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Outer Banks #1
Fortunate Harbor
For readers of Nicholas Sparks and Karen Kingsbury, the first in a dazzling new series of romantic, feel-good standalone stories with a dash of adventure set against the dramatic landscape of North Carolina’s Outer Banks—the perfect place for second chances, bittersweet love, and a thrilling quest—from internationally bestselling author Davis Bunn.
It’s a promise of better things to come . . .
With its colorful history, and miles of sand, tide, and windswept oaks, North Carolina’s Outer Banks is a paradise for locals and tourists alike. For Curtis Gage, returning after nineteen years to be the new assistant manager of a 5-star, ocean-front resort, it’s a chance to start a new life—and come to terms with an old one. This is where his father, a revered police chief, died in the line of duty. Whisked away by his mother when he was just a child, Curtis always yearned to come back and reclaim this magnificent necklace of islands as home.
But he never imagined the risks . . .
This coastal haven is in attorney Rae Alden’s blood, and the resort’s expansion is encroaching on precious Fortunate Harbor. For Rae and the old-town families she represents, their generations-old heritage is not for sale for all the money in the world. Who’d have guessed that the ordeal would tie Rae to Curtis, a childhood sweetheart whose family tragedy once converged, fatefully, with her own past? The landgrab is reuniting them in more ways than one. Because the property is more valuable than even Rae believed. The proof is in a secret deed and a long-lost map to a bona fide buried treasure.
If pirate legends, rekindled romance, and real-life adventure aren’t enough to make the heart pound, Curtis and Rae discover they aren’t the only ones hunting. In love and in danger, they have each other, and are finding a place to call home. That alone is a fortune worth fighting for.
It’s a promise of better things to come . . .
With its colorful history, and miles of sand, tide, and windswept oaks, North Carolina’s Outer Banks is a paradise for locals and tourists alike. For Curtis Gage, returning after nineteen years to be the new assistant manager of a 5-star, ocean-front resort, it’s a chance to start a new life—and come to terms with an old one. This is where his father, a revered police chief, died in the line of duty. Whisked away by his mother when he was just a child, Curtis always yearned to come back and reclaim this magnificent necklace of islands as home.
But he never imagined the risks . . .
This coastal haven is in attorney Rae Alden’s blood, and the resort’s expansion is encroaching on precious Fortunate Harbor. For Rae and the old-town families she represents, their generations-old heritage is not for sale for all the money in the world. Who’d have guessed that the ordeal would tie Rae to Curtis, a childhood sweetheart whose family tragedy once converged, fatefully, with her own past? The landgrab is reuniting them in more ways than one. Because the property is more valuable than even Rae believed. The proof is in a secret deed and a long-lost map to a bona fide buried treasure.
If pirate legends, rekindled romance, and real-life adventure aren’t enough to make the heart pound, Curtis and Rae discover they aren’t the only ones hunting. In love and in danger, they have each other, and are finding a place to call home. That alone is a fortune worth fighting for.
288 pages, Hardcover
Published April 29, 2025
151 people are currently reading
8129 people want to read
About the author
Davis Bunn
112 books1,043 followersDavis Bunn is an internationally-acclaimed author who has sold more than eight million books in twenty languages.
Honored with four Christy Awards for excellence in historical and suspense fiction, Davis was inducted into the Christy Hall of Fame in 2014.
His bestsellers include The Great Divide, Winner Take All, The Meeting Place, The Book of Hours, and The Quilt. A sought-after lecturer in the art of writing, Bunn was serves as Writer in Residence at Regent's Park College, Oxford University.
Davis Bunn also writes under the names Thomas Locke (for his epic fantasy and techno-thriller novels) and T. Davis Bunn (for books published prior to 2002).
Honored with four Christy Awards for excellence in historical and suspense fiction, Davis was inducted into the Christy Hall of Fame in 2014.
His bestsellers include The Great Divide, Winner Take All, The Meeting Place, The Book of Hours, and The Quilt. A sought-after lecturer in the art of writing, Bunn was serves as Writer in Residence at Regent's Park College, Oxford University.
Davis Bunn also writes under the names Thomas Locke (for his epic fantasy and techno-thriller novels) and T. Davis Bunn (for books published prior to 2002).
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 119 reviews
June 28, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.25
😈 Content Warnings
• Grief
• Family secrets & betrayal
• Threats & violence over land disputes
• Legal tension & emotional stress  
💕 Tropes
• Childhood Sweethearts Reunite
• Small-Town Setting
• Second Chances
• Land Dispute & Hidden Treasure
• Found Family
• Adventure & Mystery
📖 Perfect for Readers Who Liked/similar books…
• Miramar Bay by Davis Bunn
• A Walk To Remember by Sparks
• The Shell Seekers by Rosamunde Pilcher
🧭 Age Recommendation
16+
🎵 Song Match
“Dance With My Father” by Luther Vandross
😈 Content Warnings
• Grief
• Family secrets & betrayal
• Threats & violence over land disputes
• Legal tension & emotional stress  
💕 Tropes
• Childhood Sweethearts Reunite
• Small-Town Setting
• Second Chances
• Land Dispute & Hidden Treasure
• Found Family
• Adventure & Mystery
📖 Perfect for Readers Who Liked/similar books…
• Miramar Bay by Davis Bunn
• A Walk To Remember by Sparks
• The Shell Seekers by Rosamunde Pilcher
🧭 Age Recommendation
16+
🎵 Song Match
“Dance With My Father” by Luther Vandross
April 23, 2025
Davis Bunn certainly knows how to captivate a reader. I understand this is the first in a series of stand alone novels. The setting was idyllic. There was light, natural, clean romance. Intrigue and suspense. All of this kept me wanting to turn the pages. The characters were well developed and easy to picture in the mind’s eye. The author is so descriptive, he enlisted all of my senses. The intense scenes had me on the edge of my seat. I loved the conclusion. Highly recommend.
I was blessed with an ARC from NetGalley and the opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.
I was blessed with an ARC from NetGalley and the opinions expressed are my own and unbiased.
