All Is Bright: A Hope Beach Christmas Novella

By Colleen Coble

A romantic, Christmas wedding at her seaside hotel gives Delilah a chance to shine with her unique gifts. But will her light be snuffed out before the bride and groom say “I do”? 

As manager of the Tidewater Inn, Delilah Carter has been planning a spectacular Christmas wedding for her friends at the grand hotel overlooking the ocean. While picking up still more twinkly lights and some last-minute groceries for the reception dinner, a huge truck runs her off the freezing, wet roads into the dark night. Her car stops just short of an enormous tree and the truck speeds off into the night. Delilah escapes with her life and has almost convinced herself the whole thing was an accident, but then she begins to receive threatening phone calls. With the wedding just hours away, she’s distracted and anxious. Then Sheriff Tom Bourne stops by the inn and volunteers to help.

Tom has always had a soft spot for Delilah, and he’s determined to protect her. But he is pulled away by a bizarre Christmas stunt that has the neighborhood reeling, and Delilah is attacked again.

Will Delilah have to cancel the Christmas wedding at Tidewater Inn? And will Tom’s protection be enough to save Delilah from the shadowy figure looming in the background?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Thomas Nelson
• Release date: Oct 6, 2015
• ISBN: 9781401689988

Colleen Coble

Colleen Coble is the USA TODAY bestselling author of more than seventy-five books and is best known for her coastal romantic suspense novels. Connect with her online at colleencoble.com; Instagram: @colleencoble; Facebook: @colleencoblebooks; X: @colleencoble.

Book preview

ONE

DELILAH CARTER’S BREATH PLUMED IN THE FROSTY AIR AS she cranked up the heater and turned her gray Toyota away from Tidewater Inn. The sun setting over the back of the inn would make a pretty postcard. Delilah had worked here for ten years, and she loved it as if she owned it. It was the only real home she’d had as an adult, and she never wanted to live anywhere else than her little suite on the third floor.

As she drove toward Hope Beach, she lowered the window and waved at Amy and Curtis Ireland putting their surfing equipment in the back of their truck. They waved back as she passed. Only those two would be crazy enough to brave December water temperatures. Even the Outer Banks was chilly this time of year. The temperature was forty-five and was expected to fall to thirty-six tonight.

Curtis’s aunt must be watching the kids. Amy was the local midwife, and she’d married one of the local Coast Guard men. They were raising Curtis’s niece, and they’d adopted a little girl six months ago.

Delilah’s phone rang through the navigation system on the dash, and she hit the button to answer the call from Elin Summerall. You just can’t stand it, can you? I’m on my way to town to get the decorations. Everything is under control. The bride is not supposed to be stressed before the wedding. Relax.

Easy for you to say. Elin’s voice held an edge of strain. The dress doesn’t fit and will have to be taken in. The wedding is only a week away, and there is so much to do! Why on earth did I ever think a Christmas wedding was a good idea? Have you been dieting? Delilah adopted a stern tone. With your heart transplant, you have to make sure you’re eating well.

I’m eating way too much! With so many showers and Christmas parties, I’ve gained five pounds. The bridal shop must have misgauged the sizing. I’ll have to find a seamstress.

Delilah grinned at her friend’s wheedling tone. You know perfectly well I used to work for a bridal shop in Richmond way back when. I’ll do it for you.

You’re a doll, Delilah. Is there anything you can’t do? You run the inn with your hands tied behind your back, soothe guests, cook like Julia Child, and keep us all in line.

Flattery will get you everywhere. Go get a massage or something and calm down. Talk to you later. She ended the call.

Night had quickly fallen even though it was only six. A guest at the inn with car trouble had delayed her, but her friend who ran the craft store had agreed to meet her after hours. Delilah spared a glance at the lovely ocean, ten feet below the road.

She glanced in the rearview mirror. A black truck was bearing down on her. With no lights, it was coming fast, and she veered a bit to the side of the road to let it pass.

She gripped the steering wheel and kept glancing in the rearview mirror. The truck’s visor was down, obscuring the person’s face in the dim twilight. It was a man though, and he sat so tall in the seat that she could see just a bit of a scruffy jaw.

