What I wish for is that each Katherine Center novel would never end!
Samantha Casey loves everything about her job as an elementary school librarian. But when the school suddenly loses its beloved principal, it turns out his replacement will be none other than Duncan Carpenter—a former crush of Sam’s. When Duncan shows up, he’s nothing like the sweet teacher she once swooned over.
Center’s characters and their situations are so real, that she never fails to draw me into their stories. I related to Sam because of her medical condition as my son has the same condition. Duncan’s past (while I could see that explanation coming) was heartbreaking but relatable because we’ve seen that scenario played out so much lately. I loved the slow and steady pace of the romance, as I hate the wham-bam-thank-you-ma’am romances. The history between Sam and Duncan is believable and made their reconnection believable as well. As an animal lover, I related to one scene near the end. I won’t say more, but I had a hard time reading through tears.
The following quotes are a small sample of the powerful words Center used to tell this story. Each grabbed my attention because during such uncertain times, I needed the reminder.
“It’s a choice … A choice to value the good things that matter. A choice to rise above everything that could pull you down. A choice to look misery right in the eyes … and then give it the finger.”
“But that’s the thing about joy. You don’t have to wait for it to happen. You can make it happen.”
“Life is full of danger. Terrible things happen all the time. That doesn’t mean you live your life in fear.”
Tears and laughter throughout this story allowed this reader to close this book a happy reader. So, Ms. Center, when does your next book come out? I’m ready and waiting!
I received an UNCORRECTED proof of What You Wish For from St. Martin’s Press in exchange for my honest review. Thanks for another great one SMP!
Rating: 4 stars
Reviewer: Jennifer
Title: What You Wish For
Author: Katherine Center
Release Date: July 14, 2020
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