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Moonlight Bay #3
Return to Magnolia Harbor
USA Today bestselling author Hope Ramsay delivers the next book in her Moonlight Bay series, an enemies-to-lovers story about a man who returns home to his small town and finds love in the most unlikely of places.
She never forgot him...but can she forgive him?
Jessica Blackwood is trying to make her architectural design firm a success, and she's off to a great start, thanks to a recommendation that leads to the job of the century-designing a house for a wealthy but reclusive bachelor. The only problem? Jessica's new client happens to be her old high school nemesis. The bigger problem? He's no longer the cocky boy who once tormented her, and suddenly she finds herself intrigued by her new client.
Christopher Martin isn't proud of his past behavior. He regrets nothing more than hurting Jessica all those years ago, and now that he's back in Magnolia Harbor he finally has a chance to make amends. As the two work side by side, Topher begins to realize he wants more than a house. He wants forgiveness and a future with the woman he's never forgotten. But can he prove to Jessica he's truly changed?
She never forgot him...but can she forgive him?
Jessica Blackwood is trying to make her architectural design firm a success, and she's off to a great start, thanks to a recommendation that leads to the job of the century-designing a house for a wealthy but reclusive bachelor. The only problem? Jessica's new client happens to be her old high school nemesis. The bigger problem? He's no longer the cocky boy who once tormented her, and suddenly she finds herself intrigued by her new client.
Christopher Martin isn't proud of his past behavior. He regrets nothing more than hurting Jessica all those years ago, and now that he's back in Magnolia Harbor he finally has a chance to make amends. As the two work side by side, Topher begins to realize he wants more than a house. He wants forgiveness and a future with the woman he's never forgotten. But can he prove to Jessica he's truly changed?
336 pages, Paperback
Published June 23, 2020
About the author
Hope Ramsay
36 books560 followersHope Ramsay is a USA Today bestselling author of heartwarming contemporary romances, set below the Mason-Dixon Line. Her children are grown, but she has a beloved fur baby, Daisy the Cockapoo who keeps her entertained. Hope lives in the medium-sized town of Fredericksburg, Virginia and when she’s not writing or walking the dog, she spends her time knitting and noodling around on her collection of guitars.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 62 reviews
August 16, 2020
This is the third book in the Moonlight Bay series. I didn't read the first two books but I believe you can read them as a standalone without issues.
The story centers around Jessica Blackwood and Christopher Martin. It's loosely based in the retelling of Beauty and the Beast.
Jessica was forced to leave her town when she was a teenager. The town gossiped about her and another boy, Colton. People believe there was more to them being together than friendship. Now, as an adult, Jessica has come back to her hometown. Jessica is an architect and she is starting her own business. Recently, she has finished a project that has made an impact on the business.
Christopher has learned about the house she recently built. He wants to hire her to build his new home on an island away from all the noisy eyes. Christopher was in an accident and his handsome face is not so handsome anymore. The accident has left him with facial scars and a bad leg. The town people give him the "look" and he's done with it. He is also tired of his meddling family members telling him how to live and he just wants to be left in peace.
To Jessica and Topher's surprise, they seem to understand each other.
The question is, can Jessica and Christopher overcome their personal issues and develop a relationship?
There were parts of Return to Magnolia Harbor that I enjoyed. I like the idea of a retelling of Beauty and the Beast. I like the ghost and the treasure hunt storylines. I want to know where Colton's life is going and what is going to happen to Ashley and a certain minister. My issues were with Jessica. She appeared to be too scared at times and trying to run away from her troubles. I also didn't feel like the town apologized for all the gossip they threw around her life. It was disappointing. I like Topher and how he started to heal on the outside and the inside too.
Cliffhanger: No
3/5 Fangs
A complimentary copy was provided by Forever in exchange for an honest review.
MrsLeif's Two Fangs About It | Facebook | Twitter | Instagram
July 1, 2020
3.5 stars Return to Magnolia Harbor the story was good, it was very promising, it had the right amount of angst and characters that will keep you hooked in the story.
this is the story of Jessica character that suffered so much in the past and is trying to move on with her new life and career but her past keep trying to be present in her life she just wants to move on and forget anything that ever made her feel insecure and so alone, now a few years later she is ready to conquer and be bold but things would never be easy until she finally brokes her fears and insecurities.
Topher was a very lonely character, people around him were always trying to figure him out, at the same time they didn't want to be around him, his physical appearance was not easy for many and that made him want to always be alone and secluded in his own house.
Topher and Jessica had a hard time finally lower their walls as both of them had so much past to be afraid but life and circumstances will determine if they're finally ready to be together.
The reason I gave this book 3.5 stars was because I felt at all times like something was missing, there was never enough intensity, There was something that wasn't fully complete between the characters like the chemistry was not easy to feel, also Jessica was most of the times afraid, I know that was the intention but at some point, she felt more naive than afraid and that made her character feel weak.
The story was good, the characters were promising, I recommend you to give this book a chance and get yours on conclusions.
this is the story of Jessica character that suffered so much in the past and is trying to move on with her new life and career but her past keep trying to be present in her life she just wants to move on and forget anything that ever made her feel insecure and so alone, now a few years later she is ready to conquer and be bold but things would never be easy until she finally brokes her fears and insecurities.
Topher was a very lonely character, people around him were always trying to figure him out, at the same time they didn't want to be around him, his physical appearance was not easy for many and that made him want to always be alone and secluded in his own house.
Topher and Jessica had a hard time finally lower their walls as both of them had so much past to be afraid but life and circumstances will determine if they're finally ready to be together.
The reason I gave this book 3.5 stars was because I felt at all times like something was missing, there was never enough intensity, There was something that wasn't fully complete between the characters like the chemistry was not easy to feel, also Jessica was most of the times afraid, I know that was the intention but at some point, she felt more naive than afraid and that made her character feel weak.
The story was good, the characters were promising, I recommend you to give this book a chance and get yours on conclusions.
July 20, 2020
A prodigal returns and the past still has her in its clutches when a scarred and bitter version of her old high school nemesis hires her to design him a house. Can a new understanding lead to something more? Hope Ramsay's heartwarming, coastal small town romance delighted me and left me wanting more.
Return to Magnolia Harbor is the third book in a gently-paced, character driven series that introduces standalone romances, but with a series arc involving a pirate, a little boy, a grieving woman, and a Gullah family that need to be taken in order to see it all play out.
Jessica Blackwood was driven out of town and out of her family by a domineering parent who refused to believe the truth when rumors about her and Colton St. Pierre started to fly. Nothing happened, but teenage Jessica got stamped as a fast girl anyway. She came back to take care of her dying mother and ended up opening her own architectural design office. A few solid commissions will really establish her. Meanwhile, the rumors about Colton and her continue though they are still just friends. Jessica still finds herself hurt deeply and works hard to give people no reason to talk. Taking the commission to design wealthy businessman, Topher Martin's reclusive island home only stirs the gossip embers into flames and she has hated him since high school, but money is money and a building clientele make it worth it.