April 27, 2025
Unfortunately, I am DNFing at 37% in. This was marketed as similar to Nicholas Sparks' work, so I assumed it was going to be a romance. However, the story is more of a corporate/legal drama with some drama romance sprinkled in. I just couldn't find myself to care about what was going on. There were too many characters to follow with too choppy writing, making it difficult to stay on track at times. This isn't to say this is a bad book, just not for me and if you're into this sort of thing pick it up as you may like it.
April 12, 2025
Davis Bunn’s newest book Fortunate Harbor takes place on the Outer Banks in North Carolina. The novel follows Curtis Gage as he returns home after a many year absence. He has come to open a new five star hotel and calm the locals who have been disgruntled by the current manager.
Rae Alden had a chance to leave her hometown and move into a larger, more prestigious law firm, but she stayed. Now her old boyfriend is back, and she is left wondering about the direction of her life.
Adding to the drama is the hotel itself - really the company that owns it. They are presently going through a corporate fight for control that is set up to take out Curtis and his present bosses and change the landscape forever.
Rae and Curtis are both determined to find a path to allow the hotel to be part of the landscape, stay relevant in good hands, and save the corporation. Curtis and Rae also need to let go of the past to move to the future.
I loved this novel. I loved the characters (even when I didn’t like them) and the storyline was superb. I didn’t want the book to end. According to what I read, this novel might be the first of many from the Outer Banks. I am so happy. Fortunate Harbor by Davis Bunn was a fantastic read that I whole-heartedly recommend.
Rae Alden had a chance to leave her hometown and move into a larger, more prestigious law firm, but she stayed. Now her old boyfriend is back, and she is left wondering about the direction of her life.
Adding to the drama is the hotel itself - really the company that owns it. They are presently going through a corporate fight for control that is set up to take out Curtis and his present bosses and change the landscape forever.
Rae and Curtis are both determined to find a path to allow the hotel to be part of the landscape, stay relevant in good hands, and save the corporation. Curtis and Rae also need to let go of the past to move to the future.
I loved this novel. I loved the characters (even when I didn’t like them) and the storyline was superb. I didn’t want the book to end. According to what I read, this novel might be the first of many from the Outer Banks. I am so happy. Fortunate Harbor by Davis Bunn was a fantastic read that I whole-heartedly recommend.
April 30, 2025
2.5⭐️
You’ll like this book if you enjoy the Outer Banks, international / corporate plots, mysterious disappearances, and awesome military people. I would not classify it as a romance. There were several things left unresolved, which sets it up well to be the first in a series.
I haven’t read a book by Davis Bunn since he was co-writing with Janette Oke in the early 2000’s and I was curious about what his writing is like today. This wasn’t a book for me. I didn’t enjoy all the corporate drama and got tired of the constant cliffhangers designed to keep my attention.
The audio narrator was more of a reader than an engaging narrator. Since the book alternates between a male and female point of view, I would have enjoyed it more with two narrators.
Many thanks to NetGalley and RB Media for the opportunity to read and review this book prior to publication.
You’ll like this book if you enjoy the Outer Banks, international / corporate plots, mysterious disappearances, and awesome military people. I would not classify it as a romance. There were several things left unresolved, which sets it up well to be the first in a series.
I haven’t read a book by Davis Bunn since he was co-writing with Janette Oke in the early 2000’s and I was curious about what his writing is like today. This wasn’t a book for me. I didn’t enjoy all the corporate drama and got tired of the constant cliffhangers designed to keep my attention.
The audio narrator was more of a reader than an engaging narrator. Since the book alternates between a male and female point of view, I would have enjoyed it more with two narrators.
Many thanks to NetGalley and RB Media for the opportunity to read and review this book prior to publication.
April 29, 2025
The narrator is one of my favorites and she did an excellent job. Susan Bennet has voiced other stories that I’ve loved. There’s something about her voice that is perfect for novels set in North Carolina.
With that said, the description of this book is misleading and that was a disappointment about halfway in. I won’t spoil the story but when people in other reviews say that the outcome is one they didn’t expect it’s because the story description doesn’t elude to there being a third person added to the love story. I don’t like misleading descriptions of stories. I liked this story well enough but I think the direction the author took with the romance just resulted in a bit of a let down.
With that said, the description of this book is misleading and that was a disappointment about halfway in. I won’t spoil the story but when people in other reviews say that the outcome is one they didn’t expect it’s because the story description doesn’t elude to there being a third person added to the love story. I don’t like misleading descriptions of stories. I liked this story well enough but I think the direction the author took with the romance just resulted in a bit of a let down.
July 25, 2025
Really struggled with following this storyline. There were so many hidden facts that were revealed later but led to my confusion.
May 5, 2025
After Curtis Gage's police chief father was killed in the line of duty, his mother moved him away—away from the place he called home and from his first love, Rae Aldean. Nineteen years later, he's back to be the new assistant manager of a five-star oceanfront resort. There's pushback from the locals, and the attorney representing them is none other than Rae. Rae could have been an attorney anywhere but, after law school, chose to return home. Curtis's company decides to hire Rae as their local attorney. She also happens to be the attorney for the owner of the land Curtis is trying to buy, whose owner had just disappeared. The DEA is sniffing around, and it seems there's some turmoil within Curtis's company. Who's trying to overthrow Curtis and his boss? What secrets is the land Curtis just bought hiding? Will Rae and Curtis start where they left off all those years ago?
Told in the POVs of Rae and Curtis, this was an enjoyable read. What initially drew me to this book was the setting. The author's descriptive writing made me feel like I was back in Morehead City, Atlantic Beach, and Beaufort. I absolutely loved it! The mysteries of the treasure, Landon Barrett, and the company Curtis worked for were extremely intriguing. Curtis's backstory was definitely heartbreaking. But things did not turn out the way I expected, especially the romance. I believe they market this book to fans of Nicholas Sparks because of the setting; there is nothing else that is very similar. However, this was a good book and I do recommend giving it a read.
