A cozy mystery set in a small coastal town. I enjoyed the plot and character development, both made the story a quick enjoyable read.

Fortunate Harbor is the first story in the Outer Banks series. This is the first novel by this author that I have read, and I found it to be intriguing, complex, and not quite what I was expecting from the cover description.

Curtis has come home, perhaps not so willingly, but his job places him in this area where the company he works for is building a new resort. The locals really don’t want a big corporation taking over their small town; the management of the resort is up to something no good, with bad decisions and horrible relations with the staff and the local residents. Curtis is stepping into a hornet’s nest, and perhaps he should have known it was possible, but still, the fact that his love from his time living here years ago is a force to be reckoned with, and perhaps not totally on his side.

Fortunate Harbor by Davis Bunn is complicated, intriguing, and a mystery with lots of secrets. I think there is an audience for this story, but sadly, it wasn’t me. While the basic story is good, there are so many characters in the mix, and some unexpected (for the storyline so far) twists and turns that simply didn’t thrill me. I was looking for something I didn’t find, but that’s me. You might love this type of story, so check this one out for yourself.

*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley, and I sincerely thank the author or publishing house for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*

I enjoyed this in part. The beginning was a lot of info, messes and names to contend with. But when it picked up pace, it was interesting.

There were a whole lot of things going on in the book and sometimes it was boring. The blurb, in my opinion, belied the plot of the book.

This was advertised as a romance but it felt more like a legal drama or mystery. There was barely any romance and I did not see the romantic connection between the characters ‘in love’.

The setting was beautifully described and idyllic and will make you want to visit the Outer Banks, North Carolina.

If you love books about small town, corporate takeovers and a dash of romance then you will enjoy this.

The serene setting stole the show in this legal drama with a hint of romance and suspense. It was lovely and moody at the same time, providing the perfect storm for Curtis’s experiences as he traveled back to his seaside home in the Outer Banks of North Carolina, where his past flame still lives, as the developer of a resort. Rae is the attorney trying to prevent any unfortunate changes to her idyllic town. There was the underlying question if these two could move on from the past and embrace the future, and how they could and would throughout the story. I was pleasantly surprised by the suspense and mystery of the plot as the two discovered legends and treasures that could save both the status quo of their hometown and their love. A hypnotic mix of slow-burn suspense, drama and romance.

Davis Bunn’s Fortunate Harbor is a story that takes place on the Outer Banks in North Carolina. The description of the local scenery sounds beautiful and breathtaking. Curtis Gage, one of the main characters, grew up here but moved away at the age of 17. At that time, he was in love with a local girl named Rae Alden. She becomes a lawyer and instead of opting to move away and be a part of a big firm, she decides to stay in town and open her own office. Curtis returns to Fortunate Harbor to improve the area by building and improving on a local hotel. I really believed that the storyline would be about these 2 reuniting but the author surprises us by taking the story in a different direction. The story includes a lot of legal jargon, some dangerous goons and just a bit of romance. The storyline held my interest and it’s one I’d recommend, however I don’t see where it resembles a Nicholas Sparks book at all as is referenced. I’d like to thank Kensington Publishing for accepting my request to read an early copy and NetGalley for the arc. I found it to be an enjoyable read and I’m giving it a 4 star rating.

Thank you @kensingtonbooks for my early copy of Davis Bunn’s new release, FORTUNATE HARBOR, which publishes April 29, 2025.

Reading novels set in coastal beach towns, especially those on the Carolina coasts are a whole SPRING VIBE MOOD and I am here for it.

Rae is an attorney with a lot of potential that went home to her hometown to set up shop. She runs into her HS ex, Curtis. I like Rae’s character a lot. I also liked her support network and her legal prowess. Curtis was aloof, but I did seem to “sorta connect” with him.

Interestingly I did NOT connect with Amiya at all. Not that she was poorly written, I just didn’t for whatever reason. So, there’s approximately half the plotline that felt forced to me with Curtis + Amiya. Their relationship was a business at best and I just didn’t build that connection with them as romantic characters. I also felt like this plot line was competing for Rae’s plot line, which was supposed to be the main plot line, at least I think it was…

I also found myself reading it and thinking, “Wouldn’t Rae be a better fit?” I adored the supporting cast: Emma, the security detail team, HOLDEN….they were all perfect for their roles!

