Sunrise Reef is part of the wonderful Hope Harbor series. You can read it as a stand-alone novel or in the order of the series. I love this series! The characters are so real and wonderful. They have struggles, but they’re just so real and pull you into their lives. The setting. Oh my. The setting seems magical. I’d love to visit.

This novel takes us along on the journey of Bren. It starts with a fire in her rental and her not knowing where she’s going to live while that gets fixed. Another wonderful town resident offers her his guest cottage. When his wife was alive, they’d rent it out.

At first, she doesn’t want to accept, but then she does. She’s a bit of a loner. Not that she does it too intentionally, but more like life has taught her that it’s the way to go.

Oh, and Noah!
When he shows up in the story, I cried. Not tears of joy, mind you, those were definitely tears of laughter. So comical. Glad it wasn’t me, but maybe he’d take comfort in the shared tears.

Charley is and has ever been one of my favorites. He’s in this one with his seagulls too and you’re going to love him. Don’t worry though you can read this on it’s own and not feel lost. But then you’re going to binge read the rest of hte novels as well because you won’t want to miss out on anything.

I loved the addition of the character of Emma. A teenage girl in need of something or someone. And Bren is stepping up to fill that role. You’re going to love this novel. I guarantee it. If not, come back and let’s chat, and I’m sure I know of another book you’ll love. Though I don’t expect that to happen.

I have voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from JustRead Publicity Tours. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. I was not required to write a positive review, nor was I compensated in any other way. All opinions expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the FTC regulations.

Sunrise Reef by Irene Hannon is book 11 in the Hope Harbor series. It was a good story, though admittedly not my favorite of the series. Bren Ryan, happily settled in Hope Harbor among kind neighbors and beautiful surroundings, focuses on healing her heart and embracing a full life without expecting to find love. I appreciated how Bren’s past made her more compassionate and willing to help those facing hard times — she could truly relate to their struggles.
There’s also a secondary storyline with Emma, who leaves home at 18 and works hard to build a stable life in hopes of gaining custody of her younger brother. I really enjoyed her determination and heart.
It might take a little time to warm up to Noah. At first, he comes across as judgmental, overly protective of his father, and suspicious of almost everyone — especially Bren. I even found myself wondering: would he have fallen for Bren if she hadn't changed her hair color or if she had only been a café worker?
That said, the first meeting between Bren and Noah was hilarious — I could totally picture it playing out. And I completely related to Bren’s attempt at starting a running routine — I’ve been there too!
It’s always a joy to return to Hope Harbor and, of course, to Charlie’s taco truck. While there were elements and characters in Sunrise Reef that I really appreciated, there were also parts I struggled with.
I would recommend Sunrise Reef, if you enjoy Irene’s writing and been reading the series. If this is your first book by Irene know that you might enjoy the storylines of the other books better.
Kissing only

Sunrise Reef by Irene Hannon – An enjoyable visit to Hope Harbor

I enjoy Irene Hannon’s books, and looked forward to reading her newest novel is Sunrise Reef, the 11th book in the Hope Harbor series.

Bren Ryan has made Hope Harbor her home. She loves the beauty of the town, the friendly people, and lovely kind neighbors who are always ready to help one another. Her life is full, but her heart is closed to romance and she has no expectation of finding love. Bren continues to try to mend her hurting heart and be content with what she has. Romance is not on her radar, especially after the unpleasant accidental meeting of Noah Ward. Bren has a heart for those who are going through a rough patch in their lives. That why she reaches out to Emma even though she is passing through town. Noah is not very trusting and is overly protective of his father. He is suspicious of almost everyone he meets, starting with Bren. Will he take the time to enjoy Hope Harbor and get to know some of the townspeople?

It is always enjoyable to return to Hope Harbor and to catch up with old friends in the community. What I liked about Sunrise Reef, I appreciated the kind and caring community where people are willing to help a friend or ever a stranger in need. The people are involved in each other’s lives and seem to think and believe the best about their friends and neighbors. The characters make time for one another. I liked Bren’s open-hearted mindset who was willing to take a risk to help someone she did not know. I appreciated that Emma was motivated and willing to work hard to achieve her goals and help her brother. I liked Fred and his positive, upbeat and trusting mindset.

I struggled with Noah. When his character is first introduced, he is very negative and judgmental about most everyone and everything. His first encounter with Bren was so negative, it was his fault, and he did not apologize. I struggled with Noah going from Mr. Negative to the man who was suddenly finding free-spirited Bren attractive. I did not find that transition in the character believable.