Told in the POVs of Rae and Curtis, this was an enjoyable read. What initially drew me to this book was the setting. The author's descriptive writing made me feel like I was back in Morehead City, Atlantic Beach, and Beaufort. I absolutely loved it! The mysteries of the treasure, Landon Barrett, and the company Curtis worked for were extremely intriguing. Curtis's backstory was definitely heartbreaking. But things did not turn out the way I expected, especially the romance. I believe they market this book to fans of Nicholas Sparks because of the setting; there is nothing else that is very similar. However, this was a good book and I do recommend giving it a read.
April 30, 2025
BOOK REVIEW of Fortunate Harbor by Davis Bunn
A five star resort has the entire community of Fortunate Harbor on edge. The locals see the resort as impeding on their pristine coastal sanctuary.
This is where Curtis Gage and Rae Alden, former high school sweethearts, enter the picture. Curtis is representing the secretive parent company of the resort and Rae is the local attorney that represents a local man that’s been missing for four years.
This book was confusing. The story felt all over the place and there were loose ends that never were resolved. In lieu of saying too much negative I will just say that this book wasn’t for me. I couldn’t follow the story when every interaction ended in a half conversation to “keep you guessing” until the next chapter. I couldn’t connect with the characters or understand why there was such a need to develop numerous secrets.
Thank you to Kensington Publishings and Netgalley for an advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own. Publication Release Date: April 29, 2025
#christianfictionreview
#christianbookstagram
#christianfictionreviewer
A five star resort has the entire community of Fortunate Harbor on edge. The locals see the resort as impeding on their pristine coastal sanctuary.
This is where Curtis Gage and Rae Alden, former high school sweethearts, enter the picture. Curtis is representing the secretive parent company of the resort and Rae is the local attorney that represents a local man that’s been missing for four years.
This book was confusing. The story felt all over the place and there were loose ends that never were resolved. In lieu of saying too much negative I will just say that this book wasn’t for me. I couldn’t follow the story when every interaction ended in a half conversation to “keep you guessing” until the next chapter. I couldn’t connect with the characters or understand why there was such a need to develop numerous secrets.
Thank you to Kensington Publishings and Netgalley for an advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own. Publication Release Date: April 29, 2025
#christianfictionreview
#christianbookstagram
#christianfictionreviewer
May 11, 2025
I’m a big fan of Davis Bunn’s Miramar Bay series, so I was very much looking forward to this new book (series?)set in a different town. However, it didn’t draw me in like his past books, and I found the ending to be very unsatisfying in one major way. Incidentally, one of his last books in his Miramar Bay series ended in an equally unsatisfying (and similar) way, so perhaps this is a new direction for his writing style? Either way, this book almost turned into a DNF for me, but I pushed through hoping for a different outcome. I still consider him an excellent writer, but I likely won’t be putting myself on my library’s waiting list for his new books in the future.
May 9, 2025
Davis Bunn’s Fortunate Harbor is a story that takes place on the Outer Banks in North Carolina. The description of the local scenery sounds beautiful and breathtaking. Curtis Gage, one of the main characters, grew up here but moved away at the age of 17. At that time, he was in love with a local girl named Rae Alden. She becomes a lawyer and instead of opting to move away and be a part of a big firm, she decides to stay in town and open her own office. Curtis returns to Fortunate Harbor to improve the area by building and improving on a local hotel. I really believed that the storyline would be about these 2 reuniting but the author surprises us by taking the story in a different direction. The story includes a lot of legal jargon, some dangerous goons and just a bit of romance. The storyline held my interest and it’s one I’d recommend, however I don’t see where it resembles a Nicholas Sparks book at all as is referenced. I’d like to thank Kensington Publishing for accepting my request to read an early copy and NetGalley for the arc. I found it to be an enjoyable read and I’m giving it a 4 star rating.
May 9, 2025
4.4
* Thank you to Uplitreads & Kensington Publishing for this copy and a spot on the tour!
OBX, reknit, spurious…
Fortunate Harbor takes place in the paradise of NC’s OBX. Curtis returns to the area after a 10+ years absence to be the assistant manager of the new 5 star resort. Strong emotions and disagreements have left many of the locals in a turmoil. A significant number of the inhabitants are uneasy about their happiness and their place of beauty being spoiled. Local attorney Rae returned to the area after college to practice law in the area. These former acquaintances will become involved in a corporate fight for control.
A tale of suspense, friendship, life lessons, insights, betrayal, and 2nd chances. Both Curtis and Rae have life obstacles to overcome and a need to let go of past aspects of their life.
THOUGHTS:
*I’ve been to OBX. Very descriptive. I could see & hear the sights & sounds again!
*True-to-life characters in a realistic setting:
Rae - focused / career -minded
Curtis - meticulous / withdrawn
Amiya - a go- getter
Kurien - successful life
Dana - preeminent / helpful mentor
*A little bit of intrigue, romance, business battles, & legal troubles in the mix.
*Surprise ending!
*Lots of secrets!
*Beautiful cover!
* Thank you to Uplitreads & Kensington Publishing for this copy and a spot on the tour!
OBX, reknit, spurious…
Fortunate Harbor takes place in the paradise of NC’s OBX. Curtis returns to the area after a 10+ years absence to be the assistant manager of the new 5 star resort. Strong emotions and disagreements have left many of the locals in a turmoil. A significant number of the inhabitants are uneasy about their happiness and their place of beauty being spoiled. Local attorney Rae returned to the area after college to practice law in the area. These former acquaintances will become involved in a corporate fight for control.
A tale of suspense, friendship, life lessons, insights, betrayal, and 2nd chances. Both Curtis and Rae have life obstacles to overcome and a need to let go of past aspects of their life.
THOUGHTS:
*I’ve been to OBX. Very descriptive. I could see & hear the sights & sounds again!
*True-to-life characters in a realistic setting:
Rae - focused / career -minded
Curtis - meticulous / withdrawn
Amiya - a go- getter
Kurien - successful life
Dana - preeminent / helpful mentor
*A little bit of intrigue, romance, business battles, & legal troubles in the mix.
*Surprise ending!
*Lots of secrets!
*Beautiful cover!
January 31, 2026
I received this book from Goodreads for my honest review.
While I loved the synopsis I just could catch on with the writing style. it was very choppy to me.
