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Pelican Crossing #5
Safe Harbour in Pelican Crossing
After the death of her abusive husband, Erica Masters returns to Perth, eager for a fresh start and the birth of her granddaughter. But when she learns her husband has changed his Will in favour of their son, leaving her with nothing, she flees to seek refuge in Pelican Crossing, the place she once called home.
Having sold his fishing boat after a bitter divorce which left him to bring up his two teenage sons, Jamie Whittaker has found success with his fishing charter business. Thrilled by the arrival of his first grandchild, he is stunned when his teenage flame, Erica, reappears in town.
As the pair reconnect, old feelings resurface, but Erica remains guarded after her painful past. Jamie, determined to win Erica's heart once again, manages to break through her defences until a family tragedy turns their lives upside down.
With everything unravelling around them, can these two troubled souls build a future together?
If you enjoy emotional reads, you'll love this gripping tale of love and second chances.
Having sold his fishing boat after a bitter divorce which left him to bring up his two teenage sons, Jamie Whittaker has found success with his fishing charter business. Thrilled by the arrival of his first grandchild, he is stunned when his teenage flame, Erica, reappears in town.
As the pair reconnect, old feelings resurface, but Erica remains guarded after her painful past. Jamie, determined to win Erica's heart once again, manages to break through her defences until a family tragedy turns their lives upside down.
With everything unravelling around them, can these two troubled souls build a future together?
If you enjoy emotional reads, you'll love this gripping tale of love and second chances.
310 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 8, 2025
32 people are currently reading
12 people want to read
About the author
Maggie Christensen
55 books145 followersAfter a career in education, Maggie Christensen began writing contemporary women’s fiction portraying mature women facing life-changing situations. Her travels inspire her writing, be it her frequent visits to family in Oregon, USA or her home on Queensland’s beautiful Sunshine Coast. Maggie writes of mature heroines coming to terms with changes in their lives and the heroes worthy of them.
From her native Glasgow, Scotland, Maggie was lured by the call ‘Come and teach in the sun’ to Australia,where she worked as a primary school teacher, university lecturer and in educational management. Now living with her husband of thirty years on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, she loves walking on the deserted beach in the early mornings and having coffee by the river on weekends. Her days are spent surrounded by books, either reading or writing them – her idea of heaven!
She continues her love of books as a volunteer with her local library where she selects and delivers books to the housebound.
A member of Queensland Writer’s Centre, RWA, ALLi, and a local critique group, Maggie enjoys meeting her readers at book signings and library talks. In 2014 she self-published Band of Gold and The Sand Dollar, Book One in the Oregon Coast Series, in 2015, The Dreamcatcher, Book Two in the Oregon Coast Series and Broken Threads, and in 2016, Madeline House, book Three in the Oregon Coast Series
From her native Glasgow, Scotland, Maggie was lured by the call ‘Come and teach in the sun’ to Australia,where she worked as a primary school teacher, university lecturer and in educational management. Now living with her husband of thirty years on Queensland’s Sunshine Coast, she loves walking on the deserted beach in the early mornings and having coffee by the river on weekends. Her days are spent surrounded by books, either reading or writing them – her idea of heaven!
She continues her love of books as a volunteer with her local library where she selects and delivers books to the housebound.
A member of Queensland Writer’s Centre, RWA, ALLi, and a local critique group, Maggie enjoys meeting her readers at book signings and library talks. In 2014 she self-published Band of Gold and The Sand Dollar, Book One in the Oregon Coast Series, in 2015, The Dreamcatcher, Book Two in the Oregon Coast Series and Broken Threads, and in 2016, Madeline House, book Three in the Oregon Coast Series
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Displaying 1 - 25 of 25 reviews
March 30, 2025
Erica Masters left Perth, her son, daughter-in-law and granddaughter after learning her abusive husband, Geoff, had changed his will to leave everything to Kieran. She was shocked, but when Kieran said he would need to sell the family home, and Erica could move in with them, she decided a complete new start was what she needed, and Pelican Crossing on the east coast of Australia, where her brother lived and where she'd lived as a youngster, was calling to her. And as she settled into her new life in the Crossing, she realised she felt free at last.
Jamie Whittaker had lived in Pelican Crossing his whole life, was a fisherman and charter boat owner. His wife had left him with two teenage boys who had now grown into young men he was proud of; it was rough when Cindy left, but he knew he was happier without her. When he knew Erica was back in town, his memories shot back to when they were high school sweethearts. He still felt the same about Erica, but would she feel the same as him?
Safe Harbour in Pelican Crossing is the 5th in the Pelican Crossing series by Aussie author Maggie Christensen and it was nice to catch up with old "friends" from previous books. Such a closely integrated community - I'd love to visit :) Recommended.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read and review.
Jamie Whittaker had lived in Pelican Crossing his whole life, was a fisherman and charter boat owner. His wife had left him with two teenage boys who had now grown into young men he was proud of; it was rough when Cindy left, but he knew he was happier without her. When he knew Erica was back in town, his memories shot back to when they were high school sweethearts. He still felt the same about Erica, but would she feel the same as him?
