In Ankerplaats, het derde deel in de serie Hope Harbor, neemt Irene Hannon de lezer weer mee naar het gelijknamige idyllische kustplaatsje. Daar bloeit een onwaarschijnlijke liefde op tussen politieagente Lexie en ex-crimineel Adam.
Lexie Graham voedt in haar eentje een kind op en is elke seconde van de dag druk bezig. Zij heeft geen tijd voor de liefde. Adam Stone probeert als ex-crimineel een eerlijk bestaan op te bouwen. Wie had gedacht dat uitgerekend deze twee mensen als een blok voor elkaar zouden vallen? En toch gebeurt het, want in Hope Harbor komen uitersten bij elkaar en is alles mogelijk.
Irene Hannon, who writes both contemporary romance and romantic suspense, is the author of more than 65 novels. Her books have been honored with three coveted RITA awards from Romance Writers of America (the “Oscar” of romance fiction) and she is a member of that organization's elite Hall of Fame. She has also received a Career Achievement award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work. Other awards for individual books include National Readers' Choice, HOLT Medallion, Daphne du Maurier, Retailers Choice, Booksellers' Best, and Reviewers' Choice from RT Book Reviews. She is also a two-time Christy award finalist.
Millions of her books have been sold worldwide, and her novels have been translated into multiple languages.
A former corporate communications executive with a Fortune 500 company, Irene now writes full time. To learn more about Irene and her books, visit www.irenehannon.com.
I'm rereading the whole Hope Harbor series via audible editions and am loving Therese Plummer's narration so much! She breathes life into these characters and heart and humour into her interpretation of Hannon's exquisite words.
----
There is something exceptionally delightful about Irene Hannon's characters. There's so much depth and intrigue in each and every one whether they are the hero and heroine or any number of secondary characters -- including Clyde, the dog!
You can tell a lot about a hero by the way he treats a dog. And Clyde will tell you that Adam is a keeper. Some of my favourite scenes are between this life-battered pair. A man who has had a rough start in life and the abused dog he rescued. Both are wary of getting too close to people, finding comfort and safety in their solitude...until Lexie gets involved.
Love the unusual pairing -- an ex-con and a police chief. It's all kinds of complicated and they are their own worst enemies. Both are wounded by past tragedies and their love story doubles as a beautiful redemption story.
"You know...it's interesting how our paths often smooth out if we give God a chance to pave the way, isn't it?" (p 293) One of things I love most about Sandpiper Cove is the way the author has seamlessly woven an inspirational thread into the plot. Faith shines through the lives of some pretty memorable characters. Uplifting but never forced, bringing the warmth of hope to the most difficult situations.
A complex romance that sizzles right to the very last page. Stupendous addition to the Hope Harbor series...and, woohoo...Irene Hannon promises there are more books to come.
Hannon's latest Hope Harbor novel is a beautiful love story, yet it is also such a gorgeous picture of acceptance, learning to trust, and becoming a new creation. Readers will relate to some parts of each character in their longing for redemption and for others to look beyond the surface. Hannon incorporates spiritual truths in a believable way that will resonate. As police chief of Hope Harbor, Lexie Graham doesn't encounter a large number of criminals, but a serial vandal in town is beginning to frustrate everyone. Adam Stone is an ex-con living in Hope Harbor, making a new start in life with help from his friends and church. He has a steady job and a place and dog of his own. Then his home and dog are hit by the vandals and Adam and Lexie join forces to figure out who committed the crimes and how they can help the person. The more time the two spend together, the more they feel an attraction to each other, which might be frowned upon by those around them.
Throughout this series I have fallen more and more in love with Hope Harbor, its residents, and the love, joy, and peace that can be found within its town borders. Sandpiper Cove compounds that love in a book that is utterly charming - a story of second chances, helping hands, the support of a community, and, of course, romance.
Sandpiper Cove is the third book in the Hope Harbor series and tells the story of Lexie Graham, Hope Harbor's police chief, and Adam Stone. Readers will have first met Adam (or Stone, as he is more commonly known) in Sea Rose Lane. Ex-con, construction worker, stray-dog rescuer, he is a mix of bad boy and kind soul. Lexi has been married before and had her heart broken by her husband's sudden death. Now she is content to raise her young son, Matt, and protect the people of Hope Harbor. But when Adam is targeted by vandals, Lexi starts to get to know him, and a glimpse beneath his hardened exterior shows a man who is kind, gentle, and giving, and for whom it just may be worth risking her heart again.