While I loved the synopsis I just could catch on with the writing style. it was very choppy to me.
May 2, 2025
⭐️⭐️ 2/5 Stars (Meh)
Setting: The Outer Banks, North Carolina
Genre: Contemporary Romance (advertised as such but not what I was expecting a romance to be)
I picked up this book because it was billed as being similar to Nicholas Sparks, but unfortunately, that comparison fell flat for me. Yes, it’s set in the Outer Banks, but that’s really where the similarities end. I found the plot hard to follow, with too many characters introduced and several storylines that felt underdeveloped or left hanging. The premise had potential—especially the blend of local history, romance, and a treasure hunt—but the execution didn’t quite come together. I wanted to care about Curtis and Rae, but their connection didn’t feel authentic, and the stakes never seemed fully realized. While the setting was described nicely, it wasn’t enough to carry the story. I do think the author has talent and hope their next book finds a stronger footing. #netgalley #fortunateharbor #booked_this_weekend
Setting: The Outer Banks, North Carolina
Genre: Contemporary Romance (advertised as such but not what I was expecting a romance to be)
I picked up this book because it was billed as being similar to Nicholas Sparks, but unfortunately, that comparison fell flat for me. Yes, it’s set in the Outer Banks, but that’s really where the similarities end. I found the plot hard to follow, with too many characters introduced and several storylines that felt underdeveloped or left hanging. The premise had potential—especially the blend of local history, romance, and a treasure hunt—but the execution didn’t quite come together. I wanted to care about Curtis and Rae, but their connection didn’t feel authentic, and the stakes never seemed fully realized. While the setting was described nicely, it wasn’t enough to carry the story. I do think the author has talent and hope their next book finds a stronger footing. #netgalley #fortunateharbor #booked_this_weekend
April 30, 2025
While Sandra Bennett is a great Narrator, she couldn't make me love this book.
This was my first Davis Bunn book.
I felt misled by the description of the book. It didn't feel like as much of a romance as it did a long ago pirate mystery from childhood and a land grab. More of a secret corporate/legal mystery to grab valuable land from a small quiet town. There were a lot of legal meetings about obtaining this land by a secret group. All of this done by 2 people that grew up there and might be rekindling a childhood spark. So there's a lot of talking about the past. There is a surprise person that pops up near the end and really threw the story for a loop. The way so many things were left unanswered and opened it's obvious that there will be sequels. That is one thing that I find absolutely annoying about some books that have a sequel and I always give it a lower rating because of it. Please finish this story and then in the next book give us a new story.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.
This was my first Davis Bunn book.
I felt misled by the description of the book. It didn't feel like as much of a romance as it did a long ago pirate mystery from childhood and a land grab. More of a secret corporate/legal mystery to grab valuable land from a small quiet town. There were a lot of legal meetings about obtaining this land by a secret group. All of this done by 2 people that grew up there and might be rekindling a childhood spark. So there's a lot of talking about the past. There is a surprise person that pops up near the end and really threw the story for a loop. The way so many things were left unanswered and opened it's obvious that there will be sequels. That is one thing that I find absolutely annoying about some books that have a sequel and I always give it a lower rating because of it. Please finish this story and then in the next book give us a new story.
Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the arc.
July 14, 2025
Davis Bunn being a favoured author of mine, I decided to read it (or rather listen to it). It's No. 1 in a new series "Outer Banks". The story really didn't match the description. It was more centered around property development and legal issues, rather than romance as described. I had trouble following all of the characters. This was more about me than the book, because I listed to it on Audible instead of reading the story - which is my preference. Instead of quietly sitting and listening, for hours, I attempted to do other things concurrently. Not a great idea. I will give the book another chance and read it when it comes to the library.
Update: I have just read this book a second time, the first being via Audible. This time I read an actual 'hard copy' book. I enjoyed it considerably more than the first time as I found it easier to follow the story. I'm still of the view it didn't quite match the description of the book, ie for readers of Nicholas Spark and Karen Kingsbury. As previously stated it was more along the lines of corporate, property, realty issues and the law, rather than the "romance" side of things. Having said that though, I'll still read Book 2 when it comes along and I now 'get' the theme of the new series.
Update: I have just read this book a second time, the first being via Audible. This time I read an actual 'hard copy' book. I enjoyed it considerably more than the first time as I found it easier to follow the story. I'm still of the view it didn't quite match the description of the book, ie for readers of Nicholas Spark and Karen Kingsbury. As previously stated it was more along the lines of corporate, property, realty issues and the law, rather than the "romance" side of things. Having said that though, I'll still read Book 2 when it comes along and I now 'get' the theme of the new series.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 2, 2025
I believe this is the first I’ve read from this author, and lucky for me that this is book #1 of a new series!
It is based in the Outer Banks area, and so it comes with beautiful descriptions of the area, as well as the climate of the people living in the area… especially since a huge, new resort has been built… and the GM is NOT a nice person… and the community is not afraid to let him know they’re not happy with him. But, he’s got his own agenda going…
Rae Alden is a top-ranking attorney in the area. Although she had the chance to leave, and move to a much more prestigious firm, she wanted to stay in her coveted small town, with it’s quirky townspeople who ARE the embodiment of ‘small town’!!
Curtis Gage is now in charge of a HUGE company who’s opening up phenomenal hotels… all over the world.
He’s also Rae’s HS sweetheart…. They haven’t seen each other in years…
They’ve both moved on though… they’re now in their late 20’s or early 30’s… right??
So when Rae is asked to represent Curtis’ company, under some sketchy circumstances, she takes a breath… and then asks her mentor to step in and help her out.
At the same time we learn that one of Rae’s clients, who owns a huge property that’s been damaged by multiple storms, has been missing for several years. Rae is desperately trying to locate him, as she’s his attorney, and she needs to make some imminent decisions regarding the property!
Once again, this is just the tip of the iceberg! There’s a whole lot going on in this one, with some startling twists!
I’m gonna stop 🛑 right here! 🛑
If it sounds like something you’d like, please look 👀 for it on shelves now. It was just released on 4/29/25!!
