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A Heart Like Home
Finding family is a journey of love, risk, secrets, and healing in a powerful novel by the bestselling author of A Brighter Flame, The Passing Storm, and The Road She Left Behind.
When Nova Doubeck is asked to foster two children, she can’t say no. With her own childhood wounds healed by adoptive parents, Nova understands the rewards of a caring guardian—even an impermanent one. But nine-year-old Henry and his seven-year-old sister, Bella, are more than Nova bargained for.
Combative Henry is at risk of becoming like his abusive father, Egan Croy. Timid Bella, clutching a tin box of treasures, cowers at the slightest noise. Yet Nova gradually earns their trust and affection as they bring unexpected love and joy to her guarded life. Now she can’t help but How will she stop her heart from breaking when the time comes to say goodbye?
As Egan aggressively battles to regain control over the children, Nova’s protective instincts prove just as fierce. In fighting to save Henry and Bella, she’ll unlock the secrets hidden in their past—and learn more about herself and the true meaning of family than anyone imagined.
When Nova Doubeck is asked to foster two children, she can’t say no. With her own childhood wounds healed by adoptive parents, Nova understands the rewards of a caring guardian—even an impermanent one. But nine-year-old Henry and his seven-year-old sister, Bella, are more than Nova bargained for.
Combative Henry is at risk of becoming like his abusive father, Egan Croy. Timid Bella, clutching a tin box of treasures, cowers at the slightest noise. Yet Nova gradually earns their trust and affection as they bring unexpected love and joy to her guarded life. Now she can’t help but How will she stop her heart from breaking when the time comes to say goodbye?
As Egan aggressively battles to regain control over the children, Nova’s protective instincts prove just as fierce. In fighting to save Henry and Bella, she’ll unlock the secrets hidden in their past—and learn more about herself and the true meaning of family than anyone imagined.
316 pages, Kindle Edition
Published April 16, 2024
1135 people are currently reading
18246 people want to read
About the author
Christine Nolfi
23 books4,060 followersChristine Nolfi is the award-winning and bestselling author of seventeen novels. Look for her 2025 release, The Secret Library of Hanna Reeves.
Other works include her 2024 release A Heart Like Home; A Brighter Flame, selected by She Reads as a best book club pick and The Passing Storm, cited by Publishers Weekly as “Tautly plotted, expertly characterized, and genuinely riveting” and gold medal winner in general fiction, International Book Awards.
Earlier works include The Road She Left Behind, a top book club pick by Working Mother and Parade magazines; the award-winning Sweet Lake Series: Sweet Lake, The Comfort of Secrets, and The Season of Silver Linings; Second Chance Grill, highly recommended by The Midwest Book Review and Treasure Me, recognized by the Next Generation Indie Awards. The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge was cited by The Midwest Book Review as “Poignant and powerful, as much a saga of learning to survive, heal, and forgive as it is a chilling crime story, unforgettable to the very end.”
A native of Ohio, Christine now resides in South Carolina with her husband.
Other works include her 2024 release A Heart Like Home; A Brighter Flame, selected by She Reads as a best book club pick and The Passing Storm, cited by Publishers Weekly as “Tautly plotted, expertly characterized, and genuinely riveting” and gold medal winner in general fiction, International Book Awards.
Earlier works include The Road She Left Behind, a top book club pick by Working Mother and Parade magazines; the award-winning Sweet Lake Series: Sweet Lake, The Comfort of Secrets, and The Season of Silver Linings; Second Chance Grill, highly recommended by The Midwest Book Review and Treasure Me, recognized by the Next Generation Indie Awards. The Tree of Everlasting Knowledge was cited by The Midwest Book Review as “Poignant and powerful, as much a saga of learning to survive, heal, and forgive as it is a chilling crime story, unforgettable to the very end.”
A native of Ohio, Christine now resides in South Carolina with her husband.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 205 reviews
April 11, 2024
Nova Doubeck was used to only fostering teens, so when Imani asked her to foster two siblings, much younger than she was used to, she knew she had no choice. She couldn't see these two abused children without a home. And it wasn't long before seven year old Bella wormed her way into Nova's heart. Henry was another story though - nine years old and needing to be tough, he didn't know who to trust. Bella's small box of treasures stayed with her constantly, while Nova did her best to keep the children safe and secure.
