Sea Rose Lane: A Hope Harbor Novel

Irene takes her readers back to Hope Harbor in her latest book, "Sea Rose Lane," and I enjoyed this return trip. Eric is returning home after a change in his life and hoping to figure things out; however his home is not the same as his father is converting it into a bed and breakfast. BJ is in charge of the renovations and Eric and her so exactly click at first. BJ is dealing with things from her past and Hope Harbor may just be the place where both of these individuals need to be at this time.

Hope Harbor is such a cute town that has really become like a real place to me in Irene's books. It is a town filled with wonderful people and I love how she weaves in multiple characters and their stories into the books. This is a sweet story of healing and love and moving on, but also one that just has such a homey feel to still and a picture of small town life that will leave you longing to be a part of the town and a part of these characters' lives.

*Thanks to the Revell Reads Blogger Program for the complimentary copy of this book in exchange for a honest review.*

This was an enjoyable contemporary Christian romance book. It can stand alone from the first book in the Hope Harbor series. It is perfect for summer reading. Eric Nash grew up in Hope Harbor but does not return often. He is laid off from his job of big time lawyer so he heads home to see his father and decompress. He is surprised to find the house being turned into a bed and breakfast. The contractor on the house is a woman named BJ. He starts off on the wrong foot with her when he first gets to town. Their attraction is there from the beginning. BJ has her own issues from her last relationship that went really bad. She is scared to love again and does not want to leave Hope Harbor. She has fallen in love with the people, town, and lifestyle. Eric does not think he is staying for more than a few weeks. Their were some memorable secondary characters too. The characters and plot were well developed and interesting. The conclusion was satisfying. I am looking forward to reading the next Hope Harbor book. Recommended.

Review copy provided by publisher in exchange for an honest review.

Irene Hannon continues the Hope Harbor series with Sea Rose Lane. This novel deals with many issues facing our world today from job loss, immigration, stereotypes, heartbreak, aging, and hope. When Eric loses his prestigious job in a law firm that he thought he would be a partner in one day, he returns home looking for comfort and a place to rethink his future. He never realized that he will be the one providing help, hope, and romance to the community of Hope Harbor. Eric finds his Dad remodeling his childhood home into a bed and breakfast inn with local contractor BJ Stevens. BJ is not only good with a hammer but she is also good looking. The rough start that brings BJ and Eric together is soon dismissed as they begin to work together on several intriguing adventures. I love the setting of this book. Like the other books in this series the seaside town of Hope Harbor in Oregon is the beautiful setting for the novel. I love the community of Hope Harbor and would love to live in a community that reached out to others in need the way "Helping Hands" does in Hope Harbor. I am honestly looking into what groups in my community I can volunteer to help with - it may not be helping hands, but every little thing helps.

I like contemporary romance books that are part of a series so I decided to give this on a try. I was surprised to find that I had a Christian Fiction book. This was a library book and Most of the time they are labeled but someone missed on this one. Hannon did a very good job of working the references to God and Prayer into the fabric of the story. Unlike some books those references did not interrupt the flow of the story. There are some very interesting and different characters in the book. Coming home after loosing a job is a familiar trope but it works really well for the story set in Hope Harbor. My favorite was Charlie. He steels the show even though he is a side character. He is the one that helps guide the story and the characters to their HEA. In fact there is one HEA that is not a romance but comes from a change in the lives of two of the characters. I did like the absence of sex beyond hugs and kisses. It was refreshing not to have to listen to so many body parts.

Sea Rose Lane: A Hope Harbor Novel by Irene Shannon follows Eric Nash, a recently-fired lawyer who returns to Hope Harbor, finds out that his childhood home is being turned into a bed and breakfast, and meets a pretty architect named BJ Stevens.

Like the book’s precursor, Hope Harbor, this novel showcases Hannon’s savvy writing skills. The dialogue is well-written, and the lead characters take part in witty repartee. Hannon’s description allows the reader to really get inside the characters’ heads. Even though most readers of romance novels would assume that the two main characters will get together at the end of this novel, there is still a cute “will they, won’t they” feel during their interactions. I also liked the Christian elements woven throughout the story. Eric and BJ each have struggles and imperfections, but their imperfections make them human and interesting, and turn them into well-rounded characters.

