What do you think?
Rate this book
Coastal Hope #2
Searching for Peace
A woman with a harrowing past. The hero who never breaks a promise.
I’ve wanted nothing to do with Hope Springs, Maine since the moment I turned eighteen and left. It nearly killed me to leave my grandmother behind, but I’d had no choice.
Secrets spread in small towns, and mine are heavy enough to bury me.
After my grandmother dies, I’m forced to return for the first time in eight years.
Unfortunately, trouble has followed me home.
Elijah Breeth—ex-Army Ranger turned private security—is who my grandmother told me to go to last year when I’d had a stalker. I refused then, wanting nothing to do with anyone in this zip code.
Now I have no other choice than to beg the handsome veteran for help.
The problem is, he hates me just as much as I despise this place.
How can I trust him to keep me alive when we can’t be in the same room for ten seconds without wanting to kill each other?
I’ve wanted nothing to do with Hope Springs, Maine since the moment I turned eighteen and left. It nearly killed me to leave my grandmother behind, but I’d had no choice.
Secrets spread in small towns, and mine are heavy enough to bury me.
After my grandmother dies, I’m forced to return for the first time in eight years.
Unfortunately, trouble has followed me home.
Elijah Breeth—ex-Army Ranger turned private security—is who my grandmother told me to go to last year when I’d had a stalker. I refused then, wanting nothing to do with anyone in this zip code.
Now I have no other choice than to beg the handsome veteran for help.
The problem is, he hates me just as much as I despise this place.
How can I trust him to keep me alive when we can’t be in the same room for ten seconds without wanting to kill each other?
364 pages, Kindle Edition
First published May 27, 2024
196 people are currently reading
533 people want to read
About the author
Jessica Ashley
16 books321 followersJessica is an Army veteran who lives in Texas with the love of her life and their three children.
After spending nearly a decade writing spicy paranormal and fantasy romance as a USA Today bestselling author, she felt the desire to do something completely different.
She will still tell heartbreakingly beautiful stories with strong women and protective men, but this time they will also feature the joy of faith, and the importance of following God in whatever journey He sets you on.
After spending nearly a decade writing spicy paranormal and fantasy romance as a USA Today bestselling author, she felt the desire to do something completely different.
She will still tell heartbreakingly beautiful stories with strong women and protective men, but this time they will also feature the joy of faith, and the importance of following God in whatever journey He sets you on.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews
June 8, 2024
I love these characters! They are so broken but constantly seek God. Really great faith content. Fast paced, and a bit crazy. I've been convinced I don't like contemporary romance. This series has changed my mind🥰
May 21, 2024
Jessica Ashley's Searching for Peace transcends the boundaries of typical romantic suspense, offering a deeply moving journey of healing and redemption. Set against the picturesque backdrop of Hope Springs, Maine, this novel captivates from the first page, appealing to fans of heartwarming romances and small-town intrigue.
The story follows Andie Montgomery, who returns to her hometown burdened by past traumas, and Elijah Breeth, a scarred veteran with a gruff exterior but a heart of gold. Their paths intersect, igniting both conflict and connection in a narrative rich in resilience and faith. Andie's introspective journey and Elijah's guarded yet compassionate nature are masterfully portrayed. Their interactions brim with tension and tenderness, making their romance both believable and engaging.
Ashley skillfully navigates themes of guilt, fear, and redemption. Memorable lines such as: "None of us deserve it, Andie…Christ died so that we might find our way into an eternity of peace" echo throughout the narrative, reinforcing the book’s spiritual message. The suspenseful elements keep readers on the edge of their seats with heart-pounding twists. Ashley's writing style is both emotive and precise, ensuring the story flows smoothly while maintaining its emotional depth.
Searching for Peace is an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impact. For readers seeking a story that will make them laugh, cry, and contemplate life's deeper questions, this book is a must-read. With its compelling narrative and unforgettable characters, it's no surprise that Jessica Ashley's latest work will stay with readers long after the last word is read.
I received a digital copy of Searching for Peace from the author. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
The story follows Andie Montgomery, who returns to her hometown burdened by past traumas, and Elijah Breeth, a scarred veteran with a gruff exterior but a heart of gold. Their paths intersect, igniting both conflict and connection in a narrative rich in resilience and faith. Andie's introspective journey and Elijah's guarded yet compassionate nature are masterfully portrayed. Their interactions brim with tension and tenderness, making their romance both believable and engaging.
Ashley skillfully navigates themes of guilt, fear, and redemption. Memorable lines such as: "None of us deserve it, Andie…Christ died so that we might find our way into an eternity of peace" echo throughout the narrative, reinforcing the book’s spiritual message. The suspenseful elements keep readers on the edge of their seats with heart-pounding twists. Ashley's writing style is both emotive and precise, ensuring the story flows smoothly while maintaining its emotional depth.
