What do you think?
Rate this book
The Off Season #3
Christmas on the Coast
There’s no better place to spend Christmas than on the Chesapeake Bay, where it’s always the perfect season to start over.
Former police officer Paul Thompson has come to the little town of Pleasant Shores to heal his PTSD. The prescription involves volunteering, therapy and, most of all, a stable routine for his young son. Falling for Amber Rowe, however, would make that stability impossible. Even though she immediately bonds with little Davey, Amber’s future is filled with uncertainty, and Paul can’t bear to see his son love and lose someone else.
Amber got to know Paul’s late wife while writing a book about cancer. In doing so, she learned a secret that could tear Paul’s world apart. Keeping her distance is the best way to avoid unwittingly causing turmoil for a man she’s come to care about more than she ever intended. But as Christmas draws near and their joint volunteer project develops, so does the depth of their feelings. And soon, Amber will have to choose between keeping a promise and committing to a risky love…
Former police officer Paul Thompson has come to the little town of Pleasant Shores to heal his PTSD. The prescription involves volunteering, therapy and, most of all, a stable routine for his young son. Falling for Amber Rowe, however, would make that stability impossible. Even though she immediately bonds with little Davey, Amber’s future is filled with uncertainty, and Paul can’t bear to see his son love and lose someone else.
Amber got to know Paul’s late wife while writing a book about cancer. In doing so, she learned a secret that could tear Paul’s world apart. Keeping her distance is the best way to avoid unwittingly causing turmoil for a man she’s come to care about more than she ever intended. But as Christmas draws near and their joint volunteer project develops, so does the depth of their feelings. And soon, Amber will have to choose between keeping a promise and committing to a risky love…
235 pages, Kindle Edition
First published October 27, 2020
90 people are currently reading
336 people want to read
About the author
Lee Tobin McClain
173 books525 followersNew York Times bestselling author of emotional, heartwarming romances. Visit http://www.leetobinmcclain.com to join newsletter, get book release details, and find out more.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews
October 11, 2020
Christmas on the Coast by Lee Tobin McClain is the third book in her The Off Season series. This is an excellent edition to a heartfelt series.
Amber Rowe, single mother, author and cancer survivor, finds herself attracted to her new neighbor, Paul Thompson, after finding his four-year-old son, Davey, and his former K-9 dog, Sarge, in her yard late at night. Paul Thompson, single father, school resource officer and PTSD sufferer, is as attracted to Amber as she is to him. The two were previously, briefly acquainted when Amber interviewed Paul’s now deceased wife, Wendy, for a book about cancer. Both Amber and Paul are retreating from the budding relationship due to the possibility of a recurrence of Amber’s cancer. Neither one wants to put Davey through the loss of another mother. But the biggest impediment to the relationship is the secret that Amber is keeping.
McClain delivers a story that’s warm but not uncomplicated. The plot is interesting and believable. The characters are relatable. Little Davey and the dogs add charm and character. The scenery and the Christmas vibes add atmosphere. It takes more than love to get to happily ever after. In the end hope and faith are essential elements. Christmas on the Coast is another 5 out of 5 star read in this series, and I highly recommend it to all lovers of heartwarming romance.
There is an intriguing sneak peek of the next book in the series. I’m eager for its release.
My thanks to the author, HARLEQUIN – Trade Publishing (US & Canada) and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
Amber Rowe, single mother, author and cancer survivor, finds herself attracted to her new neighbor, Paul Thompson, after finding his four-year-old son, Davey, and his former K-9 dog, Sarge, in her yard late at night. Paul Thompson, single father, school resource officer and PTSD sufferer, is as attracted to Amber as she is to him. The two were previously, briefly acquainted when Amber interviewed Paul’s now deceased wife, Wendy, for a book about cancer. Both Amber and Paul are retreating from the budding relationship due to the possibility of a recurrence of Amber’s cancer. Neither one wants to put Davey through the loss of another mother. But the biggest impediment to the relationship is the secret that Amber is keeping.
McClain delivers a story that’s warm but not uncomplicated. The plot is interesting and believable. The characters are relatable. Little Davey and the dogs add charm and character. The scenery and the Christmas vibes add atmosphere. It takes more than love to get to happily ever after. In the end hope and faith are essential elements. Christmas on the Coast is another 5 out of 5 star read in this series, and I highly recommend it to all lovers of heartwarming romance.
