirtatious, successful woman. When she bumps into Josh later as her “real” self, he is furious that she lied and she is very embarrassed. The attraction between them is strong, so they manage to patch things up and start a friendship getting to know each other.
This story has old friends reconnecting, a beautiful wedding, and even turmoil when Lucy and her daughter help her ex-husband’s wife and children. Lucy has emotional baggage that she needs to work through before starting a new relationship, and Josh turns out to be a very understanding man.
This is my first adventure into Starshine Cove, and what a lovely setting for this story! It made me want to find a real place like this to vacation! This is a perfect book to take on vacation, however be cautious as it may be a trigger for anyone who has experienced domestic mental and emotional abuse.
My thanks to Storm Publishing and NetGalley for this ARC.
#FindingHopeInStarshineCove #NetGalley
April 22, 2024
Lucy took her daughter to Ireland to escape from her domineering husband, he also had been having an affair which was the last straw. Going forward 10 years she is travelling via London to pick up her daughter from her ex's for her friend's wedding in Starshine Cove. Arriving there she is welcomed with open arms by her friends and the locals but is surprised to bump into someone she met on the way and maybe had told a little fib to.
Again this book is like being welcomed into a virtual hug, to a place so unlikely to exist in real life but one I dream of moving to. Lucy is suffering from panic attacks, something that I have also experienced, but is gradually recovering in this friendly environment. This doesn't affect the overall feel of the book, which is overwhelmingly positive. If you loved The Comfort Food Cafe series you'll love this, and if you haven't read those I also strongly suggest that you read those as well.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
Again this book is like being welcomed into a virtual hug, to a place so unlikely to exist in real life but one I dream of moving to. Lucy is suffering from panic attacks, something that I have also experienced, but is gradually recovering in this friendly environment. This doesn't affect the overall feel of the book, which is overwhelmingly positive. If you loved The Comfort Food Cafe series you'll love this, and if you haven't read those I also strongly suggest that you read those as well.
I received an advance copy of this book from the publisher through Netgalley, however this did not influence my review of the book.
March 22, 2024
This is book #3 in the Starshine Cove series. Whilst it is part of a series it can easily be read as a standalone book. We returned to the magical Starshine Cove where we meet Lucy Brown and her teenage daughter, Rose. They have ventured to the Cove to attend the wedding of Lucy's best friend Ella (who we have met from the previous books). Lucy has been running away from her demons for the last 10 years since her separation from her controlling husband. Starshine Cove has been able to work it's magic in the previous books of the series...can it do the same again for Lucy?
I love this series and was really looking forward to going back to Starshine Cove for another instalment. All the characters from the previous books are here, but don't worry if you haven't read those yet as the characters are so likeable and easy to relate to that you'll think you've know them for years! Lucy is a lovely character and it was really fun getting to know her and her daughter Rose. Of course, she brings with her a lot of emotional baggage and whilst she looks like she copes with it rather well, there are times throughout the book where you see how much it has really affected her. We also get to meet Josh, the brother of the Groom, and he is the complete opposite of what her husband is. I love their friendship and it's obvious that everyone needs a friend like Josh!
The storyline was full of fun and laughter, but with some more serious issues thrown in. There are some emotional moments but it is mainly a light-hearted and heart-warming read! I loved going back to Starshine Cove and I thoroughly enjoyed meeting all the characters again. The hen-party for Ella was so funny and it was lovely to see Lucy reunited with all her best friends. This was such a delightful read and I was so sad for it to finish! I'm really hoping we'll have another trip in a future book! Would recommend! Wonderful!!
I love this series and was really looking forward to going back to Starshine Cove for another instalment. All the characters from the previous books are here, but don't worry if you haven't read those yet as the characters are so likeable and easy to relate to that you'll think you've know them for years! Lucy is a lovely character and it was really fun getting to know her and her daughter Rose. Of course, she brings with her a lot of emotional baggage and whilst she looks like she copes with it rather well, there are times throughout the book where you see how much it has really affected her. We also get to meet Josh, the brother of the Groom, and he is the complete opposite of what her husband is. I love their friendship and it's obvious that everyone needs a friend like Josh!
The storyline was full of fun and laughter, but with some more serious issues thrown in. There are some emotional moments but it is mainly a light-hearted and heart-warming read! I loved going back to Starshine Cove and I thoroughly enjoyed meeting all the characters again. The hen-party for Ella was so funny and it was lovely to see Lucy reunited with all her best friends. This was such a delightful read and I was so sad for it to finish! I'm really hoping we'll have another trip in a future book! Would recommend! Wonderful!!
April 19, 2024
This is a sweet, heartwarming, touching and fun story. 10 years after her divorce from an emotionally abusive man, Lucy is still afraid of anyone controlling her. But, she's built a safe life for herself and her daughter and reunited with old friends. Lucy and her daughter attend the wedding of one of those old friends in Starshine Cove, where she finds an outpouring of love, support, kindness and a sense of belonging, along with a little romance.
A delightful, easy read that makes me want to move to Starshine Cove!
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
A delightful, easy read that makes me want to move to Starshine Cove!
Thanks to Netgalley, the publisher and the author for a free copy in exchange for an honest review.
March 13, 2024
There's something magical about Starshine Cove, a tiny town in Cornwall. It's impossible to find on a map, but it's filled with residents who support each other and welcome anyone lucky enough to find the town with open arms. In the third in the Starshine Cove series, Finding Hope in Starshine Cove, it's single mom Lucy who travels from her current home in rural Ireland to the Dorset village, along with her 16-year-old daughter, Rose. She's there to reunite with physician Ella and two of her other university friends on the occasion of Ella's wedding. But wouldn't you know it--Josh, a man with whom Lucy had a flirtatious encounter at an airport (under an assumed name and persona), is the groom's brother.
This is not primarily a love story, although Lucy and Josh warm to each other as the story progresses. It's really more about domestic psychological abuse from Lucy's ex-husband Robert. Lucy left Robert 10 years ago with young Rose after Robert had stripped her of all confidence in herself and isolated her from her family and friends. It was only when he started an affair with Lyssa that Lucy was able to flee, but Rose still visits her father in London periodically. Now it seems that Lyssa, Robert's second wife, is suffering the same abuse and trying to find a way out of the situation for herself and their three children.
