“A moving novel about coming home, uncovering painful truths, and rediscovering the people—and the places—that truly matter.”
Birdie by the Bay is the second book in the Wynn Harbor Inn series, an inspirational series…an emotional journey about second chances, weaving together the bonds of family, the strength of friendships and the healing power of home—set on the unforgettable shores of Mackinac Island.
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Harlow Wynn has returned to Mackinac Island’s Wynn Harbor Inn, to heal from a serious car injury, with the love and support of her aunt and father.
Harlow’s husband, although not directly helping with her healing and rehabilitation, is determined to make sure she upholds her end of a lucrative contract which means flying to Vancouver to start filming within weeks. Robert, never a “warm and fuzzy” person, keeps his distance, claiming he’s busy and that his wife is better off without him “underfoot.”
Her husband isn’t the only person who is keeping their distance. Harlow is heartbroken when others she believed cared about her haven’t reached out to check on her and find out how she’s doing. At her aunt’s prompting, she makes a few calls, only to discover there’s a reason Harlow hasn’t heard from her friends.
The more Harlow digs, the more her idyllic life starts to crumble. Fame and fortune are turning into a stumbling block, forcing her to reassess her life and everyone in it.
Despite the upheaval, she has found a silver-lining. Mackinac Island, the one place she vowed never to return to, becomes her refuge. Carving out a future on an island that time forgot might be exactly what Harlow Wynn so desperately needs.
Hope Callaghan is the author of many great series, Wynn Harbor Inn is her new series. I was hooked after I heard she was writing a series that some of the characters from the Easton Island series. Which is another excellent series by Hope Callaghan. Being from Michigan, we're all very proud of our Mackinac Island. It is a beautiful island between upper & lower Michigan where motor vehicles are prohibited. Wynn Harbor Inn series, is located on beautiful Mackinac Island. The first book from this series started with the car crash in California of a very popular movie star whose name is Harlow Wynn. Harlow is originally from Mackinac Island where her parents owned a popular inn. An arson fire destroyed the Inn and Harlow's mother died in that fire. Harlow blamed her Dad for the fire and vowed to never set foot on the Island again. After Harlow's car crash, her manager/husband said he didn't like to be around sick people. He didn't believe she really needed time to recover, since she had a starring roll in a film starting soon and told her she better be there on time. Harlow's best friend from the Island & her father came and Harlow returned to Mackinac Island to recuperate. Harlow didn't hear from her husband, Roger unless she called him. Her fears what he might be up to were likely true after Harlow heard what was going on from her friend in California. Harlow 's Aunt Birdie never minced words and she and Harlow's Dad thought Roger was a scoundrel and decided to prove it. The story is much more exciting than my review, believe me. I read Birdie by the Bay in one sitting it was so good! There is mystery, intrigue, resentment, reconciliation and love in Wynn Harbors Birdie by the Bay. Something for everyone, if you have read any of Hope Callaghan's series, you will definitely want to read series too! You don't want to miss this exciting story by one of today's Best and Favorite Authors!
Wynn Harbor Inn, the newest series by Hope Callaghan is an amazing story, in books you want to read cover to cover without a break. This second book in the story picks up with Harlow Wynn, a Hollywood star, recovering at the home of her father, David Wynn, on Mackinac Island after being seriously injured in a car accident. Book 1 focused on repairing the relationship with her father after their family Inn burned down in a fire claiming her mother's life. At the same time, Harlow's eyes were opened to the reality of the failing of her marriage to Robert.
This time, we learn with more detail the lengths that Robert is going through to destroy Harlow's reputation and destroy her. However, Harlow's life is taking a change of it's own. The magic of Mackinac Island, it's healing peace and serenity and the tender grace of friends old and new and giving her the strength to clearly see what is really happening and steps she needs to take to gain control back on her own life.
Each chapter is filled with exciting storytelling that casts you deeper into the story being told. Characters become real. You find yourself reading faster, turning pages as quickly as possible to learn what's waiting around the bend until, before you know it, you've landed on the last page, anxiously awaiting the next book to be released so you can continue on with Harlow and her father and friends to the next chapter in her story.
I liked this book. Good story and interesting characters.
Amazon synopsis: Harlow Wynn has returned to Mackinac Island’s Wynn Harbor Inn, to heal from a serious car injury, with the love and support of her aunt and father.