Searching for Peace is an immersive experience that leaves a lasting impact. For readers seeking a story that will make them laugh, cry, and contemplate life's deeper questions, this book is a must-read. With its compelling narrative and unforgettable characters, it's no surprise that Jessica Ashley's latest work will stay with readers long after the last word is read.
I received a digital copy of Searching for Peace from the author. I am not required to write a positive review in any way or for any reason. My honest and unbiased opinions expressed in this book review are my own. My review focuses on the writing style, the pacing, and the story’s content, ensuring transparency and reliability.
August 15, 2025
I DEVOURED this book in less than 24 hours.
This is one of those stories I've had at my fingertips but never felt like it was the right time to pick up...until yesterday. I read Lance and Eliza's story when it first came out and absolutely adored it, but when this one came out, I hesitated. And waited. And now I know why.
This was the book I needed to read *right now* and I loved every. single. second.
I started it on audio but have the paperback so I dove into it at chapter 12 and never looked back. I stayed up late last night in hopes of finishing but as my eyes fell closed I knew Andie and Elijah would have to wait until today.
The suspense was spectacular, the faith perfectly intertwined, and the romance...chef's kiss: perfection.
They start out as enemies--which I didn't realize and it became a quick pleasant surprise! It was done so well and the way their relationship unfolded was realistic and captivating. Even though Andie's grandma Edna isn't officially on the page, she was a huge part of the story and played a crucial role in their story.
I just loved every second of this fast-paced, swoony, sizzling Christian romantic suspense and highly recommend it to fellow Christian girlies on the hunt for solid Christ-honoring fiction.
RATINGS:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✝️✝️✝️✝️
17+
This is one of those stories I've had at my fingertips but never felt like it was the right time to pick up...until yesterday. I read Lance and Eliza's story when it first came out and absolutely adored it, but when this one came out, I hesitated. And waited. And now I know why.
This was the book I needed to read *right now* and I loved every. single. second.
I started it on audio but have the paperback so I dove into it at chapter 12 and never looked back. I stayed up late last night in hopes of finishing but as my eyes fell closed I knew Andie and Elijah would have to wait until today.
The suspense was spectacular, the faith perfectly intertwined, and the romance...chef's kiss: perfection.
They start out as enemies--which I didn't realize and it became a quick pleasant surprise! It was done so well and the way their relationship unfolded was realistic and captivating. Even though Andie's grandma Edna isn't officially on the page, she was a huge part of the story and played a crucial role in their story.
I just loved every second of this fast-paced, swoony, sizzling Christian romantic suspense and highly recommend it to fellow Christian girlies on the hunt for solid Christ-honoring fiction.
RATINGS:
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
✝️✝️✝️✝️
17+
May 13, 2024
I am really enjoying this series from a new to me author. Books 1 and 2 have been fantastic reads. Searching For Peace was really well done, the mystery kept me guessing, with a couple of jaw dropping surprises. Jessica Ashley has a new fan in me and I am adding her to my must read list for upcoming books from her!
I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my own.
May 1, 2024
I really love the small town trope. Andie and Elijah’s story starts with a funeral and some insta-hate. They’re both private and prickly and it’s a mystery which one is the target. It was definitely a page turner with all the twists and turns. Hope Springs may seem like the perfect place to live but there are some bad people hanging around. Luckily, Knight Security continues keeping everyone safe.
January 28, 2025
I give this book 4 1/2 Stars!
I received an ARC of this book and let me just say this book is amazing. If you like enemies to lovers with suspense this is the book for you. Andie and Elijah are the main characters. It took be a little bit to like Andie but she grew on me. I loved Elijah from the beginning. Andie had a horrible past as well as Elijah. They both had guilt and built walls around themselves. Neither one thought they deserved loved but Gran knew differently. This book had so much suspense in it which I loved. Someone was after Andie and Elijah was going to protect her no matter the cost. I thought I knew who was behind everything but I was proven wrong. The side characters were amazing so now I have to go read the books I haven’t read yet. I am hoping to see more on Andie and Elijah in the next book.
I received an ARC of this book and let me just say this book is amazing. If you like enemies to lovers with suspense this is the book for you. Andie and Elijah are the main characters. It took be a little bit to like Andie but she grew on me. I loved Elijah from the beginning. Andie had a horrible past as well as Elijah. They both had guilt and built walls around themselves. Neither one thought they deserved loved but Gran knew differently. This book had so much suspense in it which I loved. Someone was after Andie and Elijah was going to protect her no matter the cost. I thought I knew who was behind everything but I was proven wrong. The side characters were amazing so now I have to go read the books I haven’t read yet. I am hoping to see more on Andie and Elijah in the next book.