There is an intriguing sneak peek of the next book in the series. I’m eager for its release.
My thanks to the author, HARLEQUIN – Trade Publishing (US & Canada) and NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book. However, the opinions expressed in this review are 100% mine and mine alone.
November 15, 2020
Excuse me while I check for bruising after all that emotional sucker punching. My heart has been pummeled and I might have gotten a bit teary by the end of this story. I also felt rage over injustices and exasperation over thoughtlessness and deep, abiding sorrow over how sometimes life just isn't fair! In other words, I'm an overwrought pretzel of colliding emotions. Happy sigh -- just the way I like to feel at the conclusion of novel.
McClain has crafted an explosive second chance love story made all the more powerful by the seasonal setting. This is the third book in her Off Season series but it can be read as a standalone. I've read the first book, but missed the second (though I'll definitely be backtracking.) I'm as attached to the secondary characters as I am to the protagonists and there's a riveting sub-plot that contributed to all my angsting and stewing.
A bloodhound, a cute kid and Christmas-y vibes bring solace to the emotionally charged romance. And touches of humour. All wrapped up in a small town setting. It doesn't get any better than that!
I enjoyed the audible version of this book narrated by Sandy Rustin who delivered a flawless performance that kept me captivated.
McClain has crafted an explosive second chance love story made all the more powerful by the seasonal setting. This is the third book in her Off Season series but it can be read as a standalone. I've read the first book, but missed the second (though I'll definitely be backtracking.) I'm as attached to the secondary characters as I am to the protagonists and there's a riveting sub-plot that contributed to all my angsting and stewing.
A bloodhound, a cute kid and Christmas-y vibes bring solace to the emotionally charged romance. And touches of humour. All wrapped up in a small town setting. It doesn't get any better than that!
I enjoyed the audible version of this book narrated by Sandy Rustin who delivered a flawless performance that kept me captivated.
October 12, 2024
One of my favorite of the series. Such a great couple and story. I really enjoy this author and these characters.
October 10, 2020
Fans of Debbie Macomber and Jan Karon will love McClain's heartfelt, wholesome, inspiring stories. I adore this small-town, costal setting, the endearing, complex characters, and their heartfelt stories of healing, hope and forgiveness.
Amber Rowe, who is finally recovering from a deadly illness, is surprised late one night when she hears a young child outside. Shortly after taking the boy and his dog into her home, Amber answers the door to come face to face with the boy's father, Paul Thompson. Something seems off about the man, but he clearly loves his son and little Davey is glad to see his father.
Paul Thompson has had his challenges. After suffering PTSD from a traumatic event as a police officer, he moves with his son and the family dog to Pleasant Shores to take part in the Healing Heroes program. Part of Paul's work with the program is as a community volunteer which pairs him up with Amber.
It's vital that both Paul and Amber keep things strictly professional. Paul lost his wife to the same disease that Amber conquered, and he can’t take the chance of going through another loss. What Paul doesn’t know is that his wife confided in Amber before she died, sharing a devastating secret that would rock the foundation of Paul's world if it were to be revealed.
McClain delivers another heartfelt, captivating read with a secondary storyline just as moving and compelling as Paul and Amber's journey to forever. The characters are rich, complex and vulnerable, and so perfectly crafted that they feel more like lifetime friends than works of fiction. They'll own your heart as you weep for their sorrows and celebrate their joy. This is the best Christmas romance I’ve read so far this year, and you’ll want to make this poignant, uplifting, extraordinary book your first read of the holiday season!
Amber Rowe, who is finally recovering from a deadly illness, is surprised late one night when she hears a young child outside. Shortly after taking the boy and his dog into her home, Amber answers the door to come face to face with the boy's father, Paul Thompson. Something seems off about the man, but he clearly loves his son and little Davey is glad to see his father.
Paul Thompson has had his challenges. After suffering PTSD from a traumatic event as a police officer, he moves with his son and the family dog to Pleasant Shores to take part in the Healing Heroes program. Part of Paul's work with the program is as a community volunteer which pairs him up with Amber.
It's vital that both Paul and Amber keep things strictly professional. Paul lost his wife to the same disease that Amber conquered, and he can’t take the chance of going through another loss. What Paul doesn’t know is that his wife confided in Amber before she died, sharing a devastating secret that would rock the foundation of Paul's world if it were to be revealed.