The author excels in her descriptions at both ends of the spectrum-- evocative, beautifully depicted details about Starshine Cove and its inhabitants on one hand and, on the other, the harsh realities of how psychological abuse by a spouse can ruin someone's life. Lucy's daughter Rose is the standout character for me. She is a delightful mixture of teenaged angst and mature emotional intelligence, and her take on her mother's self-limited life is enlightening. There are characters from the previous two books that appear, but it's not necessary to have read those books to appreciate and understand this one. Best of all, readers of the series will realize that there will always be a happy ending, even if it's not the one we expect.
My review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy of the book.
This is not primarily a love story, although Lucy and Josh warm to each other as the story progresses. It's really more about domestic psychological abuse from Lucy's ex-husband Robert. Lucy left Robert 10 years ago with young Rose after Robert had stripped her of all confidence in herself and isolated her from her family and friends. It was only when he started an affair with Lyssa that Lucy was able to flee, but Rose still visits her father in London periodically. Now it seems that Lyssa, Robert's second wife, is suffering the same abuse and trying to find a way out of the situation for herself and their three children.
The author excels in her descriptions at both ends of the spectrum-- evocative, beautifully depicted details about Starshine Cove and its inhabitants on one hand and, on the other, the harsh realities of how psychological abuse by a spouse can ruin someone's life. Lucy's daughter Rose is the standout character for me. She is a delightful mixture of teenaged angst and mature emotional intelligence, and her take on her mother's self-limited life is enlightening. There are characters from the previous two books that appear, but it's not necessary to have read those books to appreciate and understand this one. Best of all, readers of the series will realize that there will always be a happy ending, even if it's not the one we expect.
My review is based on a complimentary pre-release copy of the book.
October 3, 2025
That was an emotional and hard but beautiful read!
January 8, 2025
4.5! Another super cute and cosy installment in this series. I want to live in this village!!
April 29, 2024
Lucy Brown lives a very small life with her teenage daughter Rose. She has a run-down little cottage in Ireland, a job in a call centre, and a small circle of friends. By and large that's the way she likes it after escaping her abusive ex-husband Robert. Sitting in the airport bar one day, waiting for a delayed flight to London to collect Rose from a visit with Robert and his new family before they go on to Dorset for a friend's wedding, Lucy is dreaming up stories about the other passengers when a gorgeous man asks if the seat next to her is taken. Maybe because she has just been wondering what the other passengers would dream up about her, Lucy fibs to this stranger, telling him her name is Amelia and making up a glamourous sounding career.
Lucy's friend Ella is marrying Jake, the man she met at Starshine Cove, a charming village which doesn't appear to exist on any maps and has a Brigadoon-like quality. Ella and Jake were the protagonists in the first book in this series Escape to Starshine Cove. They are having a great time until Jake's brother Josh turns up, who turns out to be none other than the handsome man Lucy met at the airport!
Many apologies later, Lucy and Josh have made peace and found that there is still a chemistry between them, they almost kiss at Ella's wedding ceilidh when Rose interrupts them, Robert's second wife has called asking for Lucy's help.
I enjoyed this, it was classical Debbie Johnson. Lucy needs to learn to trust herself and let go of her fears from the past before she can trust herself to love again. Josh is just the perfect man, kind, generous, caring, supportive. If I had any complaint it would be that maybe there wasn't enough tension, if a book containing an abusive ex-husband can be called 'safe' then this is it.
But generally a lovely heart-warming feel-good romance. Definitely Hallmark movie material.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
Available on Kindle Unlimited.
Bumped for release.
Lucy's friend Ella is marrying Jake, the man she met at Starshine Cove, a charming village which doesn't appear to exist on any maps and has a Brigadoon-like quality. Ella and Jake were the protagonists in the first book in this series Escape to Starshine Cove. They are having a great time until Jake's brother Josh turns up, who turns out to be none other than the handsome man Lucy met at the airport!
Many apologies later, Lucy and Josh have made peace and found that there is still a chemistry between them, they almost kiss at Ella's wedding ceilidh when Rose interrupts them, Robert's second wife has called asking for Lucy's help.
I enjoyed this, it was classical Debbie Johnson. Lucy needs to learn to trust herself and let go of her fears from the past before she can trust herself to love again. Josh is just the perfect man, kind, generous, caring, supportive. If I had any complaint it would be that maybe there wasn't enough tension, if a book containing an abusive ex-husband can be called 'safe' then this is it.
But generally a lovely heart-warming feel-good romance. Definitely Hallmark movie material.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
Available on Kindle Unlimited.
Bumped for release.
August 11, 2025
Lucy Brown has been avoiding her past for years, seeking refuge far from her old life and her ex-husband Robert. Reluctantly, she agrees to attend her friend Ella's wedding in Starshine Cove, Dorset. Little does she know, this trip will unravel unexpected connections and stir up long-buried emotions. An encounter with a charming stranger at the airport sparks something deeper, turning Lucy's simple holiday into a journey of self-discovery. But just as she starts to embrace the possibilities of the present, her haunting past resurfaces, threatening to shatter the newfound happiness. As Lucy grapples with her past and present colliding, she wonders if the enchanting aura of Starshine Cove can mend her broken heart or if she's finally met her match in this seaside village.
This book is really sweet, to put it simply. It grabbed my attention from the very beginning, starting off with Lucy pretending to be someone else when talking to a handsome stranger at the airport, thinking she'll never see him again, sort of her alter ego. Lucy initially seems to be doing great considering the trauma she has from her ex-husband. I haven't come across many books that depict both the good and bad sides of narcissism, and how critical it can sometimes be. From the beginning, the characters are well-characterised, with the main character, Lucy, explaining her feelings and thoughts, which is often relatable. I like the small love story that isn't the main focus of this book; it complements it perfectly. I definitely recommend reading this book if you want something light and quick to read. This book is the third in the "Starshine Cove" series, it's the first one I've read from this series, which means it can be read as a standalone, nothing is missing in terms of context. The book drew me in so much that I'll definitely read the rest of the series. I hope there will be more books in this series, Starshine Cove seems like a very sweet and accessible little village.
