STARFISH PIER by Irene Hannon, Reviewed by Trixi Oberembt

“We're all different. We don't fit together as cleanly as the pieces of a jigsaw puzzle. Sometimes there are gaps. Rough edges. Holes. The finished product when we come together isn't always perfect. But as we're reminded in Corinthians, a love that keeps no record of wrongs...that perseveres...never fails.”

Hannon never fails to teach life lessons and God's truths in her stories. She shows them in characters who are imperfect and broken both emotionally and sometimes spiritually. Steven Roark has had his share of battles. An ex-Delta force operator in the military, he served his country as a sniper snuffing out evil; in his personal life in much deeper ways. Holly Miller too has fought physical battles and recently moved to Hope Harbor for a peaceful new start. Her first grade kids give her new meaning to life and unconditional love she craves. These two are on opposite spectrums when it comes to viewing deeply seated moral issues that have an instant impact on developing any kind of relationship. It takes a community of diverse people to show them that in spite of their beliefs, they can see eye to eye and have a deeper understanding of what has made them who they are.

“If God is willing to give people a second chance, why should we do any less?”

“I'm learning everyone has many layers...and one or two don't define us.

Hannon also never fails to write a story that is deeply emotional and draws you into the lives of her characters. I loved Holly's neighbor Pete, a newcomer and recluse who just needs to be shown love....reluctantly at first, but soon her sunny nature breaks down those walls. Then there's Steven's brother Patrick who is also battling his own problems that could lead to disaster. All he needs is a second chance and people to give him opportunities to do right. See? It really does take a village to bring about peaceful harmony and small gestures to show compassion and love. Then there's old favorite characters that I met with her first book that also continue to play a vital role in making Hope Harbor what it is, Charley the sage advice giving taco slinger, Flyod and Glady's his two seagull companions, and glimpses of others who I've gotten to know throughout this series. I think the first quote I gave in my review really does sum up this book; God can make a perfect jigsaw puzzle out of imperfect people and fit them exactly together the way He intends. Nobody is beyond love's reach and God can use each one of us to show this in everyday life. And lastly, the hard-won romance that developed between Steven and Holly was sublime! I enjoyed watching their walls crumble and attraction turn into a love that will last.

There's nothing about a Hannon book that I don't like! She is my go-to Christian fiction writer for both contemporary romance and romantic suspense. If you love stories full of tight-knit small town communities with lots of heart and faith, then I think you'll enjoy Starfish Pier! Be sure to read every book in this series, I can guarantee you'll want to once you start!
* A complimentary copy was provided through NetGalley. No favorable review was required and all opinions are my own. *

BackCover Blurb:
A year ago, ex-Delta Force operator Steven Roark left the rigors of combat behind to run fishing charters in Hope Harbor, decompress, and talk some sense into his kid brother. Business is good--but making peace with his past is more challenging than he expected.

First-grade teacher Holly Miller leads a quiet, low-profile existence--until she's recruited to advocate for a cause that's dear to her heart. When she solicits Steven's assistance, sparks fly--especially after they find themselves on opposite sides of an issue that disrupts their placid seaside community.

As these two seemingly incompatible souls search for common ground, might they discover a deeper connection--and find that love can banish darkness and light the way to a future filled with promise?

Bestselling and award-winning author Irene Hannon invites you back to Hope Harbor--where hearts heal . . . and love blooms.

Available in digital ebook, paperback, hardcover and audiobook:
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