The children were granted supervised visits of an hour with their father, Egan Croy, and for awhile after those visits, the children acted out. They were both terrified of him, but did as he said so they didn't make him mad. They knew what would happen if he got mad. Bella and Henry started school with Bella loving it and making new friends. It took Henry longer; his confusion was obvious. And when it was summer, they had day camp which they enjoyed. But Nova was constantly on edge. Would Egan get his children back? Or would the courts stop that happening? Either way, Nova would lose the two children she'd grown to love.
A Heart Like Home is a heartwarming story by Christine Nolfi, showing that love and family can overcome anything. Nova was fiercely protective of her two charges, all the while knowing she could - probably would - lose them to an adoptive couple. I thoroughly enjoyed A Heart Like Home, as I have the other novels by this author; the characters are well-written, especially Bella and Henry - I just wanted to give them cuddles! A hugely satisfying novel, this is one I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
The children were granted supervised visits of an hour with their father, Egan Croy, and for awhile after those visits, the children acted out. They were both terrified of him, but did as he said so they didn't make him mad. They knew what would happen if he got mad. Bella and Henry started school with Bella loving it and making new friends. It took Henry longer; his confusion was obvious. And when it was summer, they had day camp which they enjoyed. But Nova was constantly on edge. Would Egan get his children back? Or would the courts stop that happening? Either way, Nova would lose the two children she'd grown to love.
A Heart Like Home is a heartwarming story by Christine Nolfi, showing that love and family can overcome anything. Nova was fiercely protective of her two charges, all the while knowing she could - probably would - lose them to an adoptive couple. I thoroughly enjoyed A Heart Like Home, as I have the other novels by this author; the characters are well-written, especially Bella and Henry - I just wanted to give them cuddles! A hugely satisfying novel, this is one I highly recommend.
With thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for my digital ARC to read in exchange for an honest review.
April 24, 2024
It is easy to see why Christine Nolfi is one of my favourite authors. Her gift of storytelling makes it a delight to pick up one of her books and become totally captivated for hours on end.
She really pulled at my heartstrings this time with such an emotionally beautiful story.
Full of surprises and captivating characters, "A Heart Like Home" explores the healing power of family when dealt with horrific and heart-wrenching obstacles in the lives of two young children in the foster care system.
A Wonderful Read!
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
She really pulled at my heartstrings this time with such an emotionally beautiful story.
Full of surprises and captivating characters, "A Heart Like Home" explores the healing power of family when dealt with horrific and heart-wrenching obstacles in the lives of two young children in the foster care system.
A Wonderful Read!
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for an arc of this novel in exchange for my honest review.
April 5, 2024
Henry (9) and Bella (7) are in need of a foster home. Their mother has passed away and their father leaves them home alone a lot. Nova is asked to foster them and she accepts them into her home even though she is not sure if she can handle it. They will grow as their own little family and you will be taken on an emotional roller coaster. Their father is trying to get them back but who is the best person to care for this precious children.
Available on 4/16.
Available on 4/16.
March 30, 2024
Christine Nolfi , the Author of “A Heart Like Home” has written an emotional, heart-felt, poignant, memorable and captivating novel. In this amazing well-written and vividly described story, Christine Nolfi masterfully crafts a story of what love and home represent. I am a big fan of the author and have read all of her books. The genres for this novel are Fiction, Contemporary, Small Towns & Rural Fiction, and Family Fiction. The author describes her dramatic characters as complex, complicated, and flawed.
Nova Doubeck is a single woman that is working to make ends meet, but when an emergency arises she can’t say “No” to fostering two young children. Nova is familiar with the system and was adopted when she was six years old, and was lucky to have two loving parents. Seven year old Bella is timid, and her nine year old brother is Henry can be very aggressive and a bully. This arrangement will be very difficult. The children’s mother had passed away, and the father Egan Croy disappears weekends leaving the children alone. There are secrets, betrayals, and danger.
Nova has nightmares from when she was in foster care, and wants the relationship to work out for these children. She becomes more attached and involved and as the father’s custodial hearing is approaching, Nova hopes that she can adopt the children. Unfortunately the father is a dangerous man, and Nora has no clue that he is someone she knows.
I appreciate how the author discusses the limitations of the foster system, and the need for better mental health. When it comes to what a home is, and what love is, Christine Nolfi has it nailed. I highly recommend this thought-provoking novel.