*Thank you to NetGalley, to the author, Debbie Johnson, for providing me with this e-copy in exchange for an honest review.*
This book is really sweet, to put it simply. It grabbed my attention from the very beginning, starting off with Lucy pretending to be someone else when talking to a handsome stranger at the airport, thinking she'll never see him again, sort of her alter ego. Lucy initially seems to be doing great considering the trauma she has from her ex-husband. I haven't come across many books that depict both the good and bad sides of narcissism, and how critical it can sometimes be. From the beginning, the characters are well-characterised, with the main character, Lucy, explaining her feelings and thoughts, which is often relatable. I like the small love story that isn't the main focus of this book; it complements it perfectly. I definitely recommend reading this book if you want something light and quick to read. This book is the third in the "Starshine Cove" series, it's the first one I've read from this series, which means it can be read as a standalone, nothing is missing in terms of context. The book drew me in so much that I'll definitely read the rest of the series. I hope there will be more books in this series, Starshine Cove seems like a very sweet and accessible little village.
*Thank you to NetGalley, to the author, Debbie Johnson, for providing me with this e-copy in exchange for an honest review.*
March 30, 2025
3.5 stars. Another very entertaining story in this series.
I'm really enjoying this new series by Debbie Johnson. If you liked her "Comfort Food Cafe" series with all the great, quirky characters, than I think you'll enjoy these books as well.
I'm really enjoying this new series by Debbie Johnson. If you liked her "Comfort Food Cafe" series with all the great, quirky characters, than I think you'll enjoy these books as well.
April 3, 2024
Publication Date: 24th April 2024
3.7 Stars
One Liner: Heartwarming but a bit heavy
Lucy Brown has been in hiding for a decade, thanks to her ex. However, she finally ventures out to meet her best friends and attend a wedding in the small town of Starshine Cove. The trip proved to be a great decision for her and her sixteen-year-old daughter, Rose.
But then, Lucy is stunned to see a man she impulsively flirted with at the airport and gave a fake name. They seem to have a connection, but Lucy is a long way from healing. With the past threatening to spill, Lucy has to decide what she needs from her life.
The story comes in Lucy’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts:
The book works well as a standalone despite the presence of recurring characters. They are the supporting cast and enhance the plotline.
This is a heavier book than it appears to be. It deals with psychological domestic abuse and its after-effects on the victims. Lucy has panic attacks, and there’s another character going through a similar phase. The book is not exactly a light read, though it has many sweet and humorous moments. It can be triggering to some readers.
Now, that’s done, I have to admit that the author writes teenagers very well. Rose is a doll! She is childish but mature, composed but dramatic, stable and reliable, but prone to sulking. In short, she is easy to love and relate to (though I haven’t been a teen for a while). Rose is my favorite character in the book.
Lucy’s narration takes some time to get used to. She is frantic and rambles, the result of living with a controlling spouse. However, we don’t know this at the beginning, and the first chapter has her monologue, which made my eyes glaze. NGL, I was worried about where it would go. Fortunately, there's a reason for it. We can get used to her thought process.
Starshive Cove is a beautiful place, and we are once again transported to an almost magical land with kind and helpful neighbors. This book is set in spring, so the flowers have started to bloom!
Josh is an adorable guy. The adults act like adults and can communicate, so that’s a big plus. The romance is a side track and has low steam.
Lucy and Rose also have meaningful conversations, which I like.
I knew there would be a third-act breakup, but it doesn’t happen until around 93%, which is too late, IMO. That leads to an HFN ending, which is okay since this is a series, and we’ll meet the characters again. However, I am disappointed that Lucy’s self-healing journey doesn’t come across clearly.
When the FMC calls herself a mess for most of the book in feel-good fiction, I have the right to hope she would realize and openly acknowledge that doesn’t define her. Circumstances forcing her to be stronger is not the same as self-healing, which Lucy needs. I don’t want to say more, as they’ll be spoilers.
The pacing is on the slower side due to the topics handled. Since these are important social aspects and are well-handled (as far as I know), I didn’t mind the slow pace much.
To summarize, Finding Hope in Starshine Cove is a heartwarming story with likable characters and a lovely setting. It has dogs and kids, too, so yay!
Thank you, NetGalley and Storm Publishing, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #FindingHopeInStarshineCove
***
Extra:
I’d like to thank the author for handling the henna scene carefully. I appreciate the inclusion of the question about cultural appropriation.
It came at a time when I also found out about how Holi is being termed a South Asian (what is that even!) festival. Please read this piece to know more.
Holi, Yoga, Oman, Carnatic music, etc., are Hindu. Our pagan gods and rituals are the roots of these and will continue to be. There is no such thing as South Asian ethnicity, where several cultures lose their identities to form a single convenient group.
3.7 Stars
One Liner: Heartwarming but a bit heavy
Lucy Brown has been in hiding for a decade, thanks to her ex. However, she finally ventures out to meet her best friends and attend a wedding in the small town of Starshine Cove. The trip proved to be a great decision for her and her sixteen-year-old daughter, Rose.
But then, Lucy is stunned to see a man she impulsively flirted with at the airport and gave a fake name. They seem to have a connection, but Lucy is a long way from healing. With the past threatening to spill, Lucy has to decide what she needs from her life.
The story comes in Lucy’s first-person POV.
My Thoughts:
The book works well as a standalone despite the presence of recurring characters. They are the supporting cast and enhance the plotline.
This is a heavier book than it appears to be. It deals with psychological domestic abuse and its after-effects on the victims. Lucy has panic attacks, and there’s another character going through a similar phase. The book is not exactly a light read, though it has many sweet and humorous moments. It can be triggering to some readers.
Now, that’s done, I have to admit that the author writes teenagers very well. Rose is a doll! She is childish but mature, composed but dramatic, stable and reliable, but prone to sulking. In short, she is easy to love and relate to (though I haven’t been a teen for a while). Rose is my favorite character in the book.
Lucy’s narration takes some time to get used to. She is frantic and rambles, the result of living with a controlling spouse. However, we don’t know this at the beginning, and the first chapter has her monologue, which made my eyes glaze. NGL, I was worried about where it would go. Fortunately, there's a reason for it. We can get used to her thought process.
