Amazon.com: Customer reviews: Starfish Pier

Top positive review

Heartwarming

Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on April 3, 2020

This book is no different than the five previous books in the Hope Harbor series, in that it is absolutely delightful and will warm your heart right from the start. Each of these books can be read as a standalone, however, reading them all introduces you to the many residents of Hope Harbor.

This story focuses on the Roark family, Steven, who has returned from being deployed as a member of the Delta Force, his brother Patrick, and his wife Cindy. Because of a letter Steven received while in the Middle East from Cindy expressing concern about Patrick, he retired from the military and came home. All those close to Patrick could clearly see alcohol was an issue. After being home for a year, Steven didn't feel like he'd been able to help his brother and in fact, their relationship was on shaky ground.

Holly, a first grade teacher recently moved to Hope Harbor to begin a new, more independent life. Although nearly 30, her parents had difficulty letting her go because of a medical condition. Because she wants to make friends and feel part of the community, she gets involved in the volunteer organization, Helping Hands. She and Steven meet when she approaches him to make a donation to a fund raising event sponsored by Helping Hands. Steven runs a charter fishing boat, and she found him on the boat, asking him to possibly donate a fishing trip. They do not seem to hit it off very well, and Steven doesn't feel he actually can support the volunteer group.

The Roark family is on a rocky journey, but as the story unfolds, the outpouring of love and support of the community is touching. Holly is on a mission to help a new elderly neighbor who just moved in next door to her. The way the story unfolds and comes together makes for a beautiful, heartwarming story that will touch your heart. I love how Irene Hannon so masterfully weaves her own faith into her books. I continued to think of the residents of Hope Harbor even after the last page was turned. I am so happy to know that there will be a book #7!

3 people found this helpful

Top critical review

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Garry L Clifton

Not what I expected

Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on April 7, 2020

I eagerly anticipated this book as I have read all of the previous books in this series. I looked forward to more interaction with charlie.this book dragged for me.maybe because of the world situation now but I had a hard time connecting.i was sadly disappointed in this book.

2 people found this helpful

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From the United States

Rebecca Maney

Lovely and Intentional Story!

Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on April 12, 2020

Verified Purchase

3.5 stars
"Lots of people write off potential friends who seem too different at first glance. The trick is taking a second look - and checking out their heart as well as their face."

Well, if making friends with the enigmatic charter boat captain was based solely on first glances, then there was a lot of handsome to look at, if she were looking. However, all that Holly Miller had hoped to accomplish by teetering down the dock, was to ask Steven Roark to consider donating a charter fishing trip for the local Helping Hands fund-raiser; what she got in return was an adamant difference of opinion.

In spite of their awkward beginnings, Holly and Steven's paths continue to cross. After all, Hope Harbor is not that big, and the community is known for its hospitality. Overcoming obstacles have led both of them to a deeper understanding of themselves, but it's the mistakes that Steven has buried from his past that may prove to be too overwhelming for Holly to overcome . . . unless she can accept the fact that love isn't designed to demand perfection, but rather to "keep no record of wrongs".

Holly and Steven's path towards wholeness is only one of three major story lines in this book, each of which could have stood on their own, but needed the strength of the other to make this such a satisfying read.

2 people found this helpful

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butterflyreview

good book

Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on April 25, 2020

Verified Purchase

Another good Hope Harbor book. Holly is trying to establish her independence from over protective parents. She has health issues that makes her parents want to hover. She throws herself into the community and those around her. Steven wants to be left alone. He is trying to reconnect to his brother without the conflict that has been there before. Steven is carrying around baggage from his Army days as well as from his previous marriage. Holly and Steven seem to disagree on a lot of things. This is their story on how God can restore.

I was given this book by Revell Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.

2 people found this helpful

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JoSham

Very well written for controversial topic

Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on May 3, 2020

Verified Purchase

I appreciate the author's willingness to tackle such controversial topics and to do so in a way that doesn't depress the reader. I guess that's the effect of hope when tackling a though one.
The 4 stars are probably due to over saturation of the 'local wildlife'. Not sure they are much whim anymore.

Helpful

Gripping, Emotional, Provocative

Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on April 1, 2020

Thank you in advance to the publisher, Revell, and Interviews and Reviews providing a complimentary advance review copy. A positive review was not required. All words and thoughts are my own.