#FortunateHarbor by #DavisBunn and narrated beautifully, as always, by #SusanBennett!
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me!
**** This has JUST BEEN RELEASED!! LOOK 👀 FOR IT ON SHELVES NOW!! ****
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and & #RBMedia for an ARC of the audiobook, in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
It is based in the Outer Banks area, and so it comes with beautiful descriptions of the area, as well as the climate of the people living in the area… especially since a huge, new resort has been built… and the GM is NOT a nice person… and the community is not afraid to let him know they’re not happy with him. But, he’s got his own agenda going…
Rae Alden is a top-ranking attorney in the area. Although she had the chance to leave, and move to a much more prestigious firm, she wanted to stay in her coveted small town, with it’s quirky townspeople who ARE the embodiment of ‘small town’!!
Curtis Gage is now in charge of a HUGE company who’s opening up phenomenal hotels… all over the world.
He’s also Rae’s HS sweetheart…. They haven’t seen each other in years…
They’ve both moved on though… they’re now in their late 20’s or early 30’s… right??
So when Rae is asked to represent Curtis’ company, under some sketchy circumstances, she takes a breath… and then asks her mentor to step in and help her out.
At the same time we learn that one of Rae’s clients, who owns a huge property that’s been damaged by multiple storms, has been missing for several years. Rae is desperately trying to locate him, as she’s his attorney, and she needs to make some imminent decisions regarding the property!
Once again, this is just the tip of the iceberg! There’s a whole lot going on in this one, with some startling twists!
I’m gonna stop 🛑 right here! 🛑
If it sounds like something you’d like, please look 👀 for it on shelves now. It was just released on 4/29/25!!
#FortunateHarbor by #DavisBunn and narrated beautifully, as always, by #SusanBennett!
4 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ for me!
**** This has JUST BEEN RELEASED!! LOOK 👀 FOR IT ON SHELVES NOW!! ****
Thanks so much to #NetGalley and & #RBMedia for an ARC of the audiobook, in exchange for an honest review.
You can find my reviews on: Goodreads,
Insta @BookReviews_with_emsr and/or
My Facebook Book Club: Book Reviews With Elaine
Thanks so much for reading! And if you ‘liked’ my review, please share with your friends, & click ‘LIKE’ below… And, let me know YOUR thoughts if you read it!! 📚⭐️
May 9, 2025
To be perfectly honest, I picked this book because it promised me that my devotion to Nicholas Sparks and Karen Kingsbury would ensure this one would be for me. Um, this was false advertisting. This was equivalent to the "Non Fat yogurt" in Seinfeld (if you don't know what I am talking about, stop reading this and go watch that-Thank me later)
What am I talking about?
Nick Sparks romance you can pretty. much is going to be emotionally INTENSE (hello kissing in the row boat in the pouring rain...) TRAGIC (Yeah expect someone to die or experience some terrible illness) yet somehow uplifting....
I'm sorry, but the romance in this book felt like a business transaction. I kept waiting for the couple to whip out a legal document and sign across the dotted line. Speaking of the "couple" it was not who I was expecting to be the "couple" , but considering this is going to be a series I think we can all guess what is going to happen--don't get after me for spoiling anything, if that is a spoiler you have never read any kind of romance. The romance was so dull, I mean DOA flat....Sally Jesse Raphael-nothing.
Okay on to Karen. Similar to Sparks her stories are emotionally intense, very tragic (Baxter FAmily-omigosh) and have STRONG Christian themes. I am racking my brain....was God even mentioned? Faith? I sure don't remember it. Yes this book was "clean", but so is "Fundamentals of Thermodynamics" by Richard E. Sonntag and Claus Borgnakke.
So totally false advertising aside, this book still was not good. It was written with very choppy and segmented scenes. The dialogue felt robotic. So even if the false advertising of non fat yogurt left a few extra inches on the waist, at least you had a good experience eating the yogurt. This sadly would be equivalent to eating a bowl of sour rotten yogurt........
Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to review this advanced copy. I was not influenced or paid for my review.
What am I talking about?
Nick Sparks romance you can pretty. much is going to be emotionally INTENSE (hello kissing in the row boat in the pouring rain...) TRAGIC (Yeah expect someone to die or experience some terrible illness) yet somehow uplifting....
I'm sorry, but the romance in this book felt like a business transaction. I kept waiting for the couple to whip out a legal document and sign across the dotted line. Speaking of the "couple" it was not who I was expecting to be the "couple" , but considering this is going to be a series I think we can all guess what is going to happen--don't get after me for spoiling anything, if that is a spoiler you have never read any kind of romance. The romance was so dull, I mean DOA flat....Sally Jesse Raphael-nothing.
Okay on to Karen. Similar to Sparks her stories are emotionally intense, very tragic (Baxter FAmily-omigosh) and have STRONG Christian themes. I am racking my brain....was God even mentioned? Faith? I sure don't remember it. Yes this book was "clean", but so is "Fundamentals of Thermodynamics" by Richard E. Sonntag and Claus Borgnakke.
So totally false advertising aside, this book still was not good. It was written with very choppy and segmented scenes. The dialogue felt robotic. So even if the false advertising of non fat yogurt left a few extra inches on the waist, at least you had a good experience eating the yogurt. This sadly would be equivalent to eating a bowl of sour rotten yogurt........
Thank you NetGalley for allowing me to review this advanced copy. I was not influenced or paid for my review.
January 19, 2025
I had read Nothing by Davis Bunn before, so I jumped on this one when I saw the book jacket description. As a family, Outer Banks was a vacation destination I loved. I could get into the settings the author portrayed well throughout the story. The trouble I had was that the tale was such a slow burn, with so many characters, that it was difficult to follow.
Davis Bunn portrayed Curtis as a secretive, brooding ex-boyfriend, and I found Rae too rigid because he presented her as a fractured ex-lover as the details of their old love affair came to light.
I enjoyed the book because of the setting. However, I thought the plot and twists dragged on too long. I wanted a quick beach story that would help me wipe away the cold doldrums of a winter weekend. I wanted a vacation filled with intrigue, a story reminding me of the summers I spent in my youth in one of the most beautiful beach settings I have ever seen. Although the setting got me there, the story didn’t meet my expectations.
