Summer Nights in Pine Harbor

by Tammy Robinson

The BRAND-NEW, heart-breaking 💔 and heart-mending 💖 small-town romance from INTERNATIONAL BESTSELLING author Tammy Robinson💫 A MUST-READ for fans of Kate Hewitt, Nora Roberts and TV's Virgin River! 'Just so gorgeous and heart-wrenchingly romantic.' Heidi Stephens

Under the stars, everything changes...

Twelve years after a mistake that changed everything, Taylor Calderwood returns to Pine Harbor to care for her prickly ninety-four-year-old uncle. But the quiet Maine coastal town stirs up more than memories - it brings back guilt she’s spent years trying to forget.

Jack Garrity isn’t in Pine Harbor by choice either. Bound by guilt and a promise he can’t break, he’s keeping his head down and helping a friend through the hardest chapter of her life.

Then one night, under a sky full of stars, Taylor meets Jack by the water. What begins as a chance encounter turns into late-night swims and soul-deep conversations - igniting a connection neither of them expected.

With the past pulling at their heels and the future uncertain, they must can they let go of what was to embrace what could be?

Genres: Romance

290 pages, Kindle Edition

Published January 12, 2026

About the author

Tammy Robinson is a contemporary author from the Bay of Plenty, New Zealand. After years spent working her way around the world, Tammy settled back in New Zealand, where she met her husband. They now have three children and live on a farm. She published her first six novels through Amazon before she was signed to Hachette, who published DIFFERENTLY NORMAL and PHOTOS OF YOU, with several worldwide translations. PHOTOS OF YOU has been optioned for film by LA Production company MRC Film, to be produced by Elizabeth Cantillon. Tammy's ninth book, BACK TO YOU, will be published April 27th 2021 by Hachette.

Find her on Facebook - Tammy Robinson - Author
Instagram- Tammy Robinson author
Or follow her on Twitter - @TammyRobinson76

Reviews

[Helen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A lovely romance with wonderful characters and fabulous setting, Pine Harbor, Maine summer is here, Taylor Calderwood left there twelve years ago after an accident, she married Adam and they left but now Taylor is single and her mum has begged her to return for three weeks to look after her cantankerous ninety four year old great uncle, Ray while she goes on a cruise, Taylor is now an accomplished tattoo artist and is not keen to leave her business behind in New York but Taylor arrives on her bike to the town that had meant so much to her all those years ago.

Jack Garrity has been in Pine Harbor for seven months running the restaurant and bar that his friend Hannah purchased after the death of her husband, Alex who was also Jack’s best friend Jack is bound by a promise and guilt to take care of Hannah but could this quiet town be the change that Jack needed.

When Taylor and Jack meet in a rock pool late one night they instantly hit up a friendship filled with witty banter, jests and laughs but it is not long before they are both opening up about their lives and more importantly about their past could this be the turning point for both of them and could Pine Harbor become their home?

I did love this story, it is filled with emotion and a sensual chemistry that pulled them together, and I loved Taylor and Jack and was thrilled to see them find their way to a beautiful HEA. This is one that I would highly recommend to any lover of small town romance.

My thanks to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for my digital copy to read and review.

[Leanne Mellon · Rating 4 out of 5]

Set in the scenic pine harbour Taylor returns home to look after her great uncle. Jack is new in town and is helping out a friend run a restaurant but also living on the cottage on Taylor’s mother’s property. After a chance meeting they soon realise one another have suffered great heartache and start to form a friendship.

This was such a beautifully written, sweet, tender romance about love, loss and second chances. The dual POV worked really well to get a better insight into each other the main characters thoughts and emotions. The story flowed really well, exploring deep emotions and handled some sensitive topics with care.

The side characters were worked so well into the story, the banter between Taylor and her great uncle Ray had me smiling throughout.

