One of the things I love the most about Irene Hannon’s books is that there is always something more than just a nice romantic story. Her writing is filled with hope and strong Christian messages. For me, her books always inspire and challenge which is one of the reasons I love them so much.

Ashley and Jon’s story has so many layers. Of course, I love the romance and the development of their relationship, but I love the growth and depth so much more. I really enjoyed the fact that this story wasn’t just about Ashley and Jon, but also included Rose. There were so many powerful lessons and messages shown through these three characters.

If you love stories with strong messages of hope and reminders of God’s love, then you are going to enjoy this book. Yes, it is part of a series, but all of the books can be read as standalones. Though, I do recommend them all.

There is something magical about the town of Hope Harbor. You will become a part of the town and the wonderful people who live there. And you will hope that one day you might have friends as amazing as the ones who reside there. This is the second book I have read in the Hope Harbor series and I am completely addicted, I need to read them all! The bonus is that you do not need to read them in order, they are fine as stand alone novels.

Windswept Way literally swept me away into Ashley’s life and I finished the book in one day. Hannon brings the reader straight into the town of Hope Harbor and makes them feel like they are a part of it all. I loved Charley with his quiet wisdom and gentle concern for others. The two pastors who play golf together once a week. Rose and her mysterious and reclusive background. And Jon with his scars, the ones hidden and the ones in plain sight. Hannon writes contemporary Christian fiction romance in a beautiful way. Readers will fall in love with the town of Hope Harbor and all of its residents. The gentle weave of faith is the perfect balance to this emotional story of moving past heartbreak and loss. If you are looking for a reading getaway that shares a heartfelt and poignant story, Windswept Way is a must read for you. I received a copy of this book for free; all thoughts and opinions are my own.

Another fantastic “Hope Harbor” novel! I’m pretty sure I have read all 9 books now upon release, although they can be read as stand alone books and not in order. I love that Charley, his taco stand, the seagull couple Floyd and Gladys, and 2 pastors Father Murphy and Reverend Baker all continue to join us for every Hope Harbor story.

I loved getting to know Rose, Ashley and Jonathan as they renovated the Edgecliff house together. I loved the imagery of the historic house and the love that Ashley had for Rose and the history of the house. I liked getting to know them and seeing them grow and stretch in their friendships with each other and with others in town.

I loved this sweet, contemporary romance fiction and highly recommend this series and author!

I received a copy of this book complimentary for blog and social media review. All opinions are my own.

Windswept Way is one of Irene Hannon's best books yet! I admired Ashley for buying a mansion on the Oregon coast known as Fitzgerald's Folly with her inheritance from her father despite her mother's disapproval! One of the first scenes involves Ashley arriving at the house and being met by a chainsaw welding man with a mask covering his face! What a beginning! It turns out that the landscaper, Jon, is a wounded veteran who wears the mask to hide his scars after his former fiance vomited when she first saw him. You will love the story of how Jon learns to accept his scars and open himself up to people and love. I recommend this story of love and acceptance. I read Windswept Way through Net Galley. This is my honest opinion.

I am so glad the author has decided to continue this series. It is one of my favorites. A perfect women's fiction book that has all you need compassion, romance, a new start in life, and a beautiful lesson all while being inspirational but not preachy. I have read so many in this series and I love meeting up with the new characters and the familiarity of the same characters through out the series.
I especially enjoy Taco guy Tony. He's full of compassion and a philosopher at heart. The seagulls too, though I can't remember their names. They are in the books too and I enjoy them. Rose is thought of as a reclusive character but she is smart as a whip and very talented as well. She has a heart of gold. I fell in love with the descriptions of her "haunted house."
Jonathan Gray is a character that has his defenses' up after a battlefield injury left him physically scared. He doesn't feel worthy of love but when an attractive woman asks for his help managing some items on the property he deals with his defense's start to crumble. Such a beautiful and poignant writing. An overlooking of the outer and seeing the beauty within story.
Highly recommended.

Pub Date 04 Apr 2023
I was given a complimentary copy of this book.
All opinions expressed are my own.