I would have liked to have seen the Christian faith a central part of the story. Kindness and charity played a part in the storyline and how the characters treated one another. But it did not seem hinged and driven by their Christian faith. I would loved to have seen the pastor and priest in the town have a more serious roll. That they would bring biblical wisdom and weightiness in their interactions with their congregations.

While there were elements that I liked and appreciated about Sunrise Reef, there were characters and elements that I struggled with. There seemed to be some worldly views in some of the characters, even those who were Christians.

If you like Irene Hannon’s writing, you may enjoy another visit to the lovely community of Hope Harbor in her newest book Sunrise Reef.

I would like to thank Revell Publishers and NetGalley for the opportunity to read a complimentary copy of Sunrise Reef by Irene Hannon. I was under no obligation to give a favorable review.

Sunrise Reef is a great testimony to Irene Hannon’s skill. Not many authors can keep readers coming back to the eleventh book in a series, but this one is every bit as great as the very first visit to Hope Harbor.

This time we have barista Bren who has built a quiet but happy life from a shattered past. Unfortunately her birthday starts with her being made temporarily homeless until cafe a patron invites her to use his guest house. The arrangement works out well until the buttoned up son of said patron arrives unexpectedly. What follows is one of the best meet cutes in the history of fiction. Seriously.

CPA Noah has a schedule to keep and chafes at his father’s relaxed attitude to growing older. Only when two major needs arise, does he start to learn the value of community, which is lacking in Noah’s big city life.

As ever with a visit to Hope Harbor, the secondary story is as touching as the main plot and again Hannon did not disappoint with Bren getting to pay forward kindness she’d be shown when down on her luck. Healing and love start to grow from the troubles and lead to several excellent happy endings. I highly recommend the whole series.

I received a copy of Sunrise Reef from the publisher via NetGalley. The views are all my own.

Sunrise Reef is book 11 in Irene Hannon’s Hope Harbor series and this book is another winner! I have absolutely loved reading this series and highly recommend any/all of these clean Christian fiction books.

I have loved getting to know the new characters in each story and of course the repeat characters in Hope Harbor Oregon like seagulls Floyd & Gladys, Charley the taco guy, and the two bickering priests. They add such warmth and friendliness to the town!

I liked getting to know Bren, Noah, Emma as the main characters and we see how kindness, faith, and patience can go a long way with understanding and helping others. Judging others was another good element in this story which I have always found important. The characters were relatable and the story line kept my interest from chapter to chapter. I loved this heartwarming story about faith, family and love. You don’t want to miss out reading this story!

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions and views expressed are my own.

Sunrise Reef is the first book I have read written by Irene Hannon and I look forward to reading some more and visiting Hope Harbor again. This is part of a series but can be read as a standalone.

The character development is good. I loved getting to know Bren and seeing how she has overcome her past and works towards helping others. Getting to know Emma and see her struggles trying to get her brother. Noah has a lot of growth as well. Having to figure out if he wants to be married to his work or if can he open up his heart to someone.

The setting was perfect and cute. I loved being in this little town.

The relationship between Noah and Bren was cute and perfect, low-spice, just the way I like it.

Irene Hannon did a great job intertwining faith throughout the novel.

*I received a complimentary copy from the author and voluntarily chose to review it. All opinions are my own.

Sunrise Reef is the first novel that I’ve read in the Hope Harbor series, and it’s one that quickly captured my heart and felt like a cozy literary hug.

Despite this being the first book that I’ve read in this series, I didn’t feel lost at all but instead felt the warmth that emanates from Hope Harbor from the start. It’s hard not to love the big-hearted, eccentric Bren Ryan. Though there’s a backstory that takes a bit to uncover, it’s clear that she has a heart of gold. We start the story with her celebrating her 30th birthday with the best of intentions, but life happens, as it often does, and what at first seems like a burden turns out to be the biggest blessing.

This is one of those novels that is a perfect beach read or anytime you want a literary escape without the subject matter being too deep. A picturesque setting, characters with drive and ambition that are relatable, and a sweet happily-ever-after help this story flow seamlessly.

Charley, with all of his glimmering nuggets of wisdom, was some of my favorite scenes, and some of the wisdom spoken to the characters pierced my own heart, prompting me to self-reflect about my own precarious situation. Gotta love gaining wisdom and insight from fiction.

