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Hope Beach #1
Tidewater Inn
Welcome to Hope Beach. A place of intoxicating beauty . . . where trouble hits with the force of a hurricane.
Inheriting a beautiful old hotel on the Outer Banks could be a dream come true for Libby. The inn cries out for her restorer’s talent and love of history. She’s delighted to learn of the family she never knew she had. And the handsome Coast Guard lieutenant she’s met there on the island could definitely be the man of her dreams.
But Libby soon realizes that the only way she can afford the upkeep on the inn is to sell it to developers who are stalking the island. The father who willed her the inn has died before she could meet him, and her newfound brother and sister are convinced she’s there to steal their birthright. Worst of all, her best friend and business partner has been kidnapped before her eyes, and Libby’s under suspicion for the crime.
Libby’s dream come true is becoming a nightmare. Her only option is to find her friend and prove her innocence, or lose everything on the shores of Hope Island.
Inheriting a beautiful old hotel on the Outer Banks could be a dream come true for Libby. The inn cries out for her restorer’s talent and love of history. She’s delighted to learn of the family she never knew she had. And the handsome Coast Guard lieutenant she’s met there on the island could definitely be the man of her dreams.
But Libby soon realizes that the only way she can afford the upkeep on the inn is to sell it to developers who are stalking the island. The father who willed her the inn has died before she could meet him, and her newfound brother and sister are convinced she’s there to steal their birthright. Worst of all, her best friend and business partner has been kidnapped before her eyes, and Libby’s under suspicion for the crime.
Libby’s dream come true is becoming a nightmare. Her only option is to find her friend and prove her innocence, or lose everything on the shores of Hope Island.
Kindle Edition
First published July 17, 2012
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About the author
Colleen Coble
147 books6,313 followersUSAToday bestselling author Colleen Coble lives with her husband, Dave, in Arizona. She is the author of dozens of novels including the Rock Harbor Series, the Aloha Reef Series, the Mercy Falls Series, the Hope Beach Series, the Lonestar Series and two Women of Faith fiction selections, Alaska Twilight and Midnight Sea. She has more than 6 million books in print.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 754 reviews
June 19, 2013
This is the first book I have read by this author. I read it for a book club at my church. I wish I could say that I liked it, but this ended up being the typical stereotype of a Christian book (which makes me very sad to say). The storyline was very predictable and the character development was lacking. I found the writing flat and non-inspiring. There were several unrealistic scenes that made me wonder how anyone could buy into this story. For instance, there was a scene where the heroine of the story was swimming in the ocean and was attacked by an unknown diver who tried to drown her. After miraculously saving herself, with the help of a dog, she finds herself reflecting on the incidence on the beach. Her love interest happens along in the company of the town sheriff and she decides not to report the incident to either one of them. I'm sorry - but that would have to be the single most terrifying event of a life and to not mention it and furthermore, to not act like anything was wrong at all seemed absolutely impossible to me. That was just once instance. Relationships evolved quickly and yet seemed to have no depth or character to them. There were a couple of things that happened in the story that had no correlation or meaning to what was going on and just caused me to say "huh?" There did not seem to be any intellectual content in this book, in my opinion. This book is the first in a series but I have no intention of reading any subsequent books. The storyline had possibility - I liked that the heroine was a restorer of historical buildings and the first chapter set up the mystery storyline very quickly. I just think it could have been fleshed out much better and more realistically.
October 6, 2018
This was my first experience reading a suspense book by Coble. I enjoyed the book, and look forward to reading many more of her novels. I really enjoyed the beach setting a lot, and the faith message was strong. It really gets into the readers mind to consider the question, "What would Jesus Do."
As far as my experience with the writing, I must say I often rolled my eyes at the credibility of certain events. Now, hear me out. Lol. Some people really enjoy suspenseful novels, so this story may drive them a tad crazy, but for me, someone who is easily scared by dramatic incidences, I actually appreciated the incredulous scenarios and how everyone acted blasé, because it dropped the fear factor, in my opinion. It read more like a cozy, romance, mystery for me. The pacing was nice and steady, too. I would recommend this to readers who enjoy a strong faith message and are looking for a fun, atmospheric mystery.
As far as my experience with the writing, I must say I often rolled my eyes at the credibility of certain events. Now, hear me out. Lol. Some people really enjoy suspenseful novels, so this story may drive them a tad crazy, but for me, someone who is easily scared by dramatic incidences, I actually appreciated the incredulous scenarios and how everyone acted blasé, because it dropped the fear factor, in my opinion. It read more like a cozy, romance, mystery for me. The pacing was nice and steady, too. I would recommend this to readers who enjoy a strong faith message and are looking for a fun, atmospheric mystery.
May 2, 2019
While I enjoyed this suspense novel overall, there were aspects that I didn't find to be realistic. My favorite character was a secondary one: Zach.
May 22, 2020
This is a romantic suspense novel set on a remote coast. Half the plot focuses on the romance and the other half on the suspense elements.