She tapped her brakes just a bit to warn him to slow down, but he edged even closer. She was afraid he would ram her. What on earth? A big curve lay just ahead, and she would have to somehow make the turn without ending up in the ocean’s pounding waves. Her throat closed as she saw the curve grow nearer. Easing off the gas pedal, she tapped her brakes again.

Before she could register the increase in its speed, the truck’s huge chrome bumper struck her from behind. Her car fishtailed as it entered the curve, then the tires tried and failed to find purchase in the shoulder’s soft gravel.

The view of the ocean grew larger in her windshield, and she fought with the wheel to steady the car. It quit careening and began to straighten, but before she could breathe a sigh of relief, another impact rattled her teeth and pushed her car to the edge.

It’s going over the side.

She grabbed the handle and gave it a yank, then pushed the door open enough so she could roll out—too late. Her car left the pavement and she caught a glimpse of movement as it sailed over the edge of the hillside and down the steep slope toward the sea.

She abandoned the idea of trying to get out and steered the car as best as she could to keep it from rolling over. The car plunged into the ocean and a great plume of water washed over her windshield. The water immediately poured in her partially open door, and she held her breath as panic froze her in place.

Just like last time. If she didn’t get out, she would drown just like her parents.

Terror bubbled in her chest, and her fists battered at the window. The water was deep here and so cold that it numbed her limbs. A scream formed in her throat, and she realized she was struggling to get out with her seat belt still fastened. She released it and reached for the handle. She pushed hard to try to open the door far enough to get out, but the force of the water gushing inside held it in place.

She reached for the window control and ran the window down. Water pounded her face, and she took a last deep breath before submerging so she could escape through the window.

As the vehicle dived for the bottom, the strong ocean current tugged at her coat, and she unzipped it so she could swim better. It was so dark she couldn’t tell which

Reviews for All Is Bright

[nancyluebke · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I really enjoyed this Christmas Romance set of 2 books. I received this set as a gift and voluntarily chose to review it. I averaged this rating to 4.7*. These who done it's kept me reading late into the night, to finish it. Both hero's were protective by nature. It's a good thing too.

[whybehave2002 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I love stories that involve Inns and have been to the North Carolina's north shore so was able to imagine myself there. A quick little mystery.

[harley0326 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I do love mysteries and when you put that with a Christmas theme , you have a great book. I loved the two stories that were packed in this book. The characters are well developed and fun to get to know. This author has always written great stories that intrigue me and makes me stay up late into the night to finish the last chapter. This book is no exception. In "All Is Calm" we are introduced to Lauren Everman. She has a passion for horses and when she suspects one is going to be hurt she leaves late at night and hides out at a ranch she went to as a child. Why did Lauren stay at the ranch when she was a child? What secrets does she have? It seems that Brendan Waddell has questions for Lauren. He has found out that she has been accused of a horrible crime and he doesn't fill comfortable with her on the ranch. The ranch is a safe place for foster children and he wants them protected . Will he believe Lauren's story ? Can they work together to solve this mystery? The story moves along at a fast pace, and will bring you a great ending filled with holiday cheer. In "All is Bright" we find Delilah Carter. A very giving woman who is the manager of Tidewater Inn. Delilah is always willing to go the extra mile to mile others. She seems to live a quiet and comfortable life, but that will soon change. As she is driving one day she is suddenly run off the road. Who would want to hurt Delilah? She turns to the Sheriff, Tom Bourne to help her find the person who would intentionally run her off the road. There is one small problem with asking for help from the Sheriff. Delilah is not sure she can trust him. Will she be able to tell him about her past? Is there a connection to her past and the person who ran her off the road? Get ready for a quick ride as this mystery is filled with excitement and intrigue. The stories are good and sometimes a bit rushed but overall a great read for mystery fans. I did notice a theme in both stories thst I found interesting. Both women had secrets from their past and it was hard for them to trust others. How many of us have done the same thing? We keep secrets so we won't get hurt or judged and when these women opened up they found peace and people willing to help. I loved that part of the stories. I'm not sure if the author wrote the stories with that underlying message, but it sure did make me think of how we push people away at times to protect ourselves from unseen harm. I received a copy of this book from The Fiction Guild for an honest review.