This is the first novel I’ve had the opportunity to read from this series, and I can assure you it will not be my last. Though there have been many novels that predate this title, I never once felt lost or overwhelmed in the narrative. On the contrary, Sunrise Reef enveloped me like a warm hug, and I enjoyed every moment I spent in Hope Harbor.

Noah is visiting Hope Harbor visiting his dad for one reason: to convince him to move back to St Louis to be close to him following the death of Noah's mum. But his plans to borrow an unoccupied guest cottage for the first night rather than disturbing his dad go sideways when it turns out to be occupied after all - somewhat disastrously. And the conditions of that occupancy - low price, unvetted tenant with rainbow hair - prove to Noah that his dad needs the support Noah can only provide in St Louis. Somehow, though, as he gets to know Bren, he starts to see a different side of life: the side that gives without expecting to receive, and without constantly looking for things to go wrong. However, whatever he might think of her, it's clear nothing can really happen between them, since she's unwilling to leave her haven and he's wedded to his job in St Louis - right? Or will they both learn to see the beauty beneath the surface and what really matters in life?

A delightful addition to the series. I always love visiting Hope Harbor (which lives up to its name beautifully), and this was no exception. With interesting, 'real' characters, inspiring lessons for them (and me) to learn as they go though life, a quirky and lovable cast of secondary characters, thought-provoking dialogue, humorous situations and a deeply satisfying ending, what more could one want? I really enjoyed getting to know Noah and Bren, not to mention Emma, and was thrilled to see Bren and Noah finally get their happy ending. In fact, I'm hoping Emma will get her own story in a future book, because I enjoyed getting to know her a bit and I want more! Charley's wisdom is a great addition, too - he'd be an intriguing (and possibly slightly scary at times) person to have around. All in all, a great read, completely standalone though sharing some characters across the series - highly recommended.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

4.5 stars

I fell head over heels for Hope Harbor way back when I read the first book in Irene Hannon’s long-running series ten years ago, and it still remains my very fave fictional town to visit, eleven books later. There’s something so special about this town and its close knit community, not to mention Charley who provides a dose of divinely-appointed wisdom with his fish tacos. In fact, my excitement each time I open a new Hope Harbor book is due in large part to getting to hang out with Charley again on the pages. But it only takes me a paragraph or two to become just as invested in the new story Hannon is telling and the new characters who will undoubtedly find home, hope, and healing – and of course romance – in Hope Harbor, too.

In Sunrise Reef, we learn more about creative & warmhearted Bren’s story and her less-than-ideal family of origin. Which is why the family she’s built for herself in Hope Harbor means so much and why she never wants to leave. It also makes her more empathetic to other people who need a helping hand, like young Emma who finds herself unexpectedly stranded in town by a broken-down car and nowhere to stay. If this isn’t your first visit to Hope Harbor, you’ll likely be thinking to yourself right about now, “Ah here comes a divine appointment,” and you’d be right! I really loved this subplot – not only in how Bren extends her a lifeline and a friendship but also in how Emma becomes part of Hope Harbor just as it becomes part of her.

But Emma isn’t Bren’s only God-orchestrated meeting in Sunrise Reef, though Bren’s first encounter with Noah feels (to him at least) like it originated in a place quite a bit fierier than Heaven. LOL. This meet cute is hilarious and awkward and oh boy I felt sorry for Noah … at least until he started behaving like a stick in the mud and I wanted to shake him a little bit. Don’t worry though, my irritation with him was mostly short-lived (with a couple of exceptions) as Hope Harbor and Bren both start to get under his skin in the best of ways. The chemistry between Noah and Bren is wonderful, but the friendship they build while trying to ignore that chemistry was even sweeter to me. I also adored Noah’s dad and especially his not-so-subtle hints nudging Noah in Bren’s direction.

Bottom Line: Sunrise Reef by Irene Hannon delivers a picturesque story from beginning to end, the rocky obstacles along the way making the final vista all the more meaningful and full of grace. Hope Harbor shines in this eleventh installment as much for the generous heart of its community as for its gorgeous coastal views and quaint charm. And of course, its fish taco stand, or rather the man who runs it. I loved watching Emma – and even Noah – discover how special a town this is, and I had fun getting to spend time with Bev again as well. Bren and Noah each have some lessons to take away from this story – perhaps you do too – and the icing on the cake is their opposites-attract, buttoned-up CPA meets creative free spirit, romance. I am excited that there’s a twelfth Hope Harbor book on the horizon, and I am rooting for at least twelve more!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.)