Libby’s friend Tina calls to tell Libby that her father has left her an Inn and that she has a brother and sister that she never knew about.
Libby watches the online beach camera so that she can see her sister before travelling there to meet her. But while she is watching her friend Tina is kidnapped and Libby has to call the police.
The book follows Libby’s search to find her friend as well has her difficult first meeting with her brother and sister, who aren’t too pleased that she has inherited their father’s house.
I found this book warm and mostly upbeat. I would say it is a ‘soft’ mystery and suspense novel, and not very gritty or dark. The romance plot takes a central role and is clean and sweet.
There is quite a high Christian content and although it occasionally felt slightly cheesy, I appreciated the real dilemmas that the Christian characters were facing.
I didn’t guess the villain. I thought the plot was going to be predictable but there were some twists I didn’t see coming.
I really enjoyed the narrator and found her voice easy to listen to, though I listened on 1.25 speed, to quicken it up a bit.
I would like to continue reading this series and will definitely listen to the audiobook version.
Libby’s friend Tina calls to tell Libby that her father has left her an Inn and that she has a brother and sister that she never knew about.
Libby watches the online beach camera so that she can see her sister before travelling there to meet her. But while she is watching her friend Tina is kidnapped and Libby has to call the police.
The book follows Libby’s search to find her friend as well has her difficult first meeting with her brother and sister, who aren’t too pleased that she has inherited their father’s house.
I found this book warm and mostly upbeat. I would say it is a ‘soft’ mystery and suspense novel, and not very gritty or dark. The romance plot takes a central role and is clean and sweet.
There is quite a high Christian content and although it occasionally felt slightly cheesy, I appreciated the real dilemmas that the Christian characters were facing.
I didn’t guess the villain. I thought the plot was going to be predictable but there were some twists I didn’t see coming.
I really enjoyed the narrator and found her voice easy to listen to, though I listened on 1.25 speed, to quicken it up a bit.
I would like to continue reading this series and will definitely listen to the audiobook version.
September 16, 2016
*This is a re-read.*
Though it didn't quite make it to my favorites list, I still really enjoyed it. It's a good story & kept my attention. I give it 4 1/2 stars. The narrator left a little to be desired, though...
Though it didn't quite make it to my favorites list, I still really enjoyed it. It's a good story & kept my attention. I give it 4 1/2 stars. The narrator left a little to be desired, though...
August 24, 2012
I have to admit that this was a difficult read for me. I was only aware of Colleen Coble's historical romances, and this was the first time I ever have come in contact with a more contemporary romance from this author. I have to admit that the first portion of this book was rather slow for me. I actually did not think I would like it very much at all.
But as I got into the book more, the author drew me into the story. The mystery became quite intriguing, and I found myself not wanting to put the book down. I cared about the characters, and I wanted to know if everything worked out all right. I found myself often on the edge of my seat.
I began to see the things that I know in love in this author's works. I found romance, history, and a strong faith in God. God is real in this story, and you see His hand at every turn. Bad things happen, but somehow it all works together for good. It either brings people running back to God or else people turn their backs on Him. Everyone has to make the decision about what they must do with God.
I did enjoy the portions that the author inserted concerning the history of this sleepy island. Being a lover of historical fiction, I am so glad to have found this in a contemporary romance. I don't know if I would have enjoyed it as much without this!
This is truly a well-crafted story. Do not let the slow story keep you from pressing on. In the end, all will make sense. You will appreciate every detail the author gives you. And it is, of course, a bonus that there is no profanity or sex scenes! Justice is served, and all is explained in the end. And I bet you won't figure everything out!
If you have a day or two to set aside for a riveting read that will keep you guessing at every turn, this is definitely the book for you. You won't regret picking up this book!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
But as I got into the book more, the author drew me into the story. The mystery became quite intriguing, and I found myself not wanting to put the book down. I cared about the characters, and I wanted to know if everything worked out all right. I found myself often on the edge of my seat.
I began to see the things that I know in love in this author's works. I found romance, history, and a strong faith in God. God is real in this story, and you see His hand at every turn. Bad things happen, but somehow it all works together for good. It either brings people running back to God or else people turn their backs on Him. Everyone has to make the decision about what they must do with God.
I did enjoy the portions that the author inserted concerning the history of this sleepy island. Being a lover of historical fiction, I am so glad to have found this in a contemporary romance. I don't know if I would have enjoyed it as much without this!
This is truly a well-crafted story. Do not let the slow story keep you from pressing on. In the end, all will make sense. You will appreciate every detail the author gives you. And it is, of course, a bonus that there is no profanity or sex scenes! Justice is served, and all is explained in the end. And I bet you won't figure everything out!
If you have a day or two to set aside for a riveting read that will keep you guessing at every turn, this is definitely the book for you. You won't regret picking up this book!
I was sent a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review. I was not financially compensated, and all opinions are 100 percent mine.