Everything about this book exudes peace and contentment. And not because the characters don't face trials - they do, and plenty of them. But there is just something about these Hope Harbor novels, be it the setting, characters, underlying faith principles, or themes explored, that give the stories a firm grounding.
I was greatly looking forward to reading Sandpiper Cove ever since reading a sample in Irene Hannon's previously published novel. And I'm very happy to say that Sandpiper Cove lived up to all my expectations. Adam Stone is a fantastic character. He is plagued by guilt about his life choices, isolates himself, works hard, and wants to repay the kindness shown to him. He is intrigued by Lexi, but he is used to avoiding police officers, not becoming friends with them. But as he and Lexi work together to solve the vandalism case and help the perpetrator, he finds himself falling for her anyway. Lexi has been in love and knows the hurt it can bring. When she enlists Adam's help with her vandalism case, she doesn't except to find herself so attracted to the man. Add in some unresolved questioning about faith, a young man who responds to Adam's gentle guidance, a cute five-year-old, and a gorgeous dog, you have all the makings for a beautiful, Christian contemporary novel.
I was so content reading this book that the ending completely snuck up on me. Suddenly there was the epilogue! Luckily, it was a nice, long epilogue. But the true gift lay in the author's acknowledgments - there will be more Hope Harbor novels to come!!! And, that makes me a very happy reader.
The publishers provided an advanced readers copy of this book for reviewing purposes. All opinions are my own.
Find more reviews, reading age guides, content advisory, and recommendations on my blog Madison's Library. ---------
Is it premature to predict my love for this book after reading only a very short excerpt? I don't think so.
Sandpiper Cove is the third book in the Hope Harbor series and tells the story of Lexie Graham, Hope Harbor's police chief, and Adam Stone. Readers will have first met Adam (or Stone, as he is more commonly known) in Sea Rose Lane. Ex-con, construction worker, stray-dog rescuer, he is a mix of bad boy and kind soul. Where do I sign up!!!
3.5 stars rounded up Overall I really enjoyed the story; I recall Adam from the previous book and was a bit surprised to find him as the MC because he really had little page time there. He's got loads of baggage but he's working through it, which I liked reading...he's getting his feet on the ground before he meets the fair lady. I liked how the cover has a man and his dog, since dog Clyde plays a big role in the story.
Lexie was the character who really stole my heart, though. As a small-town police chief, she's got to work on town affairs as well as do patrol. That sounded like a tough enough job until I got to the part about her history as a foreign protection detail...which was super intense! Her son is too cute and a real plus to the story.
There were a few drawbacks that kept me from rating it higher. There's a lot of kissing/feeling/smelling (so 16+ on age range) and I could definitely have done without that much. There are a handful of euphemisms and terms like "Oh, Lord" which at best are used lightly enough to make me wonder if they're swearing or not (aka no prayer in the context). And the whole Charley and his birds thing leaned more weird in this book than in others.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for a free reading copy. A favorable review was not required.
A romance between a police chief and an ex-con?! Y'all, I really have no words to tell you how powerful this story is. I mean WOW! The premise its self was enough for me to curl up with this book and a blanket. Lexie has a painful past, having lost a spouse. She's a single mother who lives with her mom and polices the streets of Hope Harbor.
Lexie has so many hats to wear as a woman and she does it with grace. Yet, her heart was closed off to God and the love that was waiting for her. I loved her character, yet surprisingly not as much as Adam's.
Adam is an AWESOME hero! He's very much aware of his sins and his past. Unfortunately, he doesn't want to leave them there. I ached for poor Adam. I read this book and just wanted to give him a hug or tell him it gets better. Thankfully, Lexie figured out what he needed. ;)
Y'all, this book was all kinds of sweetness filled with the heartwarming grace of God and the sparks of good ol' love. Read it and enjoy Ms. Hannon's gift for weaving a believable romantic tale of love.
Oh, what a gem. I’m loving the Hope Harbor series by Irene Hannon, and Sandpiper Cove makes for a perfect addition. Neither police chief Lexie Graham nor ex-con Adam Stone is looking for a romantic relationship. Yet, in a town known for second chances, of course, anything just might be possible.
Sandpiper Cove is a sweet story and delivers a hearty spiritual message, as Adam truly comes to understand his worth in light of God’s love, grace, and forgiveness. Again, this is another Hope Harbor novel I’m glad to recommend inspirational contemporary readers.
Thanks to Revell Reads, I received a copy of Sandpiper Cove and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
"Any damaged board can be smoothed out and made new with work and patience."