Things weren't going well for Ashley Scott, a historian. She lost her job and caught her boyfriend cheating on her. It was time for a change. She and her father had vacationed at Hope Harbor in Oregon, and she had so many good memories that she had maintained a subscription to the local paper. This was how she found out that Rose, the elderly reclusive owner of a historic estate, was looking for a partner to oversee renovations and to open the property to the public. A deal was struck and a partnership was formed. Jonathan Gray, the owner of a local landscape company, was hired to take care of restoring the grounds.
The author skillfully interweaves three separate lives to create an inspiring and uplifting story. Rose, an octogenarian, has had much tragedy in her life. For decades she has lived as a recluse and believed she was content with this. Her partnership with Ashley begins to change her life. If new life can be breathed into her home, can the same be true for her? Jon, a scarred veteran has spent years trying to cover his disfigurement and with valid reason. He knows all too well how people react to his appearance. He, too, believes the life he has created for himself is good enough. But he is self admittedly lonely. After meeting Ashley, he begins to wonder if she can look past the obvious and see the person inside.
The author does not back away from tough issues. There is great character development. The engaging characters are presented with a full spectrum of realistic emotions. This well written story is packed with emotion and the hope of second chances. It is well worth reading. Highly recommended.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell through NetGalley. The opinions expressed in this review are my own.

Title: Windswept Way

Author: Irene Hannon


Ch: 28 plus epilogue


Pg: 352


Series: Hope Harbor book 9


Genre: contemporary Christian Romance


Rating: 5 stars


Publisher: Revell


I have to say Windswept away by Irene Hannon is my favorite book in the Hope Harbor series. Jon and Ashley were definitely my favorite couple. I got a bit a Beauty and the beast vibes from the story. And of course, something in the story confirmed it for me. Ashley wants a fresh start while restoring a historic home to its former glory. While Jon is a wounded warrior that wants to make a success of his landscaping business. Neither are looking for romance or a relationship, but God has other plans.


I also enjoyed meeting Rose. She was the sweetest and I feel like she became a grandma figure to Ashley. And there’s nothing like Charle’s wisdom. As well as the friendship between Reverend Baker and Father Murphy that somehow works. And just like previous Hope Harbor novels it’s like visiting with old friends.


This was a sweet romance that not only romantic love but the love between friends and the love God has for his children. As well as showing how God can bring good from evil.



I received a copy of this book from the publisher through netgalley. I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

I received a copy of this book from the publisher as part of a blog tour I was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine alone.

Scars. Everyone has them. Some can be seen. Others can't. Ashley, Rose, and Jon have them. I have had them. I am sure you have, too.

This story shows how these scars impact the choices we make and how we live our lives.

Ashley just broke up with a boyfriend. Her job was gone. What will she do now? She took a leap of faith and bought an alleged haunted house. She discovered that taking this one step changed not only her life but also those around her.

I loved seeing the changes everyone went through after Ashley moved to Hope Harbor.

Irene Hannon provides me with so much enjoyment every time a new book of hers comes out.

I received this book from Revell Reads to review.

Ashley Scott comes to Hope Harbor on the coast of Oregon to work at a historic mansion as a wedding and event planner. She befriends the mansion's owner, Rose, who is an elderly recluse. When she meets the new landscaper, Jon, she feels a connection with him, but he is a war veteran who has physical scars -- and a great wariness of relationships. Windswept Way explores Ashley's new life in this small town and her tentative friendship with Jon.

I wanted to read this novel because I enjoyed an earlier book in the Hope Harbor series. I love small town fiction, and Hope Harbor is a charming town - complete with friendly business owners, neighbors who care, and two clerics (one Protestant, one Catholic) who are best friends. It is enjoyable to spend time in this little town via this series.

Ashley is a likable protagonist - warm and kind, with great compassion for others. Her caring helps Rose open up to others and also makes a real difference in Jon's life. Ashley and Jon's romance is sweet and moving, as he is truly emotionally as well as physically scarred by his experience at war.

I have enjoyed the books I've read in this series and need to go back and read the other books as well. I also look forward to the next chapter in this series. I recommend Windswept Way for fans of small town settings, sweet romance, and comforting, life-affirming fiction.

This story was heartwarming and included a beautiful message about not judging by what we see, but to always remember there is more to a story or person. Especially in a world today where appearances are emphasized and where we forget what really matters is the heart.

I enjoyed my revisit in Hope Harbor and that my favourite scene played out on Blackberry Beach, which is still a favourite book in this series.

The author handled the mysteries around Rose well and revealed the story at the right moments.

The struggle Jon faced felt realistic and his fears made sense. Ashley was a great leading lady to love from the start and to love.

I also loved how different people at different times spoke to Jon, but basically delivered the same message.

*I received a complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.*

This was a nice continuation of the Hope Harbor series. Ashley wants to convert an old house into a wedding/ conference center. She is a very focused person and has never really taken time to enjoy life. She hires Jonathon to help with landscaping renovations. But why does he always stay in the shadows. Jonathon has as many scars on the inside as he does on the outside. This is a good story about overcoming your insecurities and discovering what is really important in life. We also get to revisit some residents that are the focus of other Hope Harbor books.

This is a good book and I recommend to all who enjoy a lazy afternoon read.