April 8, 2023
Amazing 😍😍😍😍 I checked out the next book in the series and cannot wait to start it. So refreshing,well done suspense and the romance was just enough to make you sig in happiness. Definitely recommend!
October 25, 2021
Did anyone edit this at all? There were many discrepancies in content. An office setting where the secretary complains about the power being out again, then they go into the inner office to their appointment and the character therein is working on his website.
The book comments several times on the lack of cell reception, but when a phone call is needed there’s no mention made of poor reception.
Drowning scene: a character goes out for a swim spontaneously, and then there’s a diver ready and waiting in the water to try to drown her….?!
Characters and conversations were unconvincing.
Extraneous characters: a family comes into town and it seems the only need for them in the book is that they have a rescue dog who bites the arm of an attacker, thus identifying him. Otherwise their presence seems intrusive. Furthermore, the family has 3 small children but don’t seem to be alarmed in the least when they are immediately informed upon arrival that there has been a kidnapping on the island.
The plot line is that a friend is missing…but there’s a severe lack of hysteria throughout the book and a lot of going about business as usual from the protagonist, including a romantic interest. The romance and the suspense do NOT mesh well in this book.
The kidnapped character seems to have no lingering trauma or PTSD-type symptoms after being abducted, drugged, abandoned on an island for 10 days, surviving a hurricane while clinging to the roof of a shack, and attempting escape. All in a bikini.
The conversations were choppy and not convincing. One sentence they’re talking about an abducted friend, and the next about child-rearing.
Kidnappers are referred to as “the killers” without further comment or protest.
Disappointed to say the least!
The book comments several times on the lack of cell reception, but when a phone call is needed there’s no mention made of poor reception.
Drowning scene: a character goes out for a swim spontaneously, and then there’s a diver ready and waiting in the water to try to drown her….?!
Characters and conversations were unconvincing.
Extraneous characters: a family comes into town and it seems the only need for them in the book is that they have a rescue dog who bites the arm of an attacker, thus identifying him. Otherwise their presence seems intrusive. Furthermore, the family has 3 small children but don’t seem to be alarmed in the least when they are immediately informed upon arrival that there has been a kidnapping on the island.
The plot line is that a friend is missing…but there’s a severe lack of hysteria throughout the book and a lot of going about business as usual from the protagonist, including a romantic interest. The romance and the suspense do NOT mesh well in this book.
The kidnapped character seems to have no lingering trauma or PTSD-type symptoms after being abducted, drugged, abandoned on an island for 10 days, surviving a hurricane while clinging to the roof of a shack, and attempting escape. All in a bikini.
The conversations were choppy and not convincing. One sentence they’re talking about an abducted friend, and the next about child-rearing.
Kidnappers are referred to as “the killers” without further comment or protest.
Disappointed to say the least!
August 23, 2017
I let a few years pass after reading the Rock Harbor and Aloha Reef series from Colleen Coble, and don't know why because her suspense stories is filled with mystery, plot twisters and characters with depth.
This was another wonderful romantic suspense from Colleen and recommended to fans of this genre.
The way Libby dealt with finding out her dad only passed recently, she has a half brother and sister and about her inheritance, reflected her reliance on God and finding strength in him, especially showing grace to her siblings even though their attitude towards her were harsh and they were acting like spoiled brats.
Alec was a strong dependable male character who quickly won my heart. I enjoyed seeing how he interacted with the people from Hope Beach, his nephew and Libby.
I loved that Bree and Samson from the Rock Harbor series made an important appearance in this story.
I loved the themes of showing graces and forgiveness towards others.
I was also kept in the dark about what was going on and who kidnapped Nicole. My suspicions were wrong and I loved being wrong in a suspense book even more than being right.
The only thing which was a bit annoying was the constant thinking of Libby about wanting to keep the Inn but not having the financial means to do and the offer of sale to be so much money. But this did not take away from my overall enjoyment of this story.
This was another wonderful romantic suspense from Colleen and recommended to fans of this genre.
The way Libby dealt with finding out her dad only passed recently, she has a half brother and sister and about her inheritance, reflected her reliance on God and finding strength in him, especially showing grace to her siblings even though their attitude towards her were harsh and they were acting like spoiled brats.
Alec was a strong dependable male character who quickly won my heart. I enjoyed seeing how he interacted with the people from Hope Beach, his nephew and Libby.
I loved that Bree and Samson from the Rock Harbor series made an important appearance in this story.
I loved the themes of showing graces and forgiveness towards others.
I was also kept in the dark about what was going on and who kidnapped Nicole. My suspicions were wrong and I loved being wrong in a suspense book even more than being right.
The only thing which was a bit annoying was the constant thinking of Libby about wanting to keep the Inn but not having the financial means to do and the offer of sale to be so much money. But this did not take away from my overall enjoyment of this story.
May 20, 2021
First time reading a book by this author. It is a Christian romance suspense. Throughly enjoyed this book. Loved the fact it was set on the outer banks of North Carolina since I live in NC.