September 28, 2025
Ok I’m sorry but I really didn’t like this 2nd novel. It was overly choppy and did not flow like her 1st one. I didn’t feel the connection between the main characters, it felt forced and underdeveloped. Every wrong thing that happened seemed to be purely for the sake of the speed of the plot but not for the pace it was naturally going. I’m excited to read the rest of the series but this one just fell flat for me. I still really like this author, though!
May 27, 2024
I absolutely loved Elijah & Andies heartachingly beautiful, fiery, sweet, caring, loving, swoony story!!
October 16, 2024
Wonderful story
Wonderful story with great characters, suspense, romance, and faith threads. I enjoyed the tension between the Elijah and Andi who couldn't stand each other at first until they got to know each other. Andi has past trauma, and Elijah, a former Army Ranger, has PTSD.
This story alternates between Elijah's and Andi's point of view and is one of redemption. The plot line is engaging and will keep your attention.
Wonderful story with great characters, suspense, romance, and faith threads. I enjoyed the tension between the Elijah and Andi who couldn't stand each other at first until they got to know each other. Andi has past trauma, and Elijah, a former Army Ranger, has PTSD.
This story alternates between Elijah's and Andi's point of view and is one of redemption. The plot line is engaging and will keep your attention.
July 11, 2025
The second book in the Coast of Hope series. Started the series because I am a few books into the Hunt Security series and wanted to learn more about the firm they work with in Maine.
Unless the books show up on Prime Reading or Kindle Unlimited I am stopping here.
This is a Rinse and Repeat book.
Same plot, new female comes to town, one of the members of the Security firm notice her and within a day or two bad things start happening to her.
I also was irked by Andie’s attitude at the start - she grated on me.
Love the guys - they are great written characters - why do their female leads need to be so thinly written.
Unless the books show up on Prime Reading or Kindle Unlimited I am stopping here.
This is a Rinse and Repeat book.
Same plot, new female comes to town, one of the members of the Security firm notice her and within a day or two bad things start happening to her.
I also was irked by Andie’s attitude at the start - she grated on me.
Love the guys - they are great written characters - why do their female leads need to be so thinly written.
June 5, 2024
This is my first Jessica Ashley’s book. Normally I like to read a series in order but this book was given to me by a friend. She said it was “my type of story” and she was right!!!
Searching for Peace is a fast paced mystery with romance. There’s danger, there’s hot guys, and strong women! The twist at the end for who the “bad guy is”….I didn’t see that coming!
Just for reference this is a very PG romance with lots of ties to faith. If you are looking for a clean, Christian romance, with mystery and danger…..this book is for you!
Now I’m going back to read book 1 of the series and patiently wait for book 3!
Searching for Peace is a fast paced mystery with romance. There’s danger, there’s hot guys, and strong women! The twist at the end for who the “bad guy is”….I didn’t see that coming!
Just for reference this is a very PG romance with lots of ties to faith. If you are looking for a clean, Christian romance, with mystery and danger…..this book is for you!
Now I’m going back to read book 1 of the series and patiently wait for book 3!
May 27, 2024
I received a arc copy of this book. I really enjoy it. I highly recommend this series
June 8, 2024
This book was quite the disappointment. I was looking for a Christian romance book and stumbled upon this book. The author did not have enough material of write this book, it was badly written. Our main character Grandmother dies, when she returns back to her hometown after year of not returning because of her scandalous affair/grooming with her high school teacher. When out MC arrives she meets the MMC (male main character), the MMC was very close with our MC grandmother in the final years of her life. They dont hit it off, and dislike each other until the MC house is trashed and she is forced under his protection since hes an ex-army ranger. Things take a turn from here…
MY PROBLEMS WITH THIS BOOK:
The entire book the author is trying so hard to make her characters have trauma. For example our MC, says rhat she killed her stepfather. But she literally didnt…. she scared him and he had a heart attack and died. But the author was trying to make like it was such a big deal. Similarly our MMC had a troubled childhood because his parents died in a boating accident (which is never expanded on and how it affect him) and he was taken in by his grandmother. During that time he was a underground fighter before he joined the military. (During his tour in the military his platoon is blown up by a IED) and he believes that he shouldve died during that IED because he fought when he was younger. The authors trying make them deep and show they have layyyyyerrrssssss😝😝. They went through thinnnggsss yall!!✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾
PROBLEM #2
My second problem is that the author uses bombs as a way to advance the plot. The characters in this book got bomb like 3x and it was 3x too many. Then the MC gets poisoned. Then the MMC AND MC get attacked and they get a bomb thrown on them. Its just cheap writing.