Topher's car wreck disfigured him and ruined his leg. It took even more when the once popular, confident man only wants to hide and lick his wounds. Fiery, angry Jessica agrees to design and contract for his dream to happen. His family loves him, but they fight him on this and it is only his reluctant architect who stands by him. He is intrigued by her and finally gets her to tell him why she hates him and then the truth of the past can start to heal them both.
Meanwhile, Ashley runs her B&B, tries to get past her grief, avoid uncomfortable feelings for Micah St. Pierre, do her best to scotch Topher's unsafe plans to move to a remote island, and most of all staunch her son's belief and fixation on the ghost of a local pirate legend. He is so certain as is Topher, her cousin, but she refuses to by into this crutch to grief.
There is so much going on with this latest series installment. New characters, Topher and Jessica are introduced and get their story in the forefront, but there is also the ongoing story of Ashley and Micah, the pirate, and now Colton's romance beginning. The quilting group was background as was the Gullah culture for this one. It was sailing and architecture, old town rumors, a scheming rep who was a bully and sexual predator, and the secret history of the town come to light.
I suppose this was an enemies to lovers story, but I felt it was too one-sided for that. The author was going for Beauty and the Beast as a theme and that I could see. Though, here's the thing, Topher was disfigured on the outside and could get cranky and reclusive as a result, but at her core, Jessica was pretty beastly herself at first for good reason.
I sympathized with her pain in being shuffled out of town by her own family and thought to be a liar and a girl who lost her virginity to one of the school bad boys by everyone else when none of the gossip was true. It really was damaging and she was assaulted by another kid at the school and couldn't even go to her dad about it because she knew he would take the guy's side since he was a football player. She really had it hard and had no support. She was sent off to boarding school and then only got her architectural degree because she earned a scholarship. Her family had washed their hands of her. And, the town was happy to believe the worst because her family did. Coming back, she had the wrong end of the stick about Topher and really gave him a hard time, but she soon started learning the truth about many people including herself. She went from cringing, don't-rock-the-boat-and-cause-more-rumors to a woman who stood for herself. Jessica was such a powerful heroine.
Topher had a relatively easy early life when it came to family support though he grieved the loss of closest family and endured his early rep as a nerd. He became a ruthless businessman and seem to have it all until his looks were gone and his fiance left him. Because of his disfigurement and disability, he was well aware of what it was like to be stared at and talked about so he was in a unique position to support and understand Jessica when he got past her prickles and old assumptions about him. He had a tender heart and he was so good with a young boy who just needed to be believed.
Ashley and Micah's story has been building to a crisis point. Micah is being so patient with her. In this book, she turned down right ugly (another Beast) to Micah and to her own son in her effort to squelch an imaginary pirate fixation and any feelings that she felt was a betrayal to her dead husband. I couldn't believe to what lengths she went to to block Topher's dream (NOT HER BUSINESS) and her son's. What she did was so wrong and yet it was barely noted. Does it come up in the next book? I really don't know what to think of her. I guess I pity her and hope she can get things untangled inside her head before she drives off everyone she loves the most. Need her story Stat!
I enjoyed it all and this was an amazing read until the very end- when it just ended leaving me with more than one unanswered question about the main couple and more like I mentioned about Ashley. The side stuff being left open was no big deal as it will carry over into the next book. But, for me not to know how some things resolved that were part of the main conflict was disappointing. The romance itself resolved, but things in their lives did not.
I can't recommend this series enough if contemporary romance fans want deep and thoughtful characterization, descriptive and engaging setting and plot, well-developed and a little spicy romance.
My thanks to Forever for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
So, the characters
Return to Magnolia Harbor is the third book in a gently-paced, character driven series that introduces standalone romances, but with a series arc involving a pirate, a little boy, a grieving woman, and a Gullah family that need to be taken in order to see it all play out.
Jessica Blackwood was driven out of town and out of her family by a domineering parent who refused to believe the truth when rumors about her and Colton St. Pierre started to fly. Nothing happened, but teenage Jessica got stamped as a fast girl anyway. She came back to take care of her dying mother and ended up opening her own architectural design office. A few solid commissions will really establish her. Meanwhile, the rumors about Colton and her continue though they are still just friends. Jessica still finds herself hurt deeply and works hard to give people no reason to talk. Taking the commission to design wealthy businessman, Topher Martin's reclusive island home only stirs the gossip embers into flames and she has hated him since high school, but money is money and a building clientele make it worth it.
Topher's car wreck disfigured him and ruined his leg. It took even more when the once popular, confident man only wants to hide and lick his wounds. Fiery, angry Jessica agrees to design and contract for his dream to happen. His family loves him, but they fight him on this and it is only his reluctant architect who stands by him. He is intrigued by her and finally gets her to tell him why she hates him and then the truth of the past can start to heal them both.
Meanwhile, Ashley runs her B&B, tries to get past her grief, avoid uncomfortable feelings for Micah St. Pierre, do her best to scotch Topher's unsafe plans to move to a remote island, and most of all staunch her son's belief and fixation on the ghost of a local pirate legend. He is so certain as is Topher, her cousin, but she refuses to by into this crutch to grief.
There is so much going on with this latest series installment. New characters, Topher and Jessica are introduced and get their story in the forefront, but there is also the ongoing story of Ashley and Micah, the pirate, and now Colton's romance beginning. The quilting group was background as was the Gullah culture for this one. It was sailing and architecture, old town rumors, a scheming rep who was a bully and sexual predator, and the secret history of the town come to light.
I suppose this was an enemies to lovers story, but I felt it was too one-sided for that. The author was going for Beauty and the Beast as a theme and that I could see. Though, here's the thing, Topher was disfigured on the outside and could get cranky and reclusive as a result, but at her core, Jessica was pretty beastly herself at first for good reason.
I sympathized with her pain in being shuffled out of town by her own family and thought to be a liar and a girl who lost her virginity to one of the school bad boys by everyone else when none of the gossip was true. It really was damaging and she was assaulted by another kid at the school and couldn't even go to her dad about it because she knew he would take the guy's side since he was a football player. She really had it hard and had no support. She was sent off to boarding school and then only got her architectural degree because she earned a scholarship. Her family had washed their hands of her. And, the town was happy to believe the worst because her family did. Coming back, she had the wrong end of the stick about Topher and really gave him a hard time, but she soon started learning the truth about many people including herself. She went from cringing, don't-rock-the-boat-and-cause-more-rumors to a woman who stood for herself. Jessica was such a powerful heroine.