Is Adam Stone a "damaged board"? Starting life over as an ex-convict, in a small town, is not an easy thing to do, but Adam Stone has managed to live a simple life as a responsible citizen, out of the limelight in his solitary cabin by the Oregon coastline. Until one day, the beautiful police chief shows up at his doorstep, tipped off by a local, about the recent vandalism on Stone's property and "a tiny ember of hope for a future that included more than a loyal, lovable dog for a companion began to glow in a long-dark corner of his heart".
Lexie Graham has hardly noticed Adam Stone since he arrived in Hope Harbor, and she would have remembered it if she had. Ruggedly handsome, coupled with a humble spirit, is a hard thing to forget. Acting on a hunch, Chief Graham commandeers Adam's help with one of the troubled youths proven to be a part of the local pranks, and in the process discovers a part of herself that has lain dormant since the death of her husband. "Was she ready to let go of the past and take a chance on a future that could be fraught with challenges - and change?"
This addition to Irene Hannon's "Hope Harbor" series is all about trusting God to open the door to second chances.
FTC Disclosure: I received a complimentary e-copy of this book from NetGalley. I ended up listening to the audio version. These are my honest thoughts.
This story had some high points that I rather enjoyed. The fact that an ex-convict was featured was a surprise. The guy had served his time and repented of his crime, and it was interesting to see the struggles he faced when he tried to make a way for himself in the world again, legally this time. Lexi’s little boy was cute! The interaction between the dog and him was fun to read. It was good to read of a decent, wholesome police officer. I need more stories about good law enforcement officers, please!
The negative outweighed the positive for me with this story. That saddened me, because I had really enjoyed the previous book in the series (Sea Rose Lane).
The sensuality in this book was quite heavy and gave me the willies. What irritated me the most about this aspect of the story was when a woman said to her four-year-old son, “… after you recover from your sugar orgy.” Say what? Why are we using that vulgar sexual term, especially when speaking to a preschool-aged child? Though he wasn’t curious at all about what the term meant (which I found completely unrealistic, because four-year-olds are forever curious and asking what things mean), using a term like that with such a young child would naturally invite way too many grown-up questions that would ruin the kid’s innocence before he had a chance to experience the highs and lows of childhood.
There were also a handful of expletives throughout.
Content: sensuality (heavy; includes two sexual terms), expletives, one odd “miraculous” animal moment (the birds again; see my review of Sea Rose Lane for details on that)
I didn't know what to expect when I started reading this beautiful novel. I think it was the cover that wanted to make me read it and bring contemporary Christian was a page turning awesome adventure! I snickered at the two priests lively banter glad they got along. I loved Charley too! He reminds of one of God's messengers that are always around and for some strange reasons they know before you even tell them. There's a song from Alabama about angels being all around us and up above. Friends are few and far between but when you find one hang on to him or her because those are the best kind. Books are sort of like that too!! It is funny that you can connect with some books and not others. Books can be friends or not. I believe in 2nd chances like Adam and Brian. I enjoyed this novel for this reason. Irene knows how to bring real life problems to fictional characters and solve their problems unlike in real life. Choices can be bad or good. it is up to us. But, they usually go better it'd go better if we ask for God's help. Satan wants us to disobey God. Not good! I loved the friendship between Lexie and Adam. To my idea, it's always best to be friends first. Like my husband and I were. To this day, we are still best friends. I think this wonderful novel is all about Trust. Trust is a very big issue in most cases. Like Adam. He needed to learn to trust people again and I feel him deeply. I too have a very hard time trusting people. Thank you God I have a trusting Jesus for He'll never fail me even when I'm at my lowest. I recommend this book to people who love contemporary Christian. I received a complimentary copy from from the publisher and in no way required to review this book
In a simple phrase – there is so much to love about Sandpiper Cove. Charley, who always knows more than he logically should and gives out well-timed advice with his tacos. Father Murphy and Reverend Baker and their goodnatured bantering. Floyd and Gladys, the husband and wife team of … seagulls. (Yes, you read that right) Clyde, the faithful canine companion who resembles his human in spirit if not looks. The vivid setting that has me wanting to book an immediate vacation on the Oregon coast.
And of course the focus of this novel – Adam and Lexie. Two wounded souls trying to find healing and peace. An unlikely pair, perhaps – an excon and the police chief – but only on the surface. In their hearts, they are well-matched. Both have tragic backstories and uncertain futures, and watching them fall in love is “blissful sigh” combined with “keep a fan handy”. Never sappy, but the right amount of sweet kept a smile on my face as I followed their story.
