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Pelican Crossing #9
Finding Forever in Pelican Crossing
Not yet published
Expected 6 Aug 26When Paige Harper arrives in Pelican Crossing to visit her ailing grandmother, she plans a short trip—just enough time to make sure her grandmother recovers before heading back to her busy city life. But when her grandmother unexpectedly passes away, Paige is hesitant to leave the small coastal town, unable to shake the pull of its quiet charm.
Bob Reed, the laid-back local vet, has settled back into his life in Pelican Crossing after spending a year at Colorado University. He is surprised when he receives an offer to apply for a permanent position at the university—a tempting opportunity to embrace a very different path. Torn between his love for the peaceful coastal life and the draw of a more structured, academic future, Bob faces a tough choice.
When Paige and Bob cross paths, they’re worlds apart—she, the city professional, and he, the easy-going surfer. But a series of unexpected encounters brings them closer, and what begins as an unlikely friendship turns into something much more.
With Bob facing a career-defining decision and Paige bound to her life in the city, they must determine if their newfound connection is strong enough to overcome the obstacles in their way. Can they find a way to be together, or will the demands of their separate lives keep them apart?
For fans of small-town romances and heartwarming stories of unexpected love.
Bob Reed, the laid-back local vet, has settled back into his life in Pelican Crossing after spending a year at Colorado University. He is surprised when he receives an offer to apply for a permanent position at the university—a tempting opportunity to embrace a very different path. Torn between his love for the peaceful coastal life and the draw of a more structured, academic future, Bob faces a tough choice.
When Paige and Bob cross paths, they’re worlds apart—she, the city professional, and he, the easy-going surfer. But a series of unexpected encounters brings them closer, and what begins as an unlikely friendship turns into something much more.
With Bob facing a career-defining decision and Paige bound to her life in the city, they must determine if their newfound connection is strong enough to overcome the obstacles in their way. Can they find a way to be together, or will the demands of their separate lives keep them apart?
For fans of small-town romances and heartwarming stories of unexpected love.
290 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication August 6, 2026
About the author
Maggie Christensen
75 books149 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 - 13 of 13 reviews
July 28, 2026
The is such a great series that focuses on people finding love later in life. All the main characters have had life experiences that make them wary about becoming involved again. Maggie deals with topics such as divorce, family dynamics and grief so sensitively. In this latest instalment we meet Paige Harper who returns to Pelican Crossing when her grandmother dies. She has fond memories of her visits to see her grandmother but her life, including her children, is in Brisbane and even though she has been very welcomed and made friends she can’t imagine moving to Pelican Crossing. Then she meets local vet Bob Reed and there is an instant attraction. As their friendship develops will it change her mind about leaving the coastal town and can she actually see herself making a new life for herself there? One thing I really like about about this series is the sense of community, how everyone looks out for each other but also how Maggie makes it easy to work out who is who and how they are connected, especially if you’ve not read any of the previous books.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Finding Forever In Pelican Crossing by Maggie Christensen is the charming tenth book in the wonderful Pelican Crossing series but can be read as a stand-alone.
Once more the reader is delighted to return to the tranquil Pelican Crossing where the welcome is warm as the locals offer hospitality and friendship to all.
Catching up with familiar faces and locations, and meeting new ones is always a pure delight.
The reason for a character rushing to Pelican Crossing is an accident has befallen her beloved Mimi. Fifty-year-old Paige finds herself at a crossroads in life. Pelican Crossing offers peace and care whilst her heart heals from grief. We ‘feel’ the pain of sudden loss – for me, it was all too raw, as my ninety-five-year-old Dad died suddenly and unexpectedly recently, very similar to the character in the book. I could easily empathise, grief is not linear, it comes in waves.
Pelican Crossing is a community that offers care where it can. Lives are supported – and everyone knows your business which is far preferable to the anonymity of a big city.
Grown up children are quick to consign their mother to the pipe and slippers brigade. This was reminiscent of the grown-up children in the movie with Jane Wyman and Rock Hudson, All That Heaven Allows buying their mother a television for company. Life is for living whatever your age. Grown up children show that they can be very selfish – taking and taking from a mother, without any thought to her needs.
Life offers choices and we need to choose wisely.
The sun, sea and surf come to life under Maggie Christensen’s marvellous pen. The reader can almost ‘feel’ the heat. We are treated to new experiences, along with the reader.
Animals turn a house into a home. A small dog called Martha has a big personality, offering warmth to all.
We witness characters bravely dipping their toes into the waters of new relationships.
As a beach house receives a make-over, characters’ lives do too.
Finding Forever In Pelican Crossing was a most delightful offering – grab yourself a copy today and receive a warm welcome.
I received a free copy from the author. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
Once more the reader is delighted to return to the tranquil Pelican Crossing where the welcome is warm as the locals offer hospitality and friendship to all.