July 7, 2018
Tidewater Inn by Colleen Coble is a fabulous contemporary Christian suspense and the first book in The Hope Beach series. I loved it and read it in just one sitting.
The novel has the theme of restoration. Restoration of old buildings mirrors the restoration in our lives. We all need to pull together and share our knowledge (of the love of God) to see lives changed and restored.
Money equals power for some. Greed rules over people's lives. Unscrupulous characters will stop at nothing to rise upwards. Greed and treasure clouds their vision. Characters with correct priorities realise that money cannot solve problems. People matter. Money can buy comfort and is a short term high. Transformation by love lasts forever.
Faith in God is important. "God... was in charge here. [She] had to try to cling to that fact." God never promised us a trouble free life. What He did promise was to never leave us. He walks alongside us every step of the way. At times life makes no sense but it makes even less sense without God. We can trust God at all times to see us through.
We need to pray about everything and be anxious for nothing. God is in control, even when life looks otherwise.
There are fractured families. God longs to repair and restore the years the locusts have taken. "There's nothing you can do to change what is... All you can do is go forward from here." Let God have the driving seat of your life and look to the future not wallow in the past.
A search and rescue dog features. His work is impressive and invaluable to lives in trouble. This is like God who searches for us and when He finds us, He rescues us and brings us home.
A cracking suspense that had me glued and guessing and rooting for a positive outcome.
The novel has the theme of restoration. Restoration of old buildings mirrors the restoration in our lives. We all need to pull together and share our knowledge (of the love of God) to see lives changed and restored.
Money equals power for some. Greed rules over people's lives. Unscrupulous characters will stop at nothing to rise upwards. Greed and treasure clouds their vision. Characters with correct priorities realise that money cannot solve problems. People matter. Money can buy comfort and is a short term high. Transformation by love lasts forever.
Faith in God is important. "God... was in charge here. [She] had to try to cling to that fact." God never promised us a trouble free life. What He did promise was to never leave us. He walks alongside us every step of the way. At times life makes no sense but it makes even less sense without God. We can trust God at all times to see us through.
We need to pray about everything and be anxious for nothing. God is in control, even when life looks otherwise.
There are fractured families. God longs to repair and restore the years the locusts have taken. "There's nothing you can do to change what is... All you can do is go forward from here." Let God have the driving seat of your life and look to the future not wallow in the past.
A search and rescue dog features. His work is impressive and invaluable to lives in trouble. This is like God who searches for us and when He finds us, He rescues us and brings us home.
A cracking suspense that had me glued and guessing and rooting for a positive outcome.
April 14, 2013
This was just terrible. I'm sad I spent .99 on it. Yet another example of a decent plot done poorly. Though the characters changed throughout the novel their motivations seemed superficial and the "crisis of faith" issues seemed shoehorned into the novel.
I'm not sure how to put my finger on everything that was an issue for me in this book. The premise was good. A historical restoration expert is left an dilapidated inn on one of the outer banks islands by her long lost father which she thought was dead. A coast guard hottie helps her unravel the mystery. Interesting premise right? Along the way we meet her long lost siblings and aunt and uncover other mysteries. Again, all of this could have been good. But I was left feeling like the characters were flat and that faith and goodness was the deus ex machine of solving the mystery and creating relationships. Maybe it was because of the way the motivations were described that they just seemed to work out too easily (and this is for a romance novel, yes I understand that they should be judged by different standards).
I've already spent too much time on this review than the novel was worth. In other words, don't waste your time. Also, I wish amazon would label "Christian" themed novels. I got over that phase in high school.
I'm not sure how to put my finger on everything that was an issue for me in this book. The premise was good. A historical restoration expert is left an dilapidated inn on one of the outer banks islands by her long lost father which she thought was dead. A coast guard hottie helps her unravel the mystery. Interesting premise right? Along the way we meet her long lost siblings and aunt and uncover other mysteries. Again, all of this could have been good. But I was left feeling like the characters were flat and that faith and goodness was the deus ex machine of solving the mystery and creating relationships. Maybe it was because of the way the motivations were described that they just seemed to work out too easily (and this is for a romance novel, yes I understand that they should be judged by different standards).
I've already spent too much time on this review than the novel was worth. In other words, don't waste your time. Also, I wish amazon would label "Christian" themed novels. I got over that phase in high school.
Read
May 26, 2020I picked this one up at a book conference in Texas. Very sweet romance with a strong emphasis on family and friendship. Also an intriguing mystery. I love fixer-upper shows so I liked the idea that the two ladies were doing that for a job.
July 15, 2020
A historian and restorer, Libby inherits a beautiful old hotel on the Outer Banks. She also inherits a family she never knew. A new friend, a handsome Coast Guard Lieutenant, is beginning to be more than just her friend.
There are developers that want this property. They are stopping at nothing to acquire it. Kidnapping and attempted murder.
Libby's family is jealous of her inheritance and want no part of her. She has to prove them wrong.
There are developers that want this property. They are stopping at nothing to acquire it. Kidnapping and attempted murder.
