ABOUT THE BOOK
Devorah Campbell’s life falls apart under the pressure of one truth: her husband is having an affair with her best friend. So Devorah packs up her daughter and their shared heartbreak for small-town Oyster Bay, where she grew up. Her relationship with her father is still on the rocks, but Devorah has her brother there—and, unexpectedly, her brother’s best friend.
Hayden McKenna lost his wife a year ago and has struggled with single fatherhood ever since. Moving back home with his son is a last but best resort, a chance to start fresh, surrounded by family and old friends. But when Hayden runs into Devorah, his childhood crush, sparks fly as bright as ever. If only he could make her see them too…
Amid a swirl of hurt and healing, Devorah and Hayden grow closer, rekindling what they had all those years ago to discover that, sometimes, a new start means going back to the beginning.
MY REVIEW
There’s a moment in everyone’s life when their world crumbles around them.
This incredible story took me on a rollercoaster of emotions. It centers around Devorah, a character I absolutely fell in love with as she navigates her heart-wrenching journey of heartbreak and healing.
Devorah’s experience is one many might relate to, including me. At first, Devorah is stuck in her feelings, literally staying in bed, deep in that all-too-familiar pit of despair. But just when things seemed bleak, her fierce love for her daughter ignites a spark within her. Her nasty soon-to-be ex-husband has kept her at a distance from loved ones, and watching her navigate the complexities of reconnecting is both heartbreaking and uplifting. I have to admit—reading about her efforts to mend things with her father was a personal tear-jerker. It’s so raw and real, and it tugged at my heartstrings in ways I wasn’t expecting.
Hayden is a gem of a character. His support and presence in Devorah’s life play a crucial role in her healing process. Their slow burn romance is simply delightful; it’s like watching a beautiful friendship blossom into something more. The author really nails the tension and connection between them, making every shared moment feel electric.
The small-town vibe is also a huge draw in this story. You know the kind of place where everyone knows everyone, and gossip runs rampant? Yep, that’s the backdrop, complete with the gossipy Cathys who spice things up! The sense of community adds layers to the story and brings warmth and depth to the story. You really feel for the families, including Devorah’s and Hayden’s, as they face life’s ups and downs together.
I recommend this poignant exploration of love, healing, and the messy but beautiful work of rebuilding relationships. Whether you’re on a similar journey or just looking for a compelling read, I highly recommend giving this one a shot.
Thank you to Ms. McLaughlin for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
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ABOUT THE AUTHOR
Originally, from the Pacific Northwest, she now lives in picturesque Vermont, with her husband, two daughters, and their three dogs.
In 2012, Heidi turned her passion for reading into a full-fledged literary career, writing over twenty novels, including the acclaimed Forever My Girl.
Heidi’s first novel, Forever My Girl, has been adapted into a motion picture with LD Entertainment and Roadside Attractions, starring Alex Roe and Jessica Rothe, and opened in theaters on January 19, 2018, and is now available on DVD & Digital.
Follow Heidi on her website, Facebook, Facebook Group, Twitter, Instagram, Goodreads, Goodreads Group, newsletter, YouTube, TikTok, and Bookbub.
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