I loved returning to the community of Hope Harbor. We had seen Bren in previous books but knew little about her, in this one we really get to know her. There are also new characters introduced along with old faves. I was able to relate to Noah so much, the way he questioned certain actions made by individuals and approached his career were very relatable. Fred, Noah's dad, made me laugh at his matchmaking attempts. As we get to know Bren we learn about the challenges she has been through in life but she has a huge heart and the way she treated Emma was inspiring. Emma was someone I cared about quickly and was glad that her and Bren crossed paths. The community taught Noah quite a bit and he comes to realize that his career isn't everything. The romance is a slow built, but I loved it and it felt so realistic based on the circumstances. In addition to loving the main characters I also liked Bev, the bookstore owner, who has befriended Bren and is the only one that really knows her story. I could not put this book, I connected so much with the characters and did not want to say goodbye.

Every spring I look forward to a return visit to one of my favorite bookish places — Hope Harbor, Oregon. Irene Hannon’s long running contemporary romance series (11 books!) is so, so good! I love the peaceful setting with its lavender farm, quaint downtown pocket park, the towering sea stacks, lighthouse, and so much more. See, it has truly become a beautiful destination to at least vicariously visit. And the residents are warm, welcoming, sometimes quirky, and always a joy to meet again and again. In the latest book in the series, Sunrise Reef, the theme is the meaning of home. While Hope Harbor appeals to its visitors and residents for a number of reasons, the true test of a real home is the people that inhabit it with you. The main romantic storyline involves a woman with a troubled childhood who has found peace and place and purpose in Oregon. She clings to the idea that she is meant to stay forever. Bren is attracted to Noah and feels like her friendship with him could develop into a lasting relationship if only they lived in her town. I loved how Hannon brings the two together, allowing them to see that home is not a physical location, but people to love and do life with. The secondary storyline involves a young woman who is desperately trying to bring her brother home as well. While Bren and Noah are the focus of the novel, I really loved that storyline.

Small town vibes, lovely characters, strong and insightful themes, and subtle faith messages are part and parcel of the Hope Harbor series. And Irene Hannon does it all so well. Whether you are a frequent visitor or this is your first time in town, you are in for a real treat!

Recommended.

Audience: Adults.

(Thanks to Revell and NetGalley for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

Bren has a past that has helped her achieve her current peace and hope in life. And that came about because of her welcoming in Hope Harbor when she ended up here. She is who she is because of the people surrounding her in her chosen home. And even though many don't see it as ambitious enough, she enjoys the jobs she has chosen. It gives her insight when she notices Emma, who stops in Hope Harbor due to a cranky car and dwindling finances. But Bren offers Emma the hopeful welcome she herself received, as do the others in town.

However, Noah, in town visiting his father, doesn't have the charitable background and is wary of both Bren and Emma. But Hope Harbor works its charm on even this sour spirit and life begins to look different, charming, hopeful.

The story in Hope Harbor is full of joy, even when something difficult comes along, solely because the people are determined to live up the town's name. They are welcoming and helpful to all who come. That is what makes not just this particular book but also this entire series such a beautiful and joyful read. It is worth the read, the time, the story. It continues to live on after the final page because it brings a hopefulness to the reader, as well, encouraging the reader to reach out and do something kind, paying it forward.

Definitely recommend.

I received a copy of the book from the author and have offered feedback of my own choice. All opinions are my own.

Bren has been a recurring character in previous books of this series and I was happy for her to finally have her story told. There had to be something behind her rebellious yet pleasant façade.

Like with most people, Bren was so much deeper than she appeared. This made Noah, who was cynical and great at jumping to conclusions, have to learn some hard lessons while re-evaluating his own life. While Noah was a tough guy to get behind initially, I did grow to like him. I especially loved the way he met Bren. It turned out that he was deeper than he seemed as well.

The sparks that flew between the two were obvious to everyone watching and I really enjoyed when the romance began to deepen between them. Visiting the town of Hope Harbor once again was a fun excursion. Favorite characters showed up in the pages with the mandatory presence of Charley and his famous fish tacos.

I received this book complimentary as a participant of the JustReads reviewer tour. I was not required to give a positive review. All of the opinions I have expressed here are honest and my own.

“A little kindness goes a long way toward smoothing rough paths and healing hearts.”

