Honeymoon Harbor series
by JoAnn Ross
Lose yourself in the magic, charm and romance of Christmas in the Pacific Northwest as imagined in JoAnn Ross’s heartwarming Honeymoon Harbor series.
Growing up on the wrong side of the tracks, Jolene Wells is forever indebted to the mother who encouraged her to fly—all the way to sunny LA and a world away from Honeymoon Harbor. Although Jolene vowed never to look back, returning home isn’t even a question when her mom faces a cancer scare. Which means running into Aiden Mannion all over town, the first boy she ever loved—and lost—and whom she can barely look in the eye.
Aiden’s black-sheep reputation may have diminished when he joined the marines, but everything he’s endured since has left him haunted. Back in Honeymoon Harbor to heal, he’s talked into the interim role of police chief, and the irony isn’t lost on the locals, least of all Aiden. But seeing Jolene after all these years is the unexpected breath of fresh air he’s been missing. He’s never forgotten her through all his tours, but he’s not sure anymore that he’s the man she deserves.
Despite the secret they left between them all those years ago, snow is starting to fall on their picturesque little town, making anything seem possible…maybe even a second chance at first love.
Second chance romances are hit and miss for me, but here Ross definitely has a winner. I loved how Aiden and Jolene get to know each other again and manage to find their way into a HEA. This is one of those feel good versions that work for me.
Ross’s main characters are complex and the supporting cast of family & friends are a delight. She delivers quirky world, full of love & support. But for those who are a little more of a … purist, I feel I should give a heads up about Aiden’s otherworldly friend. I found him to be a fantastic addition to the story, and something Aiden definitely needed, but a ghostly friend won’t be for everyone.
Small town romances are definitely high on my list of favorites and setting them during Christmas just makes them all the better. (Oh, and I personally don’t think it is ever the wrong time for a great Christmas story!) If you are an addict of those Hallmark-y holiday movies, you definitely have to get your hands on this one.