Safe Harbour in Pelican Crossing is the 5th in the Pelican Crossing series by Aussie author Maggie Christensen and it was nice to catch up with old "friends" from previous books. Such a closely integrated community - I'd love to visit :) Recommended.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read and review.
April 8, 2025
We are back for another visit in Pelican Crossing and as always it is good to catch up with friends, we met Erica in the last book and after all she has been through she has made the big decision to leave Perth, her son, her daughter-in-law and her granddaughter Ava behind to move back to Pelican Crossing and start over, how will life turn out for her?
After the sudden death of her abusive husband and then the pressure her son Kieran is putting her under, Erica is very worried and knows that she needs to get away she may have trust issues especially with men and herself but she is determined that she will never be controlled again and Pelican Crossing is the place to be, arriving home feels right for Erica and soon she is renting a small cottage on the beach not realising that she is now neighbour to her first love, Jamie and if there is one thing she is sure of finding love is not on the cards.
Jamie has ever left Pelican Crossing he is running a fishing charter business is now divorced and is very close to his two adult sons and his new grandson, Archie and then he realizes that his first love is back in town and a neighbour, could it be time to find happiness again and who better than Erica, but convincing her that they would be great together is not easy, she runs hot and cold.
This is another great story in this series, Erica struggles to trust after everything she has been through but Jamie is opening her heart like he did years ago and Jamie he is such a caring and loving man will he break the walls that Erica has built around her heart?
I do recommend this one and the series, wonderful setting and wonderful characters, a story filled with heart and emotion.
My thanks to the author for my digital copy to read and review.
After the sudden death of her abusive husband and then the pressure her son Kieran is putting her under, Erica is very worried and knows that she needs to get away she may have trust issues especially with men and herself but she is determined that she will never be controlled again and Pelican Crossing is the place to be, arriving home feels right for Erica and soon she is renting a small cottage on the beach not realising that she is now neighbour to her first love, Jamie and if there is one thing she is sure of finding love is not on the cards.
Jamie has ever left Pelican Crossing he is running a fishing charter business is now divorced and is very close to his two adult sons and his new grandson, Archie and then he realizes that his first love is back in town and a neighbour, could it be time to find happiness again and who better than Erica, but convincing her that they would be great together is not easy, she runs hot and cold.
This is another great story in this series, Erica struggles to trust after everything she has been through but Jamie is opening her heart like he did years ago and Jamie he is such a caring and loving man will he break the walls that Erica has built around her heart?
I do recommend this one and the series, wonderful setting and wonderful characters, a story filled with heart and emotion.
My thanks to the author for my digital copy to read and review.
April 9, 2025
I really enjoy Second Chance Romances so immediately took the opportunity to sign up for this tour. There's something about people finding love and happiness after heartbreak that I find very appealing and Erica certainly deserved some happiness after what she'd been through.
Erica's heartbreak is quite unique to other romantic heroines stories however as although she is widowed she isn't grieving as such. Her husband was abusive and controlling so for Erica his death brought relief as she no longer has his shadow looming over her; although he deals one last blow from beyond the grave when he leaves her home to her son.
The loss of her home proves to be a blessing though as it grants Erica freedom to begin life anew. I loved watching her find herself after her husband had reduced her to a mere shell of the woman she once was. It's clear that he broke down her self worth so it was wonderful to see her rebuild her confidence.
Of course Erica is reluctant to start a new relationship, after all how can she trust her judgement after the last one? How can she be sure that it won't happen again? Well, the answer to those questions lies in the lovely Jamie Whittaker. He hasn't forgotten his first love and all Erica needs to do is open herself up to happiness again.
I did find myself wanting to shake Erica a few times as there were some silly misunderstandings that got in the way a few times and she could seem a little stubborn at times. You could attribute this to her past trauma however so I tried to give her some slack.
Overall this was a beautiful story of second chance love that also deals with some complicated issues. I think I would have benefitted from reading the other books in the series as it took me a little bit of time to get my head around all of the other characters but once I got my head around how everybody fits in the story flowed well and I found myself invested in Erica's life and happiness.
I'd just like to thank the publisher and Rachel at Rachels Random Resources for having me on the tour and for the free copy of the book to review.
Erica's heartbreak is quite unique to other romantic heroines stories however as although she is widowed she isn't grieving as such. Her husband was abusive and controlling so for Erica his death brought relief as she no longer has his shadow looming over her; although he deals one last blow from beyond the grave when he leaves her home to her son.
The loss of her home proves to be a blessing though as it grants Erica freedom to begin life anew. I loved watching her find herself after her husband had reduced her to a mere shell of the woman she once was. It's clear that he broke down her self worth so it was wonderful to see her rebuild her confidence.
