Lynda's Reviews > Love's Winter Hope

This is the fifth book in the Eagle Harbor series. I have enjoyed each installment and read them as they come out, even though each can be read as a standalone. The continuing story in a familiar place with characters both new and known keeps drawing me back and I relish checking in to one of my favorite fictional worlds each time I pick up a new one.

This novel focuses primarily on Thomas and Jessalyn. His return after five years poses difficulties rather than a cheerful reunion, but it isn't long before the reader begins to understand it is a series of misunderstandings and miscommunications that led to the length of time apart. There is still much to work out, however, and both characters are sympathetic given the circumstances.

Forgiveness is a weighty theme in this book. There is so much hurt to go around and frustration at trying to make things right even as the other person tosses hurdle after hurdle in the way of reconciliation. But in the difficult conversations where we aren't sure that the family will be reunited, even then a thread of grace runs through with each acknowledging their own mistakes and accepting responsibility.

The characters are all too realistic, though, and the temptation to press a momentary advantage or a flat refusal to consider alternative plans sends them back to the beginning several times. There are also lingering trust issues. But even in the serious and difficult scenes of a couple working their way back to each other, moments of humor add a little levity to keep things from becoming too heavy, and the continuing theme of hope keeps the mood from getting too dark.

I enjoy the historical detail and the opportunity to visit Eagle Harbor again. The larger cast of characters continue to make cameos in Eagle Harbor, and my favorite ongoing thread is the tentative steps the Cummings brothers take toward each other. I would highly recommend this book to those who like historical romance, starting at the beginning if possible for maximum enjoyment. I eagerly await the next novel in the series!

I received a free copy of this book from the author. I was not required to post a positive review and all of the opinions expressed are both honest and my own.