I was given this book by Revell Publishing via NetGalley in exchange for an honest review. I was not compensated in any way.

“Welcome to Hope Harbor - where hearts heal … and love blooms”

I LOVED this story. We follow Ashley, who moves to Hope Harbor after her life falls apart in search of a dream opportunity. And Jon, a scarred war veteran, who believes himself too damaged to ever be loved. This is a beautiful story, full of hope, healing and Gods love and grace.

I haven’t read all of the Hope Harbour series but it was nice to see characters I recognise and love from previous books.

Definitely recommend.

Thank you to NetGalley UK for a free ebook in exchange for an honest review.

Windswept Way
Irene Hannon
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Ashley Scott's love for historic properties causes her to partner with a reclusive octogenarian to restore a seaside manor in Oregon to its former glory. Her plans for Edgecliff to be used for weddings and other events are well received by the community, but she'll need the help of Jonathan Gray to pull it all together. Though a gifted landscaper, Jonathan prefers to stay in the shadows rather than compromise the solitary life he has chosen since returning from active duty.

This was our 9th visit to Hope Harbor with Hannon’s latest book. Returning to a series time and again gives an endorsement of an author’s creation of a beloved town with relatable characters. This story brought a new element into the series with a war veteran disfigured by an explosion. It brought to the forefront what we value most, physical appearance or internal character. Windswept Way took us on a journey confronting prejudice, vanity, loneliness, criticism, seclusion, and ultimately using the gifts God has given us.

We received an advance copy from the publisher. This is our honest review.

I loved returning to the idyllic Hope Harbor! This was a gentle and sweet book. I loved the setting and the characters. Irene Hannon expertly introduced a new cast of characters while still bringing in favorites from other Hope Harbor books. This book can be read as a standalone, although the cameos make more sense after reading the rest of Irene Hannon's Hope Harbor series.
I loved the themes in this book: of true beauty, acceptance of self and others, and the need for community, to name a few.
This was a a sweet read, I'd rate G for kissing.

Enjoyed this beautiful, touching romance filled with second chances and hope! This is my first book by Irene Hannon and won’t be my last! I loved the little town of Hope Harbor and its charming inhabitants. I wasn’t sure what to expect at first, and thought it was going to be a mystery, but was soon pulled in to the story of a young woman seeking a way to use her inheritance to turn a gorgeous mansion on the Oregon coast into a wedding & event venue. It’s a delightfully woven tale of romance, second chances, faith, and friendship.

This story beautifully illustrates the idea of renovation not just for the mansion, but the three main characters featured. Rose the elderly mansion’s owner is a recluse who has shut herself off from the world because of her husband’s misdeeds. Ashley is a bubby, delightful young woman with a degree in historic preservation and architectural history. She seizes the opportunity to partner with Rose and transform the mansion into the perfect event venue. However, Ashley is also recovering from a betrayal and broken heart.

Jonathan owns a landscaping business and partners with Ashley to restore the grounds, but similarly to Rose, hides himself from the world. He was wounded in Kandahar and carries terrible scars both physically and emotionally. The impact these three strangers has on each others’ lives is inspiring, and for Ashley and Jonathan, perhaps a second chance at love.

I loved these characters! Rose was full of surprises and hidden talents. I loved all the mentions of music and could literally hear it in my head. There were a lot of mentions of the Phantom of the Opera which was somewhat fitting as Ashley is the muse who inspires Jonathan to venture out and take a chance. Unlike the ill-tempered wounded phantom, Jonathan is a kind, loving man who extends a great deal of patience and understanding to everyone but himself. I loved the way his scars were realistically dealt with and the message of “it’s what’s on the inside that counts.” Ashley is the catalyst for change and brings with her lots of sunshine and contagious enthusiasm.

It was an enjoyable story and I look forward to reading the other books in the series. Recommend to contemporary Christian fiction, and chick lit fans. I received an advanced complimentary copy from the publisher. All opinions are completely my own and provided voluntarily.

I love the Hope Harbor series by Irene Hannon. Windswept Way is the ninth book in the series but can be read as a standalone. I have read the series out of order (I still need to read book 2), but it has not hindered my enjoyment.

I enjoyed reading Ashley and Jon's story and was rooting for them to have their happily ever after. They both have obstacles that stand in the way of a relationship. It was interesting to see a bit of a Beauty and the Beast vibe. I loved seeing some "old" characters and meeting new ones! I loved the addition of Rose to the story and seeing her blossom. I imagine it must be hard to keep a storyline going through nine stories. However, Hannon does a great job producing fresh content for each book while staying true to Hope Harbor and seeing all the other couples we have rooted for throughout this series.

