Windswept Way

Written by Irene Hannon

Narrated by Therese Plummer

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?

• Language: English
• Publisher: Recorded Books, Inc.
• Release date: Apr 4, 2023
• ISBN: 9781705084090

Irene Hannon

Two-time RITA Award winner Irene Hannon is the bestselling author of 40+ romance and romantic suspense novels. She has also won a National Readers’ Choice Award, a Carol Award, a HOLT Medallion, a Daphne du Maurier Award and 2 Reviewers’ Choice Awards from RT Book Reviews. Booklist named one of her novels a “Top 10 Inspirational Fiction” title for 2011. Visit www.irenehannon.com.

Reviews for Windswept Way

[astampb · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

This was a sweet novel, but I found it a slow read.

[peggy.s · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Windswept Way is the newest in Irene Hannon’s Hope Harbor series. It is always a delight to return to Hope Harbor with Ms. Hannon. It’s great to reunite with favored characters (Charley and the sea gulls, for example). Even with some carry-over characters, this is a stand-alone book and the rest of the series doesn’t have to be read to enjoy this one.

The plot revolves around Ashley Scott trying to revamp an old mansion into a new venue to be used for weddings, etc. In order to do this, she enlists the help of Jonathan Gray, a rather reclusive neighbor. As they work on the mansion, romantic sparks begin to fly.

I received this book through the LibraryThing’s Early Reader program.

[mizroady · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I love this series! Hope Harbor is like a favorite vacation spot I can visit again and again in these books! I can almost smell the ocean and feel the sand beneath my feet. I always enjoy meeting the old characters again and seeing how the last ones are becoming part of the community. My favorite one is Charlie the taco man and his sea gull sidekicks!Needing a fresh start Ashley Scott decides to really step out of her comfort zone, travel 2500 miles (approximately, yes I checked) to purchase an historic Victorian mansion. Her nerves are a little one frazzled after reading about the rumors the house is haunted and tales of spotting of an ethereal woman in white walking on the grounds. Upon arriving as she starts to enter the gate a man in a mask carrying a chainsaw moves out of the hedge. You know here her mind goes! (Mine went there too!) He passes the car, much to her relief, and walks away. She finds out later this is Jon, the landscaper. He is a war veteran deeply scarred both physically and emotionally. The owner of the home, eighty year old Rose Fitzgerald is also quite mysterious and a bit different. She has locked herself away in this mansion for many years where she lives alone. Ashley finds that the purchasing the home comes with some unusual conditions. This story was constantly surprising me with unexpected circumstances that arose and most of all with Ashley peeling away the layers and discovering the most incredible secrets of Jon and Rose. I did the “stay up too late and read” night because I couldn't put it down!It was beautiful to see how no matter how hurt a person is or misguided in their thinking about their previous life, they overcome it! New life can begin no matter how difficult the past is. Ashley being able to see past Jon’s disfigurement to who he truly was touched my heart. Each character has their own ghosts from their past to deal with and courageously moves forward. I love how this unfolds! I received this book from Revell Publishing in exchange for an honest review. The opinions stated are my own.

[b.hartman · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Loved this book! This is the first book I have read that addresses the struggles our wounded warriors and the people that love them face! At the same time the lessons taught in this romance story can be the same for anyone. Don't be afraid to talk to the ones you love, don't be afraid to take a chance on love and don't second guess how others are feeling. This rings true in every relationship a person has! Great character development throughout, a compelling story, and a thoughtful conclusion. I hope to read more about Hope Harbor from this series.

[ecataldi-1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

A charming and inspirational read that makes me want to go back and read the rest of this series. While this can easily be read as a standalone - it's clear that Hope Harbor and cute and quirky residents play bigger roles in other novels. In Windswept Way. Ashley Scott decides to move across the country to take a chance on an old estate. As a historian she loves to showcase old houses and use them as event venues, she is charmed by Edgecliff and convinces the elderly owner to become her partner and open up the grand estate in order to preserve it and its legacy. In the process she finds herself charmed by the beautiful seaside town and a certain landscaper who wants to do nothing more than hide. Jonathon Gray used to be a model, but now he hides behind his shades and scarves. During the war he was badly injured and his scars have a way of scaring people. Rather than get to close to anyone he decides to keep to himself - that is until Ashley. Charming and inspirational - the perfect kind of fluff!