[nadinec.keels · Rating: 3 out of 5 stars]

Delilah Carter, manager of the Tidewater Inn, has been busy planning a Christmas wedding for her friends, but someone runs her off the road and into the ocean one night. She tries to downplay it as a mere accident afterwards, but she isn't really buying it, and neither is Sheriff Tom Bourne, the man who's been harboring feelings for Delilah in All is Bright: A Hope Beach Christmas Novella by author Colleen Coble.I've not read any of the Hope Beach novels, and this book includes a lot of characters whose stories I'm sure have already been told. While I figured the brief mentions and appearances of those characters would have been meaningful to me if I'd read the other books, I was only interested in Delilah and Tom's story here.Even with the darker thread of suspense running through this, much of the story was an easy read for me. Because it's clear that Delilah and Tom have got some background together, the development of their relationship doesn't come off as rushed or as if their strengthening emotions are popping out of nowhere.Now, the critical point of danger in the story is a rather obvious setup, more convenient than believable. But the best part of the story for me concerns an awesome Christmas gift that warmed my heart along with the characters.And, yes, the Christmas lights and the homey feel captured on a softly bright evening on the book cover got me to read this novella.

[irenecole · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Poor Delilah! A sweet lady with a tragic past, Delilah loves to take care of others and couldn't possibly have any enemies. Or could she? Someone seems to be out to get her.
This was a quick, fun, read. If you are looking for a bit of mystery and romance with your Christmas cheer this is the book for you.

I received a complimentary copy for review

[judithdcollins · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

A special thank you to Thomas Nelson-Fiction and NetGalley for an ARC in exchange for an honest review. Talented storyteller, Colleen Coble delivers two delightful Christmas holiday novellas in one charming book, All is Calm (Lonestar Series) and All is Bright (Hope Beach Series) —packaged with a beautiful holiday cover, to add some spice to your holidays. For fans of both intriguing mystery, and romantic suspense--with holiday settings. I tend to pick a few Christmas books for the holiday-- with a mix of mystery, romantic suspense, and thrillers, to get you in the mood for the upcoming season. I read the novella back in October; however, with holiday books, I typically wait and post my reviews in December, to keep them fresh in reader’s minds as we approach the season. All is Bright As a big Colleen Coble fan, I have read all the books in the Hope Beach Series (highly recommend), --was excited yo catch up with familiar characters at the coastal Tidewater Inn, from previous books included in All is Bright. Both stories are equally intriguing; however, I probably enjoyed this one more, due the bed and breakfast, the beach setting, the mystery, as well as enjoyed seeing Tom and Delilah finally get together. Even though this is a novella, the suspense and mystery is as captivating as a full length novel. Also a sneak peak for readers of Seagrass Pier (Hope Beach #3) A great story of Elin and Marc. There are many surprises awaiting for Delilah. Bittersweet, she has to face her fears from the past, in order to move on with her future; while allowing others into her personal life. As always, Coble writes with vivid descriptions, drawing you into the picturesque setting, with a nice escape to this coastal seaside town for the holidays and an upcoming wedding. In addition, she includes a reader’s guide and discussion questions for both stories. All is Calm All is Calm was a great introduction for me, not having read any of the Lonestar Series. Also set in an idyllic setting – a ranch in Texas and a haven for many lost souls. We we meet Lauren, who is trying to escape danger (a witness to a murder). She decides Bluebird Ranch is a perfect choice, especially close to Christmas time.She had spent a life-changing summer there twelve years ago when she was seventeen. It was a terrific ranch that paired abused children with abused horses. When she was a foster kid, the place had been the one bright spot for her. There was always a place there for a good horse and a hard worker. She grabs Angel, the horse and leaves.Special Ops, Brendan Waddell always considered the Bluebird Ranch a little piece of heaven, as the Christmas lights welcomes him. He was visiting his old friends - always Uncle Brendan for the children, and offering him some time to recuperate with his injury. Both Brendan and Lauren are looking for a safe haven. He is spending time with an old friend; however, he senses Lauren is running from something. He sees the darkness in her eyes and suffering. He has to find out what is going on. Being in the law enforcement business he has a way of finding out people’s past.Soon he discovers Dustin’s death and the events surrounding Lauren's situation. Lauren just wanted to get Angel away. However, the two hit it off with their own tragedies, for a budding Christmas romance at Bluebird Ranch. A mystery is uncovered with a happy ending.Highly recommend for holiday gifts, or your own guilty reading (double) the pleasure! If you have not read Colleen Coble, an author to follow, and one to add to your reading list.