*I received this book for review*

Sea Rose Lane by Irene Hannon is the second book in her Hope Harbor series. I was introduced to Ms. Hannon's books last year when I read Hope Harbor and fell head over heels for this series. Don't you just love when you find a new-to-you author and a series you can dive into? I sure do!

Ms. Hannon's writing style is compelling and Sea Rose Lane was a wonderful read! The setting for this story (and series) is one of the things I really enjoyed ~ a quiet sea side town where everyone knows each other. The characters have depth, are realistic and engaging. The story captured my interest from start to finish. I was definitely sad to reach the ending.

I thoroughly enjoyed reading this faith based romance and can't wait to read the third book in this series ~ Sand Piper Cove being released in April 2017!
Thank you to Revell and Netgalley for the free book in exchange for an honest review.

Sea Rose Lane by Irene Hannon

It is not often when I read a book and I feel that I'm part of the story. I felt like I could have been a neighbor of Eric and BJ.

Every character had their own story to tell. I genuinely cared for them. It was a "feel good" book. I enjoyed the journey to the very last page.

I have never read anything by Ms. Hannon before. It sure won't be my last. Her writing style was so comfortable that it carried me away. I am thrilled to discover a new author.

The town is called Hope Harbor. This town gives every resident a ray of hope. It gave Luis hope for a better future. It gave Eleanor hope of better days ahead. It gave Eric hope to become whom he was meant to be. BJ had hopes for a better future and to escape her past.

I really loved this book. Everyone should add this to their must read column.

Irene Hannon is one of my favorite authors. I love her suspense novels, especially the Private Justice series. Sea Rose Lane isn’t a suspense novel, but I loved it just the same. It’s a Hope Harbor novel. I haven’t read the first book of the Hope Harbor series , but that just made its way to my reading list. I was given this book as part of Revell's Book Review Program

Here’s the summary:

After Erik loses his job, he comes back to Hope Harbor hoping to figure out where to go next. But he has a surprise waiting for him… His childhood home is getting renovated to a B&B. A not-so-good run in with town architect BJ Stevens starts his visit off bad.

BJ Stevens came to Hope Harbor to try and forget the past. Her dating life hasn’t gone as planned, and now she doesn’t want anything to do with it. There is one problem keeping her from that… Eric Nash.

BJ has a plan she’s been working on for months. It’s going to take some work though. When Eric offers to help her, things come together. For their plan. For their community. For their friends. For their own lives.

Irene Hannon does a great job of bringing her characters to life in any book. In this book, she puts her characters through tough decisions, but brings someone into their life at just the right moment.

When their lives come to a standstill, they watch God create an all new path for them. And another one. It’s up to them to decide which one they are going to take. They learn that their plans and God’s plan is not the same for their lives, and that God has the best plan for them. They learn to go where life takes them.

This book was very good. I enjoyed reading it.

This second book in the Hope Harbor series is just as intriguing as the first, though each book in the series works well as a standalone too. While BJ and Eric’s journey to happily ever after is the focus of this novel, it was actually Luis’ storyline that most captivated me. Don’t get me wrong – I loved the romance too (of course) but Luis’ subplot had so much dimension and emotion that I was always eager for an update. And Charley. Picture the big grin on my face. I adore Charley and his taco stand which dispenses as much wisdom as it does flavor.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book

Irene Hannon brings the coastal Oregon community of Hope Harbor to life, and it’s always a pleasure to visit this special place! Eric Nash and BJ Stevens are complex characters, and I really enjoyed their chemistry and the development of their relationship. Their visits with Charley were among the highlights of the story, and I delighted in the wit and wisdom he dished up with his tacos. Themes of hope and healing resonate through this narrative creating a lovely story that warmed my heart. I thoroughly enjoyed Sea Rose Lane and look forward to continuing this enchanting series!

I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an unbiased review. All thoughts expressed are my own.

If you only know Irene Hannon for her suspense novels you are missing out on some great writing. With the same gripping storytelling and wonderful characters you have come to expect of Hannon novels, Sea Rose Lane is a must read. Eric and BJ are both bold, hardworking people with soft hearts and determined attitudes to help others. While Eric and BJ have intriguing back stories, the supporting characters pasts are what hold this story together and keep you turning pages. Being the second novel in the Hope Harbor series you will want to read the first book (Hope Harbor) to get to know many of the characters in Sea Rose Lane.

I was given this book free from Revell Publishing for my honest review.