McClain delivers another heartfelt, captivating read with a secondary storyline just as moving and compelling as Paul and Amber's journey to forever. The characters are rich, complex and vulnerable, and so perfectly crafted that they feel more like lifetime friends than works of fiction. They'll own your heart as you weep for their sorrows and celebrate their joy. This is the best Christmas romance I’ve read so far this year, and you’ll want to make this poignant, uplifting, extraordinary book your first read of the holiday season!
September 28, 2020
Life is far from perfect! Love can still happen as we struggle thru life, as long as we remember that love is stronger than fear.
October 18, 2024
3.5 out of 5 stars
July 13, 2021
This is the third book in The Off Season series, set in Pleasant Shores, but I had no problem following this story. The overall theme in the series is based on the Healing Heroes cottage where a wounded hero, whether physically or suffering from PTSD or both, agrees to stay for three months of healing as well as participating in a volunteer project. Amber Rowe is a single mother, author and cancer survivor. One evening she finds four year old Davey in her backyard with his dog, Sarge. She then meets her new neighbor, Paul Thompson, who is living in the cottage while healing from PTSD as well as the death of his wife. There is an attraction between them that they are both trying to fight. The two were previously, briefly acquainted when Amber interviewed Paul’s now deceased wife, Wendy, for a book about cancer. The more time they spend together while working on a volunteer project, the harder it is to resist the growing attraction. As there is the possibility of Amber's cancer returning, they do not want to put Davey through the loss of another mother as well there is also a huge secret that Wendy shared with Amber that she was asked to keep. Can Amber have a relationship with Paul and keep her promise to Wendy? There is also a side story going on with Mary, the owner of the town's bookstore as well as their philanthropist, being bullied and manipulated by someone from her past. Mary tries again and again to help her and forgive, but it seems to escalate the abuse more. I enjoyed learning about Mary's past as well.
This was an emotional and heartwarming story. This story deals with complicated life issues like infidelity, cancer, murder, bullying, guilt and abuse. There is also a situation with grandparents and how far do you go when they overstep parental boundaries. I really liked Amber, Paul Davey and Mary. They were wonderful characters who made the story realistic. Even Sarge, Paul's dog and retired K-9, was lovable. This was not an easy road for Amber and Paul and I found myself rooting for them. Amber was living in fear of her cancer returning and that is something that many people live with daily. I was angry about what was happening with Mary. She was a loving, generous and caring individual who didn't deserve the way she was being treated. What I thought would be a sweet and happy Christmas story had my emotions all over the place. It definitely took me on a rollercoaster ride. Rest assured, it as a happily ever after with elements of love, forgiveness, acceptance and taking chances for what you really want. The scenery and the Christmas vibes add atmosphere making this a satisfying and enjoyable Christmas story. Narrator, Sandy Rustin, does a nice job with this book. She has a pleasant voice that made listening to this audiobook an enjoyable experience.
This was an emotional and heartwarming story. This story deals with complicated life issues like infidelity, cancer, murder, bullying, guilt and abuse. There is also a situation with grandparents and how far do you go when they overstep parental boundaries. I really liked Amber, Paul Davey and Mary. They were wonderful characters who made the story realistic. Even Sarge, Paul's dog and retired K-9, was lovable. This was not an easy road for Amber and Paul and I found myself rooting for them. Amber was living in fear of her cancer returning and that is something that many people live with daily. I was angry about what was happening with Mary. She was a loving, generous and caring individual who didn't deserve the way she was being treated. What I thought would be a sweet and happy Christmas story had my emotions all over the place. It definitely took me on a rollercoaster ride. Rest assured, it as a happily ever after with elements of love, forgiveness, acceptance and taking chances for what you really want. The scenery and the Christmas vibes add atmosphere making this a satisfying and enjoyable Christmas story. Narrator, Sandy Rustin, does a nice job with this book. She has a pleasant voice that made listening to this audiobook an enjoyable experience.
October 13, 2020
Christmas on the Coast by Lee Tobin McClain
There’s no better place to spend Christmas than on the Chesapeake Bay, where it’s always the perfect season to start over.
Former police officer has come to the little town of Pleasant Shores to heal his PTSD. The prescription involves volunteering, therapy and, most of all, a stable routine for his young son. Falling for Amber Rowe, however, would make that stability impossible. Even though she immediately bonds with little Davey, Amber’s future is filled with uncertainty, and Paul can’t bear to see his son love and lose someone else.