Nova Doubeck is a single woman that is working to make ends meet, but when an emergency arises she can’t say “No” to fostering two young children. Nova is familiar with the system and was adopted when she was six years old, and was lucky to have two loving parents. Seven year old Bella is timid, and her nine year old brother is Henry can be very aggressive and a bully. This arrangement will be very difficult. The children’s mother had passed away, and the father Egan Croy disappears weekends leaving the children alone. There are secrets, betrayals, and danger.
Nova has nightmares from when she was in foster care, and wants the relationship to work out for these children. She becomes more attached and involved and as the father’s custodial hearing is approaching, Nova hopes that she can adopt the children. Unfortunately the father is a dangerous man, and Nora has no clue that he is someone she knows.
I appreciate how the author discusses the limitations of the foster system, and the need for better mental health. When it comes to what a home is, and what love is, Christine Nolfi has it nailed. I highly recommend this thought-provoking novel.
November 3, 2024
This story about 2 small children in the foster care system will pull at your heart strings!
May 6, 2024
A HEART LIKE HOME by Christine Nolfi will grab you by the heartstrings on chapter one, and hold on tight until the very last. If you love family stories, especially ones strongly focused on siblings, then this is a must-read for you. It’s centered around the foster care system, so it’s an emotional read with some sad moments, but also many uplifting ones as well. The plot was steady, exciting, and mysterious, with so many great twists, turns, and surprises along the way. I also adored the well-developed characters. It was hard not to fall in love with the children. I wanted to reach into the book and give them both a big hug. Don’t miss out on this heartwarming gem.
April 15, 2024
Nolfi writes good fiction, but this is her best book to date it was one I could not put down. Family at its best. Emotional and one that will stay with you long after you turn the last page.
Thanks, Suzy, for sharing it with me.
Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
Thanks, Suzy, for sharing it with me.
Mary Reader received this book from the publisher for review. A favorable review was not required, and all views expressed are our own.
April 28, 2024
TITLE: A HEART LIKE HOME
AUTHOR: CHRISTINE NOLFI
PUB DATE: 04.16.2024
This is my first book from author Nolfi, and this one truly grabbed my heart - it’s a story about Nova who is adopted herself now asked to foster 9yo Henry and 7yo Bella, from their abusive home. Through love and persistence she wins over the children and becomes their biggest advocate. I found this novel about foster care and adoption truly eye opening and one so well written.
AUTHOR: CHRISTINE NOLFI
PUB DATE: 04.16.2024
This is my first book from author Nolfi, and this one truly grabbed my heart - it’s a story about Nova who is adopted herself now asked to foster 9yo Henry and 7yo Bella, from their abusive home. Through love and persistence she wins over the children and becomes their biggest advocate. I found this novel about foster care and adoption truly eye opening and one so well written.
February 12, 2024
A heart like home.
Christine Nolfi.
#familylifefiction
A heart warming story.
This one will pull at your heart strings.
A story about Foster care adoption.
Love respect and Simply taking care of children.. One of the greatest joy's on earth.
Two young children,
Henry and bella, Left home alone so often.
Soon find a heart like home. These children have been through so much. Heart ache, along way they have traveled. A hard one. In there short life's.
But maybe they found What's Best for them. Foster care can be one of the great things. For so many. Sometimes adoption plays into the picture..
Nova Doubeck,
a foster mother for teens. but will help all children. She's a good mom for any foster child.
This Has been my favourite book by this author... Absolutely a sweet story..
Christine Nolfi.
#familylifefiction
A heart warming story.
This one will pull at your heart strings.
A story about Foster care adoption.
Love respect and Simply taking care of children.. One of the greatest joy's on earth.
Two young children,
Henry and bella, Left home alone so often.
Soon find a heart like home. These children have been through so much. Heart ache, along way they have traveled. A hard one. In there short life's.
But maybe they found What's Best for them. Foster care can be one of the great things. For so many. Sometimes adoption plays into the picture..
Nova Doubeck,
a foster mother for teens. but will help all children. She's a good mom for any foster child.
This Has been my favourite book by this author... Absolutely a sweet story..
April 25, 2025
Once I started reading A HEART LIKE HOME I was instantly invested in the story and had a hard time putting it down. Why does my family always want to eat when I’m reading such an awesome story? Then there are the twists and turns you never saw coming with an ending you can’t even imagine! Nova has suffered so much grief and hardship. How can she possibly move on and let it all go? A HEART LIKE HOME is all about grief, forgiveness, and letting go of the past. But it also a story of friendships and hope and moving your life forward. All of the characters are flawed, not one is perfect, but they are perfectly written by Christine Nolfi.
