By 
Nicola Harrison, the Author of “HOTEL LAGUNA,” has written an intriguing and captivating novel. The genres for this novel are Historical Fiction, World War Two, Romance, and Fiction. This is a well-written and well-researched book. Nicola Harrison vividly describes the scenery in California, the dress code for the times, and the dramatic and colorful characters. The characters are complex, complicated, secretive, creative, and quirky.
In 1942, the story’s protagonist, Hazel Francis, leaves her hometown in Kansas for California to help the war effort. Hazel works on aircraft bombers for the United States Military. She is like “Rosie the Riveter.” Once the war ends and the men return home, Hazel is out of a job. The expectations of the times are that women will be wives and mothers.
Hazel winds up in Laguna Beach and finds work as an “assistant” to a famous artist, Hanson Radcliff, who is talented, temperamental, and eccentric. He has secrets from the past that he regrets. Laguna Beach is known for its artists. There is a pageant held that the community works on. There is the Hotel Laguna, which has an amazing ocean view, and a handsome bartender who catches Hazel’s eye.
Hazel loves Laguna Beach but also misses working on airplanes. There are decisions for her to make. There is suspense and mystery, betrayals, and secrets. I highly recommend this memorable and thought-provoking novel.
Linda's Book Obsession: 