Of course Erica is reluctant to start a new relationship, after all how can she trust her judgement after the last one? How can she be sure that it won't happen again? Well, the answer to those questions lies in the lovely Jamie Whittaker. He hasn't forgotten his first love and all Erica needs to do is open herself up to happiness again.
I did find myself wanting to shake Erica a few times as there were some silly misunderstandings that got in the way a few times and she could seem a little stubborn at times. You could attribute this to her past trauma however so I tried to give her some slack.
Overall this was a beautiful story of second chance love that also deals with some complicated issues. I think I would have benefitted from reading the other books in the series as it took me a little bit of time to get my head around all of the other characters but once I got my head around how everybody fits in the story flowed well and I found myself invested in Erica's life and happiness.
I'd just like to thank the publisher and Rachel at Rachels Random Resources for having me on the tour and for the free copy of the book to review.
April 22, 2025
Big thanks to Maggie for gifting us a copy to read and review.
A trip back to Pelican Crossing is a reminder that picturesque coastal towns exist and the sense of community in these places creates the atmosphere and safety for second chances.
Erica returns from Perth to start afresh.
Her controlling and abusive husband died last year when she made an attempt to escape the marriage.
His business dealings created a mess and left one final blow to Erica.
A return to Pelican Crossing was what she needed.
Seeing signs in her own son that history maybe repeating itself she vowed to keep a close eye on the welfare of her daughter in law.
Reconnecting with Jamie enabled her trust in men and love to rebuild.
The journey of love proving it has obstacles and hurdles as well as joy and fulfilment.
Always a pleasure to reacquaint with the town and its people and see what plot is awaiting me.
The happiness is offset with a dark social issue that adds authenticity and proves life isn’t a bed of roses.
A trip back to Pelican Crossing is a reminder that picturesque coastal towns exist and the sense of community in these places creates the atmosphere and safety for second chances.
Erica returns from Perth to start afresh.
Her controlling and abusive husband died last year when she made an attempt to escape the marriage.
His business dealings created a mess and left one final blow to Erica.
A return to Pelican Crossing was what she needed.
Seeing signs in her own son that history maybe repeating itself she vowed to keep a close eye on the welfare of her daughter in law.
Reconnecting with Jamie enabled her trust in men and love to rebuild.
The journey of love proving it has obstacles and hurdles as well as joy and fulfilment.
Always a pleasure to reacquaint with the town and its people and see what plot is awaiting me.
The happiness is offset with a dark social issue that adds authenticity and proves life isn’t a bed of roses.
April 8, 2025
Having returned to Perth after the death of her controlling and abusive husband, Erica finds that he’s still casting a shadow over her life. He left their home and business – a struggling one – to their son Kieran, who needs to make some changes to keep the family’s heads above water. Faced with the prospect of an uncertain future when the family home is sold, she remembers that she has a refuge, a place that already feels like home and where she’ll have a warm welcome – and travels again to Pelican Crossing, at first staying with her brother Joe, intent on making a totally fresh start. She finds a temporary home of her own on the quayside, resumes her nursing career, and rediscovers the joy she discovered in swimming with friends in the early mornings. But her life with her husband has left her damaged – lacking in confidence, slow to trust, and feeling comfortable in her new life is going to take some time. And she does also have lingering concerns about her son – and whether he might be following the example set by his father.
Jamie lives nearby – a fisherman, and owner of a charter boat business, with two adult sons also making a success of their lives – and he’s delighted to see Erica’s return. In their youth, they were a couple – and he really hopes there might be a chance of them getting close again. At first, she resists – although there’s an attraction, her experience with her husband has made her understandably wary, doubting her ability to recognise a good man from another wrong one. But he – very slowly, and particularly gently – makes her realise that she really is deserving of some future happiness, and that it might lie in them being together.
But there are family complications. Erica particularly needs to put to rest her fears that her son is being abusive with his own family, and provides a place of safety for her daughter-in-law and grandchild for a while: and Jamie has problems of his own, his former wife making an unwelcome reappearance during a family emergency. But love does finally find a way – helped along by the support of friends and the warmth of the whole community.
As always, this was a beautifully told story – a slow-build romance between two individuals I really took to my heart, both so deserving of the happiness they hope to find together. Their issues are very sensitively handled, their challenges easy to identify with, the emotional turmoil they both go through very real. There’s that real warmth to the story that I always so enjoy – the wonderful community at Pelican Crossing wrapping itself around them, helping them make the decisions that are right for them both. And the main characters are so wonderfully drawn – I could tell Jamie was exactly the partner Erica needed from the very beginning (such a lovely man!), it just took her rather longer. A perfect addition to this long-running series, and a book I’d very much recommend.
Jamie lives nearby – a fisherman, and owner of a charter boat business, with two adult sons also making a success of their lives – and he’s delighted to see Erica’s return. In their youth, they were a couple – and he really hopes there might be a chance of them getting close again. At first, she resists – although there’s an attraction, her experience with her husband has made her understandably wary, doubting her ability to recognise a good man from another wrong one. But he – very slowly, and particularly gently – makes her realise that she really is deserving of some future happiness, and that it might lie in them being together.