I am looking forward to reading the next book (coming next year) and going back and reading the second book.

Thank you to Revell and Net Galley for the opportunity to read this book. I was not required to provide a positive review. All thoughts and opinions are entirely my own.

Windswept Way by Irene Hannon was a phenomenal read. This book once again solidifies that she is a rock star in Christian women's fiction. I read this book in one day.
She created such an amazing community in Hope Harbor. You get so invested in the characters that you just have to know how it is going to end. She creates characters that you want to know and a community you want to be a part of.
Jon was such an amazing hero. She teaches us such a lesson as to how we treat people that look different than us.
Rose was also a favorite of mine even though she was a secondary character. Hannon was able to add some delightful plot surprises around Rose.
I highly recommend this novel. It was truly a delight to read. Hope Harbor is a community you want to escape into. If it was real, it would be on my bucket list to visit and try Charlie's tacos.

Traveling to Hope Harbor is always a treat! The latest installment in the contemporary romance series, Windswept Way, is another outstanding book by Irene Hannon. The setting of the novel is again the Oregon coast with its lovely views of sea stacks, circling seagulls, and the welcoming town. Windswept Way introduces two residents and a newcomer to the reader. Octogenarian Rose has had a lot of knocks in her life. Her family home is more than retreat, it is a safe haven from prying eyes and media attention. Jon has been wounded physically, but also emotionally, as he battled back from sever injuries suffered as a soldier. He too hides from the world. Both are vulnerable in similar ways. Enter Ashley, a vivacious and optimistic woman who befriends both. Her empathy and caring spirit are hard to resist. She’s been wounded in a lesser way than Rose and Jon, but she seeks to understand and help their healing. As always, Hannon inserts favorite characters into the narrative — they add a great deal of color to the book, but also wise words. While there is romance in the air, it develops slowly and naturally. This is a stranger to friend to more story that builds throughout the book. While most readers will not have undergone the physical and emotional trauma that the main characters experienced, they will find connections to the themes of betrayal and resulting vulnerability. All the characters are Christians, with some firm in their faith, while others feel God is a long way off. I liked the how the community of believers supports each other.

Windswept Way is the ninth book in the series! I think it is the best so far. It can easily be read as a standalone, but I recommend starting from the beginning. Nine wonderful novels to read — how great is that?!

Recommended.

Audience: adults

I have loved each and every one of the Hope Harbor series, and Hannon's newest release in this series touched my heart in such an amazing way. All of our favorite characters are back in town, and we get to meet some new ones as well. Charlie, of course, is back spreading his wisdom, faith, and goodness; along with his favorite animal friends: seagulls Lloyd and Gladys, the dolphin and the seal, all of whom act like humans more than animals.

New to Hope Harbor, Ashley Scott has decided to go into partnership with Hope Harbor resident, Rose, to turn her huge oceanside home into an event center to cater weddings and social activities. Rose has been a hermit for many years, but will Ashley open up new avenues that will cause Rose to reenter life once again? Jonathan Gray, neighbor to Rose, has opened up his own landscaping business; but he hides behind his sunglasses, mask and scarf due to a horrible military accident. Will Ashley also bring new life to Jon?

Filled with a wonderful faith base, Hannon deals with several topics in her newest book. Loneliness, reclusiveness, self-doubt, and psychological problems due to traumatic scarring all play a role in this incredibly well written story. This book would make a remarkable movie along with each of Hannon's other Hope Harbor novels.

**I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. Opinions are mine alone. I was not compensated for this review.

Huge, contented sighs escape my lips as I return to the sights, sounds, and smells of the charming, small town ambience of Hope Harbor—boats gently bobbing in the marina, planters filled with colorful flowers lining the sidewalk, quaint shops with bright awnings, and the savory aromas of Charley's food truck.

History lover, Ashley Scott, arrives in Hope Harbor to buy Edgecliff—a haunted Victorian mansion—and on her first visit runs into a masked, tall, muscular man wielding a chain saw. Not a great meet-cute, that's for sure! When Ashley hires the reclusive, enigmatic, Jon Gray to landscape Edgecliff, they both learn some valuable, insightful life lessons...courtesy of our old Hope Harbor friend, Charley, and two humorous, bickering clergyman.

What a beautiful, well-written story! I'll admit to shedding a few tears in spite of myself. How cruel people can be!—but so very thankful for the Ashleys and Charleys of this world who bring light into people's lives and have the amazing ability to see beyond physical attributes to the heart!

"But in a town with the name of Hope Harbor, perhaps anything was possible."

*I received a complimentary ARC of this book from NetGalley via the publisher and was under no obligation to write a positive review.*