Libby's family is jealous of her inheritance and want no part of her. She has to prove them wrong.
July 16, 2022
I wasn't impressed by this one. There were a lot of kind of confusing moments and I couldn't follow how the story wraps up. I was extremely frustrated by a moment in the story. A character is nearly drowned and she just hangs out on the beach afterward, petting a dog. Then a cop and a coast guard come to talk to her and she doesn't even mention the incident until wayyyy later in the day. Yeah, lady, you would have been more freaked out by almost dying. Also I'm pretty sure your lungs would be hurting from a lack of oxygen. I don't know, no one's ever tried to drown me, but I'm pretty sure I'd be FREAKED out.
The villain isn't really very convincing. His motives seemed silly.
And I got really confused about who actually kidnapped Nicole. I had a lot going on with kiddos running around while the plotline was being wrapped up, but I was left just kind of scratching my head. And I kind of missed who killed Tina and honestly I wasn't engaged in the story enough to even care to rewind the audio book and find out. And what happened to all the historical artifacts that were in the cave?
Like everyone is dead in this book. Libby's dad. Libby's mom. Zach's mom and dad. Vanessa and Brent's mom. It just kept going!
I was annoyed at how many people were upset about Libby potentially selling Tidewater inn. Guys- she didnt have the money to fix it up. Would you rather her try to keep it, go bankrupt, and the bank have to take it and do what they would with it??
Zach ignoring Nicole and her story for like two days was so frustrating.
None of the characters had enough depth for me. I just didn't love any of them. Nicole especially just kind of fell flat.
I'm going to keep reading the series. Maybe they get better?
The villain isn't really very convincing. His motives seemed silly.
And I got really confused about who actually kidnapped Nicole. I had a lot going on with kiddos running around while the plotline was being wrapped up, but I was left just kind of scratching my head. And I kind of missed who killed Tina and honestly I wasn't engaged in the story enough to even care to rewind the audio book and find out. And what happened to all the historical artifacts that were in the cave?
Like everyone is dead in this book. Libby's dad. Libby's mom. Zach's mom and dad. Vanessa and Brent's mom. It just kept going!
I was annoyed at how many people were upset about Libby potentially selling Tidewater inn. Guys- she didnt have the money to fix it up. Would you rather her try to keep it, go bankrupt, and the bank have to take it and do what they would with it??
Zach ignoring Nicole and her story for like two days was so frustrating.
None of the characters had enough depth for me. I just didn't love any of them. Nicole especially just kind of fell flat.
I'm going to keep reading the series. Maybe they get better?
November 2, 2012
Growing up, Libby believed her father had died when she was five. A restorer of historical buildings, Libby and her best friend Nicole go to check out the inn her father, who died recently, left her much to the surprise of her new found brother and sister. While there, Nicole is kidnapped while Libby watches online helpless. Libby becomes the prime suspect in her friend's disappearance.
Colleen Coble is a master of writing romantic suspense novels that focus on character development . While this book was good, it's not memorable. I liked the characters, but they don't stand out. My favorite character was Alec, Libby's love interest who has taken in his nephew. He is strong and resilient, two traits every book's hero should have.
While the premise of the book holds promise, much of the plot was the same thing over and over. Looking for Nicole. Arguing with her brother and sister. I think the plot would have benefited from one or two more things happening because the plot is interesting and has some twists and turns that caught me by surprised. I just was kinda bored between twists.
Although it's definitely not Coble's best, it's a nice rainy day read. Fans of Christian suspense will enjoy this book.
I received this book in exchange for my review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
Colleen Coble is a master of writing romantic suspense novels that focus on character development . While this book was good, it's not memorable. I liked the characters, but they don't stand out. My favorite character was Alec, Libby's love interest who has taken in his nephew. He is strong and resilient, two traits every book's hero should have.
While the premise of the book holds promise, much of the plot was the same thing over and over. Looking for Nicole. Arguing with her brother and sister. I think the plot would have benefited from one or two more things happening because the plot is interesting and has some twists and turns that caught me by surprised. I just was kinda bored between twists.
Although it's definitely not Coble's best, it's a nice rainy day read. Fans of Christian suspense will enjoy this book.
I received this book in exchange for my review. My thoughts and opinions are my own.
June 25, 2015
I love beach settings. I love mystery and suspense. I love stories of best friends. I love reading about people running an Inn or Bed and Breakfast. And this story has it all! The characters were fun and interesting to read about and I always love stories that involve, for example, her seeing through a video chat, her best friend being kidnapped. It tells me I'm in for a fun read! I recommend any of Colleen Coble's books, as she is a favorite author of mine, and she never fails to produce a good, entertaining story!
May 10, 2022
I love Colleen Coble books because she is clean and spiritual!! She believes in prayer and God’s power to help you as you face trails all while keeping the mystery going throughout the book!!
August 8, 2012
About the book: Welcome to Hope Beach. A place of intoxicating beauty . . . where trouble hits with the force of a hurricane.
