• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content
  • Skip to primary sidebar
  • Home
  • Bio
  • Bookshelf
    • Audio
    • Complete List of Chautona’s Books
    • The Rockland Chronicles
      • The Vintage Wren
      • The Aggie Series
      • The Hartfield Mysteries
      • Sight Unseen Series
        • Sight Unseen Series Archives
      • The Agency Files
      • Christmas Fiction
    • Legacy of the Vines
    • Meddlin’ Madeline
      • Madeline Blog Archive
    • Ballads from the Hearth
      • Ballads from the Hearth Blog Archive
    • Legends of the Vengeance
    • Journey of Dreams
    • Wynnewood
    • Webster’s Bakery
    • The Not-So-Fairy Tales
    • Heart of Warwickshire
  • Start HERE
    • If You Like…
    • Characters
    • Suggested Reading Order
    • Free Books
  • Blog
  • Contact
  • Podcast
    • Podcast Guest Information
    • Podcast Interview FAQ
  • Merch Shop
  • Nav Social Menu

    • Email
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • Pinterest
    • Twitter
    • YouTube
  • Bonus
  • New & Coming
Chautona Havig

Chautona Havig

Using story to connect YOU to the Master Storyteller

What Does My Dream Island Vacation Have to Do with a New Book?

by Chautona Havig · 3 Comments

Reclaiming Hope released yesterday, and oh, this story has so much to offer. More than just an opposites attract., it's a glimpse at hope. via @chautonahavig

“If you could visit any island in the world, which one would it be?”

I’ve had people ask me this question before. I don’t know how to answer it, frankly. Why Fiji and not Hawaii?  Why Nantucket and not Prince Edward Island?  For that matter, why Guernsey instead of Catalina?

I’ve had a dream of taking a two-week cruise to Hawaii. I figured it would be the best way to have a full cruise experience AND see the Hawaiian islands. I could make a whole book about it.  And it would be awesome.

But if someone said, “Here’s ten thousand dollars.  Go to an island for a week or two,” I can’t even begin to choose which one I’d… well, choose!

So, I’m asking you guys to choose for me.  This is what I’d want for sure.

  • A nice place to stay. Doesn’t have to be glamorous, just clean, comfortable, and with clean water. #becauseImADesertRat
  • Fun history to explore
  • Good food that is safe to eat (please no third-world places… I’m not interested in that for a “dream vacation.”
  • Not desert (I don’t need to travel to see desert, so something different.
  • Not ONLY touristy (I’m not a big “attractions” kind of gal. I like to wander, spend time alone, observe, etc. I don’t want a “nightlife” or a bunch of tour stuff. Just a chance to explore another world.

So, where am I going? And better yet…

Reclaiming Hope release

Note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you. 🙂

What Does My Dream Island Vacation Have to Do with a New Book?

Well, Carolyn Miller’s latest book in the Independence Islands Series released yesterday, and for her release, she asked us to tell her our dream island vacation.  And well… um… I don’t know, hence shamelessly using you to help me!

I think this book is my favorite of hers in the series… but only just. She has some fabulous books in here!

Reclaiming HopeReclaiming Hope by Carolyn Miller

Opposites attract—and repel. But which is more powerful?

Callie Steele might be a bit…focused on work, but despite what her employers say, she enjoys her well-ordered, productive life.

When she’s sent to meet the owners of an estate requiring post-hurricane landscaping, Callie meets their son, Kai Brody, a super-chilled pro surfer, who is as opposite from her as they come. Though initially smitten, Callie knows a relationship with Kai is a bad idea—a very bad idea.

Kai, however, can’t help but be intrigued by someone who challenges him to make something of his life again. He’s determined to pursue her, if she’ll give him half a chance.

The more time they spend together, negotiating the challenges of work, illness, and family, the more their opposing outlooks clash and connect. What do these unlikely friends really want from life? Is it best to focus on work or recreation?

As Kai and Callie seek answers from the Lord, they also must consider if such complete opposites have enough in common to make a relationship last.

Reclaiming Hope concludes the Hooper Island stories of the Independence Islands Series featuring five islands, six authors, and a boatload of happily-ever-afters.

The Independence Islands Series: beach reads aren’t just for summer anymore.

Don’t forget to read the other authors’ posts about their dream island escapes and enter their giveaways.

Carolyn Miller (Dec. 7th)
Chautona Havig (Dec. 8th) 
Melissa Wardwell (Dec 9th )
Kari Trumbo (Dec. 10th)
Rachel Skatvold (Dec. 11th)
Tabitha Bouldin (Dec. 12th)
Sandy Barela–Publisher (Dec. 13th)

And get your entry in here!

Share
Pin
Post
Email
Share
Pin
Post
Email

Filed Under: New Release

Previous Post: « I’ve Found an Excellent New (to Me) Romantic Suspense Author
Next Post: I’m Thrilled to Share this Historical Mystery and Its Brilliant Author »

Reader Interactions

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Or, you can subscribe without commenting.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Comments

  1. Kathleen Garley says

    December 8, 2021 at 5:25 pm

    Oahu,Hawaii. I went Abita more than 2 years ago to see my grandson and his family. Beautiful!!! So much to see. Went to a great luau and wet to the Arizona and WWII sites.

