Debbie Macomber strikes a tender note with the first in a new series, The Inn at Rose Harbor, a poignant tale of a young widow’s path to healing.

The residents of Cedar Cove are quick to embrace Jo Marie Rose and the Rose Inn, a bed and breakfast she’s bought with money inherited upon the death of her soldier husband. But judging from her first two guests’ demeanors, Jo isn’t the only one with a heavy heart….

Josh is in town to see to his ailing stepfather even though the two have never gotten along. If not for the elderly man’s lovely caregiver Michelle, Josh might not have found treasured mementos belonging to his mother.

One would think that Abby would be all smiles over her brother’s impending nuptials. But attending the wedding will be friends who may still blame Abby for the accident that killed her best friend years ago. Still guilt-ridden, she wonders whether her old flame, Steve Hooks, judges her as well.

Meanwhile, Jo Marie is grateful for the kindness of Mark Taylor, Cedar Cove’s attractive handyman. And suddenly Jo recalls a dream in which her late husband said she would find joy again. Maybe the Rose Inn can become a place of healing for all those who stay, beginning with her….