Starfish Pier

Written by Irene Hannon

Narrated by Therese Plummer

Opposites may attract—but can two very different people find lasting love?

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 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 wrestle with their differences, might they discover more common
ground than they expect—and a future filled with promise?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Recorded Books, Inc.
• Release date: Mar 31, 2020
• ISBN: 9781980064350

Irene Hannon

Two-time RITA Award winner Irene Hannon is the bestselling author of 40+ romance and romantic suspense novels. She has also won a National Readers’ Choice Award, a Carol Award, a HOLT Medallion, a Daphne du Maurier Award and 2 Reviewers’ Choice Awards from RT Book Reviews. Booklist named one of her novels a “Top 10 Inspirational Fiction” title for 2011. Visit www.irenehannon.com.

Reviews for Starfish Pier

[Tracey Auer · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This book deals with a lot of hard subjects and includes a great love story.

[judiththorne · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

A good presentation but not my favorite of this author. A little bit too “ goodie two shoes” for me

[Mira Ruuska · Rating: 2 out of 5 stars]

The author aimed at showing that people can get along with each other regardless of different opinions, which is an important message, but the book lacks a comprehensive presentation of the different aspects to the hot topics. Fiction is an efficient way to affect attitudes and this book could have played a more significant role in articulating the opposing parties’ points of view.

[jenniferrobb · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

I've read other books in this series. When I started this one, I felt like I didn't know any of the characters. I can't tell if I missed something along the way, or if that's just how this entry is. (Eventually a few series regulars make their way into the story--Charlie for one.)The tide pools mentioned sound very interesting. This is what I'd term "feel-good-fiction". Hope Harbor seems to have the effect of making everything turn up roses. People find love; people find purpose; people conquer their demons. It's the way we wish life would be.

[maydacat_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Holly is a tender-hearted school teacher, living on her own at last. A bit over-protected by her parents because of a medical condition, she lives a private life, and cares greatly for the people in her new community. Steven has recently left the military, where he was a special-ops soldier, highly trained in combat. A chance meeting between these two very different people grows into a friendship that seems destined to be more, that is, until they start sharing things from their past. It is obvious that, while attracted to each other, that may not be enough to overcome their differences in what they believe. This novel explores different social issues, including abortion, assisted suicide, war, and more. The author addresses these issues in a thoughtful and moral manner. The story is well written, with well-developed characters. Even the secondary characters are quite interesting, especially Charley, the taco guy. This series never gets boring, it only gets better.

[niquetteb · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Holly is a first grade teacher new to Hope Harbor. She is shy, but pushes herself out of her comfort zone. She has a new neighbor with cancer who plans on ending his life through assisted suicide. The neighbor's suffering appears to be more emotional from the loss of his wife rather than physical. Holly also meets another resident of the town, who is an ex-Delta force member, whose brother is an alcoholic. This book would appeal to those with a personality type of wanting to "fix" others' problems. The author uses a superficial character development technique of having character's thoughts directly stated in italics, which tends to distance the reader rather than draw them into the presented lives. I was a little disappointed in the lack of experiential feeling from this "romance."

[polarmath · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I love Hope Harbor and the characters that live there. Steven has moved there to have a more peaceful life to spend his days fishing and taking people out to fish, but there are still things in his past that stick with him. Holly finds herself working with Steven on a project where they don't always agree it turns into a really big deal as the entire community gets involved. They have to learn how to work for this good cause even when they don't always agree. I know how hard that can be to really be pasionate about something but to have to sometimes give in to make things work for the best. I received a copy of the book the review is mine.