But there are family complications. Erica particularly needs to put to rest her fears that her son is being abusive with his own family, and provides a place of safety for her daughter-in-law and grandchild for a while: and Jamie has problems of his own, his former wife making an unwelcome reappearance during a family emergency. But love does finally find a way – helped along by the support of friends and the warmth of the whole community.
As always, this was a beautifully told story – a slow-build romance between two individuals I really took to my heart, both so deserving of the happiness they hope to find together. Their issues are very sensitively handled, their challenges easy to identify with, the emotional turmoil they both go through very real. There’s that real warmth to the story that I always so enjoy – the wonderful community at Pelican Crossing wrapping itself around them, helping them make the decisions that are right for them both. And the main characters are so wonderfully drawn – I could tell Jamie was exactly the partner Erica needed from the very beginning (such a lovely man!), it just took her rather longer. A perfect addition to this long-running series, and a book I’d very much recommend.
April 10, 2025
Two childhood sweethearts find each other after rough waters. The serene small town of Pelican Crossing marks the perfect metaphor for their second chance love.
The protagonists are thoroughly likeable. They are the older people you wish had a happy ever after, the kind you wanted as parents and grandparents. The years have erased the drama of youth and left them with the maturity and peace that makes for a stable romance. That doesn’t mean that it lacks passion or drama. It just has enough warmth to help you believe the couple will still be holding hands for years and years to come.
The protagonists are thoroughly likeable. They are the older people you wish had a happy ever after, the kind you wanted as parents and grandparents. The years have erased the drama of youth and left them with the maturity and peace that makes for a stable romance. That doesn’t mean that it lacks passion or drama. It just has enough warmth to help you believe the couple will still be holding hands for years and years to come.
April 4, 2025
I absolutely love Maggie Christensen’s books and am so enjoying this current series. One thing that I really like is how the main characters are all of a certain age so have pasts and experiences that shape their thoughts, feelings and actions. A beautiful setting, a wonderful sense of community and a wonderful cast of characters this is easy to read but also explores some tricky and emotional topics. After her abusive husband dies Erica returns to the safety of Pelican Crossing where she grew up. What she doesn’t count on is meeting up with childhood sweetheart Joe and finding that she still has feelings for him…….
April 10, 2025
Another great second chance story.
I really enjoyed the twists and turns in this story, friends being a huge part of Jamie and Erica’s friendship/relationship.
It was nice seeing family getting closer too.
I love Maggie’s stories and am now looking forward to the next one.
Thank you.
I really enjoyed the twists and turns in this story, friends being a huge part of Jamie and Erica’s friendship/relationship.
It was nice seeing family getting closer too.
I love Maggie’s stories and am now looking forward to the next one.
Thank you.
March 25, 2025
Another wonderful book by a much loved author. This book tells of a second chance at real love out of the trauma of a failed coercive control marriage, the decision to move back interstate to her former hometown and the meeting up with a childhood sweetheart. I can’t speak highly enough of this book - it truly is a “good read”.
April 6, 2025
Despite having missed a couple of the books in this series, I slipped back into the routine like I was slipping on my favourite sweatshirt and soon relaxed into the familiar sights and sounds of the local area. Maggie Christensen steers the proverbial ship through safe waters and brings it into dock without issue.
Returning to Pelican Crossing, Erica Masters is now free from her abusive husband and can now look to her future, safe in the knowledge that he can no longer hurt her. It’s easy to see how she’s been affected by her abusive relationship and how it has stripped away her self-confidence, leaving a shell of her former self standing in her place. This powerful story gives us a glimpse of life in an abusive relationship, and that was more than enough to make me grateful for my lovely husband.
As Erica returns to Pelican Crossing, she must face the fact that her former love, Jamie Whittaker, still lives in the area and runs a successful boat business. Although Erica is seemingly content to behave as though she has no romantic connection to the area, Jamie has a differing perspective and soon makes her realise that she can’t protect her heart indefinitely and that she needs to open herself up to potential happiness. I really liked Jamie’s character; he was reliable and clearly cared for her deeply despite her instinct to view herself as unlovable.
The complexities of this story are handled flawlessly by Maggie as she steers this story through some tempestuous waters. The final payoff, for me, was the suspicion of her son’s inheritance of his father’s temper. Can abuse be genetic?
I found myself rooting for the final outcome and feeling relief once all was revealed. Of course, if you want to find out more, you can follow the purchase link above.
Returning to Pelican Crossing, Erica Masters is now free from her abusive husband and can now look to her future, safe in the knowledge that he can no longer hurt her. It’s easy to see how she’s been affected by her abusive relationship and how it has stripped away her self-confidence, leaving a shell of her former self standing in her place. This powerful story gives us a glimpse of life in an abusive relationship, and that was more than enough to make me grateful for my lovely husband.