And the author depiction of God too, I didn’t like. The MMC is a Christian but when he starts developing feelings for our MC God and religion is never discussed. We never see the MC relationship with God really grow she just goes and talks to the pastor.
This book needs so much improvement. 😃🔫
⭐️⭐️
MY PROBLEMS WITH THIS BOOK:
The entire book the author is trying so hard to make her characters have trauma. For example our MC, says rhat she killed her stepfather. But she literally didnt…. she scared him and he had a heart attack and died. But the author was trying to make like it was such a big deal. Similarly our MMC had a troubled childhood because his parents died in a boating accident (which is never expanded on and how it affect him) and he was taken in by his grandmother. During that time he was a underground fighter before he joined the military. (During his tour in the military his platoon is blown up by a IED) and he believes that he shouldve died during that IED because he fought when he was younger. The authors trying make them deep and show they have layyyyyerrrssssss😝😝. They went through thinnnggsss yall!!✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾✊🏾
PROBLEM #2
My second problem is that the author uses bombs as a way to advance the plot. The characters in this book got bomb like 3x and it was 3x too many. Then the MC gets poisoned. Then the MMC AND MC get attacked and they get a bomb thrown on them. Its just cheap writing.
And the author depiction of God too, I didn’t like. The MMC is a Christian but when he starts developing feelings for our MC God and religion is never discussed. We never see the MC relationship with God really grow she just goes and talks to the pastor.
This book needs so much improvement. 😃🔫
⭐️⭐️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 10, 2024
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 5 STARS
✨ They were both lost but they found each other through Christ and they flourished ✨
Want to strengthen your faith? Want a book that will make you sob and remind you how powerful He is? Enemies to lovers? Action? Mystery? This is your sign to read this book!! (P.s I am a romantasy reader so you will enjoy this one)
FAVORITE QUOTES
“Years trying to hide because of the stain of my mistakes was like an acid to my skin”
“It’s easy to allow ourselves to be weighted down by the past. The difficult thing is forgiving ourselves and moving forward.”
“Every single day you let yourself suffer with the loneliness as your own personal punishment is one more day you’re wasting the gift you were given.”
“None of us deserve it, Andie. The Christ died so that we might find our way into an eternity of peace. That doesn’t mean we won’t suffer while we are here. It just means we have a better place reserved for us when we pass from this life..
HONEST REVIEW
I don’t know if it was the Holy Spirit making me feel this way while reading it, but I can’t tell you how many times I was sobbing! It is so beautifully written that you can’t help to find comfort in it. This is the second Christian book that I’ve read in my life, and I am thankful I chose this book because for the past year I’ve been looking for more that takes place around this time and not in the 1900s.
The first Christian book I read was ‘Redeeming Love’ by Francine Rivers and both works made me get closer to Him. So if you loved FR then you will love Jessica’s writing! In here you will be given some verses from the Bible, which extremely helped as someone who’s just recently started reading it.
Also, i did not expect the plot twist! It took me 2 days to finish this book! (After finals week) Yes! It is this powerful! Like I said I love reading suspense, romance and fiction so this fit my description and got a bonus: Christ!!!!!!!
With that being said, ooof I loved Elijah! The bond that was being developed throughout this book was amazing! 🤍🤍🤍
✨ They were both lost but they found each other through Christ and they flourished ✨
Want to strengthen your faith? Want a book that will make you sob and remind you how powerful He is? Enemies to lovers? Action? Mystery? This is your sign to read this book!! (P.s I am a romantasy reader so you will enjoy this one)
FAVORITE QUOTES
“Years trying to hide because of the stain of my mistakes was like an acid to my skin”
“It’s easy to allow ourselves to be weighted down by the past. The difficult thing is forgiving ourselves and moving forward.”
“Every single day you let yourself suffer with the loneliness as your own personal punishment is one more day you’re wasting the gift you were given.”
“None of us deserve it, Andie. The Christ died so that we might find our way into an eternity of peace. That doesn’t mean we won’t suffer while we are here. It just means we have a better place reserved for us when we pass from this life..
HONEST REVIEW
I don’t know if it was the Holy Spirit making me feel this way while reading it, but I can’t tell you how many times I was sobbing! It is so beautifully written that you can’t help to find comfort in it. This is the second Christian book that I’ve read in my life, and I am thankful I chose this book because for the past year I’ve been looking for more that takes place around this time and not in the 1900s.
The first Christian book I read was ‘Redeeming Love’ by Francine Rivers and both works made me get closer to Him. So if you loved FR then you will love Jessica’s writing! In here you will be given some verses from the Bible, which extremely helped as someone who’s just recently started reading it.