Bottom Line: Any day becomes a good day when I get to visit Hope Harbor through the pages of another Irene Hannon novel. Sandpiper Cove is no exception. Laughter, wisdom and grace abound in each book in the series. The characters – and the setting – are vibrant, and I can easily picture them in my mind as I read. The message of hope and faith is sincere and organically woven into the story’s framework in such a way as to be clear without being preachy or trite. Adam and Lexie’s romance sparks with electricity and some great kisses – and of the love stories in Hope Harbor theirs is so far my favorite!
(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)
First, the disclaimer. "I was provided a free copy of this book. All opinions are my own." That done, SANDPIPER COVE is the third book in Ms. Hannon's Hope Harbor series. It easily stands alone, but fans will want to read Hope Harbor and Sea Rose Lane so they meet more of the towns residents.
I loved the banter between the Catholic priest and the protestant minister. The two are obviously close friends who know what buttons to push. I also love the taco guy (I cannot remember his name but he is full of wisdom.) Some of the prior characters from earlier books make cameos in this book, but not in the major player way.
Adam Stone. He might be an ex-con but he is a dream. Kind, loving, considerate, good to animals, hard working... a model citizen in ways that even people who aren't ex-cons would be wise to emulate. He is a sweetheart. My heart broke for him and I loved how he faced his fears and reached out to another trouble teen.
Lexie started out a bit tough to get to know -- but as a police chief she has a reputation to uphold. Once she loosened up a bit she was just as sweet as Adam. I loved her mom, too.
I am so happy to know there will be a fourth Hope Harbor book and I cannot wait to read it. But first, there Irene Hannon is starting a new romantic suspense series. If you love romantic suspense don't miss her books, she is one of the best. This is not romantic suspense, but a straight romance and I absolutely loved it. If you love Christian romance, don't miss SANDPIPER COVE or the other books in this series. A must read.
Bij het zien van de schitterende cover van Ankerplaats van Irene Hannon krijg je een vakantiegevoel. Je wilt er heen om lekker uit te waaien en te genieten van de rust en de geluiden die daar horen te horen. De titel maakt nieuwsgierig. Ankerplaats van Irene Hannon is het derde deel in de Hope Harbor-roman serie, maar is los te lezen. Mocht je de eerste twee delen hebben gemist, dan heb je niet het gevoel dat je iets hebt gemist als je dit deel hebt gelezen. Je wilt dan in ieder geval ook de eerste twee delen lezen en de delen die nog komen wil je ook lezen. Meteen vanaf de eerste bladzijde wordt je meegezogen in een verhaal boordevol emoties. Het is aan te raden om een doos tissues bij de hand te houden, want er zitten genoeg emotionele momenten in waarbij je het niet droog kan houden zoals bijvoorbeeld het moment dat Adam vrienden werd met Clyde, je wordt ook boos om wat Clyde is aangedaan. Ondanks dat het einde voorspelbaar is, zitten er genoeg verrassende wendingen in die je niet ziet aankomen zoals bijvoorbeeld een valse beschuldiging. Ankerplaats van Irene Hannon vertelt het verhaal van Lexie Graham die als politiechef werkt en krijgt te maken met een golf van diefstal en vandalisme.
Another amazing read from Irene. I absolutely adore this series set in Hope Harbor Oregon. That have amazing characters, great storylines and a setting I would LOVE to visit. This was a great installment in the set with the premise of the Police Chief and a reformed Ex-con overcoming some pretty major obstacles. Love the threads of hope, redemption and trust in the book. Plus this book and it's predecessors make me want a fish taco!!! Read the books and you'll understand that statement. 😀
rene Hannon's Sandpiper Cove is an interesting story about second chances. Filled with a familiar setting and hurting characters, this novel made me pay attention. From the first chapter when I met Adam Stone, I felt empathy for his plight. As an ex-con, I bet it is pretty hard to return to normal society. But Lexis, the town sheriff, see's past all that and uses his knowledge of crime life to help a teenager before he becomes a criminal. I really enjoyed the pace of the novel. It moved pretty rapidly. There were no moments where I wanted to put the novel down. As for the romance, it flowed naturally. I liked seeing Lexie and Adam fall in love. Again, the setting of Hope Harbor is idealic and soothing. A nice break from the hustle of city life, not like I live in the city, but anyways. I enjoy Hannon's contemporary romances, and I'm glad to know there is more Hope Haven novels coming. Fans of Becky Wade, Melissa Tagg, and Denise Hunter would love these books.