Topher had a relatively easy early life when it came to family support though he grieved the loss of closest family and endured his early rep as a nerd. He became a ruthless businessman and seem to have it all until his looks were gone and his fiance left him. Because of his disfigurement and disability, he was well aware of what it was like to be stared at and talked about so he was in a unique position to support and understand Jessica when he got past her prickles and old assumptions about him. He had a tender heart and he was so good with a young boy who just needed to be believed.
Ashley and Micah's story has been building to a crisis point. Micah is being so patient with her. In this book, she turned down right ugly (another Beast) to Micah and to her own son in her effort to squelch an imaginary pirate fixation and any feelings that she felt was a betrayal to her dead husband. I couldn't believe to what lengths she went to to block Topher's dream (NOT HER BUSINESS) and her son's. What she did was so wrong and yet it was barely noted. Does it come up in the next book? I really don't know what to think of her. I guess I pity her and hope she can get things untangled inside her head before she drives off everyone she loves the most. Need her story Stat!
I enjoyed it all and this was an amazing read until the very end- when it just ended leaving me with more than one unanswered question about the main couple and more like I mentioned about Ashley. The side stuff being left open was no big deal as it will carry over into the next book. But, for me not to know how some things resolved that were part of the main conflict was disappointing. The romance itself resolved, but things in their lives did not.
I can't recommend this series enough if contemporary romance fans want deep and thoughtful characterization, descriptive and engaging setting and plot, well-developed and a little spicy romance.
My thanks to Forever for the opportunity to read this book in exchange for an honest review.
So, the characters
May 19, 2024
So I have mixed feelings about this one. I definitely enjoyed reading it and the characters were people I could understand & relate to, but I truly hated the ending of the book. I guess I feel the ending was preconceived or it was just written that way as that is what the author needed / wanted to happen. But if anyone with half a brain (especially if you can relate to Jessica as a character) you just KNOW its not going to work. Not really. I mean it will sort of "work" but she will be miserable and unhappy and probably end up with lots of regrets. I know these authors like to try and write these "enemy into lovers" things but there is just too much wrong with the scenario in this book. That town is NOT good for her.. And she needs to get out of there.
This story is about two damaged people from the same town (who went to school together) who later meet up as adults. And they get into this relationship by chance. Accident. He is physically scarred from a car accident. He has a bad leg and he has scars on his face now from wrapping his car around a tree. But he is filthy rich but he wants to hide due to his current appearance. His name is Christopher but everyone calls him Topher.
She is Jessica. She designs houses and buildings. And Topher wants someone to build him a new house on this island. So he hires her. But since Jessica has moved back to town she has issues. She has mental trauma going on. From her own family. They never believe what she says (even though she tells them the truth) and they constantly pick on her. Even her pink dress is "all wrong". And she is tired of being treated this way and all of the gossip.
The various situations in here were very fascinating to read. I definitely could relate to their problems, especially to Jessica. Which is why I cannot abide that ending. It was like it was just "tacked on" at the end? Without the proper steps to actually get there? Plus its not good for her mental health to actually live there. Those people are not going to change. And you cannot avoid those townspeople if you live in the town. The book made it VERY clear how they treat her. What they think of her. It is abuse. No man - especially one who only reminds her of her father - is worth the abuse from living there.
I did like the bits in here about young Jackie and the pirate ghost he talks to.
I did enjoy reading this but I don't think the end is correct.
This story is about two damaged people from the same town (who went to school together) who later meet up as adults. And they get into this relationship by chance. Accident. He is physically scarred from a car accident. He has a bad leg and he has scars on his face now from wrapping his car around a tree. But he is filthy rich but he wants to hide due to his current appearance. His name is Christopher but everyone calls him Topher.
She is Jessica. She designs houses and buildings. And Topher wants someone to build him a new house on this island. So he hires her. But since Jessica has moved back to town she has issues. She has mental trauma going on. From her own family. They never believe what she says (even though she tells them the truth) and they constantly pick on her. Even her pink dress is "all wrong". And she is tired of being treated this way and all of the gossip.
The various situations in here were very fascinating to read. I definitely could relate to their problems, especially to Jessica. Which is why I cannot abide that ending. It was like it was just "tacked on" at the end? Without the proper steps to actually get there? Plus its not good for her mental health to actually live there. Those people are not going to change. And you cannot avoid those townspeople if you live in the town. The book made it VERY clear how they treat her. What they think of her. It is abuse. No man - especially one who only reminds her of her father - is worth the abuse from living there.
I did like the bits in here about young Jackie and the pirate ghost he talks to.
I did enjoy reading this but I don't think the end is correct.
June 3, 2020
Awesome book! I loved every minute of this book, in fact this was one of those books you just dont want it to end.
Great storyline and awesome indepth characters that drew me right in to the story! Grab this book and I promise you wont be disappointed!
Great storyline and awesome indepth characters that drew me right in to the story! Grab this book and I promise you wont be disappointed!
May 23, 2023
Nice ending. Characters didn’t click with me much.
I have enjoyed other books by this author and will check out any titles that come my way.
I have enjoyed other books by this author and will check out any titles that come my way.
July 26, 2020
I rarely dive into a series mid-stream, because I usually can't feel the connections to the characters that were forged in the previous books, since I haven't read them. However, I was fairly confident, given my experience reading books by Hope Ramsay, that I could start anywhere in the series and be perfectly fine. This book could absolutely be read as a standalone, although I do have the feeling there are parts of the book I could appreciate more had I started from Book 1. While the underlying trope with this book is Beauty and the Beast, there are a lot more elements at play than just a love story. The author touches on racial tensions, parental emotional abuse, and the idea of forgiveness even when the other person has never apologized. It can be a difficult book to read if you have even remotely experienced any of the above, because it will definitely dig deep into your emotions. While the cover seems bright and cheerful, the story within is best characterized as dark and emotional.
Jessica Blackwood never intended to return to Magnolia Harbor, after she was essentially banished from her hometown by her father sixteen years ago. Sent away to a school for troubled girls, for a "crime" she did not commit, she has never forgiven her family for not believing her. However, when her mother was ill two years ago, she returned, and now that her mother has passed, she is left with a grandmother who disdains her and an aunt who tries to keep the peace. Christopher Martin, or Topher to his friends, remembers Jessica as brave, but she got involved with the wrong person as a teen and paid for that decision, He has returned to Magnolia Harbor a broken and scarred man after a terrible car accident, and all he wants is for Jessica to build him a house on a neighboring island, where he can live his life away from people. However, all Jessica remembers is that he was a member of the football team who spread nasty rumors about her in high school, and she has never forgiven him. It's just a job to her, but as they spend more time together, the truth comes to light and soon a decision must be made about how much they're willing to fight for what they want.