It is worth noting that with Christian and/or Clean Reads I hardly have to add trigger or content warnings. However, with this novel, I have to add both. It starts right off with two hotbed issues that both characters are seemingly on different sides:

* Abortion

* Death Penalty

As two of the items are divisive issues, readers who feel very strongly about them (either side), may want to exercise caution in reading this.

There are also “trigger” warnings as well and readers that are sensitive to the subjects will definitely want to exercise caution:

* Alcoholism

* PTSD

* Suicide/Right to Die

* Cancer

“Starfish Pier” is the sixth (6th) book in the “Hope Harbor” series. Some of the characters from the previous novels are hinted to in this book. This is easily a standalone read, but it would likely be better enjoyed with the entire series.

While the cover depicts a clear, calm, soothing, and tranquil setting – this novel is anything but that – or is it about finding that calm, soothing, and tranquil way of life?

Right off Hannon hits with the issues – it’s clear, in the beginning where Holly and Steven stand on those issues.

But, that isn’t all this book is about.

Hannon has a lot going on in this novel – tackling hot social issues, trigger issues, realities of war/training and the emotional toll, along with tackling disabilities and independence.

Some might consider having all these plot lines “cluttered”, however the author takes great steps in presenting the story without feeling like it is busy. This is a refreshing realistic take. She balances it all with scripture and Christian references; however it isn’t a full-fledged sermon.

The main characters (Steven, Patrick, Holly, Charley, and Pete) were realistically written and all had such diversity to them – a war hero who felt anything but, a mill worker who had to grow up in the shadow of his brother, a teacher living with a disability, a mystic/cook, and a sad older man. Each one of them finds a connection and the reason for it.

Steven is trying to make peace with a violent past, Patrick is finally coming to terms and healing from an embarrassing secret, Holly is trying to navigate her disability along with her life while raising money for charity, Charley is the wise taco maker, and Pete is waiting for everything to end.

In the middle of their drama, an old cannon is found which turns out to belong to a ship once owned by Steven and Patrick’s great-great-grandfather. Thus begins a debate as to what to do with it – display it and celebrate the history, or would they be glorifying a weapon of war?

Charley puts it best – we shouldn’t be in a rush to judge.

Hannon expertly tackles the “opposing views” on each subject in the middle of this romance. The author presented Holly and Steven’s attraction in an amazing realistic manner – they had problems to overcome and didn’t want to get into a relationship. This showed not only great restraint, but also great maturity. However, it also demonstrated an inability to communicate to through the challenges.

The author also points out how being informed on issues helps us make better opinions, especially after an incident with Holly.

Controversial, sad, uplifting, inspiring, beautiful, and poignant – Starfish Pier also has a message of redemption. God forgives us and gives us a second chance. We owe it to ourselves to take the chances and live the life he has given us.

Hannon teaches us that we can consider all sides of an argument without straying from our personal beliefs, along with respecting divergent opinions and recognize the good in imperfect people.

With the way this began, I was a bit cautious and holding on as I didn’t know where the author was taking this. No heated debates, but an honest conversation that shows how our views come from our life experiences, what we’ve been exposed to, and how we were raised.

This was very well written and structured with an easy, natural flow so that it kept my interest. I definitely enjoyed it as I was reading it, and after getting into it, it was difficult to walk away from it. I also have the previous five novels on the TBR (to be read) list.

Fans of the author; and those who enjoy clean and/or Christian reads will probably enjoy this book. As I haven’t read the others in this series, I don’t know if they have similar content in the way of social issues and/or trigger issues though.

Helpful

llamalina reada

Inspiring read...

Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on April 8, 2020

“It was a small gesture—but as the quote from Mother Teresa on the plaque in her parents’ home said, ‘Not all of us can do great things. But we can do small things with great love.’” Oh, how I love Holly and Stephen’s hearts for others. This quote really expresses the heart of community and Hope Harbor.

This is my first trip to Hope Harbor and I’m hooked. Hannon’s description of this little seaside town in Oregon just has me wanting to move there. I loved the small town feel, the Starfish Pier setting, and all the quirky characters that added depth and humor to the story. The romance was a beauty, too with some major heart issues to overcome for Holly and Stephen. I’m looking forward to going back and reading the rest of the series. It felt like a heart hug from God.

“We simply have to respect divergent opinions and recognize the good in the imperfect people we love—which more often than not will outweigh the bad.” I believe this so true! If we could all just find that common ground of love and respect, then maybe we could live more with forgiveness.