Amber got to know Paul’s late wife while writing a book about cancer. In doing so, she learned a secret that could tear Paul’s world apart. Keeping her distance is the best way to avoid unwittingly causing turmoil for a man she’s come to care about more than she ever intended. But as Christmas draws near and their joint volunteer project develops, so does the depth of their feelings. And soon, Amber will have to choose between keeping a promise and committing to a risky love…
This is Amber Rowe and Paul Thompson and his young son Davey's story.
Amber is a writer.
Paul Thompson is a Former police officer with PTSD.
AMBER ROWE WOKE up to the sound of a child crying and pushed herself to a seated position on the couch. “Hannah?”
Heart pounding, she looked around the living room of her little beach cottage and then checked her phone. Just 11:15 p.m.
Outside, a dog barked, and something, maybe a cat, yowled over the rattling November wind. Amber shoved her fingers through her hair, reflexively pressed at the scars on her abdomen and sucked in a deep breath, let it out. She’d been sleeping so heavily, dreaming.
Suddenly, footsteps pounded up her front steps. “Davey! Davey, are you in there?” came a man’s frantic yell.
“Daddy!” Davey ran to the door and Amber hastened after him. Scary Daddy wasn’t coming in here without an explanation.
Davey tried to open the door, but she put a hand on his shoulder. “Step over there a minute,” she ordered firmly, and opened the door a crack.
I highly recommend reading.
Christmas on the Coast by Lee Tobin McClain is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Lee Tobin McClain.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and publisher. I was not required to review it.
There’s no better place to spend Christmas than on the Chesapeake Bay, where it’s always the perfect season to start over.
Former police officer has come to the little town of Pleasant Shores to heal his PTSD. The prescription involves volunteering, therapy and, most of all, a stable routine for his young son. Falling for Amber Rowe, however, would make that stability impossible. Even though she immediately bonds with little Davey, Amber’s future is filled with uncertainty, and Paul can’t bear to see his son love and lose someone else.
Amber got to know Paul’s late wife while writing a book about cancer. In doing so, she learned a secret that could tear Paul’s world apart. Keeping her distance is the best way to avoid unwittingly causing turmoil for a man she’s come to care about more than she ever intended. But as Christmas draws near and their joint volunteer project develops, so does the depth of their feelings. And soon, Amber will have to choose between keeping a promise and committing to a risky love…
This is Amber Rowe and Paul Thompson and his young son Davey's story.
Amber is a writer.
Paul Thompson is a Former police officer with PTSD.
AMBER ROWE WOKE up to the sound of a child crying and pushed herself to a seated position on the couch. “Hannah?”
Heart pounding, she looked around the living room of her little beach cottage and then checked her phone. Just 11:15 p.m.
Outside, a dog barked, and something, maybe a cat, yowled over the rattling November wind. Amber shoved her fingers through her hair, reflexively pressed at the scars on her abdomen and sucked in a deep breath, let it out. She’d been sleeping so heavily, dreaming.
Suddenly, footsteps pounded up her front steps. “Davey! Davey, are you in there?” came a man’s frantic yell.
“Daddy!” Davey ran to the door and Amber hastened after him. Scary Daddy wasn’t coming in here without an explanation.
Davey tried to open the door, but she put a hand on his shoulder. “Step over there a minute,” she ordered firmly, and opened the door a crack.
I highly recommend reading.
Christmas on the Coast by Lee Tobin McClain is a wonderful well written 5 star book.
I am looking forward to reading more books by Lee Tobin McClain.
I received a free copy of this book from the author and publisher. I was not required to review it.
November 30, 2022
3.5 stars
This story covered a lot of hard topics that might be triggering like cancer and PTSD so know that going in first of all.
Secondly I went back and forth about my feelings of the book. I did like the overall story arc. It was something different than I have ever read before. I did like the characters. There were some really sweet and tender moments between the characters as well as their furry friends. The part with Coco and Mary at the end had me tearing up hard core as did other moments throughout the story.
