Moonlight Feels Right: A Heartwarming Retreat to Ocean Shores
As a reader, I often find myself drawn to stories that intertwine lighthearted romance with profound emotional depth. Barbara Freethy’s Moonlight Feels Right hit all the right notes, making it impossible to resist diving into the sun-soaked paradise of Ocean Shores once again. After the tumultuous events of the previous books, I was eager to see how love and healing would manifest in this latest installment, and Freethy surely delivered!
At the heart of this enchanting story is Emmalyn McGuire, a kindergarten teacher with a heart full of hope, despite her lingering uncertainties about love and her own past. Enter Hunter Kane, a brooding military pilot struggling through his own grief and trauma. The juxtaposition between Emmalyn’s sunshine spirit and Hunter’s brooding demeanor sets the stage for a classic "grumpy sunshine" romance that had me cheering for both characters as they embarked on a journey of healing and self-discovery.
Freethy’s writing pulses with a relatable authenticity, immersing readers in the emotional turmoil of both protagonists. Their chemistry crackles off the pages, especially as they navigate the chaotic world of makeshift parenthood with Hunter’s late best friend’s daughter, Olivia. I couldn’t help but smile at the tender moments they share, from surfing lessons to heartwarming bedtime stories that reveal Hunter’s own journey to healing.
What truly resonated with me was their shared vulnerabilities. The book doesn’t shy away from exploring the impact of trauma, making it realistic yet hopeful. Through Emmalyn’s secretive past at a cult and Hunter’s haunting memories of loss, Freethy delicately weaves their narratives together, allowing them to heal not just individually but also as a pair. It’s a testament to how love can emerge from the ashes of personal tragedies—a theme that enriches this romantic tale.
The pacing of the story felt just right. Freethy expertly balances lighter, humorous moments with more intense, emotional scenes. I found myself laughing out loud at their playful banter and then holding my breath during more poignant moments, like Emmalyn’s heartfelt discussions about trust and fear with Hunter. It’s in these interactions where the heart of the book truly shines, reminding us that love often comes when we least expect it.
In terms of memorable quotes, I was particularly struck by Hunter’s realization that “both he and Emmalyn were survivors.” This sentiment encapsulates the essence of the book—finding strength and solace in one another in a bustling community that feels like family.
For readers who adore feel-good romances filled with emotional depth and charming characters, Moonlight Feels Right will be a delightful addition to your bookshelf. It beautifully captures the complexity of love, loss, and healing, wrapped in the warmth of community and friendship. After finishing this book, I felt renewed, as if I’d just taken a break in an idyllic coastal retreat. I cannot wait to see where Barbara Freethy takes us next in Ocean Shores, and I wholeheartedly recommend this book to anyone seeking a sweet, uplifting read.
You can find Moonlight Feels Right (Sweet, feel-good romance!) (Ocean Shores Book 3) here >>