As Erica returns to Pelican Crossing, she must face the fact that her former love, Jamie Whittaker, still lives in the area and runs a successful boat business. Although Erica is seemingly content to behave as though she has no romantic connection to the area, Jamie has a differing perspective and soon makes her realise that she can’t protect her heart indefinitely and that she needs to open herself up to potential happiness. I really liked Jamie’s character; he was reliable and clearly cared for her deeply despite her instinct to view herself as unlovable.
The complexities of this story are handled flawlessly by Maggie as she steers this story through some tempestuous waters. The final payoff, for me, was the suspicion of her son’s inheritance of his father’s temper. Can abuse be genetic?
I found myself rooting for the final outcome and feeling relief once all was revealed. Of course, if you want to find out more, you can follow the purchase link above.
April 14, 2025
Oh my, my heart just broke for Erica after I’d read the opening chapter, she’s so relieved that her abuse husband is dead but now her son is trying to take his place by controlling her life.
I really want to live in Pelican Crossing after reading this book, as Erica got her fresh start I was rooting for her all the way and was hoping she got her happy ever after after all she’s been through.
All the special characters have got a place in my heart and i definitely want to read the previous books in this series and see which characters I adored have their own book.
If you want a hard hitting, emotional, romantic, cosy read then this book is for yo
I really want to live in Pelican Crossing after reading this book, as Erica got her fresh start I was rooting for her all the way and was hoping she got her happy ever after after all she’s been through.
All the special characters have got a place in my heart and i definitely want to read the previous books in this series and see which characters I adored have their own book.
If you want a hard hitting, emotional, romantic, cosy read then this book is for yo
April 20, 2025
A.Good Read
I enjoyed Erica and Jamie's story. It took Erica a while.to.trust Jamie after being married to an abusive man for many years. She finally learns to trust him
I enjoyed Erica and Jamie's story. It took Erica a while.to.trust Jamie after being married to an abusive man for many years. She finally learns to trust him
March 12, 2025
Ms. Christensen has a way of inventing amazing characters and story lines. Erica & Jamie have a past, difficult marriages, interfering family and friends that lead to a roller coaster relationship. You won’t be able to put it down.
April 10, 2025
Erica decides to return to Perth after her husband’s death. She’s finally back where she belongs and ready to start her new life.
This was an enjoyable book. I liked all the characters even when I wanted to shake Erica. Fans of second chance romance will definitely want this book on their list
This was an enjoyable book. I liked all the characters even when I wanted to shake Erica. Fans of second chance romance will definitely want this book on their list
April 13, 2025
4.5 stars
Safe Harbour in Pelican Crossing is the fifth book in the Pelican Crossing series. Erica Masters sought safety in Pelican Crossing a year ago when fleeing her abusive husband. Upon his sudden death, Erica returns to Perth, across the continent. She then learns that her husband shook things up at some point, cutting her completely out of his will, leaving her with absolutely nothing. One final slap from him to remind her who was in charge.
After finally being free of her controlling deceased husband, Erica makes the difficult decision to leave her son, daughter-in-law, and new grandbaby and return to Pelican Crossing permanently. With the changes in inheritance and worrisome changes in her son, she was not going to sit around and allow her son to treat her the same way.
Jamie Whittaker has always thought of Erica as the one who got away. They dated in their teens but that all changed when she went to Sydney to college, met and married another guy, and relocated to Perth. Her return the previous year was shrouded in mystery and his best mate and Erica's brother, Joe, kept her tight under wraps the entire time she was home, then she vanished again, back to Perth. Now that she's back in Pelican Crossing, there is hope from him and everyone who knows them, that they will reconnect.
I really enjoyed the realism in Safe Harbour in Pelican Crossing. The author delicately balanced domestic violence with care and compassion. So many people are victims of DV and I enjoyed reading about someone who is trying to get through the trauma while also trying to encourage and build up others who may be facing the same situation she had been in with her husband.
Erica's reconnection with Jamie is slow and fraught with trust issues, denial, and the inability to let go of the past. I understood Erica's hesitancy and resistance. I realize she was abused by her first husband, but Jamie's past isn't all rose petals and champagne. Both characters have emotional baggage and scars.
I absolutely love Erica through most of the book. The scene that almost changed my mind about her, though, happened during the misunderstanding near the end of the book. Jamie felt like he should apologize for something that he didn't do and wasn't his fault. Erica misread the situation and ran instead of dealing with it head-on, or at the very least, asking questions. Jamie's apology was NOT necessary and Erica should have made it clear that the situation and escalation were her fault, not his.
Jamie was very patient and understanding. I loved his character, too. Of course he was excited about Erica's return, but he didn't force himself at her. He didn't need to, really. The townsfolk took care of that quite nicely for the both of them. Small towns - am I right?! I grew up in one and everyone always knew everyone else's business.
I enjoyed the story, the characters, and the setting. I love the author's writing style and the other themes woven throughout the story. The story is written with realism, passion, and emotion. There were twists and turns, conflict, and a wonderful, mature romance.