[jillrey · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Steven is ex-military, settling into Hope Harbor as a fish charter boat captain. Holly is newer to town, taking over as the first-grade teacher and diving into volunteer work at the local church.  Both harbor their own secrets. Starfish Pier is not my first experience with author Irene Hannon.  After previously reading Hidden Peril, a suspenseful romance, Starfish Pier was a much more tranquil vibe. However, from the start I was skeptical about the abruptness of their feelings for one another.  From literally the moment Holly stumbles on his boat they are smitten but fighting back love.  The chemistry of Steven and Holly was hard to feel as the shifting of perspectives from Steven, to Holly, to Steven’s brother Patrick, and even Holly’s neighbor Pete added to the forced feeling of their romantic bond.  Regardless, Hannon holds nothing back as she embraces some incredibly heavy themes and topics.  Thus, as the setting remains idealistic, there are certainly some heavy storms waged on land, in hearts and through the secrets each holds. *Disclaimer: A review copy was provided by the publisher.  All opinions are my own.

[fcplcataloger · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Holly Miller is a first grade teacher who has moved to Hope Harbor for a new start. She is such a special person and I admired her efforts to raise money to protect humans in all stages of life. Becoming involved in a fundraiser introduces her to a former military man who has actually taken lives and, as different as they are, an attraction is felt and the romantic sparks fly! But how can two people with such different ideas even attempt to explore a relationship? What follows is a lovely but very emotional story that shows how a community bands together to show Holly and Steven Roark that their differences can be overcome. These people recognize that Holly and Steven are meant for each other!Author Irene Hannon has filled Starfish Pier with wonderful quotes that prompted me to reflect on God's presence in our lives. She shares a powerful faith message about the sanctity of life and the importance of forgiveness and she also reminds us that each of us must decide our destiny. Will we allow our past lives to continue to dominate us or will we choose to use our mistakes to build a foundation for a worthwhile future?"Trying to understand the mystery of God is like digging a hole on the beach and trying to transfer the sea into it, bucket by bucket. It's never going to happen. That's why trust is integral to faith." Some of the subjects in this book are controversial but this is an unforgettable story of hope and healing. I loved this sixth Hope Harbor novel and I would love to visit there again. I certainly recommend Starfish Pier to all who enjoy contemporary romance and Christian fiction.I received a copy of this book from Revell. There was no obligation for a positive review and I am voluntarily sharing my own thoughts.

[harley0326 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

The story is an emotional journey with several amazing characters. The setting is serene and breathtaking and I felt relaxed as the story unfolded. Holly is sweet and caring and is on a mission to get funds for a project she believes in. She deals with physical issues but it never stops her from following her dreams.Steven is a handsome man who has come home to repair his relationship with his brother. I really liked how determined he was to rebuild his relationship with his brother. Getting to know Steven’s brother was an emotional rollercoaster. The author does an excellent job of talking about alcoholism and the effects it has on the entire family. I so wanted Patrick to finally surrender and admit he needed help.What I really liked about the story was the fragile connection that Steven and Holly first had. They don’t see eye to eye on some issues which makes for a story filled with forgiveness and trusting God to heal wounds. I so much wanted to see them work things out and become a couple. I don’t want to forget to mention Pete. He is Holly’s neighbor and tends to stay to himself. Holly continues to make every effort to befriend him. The secret she learns about him is one that will require tissues. I wanted to adopt Pete as my granddad. His story will have an impact on several characters as he learns to trust people again.The story is a wonderful journey through several tough subjects that the author handles with eloquent writing. I enjoyed every moment I spent getting to know each character and watching God change them.I received a copy of this book from Revell Reads. The review is my own opinion.

[alekee_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I was so happy to be back in Hope Harbor, this is the sixth book in the series, and I will let you know that it can be read alone. Past characters did play parts in this read, and some just made a cameo, but it was great to meet up with them.This story tugs on your emotions, and you want to help, but of course, we are unable, will one of the characters here die, because he has decided, will another loose everything because of his addiction? Then there is a sweet young woman who has recently moved to this area and become a first grade teacher, but she is dealing with life long problems, this touched me as the problem was close and personal, but she has dealt with it remarkably.Then we are given a man that served his country with Honor, but will these two be able to overcome their heart held differences, and one that is totally filled with guilt?Journey in the lives of these dear people who inhabit Hope Harbor, you won't be disappointed, and it made me want to live there!I received this book through Revell Blogger Program, and was not required to give a positive review.