[polarmath · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Ashley Scott finds herself in Hope Harbor trying to start over. She meets Jonathan who helps her out with this new adventure. As the two of them work on her property and new ideas they begin to grow closer. Here’s to hoping of new lives and new loves.

[fcplcataloger · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Windswept Way takes us back to Hope Harbor, Oregon, for another visit with the likable residents of this lovely seacoast village. We're introduced to Rose, Ashley, and Jonathan as they join forces to restore a beloved historical residence but the ultimate restoration project may actually take place in their own lives. Author Irene Hannon shares a touching story of finding one's purpose, learning to trust, and seeing beyond outward appearances, and she also gives readers a reunion with Charlie, Father Murphy, and Reverend Baker. I loved Rose's efforts to unite Ashley and Jonathan and I was moved by the special friendship that she finds with Charlie. How could this happen to a person who purposely avoided people?!?!Windswept Way is awesome contemporary fiction and I'm so glad that there are more books planned for this Hope Harbor series. Hannon excels in writing realistic stories that tug at your heartstrings and inspire you to search your soul, and I was truly 'swept away' while reading this story!I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher. There was no obligation for a positive review. These are my own thoughts.

[maret5g · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Ashley Scott signed the partnership with the 80 year old owner of Edgecliff mansion to restore the property and use it for weddings and other gathering events. Rose Fitzgerald used to be a famous pianist but her interaction with others ended a long time ago. While working on the historic estate, both women were also restoring their own lives. But nothing could restore Jon’s Grey happiness. His body and mostly his face, was damaged in the war. How will the story end for all three lost souls? Great message is received from this book. It’s not what we see on the surface that matters, but what is inside each person. There are some great characters in this book but there are others who show cruelty. At the end, people with beautiful hearts make a great difference in other people’s lives. Sweet and romantic story that I enjoyed reading.  

[maydacat_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Ashley, after a failed relationship, is looking for a new business opportunity. Rose, reclusive and alone in her life, wishes to do something worthwhile with her property and home. Jonathon, severely wounded in a war, is hiding from people and the world as much as possible. These three persons eventually help each other, and in doing so, reconnect with others and with themselves. They realize that the true worth of a person is on the inside, and that everyone has something to offer others. Well written and inspiring, this story is another great installment in the Hope Harbor series. The characters, both the continuing ones and the new, are real and wonderful, especially the two men of the cloth and the artist/taco-maker/philosopher.

[vintagebeckie · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Traveling to Hope Harbor is always a treat! The latest installment in the contemporary romance series, Windswept Way, is another outstanding book by Irene Hannon. The setting of the novel is again the Oregon coast with its lovely views of sea stacks, circling seagulls, and the welcoming town. Windswept Way introduces two residents and a newcomer to the reader. Octogenarian Rose has had a lot of knocks in her life. Her family home is more than retreat, it is a safe haven from prying eyes and media attention. Jon has been wounded physically, but also emotionally, as he battled back from sever injuries suffered as a soldier. He too hides from the world. Both are vulnerable in similar ways. Enter Ashley, a vivacious and optimistic woman who befriends both. Her empathy and caring spirit are hard to resist. She’s been wounded in a lesser way than Rose and Jon, but she seeks to understand and help their healing. As always, Hannon inserts favorite characters into the narrative — they add a great deal of color to the book, but also wise words. While there is romance in the air, it develops slowly and naturally. This is a stranger to friend to more story that builds throughout the book. While most readers will not have undergone the physical and emotional trauma that the main characters experienced, they will find connections to the themes of betrayal and resulting vulnerability. All the characters are Christians, with some firm in their faith, while others feel God is a long way off. I liked the how the community of believers supports each other.Windswept Way is the ninth book in the series! I think it is the best so far. It can easily be read as a standalone, but I recommend starting from the beginning. Nine wonderful novels to read — how great is that?!Recommended.Audience: adults.(Thanks to Revell for a complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