Starshive Cove is a beautiful place, and we are once again transported to an almost magical land with kind and helpful neighbors. This book is set in spring, so the flowers have started to bloom!
Josh is an adorable guy. The adults act like adults and can communicate, so that’s a big plus. The romance is a side track and has low steam.
Lucy and Rose also have meaningful conversations, which I like.
I knew there would be a third-act breakup, but it doesn’t happen until around 93%, which is too late, IMO. That leads to an HFN ending, which is okay since this is a series, and we’ll meet the characters again. However, I am disappointed that Lucy’s self-healing journey doesn’t come across clearly.
When the FMC calls herself a mess for most of the book in feel-good fiction, I have the right to hope she would realize and openly acknowledge that doesn’t define her. Circumstances forcing her to be stronger is not the same as self-healing, which Lucy needs. I don’t want to say more, as they’ll be spoilers.
The pacing is on the slower side due to the topics handled. Since these are important social aspects and are well-handled (as far as I know), I didn’t mind the slow pace much.
To summarize, Finding Hope in Starshine Cove is a heartwarming story with likable characters and a lovely setting. It has dogs and kids, too, so yay!
Thank you, NetGalley and Storm Publishing, for eARC. This review is voluntary and contains my honest opinion about the book.
#NetGalley #FindingHopeInStarshineCove
***
Extra:
I’d like to thank the author for handling the henna scene carefully. I appreciate the inclusion of the question about cultural appropriation.
It came at a time when I also found out about how Holi is being termed a South Asian (what is that even!) festival. Please read this piece to know more.
Holi, Yoga, Oman, Carnatic music, etc., are Hindu. Our pagan gods and rituals are the roots of these and will continue to be. There is no such thing as South Asian ethnicity, where several cultures lose their identities to form a single convenient group.
April 4, 2024
Reading any book in Debbie Johnson’s Starshine Cove series is like being wrapped up in a warm hug. It’s a magical place by the sea full of handmade, decorative fairies and a group of kind-hearted villagers who are like real fairy godmothers, coming together to support and protect the people they care about, even if they’re only visiting.
Possible spoilers:
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In this third installment, we are introduced to Lucy when she serendipitously meets Josh at the Dublin airport on her way to her college friend Ella’s wedding. (Ella and Jake are the couple from Book 1, Escape to Starshine Cove.) One of the things she loves to do while waiting for her flight is imagine scenarios for the people around her, so it’s little surprise that, when she meets the handsome Josh, she pretends to be the worldly, put-together security consultant Amelia on her way to New York, not plain old Lucy heading to Dorset by way of London. What she doesn’t expect is that Josh will be attending the same wedding. After an initial embarrassing and angry encounter (Josh hates liars), she apologizes, and they start to get to know each other.
Although just about everybody approaching their forties carries baggage, Lucy’s first marriage to the verbally and emotionally abusive Robert has left her with lingering trauma and insecurities a decade later. However, Starshine Cove has a way of casting a spell on the people who visit and are in need of a do-over. Will Lucy, with the support of her 16-year-old daughter Rose (who wants to move there permanently) and her old and newfound friends, be able to leave the safety of her isolated Irish home and find the courage to start over, especially after his 2nd wife reaches out to her on the day of the wedding, asking for her help in escaping with her children, thus putting her in Robert’s sights again?
Finding Hope in Starshine Cove can be read as a standalone, but there are many characters from the first two books who feature prominently, and knowing their back stories enhances the experience of reading this one. Although there is a closed-door, slow burn romance between Lucy and Josh, much of the focus is also on both Lucy’s friendship with her 3 college friends she lost touch with (thanks to Robert’s narcissistic abusive tactics), and the effects of that abuse on both Lucy and Lyssa, the second wife. Just reading about it caused my heart to start racing, so it’s definitely a trigger warning for those who’ve been in abusive relationships. Despite this, there is much humor, light-heartedness and hope for the future. Highly recommended!
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from Storm Publishing through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
Possible spoilers:
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In this third installment, we are introduced to Lucy when she serendipitously meets Josh at the Dublin airport on her way to her college friend Ella’s wedding. (Ella and Jake are the couple from Book 1, Escape to Starshine Cove.) One of the things she loves to do while waiting for her flight is imagine scenarios for the people around her, so it’s little surprise that, when she meets the handsome Josh, she pretends to be the worldly, put-together security consultant Amelia on her way to New York, not plain old Lucy heading to Dorset by way of London. What she doesn’t expect is that Josh will be attending the same wedding. After an initial embarrassing and angry encounter (Josh hates liars), she apologizes, and they start to get to know each other.
Although just about everybody approaching their forties carries baggage, Lucy’s first marriage to the verbally and emotionally abusive Robert has left her with lingering trauma and insecurities a decade later. However, Starshine Cove has a way of casting a spell on the people who visit and are in need of a do-over. Will Lucy, with the support of her 16-year-old daughter Rose (who wants to move there permanently) and her old and newfound friends, be able to leave the safety of her isolated Irish home and find the courage to start over, especially after his 2nd wife reaches out to her on the day of the wedding, asking for her help in escaping with her children, thus putting her in Robert’s sights again?
Finding Hope in Starshine Cove can be read as a standalone, but there are many characters from the first two books who feature prominently, and knowing their back stories enhances the experience of reading this one. Although there is a closed-door, slow burn romance between Lucy and Josh, much of the focus is also on both Lucy’s friendship with her 3 college friends she lost touch with (thanks to Robert’s narcissistic abusive tactics), and the effects of that abuse on both Lucy and Lyssa, the second wife. Just reading about it caused my heart to start racing, so it’s definitely a trigger warning for those who’ve been in abusive relationships. Despite this, there is much humor, light-heartedness and hope for the future. Highly recommended!
I received a complimentary ARC of this book from Storm Publishing through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. Opinions expressed are completely my own.
March 31, 2024
I loved being back in Starshine Cove. It felt like a reunion with old friends and was lovely to meet all of the newcomers.
Lucy Brown is a single mother to 16 year old Rose and lives in a remote area of Ireland. She has a fractious relationship with Rose’s father to say the least and he has left her with a lot of issues.