Holly is a strong leading lady who is establishing independence after moving away from home. She doesn’t like seeing people lonely and feels for her reticent neighbor, Pete, who has his own battles. Stephen deals with not feeling he is forgivable or worthy of love. I love how Hannon uses characters in the book to help draw him to forgiveness, healing and ultimately finding true love. He yearns for family and yet, can’t get through his brother’s barriers. As each of them slowly open their hearts, we see healing come from God and community. There are some heavy heart and moral issues dealt with in this book that could be difficult. However, I felt Hannon handled it with compassion, sincerity, and grace.

“But as we’re reminded in Corinthians, a love that keeps no record of wrongs . . . that perseveres . . . never fails.” Being able to see past our hurts and differences to the heart of others and how God sees us and others is key to love and forgiveness. Hannon wrote an incredible story of finding healing and forgiveness and even life in the town of Hope Harbor. I’m looking forward to more from this series, but found this easily read as a stand alone novel. If you love contemporary romance that deals with overcoming hard life issues in the fight for love and community, you’ll love Starfish Pier.

I was provided a copy of this book through NetGalley by the publisher. All opinions in this review are my own.

One person found this helpful

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Wendy Holley

A wonderful visit to the Oregon Coast, sweet romance.

Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on March 31, 2020

Starfish Pier is another wonderful visit to Hope Harbor. Irene Hannon captures the vibe of a small community on the Oregon Coast. Where residents are welcoming and quick to help. This sweet love story explorers how two individuals from opposing viewpoints and very different backgrounds can bridge the divide with respect and love.

The characters grapple with real life issues of addiction, disability, and terminal illness. Each finding that by opening their hearts and letting other’s in, they can face their fears and find hope in community.
I enjoyed getting to know Steven, a former Special Ops, who struggles with his past and desires a new start. He’s a real gentleman but not wimpy. He cares for his family and is willing to make sacrifices for them. Holly is a refreshing change from the usual heroine. I appreciate the author willing to write a character with a physical disability and how it shaped her. I admire Holly for having the courage to move away from her overly protective parents and start a new life. All though life has not been easy for someone with her condition, she refused to be defined by it nor be a victim.

This is a relaxing read while some reader may find the pacing slow and the story predictable. I found the underlying topics and the character’s development kept me engaged.

This story delves into how kindness and community have the power to heal. While this story does touch upon right to life issues, alcoholism, and terminal illness, it does so with integrity and the author doesn’t get on a soap box to beat a viewpoint. She presents these life issues with honesty and respect.

Given where we are in the world today, this book is a refreshing reminder of our need for community, kindness, and forgiveness. I enjoy this series and look forward to the next one.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Baker Publishing/Revell, through Interviews & Reviews for an honest review.

Helpful

Gina Holder

Addressing some of the most difficult topics of life

Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on May 24, 2020

I’ve only traveled to “Hope Harbor” on a few occasions, but this quaint town on the coast of Oregon is the kind of place you want to visit time and time again. Mrs. Hannon has created a hometown that feels as real as any on earth. From the taco chef Charley to the seagull “couple” to the bantering clerics, Hope Harbor is a place that will make you feel at home and bring a smile to your face at the same time the characters struggle with deep personal issues and flaws. Mrs. Hannon creates a clean, tactful story while also not shying away from the most difficult decisions people face in life and Starfish Pier, I believe, takes on one of the hardest I’ve ever seen in a Christian romance novel.
Alcoholism, abortion, assisted suicide, and capital punishment all play a major part in the lives of these characters. This story addresses questions that are some of the most controversial and difficult to answer. However, this story also brings into the light the incredible forgiveness offered by an amazing God. If He offers people a second chance, shouldn’t we?
One of my favorite quotes is this: “We’re all like stones tossed in the water, creating a ripple effect with outer limits too far away for us to see. But God sees them.” We never know the ripple effect that our decisions will cause both to the good and to the bad. As the Scripture says, “For none of us liveth to himself, and no man dieth to himself. (Romans 14:7)”
Because of the heavy elements to this story, I recommend parent discretion for anyone under 18, however it is clean both in language and intimacy. (One married couple does head into the bedroom for behind closed-door activities.)
I recommend this book for those who are looking for something deeper with a difficult path for the romance to traverse.
I received a copy of this book from the publisher. All thoughts and opinions are my own. A positive review was not required.