    Reply
  2. AVA says

    December 8, 2021 at 1:55 pm

    We went to Hawaii for our honeymoon. We went to three islands: Oahu, the Big Island, and Kauai. We enjoyed each one for what they were, but Kauai was probably the most relaxing and typical of what you think Hawaii is like. The best thing we did was take a helicopter ride over the islands — Big Island and Kauai. Totally worth it and would do it 1,000 times over. Visiting Pearl Harbor was sobering but I also wouldn’t have missed that. We also did a submarine ride which Robert wanted to do, but I could’ve skipped it — and not because that’s where I threw up on my new husband! (I’ll tell you the story some other time.). The Dole Plantation was fun, especially the maze. The Audobon trail thing was great, too. Just driving around and viewing everything was fun. Oddly enough, we never got in the ocean water, just a swimming pool at one of the places we stayed. Visiting various markets was fun and eating out.

    Reply
  3. Deb Jones says

    December 8, 2021 at 1:24 pm

    Since New Zealand is made up of Islands, I would suggest it. It is also a country so you are getting several benefit. I have never been there but would love to go. There are so many things to see & it definitely fits your requirements. I want to go to Hawaii too, but if I look at your requirement list there is very little about Hawaii that isn’t touristy. NZ has tourists but it isn’t their main point of income.

    Reply

Primary Sidebar

The Because Fiction Podcast

The Because Fiction Podcast
The Because Fiction Podcast

Taking the pulse of Christian fiction

Episode 506: A Chat with Suzanne Woods Fisher
byChautona Havig

The charming Amish district of Stoney Ridge has new residents. Listen in as Suzanne Woods Fisher and I chat about this latest book, A Hidden Hope, and the fun she had writing it.

note: links may be affiliate links that provide me with a small commission at no extra expense to you.

Chats with Suzanne Woods Fisher are always lovely. We talked about this book and about her love of writing about outsiders and how they find their place in the world.

A Hidden Hope by Suzanne Woods Fisher

With the arrival of three unexpected newcomers to Stoney Ridge comes an array of secrets and emotions brewing just beneath the surface. Supervising two newly minted medical residents might be the toughest challenge Ruth “Dok” Stoltzfus has ever faced. Wren Baker, sharp and ambitious, graduated at the top of medical school with a hidden agenda in tow. Charlie King, at the bottom of the class, is determined to succeed–though Dok isn’t convinced he’s got what it takes. Then there’s traveling nurse Evie Miller, whose quiet love for Charlie doesn’t go unnoticed, especially by Wren. Boarding at Windmill Farm, the trio struggles to balance modern medicine with Plain living. Between medical emergencies, cultural misunderstandings, and brewing romantic tensions, Dok finds herself juggling far more than she bargained for. Soon the stage is set in the small Amish community of Stoney Ridge for plenty of professional and personal complications. PRAISE FOR A HEALING TOUCH “The author perceptively sketches her characters’ emotional arcs as life’s challenges yield unexpected gifts, speaking to the power of second chances, faith, and love.”–Publishers Weekly

You can learn more about Suzanne from her WEBSITE. Also, follow her on BookBub and GoodReads.

Like to listen on the go? You can find Because Fiction Podcast at:

  • Apple
  • Castbox
  • Google Play
  • Libsyn
  • RSS
  • Spotify
  • Amazon
  • and more!
Episode 506: A Chat with Suzanne Woods Fisher
Episode 506: A Chat with Suzanne Woods Fisher
January 12, 2026
Chautona Havig
Episode:505 A Chat with Becca Wierwille
January 10, 2026
Chautona Havig
Episode 504: A Chat with Julie Klassen
January 5, 2026
Chautona Havig
Episode 503: A Chat with Megan Soja
January 3, 2026
Chautona Havig
Episode 502: A Chat with Kelli Galyean
December 1, 2025
Chautona Havig
Episode 501: A Chat with Heidi Gray McGill
November 30, 2025
Chautona Havig
Episode 500: A Chat with Joy Crain
November 29, 2025
Chautona Havig
Episode 499: A Chat with Jessica Wakefield
November 28, 2025
Chautona Havig
Episode 498: A Chat with Sarah Hanks
November 27, 2025
Chautona Havig
Episode 497: A Chat with Michael E. Cafferky
November 26, 2025
Chautona Havig
Search Results placeholder

Love Audio Books?

audio book ad

Featured Books

Be My Inspiration

Be My Inspiration

Pointed Suspicion

Pointed Suspicion
Buy This Book Online
Purchase with Paypal
Buy from Amazon
Buy from Amazon Kindle
Pointed Suspicion
Buy now!

Courting Miss Darling

Courting Miss Darling

Upcoming Posts

Sorry - nothing planned yet!

Or just subscribe to the newsletter

Recent Blog Posts

  • So, There Was That Time I Forgot What I Knew…
  • “Be Careful Little Mouth What You Say” Ain’t No Lie
  • Why Romance Is a Hairy Proposition (or is that proposal?)