Lucy and Rose are off to Starshine Cove for Ella’s wedding to Jake. Lucy is travelling on her own to London to pick up Rose who is visiting her father. In the airport she plays a game where she makes up stories in her head about her fellow travellers. As she is doing so, she meets Josh and thinks he must be a male model or something similar. She decides to have a little fun and becomes ‘Amelia’ a confident, high-flyer off to New York (complete opposite of Lucy) and flirts with Josh. She thinks there is no harm as it’s just a bit of harmless fun but little does she know she will encounter him again!
Lucy and Rose are bowled over by the kindness and friendliness of the locals in Starshine Cove and Lucy is delighted, but a bit apprehensive, to meet up with her old friends Ella, Priya and Katie.
They soon settle into life in Starshine Cove and surrounded by so many lovely people soon Lucy learns to relax a little and how to smile again. When Rose’s stepmother (Lyssa) contacts Rose and Lucy for help, they don’t hesitate to do so even though it means opening up old wounds. The villagers rally round too and are soon providing a safe haven for Lyssa and her children.
Another fantastic heart-warming story from Debbie Johnson which has a few darker moments. I thoroughly recommend you give this book a read.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced read copy of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
Lucy Brown is a single mother to 16 year old Rose and lives in a remote area of Ireland. She has a fractious relationship with Rose’s father to say the least and he has left her with a lot of issues.
Lucy and Rose are off to Starshine Cove for Ella’s wedding to Jake. Lucy is travelling on her own to London to pick up Rose who is visiting her father. In the airport she plays a game where she makes up stories in her head about her fellow travellers. As she is doing so, she meets Josh and thinks he must be a male model or something similar. She decides to have a little fun and becomes ‘Amelia’ a confident, high-flyer off to New York (complete opposite of Lucy) and flirts with Josh. She thinks there is no harm as it’s just a bit of harmless fun but little does she know she will encounter him again!
Lucy and Rose are bowled over by the kindness and friendliness of the locals in Starshine Cove and Lucy is delighted, but a bit apprehensive, to meet up with her old friends Ella, Priya and Katie.
They soon settle into life in Starshine Cove and surrounded by so many lovely people soon Lucy learns to relax a little and how to smile again. When Rose’s stepmother (Lyssa) contacts Rose and Lucy for help, they don’t hesitate to do so even though it means opening up old wounds. The villagers rally round too and are soon providing a safe haven for Lyssa and her children.
Another fantastic heart-warming story from Debbie Johnson which has a few darker moments. I thoroughly recommend you give this book a read.
Thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an advanced read copy of this book in exchange for an honest and unbiased review.
April 20, 2024
★ 3.5 stars.
"Finding Hope in Starshine Cove" by Debbie Johnson takes readers on a journey to the picturesque village of Starshine Cove, where old friendships are rekindled and new connections are made. Lucy Brown, our protagonist, finds herself confronting her past and navigating the complexities of starting over in a place that holds both beauty and healing.
Johnson's depiction of Starshine Cove is enchanting, painting a vivid picture of a quaint seaside village that feels like a character in its own right. From the charming locals to the breathtaking scenery, the setting serves as the perfect backdrop for Lucy's emotional journey.
At the heart of the story is Lucy's struggle to overcome the scars of her past, particularly her experiences with psychological abuse. Johnson handles this delicate subject matter with sensitivity, highlighting the impact it has had on Lucy and those around her. Lucy's daughter, Rose, emerges as a standout character, offering both wisdom beyond her years and moments of teenage rebellion.
While the romance between Lucy and Josh provides a delightful subplot, the real focus of the story is Lucy's journey toward self-discovery and healing. Although the pacing may feel slow at times, particularly due to the weighty themes addressed, the payoff is worth it as Lucy learns to find hope and happiness in Starshine Cove.
Overall, "Finding Hope in Starshine Cove" is a heartwarming tale that balances light-hearted moments with deeper emotional resonance. With its charming setting, relatable characters, and themes of resilience and renewal, it's sure to captivate readers looking for a feel-good read.
Thank you NetGalley for the free ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
#FindingHopeinStarshineCove #NetGalley
"Finding Hope in Starshine Cove" by Debbie Johnson takes readers on a journey to the picturesque village of Starshine Cove, where old friendships are rekindled and new connections are made. Lucy Brown, our protagonist, finds herself confronting her past and navigating the complexities of starting over in a place that holds both beauty and healing.
Johnson's depiction of Starshine Cove is enchanting, painting a vivid picture of a quaint seaside village that feels like a character in its own right. From the charming locals to the breathtaking scenery, the setting serves as the perfect backdrop for Lucy's emotional journey.
At the heart of the story is Lucy's struggle to overcome the scars of her past, particularly her experiences with psychological abuse. Johnson handles this delicate subject matter with sensitivity, highlighting the impact it has had on Lucy and those around her. Lucy's daughter, Rose, emerges as a standout character, offering both wisdom beyond her years and moments of teenage rebellion.
While the romance between Lucy and Josh provides a delightful subplot, the real focus of the story is Lucy's journey toward self-discovery and healing. Although the pacing may feel slow at times, particularly due to the weighty themes addressed, the payoff is worth it as Lucy learns to find hope and happiness in Starshine Cove.
Overall, "Finding Hope in Starshine Cove" is a heartwarming tale that balances light-hearted moments with deeper emotional resonance. With its charming setting, relatable characters, and themes of resilience and renewal, it's sure to captivate readers looking for a feel-good read.
Thank you NetGalley for the free ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review!
#FindingHopeinStarshineCove #NetGalley
April 26, 2024
Finding Hope in Starshine Cove by Debbie Johnson
A BRAND NEW totally uplifting romance that will make you smile
Book 3 of 3: Starshine Cove
A heartwarming story of friendship, new beginnings, and second chances that will have you reaching for the tissues!
Lucy Brown has spent years hiding from the world, as far away as she could get from her old life – and her ex-husband – back in London. But when she reluctantly agrees to leave her safe haven to attend her old friend Ella’s wedding in Starshine Cove, little does she know what’s in store for her down in Dorset…
When a chance airport encounter with a handsome stranger unexpectedly leads to a deeper connection, Lucy finds her trip becoming much more than just a last-minute holiday. But then her dark past comes knocking, just as she always feared it would. Will the magic of Starshine Cove be enough to heal the hurts that Lucy has carried with her all these years, or has this one-of-a-kind village by the sea finally met its match?