Catching up with familiar faces and locations, and meeting new ones is always a pure delight.
The reason for a character rushing to Pelican Crossing is an accident has befallen her beloved Mimi. Fifty-year-old Paige finds herself at a crossroads in life. Pelican Crossing offers peace and care whilst her heart heals from grief. We ‘feel’ the pain of sudden loss – for me, it was all too raw, as my ninety-five-year-old Dad died suddenly and unexpectedly recently, very similar to the character in the book. I could easily empathise, grief is not linear, it comes in waves.
Pelican Crossing is a community that offers care where it can. Lives are supported – and everyone knows your business which is far preferable to the anonymity of a big city.
Grown up children are quick to consign their mother to the pipe and slippers brigade. This was reminiscent of the grown-up children in the movie with Jane Wyman and Rock Hudson, All That Heaven Allows buying their mother a television for company. Life is for living whatever your age. Grown up children show that they can be very selfish – taking and taking from a mother, without any thought to her needs.
Life offers choices and we need to choose wisely.
The sun, sea and surf come to life under Maggie Christensen’s marvellous pen. The reader can almost ‘feel’ the heat. We are treated to new experiences, along with the reader.
Animals turn a house into a home. A small dog called Martha has a big personality, offering warmth to all.
We witness characters bravely dipping their toes into the waters of new relationships.
As a beach house receives a make-over, characters’ lives do too.
Finding Forever In Pelican Crossing was a most delightful offering – grab yourself a copy today and receive a warm welcome.
I received a free copy from the author. A favourable review was not required. All opinions are my own.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5★s
When Paige Harper learned her elderly grandmother had had a fall and was in hospital, she took leave from her job and headed straight to Pelican Crossing. A four hour drive north from Brisbane, Paige went straight to the hospital when she arrived in town, learning Mimi was in a coma. Paige sat with her, talking quietly to the unresponsive grandmother she had loved so deeply for so long, hoping Mimi would recover. Looking after Mimi's little dog, Martha and staying in her cottage, Paige felt so many memories surround her.
Bob Reed was the local Pelican Crossing vet, and when Paige arrived with Martha, for the appointment on Mimi's calendar, they both clicked, becoming friends almost immediately. Bob had a decision to make about a job in the US; Paige would need to return to her high-flying job in Brisbane. As Paige met with many of the friendly locals, all of whom knew Mimi, she was blown away by the comfort and friendships offered. What would be the outcome for Paige & Bob with the events occurring in Pelican Crossing?
Finding Forever in Pelican Crossing is the 9th in the Pelican Crossing series, and this one is Paige & Bob's story. Pelican Crossing is a delightful seaside town, filled with friendly folk who care for one another. They all have their different lives, most of which we've read about in the earlier books in the series. Josh was a sweetheart, Martha was adorable while old Agnes has a new puppy after Lady passed. This series is heartwarming, and #9 is no different. Highly recommended.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read and review.
When Paige Harper learned her elderly grandmother had had a fall and was in hospital, she took leave from her job and headed straight to Pelican Crossing. A four hour drive north from Brisbane, Paige went straight to the hospital when she arrived in town, learning Mimi was in a coma. Paige sat with her, talking quietly to the unresponsive grandmother she had loved so deeply for so long, hoping Mimi would recover. Looking after Mimi's little dog, Martha and staying in her cottage, Paige felt so many memories surround her.
Bob Reed was the local Pelican Crossing vet, and when Paige arrived with Martha, for the appointment on Mimi's calendar, they both clicked, becoming friends almost immediately. Bob had a decision to make about a job in the US; Paige would need to return to her high-flying job in Brisbane. As Paige met with many of the friendly locals, all of whom knew Mimi, she was blown away by the comfort and friendships offered. What would be the outcome for Paige & Bob with the events occurring in Pelican Crossing?
Finding Forever in Pelican Crossing is the 9th in the Pelican Crossing series, and this one is Paige & Bob's story. Pelican Crossing is a delightful seaside town, filled with friendly folk who care for one another. They all have their different lives, most of which we've read about in the earlier books in the series. Josh was a sweetheart, Martha was adorable while old Agnes has a new puppy after Lady passed. This series is heartwarming, and #9 is no different. Highly recommended.
With thanks to the author for my digital ARC to read and review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I have been completely captivated by Maggie Christensen's Pelican Crossing series eversince I read book #3 A New Dawn in Pelican Crossing. I love the book covers and blurbs for this series which conjure up a close-knit, idyllic, community-minded coastal town with lots of wonderful characters whose mature romance stories I can relate to.