But what I wasn’t a hundred percent sold on was the romance between Paul and Amber. For a majority of the story, I just felt their love story bland especially compared to other romances. It was just in a too subtle way for me with just convert looks here and there and nothing else happening between them. Granted they were dealing with their issues as well as Davey, but even still it was just blah in the romance. It got better when they kissed and the conflict arose, but for the most part I wasn’t excited about the romance. It was just okay.
Also even though I did like the stuff with Coco and Mary, I did find the Mary stuff a little unnecessary. I felt like the center of the story should have been on Paul and Amber. It just felt so random to have Mary’s point of view in there, and I didn’t get the point. It disrupted the flow of the story in my opinion. It just didn’t make sense to me to have it in there.
Overall I didn’t hate it, but I wasn’t over the moon either. The driving force wasn’t the romance, but other stuff. I really wanted it to be more about the romance. That was what I was looking forward to the most, but instead I was really disappointed and underwhelmed by it.
This story covered a lot of hard topics that might be triggering like cancer and PTSD so know that going in first of all.
Secondly I went back and forth about my feelings of the book. I did like the overall story arc. It was something different than I have ever read before. I did like the characters. There were some really sweet and tender moments between the characters as well as their furry friends. The part with Coco and Mary at the end had me tearing up hard core as did other moments throughout the story.
But what I wasn’t a hundred percent sold on was the romance between Paul and Amber. For a majority of the story, I just felt their love story bland especially compared to other romances. It was just in a too subtle way for me with just convert looks here and there and nothing else happening between them. Granted they were dealing with their issues as well as Davey, but even still it was just blah in the romance. It got better when they kissed and the conflict arose, but for the most part I wasn’t excited about the romance. It was just okay.
Also even though I did like the stuff with Coco and Mary, I did find the Mary stuff a little unnecessary. I felt like the center of the story should have been on Paul and Amber. It just felt so random to have Mary’s point of view in there, and I didn’t get the point. It disrupted the flow of the story in my opinion. It just didn’t make sense to me to have it in there.
Overall I didn’t hate it, but I wasn’t over the moon either. The driving force wasn’t the romance, but other stuff. I really wanted it to be more about the romance. That was what I was looking forward to the most, but instead I was really disappointed and underwhelmed by it.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 20, 2020
This was a good story but it honestly wasn't one of my favorites with all the complicated drama and negative characters.
The main characters Paul and Amber both have alot of emotional baggage and medical issues that they try to work thru during this story. All the while trying to help each other but fight the growing "forbidden" attraction. Meanwhile Paul's inlaws keep coming into town sabotaging his friendship with Amber and complicating things with his young son.
Also throughout this book, Amber's bookstore owner friend Mary has complications as a person from the past tries to bully and manipulate her. Mary tries again and again to help her and forgive, but it seems to escalate the abuse more.
This story deals with complicated life issues like infidelity, cancer, murder, bullying, guilt and abuse. These are real life situations so this book is definitely not as "light hearted" as I would have hoped or wanted. But elements like love, forgiveness, acceptance and God's grace are also portrayed.
This book was nicely written and I have read several other books by this author that I have enjoyed more.
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
The main characters Paul and Amber both have alot of emotional baggage and medical issues that they try to work thru during this story. All the while trying to help each other but fight the growing "forbidden" attraction. Meanwhile Paul's inlaws keep coming into town sabotaging his friendship with Amber and complicating things with his young son.
Also throughout this book, Amber's bookstore owner friend Mary has complications as a person from the past tries to bully and manipulate her. Mary tries again and again to help her and forgive, but it seems to escalate the abuse more.
This story deals with complicated life issues like infidelity, cancer, murder, bullying, guilt and abuse. These are real life situations so this book is definitely not as "light hearted" as I would have hoped or wanted. But elements like love, forgiveness, acceptance and God's grace are also portrayed.
This book was nicely written and I have read several other books by this author that I have enjoyed more.
I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.
September 26, 2020
I enjoy reading small town romance especially the ones with a Christmas theme. The small town in Lee Tobin McClain's book Christmas on the Coast is called Pleasant Shores and it a very charming small town. This story is the third book in this author's Off Season series. The overall arc in the series is based on the Healing Heroes cottage where a wounded hero, whether physically or suffering from PTSD or both, agrees to stay for three months of healing and agrees to do a volunteer project. In this story police office Paul Thompson is suffering from PTSD after an incident while on duty and settles into Healing Heroes cottage. Paul and his four-year-old son Davey meet Amber Rowe. Amber and Paul are wonderful characters and Davey is a cute little boy who adds a lot to the charm of this story. I enjoyed all their interactions. I really liked all the Christmas festivities in Pleasant Shores. The town has some different ones like Crabby Christmas and By Golly Be Jolly Christmas Shopper Night on the first Monday in December. This is a heartwarming and emotion-packed read and I think small town romance fans will enjoy it.