What a perfect read to start off my year

[ash · Rating 1 out of 5]

DNF. The dialogue was a little too cringe for me

[Ann-Maree · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summer Nights in Pine Harbor
by Tammy Robinson

This charming romance captures the essence of love and healing through captivating characters and a stunning backdrop. As summer unfolds in Pine Harbor, Maine, Taylor Calderwood makes her long-awaited return after a twelve-year absence. Now single, Taylor's mother has convinced her to come back for three weeks to care for her spirited ninety-four-year-old great uncle, Ray, while she embarks on a cruise. As a skilled tattoo artist thriving in New York, Taylor is initially hesitant to leave her business behind, but she sets off on her bike to embrace the town that once held such significance for her.

In Pine Harbor, Jack Garrity, a former LA police officer, has been establishing his new life for himself for the past seven months. He runs the restaurant and bar purchased by his widowed friend Hannah after the passing of her husband, Alex, Jack’s best friend and former working partner. Driven by a deep sense of loyalty and guilt, Jack is committed to supporting Hannah through the hardest chapter of her life. Could this tranquil town offer the transformation and new start he desperately needs?

When Taylor and Jack meet one night in a rock pool, they quickly strike up a vibrant friendship brimming with witty banter, soul-deep conversations and laughter. As they begin to share their personal stories and confront their pasts, they discover a profound connection. Could this relationship be the pivotal moment they've both been searching for, and might Pine Harbor become their true home, or will the city girl return to what is safe?

This beautifully written tale invites readers into a world filled with unforgettable characters, captivating settings, and journeys of healing and rediscovery that unfold with this author's words. It reminds us that even amid grief, joy can return in the most unexpected ways. In Pine Harbor, a small town where everyone knows each other’s stories, secrets inevitably surface, and community shines.

[Anne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summer Nights in Pine Harbor by Tammy Robinson is a romance, not a cute one, but a little more serious, although enticing none-the-less. It features Taylor, a woman who had escaped this mall town years ago and Jack, an ex-LA police officer who was here managing a restaurant. There was a story to tell and tell it Robinson did. Jack was managing the restaurant, which had been the dream of his friend Alex, another police officer who had died. In ahis arms. His wife, Hannah, decided to chase his dream, but really had no interest in it. Jack was here out of guilt. Hannah wanted more; Jack did not. Taylor was home to baby-sit her ninety-four-year-old great uncle, with whom she had a somewhat contentious relationship, although apparently good-humored. They met one night at a natural pool on the beach, both believing they were the only ones who knew about it.

Taylor’s mother had rented her cottage to Jack when he moved out of the apartment over the restaurant. The move was to discourage Hannah and he was happy with his decision. They became friends, in the evenings, out in the pool. Taylor dealt with her past and slowly came to see the benefits of this small town. Jack had seen them for a while. It was relatively slow-moving, although had a three week limit. This are interesting characters, each with a tragic past. Each slowly coming back to recovery and reality. The plot was nearly non-existent, but the path to getting to the end was fraught with feelings and situations, not to mention, other people. It was a relaxing read without being sappy. I enjoyed it.

I was invited to read Summer Nights in Pine Harbor by Boldwood Books. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #BoldwoodBooks #TammyRobinson #SummerNightsInPineHarbor

[Maddy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tammy Robinson is one of my favourite authors, and this novel shows exactly why. Beautifully written, filled with characters you instantly fall in love with, set against gorgeous, atmospheric backdrops, it delivers that rare feeling of wanting the story to go on and on. If you’re new to Tammy Robinson, go back and read them all — you truly have a treat waiting for you.

Taylor Calderwood returns to Pine Harbour to look after her cantankerous uncle while her mother goes on holiday — a real labour of love, as she has no desire to visit either her uncle or the town that holds such painful memories. Jack Garrity is running a local restaurant because of a promise he made to his late best friend, and he happens to be staying in a property owned by Taylor’s mother. When the two of them cross paths and end up taking a late night swim in a secluded rock pool, the spark between them is instant and electric. They can barely see each other, yet the attraction is undeniable.

This story swept me away from start to finish. Tammy Robinson has such a gift for creating emotional, atmospheric romances that feel both tender and deeply immersive, and Summer Nights in Pine Harbor is no exception. I adored watching Taylor and Jack’s connection unfold, and the setting itself felt like a character in its own right. Another beautiful, heartfelt novel — and yet more proof of why Tammy Robinson remains one of my absolute favourites.