[lamb521 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Title: Windswept Way (Hope Harbor #9)Author: Irene HannonPages: 352Year: 2023Publisher: RevellMy rating: 5 out of 5 starsHope Harbor novels are very touching and enticing novels because they capture the attention and heart of the reader from the first to the last page. Windswept Way tells the story of a recluse who lives in a mansion on the Oregon coast. Most people who live in the area believe there are ghosts that inhabit the house. On the opposite side of the country, Ashley Scott is looking for a fresh start in her personal life and professional career.When Ashley reaches out to the recluse who lives at Edgecliff Manor, she gets an unexpected response. From then on, Ashley and the sole occupant of the manor paths intertwine. One of the contractors for the renovation on Edgecliff is a landscaper named Jonathan Gray who Ashley caught a glimpse of the night she arrived at the manor. Who was the masked man who came out of nowhere and disappeared just as fast before Ashley’s heartbeat returned to normal?Well, Irene Hannon has woven together a magnificent tale where people from all walks of life converge on Edgecliff manor and come out with more than they ever thought possible. As audiences enjoy the tale, the author introduces each character with little pieces of information that pique the interest. At first glance, the little revelations don’t always make sense but read on and see how a beautiful masterpiece gets unveiled by the end of the book!It was amazing to see how the theme of being scarred, broken, and hiding becomes full of life and hope! I loved how Rose went from a recluse to a woman who, in her later years, comes back to life and allows others to see her talented and gifted heart. Ashley and Jon’s story grips the heart and had me choked up (in a good way) by the end. Of course, Charley, the sage of the series, just seems to bring out the best in others.If you haven’t read any of the Hope Harbor books, you’re missing something special. They can be read as stand-alone novels, but I think better enjoyed by reading them sequentially. The titles in the series are as follows: Hope Harbor, Sea Rose Lane, Sandpiper Cove, Pelican Point, Driftwood Bay, Starfish Pier, Blackberry Beach, Sea Glass Cottage, and Windswept Way!Note: The opinions shared in this review are solely my responsibility.

[jrbooklvr · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Windswept Way by Irene Hannon is such an unexpected romance with a paranormal twist. You will be captivated until the last page.

[koglibrary · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

This is the first book by this author I have read. Although it's #9 in the series, it can stand alone. It is a great story of how true love can overcome many things. Each of the characters had a lot of baggage and obstacles to overcome. They were meant to meet and help each other grow. The other characters in the story helped the main characters find their way and added a little humor as well. I loved the way the characters were developed and how it all came together. The few little surprises made this hard to put down and fun to read! I received this from LibraryThing Early Reviewers

[kendra_gale · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I haven't read any of the previous 8 books in the series, but found that's not necessary. I enjoyed the writing and the story. Curiosity, romance and a good wholesome story. I will be looking forward to reading those previous 8 books.