January 8, 2022
At Christmas time I really enjoy the corny Hallmark movies and pretty much anything cozy and Christmas themed. And usually the cornier the better. But this book may have just been a little too cheesy for me.
Paul Thompson and his young son Davey have come to the coastal small town of Pleasant Shore so Paul, a former police officer, can recover from his PTSD. They are also healing from the loss of Davey’s mother to cancer. Paul’s neighbor Amber, an author, is also healing from her recent bout with Cancer and had interviewed his late wife for her last book. The two meet and soon get roped into working on a project together….. And the rest you can kind of guess at. But there's some other interesting side stories and mysteries to be solved.
I didn’t get this read in December but I did care enough to come back and finish it in January. It had enough small town drama and scandal to keep me coming back, but I did find myself getting pretty bored for large chunks of the story.
Paul Thompson and his young son Davey have come to the coastal small town of Pleasant Shore so Paul, a former police officer, can recover from his PTSD. They are also healing from the loss of Davey’s mother to cancer. Paul’s neighbor Amber, an author, is also healing from her recent bout with Cancer and had interviewed his late wife for her last book. The two meet and soon get roped into working on a project together….. And the rest you can kind of guess at. But there's some other interesting side stories and mysteries to be solved.
I didn’t get this read in December but I did care enough to come back and finish it in January. It had enough small town drama and scandal to keep me coming back, but I did find myself getting pretty bored for large chunks of the story.
December 27, 2022
What I read: Christmas on the Coast by Lee Tobin McClain
Why I picked it up: I was looking for Christmas reads at the library and this one was on the shelf.
How I read it: On paper over 4 days which felt like a super long time for such a short book.
What it’s about: Paul moves into the Healing Heroes cottage with his son Davey to heal after a tragedy at his old job. Amber had lived next door for a while and she’s a writer. They’ve met before when Amber interviewed his wife for her book before she lost her battle with cancer. Now they’re working together on a project, but are struggling to keep it platonic.
What I liked: I liked the focus on police hurt in the line of duty and victims & their families coming to these cottages to heal, and the town taking them all in.
What I disliked: This was a slow read, and it didn’t really grab me at all.
Genre: Christmas, chaste romance.
Rating & Recommendation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ and I’d say go ahead and skip it.
Why I picked it up: I was looking for Christmas reads at the library and this one was on the shelf.
How I read it: On paper over 4 days which felt like a super long time for such a short book.
What it’s about: Paul moves into the Healing Heroes cottage with his son Davey to heal after a tragedy at his old job. Amber had lived next door for a while and she’s a writer. They’ve met before when Amber interviewed his wife for her book before she lost her battle with cancer. Now they’re working together on a project, but are struggling to keep it platonic.
What I liked: I liked the focus on police hurt in the line of duty and victims & their families coming to these cottages to heal, and the town taking them all in.
What I disliked: This was a slow read, and it didn’t really grab me at all.
Genre: Christmas, chaste romance.
Rating & Recommendation: ⭐️⭐️⭐️ and I’d say go ahead and skip it.
October 10, 2020
Amber Rowe has dealt with a serious illness several times and has been triumphant, at least so far. She interviewed other cancer patients and wrote a book about the struggle with this deadly disease. When the cottage next to her is rented, she is reacquainted with Officer Paul Thompson and his young son Davey. Amber had interviewed Paul’s wife Wendy for her book and is saddened to learn that Wendy had lost her battle. Paul is dealing with PTSD from an incident in his past and is part of the Healing Heroes project. An attraction develops between Amber and Paul, but a secret that she is unable to share with him may doom any chance of their future. Amber’s good friend, Mary Rhoades, has her own issues as she deals with an unexpected visitor to town who means to make trouble. I received an advance review copy at no cost and without obligation for an honest review. (by paytonpuppy)
October 18, 2020
In Christmas on the Coast, I enjoyed going back to the cottage for police officers suffering from PTSD located on the shore of Chesapeake Bay! I admired Amber Rowe for her good attitude now that she has recovered from cancer! Her future looks good but she knows it can come back. Amber's new neighbor is Paul Thompson who is suffering from PTSD after a school shooting. Paul is a good male protagonist as he cares for his preschool son following his wife's death from cancer. You will wonder when Paul will learn the secret that Amber knows about his son and what this will do to their relationship. This Christmas season has lots of complications! You will enjoy this contemporary story about a middle age couple. I received a complimentary copy of Christmas on the Coast from the author, Lee Tobin McClain. This is my honest opinion.