Harlow’s husband, although not directly helping with her healing and rehabilitation, is determined to make sure she upholds her end of a lucrative contract which means flying to Vancouver to start filming within weeks. Robert, never a “warm and fuzzy” person, keeps his distance, claiming he’s busy and that his wife is better off without him “underfoot.”
Her husband isn’t the only person who is keeping their distance. Harlow is heartbroken when others she believed cared about her haven’t reached out to check on her and find out how she’s doing. At her aunt’s prompting, she makes a few calls, only to discover there’s a reason Harlow hasn’t heard from her friends.
The more Harlow digs, the more her idyllic life starts to crumble. Fame and fortune are turning into a stumbling block, forcing her to reassess her life and everyone in it.
Despite the upheaval, she has found a silver-lining. Mackinac Island, the one place she vowed never to return to, becomes her refuge. Carving out a future on an island that time forgot might be exactly what Harlow Wynn so desperately needs.
Another 5 ⭐️ by Callaghan, of course. I’ve got dozens of favorite authors and Callaghan is in my top 5. Her stories are always warm, inviting, and homey.
Callaghan always begins her books with a “Cast of Characters” that lists all the main characters, who they are and how they relate to the story.
We begin with the meeting of Aunt Birdie, Harlow Wynn’s father’s sister. Harlow is who this series revolves around. Harlow is a superstar actress who got into a car accident that nearly killed her. She is unable to walk and confined to a wheelchair and power scooters; however, from her ongoing physical therapy she is recovering quickly and will walk again soon.
Harlow is finding out about her scheming husband, Robert. Robert is basically using Harlow for her money she brings in and it is A LOT of money. Robert is not with Harlow taking care of her. Nope, Robert is not only difficult to reach - unless it’s for a reason that benefits his posh lifestyle that Harlow provides - he also is most likely cheating on Harlow with his personal assistant (and maybe several more women).
Harlow is recovering from her accident at her dad’s home on Mackinac Island. Robert refused to help because he said he isn’t into being a nurse. Um, that’s your wife, dude! Harlow is finding out more schemey things about her husband almost daily, like how he cancelled her credit cards and emptied most of her bank accounts. He is also spreading rumors about her mental health and how she’s unstable. Harlow suspects he may be preparing to be her guardian due to her mental instability. Basically, he’s trying to take over her assets by deeming her incompetent. He also thinks she is faking her injuries.
It’s all a mess and honestly I get pretty angry whenever I see something new he’s doing that is bad. I absolutely despise it when people are taken advantage of and not much makes me more enraged!
So back to Aunt Birdie, she was on an around the world cruise when she heard about Harlow’s accident, so she put a halt on finishing and moved to the island to help Harlow while she recovers. Birdie is a free spirit all the way and I believe you’ll love her as much as I do.
Harlow is doing better and was able to walk a little, albeit on noodley legs. She’ll be up and at em in probably two months more! She signed a contract for a new movie deal and they extended the contract due to her accident, so she’s got 3 weeks to heal enough to star in her role. She is considering staying on Mackinac permanently or at least move back once she’s done with her role. She has fallen in love with the island’s own magic.
I swear the island is so magic that I want to move there myself! It sounds like a wonderful place. I’d love to hang out with Harlow, David (Harlow’s dad), Aunt Birdie, Eryn, Lottie, and Caleb. Lottie is David’s good friend and also his gardener. Caleb? He is the fire chief and isn’t quite relevant yet, but if I know the author like I think I do, Harlow and Caleb will wind up falling in love. ❤️
Caleb is only briefly mentioned a few times. Harlow and Caleb used to date when they were younger and before Harlow became a star. Harlow was in love with Caleb, but when Caleb joined the military leaving her behind, Harlow waited for him 2 years before she moved on and married Robert. So there’s unresolved issues with them, but it’s obvious Harlow still loves Caleb and he may even still love her.
Anything else you want to know about this story, check out my previous review from book 1.
See you in my next book thoughts review. Stay happy. Stay humble. Stay blessed. And keep the magic! Deuces to your cabooses! ✨🌟💋🌟✨
A cozy mystery series with a famous Michigan setting - Mackinac Island and connection to the Easton Island Family Saga series. Mackinac Island hasn’t lost its magic, it sparkle, and ability to draw you in. This Michigander was delighted with the descriptive setting details. Birdie by the Bay is a page turning read with relatable characters: Harlow, her best friend Jillian, her father David Wynn and Aunt Birdie.