Anyways, I digress. The last few chapters are best, since it works with Rae’s character and IMO sets it up to be a series featuring Rae and the next phase of her life in Fortunate Harbor. At least that is the novel I am hoping comes next!

Thank you to Davis Bunn, Kensington Publishing, and NetGalley for the ARC. My review is voluntary and all opinions are my own.

This is the first book by Davis Bunn, but it won't be the last. The story immediately grabbed me with the great characters. Add in the beautiful setting and a great story and I was hooked.

The author, Davis Bunn, truly made North Carolina's Outer Banks sound so lovely and beautiful!
Rae and Curtis grew up there together, fell in high school teen love, and when circumstances dictated that Curtis move away, they promised they would wait for each other. But, a lot can happen in nineteen years, and did. Rae is an attorney and stayed in Fortunate Harbor. It is the place she loves. Curtis, works for an international business and is sent to Fortunate Harbor to develop property. Unfortunately, the town is not receptive to this. They aren't fond of change in their community or outsiders. Rae and Curtis end up working together.
Great story and characters. Davis Bunn never disappoints! You'll find crooked dealings, suspense, talk of pirates, the DEA, and romance.
Can't wait for the next one in this new series!
I was given an advanced ecopy by the publisher, Kensington through Netgalley. I was under no obligation to leave a positive review.

This book has all the things I look for in a summer read, books about life and all its messiness in a beautiful setting, with characters I want to be friends with, strong friendships, a little romance, intrigue, and an unexpected outcome. Fortunate Harbor, a new luxury resort project on North Carolina’s Outer Banks, has the locals in an uproar. When the Fortunate Harbor project brings Curtis and Rae, childhood sweethearts that have not seen each other in over a decade.back together the outcome is something neither could have imagined. The project brings intrigue, legal troubles, the need for trustworthy allies, and danger to the story. The characters are many and likeable, I want to spend more time with them. I recommend this book to readers that enjoy stories about life filled with intrigue and relationships.

Two teenage sweethearts leave their home on the Outer Banks of North Carolina and came back quite a few years later. This is their story and how they work together to get their relationship back together. A descriptive read with characters that are well fleshed and the story makes you feel like you are there with them. I highly recommend that you read this story.
I received an ARC from NetGalley and the Publisher and leaving a review by my own choice.

𝐅𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐚𝐭𝐞 𝐇𝐚𝐫𝐛𝐨𝐫 is an intriguing blend of International Corporate dealings, first loves reuniting in a complicated land grab, and even a little treasure hunting!

In these pages, the author skillfully weaves a suspenseful legal drama set in the picturesque Outer Banks, with a splash of romance. The considerable amount of legal and business detail, while at times felt vague and slowed the pace, did create a sense of mystery, keeping us on the trail and searching for more.

Without spoiling it, I’ll just say the romance did not go the way I expected, but didn’t detract from the story. I enjoyed watching the characters, whether family, friends, or the townspeople, work on trust and forgiveness.


Thank you @uplitreads @davisbunnauthor and @kensingtonbooks for these gifted books. Thank you @RecordedBooks for the gifted audiobook via #NetGalley.

If you’re looking for a feel-good summer read that blends mystery, romance, and personal transformation, Fortunate Harbor by Davis Bunn is a must-add to your beach bag. Set against the beautiful and breezy backdrop of the Outer Banks, this contemporary fiction novel delivers everything I love in a story: second chances, coastal charm, and just enough intrigue to keep me turning the pages.

The heart of Fortunate Harbor lies in its rekindled romance and the emotional journey of starting over. It’s a tender, hopeful tale about finding love and learning to live again after life’s storms. Bunn masterfully weaves in a legal mystery—one of my favorite elements—with the added bonus of pirate legends that give the story a fun, adventurous twist.

There’s something deeply comforting in the way this novel unfolds. The coastal mystery is intriguing but never heavy, and the legal angle adds a layer of depth without overpowering the emotional core. The characters feel real and relatable, their struggles and triumphs echoing the ups and downs of real life.

This is the kind of story that leaves you smiling, feeling a little lighter, and maybe even dreaming of your own second chance. With its seaside setting, mix of mystery and romance, and heartfelt message, Fortunate Harbor is a great pick for fans of contemporary fiction and a perfect companion for a lazy afternoon in the sun.

Now y’all, I am not going to lie…this book is a bit slow. But, this story also hit me at just the right time. I needed something that took me away. This one takes you away to the wonderful place of the Outer Banks.