Sea Rose Lane is Irene Hannon's 50th published novel, and the second book in her new Hope Harbor series. I haven't yet read the first book, Hope Harbor, but these seem to function as stand-alone titles taking place in the same town with cameos by characters in previous books, but each one focusing on a new set of people. The third title in the Hope Harbor series is Sandpiper Cove, due out in Spring 2017. I only know Irene Hannon for her suspense novels - Christian suspense is my favorite genre, so I was only familiar with the novels she's written in that genre. When I had the opportunity to read a contemporary romance by her, I figured it would probably be a good read since I enjoy her other books. The back cover says:

"Three-Time RITA Winner Invites Readers Back to the Captivating Coastal Town of Hope Harbor

After a devastating layoff, attorney Eric Nash heads back to the town where he grew up--only to discover that his childhood home is being transformed into a bed & breakfast. Instead of plotting his next career move in peace, he's constantly distracted by noise, chaos--and BJ Stevens, the attractive but prickly blonde architect and construction chief who's invaded the house with her motley crew.

As for BJ, her client's son might be handsome, but after a disastrous romance, dating isn't high on her agenda. Yet when they join forces to create a program for Hope Harbor seniors, might they also find healing, hope, and a new beginning themselves?

Three-time RITA Award winner Irene Hannon takes readers back to Hope Harbor for a new season of charm, romance, and second chances."

I wavered between giving Sea Rose Lane 3 or 4 stars, but I eventually settled on 3 - although I'd give it a 3.5 if that was an option. I was intrigued by the back cover blurb, but there was really no tension or suspense surrounding the issues described (Eric's childhood home being turned into a bed and breakfast and the Hope Harbor senior's program). In fact, the story plodded along at a snail's pace; often with nothing of import happening for several chapters. Also, it had one of the characters I most hate in novels - a character who seems to have some sort of otherworldly knowledge and makes you wonder if he's real or some sort of heavenly being. In Sea Rose Lane, that character was Charley - a seemingly omniscient artist and taco stand owner who always knows things he shouldn't know, says mysterious things, and seems to have control over a pair of seagulls near his taco stand. I really don't like it when authors include characters such as these because I can't suspend disbelief and it makes me feel like the whole story is unbelievable and unrealistic.

However, there were positive points to this story as well. I enjoyed the side story line of Luis and Eleanor more than I enjoyed the intended main story line of Eric and BJ. I found Luis's plight inspiring and I enjoyed the interesting and unexpected twist that Eleanor discovered her hidden racism and overcame it with the Lord's help to minister to Luis. I was touched by how this unlikely pair teamed up and how Luis brought Eleanor back to life again and helped her open up and enjoy her later years instead of continuing to be lonely. Hope Harbor is a lovely little town and the plodding story line was reminiscent of slow and easy small town life. This is a good read for those who enjoy a small town contemporary romance novel.

I received a copy of this book from Revell in exchange for an honest review. All opinions are my own.

After reading Hope Harbor, I really liked the way in which the author writes romance. With this book was no exception.

The story starts a little slow at first, but as you go along, you begin to know and understand better the characters. Also, they have very different personalities, and there are times when it seems they cannot be together. But as time passes and their paths cross, both realize that they are an excellent team, and perhaps more than just a team.

This book will appeal to lovers of romance, but also those who enjoy contemporary novels.

-I received a book from the publisher in exchange for my honest opinion-

Irene Hannon, author of fifty-plus romantic suspense and contemporary romance novels, writes a tight and captivating story about learning how to deal with the past and learning to trust others and God for the future.

I found the lead characters to be realistic and well-layered, and the secondary characters rich, funny, troubled, fascinating. The harbor setting worked its magic, the plot kept rolling between doubt and hope, and the theme of “my brother’s keeper” spoke loudly and movingly.

If you like clean, romantic fiction, the Hope Harbor novels are for you.

This achingly sweet and tender love story by Irene Hannon hit all the right notes. Eric and BJ's relationship unfolded with a rare clear-headed caution, yet their purposes intertwined so beautifully it was hard not to read this one with a smile on my face and hope bubbling up in my heart. For me, the real gems in this story came from a motley crew of supporting cast that wrenched my emotions one minute and rejuvenated my faith the next. Characters like Eleanor, Luis, and Charley who peppered an already heartwarming tale with glimpses of grace and beauty found in the brokenness. Highly recommended!

I’ve come to love Irene Hannon for her suspense novels, but when I picked up this romance novel of hers, I found myself just as captivated by and engrossed in the story. It was definitely a “don’t want to put it down” book.