[Andrea Hulme · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a lovely, sweet, easy to read story. Full of charm, romance, funny and heart warming. All set in glorious Pine Harbor during the heat of the summer.

The characters are really well written and likeable. Taylor Calderwood returns to Pine Harbor to care for her prickly ninety-four-year-old uncle, while her mother is on holiday. Jack Garrity is in Pine Harbor to keep a promise to a friend. They Taylor and Jack have a chance encounter during a late night swim and everything develops from there. Taylor's uncle has some amazing lines, yes grumpy and demanding, but also very funny and bring humour into the book that I really liked.

We are swept along in a beautiful storyline. We learn about the past lives of Taylor and Jack and how they've overcome uncertainty and difficulties. The trips down memory lane felt real and authentic.

The setting in small town, Pine Harbor, where everyone knows everything about everyone, secrets don't stay hidden for long. The town and the setting were like characters in the book.

This was a quick, easy to read book. I thoroughly enjoyed being swept along in an emotional and beautiful romance.

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood for the chance to read this in advance of publication day.

[Melanie · Rating 4 out of 5]

My sincere thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for giving me the opportunity to read Summer Nights in Pine Harbor by Tammy Robinson. I give my honest opinion of this book in the following review.

I decided to try this book because it was compared to Virgin River, which is a series I have loved. Summer Nights in Pine Harbor definitely did give those kinds of vibes. It takes place in a small coastal town popular with tourists. Taylor has come home to take care of her great-uncle while her mom is on a well-deserved vacation. She has distanced herself from her hometown and has been living in New York City. Jack is relatively new to the community. He is managing a restaurant for the widow of his best friend. Jack and Taylor meet while night swimming and hit it off from the first night. As the story rolls out, we learn about both of their backgrounds and the struggles they have gone through. It is a nice comfortable romantic read. I enjoyed both of the characters, the location, and the side characters, especially Taylor's uncle. This is my first book by Tammy Robinson, and I plan to read more.

Small Town, Crusty Uncle, Virgin River Vibes, Dealing with Grief and Loss
Open Door - mild to moderate

[Leanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tammy Robinson’s Summer Nights in Pine Harbor is a tender, heartwarming story about love, loss, and second chances. Set against the backdrop of a charming coastal town, the novel captures the bittersweet beauty of summer evenings where nostalgia and hope intertwine.

Robinson’s prose is graceful and evocative, painting Pine Harbor with a glow that feels both comforting and wistful. The characters are drawn with emotional depth—flawed, resilient, and achingly human. Their journeys of healing and rediscovery unfold with quiet power, reminding us that even in the shadow of grief, joy can return in unexpected ways.

What makes this book shine is its balance of poignancy and warmth. The romance is tender without being saccharine, the friendships feel lived-in, and the setting itself becomes a sanctuary for renewal. It’s the kind of story that lingers, leaving you with a sense of peace and a gentle ache. A beautifully written, emotionally resonant novel perfect for fans of heartfelt contemporary fiction.

With thanks to Tammy Robinson, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC.

[Joanna · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25 stars for me.

Taylor Calderwood returns to Pine Harbor to care for her older uncle Ray.She avoids coming home to often,it holds a lot of painful memories.Jack Garrity move to Pine Harbor for his friend Alex's wife Hannah.Helping her it's what at least he could do ,while also deal with the loss of his best friend. Taylor and Jack meet by the water,and what start as tentative friendship soon change to something more,but will those two trust with their hearts again?

Summer Nights in Pine Harbor was a pleasure to read.Dealing with so many emotion,from grief,love and healing.I really liked Taylor and Jack together,at first shy and going around the topic,soon open up and get honest at what they want,there was no playing unnecessary games.Cute and sweet romance,and Ray and his cranky banters add fun to the book.Great read about forgiving yourself,heal and love again.My first book by this author and hope to read more.

Thank you boldwood-books publisher and netgalley for arc,my review is honest and my own.