I think Christine Nolfi does a great job unfolding the story and slowly revealing why Nova is the way she is. Nova Doubeck usually only fosters teens, so when Imani asks her to foster two siblings, much younger than she is used to, she knows she has no choice. Once I started, this book was hard to put down! The plot of the story, for the most part, rolled along smoothly and quickly. I had originally picked up A HEART LIKE HOME expecting a mystery. It was more of a contemporary women’s fiction with lots of drama folded in. All the characters are dealing with grief, but they each learn to lean on each other and try to push through.
A HEART LIKE HOME is going to pull on your heartstrings and never let you go. Christine Nolfi sure knows how to write a story that keeps the reader emotionally invested in all the characters, not just the main ones, but all of them. It takes the whole town, coming together, to untangle the mess of what happened to these kids and to keep their father away from them. You will find yourself cheering them all on. If you love small town fiction with family drama thrown in, you have to give A HEART LIKE HOME a try. If you are looking for something a little lighter, try Christine’s Sweet Lake trilogy. You will not be sorry and I bet you will want to know about these wonderful characters, just like me.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Lake Union through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
I think Christine Nolfi does a great job unfolding the story and slowly revealing why Nova is the way she is. Nova Doubeck usually only fosters teens, so when Imani asks her to foster two siblings, much younger than she is used to, she knows she has no choice. Once I started, this book was hard to put down! The plot of the story, for the most part, rolled along smoothly and quickly. I had originally picked up A HEART LIKE HOME expecting a mystery. It was more of a contemporary women’s fiction with lots of drama folded in. All the characters are dealing with grief, but they each learn to lean on each other and try to push through.
A HEART LIKE HOME is going to pull on your heartstrings and never let you go. Christine Nolfi sure knows how to write a story that keeps the reader emotionally invested in all the characters, not just the main ones, but all of them. It takes the whole town, coming together, to untangle the mess of what happened to these kids and to keep their father away from them. You will find yourself cheering them all on. If you love small town fiction with family drama thrown in, you have to give A HEART LIKE HOME a try. If you are looking for something a little lighter, try Christine’s Sweet Lake trilogy. You will not be sorry and I bet you will want to know about these wonderful characters, just like me.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from Lake Union through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
February 4, 2024
A Heart Like Home
When Imani called her best friend Nova early in the morning to asked her for a favor out of her comfort zone; fostering two young children a brother and sister Bella 7 & Henry 9; Nova hesitated for a beat because she only ever fostered teenagers but something in her heart made her take the leap & say yes. This Favor will touch everyone connected to Nova. Christine Nolfi has woven a story with secrets, twist and turns that will grab your heart and touch your emotions. You will not be able to put A heart like home down when your eyes land on the first page, be prepared this story & characters will stay in your heart; and yes it’s a very good thing.
When Imani called her best friend Nova early in the morning to asked her for a favor out of her comfort zone; fostering two young children a brother and sister Bella 7 & Henry 9; Nova hesitated for a beat because she only ever fostered teenagers but something in her heart made her take the leap & say yes. This Favor will touch everyone connected to Nova. Christine Nolfi has woven a story with secrets, twist and turns that will grab your heart and touch your emotions. You will not be able to put A heart like home down when your eyes land on the first page, be prepared this story & characters will stay in your heart; and yes it’s a very good thing.
June 4, 2024
A Heart Like A Home
By: Christine Nolfi
Pub date: April 16, 2024
Publisher: Lake Union Publishing
5💛💛💛💛💛
Family is not always blood and includes the people you choose to be in your life.
Nova is asked to foster Bella and Ben who are young. 7 and 9 is old enough to realize their father is not there for them after their mother dies, so fostering can be a better solution for their well-being.
Nova wants to adopt these children, and she is dealing with her past. The father wants to hold on to his children.
This one is emotional as the discussion of abuse, foster care and other things come to light.
Thank you Suzy Approved Books for this copy.
#aheartlikeahome, #christinenolfi, #suzyapprovedbooktours, #bookreview, #lakeunionpublishing, #bookreview, #booksconnectus, #stamperlady50
By: Christine Nolfi
Pub date: April 16, 2024
Publisher: Lake Union Publishing
5💛💛💛💛💛
Family is not always blood and includes the people you choose to be in your life.