I loved that the characters in Sea Rose Lane were instantly relatable. I found myself lost in their world, cheering for them as they discovered themselves, each other, and what the future would hold. Their struggles were real and relatable. The outcomes, although semi-predictable, took their time in coming, weaving a wonderful plot.

Unfortunately, I didn’t enjoy the book as much as the blurb had intrigued me. As you all know, I am admittedly not a huge fan of contemporary novels, although I have made huge strides recently (authors such as Melissa Tagg and Becky Wade are contemporary favorites). So take my review with that grain of salt.

I was not able to connect with the characters. I was not feeling engaged in the story, and I found the plot a bit wanting as far as things happening. Even the relationship between BJ and Eric was something I didn’t feel invested in, and normally these things are what most engage me in a story.

All in all, this one wasn’t a favorite for me. However, readers of contemporary fiction will enjoy this novel. Fans of Irene Hannon should definitely pick this one up, as they will not be disappointed. If you like small town stories and a few quirky supporting characters, I think this one is for you.

*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.*

A wonderful piece of small town life. Makes me want to live there where everyone knows everyone else and helps one another. I loved the characters in this story; BJ, Eric and Luis precisely. This is an emotional and heartwarming story of people starting over in life.and finding their way with God's help. You are sure to enjoy this book that is different from Irene Hannon's usual mystery/suspense writing. A beautiful love story. This book was gifted to me by a friend.

Sea Rose Lane is the perfect breezy summer read. It is laid back and relaxing. Light and refreshing. Irene Hannon is known for her romantic suspense, but she's great at pure romance too. This story is about tentative BJ who doesn't want to risk losing her heart to Eric, who is only in town for an extended vacation while he's in between jobs. They both grow personally in this book and push themselves to do things they never thought they could. Very easy book to fall into.

This was a sweet romance story. Because of other books I've read by this author, I was expecting it to be a mystery, so was just a bit disappointed to realize it was strictly a romance.
It was an easy, quick, & light read.
I do think I'll make it a point of reading more in this series, I liked the characters!

Looking for a book that paints an enticing picture of small town coziness, with characters that you come to love just because of their frankness and dependability? This one is a great option then. I loved each one of the characters and in trying to pick out a favorite one...sorry, I can't settle on just one. They each have their endearing personalities, and goodness gracious, my mouth watered through half the book because of Charley and his fish tacos!

Now for my personal thoughts. :-J To me, I found the storyline itself somewhat lacking, in that it revolved almost completely around the attraction and romance between Eric and BJ (spoiler: the initials stand for Belinda June). I can handle romance so long as it is well balanced with a compelling storyline, and unfortunately this one just fell a little short. It seemed like the whole time Eric was arguing with himself about what the future would hold, and it seemed to get a little repetitive. I know this is a personal preference, so please just keep that in mind. The quality of writing really was well done.

Another issue I had was that Eric's spiritual life was somewhat lacking as admitted by himself, and you never see him praying for guidance about the decisions he has to make. Unfortunately you don't see any change in that area, and even though BJ brings it up as a concern at one point, it doesn't affect her decision in regards to her relationship with him. This was disappointing to me.

Overall, I would probably give this about 3 1/2 stars, but once again, this is just my personal rating and in no way a reflection on the author, or the enjoyment others will most likely experience from the story.

*Disclaimer: I received this book from Revell Books in exchange for my honest review.

Hope Harbor is a delightfully charming seaside town that the author depicts in such a way you want to be there! This book has really good true to life characters dealing with many issues. The main characters are Eric and BJ whose meeting begins with a bang. It's a sweet light romance that anyone will enjoy.

I received a copy of this book free from the publisher in exchange for an honest review.

I recently read Sea Rose Lane, by Irene Hannon. It is the second book in a themed series about Hope Harbor, a quaint town where people seem to be able to get away from life's business and healing always seems to take place. In this book, a previously successful attorney named Eric Nash heads back to his childhood home, Hope Harbor, after being laid off. Once there, he discovers that not only is the place where he grew up is being transformed into a bed and breakfast, but the architect in charge is a beautiful but mysterious woman named BJ Stevens.