The slew of characters made it difficult to get overly invested in any of them, and the absentee owner failed to grab me and keep me going for more than an hour at a time.
I found the story intriguing; it was just delivered as a plot one had to track instead of getting swallowed up by twists and turns.
I gave it four stars because I finished the book. Because the ending left me wanting more, I’m hoping for a sequel from this author and would read it.
I want to thank the author, publisher, and Net Galley for the opportunity to read this as a free ARC. This review is voluntary and is mine alone.
May 2, 2025
ARC Review/Book Feature⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to @davisbunnauthor, @kensington and @uplitreads for the #gifted book.
If you’re looking for a feel-good summer read that blends mystery, romance, and personal transformation, Fortunate Harbor by Davis Bunn is a must-add to your beach bag. Set against the beautiful and breezy backdrop of the Outer Banks, this contemporary fiction novel delivers everything I love in a story: second chances, coastal charm, and just enough intrigue to keep me turning the pages.
The heart of Fortunate Harbor lies in its rekindled romance and the emotional journey of starting over. It’s a tender, hopeful tale about finding love and learning to live again after life’s storms. Bunn masterfully weaves in a legal mystery—one of my favorite elements—with the added bonus of pirate legends that give the story a fun, adventurous twist.
There’s something deeply comforting in the way this novel unfolds. The coastal mystery is intriguing but never heavy, and the legal angle adds a layer of depth without overpowering the emotional core. The characters feel real and relatable, their struggles and triumphs echoing the ups and downs of real life.
This is the kind of story that leaves you smiling, feeling a little lighter, and maybe even dreaming of your own second chance. With its seaside setting, mix of mystery and romance, and heartfelt message, Fortunate Harbor is a great pick for fans of contemporary fiction and a perfect companion for a lazy afternoon in the sun.
Thank you to @davisbunnauthor, @kensington and @uplitreads for the #gifted book.
If you’re looking for a feel-good summer read that blends mystery, romance, and personal transformation, Fortunate Harbor by Davis Bunn is a must-add to your beach bag. Set against the beautiful and breezy backdrop of the Outer Banks, this contemporary fiction novel delivers everything I love in a story: second chances, coastal charm, and just enough intrigue to keep me turning the pages.
The heart of Fortunate Harbor lies in its rekindled romance and the emotional journey of starting over. It’s a tender, hopeful tale about finding love and learning to live again after life’s storms. Bunn masterfully weaves in a legal mystery—one of my favorite elements—with the added bonus of pirate legends that give the story a fun, adventurous twist.
There’s something deeply comforting in the way this novel unfolds. The coastal mystery is intriguing but never heavy, and the legal angle adds a layer of depth without overpowering the emotional core. The characters feel real and relatable, their struggles and triumphs echoing the ups and downs of real life.
This is the kind of story that leaves you smiling, feeling a little lighter, and maybe even dreaming of your own second chance. With its seaside setting, mix of mystery and romance, and heartfelt message, Fortunate Harbor is a great pick for fans of contemporary fiction and a perfect companion for a lazy afternoon in the sun.
May 21, 2025
Fortunate Harbor is the first story in the Outer Banks series. This is the first novel by this author that I have read, and I found it to be intriguing, complex, and not quite what I was expecting from the cover description.
Curtis has come home, perhaps not so willingly, but his job places him in this area where the company he works for is building a new resort. The locals really don’t want a big corporation taking over their small town; the management of the resort is up to something no good, with bad decisions and horrible relations with the staff and the local residents. Curtis is stepping into a hornet’s nest, and perhaps he should have known it was possible, but still, the fact that his love from his time living here years ago is a force to be reckoned with, and perhaps not totally on his side.
Fortunate Harbor by Davis Bunn is complicated, intriguing, and a mystery with lots of secrets. I think there is an audience for this story, but sadly, it wasn’t me. While the basic story is good, there are so many characters in the mix, and some unexpected (for the storyline so far) twists and turns that simply didn’t thrill me. I was looking for something I didn’t find, but that’s me. You might love this type of story, so check this one out for yourself.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Curtis has come home, perhaps not so willingly, but his job places him in this area where the company he works for is building a new resort. The locals really don’t want a big corporation taking over their small town; the management of the resort is up to something no good, with bad decisions and horrible relations with the staff and the local residents. Curtis is stepping into a hornet’s nest, and perhaps he should have known it was possible, but still, the fact that his love from his time living here years ago is a force to be reckoned with, and perhaps not totally on his side.
Fortunate Harbor by Davis Bunn is complicated, intriguing, and a mystery with lots of secrets. I think there is an audience for this story, but sadly, it wasn’t me. While the basic story is good, there are so many characters in the mix, and some unexpected (for the storyline so far) twists and turns that simply didn’t thrill me. I was looking for something I didn’t find, but that’s me. You might love this type of story, so check this one out for yourself.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
May 1, 2025
3.5* There seemed to be alot to keep track of in this novel. I did enjoy it overall. The character building is stretched out through the book.
It’s a promise of better things to come . . .
With its colorful history, and miles of sand, tide, and windswept oaks, North Carolina’s Outer Banks is a paradise for locals and tourists alike. For Curtis Gage, returning after nineteen years to be the new assistant manager of a 5-star, ocean-front resort, it’s a chance to start a new life—and come to terms with an old one. This is where his father, a revered police chief, died in the line of duty. Whisked away by his mother when he was just a child, Curtis always yearned to come back and reclaim this magnificent necklace of islands as home.
But he never imagined the risks . . .
This coastal haven is in attorney Rae Alden’s blood, and the resort’s expansion is encroaching on precious Fortunate Harbor. For Rae and the old-town families she represents, their generations-old heritage is not for sale for all the money in the world. Who’d have guessed that the ordeal would tie Rae to Curtis, a childhood sweetheart whose family tragedy once converged, fatefully, with her own past? The landgrab is reuniting them in more ways than one. Because the property is more valuable than even Rae believed. The proof is in a secret deed and a long-lost map to a bona fide buried treasure.