Also, i did not expect the plot twist! It took me 2 days to finish this book! (After finals week) Yes! It is this powerful! Like I said I love reading suspense, romance and fiction so this fit my description and got a bonus: Christ!!!!!!!
With that being said, ooof I loved Elijah! The bond that was being developed throughout this book was amazing! 🤍🤍🤍
November 20, 2024
Better than book 1 - 4.5 stars!
I really enjoyed this story, and in fact, enjoyed it better than the first book. I LOOOOOVE Elijah’s character and totally swooned over him (more than Lance; sorry but I guess I prefer guys who brood). I also felt like the enemies to lovers romantic storyline in this book was super creative, and yet I also related to both characters and understood where they both were coming from.
They both lose their grandmother or grandmother figure in Elijah’s case. Jessica Ashely really dealt with grief in a realistic way, and having lost my own grandmother a few years back, I related to a lot of that part of the story and for what both characters went through. I also love and respect how accurately she portrayed veteran PTSD.
The suspenseful plotline was so thrilling and exciting, and I enjoyed the action scenes, and in many ways, I feel like she got even better than book one. Her descriptions of the characters also got better than the first book. I also love and appreciate the Christian themes and the no spice romance.
My biggest and only critique of this, and why it’s 4.5 stars for me instead of 5 stars is the ending was disappointing. It was rushed and I felt like even though there was a couple twists thrown in there (one of them I did predict), I did feel like the entire ending was solved way too quickly and just easily/quickly solved and too easy of a happy ending all wrapped up in a nice bow when I wanted more.
4.5 stars, and I’m hoping to keep reading the series. I also kinda hope she changes things up in book three because (maybe it’s the writer in me) but I’m picking up on a few patterns in the suspense plotlines, so I don’t want it to become too predictable. But some people love that, just not me. I wanna be surprised and not see things coming.
I really enjoyed this story, and in fact, enjoyed it better than the first book. I LOOOOOVE Elijah’s character and totally swooned over him (more than Lance; sorry but I guess I prefer guys who brood). I also felt like the enemies to lovers romantic storyline in this book was super creative, and yet I also related to both characters and understood where they both were coming from.
They both lose their grandmother or grandmother figure in Elijah’s case. Jessica Ashely really dealt with grief in a realistic way, and having lost my own grandmother a few years back, I related to a lot of that part of the story and for what both characters went through. I also love and respect how accurately she portrayed veteran PTSD.
The suspenseful plotline was so thrilling and exciting, and I enjoyed the action scenes, and in many ways, I feel like she got even better than book one. Her descriptions of the characters also got better than the first book. I also love and appreciate the Christian themes and the no spice romance.
My biggest and only critique of this, and why it’s 4.5 stars for me instead of 5 stars is the ending was disappointing. It was rushed and I felt like even though there was a couple twists thrown in there (one of them I did predict), I did feel like the entire ending was solved way too quickly and just easily/quickly solved and too easy of a happy ending all wrapped up in a nice bow when I wanted more.
4.5 stars, and I’m hoping to keep reading the series. I also kinda hope she changes things up in book three because (maybe it’s the writer in me) but I’m picking up on a few patterns in the suspense plotlines, so I don’t want it to become too predictable. But some people love that, just not me. I wanna be surprised and not see things coming.
November 6, 2024
WHAT IT'S ABOUT
A woman with a harrowing past. The hero who never breaks a promise.
MY TAKE
It was fun to go back and read about the characters in Hope Springs. I enjoyed getting to know both Elijah and Andie (not sure of the spelling since I listened to the audiobook). I loved how kind the pastor was in helping Andie to find her way beyond her past mistakes through her Christian faith. This series is fast paced, and there's lots going on. And the romance between Elijah and Andie was swoony.
3 1/2 stars rounded to a 4
A woman with a harrowing past. The hero who never breaks a promise.
MY TAKE
It was fun to go back and read about the characters in Hope Springs. I enjoyed getting to know both Elijah and Andie (not sure of the spelling since I listened to the audiobook). I loved how kind the pastor was in helping Andie to find her way beyond her past mistakes through her Christian faith. This series is fast paced, and there's lots going on. And the romance between Elijah and Andie was swoony.
3 1/2 stars rounded to a 4
January 31, 2025
Oh Elijah...Computer nerd for Knight Security, he befriends one of the old ladies in the town of Hope Springs. Before she suddenly passes away, she asks him to please look out for her granddaughter.
Unfortunately, Elijah doesn't think very highly of Andie Montgomery, and her first impression of him isn't the best, either. You can imagine what is running through their minds when they find that her grandmother has left her house...to the two of them!
