I feel like writing a series of any length can be challenging. Longer ones ... past a trilogy ... can be even harder to keep enjoyable, maintaining readers' vested interest and curiosity. So needless to say, it's darn impressive that Hope Harbor has 8 books and counting--and they're all fantastic. :)

(Not that I'm remotely partial to the Oregon-coast location, either, being a favorite vacation spot. Ahem.) :)

This was one read I actually enjoyed both parallel plots about the same. I usually prefer one or the other, but this one? Both held my attention equally. And of course, I loved the repeat characters from previous books! Whether they've gotten their own stories (Jeannette, Marci, etc.) or not yet (Charley)--or are, frankly, animals (the seagulls!)--I got so darn excited every time they appeared! Like Captain America, "I understood that reference."

While one does not _necessarily_ need to read the Hope Harbor books in order, I do feel the reader benefits accordingly (see above, haha). It certainly adds depth to the experience!

And, as ever, Hannon addresses tough topics with both grace and gentle bluntness. I so enjoyed the story arcs each character went through to get to the ending they did. Very well done; 4/5 stars.

I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.