Curtis has returned after 19 years away. And oh, the memories are getting to him. Then he runs into his old girlfriend, Rae. And these two are on opposite sides of a big land deal.

I enjoyed how these two interacted. Curtis is definitely a bit withdrawn and quiet…with good reason. But Rae doesn’t let him get by with it. She is determined to set everything straight, for the past and the present.

Need a book with a great setting…THIS IS IT! Grab your copy today!

I received this copy from the publisher for a honest review.

BOOK REVIEW of Fortunate Harbor by Davis Bunn

A five star resort has the entire community of Fortunate Harbor on edge. The locals see the resort as impeding on their pristine coastal sanctuary.

This is where Curtis Gage and Rae Alden, former high school sweethearts, enter the picture. Curtis is representing the secretive parent company of the resort and Rae is the local attorney that represents a local man that’s been missing for four years.

This book was confusing. The story felt all over the place and there were loose ends that never were resolved. In lieu of saying too much negative I will just say that this book wasn’t for me. I couldn’t follow the story when every interaction ended in a half conversation to “keep you guessing” until the next chapter. I couldn’t connect with the characters or understand why there was such a need to develop numerous secrets.


Thank you to Kensington Publishings and Netgalley for an advanced reader copy. All opinions are my own. Publication Release Date: April 29,2025.

This gifted storyteller paints a beautiful picture, and what better setting than the idyllic Outer Banks of NC. With captivating vistas, colorful history, and relatable characters, this sweet love story uncovers secrets and sets a course for new beginnings.

Part corporate espionage, part romance, and part pirate booty lore, enchanting Fortunate Harbor will take you on a wonderful seaside escape. With small-town charm and friendly townsfolk with strong opinions, this one is a cool ocean breeze on a warm summer night.

*Special thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for an early copy.

A new series by Davis Bunn? Yes, please.

Rae and Curtis grew up together and were each others first love. After a tragedy, Curtis leaves and as many times happens, they grow apart as they grow up. Rae went to law school and is now an attorney in Fortunate Harbor. Curtis, after another tragedy, is now the 'face' for an international business hoping to develop some property in Fortunate Harbor that does not have community backing. Rae becomes Curtis' attorney and the story takes off. With international corporate intrigue, tons of money, and possible involvement with the DEA, the story moves quickly. Will Rae and Curtis become more than friends and pick up their relationship where it left off a decade before? Will the community back the new changes and opportunities that the new company wants to bring?

With this being the first book in a new series, there are lots of players and lots to remember. I enjoy this authors ability to make everything become clear as the series moves along. The ending was a bit abrupt, but I can see 2 or 3 possible people in Fortunate Harbor becoming the headliners for the next book in this series.

I enjoyed the story and look forward for the continuation of the series.

I love reading books that are based in places that I have been and specifically, North Carolina, so when I saw Fortunate Harbor, I knew I had to read it. This story had everything, mystery, pirate legends, romance, and second chances that may not turn out the way you expect. I love the connection that Rae and Curtis had as teenagers and how they were able to trust each other and work together as adults. They realized that there were others looking for the treasure that they used to hunt for as kids and they wanted to protect it when they realized it was in their grasp. Overall, this was an excellent read and is perfect for your summer TBR!

This is the first book I've read by this author and one of the things I really enjoyed was how you were kept on the edge of your seat wanting to see what was going to happen next. The two main characters, Curtis Gage and Rae Alden, had been childhood sweethearts until circumstances led to his family moving away.

This story is about friendship, trust/betrayal, life lessons, and suspense. I love the mix of characters, the setting, and the possible pirate connection.

Thank you to NetGalley, Kensington Books and the author for the opportunity to read this book for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Fortunate Harbor is the second book I have read by Davis Bunn. I enjoyed it just as much as the first one that I had read. The characters are realistic, the NC Outer Banks is a vivid setting and the storyline line with its hidden treasure and corporate battle. Curtis Gage returns to the Outer Banks as an adult while Rae Alden never really left. Together they have a reconnection, a place to protect and a mystery to solve. A wonderful entertaining story to read while sitting on the beach.

Davis Bunn was a new author for me. I don't normally read mystery books but I found his novel Fortunate Harbor an exciting read. Aldo I was surprise by the ending.. The book made you want to keep reading to find out what happened next. The description of Beaufort and Crystal Coast made me want to visit that area. I think this book would be enjoyable to any reader. Thank you to Netgalley for allowing me to read this novel prior to its publication.