October 29, 2020
This book is just what I want during this time a year, an easy, cozy romance book. This is not of the steamy variety rather it is rather docile but I appreciate that their substance and the background of the characters deal with important topics, such as PTSD, the mental aspect of surviving cancer and domestic abuse. This was a very quick read and I found myself getting emotional at times right along with the characters. My one complain about this book is the transitions. They were choppy and sometimes it was unclear which character was leading the narrative.
Nonetheless, I can imagine that this book would be popular with those library patrons that want an easy, feel-good read for the holiday season.
Nonetheless, I can imagine that this book would be popular with those library patrons that want an easy, feel-good read for the holiday season.
January 10, 2021
CHRISTMAS ON THE COAST, Lee Tobin McClain’s book 3 of The Off Season series, is an emotional and heartwarming romance between Amber Rowe, a cancer survivor and Paul Thompson, former police officer and a widower with a young son. Before her death, Paul’s wife had shared a secret with Amber that could jeopardize her relationship with Paul. CHRISTMAS ON THE COAST will dazzle readers with unforgettable characters and fabulous small-town settings. Lee Tobin McClain cleverly interweaves a subplot of intrigue concerning Amber’s friend, Mary, into Amber’s life, revealing their hurts, fears, and deep friendship. I received this complimentary (copy from the author in exchange for my honest review.
September 25, 2020
Paul and Amber meet again when Paul's son wanders over her cottage accidentally. Amber is a writer who had interviewed Wendy, Paul's deceased wife. Wendy confessed a huge secret to Amber who has kept it to herself. As they develop a relationship the secret will come out and damage is done. The writing was smooth and more characters add integral twists to the story line. I like doing the beach setting. It's the third in a new series so readers will see some characters again. Tomorrow is never premised so the lesson is live today with gusto and be grateful. Thanks to NetGalley and Harlequin for the early copy in exchange for my review.
October 13, 2020
There was a lot going on in the book, which made for very interesting reading. However, the main focus is on Paul and Amber. They are both recovering; him from PTSD and her from cancer. Even though they both know that they should avoid one another, working together makes that impossible. Add to that Paul’s four-year-old that immediately fell in love with Amber, making things even more complicated.
The plot line between Mary and Imogene was also very compelling, as they had a past that needed to be dealt with. I loved how this story came together and would recommend this book.
I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a positive review.
The plot line between Mary and Imogene was also very compelling, as they had a past that needed to be dealt with. I loved how this story came together and would recommend this book.
I received a copy of this book from the author and was not required to write a positive review.
September 28, 2020
I loved reading Christmas On The Coast. I would recommend buying this book. You will feel God working throughout this wonderful story. I learned more about how cancer survivors and people suffering from PTSD suffer throughout their days. Lee will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what happens next. The characters in this book will be like family by the time you finish reading it. I had the honor to review this book for the author for a honest review. I would give this a higher rating than a five star review if I could.
October 6, 2020
Neither Paul, a police officer, nor Amber, a writer, thought they would ever meet again- Amber interviewed Paul's now deceased wife Wendy for a book about cancer. Now, though, he's brought his son Davey with him to Pleasant Shores while he participates in a program for those dealing with PTSD and Davey wanders over to Amber's place. It's Christmas and the trio find this is a good place to work on healing except that Amber's heart is heavy- she knows a secret,. No spoilers from me but this is a positive story that will cheer you up. Thanks to the publisher for the ARC. It's a good read.
October 20, 2020
Paul Thompson is a former police officer and a single dad who comes to the small town of Pleasant Shores to heal his diagnosis of PTSD. He is staying in the Healing Hero’s cottage, that just happens to be next door to Amber Rowe’s cottage. Amber is the author of the book about people who deal with cancer and she just happened to interview Paul’s wife, Wendy, two years ago before she died. Wendy also told her a secret and promised her never to tell and thinking she would never see Paul again she made that promise.
