Memories of the Heart

River Falls #3

by Valerie M. Bodden

Their marriage is already falling apart. So when she loses her memories of their life together... can he make her fall in love all over again?

Abigail thought marrying Simeon was her chance to start over. To be a better person. To forget the sins of her past. The sins Simeon knows nothing about. But after a series of devastating losses, she knows those sins are catching up with her—and they’re hurting Simeon too. If he learns the truth now, he’ll send her packing. Just like her family did. Better that she push him away first.

As a Christian counselor, Simeon should be able to help his wife cope with the losses they’ve suffered. And it’s killing him that he can’t. It seems like the more he tries, the harder she pushes him away. He’s determined to save their marriage... but what if it’s already too late?

When an accident leaves Abigail with amnesia, stealing her memories of their life together, will it be the end of their marriage? Or is God giving them a second chance to build a love even stronger than they remember?

Genres: Romance, Christian Fiction, Fiction, Contemporary

340 pages, Paperback

Published April 20, 2023

About the author

I have three great loves: Jesus, my family, and books. And chocolate (okay, four great loves). I write fast-paced, emotional Christian fiction that weaves real-life problems, real-life people, and real-life faith. My characters may (okay, will) experience some heartache along the way, but I promise I'll always give them a happy ending.

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Reviews

[Karly Jo (Christian Booktuber) · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.25⭐️ i loved this!!!!! (minus a star because of the amnesia trope, but i didn’t mind this one as much as i normally do) the faith elements in this one were stronger and the mmc was AMAZING!

[Stox4story · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heartfelt, Heart Wrenching … faith, love, choices

If you want all consuming, this is your book…. It gives hope while it breaks your heart. Abigail has a past, one that haunts her, mentally and emotionally. She’s not who everyone thinks she is. She almost convinces herself that the lies that protect is her true self… and in a way they are…. at least now they are. But the past has a way of reveling itself. Choices have to be made. Abigail can face her past, allow her ‘family’ to know who she was but is no longer…. or she can run. Choices, choices…. it’s all about choices. Not only for Abagail but for her new ‘family’, especially Simeon, the one who holds her heart. They ‘lived’ their faith, didn’t just talk it.

🤔 HMMMMM….. More Thoughts

✒︎ Wendy is one devious person Some people have to fall flat on their face before changing. She goes after who and what she wants regardless of who it hurts. Wanted to see her have to look in the mirror.

✒︎ There’s got to me more to this story. Abigail’s parents???? Maybe Abigail’s tell it all novel will make them face some consequences. I hope so.

✒︎ After reading Ava’s and Jordan’s story in ‘Pieces of Forever’, I thought no way the next book could top it. But then I got Lydia’s heart wrenching story in ‘Songs of Home’ and it was every bit as good. (I still want to ‘see’ Lydia’s backstabbing betrayers get booed off stage and forced to face what they did.) Now after reading ‘Memories of the Heart’, I’m all in with this River Falls series, I’m sold. I don’t know how the author keeps it up, how she keeps putting out these sweet, heartfelt books of faith, love and real life hurts and pains.

✒︎ Wondered about Garrett. Have we heard the last of him?

✒︎ Would love to see a followup book on all the betrayers in this and past books having to deal with the consequences of their choices. King David was a man after G_d’s own heart but he still suffered consequences of his bad choices.

[Jaycies · Rating 5 out of 5]

I'm beginning to think I'll continually be saying to myself "once again, I love this author!"

In this third book in the River Falls series, the story is about another member of the large Calvano family (which since I'm an only child, I'm always fascinated by the dynamics of large families). Simeon, one of the sons, and Abigail have the perfect marriage. At least it seems to be. Until the foundation they had built their marriage on starts to crumble.

Abigail has a secret that she has never shared with Simeon and she's certain when/if she does, he'll walk away and disown her, just as her parents did. So, the best thing is to force him to leave her first or walk away, rather than share what is tearing her up inside.

Simeon, being a therapist by profession, is perplexed why his wife is pushing him away and like most husbands, even minus this profession, tries his best to do what he thinks she needs; what will make things right again even though he has no idea what the problems are caused by.

And then there's the accident.

There were many times that I was white-knuckling it and forgetting simple things like towels to be folded in the dryer, watering my plants, taking the dogs out... oops.

The "secret" is not revealed until almost the end of the book so guessing what it might be while I was reading did not work! (So, don't even try!)