It’s always a treat to return to Hope Harbor for another of Irene Hannon’s entertaining and inspirational stories. I love the small-town camaraderie and friendships that this talented author creates and the engaging, relatable characters that populate her stories. Sunrise Reef stars spunky Bren Ryan who has finally found a place that feels like home. When CPA Noah Ward comes to town to visit his father, he doesn’t intend to stay long or to be intrigued by Bren.

As Bren and Noah get to know each other better, their relationship starts to change, but can Noah, who lives a fast-paced life in a big city, and Bren, who has found her niche in Hope Harbor, ever make things work out?

In a parallel story, kind-hearted Bren meets a struggling teenager who is stranded when her car breaks down in Hope Harbor. Emma is hoping to find a job and get guardianship of her teenage brother.

It was such fun to mingle with all the residents of Hope Harbor again and feel their support and love for each other. 4.5 stars

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy through JustRead Tours and NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

A wonderful book with depth of characters. A great reminder of God's love and compassion towards me personally. The storyline is great and kept me engaged in the book.

A heartwarming opposites-attract romance, set in the haven that is Hope Harbor.

Bren Ryan is free-spirited and newly settled in Hope Harbor, working as a barista. When the place she is renting suffers an electrical fire, she finds a place to stay in a church member's guest house. Noah Ward is a strait-laced CPA, surprised to find someone staying at his father's normally empty guest house. Despite their differences they find themselves drawn to each other, finding common ground. I liked how they kept running into each other, and how they helped each other see a different side of things, but that they shared a solid faith.

I loved returning to Hope Harbor, seeing many colorful and familiar faces. Heartwarming read, with an engaging romance, great interaction, and solid faith. Life doesn't always go according to our plans, but we can have confidence that things will work out in God's. Highly recommend!

I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

While I didn't love this one as much as I did previous books in the series I did love being back in Hope Harbor. I loved seeing all the local again especially Charley. And while I was glad for Bren to get her own story the romance between her and Noah felt a little forced in someway's and a little forced. However I look forward to book 12 and part of me wants it to be Emma's story I want more of her. I know she was only a secondary character in this one but don't feel like she's done.

I love Hope Harbor, especially Charley, the taco philosopher!

There were so many great characters highlighted in this story including Bren, Emma and Fred. I loved how Fred and Bren went out of their way to help people in need. Noah was a wild card and it was interesting to see his character develop throughout the book!

There are so many places that I want to visit in Hope Harbor but especially the book store and the bakery!

Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the arc. The opinions are my own.

Pure perfection in book form! This is one of my most beloved series, and my yearly trip to Hope Harbor is one of my most anticipated things each year. The stories transcend the pages and I feel like I am part of the community of Hope Harbor. The latest installment which features Bren & Noah was beautifully written and I loved every page of it. A phenomenal read as expected!

Sunrise Reef is book11 in Irene Hannon’s Hope Harbor series. Featured in this story is Bren Ryan, barista at The Perfect Blend and owner of her own cottage calligraphy business. On the morning of Bren’s 30th birthday there’s a series of small misfortunes until the one that necessitates a 911 call. Her older rental home has developed a short and is smoldering. This means a major renovation which will require Bren to move out for as long as two months while her landlord makes the repairs.

Widower Fred Ward is a regular at The Perfect Blend. When he visits that morning he learns cf Bren’s misfortune. Fred, being the kind hearted person that he is, immediately offers Bren the use of his guest house, after all it has sat unused since his wife passed. Hesitant to accept, Fred finally convinces Bren to move in, which she does that afternoon. As nice a gift as the cottage is, her biggest surprise comes in the form of what appears to be a late night break in when Fred’s son Noah uses his key to use the cottage for the night so as not to wake his dad so late, especially when his visit is unexpected. Noah gets a surprise of his own when Bren pulls out the bear spray on her intruder.

With these antics there is a rocky beginning between Bren and Noah which becomes even rockier when Bren invites a stranded teen to stay with her while the teen’s car is being repaired. From these early encounters, it seems that fate keeps throwing Bren and Noah together, creating a convoluted and entertaining plot line.

With several tales woven seamlessly together, Ms. Hannon has written another beautiful novel telling the stories of Hope Harbor residents, old and new. The characters are well written with depth and feeling, the town is a joy to visit, and the stories are always heartwarming and hopeful. I very much enjoyed this novel and the series and do recommend them both!