Inheriting a beautiful old hotel on the Outer Banks could be a dream come true for Libby. The inn cries out for her restorer’s talent and love of history. She’s delighted to learn of the family she never knew she had. And the handsome Coast Guard lieutenant she’s met there on the island could definitely be the man of her dreams.
But Libby soon realizes that the only way she can afford the upkeep on the inn is to sell it to developers who are stalking the island. The father who willed her the inn has died before she could meet him, and her newfound brother and sister are convinced she’s there to steal their birthright. Worst of all, her best friend and business partner has been kidnapped before her eyes, and Libby’s under suspicion for the crime.
Libby’s dream come true is becoming a nightmare. Her only option is to find her friend and prove her innocence, or lose everything on the shores of Hope Island.
My thoughts:
Although Colleen Coble is an established writer with an assortment of books to her credit, Tidewater Inn is the first book by her that I recall reading. Friends, I don't think it will be the last one, though. When given the opportunity to review Tidewater Inn, I thought, "Now this should be interesting to see how she treats my beloved North Carolina shore line and its people." You see, I'm a North Carolina native and was raised in Wilmington which is the southernmost tip of the state whereas the Outer Banks is the upper shoreline of our ragged coastline. So I wasn't reading it as one who has never seen the ocean roil or the wind guest. Nor seen the gulls at play along the sand dunes and foaming waters of the Atlantic. No, I'd played in that surf and swam in the calm inland waters as well as the mighty ocean swells. So what did I find that Ms. Coble had to say and how she positioned her characters?
I had trouble "finding" Hope Island, but we do give writers a bit of license with some details. I could "see" the island because there is much off the coast of North Carolina in the way of broken shore lines and bits and pieces of land. Her description of the ocean and the troubles of a category 1 hurricane hitting at high tide are "right on."
But the story is not just about the shores of North Carolina, it is a story of people. Of danger. Of greed. Of kindness and of anger. Of discovery and of secrets. Of faith and reconciliation. It is a gentle love story. It is a story of triumph over evil and deception.
Our main characters are Libby and Alex. Libby is a historical architect looking at property on Hope Island with her business partner Nicole. Alex is a Hope island resident fisherman and Coast Guard officer.
The story opens with Libby preparing for her trip to Hope Island when her world is shattered as her business partner and friend, Nicole is kidnapped in view of a cam camera and Libby just happens to see it via her computer. From that point on, the story runs. So hold your breath, sit tight, and get ready for a twisting, turning, tantalizing story that will keep you guessing who, what, and when until the very end.
About the author: Best-selling author Colleen Coble's novels have won or finaled in awards ranging from the Best Books of Indiana, ACFW Book of the Year, RWA’s RITA, the Holt Medallion, the Daphne du Maurier, National Readers' Choice, and the Booksellers Best. She has nearly 2 million books in print and writes romantic mysteries because she loves to see justice prevail. Colleen is CEO of American Christian Fiction Writers and is a member of Romance Writers of America. She lives with her husband Dave in Indiana.
Visit her website at http://www.colleencoble.com. Twitter @colleencoble.
DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy of Tidewater Inn by Litfuse Publicity Group on behalf of Thomas Nelson Publishers and the author, Colleen Coble in exchange for a review expressing my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own and no requirement for a positive review was required.
Inheriting a beautiful old hotel on the Outer Banks could be a dream come true for Libby. The inn cries out for her restorer’s talent and love of history. She’s delighted to learn of the family she never knew she had. And the handsome Coast Guard lieutenant she’s met there on the island could definitely be the man of her dreams.
But Libby soon realizes that the only way she can afford the upkeep on the inn is to sell it to developers who are stalking the island. The father who willed her the inn has died before she could meet him, and her newfound brother and sister are convinced she’s there to steal their birthright. Worst of all, her best friend and business partner has been kidnapped before her eyes, and Libby’s under suspicion for the crime.
Libby’s dream come true is becoming a nightmare. Her only option is to find her friend and prove her innocence, or lose everything on the shores of Hope Island.
My thoughts:
Although Colleen Coble is an established writer with an assortment of books to her credit, Tidewater Inn is the first book by her that I recall reading. Friends, I don't think it will be the last one, though. When given the opportunity to review Tidewater Inn, I thought, "Now this should be interesting to see how she treats my beloved North Carolina shore line and its people." You see, I'm a North Carolina native and was raised in Wilmington which is the southernmost tip of the state whereas the Outer Banks is the upper shoreline of our ragged coastline. So I wasn't reading it as one who has never seen the ocean roil or the wind guest. Nor seen the gulls at play along the sand dunes and foaming waters of the Atlantic. No, I'd played in that surf and swam in the calm inland waters as well as the mighty ocean swells. So what did I find that Ms. Coble had to say and how she positioned her characters?
I had trouble "finding" Hope Island, but we do give writers a bit of license with some details. I could "see" the island because there is much off the coast of North Carolina in the way of broken shore lines and bits and pieces of land. Her description of the ocean and the troubles of a category 1 hurricane hitting at high tide are "right on."