Safe Harbour in Pelican Crossing is the fifth book in the Pelican Crossing series. Erica Masters sought safety in Pelican Crossing a year ago when fleeing her abusive husband. Upon his sudden death, Erica returns to Perth, across the continent. She then learns that her husband shook things up at some point, cutting her completely out of his will, leaving her with absolutely nothing. One final slap from him to remind her who was in charge.
After finally being free of her controlling deceased husband, Erica makes the difficult decision to leave her son, daughter-in-law, and new grandbaby and return to Pelican Crossing permanently. With the changes in inheritance and worrisome changes in her son, she was not going to sit around and allow her son to treat her the same way.
Jamie Whittaker has always thought of Erica as the one who got away. They dated in their teens but that all changed when she went to Sydney to college, met and married another guy, and relocated to Perth. Her return the previous year was shrouded in mystery and his best mate and Erica's brother, Joe, kept her tight under wraps the entire time she was home, then she vanished again, back to Perth. Now that she's back in Pelican Crossing, there is hope from him and everyone who knows them, that they will reconnect.
I really enjoyed the realism in Safe Harbour in Pelican Crossing. The author delicately balanced domestic violence with care and compassion. So many people are victims of DV and I enjoyed reading about someone who is trying to get through the trauma while also trying to encourage and build up others who may be facing the same situation she had been in with her husband.
Erica's reconnection with Jamie is slow and fraught with trust issues, denial, and the inability to let go of the past. I understood Erica's hesitancy and resistance. I realize she was abused by her first husband, but Jamie's past isn't all rose petals and champagne. Both characters have emotional baggage and scars.
I absolutely love Erica through most of the book. The scene that almost changed my mind about her, though, happened during the misunderstanding near the end of the book. Jamie felt like he should apologize for something that he didn't do and wasn't his fault. Erica misread the situation and ran instead of dealing with it head-on, or at the very least, asking questions. Jamie's apology was NOT necessary and Erica should have made it clear that the situation and escalation were her fault, not his.
Jamie was very patient and understanding. I loved his character, too. Of course he was excited about Erica's return, but he didn't force himself at her. He didn't need to, really. The townsfolk took care of that quite nicely for the both of them. Small towns - am I right?! I grew up in one and everyone always knew everyone else's business.
I enjoyed the story, the characters, and the setting. I love the author's writing style and the other themes woven throughout the story. The story is written with realism, passion, and emotion. There were twists and turns, conflict, and a wonderful, mature romance.
March 21, 2025
Safe Harbour In Pelican Crossing by Maggie Christensen is a most charming contemporary novel that I really enjoyed. It is the fifth book in the Pelican Crossing series but can be read as a stand-alone.
Each book in the series has a different character focus but they all have inter-connecting lives. It is always good to catch up with familiar faces. The reader appreciates the wisdom of Old Agnes, and applauds when characters take note of her words.
Pelican Crossing is the place where many (including this reader) want to call home. “Here in Pelican Crossing, it was as if she had a new lease of life.” Pelican Crossing is a place of community, where hurting hearts come home to heal.
Pelican Crossing is also a place of new connection and re-connection. A place where secrets are not so secret and where big hearts spread love and care.
We witness that the lives of the two main characters have not always been easy. They ‘lost’ each other in their teens and have now ‘found’ each other – but is the ending destined to be happy?
Well meaning family members give ill thought-out advice at times, and there are misunderstandings along the way.
A previously abused character returns to Pelican Crossing. Her physical scars have faded but her mental scars remain as she forever wonders if the abuse, she suffered was her fault. “I was too afraid to leave. I thought it was my fault.” Abuse is never the fault of the victim.
There is the fear that the sins of the father will be replicated in the son.
I always love Maggie Christensen’s series that are set in Pelican Crossing and the inter-linking Bellbird Bay. Locations and characters cross over. We meet an eclectic mix of people and I love the fact that the lead characters are all over fifty and have all had a variety of life experiences.
Pelican Crossing is a charming location with wonderfully warm characters and is the perfect place to plan an escape to. We all need a little Pelican Crossing in our lives.
I received a free copy from the author. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
Each book in the series has a different character focus but they all have inter-connecting lives. It is always good to catch up with familiar faces. The reader appreciates the wisdom of Old Agnes, and applauds when characters take note of her words.
Pelican Crossing is the place where many (including this reader) want to call home. “Here in Pelican Crossing, it was as if she had a new lease of life.” Pelican Crossing is a place of community, where hurting hearts come home to heal.
Pelican Crossing is also a place of new connection and re-connection. A place where secrets are not so secret and where big hearts spread love and care.
We witness that the lives of the two main characters have not always been easy. They ‘lost’ each other in their teens and have now ‘found’ each other – but is the ending destined to be happy?
Well meaning family members give ill thought-out advice at times, and there are misunderstandings along the way.