It’s a promise of better things to come . . .
With its colorful history, and miles of sand, tide, and windswept oaks, North Carolina’s Outer Banks is a paradise for locals and tourists alike. For Curtis Gage, returning after nineteen years to be the new assistant manager of a 5-star, ocean-front resort, it’s a chance to start a new life—and come to terms with an old one. This is where his father, a revered police chief, died in the line of duty. Whisked away by his mother when he was just a child, Curtis always yearned to come back and reclaim this magnificent necklace of islands as home.
But he never imagined the risks . . .
This coastal haven is in attorney Rae Alden’s blood, and the resort’s expansion is encroaching on precious Fortunate Harbor. For Rae and the old-town families she represents, their generations-old heritage is not for sale for all the money in the world. Who’d have guessed that the ordeal would tie Rae to Curtis, a childhood sweetheart whose family tragedy once converged, fatefully, with her own past? The landgrab is reuniting them in more ways than one. Because the property is more valuable than even Rae believed. The proof is in a secret deed and a long-lost map to a bona fide buried treasure.
April 28, 2025
A new series by Davis Bunn? Yes, please.
Rae and Curtis grew up together and were each others first love. After a tragedy, Curtis leaves and as many times happens, they grow apart as they grow up. Rae went to law school and is now an attorney in Fortunate Harbor. Curtis, after another tragedy, is now the 'face' for an international business hoping to develop some property in Fortunate Harbor that does not have community backing. Rae becomes Curtis' attorney and the story takes off. With international corporate intrigue, tons of money, and possible involvement with the DEA, the story moves quickly. Will Rae and Curtis become more than friends and pick up their relationship where it left off a decade before? Will the community back the new changes and opportunities that the new company wants to bring?
With this being the first book in a new series, there are lots of players and lots to remember. I enjoy this authors ability to make everything become clear as the series moves along. The ending was a bit abrupt, but I can see 2 or 3 possible people in Fortunate Harbor becoming the headliners for the next book in this series.
I enjoyed the story and look forward for the continuation of the series.
Rae and Curtis grew up together and were each others first love. After a tragedy, Curtis leaves and as many times happens, they grow apart as they grow up. Rae went to law school and is now an attorney in Fortunate Harbor. Curtis, after another tragedy, is now the 'face' for an international business hoping to develop some property in Fortunate Harbor that does not have community backing. Rae becomes Curtis' attorney and the story takes off. With international corporate intrigue, tons of money, and possible involvement with the DEA, the story moves quickly. Will Rae and Curtis become more than friends and pick up their relationship where it left off a decade before? Will the community back the new changes and opportunities that the new company wants to bring?
With this being the first book in a new series, there are lots of players and lots to remember. I enjoy this authors ability to make everything become clear as the series moves along. The ending was a bit abrupt, but I can see 2 or 3 possible people in Fortunate Harbor becoming the headliners for the next book in this series.
I enjoyed the story and look forward for the continuation of the series.
December 28, 2025
Thank you @davisbunnauthor @kensingtonbooks @netgalley and @uplitreads for a copy of the book and this is my honest review.
FORTUNATE HARBOR takes place in the Outer Banks of North Carolina which is one of my favorite places to visit. Davis' descriptive writing of the small coastal towns and the close knit community had me right back in the Outer Banks.
Rae Alden is a lawyer who has her choice of jobs fresh out of law school but chose to return to her hometown. Curtis Gage is Rae's high school boyfriend that left town after his father's death. He has returned to Fortunate Harbor as Director of Operations of the new 5 star resort. The locals are none too happy about the resort.
Curtis enlists Rae's help in purchasing property located next to the resort and in trying to keep the locals happy. The problem is the owner of the property has gone missing. Rae and Curtis work together and find proof of a secret deed and a long lost map.
I loved Rae's character and Curtis is a bit moody but he has a sad past. The side characters are great. There are crooked dealings, talk of pirates and treasure, mystery and romance. Everything you would want to read on a lazy afternoon. FORTUNATE HARBOR is the first book in a new series and I am looking forward to the next book.
FORTUNATE HARBOR takes place in the Outer Banks of North Carolina which is one of my favorite places to visit. Davis' descriptive writing of the small coastal towns and the close knit community had me right back in the Outer Banks.
Rae Alden is a lawyer who has her choice of jobs fresh out of law school but chose to return to her hometown. Curtis Gage is Rae's high school boyfriend that left town after his father's death. He has returned to Fortunate Harbor as Director of Operations of the new 5 star resort. The locals are none too happy about the resort.
Curtis enlists Rae's help in purchasing property located next to the resort and in trying to keep the locals happy. The problem is the owner of the property has gone missing. Rae and Curtis work together and find proof of a secret deed and a long lost map.
I loved Rae's character and Curtis is a bit moody but he has a sad past. The side characters are great. There are crooked dealings, talk of pirates and treasure, mystery and romance. Everything you would want to read on a lazy afternoon. FORTUNATE HARBOR is the first book in a new series and I am looking forward to the next book.
May 17, 2025
The serene setting stole the show in this legal drama with a hint of romance and suspense. It was lovely and moody at the same time, providing the perfect storm for Curtis’s experiences as he traveled back to his seaside home in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, where his past flame still lives, as the developer of a resort. Rae is the attorney trying to prevent any unfortunate changes to her idyllic town. There was the underlying question if these two could move on from the past and embrace the future, and how they could and would throughout the story. I was pleasantly surprised by the suspense and mystery of the plot as the two discovered legends and treasures that could save both the status quo of their hometown and their love. A hypnotic mix of slow-burn suspense, drama and romance.
I had the opportunity to tandem read this in ebook, physical and audiobook formats so I didn’t have to disrupt my reading progress. Susan Bennett’s narration added to the atmospheric experience of the story, she did a great job voicing both points of view.
Many thanks to the author, the publisher Kensington and Uplit Reads for the physical and eARCs, and RB Media for the AlC.
I had the opportunity to tandem read this in ebook, physical and audiobook formats so I didn’t have to disrupt my reading progress. Susan Bennett’s narration added to the atmospheric experience of the story, she did a great job voicing both points of view.