But the story is not just about the shores of North Carolina, it is a story of people. Of danger. Of greed. Of kindness and of anger. Of discovery and of secrets. Of faith and reconciliation. It is a gentle love story. It is a story of triumph over evil and deception.
Our main characters are Libby and Alex. Libby is a historical architect looking at property on Hope Island with her business partner Nicole. Alex is a Hope island resident fisherman and Coast Guard officer.
The story opens with Libby preparing for her trip to Hope Island when her world is shattered as her business partner and friend, Nicole is kidnapped in view of a cam camera and Libby just happens to see it via her computer. From that point on, the story runs. So hold your breath, sit tight, and get ready for a twisting, turning, tantalizing story that will keep you guessing who, what, and when until the very end.
About the author: Best-selling author Colleen Coble's novels have won or finaled in awards ranging from the Best Books of Indiana, ACFW Book of the Year, RWA’s RITA, the Holt Medallion, the Daphne du Maurier, National Readers' Choice, and the Booksellers Best. She has nearly 2 million books in print and writes romantic mysteries because she loves to see justice prevail. Colleen is CEO of American Christian Fiction Writers and is a member of Romance Writers of America. She lives with her husband Dave in Indiana.
Visit her website at http://www.colleencoble.com. Twitter @colleencoble.
DISCLOSURE: I was provided a complimentary copy of Tidewater Inn by Litfuse Publicity Group on behalf of Thomas Nelson Publishers and the author, Colleen Coble in exchange for a review expressing my honest opinion. All opinions expressed are my own and no requirement for a positive review was required.
January 30, 2013
I've read about 15 of Colleen's novels and really enjoyed them, especially the Rock Harbor series and the Aloha Reef series. However, a couple of the more recent storylines haven't grabbed me as much. It's not that they're not well written, but the characters and settings weren't to my taste. When I was just a few chapters into Tidewater Inn, I felt like I'd "come home" because it had the feel of some of those earlier novels. Suspenseful opening, appealing characters, great settings, a blossoming romance that you care about. The exploration of faith issues was also interesting as Libby had to keep asking herself "what would Jesus do" in the midst of trying circumstances. I had to laugh when Bree and Samson from Rock Harbor suddenly popped up in the middle of the book and helped solve the crime. No wonder it felt like those earlier novels!
There were a couple of places where I felt credibility was stretched. For example, the sheriff continued to act in an immature manner (to my way of thinking) long after he should have accepted Libby's story and I couldn't believe Zac would still fail to act immediately after learning the identity of the woman on the island. A couple of the perpetrators were known early on in the book as we were privy to their discussions. However, the revelation of the person who had made the attempts on Libby's life came as a bit of a surprise. I felt there needed to be a couple more clues along the way. That let the ending down a little for me.
Having said that though, it was an enjoyable read overall. As this is the first in a new series, I'm already wondering which character will be the focus of Book 2 and I intend to stay tuned. If you haven't read one of Colleen's books before, this is a good taster, though still not quite as good as the Rock Harbor and Aloha Reef books.
There were a couple of places where I felt credibility was stretched. For example, the sheriff continued to act in an immature manner (to my way of thinking) long after he should have accepted Libby's story and I couldn't believe Zac would still fail to act immediately after learning the identity of the woman on the island. A couple of the perpetrators were known early on in the book as we were privy to their discussions. However, the revelation of the person who had made the attempts on Libby's life came as a bit of a surprise. I felt there needed to be a couple more clues along the way. That let the ending down a little for me.
Having said that though, it was an enjoyable read overall. As this is the first in a new series, I'm already wondering which character will be the focus of Book 2 and I intend to stay tuned. If you haven't read one of Colleen's books before, this is a good taster, though still not quite as good as the Rock Harbor and Aloha Reef books.
October 24, 2019
Tidewater Inn is book one in the new series Hope Beach by Colleen Coble. Libby Holladay is looking at a house to resort for a client when her friend Nicole rang her talking about her father. However, during the conversation, Nicole was kidnapped, and Libby Holladay became the prime suspect with the local law enforcement. Libby Holladay feeling that she is on her own decided to investigate on her own. The readers of Tidewater Inn will continue to follow Libby Holladay to find out what happens.
I have read other books by Colleen Coble, and I enjoy them all. Tidewater Inn continues my love affair with her books. I like the way Colleen Coble incorporated her twists and turns, ensuring that I never put her books down until the end. I do not mine that Colleen Coble includes her Christian beliefs in her stories. I love the way; Colleen Coble portrays her characters and intertwines then with each other throughout this book. Tidewater Inn is well written and researched by Colleen Coble. The description of the setting of this book excellently done by Colleen Coble that allowed me to picture myself visiting the area.
The readers of Tidewater Inn will learn about the importance of the Coast Guard in small seaside communities. Also, the readers of Tidewater Inn will learn about the National Register of Historic Places.
I recommend this book.
