Irene Hannon takes us back to the delightful coastal town of Hope Harbor in “Pelican Point” — a town she herself describes as a place “where hearts heal … and love blooms.”
Dr. Ben Garrison, an army orthopedic surgeon, finds he has inherited, of all things, a lighthouse from his grandfather. As he returns to the town of his childhood memories, Ben must come up with a plan to get rid of the dilapidated lighthouse. But when he meets plucky Marci Weber, the owner and editor of the local newspaper, he quickly realizes he’s in a battle — a battle for the town’s beloved structure, and a battle for his heart.
As each must get over past traumas dealing with stalkers, including one with a dangerous vendetta, Ben and Marci find their feelings toward each other growing.
Together, can they come up with a plan to save the town’s beloved lighthouse, and can they find to a way to safely grow their relationship? And what steps can they take to help the struggling couple living next door to Ben — Marci’s assistant Rachel and her husband Greg, recovering from an IED explosion.
Irene Hannah once again does an exemplary job of creating a lovely romantic story with just a touch of suspense and drama. She also brilliantly crafts her characters, making them relatable and allowing the readers to drift further and further into their lives and stories. Although both Marci and Ben have their insecurities and flaws, they are both incredibly strong and full of moxie. Rachel’s and Greg’s trials will hit home with many who are struggling in their marriages. And the delightful Charley the fish taco guy (who is so much more than just a taco guy) makes a return, as well as the adorable duo — seagulls Gladys and Floyd.
As well as great characters, “Pelican Point” is also filled with many gems. It reminds us to live everyday and take nothing for granted; sometimes we need to exhibit tough love; we should always do the right thing, and want to do the right thing; “God’s help desk is always open”; and positive change can come out of bad experiences … it’s up to us how we react to them.
And of course there is all the symbolism of the lighthouse itself — light in a dark world, safety, security, rescue and hope.
The next Hope Harbor installment is due in April 2019. I cannot wait!
Five stars out of five.
Revell, a division of Baker Publishing Group, provided this complimentary copy for my honest, unbiased review.
“Pelican Point” (Hope Harbor series, #4) by Irene Hannon