I received a complimentary copy of Sandpiper Cove by Irene Hannon from Revell Publishing, and the opinions stated are all my own.
3.5 stars rounded up. Lexie and Adam. This is a good series. Law enforcement issues addressed. Lies starting a rumor in a small town .. how to deal with that ?
Terrific book. This was my first trip to Hope Harbor, but it won't be my last. Hope Harbor is a small town on the Oregon coast filled with people who care about each other (and perhaps a few bad apples). It's an excellent place for people who are looking for somewhere to start over. One of those people is Adam Stone, an ex-con who turned his life around while in prison. He has a job with a construction company, a hobby making furniture, and a companion in a stray dog he rescued. He lives in a cabin in the woods, has a few friends, and keeps mostly to himself.
Another person who changed her life is Lexie Graham. After several years working for diplomatic security and tragically losing her husband, Lexie and her son moved back to her hometown. They live with her mom, and Lexie became Hope Harbor's police chief. She and her small force are currently dealing with a rash of petty theft and vandalism, which adds to her already busy life.
I liked the first meeting between Lexie and Adam. The vandals hit Adam's house twice, but he hasn't bothered to report it. The damage wasn't too bad, and as an ex-con, he tends to avoid interacting with law enforcement. When Lexie hears about it, she visits Adam, hoping to find clues to the vandals' identities. Adam is wary but cooperative, and Lexie realizes that she may be guilty of judging him without knowing him. Neither expected the sparks they felt nor did they want them. When Lexie comes to Adam's aid after his dog, Clyde, is injured by one of the vandals, their connection deepens. It's no surprise that Lexie thinks of Adam when she needs help turning a young teen away from the wrong path.
I liked Adam a lot. From a lousy childhood to a youth filled with wrong choices, he had a lot to overcome. Thanks to the help he received, Adam became a kind, compassionate man with a big heart, always ready to help where he's needed. He also has some serious self-worth issues, thanks to his past and his record. Adam tends to believe that people look down on him because of it, so he keeps to himself. He's hesitant to get involved in Lexie's project, but if he can keep a kid from going through what he did, he has to try. I liked his connection with young Brian, and his ability to empathize with the boy went a long way toward helping him.
I liked Lexie, too. She's a terrific mother, has a great relationship with her mom, and loves her hometown. I liked her relationships with the various townspeople who like and respect her right back. I liked how Lexie thought outside the box when it came to helping Brian and that she also thought it would help Adam.
I enjoyed seeing the relationship develop between Lexie and Adam. Though the sparks are there, both intend to ignore them. Adam can't see anything happening between an ex-con and a police chief, and Lexie isn't interested in risking her heart again. They do agree that they can be friends and partners in helping Brian. But it isn't too long before those sparks begin to intensify, and each of them starts to wonder, "what if..." I loved the scene at their friends' wedding and seeing Lexie and Adam think about possibilities. I especially liked seeing them share their pasts and the support and understanding that followed. But just as the future starts to look bright for them, Adam's past creates problems. A disgruntled parent and troublesome teen threaten to cause problems for Lexie because of her relationship with Adam, and he steels himself to walk away. I loved how Lexie and the people of Hope Harbor showed Adam what he meant to them. The epilogue was terrific and contained an unexpected twist.
I loved the secondary characters. One of my favorites was Adam's dog, Clyde. Animals are wonderful judges of nature, and Clyde's devotion to Adam is a terrific indicator of what a good man Adam is. I loved how Clyde bonded with Lexie's son Matt. The two of them were sweet together. I liked the author's portrayal of Matt as a typical four-almost-five-year-old. He wasn't too good, and he wasn't a brat. As a character, Matt showed Adam that he could be a good father even though he had no role model in his own father. I ached for Brian, the reluctant vandal. He and his mother finally escaped his father's abuse, but Brian had to leave everything he knew behind in doing so. It left him vulnerable to being used, even though he knew he was doing wrong. Working with Adam gave Brian the chance to break free, and I loved the changes. So many others, such as the preacher and the priest, Luis, BJ, and Charley, had profound effects on Adam.
Having only read this author suspense novels, I already knew I was in for a treat with her contemporary one! I was especially intrigued because this is set on a fictional town on the Oregon coast where I live. What a treat to visit new places without even leaving my house! That being said, I jumped at the opportunity that was given me by the publisher to read Sandpiper Cove.
