Windswept Way by Irene Hannon Book Review

About the Book:

One house that deserves a second chance meets two hearts that deserve the same . . .

Buying a haunted house was never in Ashley Scott's plans, but when an intriguing opportunity drops into her lap after a major life setback, she finds herself trekking cross-country to Hope Harbor on the Oregon coast to launch a new life.

Wounded warrior Jonathan Gray isn't sure what to make of the attractive woman on his reclusive older neighbor's isolated property, but her presence is none of his business--until she enlists his help with an ambitious project. When Jonathan finds his interest in the new arrival becoming more personal than professional, however, his defenses go up. There's no room in his life--or his heart--for romance.

Yet as these two hurting souls join forces to restore life, laughter, and love to a historic estate, might they also find healing, hope, and happiness themselves?

You can read an excerpt here.

My Review:

This is another delightful romance from Hannon that deals with a number of issues. Do we judge a person by what's on their skin or what's in their heart? Do dreams have to die when a tragedy causes physical disfigurement? Is it best to hide, whether it is behind a curtain in a house or behind a face covering? Can one break through possible criticism to dream again?

I like how Hannon has parallel threads in the plot. The framework concerns the renovation of an historic house. Woven through it are threads of restoring dreams and of taking a chance on love after rejection. A supportive community helps pave the way.

The main characters are developed well. Ashley and Jon are both recovering from rejection. We hope they can overcome serious obstacles to love. I liked the support characters too. The taco truck fellow who is also an artist and the pastor and priest, good friends who tease each other. There is dear Rose who might just be challenged to end her reclusive life. I liked the two seagulls too.

Hannon's writing style is a pleasure to read. She can have a character make some suggestions about plants that are also insights into relationships. It is a clever technique. While this novel is down the line in the many ones taking place in Hope Harbor, it reads very well on its own.

My rating: 4/5 stars.

About the Author:

Irene Hannon is the bestselling and award-winning author of more than 60 contemporary romance and romantic suspense novels. In addition to her many other honors, she is a three-time winner of the prestigious RITA Award from Romance Writers of America. She is also a member of RWA's elite Hall of Fame and has received a Career Achievement Award from RT Book Reviews for her entire body of work. Learn more at www.irenehannon.com. Photo Credit: © DeWeesePhotography.com

Revell, 352 pages.

I received a complimentary egalley of this book from the publisher. My comments are an independent and honest review.

(My star ratings: 5-I love it, 4-I like it, 3-It's OK, 2-I don't like it, 1-I hate it.)