Eric and BJ first clash on ideas about life and business, but after spending some time together, realize that maybe there is more to each of them than meets the eye. Eric befriends a Cuban immigrant who is running out of hope, and BJ works to help Hope Harbor's older residents from feeling lonely and forsaken. As they each focus on areas where others need to see hope and healing occur, they both find some healing and new beginnings for themselves as well.

This was another easy and relaxing read that is perfect for long summer days. Though the plot was quite simple, this book found me cheering for the hope that was springing up again in its characters. This book would be a delightful addition to a summer reading list, and with it, give the reminder to readers that there's always hope, even when it may seem hard to find.

I received this book from the blogger Revell Reads program in exchange for my honest opinion.

First, the disclaimer. "I was provided a free copy of this book. All opinions are my own." That done, SEA ROSE LANE is the second book in Ms. Hannon's Hope Harbor series, but it easily stands alone but fans will want to read Hope Harbor, the first book in the series by the same name.

BJ was prickly at first and I didn't think I would like her, but she did soften up considerably as the story progressed. I like her heart toward the elderly and the down-trodden and how she wanted to give them hope.

The taco man was just something else. One can't help but love him.

Eric is floundering, losing a job (downsizing) that he'd planned on for the long haul. He comes home to find out his dad is turning the family home into a bed and breakfast and has taken cooking classes, and well, then there's the hot woman in charge of the project... He also had a heart for the hurting. I liked him considerably.

Fans of romance will devour this new one by Ms. Hannon. Don't miss Sea Rose Lane. It will touch your heart--in more than one way.

Welcome back to Hope Harbor, Oregon and meet more delightful characters from this small town. Irene Hannon weaves a tale of romance between two people who are vastly different from each other. Eric is on a fast-track to a partnership in a law firm and BJ is a self-employed architect and builder. Discover how they overcome the obstacles in their lives and relationship.

Sandpiper Cove was the first I read in Hope Harbor series, picked it up at Barnes and Noble. Loved it!
I just finished Sea Rose Lane and totally enjoyed it. Looking forward to reading the first book in the series. Your right each book can stand alone, but I love how you draw the previous characters into the other books.
I've read Irene Hannon books for years and they never disappoint me.
What does reading an Irene Hannon book mean to me? It's clean , enjoyable reading, learn new facts, romance, and worth every penny I spent on her books.

Irene Hannon is one of my favorite authors, however this book is not like her typical. Actually, it reminded me a lot of Debbie Macomber's Rose Harbor books. Anyhow, the story line was sweet and I was very satisfied with the ending. I would definitely recommend this to a friend; great beach read!

A Fantastic love story. I have enjoyed this whole Hope Harbor series. This has been my favorite one. It can be read as a stand alone you would not be lost at all. But I suggest the whole series.
BJ and Eric are the couple everyone loves to hate (perfect) for each other. Not predictable at all.
This is Hannon's best series you don't want to miss this one.
I gave this book 4.5 stars and I HIGHLY recommend it.
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher for my honest review.

Sandpiper Cove was the first I read in Hope Harbor series, picked it up at Barnes and Noble. Loved it!
I just finished Sea Rose Lane and totally enjoyed it. Looking forward to reading the first book in the series. Your right each book can stand alone, but I love how you draw the previous characters into the other books.
I've read Irene Hannon books for years and they never disappoint me.
What does reading an Irene Hannon book mean to me? It's clean , enjoyable reading, learn new facts, romance, and worth every penny I spent on her books.

Irene Hannon is one of my favorite authors, however this book is not like her typical. Actually, it reminded me a lot of Debbie Macomber's Rose Harbor books. Anyhow, the story line was sweet and I was very satisfied with the ending. I would definitely recommend this to a friend; great beach read!

This has been a wonderful series, so far! I look forward to reading the next book. The characters and the storyline are so engaging. The word pictures are amazing, I can see, hear and smell everything that is happening in the books!

A Fantastic love story. I have enjoyed this whole Hope Harbor series. This has been my favorite one. It can be read as a stand alone you would not be lost at all. But I suggest the whole series.
BJ and Eric are the couple everyone loves to hate (perfect) for each other. Not predictable at all.
This is Hannon's best series you don't want to miss this one.
I gave this book 4.5 stars and I HIGHLY recommend it.
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher for my honest review.

In contrast to the chaotic world where we live, Hope Harbor is like a relaxing vacation. Ms. Hannon brings both the story and the characters to life. The people in the novel have real problems and are faced with life-altering decisions. I enjoyed the book very much and was sorry it had to end.