The FIRE had affected them in so many ways. Destroyed so many dreams. Created much heartbreak. As Harlow ponders her mother’s death and reflects on her loss, will Harlow solve the mystery. Lots of foreshadowing for Book 3 Wynns of Change.
As Harlow begins to heal, she makes friend with the Magnificent Mackies. Arm chair travel and a mystery plus family drama (Harlow and her money grabbing, cheating, despicable husband Robert Barbetz) makes for a delightful beach read. Recipe for Chicken Bacon Ranch Casserole included.
After a serious accident, Harlow returns to her father's house to heal. In the process of healing, she begins to acknowledge that her husband is acting suspicious and soon finds evidence that he has taken measures to isolate her from friends. As Harlow reconnects with important people in her life, she realizes that the people most important to her have long been suspicious of her husband. Old friends, and new friends surround her with support as she makes hard decisions.
You remember Harlow Wynn. Ms. Callaghan has mentioned her in a couple of her books. Well, to be fair the book is also about her father, David’s sister, Birdie. It’s an awesome story. I think everybody will find something about it to enjoy. It’s about knowing what you need, desire and have and then finding out what you thought wasn’t reality. So good knowing we’re not alone in life.
Oh my Goodness Hope Callaghan never fails. I couldn’t dream that her books could get any better. But she has definitely left me once again very curious and ready to read the next book in this series. The Characters are Awesome and the storyline is very interesting. What or who is going to happen? Well with this series we must just read on. Definitely recommend this series.
I’m not usually a fan of this type of book, I’m more into Agatha Christie and Hope’s other novels, especially the Millie series, but this was excellent! A couple of small factual errors, but didn’t interfere with reading the book. Can’t wait for the new one to be released in October!
Harlow is trying to recuperate on Mackinac island and her husband keeps sending people to investigate her. Robert told her publicist and her body that Harlow didn't need them anymore. Mackinac island is laid-back and Harlow is recovering nicely except for her husband's interference.
Book two in this series. Harlow hangs out on the island with her dad and continues to heal from her car crash. Aunt Birdie joins her, to her delight and together they make new friends! She even becomes a Mackie! What’s that? Read and find out!
Continuation of the series. This book begins immediately after the last. Harlow is continuing to heal from her injuries and reconnect with life in Wynn Harbor. The focus of this story is her marriage and the actions of her husband.
Another wonderful series from Hope Callaghan! I have read all of her books and series and this new one is just as good as all the others. Can't wait for the next book to be released!!
Wow! What an intriguing book. The characters are so interesting and I was so enthusiastic to finish reading it. It was an excellent read and I am excited for the next one to come out. Robert isn’t going to know what’s coming.
Harlow is moving slong on her road to recovery- both physical and emotional as she takes a hard look at her life, family and friends. Lovely continuation of a journey of rediscovery.
Hope Callaghan has done it again!! She cranks our story after captivating story, all the time . Her characters and storylines keep you wanting more. You can’t put the book down and anticipate the release of the next one!
Just finished book 2 in the Wynn Harbor Inn series and I can't wait for the next installment. The movie star is making some hard decisions about her marriage and career. The characters are always so believable in Ms Callaghan's books.
I like the way the characters are evolving. The attention to details from the island and surroundings makes me feel like I am there. Already looking forward the next book.
Hope Callaghan is my favorite author by far. This new series is exceptionally good. I couldn’t put it down. I’m sad I have to wait until October for the next book! Please keep writing!
Nice read though dislike that it ended as it did. Interesting reading how a famous person lives and pressure they feel. Nice to read about a much relaxed life o .n island and the friendships being made.
I love her stories. They are an easy read with different plot twist. I can sit, read and relax. She makes it where you want to keep reading p!is relates it to another serie.
Very engrossing. I was always on edge from one chapter to the next. And yet, I didn't want the story to end. Now, I have to wait a few months for the next book to come.
I absolutely loved reading this book Wynn Harbor: Birdie by the Bay. It is great all the way through it. I'm getting ready to read the second book now.