This was a really engaging story, though one that took me a few days to get through due to the heavy themes. It was interesting how racial tension was apparent without being obvious, which I think is how things often work. There was only one moment in the book where it was written out plainly, when one of the secondary characters comments how it was annoying that "the most eligible bachelor of color" was interested in a white woman. That put me off a bit, since it was fairly early on in the story and this character is getting their own book later, but I forged on hoping that such thinking wouldn't be so overtly apparent throughout the book. Thankfully it wasn't, though it was definitely implied by several other characters. I enjoyed the character development between Jessica and Topher, especially as they uncovered secrets about each other and learned to forgive. It was a story of forgiveness, for sure, and healing, and without the two of them together, it would have been harder, if not impossible, for them to move forward in their lives. They stuck up for each other, even when it wasn't easy, and I appreciated that. I was so proud of Jessica when she became more confident in herself and spoke out against the people who had been looking down on her for so many years.
Hope Ramsay always writes an engaging story, and I'm now motivated to read the other books in the series! I can't wait to learn more about Magnolia Harbor and all the people living there.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**
Jessica Blackwood never intended to return to Magnolia Harbor, after she was essentially banished from her hometown by her father sixteen years ago. Sent away to a school for troubled girls, for a "crime" she did not commit, she has never forgiven her family for not believing her. However, when her mother was ill two years ago, she returned, and now that her mother has passed, she is left with a grandmother who disdains her and an aunt who tries to keep the peace. Christopher Martin, or Topher to his friends, remembers Jessica as brave, but she got involved with the wrong person as a teen and paid for that decision, He has returned to Magnolia Harbor a broken and scarred man after a terrible car accident, and all he wants is for Jessica to build him a house on a neighboring island, where he can live his life away from people. However, all Jessica remembers is that he was a member of the football team who spread nasty rumors about her in high school, and she has never forgiven him. It's just a job to her, but as they spend more time together, the truth comes to light and soon a decision must be made about how much they're willing to fight for what they want.
This was a really engaging story, though one that took me a few days to get through due to the heavy themes. It was interesting how racial tension was apparent without being obvious, which I think is how things often work. There was only one moment in the book where it was written out plainly, when one of the secondary characters comments how it was annoying that "the most eligible bachelor of color" was interested in a white woman. That put me off a bit, since it was fairly early on in the story and this character is getting their own book later, but I forged on hoping that such thinking wouldn't be so overtly apparent throughout the book. Thankfully it wasn't, though it was definitely implied by several other characters. I enjoyed the character development between Jessica and Topher, especially as they uncovered secrets about each other and learned to forgive. It was a story of forgiveness, for sure, and healing, and without the two of them together, it would have been harder, if not impossible, for them to move forward in their lives. They stuck up for each other, even when it wasn't easy, and I appreciated that. I was so proud of Jessica when she became more confident in herself and spoke out against the people who had been looking down on her for so many years.
Hope Ramsay always writes an engaging story, and I'm now motivated to read the other books in the series! I can't wait to learn more about Magnolia Harbor and all the people living there.
**I received a free copy via NetGalley and this is my honest review.**
June 26, 2020
Return to Magnolia Harbor is the third book in Hope Ramsey’s Moonlight Bay series. Our heroine Jessica Blackwood hopes to make a success of her architectural design firm, so she lands an amazing job. Unfortunately, the client is none other than her high school nemesis, Chrstopher “Topher” Martin. Topher has learned the error of his ways after a recent accident that left him scarred mentally and physically. Now that he’s back in Magnolia Harbor and working with Jessica, he’s hoping to make amends. But is Jessica willing to forgive him?
This was my first book by Hope Ramsey and I was intrigued by the blurb and the cover. I love a good small town romance set in a beach community, and I especially love a redemption story. This book is packed with the usual small town gossip and intrigue most romance readers expect, though I will say some of the residents of this story come off much darker than most small town romance characters. This may turn off some readers that were expecting a lighter read.
The main couple of Topher and Jessica were good on the page together, but a bit vanilla for my taste. There is a Beauty and the Beast theme that is running throughout this story, and I enjoyed that piece of the romance. However, there were also undertones of Christian morals and beliefs that I didn’t not expect. As a non-religious person, and a reader that enjoys more steam this made the story drag for me. I don’t need explicit scenes in a novel, but I do need to feel that passion and connection in a much more tangible way.
The plot is a pretty simple second chance/redemption story which is a very popular trope. I enjoyed some of the secondary characters, especially the pirate obsessed kid and his search for treasure. There were pieces of the story that really worked for me, unfortunately it was overshadowed by how clean and wholesome the story was. It felt like the equivalent of reading the script of a Hallmark channel movie. There’s very little in the way of external conflict, much of the conflict comes from the main characters themselves which can be fine in some books, but did not work for me here.
I think this book just didn’t work for me on a personal level because I’m not usually a fan of this type of book. However, fans of clean or sweet romances may still enjoy the story. The writing is definitely well executed and the storyline was adequate. I just needed the characters and the romance to be much more passionate than what we were given. This book reminded me a lot of Sheryl Woods or Debbie Macomber, so if you’re a fan of their works you’ll enjoy this novel. For me it was just only okay, so I gave it three stars.
~ Lindsey
This was my first book by Hope Ramsey and I was intrigued by the blurb and the cover. I love a good small town romance set in a beach community, and I especially love a redemption story. This book is packed with the usual small town gossip and intrigue most romance readers expect, though I will say some of the residents of this story come off much darker than most small town romance characters. This may turn off some readers that were expecting a lighter read.
The main couple of Topher and Jessica were good on the page together, but a bit vanilla for my taste. There is a Beauty and the Beast theme that is running throughout this story, and I enjoyed that piece of the romance. However, there were also undertones of Christian morals and beliefs that I didn’t not expect. As a non-religious person, and a reader that enjoys more steam this made the story drag for me. I don’t need explicit scenes in a novel, but I do need to feel that passion and connection in a much more tangible way.
The plot is a pretty simple second chance/redemption story which is a very popular trope. I enjoyed some of the secondary characters, especially the pirate obsessed kid and his search for treasure. There were pieces of the story that really worked for me, unfortunately it was overshadowed by how clean and wholesome the story was. It felt like the equivalent of reading the script of a Hallmark channel movie. There’s very little in the way of external conflict, much of the conflict comes from the main characters themselves which can be fine in some books, but did not work for me here.
I think this book just didn’t work for me on a personal level because I’m not usually a fan of this type of book. However, fans of clean or sweet romances may still enjoy the story. The writing is definitely well executed and the storyline was adequate. I just needed the characters and the romance to be much more passionate than what we were given. This book reminded me a lot of Sheryl Woods or Debbie Macomber, so if you’re a fan of their works you’ll enjoy this novel. For me it was just only okay, so I gave it three stars.
~ Lindsey
July 5, 2020
Received in exchange for a honest review
What I like about this book is that Christopher grew up. He learned from his past and wanted forgiveness. He doesn’t want to be seen by Jessica as the person who tormented her in high school but as the man she is today. Do they have some missteps along the way? Yes. Especially when they are fighting for the same concept in the town and someone wants them stopped.
Christopher is successful, handsome and reclusive. He has come back to Magnolia Harbor to build a dream home. A home his grandfather dreamed of but in a different way. He doesn’t want the pretentious castle on the island but one that goes with the island. He wants to maintain what the island is about and preserve it’s beauty as well.
Jessica is a architect trying to make her way. She doesn’t quite trust Christopher but takes on the project because it can make her career. When she begins the project she doesn’t really give Christopher the chance due to their past. In fact her first blueprint shows this. Christopher doesn’t give up though and shows her his thoughts. He gets her to see what he is thinking and they begin to learn more about one another. Does she trust him? Not really but she does learn he isn’t what she thought he was.
They don’t start as friends but slowly become them. They learn to trust one another and their attraction is through the roof. Jessica does hold back and isn’t always open with Christopher which does hurt them as much as those that are trying to change the town are. I love how they work together to figure things out and begin to trust one another. How they don’t go into instalove but find love as they learn about one another, begin to trust each other and find forgiveness within and with each other. As they uncover secrets and help each other, they find themselves and where they want to be-with each other.
The characters are likeable especially Christopher. When he is with his nephew i melt. He loves that little guy and helps him with a project that uncovers so much I didn’t expect to read about. Jessica I had to warm up to because she let the past dictate her feelings a wee bit to much. She was a nice girl just a little to stubborn on the whole trust of Christopher thing. The story is fun and sweet. A story of family, friendship and love. Of forgiveness and letting go and of finding where you belong and with who you belong.
What I like about this book is that Christopher grew up. He learned from his past and wanted forgiveness. He doesn’t want to be seen by Jessica as the person who tormented her in high school but as the man she is today. Do they have some missteps along the way? Yes. Especially when they are fighting for the same concept in the town and someone wants them stopped.
Christopher is successful, handsome and reclusive. He has come back to Magnolia Harbor to build a dream home. A home his grandfather dreamed of but in a different way. He doesn’t want the pretentious castle on the island but one that goes with the island. He wants to maintain what the island is about and preserve it’s beauty as well.
Jessica is a architect trying to make her way. She doesn’t quite trust Christopher but takes on the project because it can make her career. When she begins the project she doesn’t really give Christopher the chance due to their past. In fact her first blueprint shows this. Christopher doesn’t give up though and shows her his thoughts. He gets her to see what he is thinking and they begin to learn more about one another. Does she trust him? Not really but she does learn he isn’t what she thought he was.
They don’t start as friends but slowly become them. They learn to trust one another and their attraction is through the roof. Jessica does hold back and isn’t always open with Christopher which does hurt them as much as those that are trying to change the town are. I love how they work together to figure things out and begin to trust one another. How they don’t go into instalove but find love as they learn about one another, begin to trust each other and find forgiveness within and with each other. As they uncover secrets and help each other, they find themselves and where they want to be-with each other.
The characters are likeable especially Christopher. When he is with his nephew i melt. He loves that little guy and helps him with a project that uncovers so much I didn’t expect to read about. Jessica I had to warm up to because she let the past dictate her feelings a wee bit to much. She was a nice girl just a little to stubborn on the whole trust of Christopher thing. The story is fun and sweet. A story of family, friendship and love. Of forgiveness and letting go and of finding where you belong and with who you belong.
May 2, 2021
Was she his tormentor or an angel come in answer to an unspoken prayer?
First and foremost thank you to my friends at Forever for sending this my way! I adored the first two books in the series, The Cottage on Rose Lane and Summer on Moonlight Bay, so I was beyond thrilled to be able to take a trip back to Magnolia Harbor!
She couldn’t decide if Topher was the evil jerk she’d painted him to be or a good guy who’d taken a wrong turn on a twisty road.
Enemies to lovers is my favorite trope in romance, but I will say this felt like it was a little more on the mild side. This had all the classic elements I’ve come to know and love from Hope Ramsay’s series; meddling locals, sailing and lakeside fun, and compelling, grumpy heroes. I loved the premise of the book; our scarred and grumpy hero returns home and wants to build a magnificent home on an isolated island and he turns to his old schoolmate who has also returned home to make a name for herself as an architect. Sounds perfect, right? And it was, for the most part.
I love love loved Topher as a main character! He was the perfect amount of frosty and rude (I love a grumpy hero) and his turning points and the thawing of his heart was perfect, really. He was my favorite part of this novel. My issue for this book really stemmed from the heroine, Jessica. She was… annoying, at best. Here’s what I don’t get; she had this awful experience as a teen and is all focused on how the town people have never accepted her or liked her and have just done nothing but spread rumors about her. And yet she comes back? And thus spends the whole book stressing about what people think of her? It was odd at first, but then when she says the same stuff the entire book I just couldn’t help rolling my eyes. Like honey, just move away and live your life! It was exhausting to see and overshadowed the romance, in my opinion.
One of the other things I’ve loved about this series thus far is the storyline that includes Ashley, her son, and the pastor. The sexual tension between Ashley and Micah St. Pierre has been building for three whole books and I am SO READY for these two to get together, already! I wish Ramsay would give them their own story because it would be phenomenal, I’m sure. But for now I’ll enjoy seeing them blossom slowly.
While the romance at the center of the book wasn’t the best in this series, I still enjoyed the book overall. From Topher as the hero, the sprinkling of mystery and history and a ghost (yes, a ghost), and the continued romance between Ashley and Micah, I enjoyed my trip back to Magnolia Harbor! I’m looking forward to another trip back, soon!
You can check out other full reviews, author interviews, and bookish talks at Tonkin About Books!
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May 19, 2020
Architect Jessica Blackwood is hired to design a home for a very wealthy bachelor. That wealthy bachelor turns out to be Christopher Martin, a former classmate who used to torment her in high school. After an accident which has left him with noticeable injuries, he has become a recluse and longs for a home to hide away in.
I received a finished copy of this book from Forever in exchange for an honest review.
There’s quite a lot to unpack in this story from rumor mills, to abusive men, to the town’s local history and so much more.
The beauty and the beast aspect of this story appealed to me most—both the romance and the “don’t judge a book by its cover” sentiment implied. There is a lot more to Topher than Jessica realizes.
But I feel like Jessica’s ability to remain a strong, rebellious woman in the face of adversity (an entire town judging her since she was a teenager) was constantly overshadowed by Topher’s development as a “town hero.”
By the end of the story, everyone knows that Topher is a good guy deep down who has never sought out praise for doing good deeds. But Jessica, who has been lied to, torn down, and gossiped about at every turn, is never truly celebrated for standing up for herself.
Important lessons on forgiveness are Christian-inspired, but still universal.
The mystery of the town’s history is definitely interesting, but I haven’t been paying enough attention to it throughout the series to actually piece together what the plot twist is.
Ramsay sort of brings out the worst of small towns in this series with all the hurtful gossip and irritating side characters. Will Colton and Kerri get another story? Theirs sort of blew up here. Ashley is hard to love—she doesn’t know what to make of Jackie believing in ghosts, but she’s also a big pain in the ass.
I received a finished copy of this book from Forever in exchange for an honest review.
There’s quite a lot to unpack in this story from rumor mills, to abusive men, to the town’s local history and so much more.
The beauty and the beast aspect of this story appealed to me most—both the romance and the “don’t judge a book by its cover” sentiment implied. There is a lot more to Topher than Jessica realizes.
But I feel like Jessica’s ability to remain a strong, rebellious woman in the face of adversity (an entire town judging her since she was a teenager) was constantly overshadowed by Topher’s development as a “town hero.”
By the end of the story, everyone knows that Topher is a good guy deep down who has never sought out praise for doing good deeds. But Jessica, who has been lied to, torn down, and gossiped about at every turn, is never truly celebrated for standing up for herself.
Important lessons on forgiveness are Christian-inspired, but still universal.
The mystery of the town’s history is definitely interesting, but I haven’t been paying enough attention to it throughout the series to actually piece together what the plot twist is.
Ramsay sort of brings out the worst of small towns in this series with all the hurtful gossip and irritating side characters. Will Colton and Kerri get another story? Theirs sort of blew up here. Ashley is hard to love—she doesn’t know what to make of Jackie believing in ghosts, but she’s also a big pain in the ass.
July 20, 2020
Jessica Blackwell wants to make a success of her architectural firm. She is on her way when she gets an assignment from a reclusive bachelor in town, but there is one problem. Years before, Christopher Martin, Topher, and Jessica had a history—and not a good one. However, things have changed since then. Topher, physically damaged by an accident, is no longer the cocky, tormenting boy he once was. Jessica is also intrigued by Topher, despite her bad memories. Topher wants nothing more than to make amends for his shameful behavior years ago, but he is struggling to figure out how and if that is possible. As the pair work together on the house she is designing, he begins to realize he wants the house and the woman he tormented so many years ago. However, as I said, is that even possible with their history?
This is the third installment in a series. I have not read any of the other books, but I read this one as a stand-alone. The relationship between Topher and Jessica is a nice vanilla one. However, I was not so sure about the chemistry or intensity between them. Jessica came across as naïve and weak at times. Though good as a couple, I did find Jessica and Topher rather too vanilla for my taste. There was conflict, but no internal conflict. For me, it was not easy to get into and stay with the book. Still, there is a lot of small town in this book, including gossip, townsfolk intrigue, and romance. It may be because I have not read the other books in the series that I found this one flat, though I have read lots of the author’s works and have concluded this one is different. This just will never be my favorite. However, it may be yours. I received this from NetGalley to read and review.
This is the third installment in a series. I have not read any of the other books, but I read this one as a stand-alone. The relationship between Topher and Jessica is a nice vanilla one. However, I was not so sure about the chemistry or intensity between them. Jessica came across as naïve and weak at times. Though good as a couple, I did find Jessica and Topher rather too vanilla for my taste. There was conflict, but no internal conflict. For me, it was not easy to get into and stay with the book. Still, there is a lot of small town in this book, including gossip, townsfolk intrigue, and romance. It may be because I have not read the other books in the series that I found this one flat, though I have read lots of the author’s works and have concluded this one is different. This just will never be my favorite. However, it may be yours. I received this from NetGalley to read and review.
June 9, 2020
We are back in Magnolia Harbor, a town filled with history, gossip, lies and misunderstandings.
This time the story belongs to Jessica Blackwood and Christopher/Topher Martin.
Jessica’s memories of her hometown are not good, but she’s recently left her stable job to open an architectural design firm in the town that still frowns on her. She’s a believer of always saying the truth. Sadly, those that should have protected her as a child and teenager, didn’t and send her away.
Topher, at one time the football hero, is back in town, recovering from an accident that has left him badly scarred. He’s become a recluse wishing to build a home on the island outside of town.
Jessica always believed Topher was the one that started false rumors in HS, but now that he seeks her and offers her a lucrative project , they begin to work together. Neither realized that truths would be revealed and feelings would develop.
But the obstacles and doubts are too much to overcome, or are they?
This is not only a story about family, or lack thereof, of how rumors can destroy a life, and how some scars are not only on the outside of a person. It’s also a story about having faith , hope and giving love a chance .
At times heartbreaking, this is a story that is thought provoking and one that will touch your hearts.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
This time the story belongs to Jessica Blackwood and Christopher/Topher Martin.
Jessica’s memories of her hometown are not good, but she’s recently left her stable job to open an architectural design firm in the town that still frowns on her. She’s a believer of always saying the truth. Sadly, those that should have protected her as a child and teenager, didn’t and send her away.
Topher, at one time the football hero, is back in town, recovering from an accident that has left him badly scarred. He’s become a recluse wishing to build a home on the island outside of town.
Jessica always believed Topher was the one that started false rumors in HS, but now that he seeks her and offers her a lucrative project , they begin to work together. Neither realized that truths would be revealed and feelings would develop.
But the obstacles and doubts are too much to overcome, or are they?
This is not only a story about family, or lack thereof, of how rumors can destroy a life, and how some scars are not only on the outside of a person. It’s also a story about having faith , hope and giving love a chance .
At times heartbreaking, this is a story that is thought provoking and one that will touch your hearts.
I was entrusted a copy of this book by Netgalley. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
July 14, 2020
Jessica is a architect who is doing pretty well for herself after working on an unusual house. Now shes on for her next job when she finds out he's from her home town and someone who gave her a hard time in the past. She didn't have the best time in her hometown but will take on the job if only to do the job she was given and settle her curiosity.
I really enjoyed this book. It was interesting getting to know Jessica's past and seeing her family life and how lies really ruined her life. But she refused to let that bring her down she rose up and got herself a decent job and now back in her hometown dealing with issues of the past. She had a hard time getting past the gossip and issues back then and its clearly a small town if no one forgets. Doesn't help that she'll be working with someone she knew Christopher who was one of the people who tormented her. Thing is its been years and you'd think things would chance. Just it was interesting seeing how things were handled. Then there was a bit bit of the romance, home town drama and with everything together it comes to down to having one interesting book.
I really enjoyed this book. It was interesting getting to know Jessica's past and seeing her family life and how lies really ruined her life. But she refused to let that bring her down she rose up and got herself a decent job and now back in her hometown dealing with issues of the past. She had a hard time getting past the gossip and issues back then and its clearly a small town if no one forgets. Doesn't help that she'll be working with someone she knew Christopher who was one of the people who tormented her. Thing is its been years and you'd think things would chance. Just it was interesting seeing how things were handled. Then there was a bit bit of the romance, home town drama and with everything together it comes to down to having one interesting book.
July 19, 2020
Review featured at www.books-n-kisses.com
What if you ended up having to work with your childhood bully? Could you do it? Well that is what Jessica has to figure out. Christopher was terrible to Jessica as kids but now they are adults and he has returned to Magnolia Harbor and wants to build a perfect home there. Jessica is an architect and it is hard for her to trust anything he says. Old feelings of being teased and tricked come up to haunt her.
But as Christopher and Jessica work together their adult feelings start to override their childhood feelings. But there is so much more to their relationship than just working together they have to deal with the city and the people inside it.
I really liked Topher. He is just adorable when he deals with his nephew. And honestly he is who every childhood bully should be as an adult. Kids are mean but adults should be able to look back and realize their mistakes. Jess is a bit slow on the forgiveness but then he put her through a lot. So you can sorta see it.
Another great story from Hope Ramsay.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
What if you ended up having to work with your childhood bully? Could you do it? Well that is what Jessica has to figure out. Christopher was terrible to Jessica as kids but now they are adults and he has returned to Magnolia Harbor and wants to build a perfect home there. Jessica is an architect and it is hard for her to trust anything he says. Old feelings of being teased and tricked come up to haunt her.
But as Christopher and Jessica work together their adult feelings start to override their childhood feelings. But there is so much more to their relationship than just working together they have to deal with the city and the people inside it.
I really liked Topher. He is just adorable when he deals with his nephew. And honestly he is who every childhood bully should be as an adult. Kids are mean but adults should be able to look back and realize their mistakes. Jess is a bit slow on the forgiveness but then he put her through a lot. So you can sorta see it.
Another great story from Hope Ramsay.
Disclaimer:
I received a complimentary copy of the book in exchange for an honest review.
June 13, 2020
I am a big fan of small town, southern romances, which is why I picked this one up. To me, it really felt a little bland - I didn't feel like I had a good picture of the town, or life there, other than the gossip. I also just didn't connect with the main characters, Jessica and Topher. The way their love story evolved despite their past history kept me interested in the story, which is why I am giving it 3 stars.
I also felt like the author left some loose ends - despite how important Colton supposedly was to Jessica, their story wasn't really resolved. He really played a minor part in the story, and I didn't find him particularly likeable. I would really have liked to see the characters developed more. Also, the house Topher plans to build is the reason he and Jessica connect, but he never really goes into what he plans to actually do with such a large house, or explain to Jessica why it is so important to him; she doesn't really seem to care, other than for her fee.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and Net Galley, in exchange for an honest review.
I also felt like the author left some loose ends - despite how important Colton supposedly was to Jessica, their story wasn't really resolved. He really played a minor part in the story, and I didn't find him particularly likeable. I would really have liked to see the characters developed more. Also, the house Topher plans to build is the reason he and Jessica connect, but he never really goes into what he plans to actually do with such a large house, or explain to Jessica why it is so important to him; she doesn't really seem to care, other than for her fee.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher and Net Galley, in exchange for an honest review.
June 23, 2020
This was such a sweet story!
High school acquaintances get reunited after their return to Magnolia Harbor. Wrapped up in a little bit of mystery, these two connect over Jessica designing a house for Topher. They start off as enemies, due to circumstances of the past. They slowly work their way to understanding, then friendship, then more. I loved the slow burn aspect of this sweet romance.
There is a secondary mystery involving the small town.
There is also a discussion challenging the racism of a lot of the town, and how some people acted and reacted around a friendship Jessica had with her black friend from high school, Colton. I appreciate that the old world views were challenged, and that our main characters were the ones accepting the people of color in their community.
All in all, I really enjoyed the journey of this book! I can't wait to read more in this series, as the small costal town has definitely hinted at a couple of other pairings in this book!
High school acquaintances get reunited after their return to Magnolia Harbor. Wrapped up in a little bit of mystery, these two connect over Jessica designing a house for Topher. They start off as enemies, due to circumstances of the past. They slowly work their way to understanding, then friendship, then more. I loved the slow burn aspect of this sweet romance.
There is a secondary mystery involving the small town.
There is also a discussion challenging the racism of a lot of the town, and how some people acted and reacted around a friendship Jessica had with her black friend from high school, Colton. I appreciate that the old world views were challenged, and that our main characters were the ones accepting the people of color in their community.
All in all, I really enjoyed the journey of this book! I can't wait to read more in this series, as the small costal town has definitely hinted at a couple of other pairings in this book!
August 27, 2020
Jessica had a rough upbringing and a miserable time in high school but she’s back in her hometown and is a respectable architect who owns her own business. Christoper had everything, money, looks and a bright future until he wrapped his car around a tree and was left scared. Now he wants Jessica to build him an escape. She is prejudice from her high school memories and he is proud. Despite all the things against them, they become friends and Christopher wants more but can Jessica forgive him?
This book is well written and a very quick read. #returntomagnoliaharbor is a play on the beauty and the beast trope. It was very enjoyable but too short in my opinion. I liked this book and will be reading again and hopefully more of the #moonlightbaynovel series!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
#bookstagram #netgalleyreads #bookrecommendations #hoperamsay #moonlightbaynovelseries #returntomagnoliaharbor
This book is well written and a very quick read. #returntomagnoliaharbor is a play on the beauty and the beast trope. It was very enjoyable but too short in my opinion. I liked this book and will be reading again and hopefully more of the #moonlightbaynovel series!
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.
#bookstagram #netgalleyreads #bookrecommendations #hoperamsay #moonlightbaynovelseries #returntomagnoliaharbor
June 4, 2020
I really enjoyed this story. The storyline flowed well, the pacing was just right and the characters were all well-developed. But... I was also a little bit frustrated with certain aspects of the story. Mainly my problem is with Ashley Scott, the hero Topher Martin's relative . She really annoyed me and I found myself not liking her very much even though she didn't bother me in previous books in the series. I imagine Ashley will eventually have her own story in this series and I sure hope Ms. Ramsay can redeem her in my eyes. It's going to take a lot. Otherwise Topher Martin and heroine Jessica Blackwood as a couple makes me smile. They both have baggage to deal with but eventually manage to let things go and find their Happily Ever After. I am looking forward to the next book in the series.
June 13, 2020
Jessica has been bullied all her life, first by high school boys, and an emotionally abusive family. Regardless, she is now an accomplished architect who is asked to design a home for one of the town’s returning golden boys, Topher.
Topher is going through his own issue, having been injured and disfigured in an accident. All he wants is to be alone in the house he thinks he wants, on an island.
This book is the second in the Magnolia Harbor series, but each is a stand-alone novel, characters from the first book make appearances, but not so much that it detracts from the storyline. I enjoyed both of the books, but this one a bit more than the first. I guess I just like underdog stories with HEA endings.
