Yesterday, my daughter Rebecca spent two solid hours reorganizing her enamel pin collection by color, then by theme, then by "vibe." When I asked if she was done, she said, "Mom, you can't rush art." Fair enough. But it reminded me that sometimes the most beautiful things take patience and careful attention to detail. Chasing the Sun is one of those stories where every piece clicks into place beautifully, and the wait for the characters to finally get together is absolutely worth it.
Plot Summary
Chasing the Sun by Lena Hendrix is the first book in the Star Harbor series. Elodie returns to her small hometown of Star Harbor after discovering her boyfriend cheating on her with her best friend. Determined to start fresh, she accepts an opportunity to help restore Star Harbor Farm to its former glory and boost tourism. The only problem? Grumpy single dad Callum Blackwood, who runs the Drifted Spirit Inn next door, had his own plans for that same piece of land. As rivals forced into close proximity, their initial animosity turns into undeniable chemistry. Set in a charming small town with quirky locals and plenty of heart, this rivals-to-lovers romance delivers emotional depth and sizzling tension.
Why I Love This Book
I love how Chasing the Sun balances humor with genuine emotion. Elodie is relatable and determined, picking herself up after heartbreak and creating something meaningful. Callum is the perfect grumpy hero—protective, devoted to his son, and hiding a heart of gold beneath that brooding exterior. Their banter is witty and electric, and I loved watching the tension build between them. The side characters add so much charm to Star Harbor, making it feel like a place I'd want to visit. The pacing is spot-on, and the slow-burn romance had me completely invested. This book delivers heart, heat, and a satisfying happily ever after.
Who Will Like This Book
If you enjoy small town romance, grumpy/sunshine dynamics, rivals-to-lovers, or single dad romances, you'll love this story. Fans of slow-burn chemistry with steamy payoff will be delighted. The book has depth and emotion without heavy angst, making it a perfect feel-good read with substance. It's ideal for readers who love quirky small towns with meddling locals and romances that make your heart flutter.
⚠️ Trigger warning: references to past loss/grief, cheating (off-page, before the story begins), mild adult language, explicit sexual content.
Tagged As
small town romance, contemporary romance, Star Harbor series, rivals to lovers, grumpy sunshine, single dad romance, forced proximity, slow burn, banter, steamy, emotional, quirky town, HEA, standalone, indie
Steam Level
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ Explicit
The book features several explicit, open-door love scenes that are well-integrated into the emotional arc of the story. The spice is steamy and intense, with detailed intimacy that serves the relationship development. Callum is protective and passionate, and their chemistry is electric.