Helpful

B. Burnham

Loved my return visit to Hope Harbor!

Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on May 11, 2020

Irene Hannon, author of the Hope Harbor series, is one of the reasons I have added a trip to the Oregon coast to my bucket list. While the small coastal town of Hope Harbor is fictional, Hannon’s descriptions of the beauties of the area have captured my imagination. But until I can make travel plans, I continue to revisit the community that boasts of caring, if sometimes quirky, citizens. The sixth trip, Starfish Pier, is as good as the first 5 books in the series — it is a recommended read!

I love how Hannon introduces new characters in each of her books in this series, yet includes old favorites. Starfish Pier focuses on relative newcomers to Hope Harbor. Holly Miller, Steven Roark, and Pete Wallace all have their reasons to make Hope Harbor their home. The three are definitely their own individuals, but as their stories intertwine, the reader becomes invested in each. Starfish Pier is billed as a contemporary romance, but I feel it is more about the importance of supportive relationships, although I won’t deny I did love the sparks between Holly and Steven! 😉 The theme of life having worth and purpose plays out in various scenarios. Real life issues are discussed in natural ways, while there is an emphasis on hope which is always a part of this series.

Starfish Pier can be read as a standalone novel, but I recommend you begin at the beginning. And if you need a series to binge read, this one is the perfect choice. Plus, there will be more to come. I cannot wait!

Recommended.

Audience: adults.

(Thanks to Revell for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

Helpful

Nikita W.

Gulls and peaceful coastal breezes set the stage for an interesting romance...

Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on May 30, 2020

Starfish Pier
Breathe. Just breathe. Slow and steady, one small step at a time. We’ll get there eventually.
Holly Miller has just started a new life for herself in Hope Harbor after a bad breakup. She thrives in her job as a elementary teacher, and she loves volunteering for the community outreach group, Helping Hands. Though she lives with spina bifida, she believes life is worth fighting for, and goes after it with passionate abandon. Things go smoothly for this pretty introvert, until she reaches out to a possible donor and finds him to be a cantankerous character, and seemingly her moral polar opposite.
Steven Roark moved to Hope Harbor to relax, refocus and recharge after a stressful job as a military special ops sniper. He is determined to make it his new mission to reunite with his long estranged brother, and help fix his brother’s crippling alcohol addiction before it’s over permanently. But when Holly Miller blows into his life without warning, he finds himself frustrated with her difference of spirit and courage, yet doesn’t want to see her leave either.
Turns out, different personalities may result in some very interesting chemistry.
No one knows how many lives you can touch everyday with ordinary kindness and simple care for others. Every life matters.
This is a different story from most I’ve reviewed, and though romance is not my particular cup of coffee, I liked this one more than I first believed I would. ;-)
This would be an instant favorite for any Hallmark Channel fan, I think.
Loved reading from a completely new author to me. Well done, Mrs. Hannon!
I look forward to your next book! 

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G Anderson

Always great to return to Hope Harbor with old and new friends

Reviewed in the United States 🇺🇸 on March 31, 2020

Starfish Pier is a nice addition to the series of Hope Harbor, a small town on the Oregon coast where people are friendly and have a great sense of community support. Steven Roark moved to Hope Harbor a year prior to be close to his brother and family. Steven is a former soldier with what he considers a lot of baggage. His brother Patrick is having problems with alcohol that is increasingly getting worse. Steven would love to help but his brother holds some resentment towards Steven. They have to try to work together to deal with their individual and relational issues.
Holly Miller moved to Hope Harbor to get away from overprotective, hovering parents and to teach first grade. She has had some health issues her whole life. She has a new neighbor, Pete, an elderly man who wants to avoid the world. When Holly and Steven meet, there is a definite attraction but can they overcome obstacles to make a relationship work?
This series has some great recurring characters in Charley, a wise man who sells fish tacos and is an artist, a couple of funny clerics who are friends as well as spiritual advisers, and a pair of seagulls, Gladys and Floyd, who seem to turn up everywhere, as well as other locals. Overcoming personal issues and conflict, small town community, romance, and faith are strong characteristics of life in Hope Harbor. I recommend reading this story and the rest of the great series in order if possible.
I received a complimentary ARC from Revell Publishing and NetGalley. All thoughts and opinions expressed are mine only.

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