The book is well-edited and moves along. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review, but my opinions are my own.
Topher is going through his own issue, having been injured and disfigured in an accident. All he wants is to be alone in the house he thinks he wants, on an island.
This book is the second in the Magnolia Harbor series, but each is a stand-alone novel, characters from the first book make appearances, but not so much that it detracts from the storyline. I enjoyed both of the books, but this one a bit more than the first. I guess I just like underdog stories with HEA endings.
The book is well-edited and moves along. Thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for the opportunity to read and review, but my opinions are my own.
June 23, 2020
What a great story. Jessica has certainly had to put up with a lot of junk in her life. Have you ever been telling the truth, but no one would listen? She certainly handled it better than I would have. Go with her as she deals with what life throws at her and watch her grow and learn what is really important. I enjoyed getting to know Topher too. It’s amazing what we perceive people to be, but when we really get to know them, we just might be pleasantly surprised. I always thought I wanted a big family, but I might have to rethink that after meeting some of these folks. Course living in a small town, you know how gossip can flow and some of these folks had that down to a science. I hope you enjoy your visit to Magnolia Harbor as much as I did. I received this book from NetGalley, but my opinion is my own.
April 26, 2020
**** Return to Magnolia Harbor. Hope Ramsey has created a small southern coastal town on Magnolia Harbor populated with busybodies, gossips and secrets. There are those who actively participate and those who just stand by but never protest against untruths. There are those who interfere in the lives of others by convincing themselves that their motives are pure...that they know the better way. Secrets also have a way of being found out...especially when a young boy, enamored with pirates, especially one rumored to be one of the town’s founders, gets involved. This well plotted story moves along a fairly rapid pace toward a conclusion with a message about forgiveness. I voluntarily reviewed an advance copy of this book from NetGalley. Highly recommend.
June 5, 2020
This is a Beauty and the Beast and also maybe an enemies to lovers trope. It was fun and easy to read. Topher's scars are visible on the outside and cause visible reactions from the people he encounters when he ventures out into the world, but Jessica doesn't seemed repulsed by him.
Jessica's scars are invisible to the eye, but are very prominent on the inside--and Jessica holds Topher responsible for the damage. Can she forgive the man in order to work for him? Could she have been wrong about him all this time?
I love Hope Ramsay's characters and these are no exception. The small town feel is welcome and expertly displayed. Love always wins in her books--yeah!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.
Jessica's scars are invisible to the eye, but are very prominent on the inside--and Jessica holds Topher responsible for the damage. Can she forgive the man in order to work for him? Could she have been wrong about him all this time?
I love Hope Ramsay's characters and these are no exception. The small town feel is welcome and expertly displayed. Love always wins in her books--yeah!
I was given a complimentary copy of this book via NetGalley. All thoughts are my own.
June 23, 2020
In this “Beauty and the Beast” based romance, Jessica is hired to build Topher a recluse-type hideaway on an island, after having suffered a life-altering car crash.
Overall, I enjoyed this book, however, there were so many different storylines throughout this novel, that at times my head was spinning. LOL. I liked the characters, but there were a couple of times I got them mixed up and had to re-read. This book was written in multi-person POV, which at times was confusing.
I like Hope Ramsey’s books and have read several of them, but this one was a bit of an overload so I struggled at times. I will give this a 3.75 stars, but will round up to 4. I definitely don’t want to discourage anyone from reading it.
Overall, I enjoyed this book, however, there were so many different storylines throughout this novel, that at times my head was spinning. LOL. I liked the characters, but there were a couple of times I got them mixed up and had to re-read. This book was written in multi-person POV, which at times was confusing.
I like Hope Ramsey’s books and have read several of them, but this one was a bit of an overload so I struggled at times. I will give this a 3.75 stars, but will round up to 4. I definitely don’t want to discourage anyone from reading it.
September 1, 2020
This is book 3 in the Moonlight Bay series. It's about having courage to be true to yourself no matter what others think or say. Jessica is an architect who is running her small office in her hometown of Magnolia Harbor. She is hired by Christopher Martin who returns rich and bitter after an accident has left him scarred and reclusive. When the town tries to stop him building on his small island there is more than just esthetics at stake. Someone is trying to bring a major resort to the area. Half the town thinks it's great and many are against the change. Christopher and Jessica work together to find out who's behind the plot. I received a copy of this ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
May 18, 2020
Beauty and the beast trope set in a small beach-town is a perfectly heartwarming read. Both the lead characters have gone through some traumatic circumstances in their lives and need some love to thrive in life. How they find each other when the whole town seems to be intruding in their lives and constantly gossiping is a beautiful journey that is pretty endearing.
It was a really quick read! I also liked the little kid who is obsessed with pirates and treasure hunting. The main theme of forgiveness and moving on is really well-written! This is perfect for those looking for non-steamy and emotional small town love stories.
It was a really quick read! I also liked the little kid who is obsessed with pirates and treasure hunting. The main theme of forgiveness and moving on is really well-written! This is perfect for those looking for non-steamy and emotional small town love stories.
July 1, 2020
Great third book in this series
I had a hard time putting down this book to go to sleep. Just one more chapter, I told myself (liar). Seven chapters later, I finally went to sleep. This story just sucked me in. Sprinkled among the new people (Jess, an architect, and (Chris)Topher, a rich guy disfigured by an accident), are a few familiar faces.
I will say both Jess and Topher endure judgemental and interfering family members, who are a roadblock in Jess and Topher's evolving relationship. And these two have enough personal baggage to sabotage their relationship without the family members interference!
I had a hard time putting down this book to go to sleep. Just one more chapter, I told myself (liar). Seven chapters later, I finally went to sleep. This story just sucked me in. Sprinkled among the new people (Jess, an architect, and (Chris)Topher, a rich guy disfigured by an accident), are a few familiar faces.
I will say both Jess and Topher endure judgemental and interfering family members, who are a roadblock in Jess and Topher's evolving relationship. And these two have enough personal baggage to sabotage their relationship without the family members interference!
June 2, 2020
Jessica is living in the town she was raised in. She is a successful architect who came back to care for her Mother before she passed. Jessica has been trying to live down untrue gossip about her for years, but no one believes her side of the story. This is a story about a small town where everyone thinks they know other people’s business and are happy to spread gossip even if the stories aren’t true. This essentially a book about forgiveness. I loved reading the story and meeting the characters. Thank you to net galley for an advanced readers copy.
June 14, 2020
This book was so good. Jess was back in town building her own architural firm when she ran into Topher was also back after a horrific accident that left him scarred and with a badly injured leg. It was interesting to see these two dance around each other. Both had upbringings that were not ideal, but Jess's made her not want to connect with anyone. Small towns do love their gossip and they don't always care if it true or not. The story was captivating and I couldn't put it down. Very good characters - some good and some bad. Well written.
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