Andie has been running from Hope Springs for a decade; having left with her high school teacher once she graduated from high school. Her mother wasn't the best influence either, and when she is only left dishes, mother isn't too happy with EITHER Andie or Elijah. But is she upset enough to throw a brick through the window of the house that Andie and Elijah inherited?
What is Andie hiding from Elijah and the Knight Security team? And will her past be discovered in time to keep her safe when the threats are turned towards her?
Man...This one was a good one. Not only do we get to learn more about Lance, Elijah, and Michael, who had been on the same Army Ranger team, but we see just how the PTSD affects Elijah and his daily life. It was definitely eye opening and has left me with a higher respect for those who have served in our military.
Unfortunately, Elijah doesn't think very highly of Andie Montgomery, and her first impression of him isn't the best, either. You can imagine what is running through their minds when they find that her grandmother has left her house...to the two of them!
Andie has been running from Hope Springs for a decade; having left with her high school teacher once she graduated from high school. Her mother wasn't the best influence either, and when she is only left dishes, mother isn't too happy with EITHER Andie or Elijah. But is she upset enough to throw a brick through the window of the house that Andie and Elijah inherited?
What is Andie hiding from Elijah and the Knight Security team? And will her past be discovered in time to keep her safe when the threats are turned towards her?
Man...This one was a good one. Not only do we get to learn more about Lance, Elijah, and Michael, who had been on the same Army Ranger team, but we see just how the PTSD affects Elijah and his daily life. It was definitely eye opening and has left me with a higher respect for those who have served in our military.
April 18, 2025
What a ride! This book hooked me from page one and I flew through it in a single sitting. After the first book in the series, I was curious but not totally sold. But this second one? Absolutely nailed it! The characters felt so much more real and layered this time around. I loved how their relationship was balanced and they both needed each other in a meaningful way.
The faith elements were beautifully woven in, too. Nothing felt forced, it all tied into the story naturally and actually added to the emotional depth. I also appreciated that the characters had messy, complicated pasts and the book didn’t gloss over that. It made everything feel more authentic.
The suspense was on point! Just when I thought I had things figured out, another twist came out of nowhere and flipped the script. Sure, if you’re new to this genre, some of the turns might seem a little far fetched, but honestly, that’s half the fun! So far, each mystery in the series has had its own unique plot, which keeps things fresh. Some other series in this genre tend to repeat the same plot points over and over.
My only wish? A bit more of a peek into their happily ever after in the epilogue, but I’m betting the next books will give me more of that. Can’t wait to keep reading!
The faith elements were beautifully woven in, too. Nothing felt forced, it all tied into the story naturally and actually added to the emotional depth. I also appreciated that the characters had messy, complicated pasts and the book didn’t gloss over that. It made everything feel more authentic.
The suspense was on point! Just when I thought I had things figured out, another twist came out of nowhere and flipped the script. Sure, if you’re new to this genre, some of the turns might seem a little far fetched, but honestly, that’s half the fun! So far, each mystery in the series has had its own unique plot, which keeps things fresh. Some other series in this genre tend to repeat the same plot points over and over.
My only wish? A bit more of a peek into their happily ever after in the epilogue, but I’m betting the next books will give me more of that. Can’t wait to keep reading!
June 23, 2024
To anyone who has never felt good enough. You ARE. To anyone who has never felt loved. You ARE. To anyone who has ever felt like your sins are too great to find peace. They’re NOT.
Wow, I don't even know where to start with this book—I loved it so much. Elijah is a wounded veteran working in private security, embodying the perfect protective hero. Andie, a fashion designer with a traumatic past, finds herself drawn to him. This story features found family, enemies-to-lovers, small-town romance, and Christian romantic suspense, delivering all the sizzle without the spice. I truly don't know why it took me so long to get to the ARC because once I started, I couldn't put it down and was on the edge of my seat the entire time. This book was perfection, and I'm eager to dive into the rest of the series. Recently, I've felt a conviction to put down books with spice, and this one was a great reminder of how a story can convey deep connection and love between characters without explicit details. While I’ve enjoyed many spicy books in the past, I'm in a season of exploring my faith more and craving books that reflect that.
I received this book as an ARC and all opinions are my own
Wow, I don't even know where to start with this book—I loved it so much. Elijah is a wounded veteran working in private security, embodying the perfect protective hero. Andie, a fashion designer with a traumatic past, finds herself drawn to him. This story features found family, enemies-to-lovers, small-town romance, and Christian romantic suspense, delivering all the sizzle without the spice. I truly don't know why it took me so long to get to the ARC because once I started, I couldn't put it down and was on the edge of my seat the entire time. This book was perfection, and I'm eager to dive into the rest of the series. Recently, I've felt a conviction to put down books with spice, and this one was a great reminder of how a story can convey deep connection and love between characters without explicit details. While I’ve enjoyed many spicy books in the past, I'm in a season of exploring my faith more and craving books that reflect that.