This is Lucy Brown and daughter,Rose's story.
This is Josh's story.
Single mum, Lucy Brown is at the airport with her teenage daughter, Rose. Both are travelling to Starshine Cove where they are to attend the wedding of her friend, Ella.
Lucy is looking forward to reuniting with her friends again and having a good vacation with her daughter.
Lucy's friend Ella is marrying Jake, the man she met at Starshine Cove.
Josh is related to the groom.
Josh is the man Lucy met at the airport!
Finding Hope in Starshine Cove by Debbie Johnson is 4 star book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Escape to Starshine Cove (Starshine Cove, #1)
Secrets of Starshine Cove (Starshine Cove, #2)
Finding Hope in Starshine Cove (Starshine Cove, #3)
A BRAND NEW totally uplifting romance that will make you smile
Book 3 of 3: Starshine Cove
A heartwarming story of friendship, new beginnings, and second chances that will have you reaching for the tissues!
Lucy Brown has spent years hiding from the world, as far away as she could get from her old life – and her ex-husband – back in London. But when she reluctantly agrees to leave her safe haven to attend her old friend Ella’s wedding in Starshine Cove, little does she know what’s in store for her down in Dorset…
When a chance airport encounter with a handsome stranger unexpectedly leads to a deeper connection, Lucy finds her trip becoming much more than just a last-minute holiday. But then her dark past comes knocking, just as she always feared it would. Will the magic of Starshine Cove be enough to heal the hurts that Lucy has carried with her all these years, or has this one-of-a-kind village by the sea finally met its match?
This is Lucy Brown and daughter,Rose's story.
This is Josh's story.
Single mum, Lucy Brown is at the airport with her teenage daughter, Rose. Both are travelling to Starshine Cove where they are to attend the wedding of her friend, Ella.
Lucy is looking forward to reuniting with her friends again and having a good vacation with her daughter.
Lucy's friend Ella is marrying Jake, the man she met at Starshine Cove.
Josh is related to the groom.
Josh is the man Lucy met at the airport!
Finding Hope in Starshine Cove by Debbie Johnson is 4 star book.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
Escape to Starshine Cove (Starshine Cove, #1)
Secrets of Starshine Cove (Starshine Cove, #2)
Finding Hope in Starshine Cove (Starshine Cove, #3)
April 7, 2024
I received an ARC from the publisher in exchange for an honest review
Finding Hope in Starshine Cove is a contemporary romance novel following Lucy, a forty-year-old single mother still healing from her abusive relationship with her former husband. When Lucy’s friend gets engaged, Lucy heads to Starshine Cove in the UK for the wedding when she meets Josh and claims she’s flying to New York instead, with the assumption that she is never going to see him again. Before the wedding, she meets the groom’s brother aka Josh.
The first third of the novel is Lucy reconnecting with her friends Ella, Priya, and Katie, while trying to strengthen her relationship with her daughter, Rose. The romance plays a smaller role to the female friendships and is used to explore certain parts of Lucy’s personality, particularly her compulsive lying. We also get a glimpse into her relationship with Lyssa, the woman who married Lucy’s ex-husband and their strained relationship despite Lucy trying to reach out.
After Josh and Lucy reunite, Lucy apologizes for lying to him and the two start a whirlwind relationship as they help Lyssa and her children flee from her husband. What I liked about how these two tied together was in how it showed Josh’s willingness to help others, including complete strangers, and gave Lucy a chance to further grow as a person and take back her life from her abusive ex.
Content warning for depictions of emotional and verbal abuse.
I would recommend this to readers looking for a contemporary romance with middle aged leads, fans of small town contemporary romances, and those looking for protagonists moving on from abusive relationships and finding love.
Finding Hope in Starshine Cove is a contemporary romance novel following Lucy, a forty-year-old single mother still healing from her abusive relationship with her former husband. When Lucy’s friend gets engaged, Lucy heads to Starshine Cove in the UK for the wedding when she meets Josh and claims she’s flying to New York instead, with the assumption that she is never going to see him again. Before the wedding, she meets the groom’s brother aka Josh.
The first third of the novel is Lucy reconnecting with her friends Ella, Priya, and Katie, while trying to strengthen her relationship with her daughter, Rose. The romance plays a smaller role to the female friendships and is used to explore certain parts of Lucy’s personality, particularly her compulsive lying. We also get a glimpse into her relationship with Lyssa, the woman who married Lucy’s ex-husband and their strained relationship despite Lucy trying to reach out.
After Josh and Lucy reunite, Lucy apologizes for lying to him and the two start a whirlwind relationship as they help Lyssa and her children flee from her husband. What I liked about how these two tied together was in how it showed Josh’s willingness to help others, including complete strangers, and gave Lucy a chance to further grow as a person and take back her life from her abusive ex.
Content warning for depictions of emotional and verbal abuse.
I would recommend this to readers looking for a contemporary romance with middle aged leads, fans of small town contemporary romances, and those looking for protagonists moving on from abusive relationships and finding love.
June 13, 2024
I really enjoy the author’s series books. When I first started this, I didn’t even realise that this was to be a series. The book focuses on different people coming into the secret sunshine cove than existing people within the community (although they play a significant role in the plot itself).
In this book, we meet a friend of the first lady to wander into this area in the first book. She has had a tough time moving on with life after her divorce and we are to see how things panned out and why.
I was moved by the concept of hope in this book. Friendships forged long ago as well as those in the nascent stages are tested by trying times and our leading characters are real in their struggle to do the best they can. There are emotional moments as well as some surprisingly humorous moments between sedate and serious conversations.
Life in Starshine cove is ordinary in some ways, while being unique and interesting in others. This time around we have a group of friends who address the time between when they first hung out and the older family women they are now. Given that I have reached a point myself where I do not have the time or even content to talk to old friends like I once did, I could empathize with the situation.
I highly recommend this series to fans of happily-ever-afters, especially when they are hard-fought for and worth the effort. The near mystical setting of Starshine Cove is also a draw. I already have another book by the author on my virtual shelf.
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience of this and the previous books in the series.
