Courtney Lykins
My. Word. I finished this one a few days ago, but Cody, Lou, and Maggie won't leave my heart. I thought I could give it some time to let my love settle so I could find the words, but it simply isn't happening. This was my first Courtney Walsh novel, but I adored it. The setting was wonderful. I want to go to Nantucket, like, * now *. And the message of forgiveness was just TOO GOOD. Beautifully done. The journey that Cody and Louisa take as a couple is fantastic in its own right, but their individual growth throughout the novel makes their story all the sweeter. Plus, the swoon level? Off the charts. Why did no one tell me that Walsh wrote romances like this?! (I know. You did. I'm just now listening. That's my bad.) Fans of emotional romances will not want to miss this one. If you enjoy Denise Hunter's offerings, you'll love this book. Strong but not overpowering elements of faith, swoon-worthy romance, and emotions for days. This book is the good stuff, friends. I received a complimentary copy of this novel from the publisher via NetGalley. All expressed opinions belong to me.
Kristina Barnes
Is It Any Wonder by Courtney Walsh is the second book in the Nantucket Love Story series. Louisa and Cody’s story is a story of atonement, forgiveness, and second chances. It is unique, original, and entertaining while being genuine, raw, and heart-wrenching. You will feel a vast array of emotions while you journey through the past with Louisa and Cody all the while having the opportunity to experience the beauty and magic of Nantucket. Louisa is wonderful. Beautiful, creative, and a habitual space cadet, it wasn’t difficult to fall in love with her right away. I can’t count the times I laughed out loud at the thoughts spinning in her head--especially the ones about a certain member of the Coast Guard. I wish I could tour Nantucket with Louisa as my guide, creating her magic as only she can do. And Cody. Oh, Cody. It’s been a while since I’ve fallen this hard for a fictional hero. (Although, I’ve always had a thing for the brooding hero.) He’s a bit grumpy. A bit tight-lipped. But when you get a glimpse of him--the real him--it’s golden. He’s hunky, yes, but it’s the gradual softening of his heart and his honest view of Louisa that stole my heart completely. Cody is the Coastie with the Mostie! (Sorry, I couldn’t help myself!) Bottom line: read this book. Let yourself fall for the characters, feel all the emotions, and love every minute. Any fan of contemporary Christian fiction will LOVE this story. I was given a copy of this book by Netgalley with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.