Many thanks to the author, the publisher Kensington and Uplit Reads for the physical and eARCs, and RB Media for the AlC.
October 15, 2025
I have read several of this author's books before and thoroughly enjoyed them so when I had the opportunity to read this one (the synopsis sounded good), I jumped at the chance to do so.
Unfortunately, this novel was tough going.
Rae Alden is a woman who has spent her life living in the Outer Banks. She had a teenage love called Curtis but he was restless and needed to explore the wider world and so he left the Outer Banks, and her, behind. When he comes back, he brings an unsettling wind of change with him.
Throughout the story, I kept on feeling that I was being told a lot of facts but the emotional aspect was missing. Even when there was a romantic twist, I didn't particularly care about it and that was a shame.
There was so much that could have happened with the storyline to make it a bit more exciting but it just never really got going.
I have the second book in the series ready to read but I am not entirely sure I will be giving it a go....
3 stars from me, and only because I DO think that normally this author is a very talented writer.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books.
Unfortunately, this novel was tough going.
Rae Alden is a woman who has spent her life living in the Outer Banks. She had a teenage love called Curtis but he was restless and needed to explore the wider world and so he left the Outer Banks, and her, behind. When he comes back, he brings an unsettling wind of change with him.
Throughout the story, I kept on feeling that I was being told a lot of facts but the emotional aspect was missing. Even when there was a romantic twist, I didn't particularly care about it and that was a shame.
There was so much that could have happened with the storyline to make it a bit more exciting but it just never really got going.
I have the second book in the series ready to read but I am not entirely sure I will be giving it a go....
3 stars from me, and only because I DO think that normally this author is a very talented writer.
Thank you to NetGalley and Kensington Books.
August 29, 2025
For starters, most locals consider the Outer Banks proper to be Nags Head, Kitty Hawk, Kill Devil Hills while Atlantic Beach et al -is really more the Crystal Coast so, that was a bit off-putting. It’s quite the haul from Atlantic Beach to the true Outer Banks, btw. Add to that the misleading romantic relationships hinted in the book descriptions - basically just a high end business transaction that seems more like a cold, sterile arranged situation than a genuine love-match. Ugh. With all the revolving characters, apart from Rae, there just wasn’t any one person that I actually cared about. Since I was already disappointed by the geographic misnomers, this effort by Davis Bunn just wasn’t a success. Sometimes the misleading twists and turns don’t intrigue your readers rather they are revealed to be offensive to our intelligence. Know Thy Audience! Should be a basic tenant. At least with the Audio version this narrator is probably the finest in the business. Susan Bennet was the only saving grace with this read.
December 22, 2024
Fortunate Harbor by Davis Bunn
What I like about this authors works are that I learn new words to use and he takes me to locations I've only seen in movies. He describes them so much better than being there. There is history, architecture, fashion, food and so much more.
Starts out with Rae and she's a local lawyer in charge of Barrett's estate. The funds in the bank were enough to tend to the property but then again there were two massive hurricanes and no repairs were ever done, waiting on insurance claims. Property taxes are overdue now and she may be forced to sell it.
Story also follows Curtis a teen love she once knew from the areal I never realized just how much paperwork, judges, lawyers have to get involved in the land matters.
Hope there is another book in the series as I don't like cliff hangers.
Received this review copy from Kensington Publishing via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
What I like about this authors works are that I learn new words to use and he takes me to locations I've only seen in movies. He describes them so much better than being there. There is history, architecture, fashion, food and so much more.
Starts out with Rae and she's a local lawyer in charge of Barrett's estate. The funds in the bank were enough to tend to the property but then again there were two massive hurricanes and no repairs were ever done, waiting on insurance claims. Property taxes are overdue now and she may be forced to sell it.
Story also follows Curtis a teen love she once knew from the areal I never realized just how much paperwork, judges, lawyers have to get involved in the land matters.
Hope there is another book in the series as I don't like cliff hangers.
Received this review copy from Kensington Publishing via NetGalley and this is my honest opinion.
March 19, 2025
Meet Rae Alden, a lawyer and proud resident of her hometown in North Carolina’s Outer Banks. Enter - no re-enter Curtis Gage her childhood sweetheart, whose mother moved him a way 19 years before. Now back as the Assistant Manager of an ocean front resort not really loved by the locals. Mix together the two former sweethearts, a town proud of its heritage and land, and a business expanding into their territory and tension exists. Rae is handling the legal business of a missing resident whose home is about to be sold for back taxes. Add talks of maps, treasure along with the agenda of the resort owners and you have a very engaging romantic story that is the first of a series by Davis Bunn. This is the first novel I’ve read by the author, and I'll be seeking more. I thoroughly enjoyed Fortunate Harbor, its characters (though many) and will be looking for the next installment. Thank you NetGalley and Kensington for the ARC
April 25, 2025
3.5 stars for location!
When a man from Rae's past turns up again in Fortunate Harbor, she is surprised and confused, ready to defend. Instead of defending herself, she winds up becoming his attorney, representing him and his company in a property acquisition that no one saw coming.
I felt this book moved a bit slow for me. It was interesting, but had some characters and plotlines that seemed beyond possibility. Curtis is a good man who was dealt a rough hand in life, and his approach was stoic. I'm sure some people were rooting for Curtis and Rae to resume their long-ago relationship, but you'll have to read it to find out what really happened. International intrigue, conspiracies, corporate espionage and greed are all present in this book, makes for interest.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
When a man from Rae's past turns up again in Fortunate Harbor, she is surprised and confused, ready to defend. Instead of defending herself, she winds up becoming his attorney, representing him and his company in a property acquisition that no one saw coming.
I felt this book moved a bit slow for me. It was interesting, but had some characters and plotlines that seemed beyond possibility. Curtis is a good man who was dealt a rough hand in life, and his approach was stoic. I'm sure some people were rooting for Curtis and Rae to resume their long-ago relationship, but you'll have to read it to find out what really happened. International intrigue, conspiracies, corporate espionage and greed are all present in this book, makes for interest.
Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.
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