In this book, we meet a friend of the first lady to wander into this area in the first book. She has had a tough time moving on with life after her divorce and we are to see how things panned out and why.
I was moved by the concept of hope in this book. Friendships forged long ago as well as those in the nascent stages are tested by trying times and our leading characters are real in their struggle to do the best they can. There are emotional moments as well as some surprisingly humorous moments between sedate and serious conversations.
Life in Starshine cove is ordinary in some ways, while being unique and interesting in others. This time around we have a group of friends who address the time between when they first hung out and the older family women they are now. Given that I have reached a point myself where I do not have the time or even content to talk to old friends like I once did, I could empathize with the situation.
I highly recommend this series to fans of happily-ever-afters, especially when they are hard-fought for and worth the effort. The near mystical setting of Starshine Cove is also a draw. I already have another book by the author on my virtual shelf.
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience of this and the previous books in the series.
March 28, 2024
What another great visit to Starshine Cove. I always leave with a smile and warm fuzzy feeling.
Lucy was very identifiable as a character. She was protecting herself and Rose her daughter, even after she managed to remove herself from the toxic life she had with her ex husband. A safe, familiar, isolated routine helped her cope and survive. Seeing her slowly blossom after arriving at Starshine Cove was almost magical. She finally knew what it was like to be safe and be surrounded by people. To have people who only had her best interests at heart and didn’t define her by her past. It was beautiful, and seeing her daughter be one of those people was amazing. Rose grew up without knowing the true impact her dad on her mum and how she subsequently saw herself and thought about herself, which is a credit to Lucy as she truly suffered in silence and put on a brave face. Rose really helps her mum over come some issues and her step mother and step siblings, she really is a positive person with a big heart.
The whole ‘fake’ story with Josh was really funny and I knew it would come back and bite her, and it did in such a funny way. However, even that showed her that Josh and the people of Starshine Cove were nothing like her ex as they understood and found it funny. There was no negative repercussions only positive support.
From start to finish I loved this book, it was very thought provoking and it gave me comfort that there’s a friendship group for everyone out there, you just have to keep looking.
Lucy was very identifiable as a character. She was protecting herself and Rose her daughter, even after she managed to remove herself from the toxic life she had with her ex husband. A safe, familiar, isolated routine helped her cope and survive. Seeing her slowly blossom after arriving at Starshine Cove was almost magical. She finally knew what it was like to be safe and be surrounded by people. To have people who only had her best interests at heart and didn’t define her by her past. It was beautiful, and seeing her daughter be one of those people was amazing. Rose grew up without knowing the true impact her dad on her mum and how she subsequently saw herself and thought about herself, which is a credit to Lucy as she truly suffered in silence and put on a brave face. Rose really helps her mum over come some issues and her step mother and step siblings, she really is a positive person with a big heart.
The whole ‘fake’ story with Josh was really funny and I knew it would come back and bite her, and it did in such a funny way. However, even that showed her that Josh and the people of Starshine Cove were nothing like her ex as they understood and found it funny. There was no negative repercussions only positive support.
From start to finish I loved this book, it was very thought provoking and it gave me comfort that there’s a friendship group for everyone out there, you just have to keep looking.
October 27, 2025
Just as with the previous book in this series, I absolutely adored this book. Starshine Cove is the most magical place and I want to live there!!!
In this book, we meet Lucy Brown and her daughter, Rose. They find themselves in Starshine Cove for Ella’s wedding, as Lucy and Ella are old friends. They have only recently reconnected, following Lucy’s isolation from her friends at the hands of her ex husband, Robert. Despite being separated from him for ten years now, the emotional scars he left on Lucy still run very deep, and her trust for others is minimal. But this is where Starshine Cove can work its magic, especially when it comes to Lucy meeting the lovely Josh for a second time!!!
The cast of characters were brilliant, Connie really shone through in this one as the most lovely lady, and I must get my hands on her book soon! It was nice to see how Archie & Cally were getting on, and all of the cameos were like seeing old friends.
I think what I really loved about this book was that, whilst there was romance and it was enjoyable, it wasn’t the main story. This was a story of a woman overcoming the emotional abuse she had suffered at the hands of a man for so many years. It was multi layered with lots of emotional depth. The friendships, old and new, were strong and integral to the story, and the sense of family, and not just the one you’re born into but also the one you choose, made this book so incredibly heartwarming.
A fabulous read, I really, really enjoyed it 🤩
In this book, we meet Lucy Brown and her daughter, Rose. They find themselves in Starshine Cove for Ella’s wedding, as Lucy and Ella are old friends. They have only recently reconnected, following Lucy’s isolation from her friends at the hands of her ex husband, Robert. Despite being separated from him for ten years now, the emotional scars he left on Lucy still run very deep, and her trust for others is minimal. But this is where Starshine Cove can work its magic, especially when it comes to Lucy meeting the lovely Josh for a second time!!!
The cast of characters were brilliant, Connie really shone through in this one as the most lovely lady, and I must get my hands on her book soon! It was nice to see how Archie & Cally were getting on, and all of the cameos were like seeing old friends.
I think what I really loved about this book was that, whilst there was romance and it was enjoyable, it wasn’t the main story. This was a story of a woman overcoming the emotional abuse she had suffered at the hands of a man for so many years. It was multi layered with lots of emotional depth. The friendships, old and new, were strong and integral to the story, and the sense of family, and not just the one you’re born into but also the one you choose, made this book so incredibly heartwarming.
A fabulous read, I really, really enjoyed it 🤩
March 21, 2024
“Finding hope in Starshine Cove” touches one of the darkest topics in a beautiful way.
Lucy, is the victim of a psychological abusive marriage, one she was lucky to escape after a few years. Through her, you will witness how years of emotional abuse can shape, change and limit the options of the victim in life. The importance of allowing therapy and love ones to help you in the process is something that could improve a happy outcome.
When Lucy is invited to the wedding of one of her dear friends from college to this beautiful place called Starshine Cove, she will have a second chance to overcome her past and possibly help others in her life while at the same time finding love.
It is incredible how somebody can emotionally isolate a partner from everyone she loves and even from herself. The role everyone can possibly play before, during and after a person looks for help it’s a challenge for everyone involved.