[alekee_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Colleen Coble has done it again, she keeps me turning the pages until there are no more, and then I can’t wait for her next book.These are novellas from two of previous book settings, the Bluebird Ranch and Tidewater Inn, and yes we have met some of these characters before, so you are in for a real treat.There is romance, weddings, and reuniting with old friends, and of course, danger around each corner, and not know where it is coming from. Who or whom would want to kill these sweet people? It takes awhile to find out, and while there are a few hints along the way, you still keep wondering and hoping no one we love will be murdered.Pick this one up for a time when you want to savor and have a little time for reading, you can read each one in a single sitting, but all can be read alone. Enjoy.I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Thomas Nelson and was not required to give a positive review.

[robin661_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

All is Calm, All is BrightColleen CobleBook Summary: All Is CalmIt’s going to be an unexpectedly romantic Christmas at Bluebird Ranch. Brendan Waddell has always considered Bluebird Ranch a little piece of heaven: an idyllic ranch that pairs abused children with abused horses, run by one of his Marine buddies. Now, it seems just the place to spend Christmas recovering from an on-the-job injury. Lauren Everman first came to the ranch as a foster kid, but now knows it’s the perfect hideout. As the witness to a murder, Lauren needs somewhere to lie low. Her beauty immediately catches Brendan’s attention—but so does her secretive behavior. This Special Ops Intel man knows a woman on the run when he sees one. Can he trust her, or is she putting the ranch at risk? One thing is certain: he’s going to do everything he can to keep her safe so he can see what magic Christmas brings.All Is Bright A romantic Christmas wedding at Tidewater Inn gives Delilah’s unique gifts a chance to shine. But will her light be snuffed out before the bride and groom say “I do”? As manager of the Tidewater Inn, Delilah Carter has been planning a spectacular Christmas wedding for her friend, Elin Summerall. But when Delilah’s car is forced off the road and into the ocean, she finally has to admit that the strange phone calls she’s been receiving lately may be more than just pranks. Sheriff Tom Bourne has always had a soft spot for Delilah, and he’s determined to protect her. He hopes to win her heart by giving her the surprise gift of a lifetime . . . but first he has to make sure nothing happens to her before Christmas Day. It’s the season of miracles. But will both Elin and Delilah get the ones they need this holiday season?Review: All is Calm - A great story about the Lonestar state. I thought originally it was going to be a historical book, but was pleasantly surprised it was modern day. I liked Lauren a lot. The added bonus of Carly and the animals was pleasant. The lead character in most novels have some friends so it was nice that Lauren did too. I was not as sold on Brendan as much. I liked him, but I was not over the moon for him, personally. I do not thing that there was anything in the story to make that so. I just found him to be too good. The mystery was a real thriller. I love a mystery that is involved. Between Lauren’s cousin and her wimpy husband I found that part to be fun. The unravelling of the mystery was the most suspenseful and how it was woven into more of the story than anticipated. A definite story to remember.All is Bright - I like this story the best. It seems to me that some of these novellas put together get better and better or the 2nd story can’t beat the first. This time I read them in reverse order and loved the second best. Delilah was great. She had a lot of challenges and made no fuss over them. Tom was believable and wonderful all in one. I just loved the story and the stalker was a surprise. Not one I would have guessed. The clues were so small that reading the other books, which I did, should have helped me but I missed it. Both stories were fantastic and fun to read. I am so glad I had the opportunity to do so. I would like to thank Net Galley and Thomas Nelson for allowing me to read and review this book in return for a free copy and I was never asked to write a favorable review by anyone.