Read on to see how this story develops....
Read on to see how this story develops....
November 15, 2020
This is a really good book. Once I started reading it I just could not put it down. This book made me smile and cry in parts.
I this book most of the characters have a past that haunts them. Paul is an ex police officer who has PTSD from a shooting that happened. Mary's is from her late husbands daughter. And Amber's is from her sickness.
Through it all they learn to rely on each other and find the happiness that makes this a perfect small town. Especially with the magic of it being at Christmas
I this book most of the characters have a past that haunts them. Paul is an ex police officer who has PTSD from a shooting that happened. Mary's is from her late husbands daughter. And Amber's is from her sickness.
Through it all they learn to rely on each other and find the happiness that makes this a perfect small town. Especially with the magic of it being at Christmas
December 13, 2020
This is book 3 in the Off Season series. Set on the Chesapeake Bay small town police officer, Paul is responsible for for his young son since his wife died of breast cancer. Amber Rowe is his neighbor and bonds immediately with Davey, his son. Amber is a writer and included Paul's wife's story in her book on facing death. Lots of pain and grief in their path of true love but it's Christmas. A tear jerker for sure. Can be read as a stand alone. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
April 28, 2021
PTSD and cancer fiure rpominently in the lives of former police officer Paul Thompson when he checks into the Healing Heroes cottage and meets and is attracted to Amber Rowe.
Each with their own problems and pasts and a secret that both links and threatens to destroy the relationship that blooms between them.
Several other characters round out the town, making it both one that reflects real life and attracts others to it. But will what happens at the local bookstore destroy what has been built there?
Each with their own problems and pasts and a secret that both links and threatens to destroy the relationship that blooms between them.
Several other characters round out the town, making it both one that reflects real life and attracts others to it. But will what happens at the local bookstore destroy what has been built there?
November 4, 2020
Lee has done it again! Christmas on the Coast is the third book in the series by Lee Tobin McLain called The Off Season. This book deals with PTSD, cancer, regret, forgiveness and love. The main characters Paul and Amber are each dealing with their own personal issues and at the same time end up falling in love. This book has great in-depth characters that deal with sensitive issues that are handled in a very heartfelt way. I loved this book!
November 6, 2020
Delightful and Emotional!
Christmas on the Coast is a story full of heart and hope. My emotions were hooked right from the very start. These characters are so full of personality. They feel so real. I have become so very attached.
Lee Tobin McClain pulls at your heartstrings with this one. Love heals the heart in this magical Christmas read. I absolutely adore this small town read and I can’t wait to visit again. The Off Season has become one of my most beloved series!
Christmas on the Coast is a story full of heart and hope. My emotions were hooked right from the very start. These characters are so full of personality. They feel so real. I have become so very attached.
Lee Tobin McClain pulls at your heartstrings with this one. Love heals the heart in this magical Christmas read. I absolutely adore this small town read and I can’t wait to visit again. The Off Season has become one of my most beloved series!
December 26, 2020
I don't read many adult titles but this one drew me in and I could not stop reading. I loved the characters and how they were dealing with situations from cancer too PTSD. It felt so real and down to earth. I loved the little town and just everyone in it. The story weaved from the two main characters to a few side characters and it worked so well. I do think that the story lost some of its momentum towards the end but overall it was still so good.
January 11, 2021
This is an interesting Christmas romance with well developed characters. Mary is the owner of a bookstore on Chesapeake Bay. She is also a huge philanthropist in the community. One of her projects is a cottage for people suffering from PTSD. The current occupant is the widowed father of a little boy. The multiple,complicated relationships kept my interest. Quick and interesting read. Recommend!
December 25, 2021
Heartwarming but writing at the end seemed a little rushed. Amber was a strong minded woman with health issues who meets a guy with PTSD. Predictable love story , but since I always want the happy ending I don’t mind!
Can see the foreshadowing of future books, intrigued enough by Bisky, one of the locals in Amber’s town that I would like to read another. Bisky seems like a strong independent woman in a man’s work world.
Can see the foreshadowing of future books, intrigued enough by Bisky, one of the locals in Amber’s town that I would like to read another. Bisky seems like a strong independent woman in a man’s work world.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 60 reviews