[impy_1 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I understand why people thoroughly enjoy this series. Hope Harbor seems like the kind of place where you can stop trying so hard and just be accepted for who you are, at least based on the bits we see in Windswept Way. I don't think I missed all that much having never read any of the other books in the series, so it's definitely possible to read this as a standalone and still enjoy it. I was personally hoping for a little more of the haunted house angle, so if you are too, let me save you the trouble. It's not a thing. It's basically a throwaway bit, barely touched at in the book and definitely not a haunting. Bummer, but the book itself has other things to offer if you're so inclined, including characters to root for, backstory to mine, and a few little mysteries sprinkled in for good measure.I enjoyed Rose, Jon, and Ashley, and wished the best for them as they worked to overcome their own fears and insecurities. Rose takes the first tentative steps to reconnecting with people by agreeing to meet with Ashley in an effort to turn Rose's family home into something more. Ashley's trying to come to terms with the fact that maybe she isn't all that exciting but honestly? I love that. I love that she's comfortable with herself enough to know what she likes and what she doesn't, and that there's no use pretending otherwise. She's also nursing a broken heart after she learns her boyfriend wasn't worthy of the title and that, of course, leads us to Jon. Jon's a war vet who was scarred horrifically and is still, years later, hiding his face from the stares and glares of others, afraid to let anyone get too close lest they recoil in fear/horror, like his former fiancée.There's a fine line between writing a character with such scars (both physical and emotional) realistically and inadvertently winding up in inspiration porn territory. For the most part, I think WW avoids landing in the latter, but there are moments, especially when Ashley's thinking about Jon, that we veer dangerously close. Obviously, YMMV. Also, kind of wish Ashley wasn't described as being beautiful, simply because it would've been nice to have them have something in common but still be very, very different. As it is, at times Jon seems a little hung up on whether or not someone "as beautiful as Ashley" could ever be interested in someone who looks like him. Honey, your former model status is showing and it's not cute. Also not cute is the assumption that Jon's a good man simply because he can quote the Bible, and then rescinding that assumption because he says he's on the outs with God. While the book does try to play it off as not really how one should view the world, that's pretty much immediately walked back by having so, so many people push Jon towards church. Which, given that this is apparently a Christian romance, I get... but the book's honestly better when it's not pushing that particular bit. It's possible to weave religion into a story without turning it into a hammer, but we landed in hammer territory at the end. It's a shame because the banter between the priest and reverend? Fantastic. But about the time Rose starts musing about not understanding why Jon would be angry with God is about the time the book hits a sour note for me, religion wise. Ma'am. You're seconds away from blessing yourself at the scars you can see and the knowledge of how they came to be, and you're wondering how the man might not be praising the lord for everything? No. Rose doesn't seem stupid, but this moment does her no favors given the timing. And so Rose won't be the only one getting the side-eye, Ashley has a moment or three herself, but I'll focus on the least important. She and Jon are discussing what to do for a path to the gazebo, with Jon suggesting widening it in case bridal fashions should ever change back to wider dresses and ultimately Ashley says why don't we forgo the path entirely. Ma'am. Does Oregon's grass not sink in when heels are present? Are twisted ankles not a concern when having bridal parties march down a grass covered non-path? Even with a runner, I can't imagine that no path at all is a great plan for someone who is clearly pushing the wedding venue aspect. Those things aside, I did enjoy Windswept Way and was disappointed the day I realized I'd left the book at home and would have to find something else to read on my break.BTW, I received this as an ARC via LibraryThing's ER program. Huzzah!

[eccl-3 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Windswept Way, by Irene Hannon, is the ninth book in A Hope Harbor Novel series. This is a well written, easy to read story that is fun to read. It’s fun to revisit the area and people, especially Charlie and his birds. His tacos are well known and just reading about them made me hungry. And we can’t forget the local pastors who have such an amazing and fun relationship. In this story we meet new comer Ashely, who is partnering with a local resident to upgrade her home into an events center. We also meet Jonathan, their neighbor and owner of the landscaping business they hire.This is such an encouraging story to read. The message of second chances and moving forward is strong. With Ashley, she lost her previous job to fire damage and is using her savings to get a new start. For Jonathan, he was badly injured in the war with physical scars he keeps covered up to avoid people staring. For Rose it is getting out with others and letting her secrets be known. This is a fun story to read to just get away. It is inspirational in a way that is realistic. I enjoyed when Jonathan visited the pastor’s garden, the inspiration and help the pastor gave him.I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book from Revell publishing through NetGalley, this is my honest review.

[marciablnc · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I liked this story. It was well written and portrayed the struggles of a war-injured soldier. Jon and Ashley were both emotionally scarred people who took a chance on each other and overcame the obstacles to find love.

[khiemstra631 · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

I received an ARC of this book through Library Thing's Early Reviewers program. This is Hannon's ninth book in her Hope Harbor Series. As usual, we meet some of the regulars of Hope Harbor in the book--Charley the taco guy/famous artist, the two reverends, and the seagull couple, Floyd and Gladys among them. The story line centers around lonely people who have relationship fears. There's newcomer Ashley Scott, who had a very bad experience with her previous boyfriend back in Tennessee. Hope Harbor residents Rose Fitzgerald, who owns Edgecliff, a historic home, and landscaper Jonathan Gray, a veteran who had a too-close encounter with an IED that left him permanently disfigured. Ashley has moved to Edgecliff to oversee its renovation and conversion into an events center. Rose, a mysterious town recluse and Edgecliff's owner, will be her silent partner in the background. Jon Gray has the contract to restore the gardens at Edgecliff. As the story unfolds, romances and relationships develop, implode in on themselves, and then reemerge. It's a nice feel-good story that makes for a really good read. My only complaint was that it was just a tad more predictable than the previous books in the series. That said, it's still a great escape for a weekend of reading. Recommended.

[cyncie · Rating: 4 out of 5 stars]

Windswept Way by Irene Hannon is the latest in her Hope Harbor series, focusing on new beginnings for hurting characters. This story's setting is a mysterious mansion on an estate called Edgecliff, owned by the elderly and intriguing recluse, Rose. Rose hires a young women, Ashley, to help her transform the estate for use as a special events venue and in the process of the home's transformation, its characters also undergo many changes. There is a love interest for Ashley who has an integral part in the home's transformation. Beloved characters from the earlier books are also included which adds richness of the story, like seeing an old friend again. This was a sweet, inspiring story.

[lichre · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Absolutely sunning portrayal of three characters in hiding from relationships for very different reasons. Each character helps the other ones come to terms with what they are “hiding” from. The role of God giving them messages through a variety of minor characters is very well done. I highly recommend this book!

[alekee_1 · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

Welcome back, that is how it feels to be with old friends, and yes, there are some recurring characters, including Charlie and his seagull friends, along with visits to the Lavender Farm, among others. This can be read alone, but you might want to pick up the past books in this series, they are just as good!This is a story of healing, and there are many types, we have hurt people, some by war, and some by other people. The author gives us such a beautiful place for the setting, Hope Harbor, but we are also at a picturesque home, and it is about to reveal secrets, both in the house and grounds, and now the people we are now spending time with.This story pulls you in and doesn't let go, all the way to the epilogue! Now I see there are more to come, love the author's notes!I received this book through Net Galley ad the Publisher Bethany House, and was not required to give a positive review.

[macnoid · Rating: 5 out of 5 stars]

I have been looking forward to reading Windswept Way, book 9 in the Hope Harbor series, by Irene Hannon ever since I finish book 8!! I had already won a couple of other books from this series, and was so excited to learn I had won another for early review! I started reading it just hours after it arrived and finished it the next day. It has been as enjoyable a read as all the others in the series. Each book has centered on someone new coming to Hope Harbor, a small town on the Oregon coast, each wanting a place of shelter, or a new start after some painful times in their life. The name Hope Harbor gave them hope for a new beginning. Windswept Way introduces us to Rose, a reclusive elderly woman who has let very few people into her life (or her mansion) due to a past scandal and heartbreak. She has some secrets, and a lot to offer. Ashley is a spirited young woman who has also been hurt by a past relationship, and ready for a new start. She love history, and old homes, and is enthusiastic in creating a business that will be based on these 2 interests, which means partnering with Rose. There's Jon, a landscape planner who started his own company. He's a 'wounded warrior' carrying physical as well as emotional scars from an IED explosion in the Middle East. He's lonely, but feels unlovable due to his scars, and he has a big heart, hiring ex-cons to give then a 2nd chance. And of course, readers of the series will relish more visits with the town folk: Charley, the local artist and taco maker who is so wise and thoughtful, and has just the right words of encouragement and wisdom to share at just the right time to someone who needs to hear them! He's a prime example of someone who 'lives his religion'. Even his seagull pals, Floyd and Gladys are still popping up throughout the book! Two other townies are the pastor and priest, whose gentle banter and humor continue to amuse...but who also are a source of help for those hurting. Many who were the prime characters in other books in the series have parts to play in this story, and it's nice to see them thriving. Throughout the series, we see the profound effects kindness, support, encouragement, acceptance, love and caring have on others who are hurting and lonely, and in need of love and acceptance. Lives are changed as a result, and it makes one realize how much of an impact we can have on the lives of others through our actions and our words. It would be a kinder world if we all practiced this. Overall an inspiring and enjoyable read!