A previously abused character returns to Pelican Crossing. Her physical scars have faded but her mental scars remain as she forever wonders if the abuse, she suffered was her fault. “I was too afraid to leave. I thought it was my fault.” Abuse is never the fault of the victim.
There is the fear that the sins of the father will be replicated in the son.
I always love Maggie Christensen’s series that are set in Pelican Crossing and the inter-linking Bellbird Bay. Locations and characters cross over. We meet an eclectic mix of people and I love the fact that the lead characters are all over fifty and have all had a variety of life experiences.
Pelican Crossing is a charming location with wonderfully warm characters and is the perfect place to plan an escape to. We all need a little Pelican Crossing in our lives.
I received a free copy from the author. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
March 30, 2025
Mature couple finally gets it right?
🌅2nd chance a better chance? 🤔
An excellent and very thought-provoking second chance romance, with high school sweethearts Jamie and Erica finding each other after thirty+ years, with unhappy marriages behind them and kids and grandkids to worry over and protect.
Author Maggie Christensen doesn't gloss over the uncertainties and glitches in this romance and builds a good understanding, without going into too much detail, of the couple's rocky first marriages. Learning about a younger Jamie's daily absences from family life due to his long days as a fisherman on his dad's boat, it made me think that even a marriage with Erica in those years might have foundered had they remained together after Erica's nursing studies. At the point where they meet again as empty nesters, I could see how past problems had shaped them so they could appreciate and make time for each other. I particularly liked Jamie's steadfastness in the face of Erica's skiddish behavior.
A very realistic portrayal of the continuing pressures of family life, even after the fledglings have left the nest. And, as always with the author's novels I've read, a good community of well-meaning secondary characters (though they can be a bit pushy at times). The picturesque beachside setting didn't hurt, either!
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
🌅2nd chance a better chance? 🤔
An excellent and very thought-provoking second chance romance, with high school sweethearts Jamie and Erica finding each other after thirty+ years, with unhappy marriages behind them and kids and grandkids to worry over and protect.
Author Maggie Christensen doesn't gloss over the uncertainties and glitches in this romance and builds a good understanding, without going into too much detail, of the couple's rocky first marriages. Learning about a younger Jamie's daily absences from family life due to his long days as a fisherman on his dad's boat, it made me think that even a marriage with Erica in those years might have foundered had they remained together after Erica's nursing studies. At the point where they meet again as empty nesters, I could see how past problems had shaped them so they could appreciate and make time for each other. I particularly liked Jamie's steadfastness in the face of Erica's skiddish behavior.
A very realistic portrayal of the continuing pressures of family life, even after the fledglings have left the nest. And, as always with the author's novels I've read, a good community of well-meaning secondary characters (though they can be a bit pushy at times). The picturesque beachside setting didn't hurt, either!
I read a complimentary advance copy of the book; this is my voluntary and honest opinion.
March 22, 2025
Safe Harbour in Pelican Crossing is the fifth book in the series by Maggie Christensen , and it is indeed a safe harbour for Erica Harris , Mayor Joe's sister when she needs to build a new life following the death of her abusive husband , and the loss of her home in Perth , due to his poor business skills.
As she settles into her nursing job at the hospital , and makes new friends in the town Erica starts to enjoy her freedom to participate in many of the water activities the town has to offer. Meeting up with her childhood sweetheart rekindles feelings within her but she is wary of trusting another man and she really misses her family in left behind in Perth so questions what she is the best way forward for her.
The warmth of the community enveloped me just as it embraced Erica, helping to heal her soul after her difficult marriage. A heartwarming novel of hope and healing and I loved it .
. Thank you Maggie Christensen for an early copy to read and review
As she settles into her nursing job at the hospital , and makes new friends in the town Erica starts to enjoy her freedom to participate in many of the water activities the town has to offer. Meeting up with her childhood sweetheart rekindles feelings within her but she is wary of trusting another man and she really misses her family in left behind in Perth so questions what she is the best way forward for her.
The warmth of the community enveloped me just as it embraced Erica, helping to heal her soul after her difficult marriage. A heartwarming novel of hope and healing and I loved it .
. Thank you Maggie Christensen for an early copy to read and review
March 15, 2025
Once again Maggie Christensen has invited us into the welcoming world of Pelican Crossing where friendship, family and community rule. Along with the heart-warming possibility of a second chance at love.
Following the sudden death of her abusive husband, Erica is shocked to learn she has been left with nothing, not even the roof over her head. Denied the life she'd been looking forward to, she flees to the only place she feels safe - her childhood home of Pelican Crossing where her brother, Joe, is waiting to welcome her.
An emotional rollercoaster ensues when Erica reunites with her high school sweetheart before the title promise of a safe harbour comes true for them.
'Safe Harbour in Pelican Crossing' is a compelling, satisfying story. Thank you Maggie Christensen for allowing me the pleasure of being one of your advance readers.
Following the sudden death of her abusive husband, Erica is shocked to learn she has been left with nothing, not even the roof over her head. Denied the life she'd been looking forward to, she flees to the only place she feels safe - her childhood home of Pelican Crossing where her brother, Joe, is waiting to welcome her.