Finding Forever in Pelican Crossing sees local vet Bob Reed putting the past behind him and embarking on a journey with out-of-towner Paige Harper. Naturally their path to happiness is not uncomplicated, and I only correctly guessed one of the plot twists which was a key factor in keeping them apart.
I was immediately immersed in this story. The familar setting of Pelican Crossing; the expanding group of mature characters whose backstories I already know; I felt delighted to be beginning this new story. I find the warmth of the writing embraces me like an old friend arriving home after a long trip away.
My favourite character is still old Agnes, the pelican lady who makes a cameo appearance in each of the novels in the Pelican Crossing series. I love piecing together a puzzle, and Agnes has me intrigued. In this story, I gleaned a few more snippets of information with regard to her age and friendship group and feel I'm getting closer to understanding her fully.
I am reminded that I bought books #1 and #2 in this series, The Restaurant in Pelican Crossing and Secrets in Pelican Crossing, some time ago and have not yet made time to enjoy them. However, each of these stories is designed to be read as a standalone, so it matters not, in which order I read them. And I very much look forward to doing so shortly.
Highly recommended to readers who enjoy a later in life romance.
Finding Forever in Pelican Crossing sees local vet Bob Reed putting the past behind him and embarking on a journey with out-of-towner Paige Harper. Naturally their path to happiness is not uncomplicated, and I only correctly guessed one of the plot twists which was a key factor in keeping them apart.
I was immediately immersed in this story. The familar setting of Pelican Crossing; the expanding group of mature characters whose backstories I already know; I felt delighted to be beginning this new story. I find the warmth of the writing embraces me like an old friend arriving home after a long trip away.
My favourite character is still old Agnes, the pelican lady who makes a cameo appearance in each of the novels in the Pelican Crossing series. I love piecing together a puzzle, and Agnes has me intrigued. In this story, I gleaned a few more snippets of information with regard to her age and friendship group and feel I'm getting closer to understanding her fully.
I am reminded that I bought books #1 and #2 in this series, The Restaurant in Pelican Crossing and Secrets in Pelican Crossing, some time ago and have not yet made time to enjoy them. However, each of these stories is designed to be read as a standalone, so it matters not, in which order I read them. And I very much look forward to doing so shortly.
Highly recommended to readers who enjoy a later in life romance.
Review of advance copy received from Author
‘Finding Forever in Pelican Crossing’ is another beautiful, heart-warming, second chance romance from Maggie Christensen. While Paige and her family are new characters for us to know and love, Bob and the residents of Pelican Crossing are old friends it is a pleasure to meet again.
Paige and Bob have each been alone for a long time and neither is looking for a new relationship; but Bob, surrounded by friends who’ve found later-in-life new love and happiness, is open to the possibility. Paige is more cautious. A single woman of fifty has to be. She, literally, cannot afford to throw away her hard-won security on a new love which may let her down as badly as her old love did.
Whether you’re new to Maggie Christensen’s wonderful stories of love, happiness, and family, or one of her regular readers, you absolutely need to read ‘Finding Forever in Pelican Crossing’ to share the love growing between Paige and Bob and discover how they navigate their way through the obstacles that stand in their path to happiness.
Thank you, Maggie, for allowing me to read an advance copy of ‘Finding Forever in Pelican Crossing’.
Paige and Bob have each been alone for a long time and neither is looking for a new relationship; but Bob, surrounded by friends who’ve found later-in-life new love and happiness, is open to the possibility. Paige is more cautious. A single woman of fifty has to be. She, literally, cannot afford to throw away her hard-won security on a new love which may let her down as badly as her old love did.
Whether you’re new to Maggie Christensen’s wonderful stories of love, happiness, and family, or one of her regular readers, you absolutely need to read ‘Finding Forever in Pelican Crossing’ to share the love growing between Paige and Bob and discover how they navigate their way through the obstacles that stand in their path to happiness.
Thank you, Maggie, for allowing me to read an advance copy of ‘Finding Forever in Pelican Crossing’.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Big thanks to Maggie for gifting us a copy to read and review.
It’s a bit concerning and alarming when the second chance mature characters are now younger than myself and their adult kids think you’re too old for a chance of happiness.
The continuum of life is so wonderfully portrayed in this series and the majestic setting makes for an inner harmony.
Paige has just turned 50 and at a peak in her career in Brisbane.
The death of her beloved grand mother acts as a spiral for a new direction. The peace and tranquility, the companionship of the bequeathed dog and a chance for a romance are up against financial security, grandkids and career.
Meeting Bob allows her to invest in some intimacy and hope.
The drawstrings to reality quash such thoughts.
This series always satisfies my reading palate and not only do we meet new comers we get to reacquaint with cast from previous books.
A lovely way to escape our dreary winter and enjoy second chances.
It’s a bit concerning and alarming when the second chance mature characters are now younger than myself and their adult kids think you’re too old for a chance of happiness.