Have you ever felt too far gone for redemption and a second chance at life? Especially when the choices you’ve made in the past were deliberate? That’s how Adam Stone feels! Ex-con, who made all the wrong choices growing up, landed him in prison for a time. Hopeless & desperate until one man reached out and showed him a better way. Clinging to a God he didn’t know, Adam thus began to want to make a better life for himself. Even at the expense of living like a hermit on the outskirts of Hope Harbor. He’s a broken hero who knows he’s been given one last chance to make things right and good. He enamored me! His childhood was no picnic, thus making his thinking a bit skewed and his heart reluctant to get close to anyone. That is until Lexie walks into his life! Single mom and police chief, she finds an opportunity to help both him and a troubled youth to walk the right path. Having been burnt in love, the last thing she wants to do is get involved with anyone, especially an ex-con who she knows little about. Will these two broken people allow God and the town of Hope Harbor heal all wounds?
This author hard-hits tough areas in life! She doesn’t sugar-coat messy pasts or make everything perfect in one day. She shows how God can take a person’s heart and change them from the inside out! Not an easy or overnight process and the person must be willing to change. She doesn’t hide the pain someone goes through or how it has long-lasting effect on her characters. What she does show, is a hope-filled faith in God and the support of good people in our lives. Each one of these characters dug deep in my heart, making me feel as they were my own friends. I loved the vivid scenery, almost like being on the beach where I live. Adams dog Clyde took center stage, what a faithful companion who’s thrived on love & tender care! I loved everything about this book, especially the faith message and watching love grow between Adam & Lexie! The romance was just the right pace and I enjoyed seeing it blossom, perfect hero and heroine for each other. Even if they don’t think so at first! This was the only book in the Hope Harbor Novel series I’ve read, and you bet I will be going back to read the other two. Although this is a great stand-alone and the author gave glimpses of the previous books. If you’re looking for engaging characters who live real lives, a beach escape, faith-filled hope that comes from God & sweet romance, than I highly recommend this one!
*I was provided with a complimentary copy by Revell publishers. No favorable review was required and all opinions expressed here are strictly my own*
I was so impressed with this touching story! Lexie and Adam lived such different lifestyles, made very different choices, yet both faced horrible pain in their pasts. These were two people who, at first, would sound like opposites and unlikely to ever form a bond. However, I loved the way the author showed how God could take a person and truly make them a new creation.
This story was sweet and deeply moving. It delved into many complicated emotions for both Lexie and Adam regarding their past troubles. And I think the author did such a good job of creating a strong, yet complicated, character in Adam. It was hard to watch him second guess things and sometimes feel that he couldn’t possibly be worthy of anyone. It also was a beautiful love story that seemed to grow naturally throughout the novel.
Sandpiper Cove is the third book in the Hope Harbor series, yet can be enjoyed as a stand alone, too.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.
Sandpiper Cove is book three from the Hope Harbor series. It was so good to be brought back to Hope Harbor, Oregon again. Police chief and single mom, Lexie Graham, has a lot to deal with that does not include a love life. The town is having issues with vandalism and theft, taking more of Lexie's time. She then asks ex-con, Adam, for help. Even though he has a past, I just loved Adam and enjoyed his personality. I enjoyed how the two were able to grow throughout the story.
I would give Sandpiper Cove 4 stars.
I received this book from NetGalley.com, but was not required to write a review. This review is 100% my own honest opinion
"Come home to Hope Harbor - where hearts heal and love blooms" (back cover)
Irene Hannon takes us back to Hope Harbor with this third installment, Sandpiper Cove, and it was a great ride down memory lane, as well as towards a new journey. We encounter familiar characters that we love like Charley and the dynamic pair of seagulls, Floyd and Gladys. Then there's the familiar "we take care of our own" atmosphere in the fictional town of Hope Harbor.
“Sometimes you must give people an opportunity to put the faith they express on Sundays into practice.” (31)
When ex-con, Adam Stone arrived in Hope Harbor 18 months ago, he didn't think people will want to be friends with him due to his past. Who would want to associate with someone with a criminal past, let alone date him? He's in for a surprised and a humbling experience when the town show him what it means to not judge a book by its cover and accept one who's given his life towards the good of others. And I for one, are just as humbled by reading the different messages of change, forgiveness and humility that brings out the good in people. What may be unexpected or seem impossible is not when the heart is right. Adam and Lexi's encounter to budding romance was beautifully written - authentic, relatable and faithful.