I received this book as an ARC and all opinions are my own
May 7, 2024
Elijah and Andie get off to a pretty rough start when they meet at Andie’s grandmothers funeral. This book has an honest Christian theme throughout. Both characters are flawed and fighting past demons. They both struggle for different reasons and learn to lean on God to help them move into the future. Elijah works for his former commanding officer at a security firm and is tied to Andie through her Gran’s will. Not all players are happy with the way Gran divided up items in her will and it soon comes to light someone is out to make Andie pay. Luckily, Elijah and his crew are there to help solve the mystery and save Andie from the multiple attempts on her life. The characters are not perfect by the end and still deal with what has happened to them each day – but the positive growth they have experienced and the ability to trust each other is beautiful to read. While evil does exist in this world, their faith shows that good exists as well though we are all flawed.
June 30, 2025
I love a good enemies to lovers trope. Gets me almost as much as the grumpy sunshine trope for real. Andie was hard for me to like at first. She frustrated me with her assumptions she made about Elijah but reading more I understood why. She was just a broken soul in need of healing
Elijah was sooo protective over Andie I swooonedddd their banter was top notch and they seemed to really keep each other on their toes. The tension that built between the two of them was just *chefs kiss*. I loved seeing Andies development with God and now being afraid to voice her feelings. I loved the verses in the book. It really made me connect with the story. It’s been a struggle for me lately reading anything. Especially with spice/smut. So knowing this book was without it was a breath of fresh air.
Can’t wait to read Michael’s book.. even though it’s a second chance romance and those usually aren’t my cup of tea lol.
Elijah was sooo protective over Andie I swooonedddd their banter was top notch and they seemed to really keep each other on their toes. The tension that built between the two of them was just *chefs kiss*. I loved seeing Andies development with God and now being afraid to voice her feelings. I loved the verses in the book. It really made me connect with the story. It’s been a struggle for me lately reading anything. Especially with spice/smut. So knowing this book was without it was a breath of fresh air.
Can’t wait to read Michael’s book.. even though it’s a second chance romance and those usually aren’t my cup of tea lol.
October 28, 2024
Elijah and Andie both have trauma and tragedy in their pasts. Elijah is an ex Army Ranger and Andie was exploited and groomed by a former high school teacher. When they both find themselves in Hope Springs, they are more adversaries than friends in the beginning but Elijah is protective of Andie and he wants to help find the person who is trying to hurt her.
The story is suspenseful but weaves messages of faith and redemption, forgiveness and love in to the story. There is a twist in the end when you discover who the bad guy is. The interaction between Andie and Elijah turns from enemies to friends then to a romance with a happy ending.
This is a new author for me and I enjoyed reading the story and look forward to reading more by this author.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
The story is suspenseful but weaves messages of faith and redemption, forgiveness and love in to the story. There is a twist in the end when you discover who the bad guy is. The interaction between Andie and Elijah turns from enemies to friends then to a romance with a happy ending.
This is a new author for me and I enjoyed reading the story and look forward to reading more by this author.
I was given an arc copy of this book and I willingly offer my honest review.
June 4, 2024
Another fantastic romantic suspense book by Jessica Ashley! I loved this one so much. I loved the pacing of this book. It moved quickly without feeling rushed. Elijah and Andie were 2 broken people who struggled with guilt over their pasts. Andie returns home after her grandmother’s death and her past catches up to her. She and Elijah grow close as they work together to figure out who is after Andie. I loved all the parts where Andie and Elijah talk through their guilt and shame with each other and with their pastor.
What you’ll find in Searching for Peace:
🌅 Biblical Truth
🌅 Suspense
🌅 Sizzling kisses
🌅 Mystery
🌅 Small coastal town
🌅 Found family
🌅 Veteran MMC
🌅 Fashion designer MFC
**Thank you Jessica Ashley and Just Read Tours for the copy of my book.
What you’ll find in Searching for Peace:
🌅 Biblical Truth
🌅 Suspense
🌅 Sizzling kisses
🌅 Mystery
🌅 Small coastal town
🌅 Found family
🌅 Veteran MMC
🌅 Fashion designer MFC
**Thank you Jessica Ashley and Just Read Tours for the copy of my book.
August 7, 2024
I LOVED this book! This story was so well organized and kept me so interested in the plot. This enemy to lovers story was so pure and so relatable. Two people, ashamed of their pasts, the shame they still hold and the forgiveness they accept from the Lord and others, is remarkable. Truly a redemptive story.