I buy my stickers here! (affiliate)

Custom Stickers, Die Cut Stickers, Bumper Stickers - Sticker Mule
Git a Christmas gift today. Aren't they lovely? An Git a Christmas gift today. Aren't they lovely? And such a satisfying click! Helen Franklin from #TheAgencyFiles would approve.  Also, a total clue for #TakeCover.
Thanks @krististapler
When a dream come true (her own bookstore, YES PLE When a dream come true (her own bookstore, YES PLEASE!) turns into a money pit (no thank you!), Harper Brevig concedes impending defeat and calls the "bookstore doctor" to help her figure out why a bustling business is bleeding money and how to fix it. From snarky bookish T-shirts (Harper) to "parenting tips" learned on the fly (Noah--a new friend and reluctant store patron), to book recommendations (from Milton, of course),
Twice Sold Tales is hopping with fun characters and packed with fabulous books. FREE through 1/14/26 and always "free" through Kindle Unlimited.
Audiobook narrated by the fabulous @ChristaDelSorbo coming soon!
#ChristFic
#BookBub
#BookishBooks
#KindleFree
#KindleUnlimited
https://www.amazon.com/Twice-Sold-Tales-Bookstrings-Book-ebook/dp/B0BLKCDYKR
One of my favorite characters is a grumpy, rather One of my favorite characters is a grumpy, rather harsh curmudgeon who shows up in quite a few Fairbury books. Neal Kirkpatrick. I told his story in New Year's Revolutions, but that cover and title never worked for the story, so he got a makeover. We all need a refresh now and then, right?
Redeeming Neal Jerk-Patrick is more than a comedic look at one man's entire life overhauling because he fell for a gal who loves Jesus before all else. But that's a pretty fun part of it.
If you've read Christmas Stalkings and ever wondered how Neal got those kittens... it's all in here!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N001JDC/
#KindleUnlimited
#ChristFic
#ChristianRomance
When a dream come true (her own bookstore, YES PLE When a dream come true (her own bookstore, YES PLEASE!) turns into a money pit (no thank you!), Harper Brevig concedes impending defeat and calls the "bookstore doctor" to help her figure out why a bustling business is bleeding money and how to fix it. From snarky bookish T-shirts (Harper) to "parenting tips" learned on the fly (Noah--a new friend and reluctant store patron), to book recommendations (from Milton, of course),
Twice Sold Tales is hopping with fun characters and packed with fabulous books. FREE through 1/14/26 and always "free" through Kindle Unlimited.
Audiobook narrated by the fabulous @ChristaDelSorbo coming soon!
#ChristFic
#BookBub
#BookishBooks
#KindleFree
#KindleUnlimited
https://www.amazon.com/Twice-Sold-Tales-Bookstrings-Book-ebook/dp/B0BLKCDYKR
One of my favorite characters is a grumpy, rather One of my favorite characters is a grumpy, rather harsh curmudgeon who shows up in quite a few Fairbury books. Neal Kirkpatrick. I told his story in New Year's Revolutions, but that cover and title never worked for the story, so he got a makeover. We all need a refresh now and then, right?
Redeeming Neal Jerk-Patrick is more than a comedic look at one man's entire life overhauling because he fell for a gal who loves Jesus before all else. But that's a pretty fun part of it.
If you've read Christmas Stalkings and ever wondered how Neal got those kittens... it's all in here!
https://www.amazon.com/dp/B01N001JDC/
#KindleUnlimited
#ChristFic
#ChristianRomance
The indie bookstore was nearing extinction, but Mi The indie bookstore was nearing extinction, but Milton is determined to save them, one book and store at a time. With his trusty sidekick parrotlet Atticus (not Finch), he'll ressucitate even the most unsalvagable stores somehow!
Narrated by the FABULOUS Christa DelSorbo, Spines & Leaves is availble FREE on YouTube at  and on all major audiobook retailers.
#FreeAudiobooks
#KindleUnlimited
#ChristFic
#ChristianFiction
#BookishBooks
When a dream come true (her own bookstore, YES PLE When a dream come true (her own bookstore, YES PLEASE!) turns into a money pit (no thank you!), Harper Brevig concedes impending defeat and calls the "bookstore doctor" to help her figure out why a bustling business is bleeding money and how to fix it. From snarky bookish T-shirts (Harper) to "parenting tips" learned on the fly (Noah--a new friend and reluctant store patron), to book recommendations (from Milton, of course),
Twice Sold Tales is hopping with fun characters and packed with fabulous books. FREE through 1/14/26 and always "free" through Kindle Unlimited.
Audiobook narrated by the fabulous @ChristaDelSorbo coming soon!
#ChristFic
#BookBub
#BookishBooks
#KindleFree
#KindleUnlimited
https://www.amazon.com/Twice-Sold-Tales-Bookstrings-Book-ebook/dp/B0BLKCDYKR
  • Home
  • Bookshelf
  • New & Coming
  • Blog
  • News!
  • Disclosure & Policies
  • Privacy Policy

Copyright © 2026 · Chautona Havig · All Rights Reserved · Coding by Gretchen Louise

Don't go before you grab your FREE short story collection!