The continuum of life is so wonderfully portrayed in this series and the majestic setting makes for an inner harmony.
Paige has just turned 50 and at a peak in her career in Brisbane.
The death of her beloved grand mother acts as a spiral for a new direction. The peace and tranquility, the companionship of the bequeathed dog and a chance for a romance are up against financial security, grandkids and career.
Meeting Bob allows her to invest in some intimacy and hope.
The drawstrings to reality quash such thoughts.
This series always satisfies my reading palate and not only do we meet new comers we get to reacquaint with cast from previous books.
A lovely way to escape our dreary winter and enjoy second chances.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Paige's visit to her ill grandmother turns out to be a protracted stay which gives her the opportunity to re-evaluate her life and hopes for the future. Her work in the city in the hotel trade has been her main focus and she has let family links fall somewhat. She recognises in Pelican Crossing a community she begins to feel part of and some growing friendships take her by surprise. In particular, she finds herself attracted to the local vet, Bob, who himself is torn between a new life in America and staying in Pelican Crossing where he is very content.
The reactions of Paige's grown-up children takes her by surprise and their selfish attitude becomes clear to her. This visit to Pelican Crossing shows the benefit of friendship and community along with second chance romance and having the courage to start again.
In short: later love and a new start
The reactions of Paige's grown-up children takes her by surprise and their selfish attitude becomes clear to her. This visit to Pelican Crossing shows the benefit of friendship and community along with second chance romance and having the courage to start again.
In short: later love and a new start
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you Maggie for an advanced copy of this book.
I can't believe this is the ninth book of the Pelican Crossing series. Maggie has built up a great community of characters in all these books that I have got to know and its always a pleasure to welcome someone new.
Paige comes to Pelican Crossing when her grandmother is ill in hospital and she has to take care of Martha, her Grandmother's little dog. Paige is adamant that she will return to her busy life in Brisbane where she is a hotel manager and where her two grown up children live.
As she spends more time in the small coastal town and is welcomed by everyone she meets, will life turn out the way she thought?
You can read these books in any order and you can also read as a standalone.
I can't believe this is the ninth book of the Pelican Crossing series. Maggie has built up a great community of characters in all these books that I have got to know and its always a pleasure to welcome someone new.
Paige comes to Pelican Crossing when her grandmother is ill in hospital and she has to take care of Martha, her Grandmother's little dog. Paige is adamant that she will return to her busy life in Brisbane where she is a hotel manager and where her two grown up children live.
As she spends more time in the small coastal town and is welcomed by everyone she meets, will life turn out the way she thought?
You can read these books in any order and you can also read as a standalone.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is another delightful addition to the charming Pelican Crossing series. Bob is the wonderful vet we've met in previous books, but Maggie offers Paige, a new character, who returns to the beautiful seaside town when her grandmother lands in the hospital. Both mature characters, their journey to together is more cautious than most romance books today. I also enjoy catching up with friends from the previous stories. They are all so welcoming. Thanks, Maggie, for creating Pelican Crossing which sounds like an ideal spot to live. I heartily recommend this entire series!!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I love Maggies stories from Pelican Crossing. I feel like I'm part of the community, getting to know a new character. This book introduces a new character, Paige who is visiting Pelican Crossing for her grandmother's funeral. We also get to know Bob, the local vet who has appeared in previous books. As these two get to know each other they both struggle with dilemmas that not infrequently are faced by mature women and men. Whether you are already familiar with Maggie's work or a newcomer, you will love this story set in a beautiful Australian coastal town. I read it in 3 days!
Review of advance copy
It’s very comforting to visit the folks in Pelican Crossing once again. I wouldn’t mind moving there personally.
Paige arrives in sorrow but soon finds companionship in Martha, who was my favorite, and Bob, another one of my favorites.
Bob fell for Paige but she has some hard decisions to make.
My heart broke for Bob as he seems to be losing out on something good.
But life has a way of turning the tides and there is another happy ending in PC.
Thanks Rachel’s Random Resource for the advance copy.
Paige arrives in sorrow but soon finds companionship in Martha, who was my favorite, and Bob, another one of my favorites.
Bob fell for Paige but she has some hard decisions to make.
My heart broke for Bob as he seems to be losing out on something good.
But life has a way of turning the tides and there is another happy ending in PC.
Thanks Rachel’s Random Resource for the advance copy.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Bob and Paige’s story will pull at all your emotions. Grief, children, grandchildren, Martha the dog you will fall in love with, reuniting with other Pelican Crossing characters and many twists and turns make this mature romance one you won’t put down.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Another heartwarming story that won’t let go until the end. Paige arrives to take care of her grandmother and can’t bear to leave. This town has something no other place has. This author knows how to get to your heart.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews