Sunday, March 22, 2015

This Heart of Mine (Whiskey Creek #8) by Brenda Novak

Contemporary Romance

From Goodreads:

First love. Second chance?

As the daughter of a hoarder, Phoenix Fuller had a tough childhood. So when the handsome, popular Riley Stinson became her boyfriend in high school, she finally felt as though she had something to be proud of. Phoenix was desperate not to lose him—especially once she found out she was pregnant. Yes, she might have acted a bit obsessive when he broke up with her. But she did not run down the girl he started dating next!

Unfortunately, there was no way to prove her innocence. Now, after serving her time in prison, Phoenix has been released. All she wants to do is return to Whiskey Creek and get to know her son. But Jacob's father isn't exactly welcoming.

Riley doesn't trust Phoenix, doesn't want her in Jacob's life. He is, however, ready to find someone to love. And he wants a good mother for his son. He has no idea that he's about to find both—if they can forgive the mistakes in their past.

Phoenix has been a much-mentioned character in the Whiskey Creek series but this is the first time to meet her in person.  She was not what I expected.  Instead of being slightly crazed and obsessive she is very centered.  After spending 17 years in prison for a crime she did not commit she is not bitter but focused on living her life in the present.  She is very very strong.

Riley did not expect to find her admirable.  Of course that did not happen right away but over the course of the book.  Jacob, their son, accepts her on their first meeting. 

This is a really great story about love and forgiveness between two people with a very difficult past.  Brenda Novak gets great marks for making Phoenix such a great and admirable character.  It goes on my keeper and re-read shelf.

I think I saw a hook for Kyle’s story.  See what you think.  I guess time will tell.

Mira published This Heart of Mine by Brenda Novak in 2015.


I received an ARC of This Heart of Mine from Netgalley in return for an honest review.

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