[Dawn H. · Rating 3 out of 5]

Summer Nights in Pine Harbor is a sweet, easy read with short chapters and very little spice. Taylor, a motorcycle riding tattooist and artist, returns to her hometown to look after her elderly great uncle while her mom takes a much needed vacation with friends. While there she meets Jack, who is managing a restaurant for a widowed friend. Sparks fly.

This is a quick read with romance and some humor. I did find it odd that there wasn’t any of the typical Maine vernacular. In Maine, no one calls a motorcycle a motorbike or the range in the kitchen a hob. There were quite a few other words and phrases that didn’t jibe with life in Maine. After checking the author’s bio I discovered she’s from New Zealand. Mystery solved. This novel could have taken place anywhere and probably should have taken place in New Zealand.

Thanks to Netgalley and Boldwood Books for the eARC in exchange for my honest feedback.

[Nana]

Twelve years leaving Pine Harbor, Taylor, returns to help care for her Uncle, while her mother is on a three-week cruise. She didn't want to come back, but she did come. She has many memories from there, some good and some were still hard to deal with. Sometimes life things you need to be somewhere else and finds a way to get them there. She has an attitude, I wish I had. She made me chuckle many times, with her comebacks, and when she meets, Jack, things really get interesting. He has an attitude that matches hers, A lot can happen in three weeks, and we are invited along to see the action as it takes place. We find out about their past, why they are in Pine Harbor, and how this friendly community, comes together, and see the things it creates. It is an amazing story, that brings laughter, a few tears, and how so much can change without noticing.
I received an ARC from Boldwood Books through NetGalley.

[Jenny · Rating 4 out of 5]

Enjoyable small town romance. Taylor returns home to Pine Harbor to stay with her 92 year old great uncle after a fall while her mom is out of town. She hasn’t been home in many years after she moved to NYC after marrying (and subsequently separating) from her local husband. While back, she befriends Jack, who is in town to help manage a restaurant his recently widowed friend bought. It’s all a little messy, but the story works. There is a bit of a love triangle between Taylor, Jack and Hannah (the restaurant owner). This story would be good if you like Virgin River or Sullivan’s Crossing. There are a couple of low-spice open door scenes that are quick and easy to skip if not your thing. Check it out.

Thank you, Boldwood Books, for providing this book for review consideration through NetGalley. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

[Patty · Rating 3 out of 5]

3.5 stars

Taylor reluctantly agrees to look after her crumpity Uncle Ray while her Mom takes a well-deserved vacation. She hasn’t been in Pune Harbor much, telling everyone she much prefers the city life and the business she owns there. But as the story unfolds, the reader sees why Taylor is not comfortable in Pine Harbor.

Jack is a bright spot in Taylor’s time in Pine Harbor. He is a former police officer who now manages a restaurant for a friend, another complicated situation. The more time they spend together has Taylor wondering if she can ever live there again. The reader watches how well they handle adversity together and how they grow. This was a sweet small town, family based romance and I enjoyed it.

Thanks to the author, publisher and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book, but my opinions are my own.

[Beth Von Voigt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Taylor returns to her hometown to take care of her great uncle while her mother goes on a much needed vacation. She hasn’t been back in many years and is dreading that just as much as her cantankerous uncle. Enter Jack who is renting a cabin from her mother. He’s also managing one of the best restaurants in town. They both come with lots of baggage and are wary of love.

This is a sweet summer romance with very little spice. It’s a slow burn, but worth the wait. I loved the banter between Taylor and her uncle. I laughed out loud quite a few times. The story does have some conflicts that are dealt with and past traumas are mentioned. The heavy topics do not bog down the romance of the story. A great read! *Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for an advance copy of the book in exchange for an honest review!

[Kirsten · Rating 4 out of 5]

A small town romance packed full of interesting characters. Told from the dual points of views of Jack and Taylor who have both moved from big cities to the small, coastal town of Pine Harbour in Maine. Jack has moved to help Hannah, the wife of his best friend, who recently died, run a cafe. Taylor has returned home to allow her mum to go on a break and look after her great uncle. Uncle Ray, often stole the show, and there were lots of fun side characters and I loved the summer arts festival. Jack and Taylor’s meet cute, swimming under the stars was romantic and I enjoyed getting to know each of them, their back stories and seeing their romance blossom. Exploring issues of grief and alcoholism sensitively but I would have liked them fleshed out a little more. A short, sweet novel with a long lasting summer romance.

[Monica Mac · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book :)

Taylor is back in her old home town, to look after her very cranky great-uncle Ray. One night she goes for a swim in the tidal pool near her home and meets Jack.

Yes, this is a romantic story (and a very spicy one at times, too!) but there is more to it than that. Both Taylor and Jack have had to overcome some things in their pasts which make them wary of relationships. But both of them are really lovely human beings who care about others in their orbit and I liked them very much.

A romantic story with depth is my favourite kind of story in this genre. And this book develops so beautifully, layer upon layer, until we get a complete picture of what these two people are all about. I also loved the secondary characters, even Taylor's ex in-law!

4.5 stars from me.

Thank you to NetGalley and Boldwood Books.

[Jessica Aranda · Rating 5 out of 5]

🐚Summer Nights In Pine Harbor gave me Virgin River vibes. It was a sweet second chance rom com with witty banter. I liked that it touched on a few serious issues such as grief and loss. I loved the FMC and MMC meet cute and how their relationship evolved. Taylor and Jack both dealt with grief and loss in their own way but somehow they were both what the other person needed to move on. The relationship between Taylor and her grumpy Uncle was absolutely hilarious. Their witty banter had me laughing alot. Despite their rocky relationship it touched my heart that he had her back when she needed it the most.
🐚This was my first book by this Author and I definitely want to read more of her books. I can’t recommend this enough!



Thank you to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for providing me with an advanced copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Sheri · Rating 5 out of 5]

Remember the feeling of the first season of Virgin River? That's exactly what you'll find here. New characters you'll instantly fall for. Uncle Ray was a personal favorite of mine. He's a grumpy elderly man who complains about everything. I loved when he and Taylor threw criticisms at each other. It's hilarious. And frequent. You can tell they genuinely care about each other underneath it all. I also loved Jack and Taylor. Their histories unravel gradually throughout the story. I loved their banter and easy way with each other.

I was delighted with this story! I'd gladly read it again as a comfort book.

Thank you to Boldwood Books and the author for the early copy! This issue my honest and voluntary review.

[Ann-Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This the first book I’ve read by this author, and it certainly won’t be the last, it’s a really good small town feel-good book.

Taylor is returning to Pine Harbor to look after her cantankerous great uncle Ray for a few weeks whilst her mother goes on a long-awaited holiday. On her first night back she encounters Jack, who manages a local bar, in her secret rock pool on the seashore. They feel a connection but both of them have secrets and difficulties to overcome – will they?

An enjoyable book, great small town feel and atmosphere, fun characters, how secrets are tantalising brought out into the open adds to magical feel of the story. Favourite character – great uncle Ray!

Thanks to Net Galley and Boldwood Books for an ARC for my honest review.

[Kristin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Summer Nights in Pine Harbor was the of Tammy Robinson's books that I've read.

I could not put this book down. The characters were all great, well maybe not Hannah. I loved the relationship between Taylor and Jack. I found myself smiling and laughing so much during this book.
The banter between Taylor and her uncle Ray was hilarious. Two people poking fun of everything each other did, in love.

There was a lot of tough subjects in this book but filled in with so much fun and love made it a wonderful book. I can't wait for book two to come out later in 2026.

Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for an ARC of Summer Nights in Pine Harbor for an honest review.

[Jaz · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book was great! It was definitely more of an emotional read. The way the characters communicated and how they delved into their past was a nice addition to the story and I liked how it gave it charm. The writing was well done in this book. The dual point of view really helps tie in the story together and it give it an added flair. I like how the there is joy despite the grand grief that took place that intertwined the characters lives so much. I recommend this book to those who are looking for a book that is emotional, warm, and healing.

Thank you to Netgalley for providing me a digital copy to review!