[lamb521 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Title: Starfish Pier (Hope Harbor Series #6)Author: Irene HannonPages: 352Year: 2020Publisher: RevellMy rating: 5 out of 5 stars.In the Hope Harbor series, there are six books beginning with Hope Harbor, followed by Sea Rose Lane, Sandpiper Cove, Pelican Point and Driftwood Bay. Each book in the series tells a captivating tale around a set of characters who deal with a variety of challenges. The novels touch the heart of readers and leaves them with a sense of hope as they finish the book. While reading each book in order isn’t necessary because each book is a story unto itself, I found reading each one makes the next one better. When I was done reading the newest addition to the series, Starfish Pier, I was delighted to find out that another installment is due out on Spring of 2020!The story here revolves around two people who have experienced heart break and challenges in different life experiences that have forged their path in life. First, there is Holly Miller who has a physical ailment that challenges her each and every day. Holly must choose whether to live to her fullest or let her physical disability keep her from all God has for her. When she decides to move a little way from her folks, it is with the hope she will come out of her shell and meet someone special, though there is more to her than I am revealing.Then we meet Steven Roark whose military background has made him a man on a mission, a champion for what is right and yet there is more to the heart of this man. Steven loves his brother, came to Hope Harbor to help, and to chart a new career path. While he didn’t go looking for love, or hoping to have a less solitaire future, it might just find him in Hope Harbor. But will Steven face his past demons and his deepest regrets?I have thoroughly enjoyed Irene Hannon’s series from the mysterious taco seller named Charley who seems to have keen intuition into the heart of those who visit his stand to the seagulls who show up in the book and add some comedy! Grab one of the books or read all of them in order while you sit down and take time to get lost in the town of Hope Harbor. You will be glad you did and maybe pass the stories of hope to others.Note: The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility

[grammy57 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This is the first book I've read by Irene Hannon and I enjoyed the book. It is part of the Harbor Hope series but is also a stand-alone book. The story grabbed my attention from the very first chapter and I was kept captivated throughout. There were four main characters in this book and each one had a secret. That was one thing that helped keep my interest. The story flowed well.I also enjoyed that this was truly a Christian novel. It showed how the characters used their faith to help with their problems. It was not preachy, but faith-based. The editing was very well done. I don't remember any errors. I would recommend this book to my friends. This is my own, honest opinion. I received this book through the Revell Reader's Blog Program. I am not required to leave a positive review. I give this book 4 out of 5 stars.

[medwards429 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

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.

[khiemstra631 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Irene Hannon has given us another entry in her stellar Hope Harbor series with Starfish Pier, her latest book. Readers can always count on a few givens in each book in the series: the two clerics teasing each other; Floyd and Gladys, the seagulls; and a romance that must work its way through a few difficulties before true love flourishes That said, each book is a stand-alone novel, but yet, each offers enough continuity to belong to the series, something that is not easily accomplished by an author.. In this case, the romance happens between Holly Miller, a first grade teacher, and fisherman Steven Roark. Both have secrets they have not disclosed to anyone else in their new hometown of Hope Harbor. Steven's brother, Patrick, also lives in Hope Harbor with his wife and two children, and he is the reason that Steven moved there. Patrick has problems that everyone but he can see. And then, there is Holly's new next-door neighbor, Pete Wallace, who also just moved to town and has a secret plan he intends to put in place regarding his life. The plot of the book covers the revealing of all of these problems and the intertwining of the characters' lives. I enjoyed the book, but this time I thought that everything resolved itself a little too neatly. Still, in this time of uncertainty during the COVID19 pandemic, I recommend the book. Sometimes, a nice, feel-good read with a happy ending is just what the doctor ordered.

[jaymewill-1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I have read most of Irene Hannon's books and I love them all. She is mostly known for her suspense fiction. But this series, Hope Harbor, is definitely on the lighter side. Starfish Pier is the sixth book in the series. Each book has characters from the previous stories, but they can stand alone. In Starfish Pier, we meet school teacher Holly. She has recently arrived in Hope Harbor. She meets Stephen while asking for a donation for a local charity. Both are attracted to each other, but they have issues that need to be discussed head on and worked through. Side plots in the story include sensitive topics such as abortion, killing in wartime, assisted suicide and alcohol addiction. I thought the story a bit slow at first. I am used to Hannon's heart pumping thrills. After a while, though, the story turned out to be a good read. The plot is good, the characters are relatable, and everything is tied together in the end. Hope Harbor is like a contemporary At Home in Mitford; heartwarming and homespun.

[whatsbetterthanbooks · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

3.5 Stars!Sweet, warm, and devout!Starfish Pier is a heartwarming tale that is written well and does a beautiful, sensitive job of showcasing the highs and lows of living with Spina Bifida. Unfortunately for me, I felt it tackled a few too many moral and ethical issues within the one book, such as pro-choice, military violence and assisted suicide that bogged it down a little too much for me to enjoy it as much as I would have liked.

[coverloverbookreview · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This setting (Hope Harbor) is so easy to sink into and get comfortable, and the characters are unique and interesting. They have opposing views on important matters, which makes their relationship feel authentic and not cookie-cutter. Thank you, LibraryThing, for my complimentary copy through the early-reviewers program!

[gincam · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I love the "Hope Harbor Series" from author Irene Hannon. I have enjoyed each book so much, and I always look forward to upcoming entries in the series. "Starfish Pier" (Book Six) is the story of a school teacher and a former military man who find themselves attracted to one another despite their differing opinions on important social issues. Holly Miller moved to Hope Harbor for a fresh new start, and she enjoys the quiet lifestyle of the beautiful little town on the Oregon Coast. Steven Roark left his military career behind and relocated to Hope Harbor when his sister-in-law sent out a plea for help with his younger brother, Patrick, who is struggling with a drinking problem. A year later, Steven is doing well with his charter fishing business, but he has not been able to make a breakthrough with his brother. Holly and Steven meet when she is seeking donations for the local "Helping Hands" volunteer organization. At first, he puts her off, but Fate has other plans, and with a nudge from the mystic town sage, Charley--also an artist and masterful fish taco maker--and his seagull buddies, Gladys and Floyd, Steven and Holly find themselves enjoying each other;s company. However, they each have their own personal issues to resolve, and they still must find common ground to work together for the good of the community. With a leap of faith, and hopeful hearts, can they find a deep and lasting love and a bright future? Highly recommended for lovers of charming inspirational contemporary romance.Book Copy Gratis Revell Books via Library Thing

[milibrarian · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This newest addition to the Hope Harbor series will be enjoyed by Hannon's fans. Following the formula of the earlier novels, characters from the previous books reappear in minor roles, while the major characters are new, allowing each book to be enjoyed on its own.Holly Miller is the new first grade teacher, and while volunteering for a local charity meets Steven Roark, a former Delta Force sniper turned fisherman. Both try to deny their attraction to each other; they are busy with their own lives and problems. Holly's parents are overprotective, and her new neighbor wants to die. Steven wants to help his alcoholic brother and his family, as well as has secrets in his past which make him hesitant to pursue any relationships.In addition to the romance, this book also explores topics such as assisted suicide, abortion, alcoholism, and life with a disability or disease. A good addition to the series for those who enjoy the formula.

[koalamom_1 · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

None of us is perfect. We all have flaws, characteristics we don't like and figure non one will like us because of them - even someone we are beginning to love intensely. This is what it was like for Holly and Steven in this story. Slowly throughout the book their stories come to light and after careful thought and prayer decisions are made.While the book is part of a series, I found this story to be eminently stand alone. As I have not read the first five books, I don't know what the common thread is, though I have a feeling about that, but the book can definitely be read without the others, though I may go back sometime and read them.