In this book, the author approaches a difficult topic in a way where you could easily understand the frustrations of the victim along with her family and friends and the challenges while trying to survive. I would’ve loved some links where you could find help if you or someone you know is experiencing a similar situation. It was eye opening in my case.
I just reviewed Finding Hope in Starshine Cove by Debbie Johnson. #FindingHopeinStarshineCove i#NetGalley
Lucy, is the victim of a psychological abusive marriage, one she was lucky to escape after a few years. Through her, you will witness how years of emotional abuse can shape, change and limit the options of the victim in life. The importance of allowing therapy and love ones to help you in the process is something that could improve a happy outcome.
When Lucy is invited to the wedding of one of her dear friends from college to this beautiful place called Starshine Cove, she will have a second chance to overcome her past and possibly help others in her life while at the same time finding love.
It is incredible how somebody can emotionally isolate a partner from everyone she loves and even from herself. The role everyone can possibly play before, during and after a person looks for help it’s a challenge for everyone involved.
In this book, the author approaches a difficult topic in a way where you could easily understand the frustrations of the victim along with her family and friends and the challenges while trying to survive. I would’ve loved some links where you could find help if you or someone you know is experiencing a similar situation. It was eye opening in my case.
I just reviewed Finding Hope in Starshine Cove by Debbie Johnson. #FindingHopeinStarshineCove i#NetGalley
May 24, 2024
Mind blowing
What a story Private, it starts with Lucy at the airport people watching. Lucy is making up story's about what type of life they lead. She gets her self a drink & notices josh & ends up having a drink with him, Lucy is shy but her alter ego amellia isn't, when josh asks her what she's doing at the airport, she tells him she's a security specialist and is on her way to new York.
He buys her a mojito, and they chat then she sees her flight is ready, tells josh she needs to go. Lucy is actually on her way to pick her daughter up from the x husbands. Lucy picks up rose and they head to Starshine Cove to meet up with Ella at the bridal shop. Connie picked them up and took them to meet Ella & 2 old friends. Lucy's worried as she hasn't seen their other 2 friends Priya & Katie for 16 years, since her X Robert, alienated her from them with his coercive behaviour. Lucy shouldn't have worried cos it was all good. They all go to sunshine cove to the bar where Ella lives. Lucy & Rose go to where they are staying & settle in well. The girls have their hen night in the bar. The men go paint balling. The men arrive back to the bar and the best man spits Lucy, & asks Amellia why she's not in New York, she's so shocked, Josh is standing in front of her she can't get the words out. Thing get a lot more interesting, complicated, scarry and many more emotions so I'm not going to give any spoilers. I'm just going to say it's an amazing book.
What a story Private, it starts with Lucy at the airport people watching. Lucy is making up story's about what type of life they lead. She gets her self a drink & notices josh & ends up having a drink with him, Lucy is shy but her alter ego amellia isn't, when josh asks her what she's doing at the airport, she tells him she's a security specialist and is on her way to new York.
He buys her a mojito, and they chat then she sees her flight is ready, tells josh she needs to go. Lucy is actually on her way to pick her daughter up from the x husbands. Lucy picks up rose and they head to Starshine Cove to meet up with Ella at the bridal shop. Connie picked them up and took them to meet Ella & 2 old friends. Lucy's worried as she hasn't seen their other 2 friends Priya & Katie for 16 years, since her X Robert, alienated her from them with his coercive behaviour. Lucy shouldn't have worried cos it was all good. They all go to sunshine cove to the bar where Ella lives. Lucy & Rose go to where they are staying & settle in well. The girls have their hen night in the bar. The men go paint balling. The men arrive back to the bar and the best man spits Lucy, & asks Amellia why she's not in New York, she's so shocked, Josh is standing in front of her she can't get the words out. Thing get a lot more interesting, complicated, scarry and many more emotions so I'm not going to give any spoilers. I'm just going to say it's an amazing book.
April 20, 2024
4 stars out of 5.
This is the first book by Debbie Johnson I have read and I really enjoyed it. This is the 3rd book in the series but I felt it read as a standalone. Starshine Cove sounds like an amazing place that I would love to visit! The author does a great job of transporting us there and I thought the book flowed so well. The characters were all likable and I really enjoyed watching Lucy and Josh's relationship bloom. The ending tied everything up nicely too. Overall, this was a heartwarming book and I would recommend it.
In Finding Hope in Starshine Cover, we meet Lucy and her teenage daughter Rose. Lucy was in an abusive relationship with her ex husband (Rose's father) and still finds herself cowering from the world. They end up going to Starshine Cove for Lucy's long time friend's wedding. On the way, Lucy meets a guy named Josh at the airport. She gives him a fake name and back story for fun thinking she would never see him again. Turns out, Josh is the grooms brother who just arrived at Starshine Cove. After explaining herself to Josh, they decide to be civil to get through the wedding. Josh hates liars so he is pretty disappointed and hurt with her actions. As the days go by it seems Lucy and Josh might have a spark but is Lucy ready for a relationship yet?
Thank you Netgalley and Storm Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
This is the first book by Debbie Johnson I have read and I really enjoyed it. This is the 3rd book in the series but I felt it read as a standalone. Starshine Cove sounds like an amazing place that I would love to visit! The author does a great job of transporting us there and I thought the book flowed so well. The characters were all likable and I really enjoyed watching Lucy and Josh's relationship bloom. The ending tied everything up nicely too. Overall, this was a heartwarming book and I would recommend it.
In Finding Hope in Starshine Cover, we meet Lucy and her teenage daughter Rose. Lucy was in an abusive relationship with her ex husband (Rose's father) and still finds herself cowering from the world. They end up going to Starshine Cove for Lucy's long time friend's wedding. On the way, Lucy meets a guy named Josh at the airport. She gives him a fake name and back story for fun thinking she would never see him again. Turns out, Josh is the grooms brother who just arrived at Starshine Cove. After explaining herself to Josh, they decide to be civil to get through the wedding. Josh hates liars so he is pretty disappointed and hurt with her actions. As the days go by it seems Lucy and Josh might have a spark but is Lucy ready for a relationship yet?
Thank you Netgalley and Storm Publishing for this ARC in exchange for my honest review.
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