An emotional rollercoaster ensues when Erica reunites with her high school sweetheart before the title promise of a safe harbour comes true for them.
'Safe Harbour in Pelican Crossing' is a compelling, satisfying story. Thank you Maggie Christensen for allowing me the pleasure of being one of your advance readers.
April 8, 2025
A lovely second chance mature romance in the charming small town setting of Pelican Crossing. Erica, who we met in a previous story, returns to Pelican Crossing unexpectedly and permanently. She wants to start over after the death of her abusive husband. She is unwilling to form any close personal relationships, fearful of making the wrong connection and becoming trapped again. Jamie, her first love, has had his share of marital angst and has been single for many years, devoted to raising his two sons. He cares for Ericia but wonders if she will ever trust him. I like the emotional rollercoaster Ericia and Jamie experienced, the family drama, and the community that always has advice, even if it's not appreciated. It's an engaging romantic story with an authentic community.
I received a copy of this book from the author.
I received a copy of this book from the author.
March 19, 2025
Maggie Christensen has done it again! I Couldn’t put this book down and it is the perfect happy read when one wants to relax and enjoy a quiet time. Erica and Jamie renew their romance after many years apart when Erica’s abusive husband dies and Erica returns to Pelican Crossing. Jamie has had his own problems with the woman he married who up and left him with their two boys when they were very young. I love the lifestyle in this area and we are treated to mentions of life beside the sea with beach walks , swimming, boat trips and sunny days. On a wet day here, reading this made me smile.
April 4, 2025
A warm-hearted and welcoming story for Erica who returns home to Pelican Bay after her abusive husband passed away. Filled with trust issues, her reconnection with her high school sweetheart Jamie was not an easy path for her. I have to admit I was frustrated for Jamie. He was such a good guy, but I could understand her hesitation.
Once Erica settled into her nursing job at the hospital and mingled with her brother Joe's friends, and they are wonderful friends - just the kind of people I like - one would think her road to happiness would be smooth, but of course not!
Just read this book and the entire series. The stories are just so heartfelt. I love Maggie C.!!!
Once Erica settled into her nursing job at the hospital and mingled with her brother Joe's friends, and they are wonderful friends - just the kind of people I like - one would think her road to happiness would be smooth, but of course not!
Just read this book and the entire series. The stories are just so heartfelt. I love Maggie C.!!!
November 10, 2025
Erica’s life has turned upside down when her husband dies. How will she be able to carry on after some devastating news. Well written, a story not to be missed.
December 3, 2025
Another lovely story of the people of Pelican Crossing.
April 8, 2025
I absolutely love the Pelican Crossing series and ever since I read A New Dawn in Pelican Crossing last year, I have been eagerly anticipating Erica's story to be told.
Erica Master's, sister of Pelican Crossing's mayor Joe Harris, has returned to the place of her birth following the death of her abusive husband, leaving her only son and his young family back in Perth.
Erica is determined to make a new life for herself in Pelican Crossing and reconnects with an old flame, Jamie Whittaker. This budding romance is, however, not straightforward as each has a past which casts a shadow over their futures.
Erica, worrying that her past might be repeated, keeps Jamie at a distance. Jamie, not one to give up without a fight, eventually succeeds in winning her over, only for a misunderstanding to ruin everything.
Once again the warmth of the writing drew me into the story and made me feel part of the Pelican Crossing community, standing on the sidelines, watching as events unfolded.
The main characters are well drawn and sympathetic and are supported by a host of lovely minor characters, many of whom, I have met before. Old Agnes continues to be my favourite, even though she only has a very minor role in this story.
Safe Harbour in Pelican Crossing is another story which can be read as a standalone, but I guarantee you that once you've read this you'll want to read the rest of this series.
Another highly recommended read for readers who love a later in life romance.
Erica Master's, sister of Pelican Crossing's mayor Joe Harris, has returned to the place of her birth following the death of her abusive husband, leaving her only son and his young family back in Perth.
Erica is determined to make a new life for herself in Pelican Crossing and reconnects with an old flame, Jamie Whittaker. This budding romance is, however, not straightforward as each has a past which casts a shadow over their futures.
Erica, worrying that her past might be repeated, keeps Jamie at a distance. Jamie, not one to give up without a fight, eventually succeeds in winning her over, only for a misunderstanding to ruin everything.
Once again the warmth of the writing drew me into the story and made me feel part of the Pelican Crossing community, standing on the sidelines, watching as events unfolded.
The main characters are well drawn and sympathetic and are supported by a host of lovely minor characters, many of whom, I have met before. Old Agnes continues to be my favourite, even though she only has a very minor role in this story.
Safe Harbour in Pelican Crossing is another story which can be read as a standalone, but I guarantee you that once you've read this you'll want to read the rest of this series.
Another highly recommended read for readers who love a later in life romance.
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