The author made Elijah so relatable and describe his war wounds beautifully and respectfully. Not all war wounds are visible. Andie cared for him and respected regardless of his past. Elijah showed grace and acceptance toward Andie and they fall in love.
The author’s writing really developed from the first book I read (story of lance). The story flowed and any flashbacks to the past were tied in well.
I loved this story and it will be one I reread for years to come!
The author made Elijah so relatable and describe his war wounds beautifully and respectfully. Not all war wounds are visible. Andie cared for him and respected regardless of his past. Elijah showed grace and acceptance toward Andie and they fall in love.
The author’s writing really developed from the first book I read (story of lance). The story flowed and any flashbacks to the past were tied in well.
I loved this story and it will be one I reread for years to come!
March 30, 2025
Elijah & Andie are great characters in this book. You can tell from the beginning that somehow there is an unseen connection that continues to pull them together throughout the book. And the grandmother Edna....I wish I could meet her. There was non-stop action, swoon-worthy kisses and just a terrific plot. These were flawed people seeking and finding forgiveness from God and peace for both. I loved the story. The author, Jessica Ashley, really understands how we are all flawed in some way but also how God will forgive us. I love this series so much that I have read the first 2 books in 2 days. Now, to read the next installment. I highly recommend this book and the entire Coastal Hope series.
May 9, 2024
I thought the first book in this series by this new author was good, but this one was even better. I found myself chuckling a lot in the early parts of the book as Elijah and Andie clashed in a major way.
Both characters were very flawed and had pasts they were dealing with, and the author sprinkled some great truths throughout the book as she wrote their story.
The person who turned out to be the bad guy is someone I started suspecting fairly early in the book....and I am not sure why. But I was right :)
Excellent read, lots of suspense. The author has only gotten better with this sophomore suspense novel.
Both characters were very flawed and had pasts they were dealing with, and the author sprinkled some great truths throughout the book as she wrote their story.
The person who turned out to be the bad guy is someone I started suspecting fairly early in the book....and I am not sure why. But I was right :)
Excellent read, lots of suspense. The author has only gotten better with this sophomore suspense novel.
July 28, 2024
I rarely read books of this genre, Christian Romance, but this was a well-done story that drew me in. The characters were engaging, and the storyline had heartfelt emotions. Andie's grandmother, Edna, died and she returns home. Elijah been helping Edna and they got to be very close friends. On her death bed, she asks him to watch over her. Then they meet at the funeral, each thinking the worst of each other. Then they find they co-inherited her grandmother's house. When someone tries to harm Andie, Elijah comes forward with his promise. Will they find who it is? I volunteer to read and review this copy I'd received.
June 7, 2024
Well you went and did it again. I have always loved your writing and I love even more your christian series. This is a intense feel good enemies to lovers. No, I wont give anything away. Let me just say this book will start you out chuckling at the banter between the two MCs and leave you guessing as to what on earth is happening.
But the best part in my opinion is the good feeling even when its intense. The bible verses and prayers throughout the story just make it all the more beautiful.
I HIGHLY recommend this book.... As well as the first one.
But the best part in my opinion is the good feeling even when its intense. The bible verses and prayers throughout the story just make it all the more beautiful.
I HIGHLY recommend this book.... As well as the first one.
June 28, 2024
Searching For Peace is an action packed and thrilling read. I enjoyed learning more about Elijah and revisiting Coastal Hope. The introduction of new characters does not disappoint. Andie is an extremely relatable character that grows on you very quickly.
This book has twists and suspense with an enemies to lover’s sizzle thrown in. I like the message of faith, forgiveness and not letting your past define you.
Searching for Peace is book 2 in the Coastal Hope series but can be read as a stand-alone.
This book has twists and suspense with an enemies to lover’s sizzle thrown in. I like the message of faith, forgiveness and not letting your past define you.
Searching for Peace is book 2 in the Coastal Hope series but can be read as a stand-alone.
August 20, 2024
A suspenseful mystery that begins with sharp antagonism between the two main characters. In a slight twist, the prodigal is the female protagonist, a woman who has “moved on” from her roots and doesn’t plan to return. Her counterpart is an ex-army ranger who would gladly send her away again.
The way they grow into an uneasy friendship and then more is well done. And the suspense is non-stop. The reveal of the antagonist’s identity felt off to me, after the continual build-up with attack after attack on the main characters.
The way they grow into an uneasy friendship and then more is well done. And the suspense is non-stop. The reveal of the antagonist’s identity felt off to me, after the continual build-up with attack after attack on the main characters.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 83 reviews