I have read other books by Colleen Coble, and I enjoy them all. Tidewater Inn continues my love affair with her books. I like the way Colleen Coble incorporated her twists and turns, ensuring that I never put her books down until the end. I do not mine that Colleen Coble includes her Christian beliefs in her stories. I love the way; Colleen Coble portrays her characters and intertwines then with each other throughout this book. Tidewater Inn is well written and researched by Colleen Coble. The description of the setting of this book excellently done by Colleen Coble that allowed me to picture myself visiting the area.
The readers of Tidewater Inn will learn about the importance of the Coast Guard in small seaside communities. Also, the readers of Tidewater Inn will learn about the National Register of Historic Places.
I recommend this book.
May 24, 2025
There are authors whose names are synonymous with class, and Colleen Coble is one of them. I don't read everything she writes, as some of her books don't lean as much towards suspense, but the ones I do read, I thoroughly enjoy. And this book was one I did thoroughly enjoy.
It is set in the Outer Banks, which was an added plus for me, as I love to vacation there, but it was just a top notch story all the way through. Coble has a great writing style, and I like the way she writes suspense.
I started to read the book with the intention of reading some of it and finishing it another day, but the book was so good that I just kept reading until the end. There was a lot of romance in the book, but if it is done right, I can handle that, and it was. I loved the plot, the setting, characters, ending, and everything about it.
In addition to the suspense and romance, the book also dealt with family members forgiving each other and learning to act toward them as Jesus would.
This is the first in a series, and I am definitely liking the start of this series. I'd highly recommend this one.
It is set in the Outer Banks, which was an added plus for me, as I love to vacation there, but it was just a top notch story all the way through. Coble has a great writing style, and I like the way she writes suspense.
I started to read the book with the intention of reading some of it and finishing it another day, but the book was so good that I just kept reading until the end. There was a lot of romance in the book, but if it is done right, I can handle that, and it was. I loved the plot, the setting, characters, ending, and everything about it.
In addition to the suspense and romance, the book also dealt with family members forgiving each other and learning to act toward them as Jesus would.
This is the first in a series, and I am definitely liking the start of this series. I'd highly recommend this one.
May 6, 2019
Nicole and Libby are partners in rescuing and restoring ruins. On an assignment, Nicole informs Libby by phone that she met a woman who looked remarkably like Libby, and that she made other fascinating discoveries. Libby has a brother and sister, half siblings from her father’s second marriage, and Libby has inherited an inn. Nicole has arranged a meeting with the sister under a security camera, so Libby can tune in and see her sister. But things go horribly wrong, and instead of seeing her sister, Libby watches as Nicole is abducted by two men and hauled into a boat. Author Colleen Coble has written a suspenseful thriller, infused with Christian morals and sprinkled with romance. With strong and well-developed characters and an intricate and intriguing plot, readers will devour each page of this debut novel of a promising new series.
February 25, 2013
I would give this book 2 and a half stars if I could. The story was quite creative, mysterious disappearances, secret families, a nice hard working hero. However, most of it is too farfetched -- they talk about cell phones and using the internet but introduce a loving father who loses track of his daughter who was living only a few hours away and owns a small business -- not very likely! A Coast guard officer who never gets reassigned or leaves his home town, again this baffles me! Some of the mystery is never really resolved (the rope around the ankle of the step mother?). I also felt the Christian message gets a bit too preachy and could be toned down a bit.
December 10, 2015
I started the audiobook, and the narrator drove me nuts. But I liked the story in spite of that, so I finished the rest of the tale with a library paperback. It's a good mystery, even though I didn't like the local police deciding that it must be the outsider, Libby, who's at fault, instead of hunting for full evidence before deciding. I loved the part of how Libby learns to build a relationship with her newly-discovered family and realizes that, no matter their attitude, she is to love them well anyway.
July 28, 2023
First book in an older Colleen Coble series I have not read. Lots of suspense, twists, turns, and hurricanes in North Carolina as Libby inherits a huge inn from her dad that she had been told died when she was 5 and finds a sister and brother she never knew about. Quick, enjoyable, read. I look forward to reading the rest of this series.
September 27, 2018
Not a fan
I normally like her books, But for some reason I just could not get into this one. I didn’t like the main character and didn’t care what happened to her. For me, this book was not that well written and I chose not to finish it.
I normally like her books, But for some reason I just could not get into this one. I didn’t like the main character and didn’t care what happened to her. For me, this book was not that well written and I chose not to finish it.
December 31, 2021
This is the second time I've read this book, and I still love it. I've never actually cried in a book, but this brought me close
July 11, 2024
Ok I’ve decided I just don’t like cozy mysteries, this is like the 3rd I’ve read and I just find them so boring. The characters names were hard to keep track of who was who as well, and I didn’t connect with any characters. This book also has a heavy religion aspect to it so if you’re not religious it is hard to connect with the characters.
January 4, 2024
It was good, very predictable, but good. I could guess most things that would happen as soon as they would come up.
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