“Any damaged board can be smoothed out and made new with work and patience.” (20)
I must also say the timing of this novel hit a personal note, especially with the relationship between Adam and his canine companion, Clyde. What sweet acknowledgement placed on the heartwarming connection of Adam and Clyde, as well as Clyde and Matt, Lexi's 5 year old boy. Adam's fatherly figure to Brian's storyline was also inspiring, opening possibilities for second chances and how many young kids really just need someone to care. From pasts to present, Hope Harbor series, including Sandpiper Cover will pull readers in to experience the peace and hope these stories create.
“Those who smile the least are often the ones who need smiles the most.” (146)
“In the end, it comes down to trust. We have to accept that God understands why things happen, even if we don't - and try to learn and grow from our misfortunes.” (121)
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book from the author/publisher. I was not required to write a positive review, and have not been compensated for this. This is my honest opinion.
Another wonderful journey to Hope Harbor! I think this may have been my favourite so far. In particular, this story takes on the challenge of an ex-felon who has tried to find new life in this small town on the Oregon coast. After meeting the Pastor of Grace Christian during his stint in prison, Adam Stone has found a purpose to life. With the addition of Jesus, and the promise of help from the Pastor, Adam has been working for BJs construction company. Volunteering behind the scenes to help others in the town, he has started to build the kind of reputation he never dreamed possible.
Lexie Graham is the Hope Harbor Police Chief. She's had a rough past of her own. With the tragic death of her husband 5 years ago she's found peace and contentment back in the hometown of her youth. Living with her Mom, while she raises her son Matt, she's quite happy to not upset the status quo. That is until her world collides with Adam's and she discovers just how much she misses her role as 'woman'. That is, once she realizes she is more than cop & mother.
There's trouble brewing in the town, will she be able to solve the case and protect her heart and reputation?
There is a line that stood out to me - "Those who smile the least are often the ones who need the smiles the most." How often do we notice those living on the fringes of our lives that may have needs we are unaware of. It doesn't take much to share a smile, and there is great power in a real genuine smile towards those who just may need it.
Thanks to Netgalley & Revell for the eARC. This is my honest review.
Do you ever feel like you’re unworthy of something? That you don’t deserve anything good in your life because of bad choices or mistakes you’ve made in the past?
Step into Adam Stone’s shoes. As an ex-convicted intent on starting over and living a good but solitary life, Adam is content with his little home on the edge of the Oregon seaside town of Hope Harbor. But when Police Chief Lexie Graham enters the picture, the loneliness he’s tried hard to bury is as obvious as the blue of the Pacific.
With the help of two young boys, a slew of townspeople, and a fish taco selling artist, will Adam discoer that God wants more for him? That he was made for community?
This is a story of God’s grace and forgiveness. A story of letting go of the past and clinging to those who support you. Sandpiper Cove is a beautiful reflection of God’s endless love for each and every one of His children.
I’m looking forward to visiting Hope Harbor again (and I’m looking forward to my trip to the Oregon Coast this summer even more). Pick up the newest installment in the lives of the residents of the town where “hearts heal and love blooms.” today.
Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books for review from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
Continuing in this series, I wasn't sure if Sandpiper Cove would resonate with me as much as the previous books did. But I'm glad I read it, because it still didn't disappoint at all! If anything, this one made me think about the way I view others I don't know well, and what I can do to help them. It was also a reminder for me to remember the strength of a church family, and what it can provide to a community - be it local or even global.
Sandpiper Cove deals specifically with ex-con Adam Stone whose previous past is something he's worked hard leave behind him. As a handy construction worker with a love for woodworking, he touches lives more than he even realizes. And when he makes the acquaintance with police chief Lexie Graham, he changes both of their lives in more ways than one. Lexie, who has more than her share of baggage too, loves her job and the town she protects. Who wouldn't? Hope Harbor just sounds so lovely to live in! When the pair work together to keep the town intact, they are able to do some amazing things - for everyone they know, and some new faces. I enjoyed seeing the previous books' characters come to life yet again, and I plan to get started on book 4 very soon! Wonderful read!
I stayed up till the wee hours of the morning to read this book, and only put it down reluctantly to catch some much-needed sleep about halfway through! It was that good. Sandpiper Cove confirms the reason why Irene Hannon is on my favourite authors list (as of now, still a very very short list of less than 10.) Parts of the novel reminded me of the style of LaVyrle Spencer, my all-time favourite author who has unfortunately retired from writing! Her main male character were also often someone who did not drive a Porsche and live in mansions. In fact, they were often not only downright poor but also shunned by various sectors of the “upright” community. I have not read the other books in the series but now that I have read this one, I have every intention of buying the others! Thanks to Netgalley and Revell for the chance to read the ARC, and I wrote this review only because I enjoyed it so much!
A great third book in the series. A lovely series to listen to while working as it is not a series that requires huge concentration. The characters are very well developed and the side stories along with the main characters make the books even more interesting. Again like the other books in the series i was glad that the romance developed over time. Adam and lexie were fantastic specially when helping Brian.
The third book in the Hope Harbor series brings the romance to a whole new level. Romance lovers will not want to miss this one.
Lexi Graham is the Hope Harbor police chief and is being pulled in too many directions at once. She has her son to take care of along with the residents of Hope Harbor, who have been dealing with a string of theft and vandalism. All of this is more than enough to keep her busy and leave zero time for anything else, romance included. With being so busy, she is caught completely off guard when she finds herself attracted to one of the victims of vandalism, Adam Stone. To make matters more complicated, Adam is an ex-con. He came to town after getting out of prison trying to make a new start. When Lexi catches one of the vandals, she talks to Adam about trying to be a mentor to the boy who is going through a tough time at home and could use his influence. Adam isn’t sure he is the right person to help the boy, but feels God leading him to try. Together Adam and Lexi work to make a difference in the lives of those they can reach and see if there is anything left to make work between the two of them.
This story is one of second chances. Lexi needs a second chance at love and Adam needs a second chance to prove he can be a good person. He doesn’t come to town looking for love and doesn’t think he deserves it either. I like the way he doesn’t want feel as if he isn’t good enough for Lexi, (even though deep down that is how he feels.) He has several people in town looking out for him who tell him that he doesn’t have to be the same person that spent time in prison. He did his time and now he needs to be willing to move on from that. I love the message of knowing it is ok to make mistakes as long as we learn from them and move on to do the work God has planned for us to do. Sometimes we tend to beat ourselves up over things that we need to let go of. If God can forgive us, then we should be able to forgive ourselves and move on too. Irene Hannon is one of the top Christian Romance writers and it is for good reason. She can weave good story with a message and characters we want to see happy. Sandpiper Cove has all of that and more. It is the third in the series, some of the characters are the same, Charley is back and you can’t help but love him, and some are new. You don’t have to read all to enjoy each separately, which is nice. I recommend this to readers that love a good, clean romance story that will put a smile on your face.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. The views and opinions expressed within are my own.
Reading Sandpiper Cove was like taking a wonderful trip back to Hope Harbor and seeing old friends. This is the third book in the series Hope Harbor series by Irene Hannon but if you haven’t read the first, it’s okay. You’ll still feel right at home.
Lexie, the police chief, and Adam, the ex-con, are dealing with different issues that they need to work through. The author does a great job of developing these characters in such a believable way so that you care about them and about this seaside village on the Oregon Coast. Someone is vandalizing and stealing from properties in the area, and Lexie engages to Adam to use his past experience to get involved. Will they be able to find the culprits?
There’s a spiritual aspect in this story that is very natural. The book is not preachy; the faith content is subtle and shows up more in how they live their lives than in the words that are said.
Another thing I really enjoyed: characters from earlier books are here…there’s Charley and his taco truck, Luis, BJ…and the friendly banter between the Catholic priest and the Protestant priest.
I enjoyed my trip back to Hope Harbor. According to Irene Hannon’s website, we can look forward to two more trips in the future. Count me in!
I received a free book from Revell Publishing (a division of Baker Publishing Group) in exchange for an unbiased review.
Sandpiper Cove is the latest in Irene Hannon’s Hope Harbor collection and I think this one is my favorite yet. Meeting up with some old friends like Charlie (the taco man who always knows what to say) and the rest of the town’s residents, we finally get to see police chief Lexie get her love story. What an interesting twist of events it is when she falls for former convict Adam Stone, who is trying to turn his life around. Starting off with a favor to help a troubled teen, Adam and Lexie do have an instant awareness of each other, but both know it is in their best interests to take things slow. Starting with friendship Lexie opens up about the tragic end to her marriage and Adam lets Lexie in on his troubled and painful past. Soul mates I think are the best words for this couple and I was thrilled to watch their romance take off.
However, Charlie gives Adam some forewarning as seeds of mistrust and lies are sown on Adam’s new found life. Don’t judge from the outside appearances was a recurring theme and one that many of us should take to heart. This was a lovely little romance and I am happy to have found out that there will be another in this series. This is a series for those who enjoy romance in small towns.
I received a copy of the book from the publisher. I was not required to post a positive review and the views and opinions expressed are my own.