As I've learned with Valerie's books, there is always a lesson for us all.

*How a marriage does not survive if based on secrets.

*About how much God loves us.

*About how there is nothing that can snatch us from God's hands. No matter what mistakes we make.

*How much it hurts Him when we try in our stubbornness to push Him away.

If you're looking for just a Christian romance story with the theme of "boy finds girl, boy gets girl, boy loses girl, boy gets girl back", this is not it.

I CANNOT wait until her fifth in this series, "Promises of Mercy", to be released in April of 2025!

Highly recommend!

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Memories of the Heart is absolutely packed full of emotion and many difficult truths that the main characters must come to terms with. It deals with miscarriages and the emotional toll that they can take on a woman, as well as on a marriage. When the story began, Abigail could hardly function. It was difficult to read about the sadness she was experiencing. But even more than the sadness, she was weighed down with guilt built on her belief that the miscarriages were her punishment for her horrible past that Simeon knew nothing about.

Although the accident that stole Abigail’s memories was tragic for the whole family, the novel absolutely grabbed me from that moment on. It was eye opening to see how dedicated Simeon was to helping Abigail heal both physically and mentally from the event. And when it seemed that nothing was working to bring back her memories and that Abigail was overwhelmed, Simeon took the advice of their counselor and worked toward getting to know the new Abigail.

Abigail and Simeon went through so much in this story, but they definitely came out on the other side as a stronger couple, as well as stronger in their relationships with the Lord. The author did a wonderful job of weaving Biblical guidance into the story in a natural way, and those truths helped bring further healing to Abigail.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, however, I ended up reading this novel through Kindle Unlimited. All opinions are my own.

You can read this review on my blog:
https://brittreadsfiction.wordpress.c...

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don't know how she does it but every book I read just gets better and better!
This is the story of Abigail and Simeon. They met in Ecuador when she was sent there by her parents to hide the shame she has caused their family. They hit it off immediately and got married. Unbeknownst to Simeon all that Abigail had done. Fast forward…Abigail is depressed, because they have been trying to have children and she has miscarried several times. Simeon, such a sweet husband, just wants to encourage and love his wife. He doesn’t care if they have children, but he wants to please his wife. He recommended they put in for adoption. Abigail gets scared as she knows her wicked past is going to come out. She visits the lawyers and they draw up divorce papers as she knows that he will divorce her once he finds out. She gets in a car accident and looses all of her memory. She doesn’t know Simeon, or his family. It takes quite some time for her to get to know Simeon and trust him…she loves his family immediately. This story is a book of love, trust and redemption. Such a beautiful picture the Valerie brings out in this story. Beautifully written. It was my honor to be on her advanced reader team.

[Carol J · Rating 5 out of 5]

God's ways and plans are so much higher than ours so that we cannot fathom them
Simeon and Abigail's love story is breathtaking. He is a Christian Counselor and she works in a bookstore. They have been married for five years. She is very depressed. She has lived a hard life. When she is in an accident, she has amnesia. Simeon loves her so much he will do anything to help her. He is patient with her. He has a large family and his dad is the Pastor of their Church. Be still and trust on the Lord. It wasn't about finding a way to fix everything it was about trusting that God was in control even in the storm. Be still my soul, your God will undertake to guide the future as has he has the past. There is one love that never fails: God's love. Striding toward what is ahead I press on toward the goal to win the prize for which God has called me heavenward in Christ Jesus.

Valerie has written a blessed story about being a Christian Counselor, working in a bookstore, having amnesia, and loving your spouse so much you will do anything and forgive anything. I recommend this and all of Valerie's books to everyone. I received this book from the publisher. All thoughts and comments are my own.

[J. Gilmour · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance reader copy of the book by the author to review.

Abigail has a troubled past and has suffered three miscarriages. She longs to have children. Abigail feels that God cannot forgive her past. While driving her sister-in-law to a dress store, she gets into a terrible car accident and develops amnesia. Her sister-in-law passes away.

Simeon is a compassionate counselor who enjoys helping people with their relationships. He loves Abigail very much and wants to help her with her depression. Simeon also wants children and suggests adoption. After the car accident, he works with Abigail to help her remember their life together. After a colleague counsels them, Simeon decides that he and Abigail should get to know each other again to start fresh. At certain times under Simeon's tender care, Abigail experiences a memory of the heart, and they develop a more loving relationship. Then something comes up that may hurt the loving relationship that they have been working towards.

I enjoyed this moving, tenderhearted story of love and forgiveness. This story touched my heart!

[Lynn Sell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is Abigail and Simeon’s story. This married couple have been through a lot in their marriage with miscarriages. The last one devastated Abigail. She and Simeon are drifting apart. They decide to explore adoption as a possibility which increases Abigail’s fear that Simeon will find out about her past. She decides that it would be better to file for divorce but gets into a severe accident and has amnesia. Now Simeon and Abigail need to rediscover each other and their love.

This author pulls you into her stories from the beginning. Her stories are real and the story lines are great. These are strong characters who go through struggles and find their way through to the other side. You feel part of the family. I love Pastor Calvano’s sermons because they always seem to apply to something that is going on In my life. This author is one of my favorites to read. I am a ARC reader for an honest review about the book.

[Sherry Deatrick · Rating 4 out of 5]

I know that Valerie Bodden is an exception writer. I have always enjoyed her books. But I must admit I almost quit this book early on. I was sure I knew what was going to happen and truthfully didn't want to go through the pain that Abigail and Simeon were headed toward.
But every time I thought I'd quit, something happened in the story that I hadn't expected so I kept reading. This happened several times until I was so invested, I really couldn't stop reading.
It is a very emotional story. But I love the way the author handled it. There were so many spiritual lessons about love, marriage and family. But I think the overarching theme is about hope.
It is so well written! Read it! You'll be glad you did.
Thank you to the author for allowing me to read an ARC of this book The opinions are entirely my own

[Carol Brandon · Rating 5 out of 5]

If I could give it more stars, I would. This is my favourite book written by Valerie. To be honest, romances are not my favourite genre, although I like them. At first I wondered if the story would be trite, and how the situation could fill a book. That quickly changed! I got sucked right into the story. I appreciated the open Christianity expressed in the book, and the demonstration of God’s live through Simeon’s relationship with his wife. It will cause you to examine your own life, as you journey with Simeon and Abigail. It was not forced, but was a natural part of their relationship. You will cry at the end! Happy tears. I underlined parts that resonated with me, and that I want to remember! How often does that happen, in a novel?! I received a free copy of this book, with no obligation.

[Kgsi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Powerful Story of Love and Forgiveness

I struggled at first with this novel, it was painful to read about Abigail’s trauma and consequent depression, as well as Simeon’s constant attempts to make everything okay. It was sad and heavy and yet there was so much more to come…

Abigail’s amnesia became a gift, not something to be wasted. Watching the two of them learn anew about each other - Simeon so steady and having to hold back, learning to accept Abigail for who she was in the present, and Abigail falling in love, was so refreshing and hope filled. Then it all came together with the most beautiful picture of Jesus meeting them in the storm, and so much forgiveness and love to be given! I have paragraphs and pages highlighted for the beautiful power of the lessons of Truth! Thank you, Valerie for such a story!

[My Introvert Bookish Life · Rating 4 out of 5]

Forgiveness and second chances

This story was heartfelt in every way, with undertones of forgiveness, love and second chances. I’ll admit it was hard to fully embrace Abigail at first, isn’t when we see things about ourselves that we harshly judge others? I truly felt for her, her grief and depression was written so realistically. Simeon was a God-send of a man, and embodied so much of what God wants of a husband in a relationship. He and Abigail were meant for each other.
It was a joy to see the whole Calvano family together, each with their own struggles and victories through Christ Jesus. As always the scriptures quoted and messages accompanying the sermons are timely and relevant.
I’m so happy to have discovered Valerie M. Bodden as a Christ centred romance writer. It’s been a pleasure.

4.5 🌟🌟🌟🌟

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Incredible story of God’s guidance through life, even the most challenging things. We all make some choices in our lives that have unintended consequences. Abigail had that plus being ostracized for her choices. Sent to Ecuador and working at a mission she found her second chance. Unfortunately, her past affects her present and future, and her inability to trust God has her making more questionable choices. God uses all this to guide her to be the person He wants her to be where she has a wonderful husband and family. Heavy start to the story would likely have me not finishing it, but it is an ARC and I agreed to read it. Glad, as it’s a heartwarming, inspirational read.

Received ARC and this is my honest review.

[Margaret Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the third book in Bodden’s River Falls series. If you are able to read the earlier books in the series, it is helpful in figuring out the various characters who show up in this one, the story of Simeon Calvano and his wife Abigail. Their love goes through a lot (but I don’t want to mention details because that would give away some major plot twists). It is gut-wrenching and tense at times. There are great insights into what true love is and how it is lived out in a marriage. There were times I didn’t want to keep reading because I was afraid of what was coming, but thankfully Bodden resolves things well and in a believable way.

I received a complimentary copy from the publisher and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

[Trudy Cordle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved Simeon and Abigail's story!! Abigail and Simeon have been married for years. After three miscarriages, Abigail is sure that this is God's punishment for her sins, which are the secrets she's kept from Simeon since the day they met. She's sure that once Simeon knows the truth, he'll leave her. She decides she's got to leave first. When some unforeseen things happen, will they be able to over come the trouble, or will the trouble push them even further apart?? I love the way Abigail falls in love with Simeon all over again, and that she finally realizes that both God and Simeon love her, just the way she is, broken past and all.

I received a complimentary copy of this book, was not required to leave a review, and the opinion expressed is my own.

[Becky Collins · Rating 5 out of 5]

Abigail had met Simeon on a mission trip and fell in love rather quickly. Simeon was a counselor and yet he couldn’t get Abigail past whatever was haunting her. Abigail had several miscarriages and she felt it was due to her past but she was scared of losing Simeon if he found out. Living in River Falls with all of his family around them and new pregnancies with his family she was devastated.

She had decided it would be better just to divorce and move on but then a terrible car crash happened and things changed. I love the messages that Simeon’s father preaches and hopefully he can reach Abigail.

I received this ARC from the author for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Vickie Escalante · Rating 5 out of 5]

Poignant and inspirational!

This book was more hard-hitting than Valerie’s previous books and had me reaching for tissues several times. The issues Abigail faces to some might seem “over the top” or excessive”, but reading it from the eyes of one who has witnessed many friends run from God and His grace due to their life choices, her reactions were spot on. Simeon was a dear husband, fighting for his wife, his marriage, and his work all while trying not to fall apart himself. Add family tragedy and I wasn’t sure how I’d get through the book let alone them! But again, Valerie shows us timeless biblical truths and ushers her characters towards grace, forgiveness, love, and beauty.

I was provided an advanced copy of this book and all opinions are strictly my own.

[Rhondia Cannon · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you need a breather from daily life, a reminder of hope beyond your efforts, read Memories of the Heart. It reframes our overuse of “love” and puts proper emphasis on the Author and Finisher of our faith who loves beyond reason. Get your hankie out and prepare for some deep introspection and (ultimately) joy as Ms Bodden does the heavy lifting of explaining life through the eyes of her characters. Breathe them in as they struggle and triumph, not as people with no trials but as people who rely on Someone greater than themselves. I received an advance copy of this book and this is my honest opinion.

[Sandra Hartzel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had an ARC for this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Abigail married Simeon after a relatively short time knowing him. She thought it was her chance to start over, but after an accident leaves her with amnesia, she doesn’t remember him or anything about her past. As she gets to know him again she falls in love all over. She also doesn’t remember her past sins or the miscarriages she suffered. Simeon is a Christian counselor, but is not able to help his wife and he sets them up with a friend for counseling. A great book about relationships, dealing with past sin, and forgiveness.

[Seyi Aderinola · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautifully told story about real life struggles in marriages and how the past can take the present hostage. I felt it all with this book! Such strong emotions - this book tells the story of Simeon and Abigail but it is ultimately the story of God and us, His unending love for us and active pursuit of us even when we feel and know we don't deserve for Him to stick with us. Valerie Bodden's writing is so descriptive that it felt like watching a movie rather than reading a book except, of course, I could tell what was going on in the mind of the characters. With huge thanks for an ARC, all opinions are mine!

[SJ Garrison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved Simeon and Abigail's story. Abigail had lived a past no one knew about and it was eating her up. Simeon was watching his wife go deeper into depression after the 3 miscarriage. He was helpless to help and she was desperate to leave before he discovered her lies. Wow oh wow, what a gripping story. I don't want to tell you anymore and spoil anything as the veil gets stripped away bit by bit for the audience to see. I will say you will witness a true patient love. If you like clean heartfelt stories you will find that here and even more. I highly recommend 'Memories of the Heart'. I received this book from the publisher. The thoughts and comments are my own.

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

Abigail was a woman with secrets that had finally caught up to her but an automobile accident she was in caused her to lose her memories and she and her husband, Simeon, were forced to start their relationship all over again. This book was full of drama and a few very sad occurrences but the amazing love and commitment that Simeon showed during it all shone out in a powerful way and helped me read through the hard stuff. It was a gripping story with a strong Christian faith element and a sweet HEA. I enjoyed reading it. I received an ARC from the author and this voluntary review contains my honest opinions.

[Suzette Lawes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Memories Don't Live Like People Do

In the tapestry of human relationships, Simeon and Abigail's journey reveals the transformative power of forgiveness. Their love transcended individual shortcomings, recognizing that true connection requires compassion and understanding. By embracing each other's imperfections and choosing grace over judgment, they embodied the profound biblical wisdom of endless mercy.

Their family became a living testament to resilience and unconditional love, demonstrating how healing emerges when people choose to release the weight of past hurts. Through their commitment to mutual understanding, they not only rebuilt their own bond but also illuminated a path of reconciliation for others to follow.

[Diana Acord · Rating 5 out of 5]

Memories of the Heart follows the emotional journey of Simeon and Abigail Calvano. This wonderful story discusses several difficult topics in their marriage including miscarriage, depression, tragic accident leading to amnesia and finally to God’s and Simeon’s forgiveness for past mistakes. This is one of the best books I have read in quite some time. I believe there will be something in this story that has an effect on each reader.

Received an advance copy and this is my honest review (6 stars if I could).

[Adpa · Rating 4 out of 5]

Another good book by Valerie Bodden; a bit longer than other books of hers that I have read. Because of my personal reading preference, I give it a 4.5 instead of a full 5 star rating.
Simeon is a counselor--this is where my half rating came into play. I read to "escape," not to dwell on others' issues through counseling.
The book itself was well written and gives much faith-based advice in the story. I love how Pastor Calvano gives such practical life applications, many of them personal, to his sermons.
I was provided an ARC by the author. This review is my personal opinion

[Evelyn Foreman · Rating 5 out of 5]

As I continue to follow this author, I realize how blessed I am by her writings. I enjoy the story, definitely, but I am also uplifted throughout by the consistent reminder I am loved, I am forgiven. Such is the case in the life of Abigail as she struggles to come to terms with her past, enduring amnesia, yet being constantly reminded of not only Simeon’s love but even greater, the love of our Father. Inspiration is taken to a whole new level, hungrily reading each word, each scenario. Be encouraged as you allow the message of this book to grip your very heart, your very soul.

[Debbie Eyre · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an incredible read, one that you will definitely need a box of tissues and a large cup of coffee for. Abigail has a deep dark past, one that she is ashamed of and one that no one not even her own husband knows about. Simeon is a lovely man who just wants to support his wife who he loves more than anything when tragedy befalls them and Abigail is in an accident and loses her memory. It’s a wonderfully well written story of trust, faith, love, forgiveness and redemption and yes it had me balling like a baby in places and had an ending that left me with a smile.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I always love books by Valerie Bodden. I started this one as an advanced readers copy. I had to stop for a few weeks due to the car accident written about in the book being so close to the death of a young girl I knew in a car accident. The car accident scene in the book was too vivid for me at the moment. I guess I should have asked, but the car accident is not the main focus of the book, but the amnesia is for the main character. Val is always able to paint such an amazing picture with her words. I always recommend these books to friends for an easy, lighthearted read.

[Darlene · Rating 5 out of 5]

Yet another amazing novel

I have loved every single book Valerie has written. (She became my favorite author about a dozen books ago) I don’t know how I found the first one I read but each and every book has delivered soul nourishing words about relationships, healing, spiritual guidance, community and unique romances.
The characters are oh so alive with great depth of character and personality. Realistic and yet uniquely exciting circumstances and obstacles to overcome. All while keeping a firm foundation in Christ’s love for all of His children.

[Kathy Brockmeier · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have never read a book by this author that I didn’t like. She amazes me how she weaves characters who actually live their Christian values into such an interesting narrative. So many Christian books have no depth to them, they seem to follow some pre determined formula but that certainly isn’t true of this author. I find her books to be original and with characters you actually care about. They challenge me to live my life to reflect God! Keep writing Valerie, I’m all caught up on all your books and am looking forward to your next ones!