[What-Rian-Read · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was sold to me by the line “for the fans of Virgin River” as I LOVE that show. Whilst I watch endless small town romance I don’t often read it, so I am very glad I took the jump and requested a copy for review.

Returning to her home town 12 years since she left our main female character Taylor is faced with reacclimatising back into small town life wheee everyone knows your business. Frustrated at having to return, Taylor seeks comfort in her old haunts which is when she meets Jack. Jack is the new heartthrob in town, supporting his friend running their restaurant.

This was a beautifully written story of love, loss, grief, forgiveness and second chances. The book is a multi point of view following both Taylor and Jack, it highlight the differences in the fear each was facing. This isn’t a book you go into for spice (though there is a small amount) it is a much deeper dive into love and grief. You’ll find yourself routing for that happy ending.

A great introduction to the world of Pine Harbour and the writing of Tammy Robinson.

[Lorraine · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tammy Robinson is one of my favourite contemporary authors and I would buy a book without reading the reviews or knowing what it is about because she has never disappointed yet .

Summer Nights in Pine Harbor is the first book in the new Pine Harbor series. It is a heart warming, captivating and beautifully written novel with a cast of well drawn characters that are likeable and believable.

If you are looking for an enjoyable easy read with plenty of warm humour along the way then this book is for you.

5 stars *****

[Dawn Probert · Rating 4 out of 5]

Taylor has come home to look after her uncle ray. Returning has been somethings she has put off for years and now her hand has been forced. Her mum is off on a 3 week cruise and her 94 year old great uncle has had a fall. Life in this small town is what Taylor ran away from and the memories. She bumps into Jack, restaurant manager and her neighbour at the small inlet pool on her first night back home. Sparks fly and the tattooist, biker girl meets her match. This book is sweet, funny, sad, festive and more. Thank you NetGalley for this arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Lisa Roppel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Summer Nights in Pine Harbour is like a warm hug. It reminds me of Virgin River in the setting, characters and the plot. It is not a copy it is just the feeling. The main characters are the type of people you rote for, the landscape sounds beautiful and the plot has just enough to keep you wanting to know how it will turn out. I look forward to reading more from Tammy Robinson.

Thank you Net Galley, Tammy Robinson and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to preview this title. The opinions shared are my own.
Summer Nights in Pine Harbour is expected to be released Jan. 12, 2026.

[Barb Graham · Rating 4 out of 5]

Taylor returns home to watch her grumpy uncle while her mom goes on vacation. He expects his breakfast to be ready early and doesn't "understand the dishwasher". As Taylor tries to figure out what she is doing next, she runs into Jack at her secret swimming hole. This is a well written book with interesting characters. I enjoyed the dual point of view, and her uncle made me smile. A very sweet romance but a meaningful message. I received an advanced reader copy of this book from NetGalley, and this is my honest review.

[Barbara Tobey · Rating 4 out of 5]

A heartbreaking and heartwarming story. A small town in Maine is the third main character of this tale. I did skip the intimate scenes. Interesting characters. I thought some of the terminology was due to being in Maine. I think it is really because the author is from New Zealand. Roof for ceiling and hob are two instances that I recall. Engaging story. Thanks to the publisher for providing a copy via NetGalley. My review is voluntary.

[VickydpBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

A MUST-READ for fans of Kate Hewitt, Nora Roberts and TV's Virgin River!

It was defo a good book

Under the stars, everything changes...

Twelve years after a mistake that changed everything, Taylor Calderwood returns to Pine Harbor to care for her prickly ninety-four-year-old uncle. But the quiet Maine coastal town stirs up more than memories - it brings back guilt she’s spent years trying to forget.

Jack Garrity isn’t in Pine Harbor by choice either. Bound by guilt and a promise he can’t break, he’s keeping his head down and helping a friend through the hardest chapter of her life.

[Laurel · Rating 3 out of 5]

sweet romance with an excellent array of characters.
For me Tammy Robinson’s strength are the emotions she is able to make readers feel and the realistic characters, so you feel a part of the story, and a part of the community.
I also enjoyed the slow building romantic relationship between Taylor and Jack.
An easy read which I liked.
3.5 stars.