Nova is asked to foster Bella and Ben who are young. 7 and 9 is old enough to realize their father is not there for them after their mother dies, so fostering can be a better solution for their well-being.
Nova wants to adopt these children, and she is dealing with her past. The father wants to hold on to his children.
This one is emotional as the discussion of abuse, foster care and other things come to light.
Thank you Suzy Approved Books for this copy.
#aheartlikeahome, #christinenolfi, #suzyapprovedbooktours, #bookreview, #lakeunionpublishing, #bookreview, #booksconnectus, #stamperlady50
June 10, 2024
A Heart Like Home is a beautiful and emotional story. You can’t help but love young Henry and Bella they truly pull at your heartstrings. A captivating story that I thoroughly enjoyed and have no hesitation in highly recommending it to anyone looking for their next book to read.
With thanks to Netgalley and the publishers for my digital copy to read and review.
April 16, 2024
Way to go Christine. All of your books are wonderful but this is the best one yet. It's not just an emotional story it also has some chuckles added in along the way. While it did make me weep bit ugly tears there was also parts that made me laugh out loud. This book will be in my top twenty for the year for sure.
This book will pull at your heartstrings in ways no other will. It's the story of a brother and sister. The life they lived and the life they are finally given. A kind of rags to riches kind of story only it's rags of emotion to riches of love. These two children, Henry and Bella, are taken from their dad after a neighbor calls the police. Their mother had died and their dad left them alone on weekends so he could go out drinking and picking up women. They lived in squalor and near starvation. All of that is about to change. These two beautiful children will find out what it's like to be loved unconditionally and fearlessly.
No child should ever experience what Henry and Bella did. Children should be treasured. In a perfect world they would be. How any parent can hurt or abuse their own little child is beyond me. They give us total and complete love. Until you strip that away from them. Even then if you show them kindness they will forgive you and try again.
These two children are so worthy of a good life and deep love. With Nova they will experience what it's like to be accepted. Fed well. Dressed in good clothes and sent to school. A life spent enjoying themselves instead of worrying about what will happen to them next.
Henry is a very rebellious young boy. He's nine years old and already endured more than he should. He has a tendency to berate and belittle females. He hasn't a lot of respect for them. He learned that lesson from his dad.
Bella is a bundle of love. She's open to being loved and loves back. She's still young enough at seven to believe in magic. She's an outgoing child and keeps you on your toes. She will make you laugh many times while reading this book.
This is a heartbreaking story that will ultimately mend you back together. As do all of this author's books. I loved most all of the characters in this book. I felt the beauty of all the flowers and bushes and trees described in this story. I felt the magic of Bella's photograph. The fears of what all Henry went through. I did not like Egan. He was a very trouble man.
Thank you #NetGalley, #ChristineNolfi, #LakeUnion, for this ARC. This is my own true thoughts about this book.
FIVE huge stars and the highest recommendation. Grab this and a few boxes of Kleenex.
This book will pull at your heartstrings in ways no other will. It's the story of a brother and sister. The life they lived and the life they are finally given. A kind of rags to riches kind of story only it's rags of emotion to riches of love. These two children, Henry and Bella, are taken from their dad after a neighbor calls the police. Their mother had died and their dad left them alone on weekends so he could go out drinking and picking up women. They lived in squalor and near starvation. All of that is about to change. These two beautiful children will find out what it's like to be loved unconditionally and fearlessly.
No child should ever experience what Henry and Bella did. Children should be treasured. In a perfect world they would be. How any parent can hurt or abuse their own little child is beyond me. They give us total and complete love. Until you strip that away from them. Even then if you show them kindness they will forgive you and try again.
These two children are so worthy of a good life and deep love. With Nova they will experience what it's like to be accepted. Fed well. Dressed in good clothes and sent to school. A life spent enjoying themselves instead of worrying about what will happen to them next.
Henry is a very rebellious young boy. He's nine years old and already endured more than he should. He has a tendency to berate and belittle females. He hasn't a lot of respect for them. He learned that lesson from his dad.
Bella is a bundle of love. She's open to being loved and loves back. She's still young enough at seven to believe in magic. She's an outgoing child and keeps you on your toes. She will make you laugh many times while reading this book.
This is a heartbreaking story that will ultimately mend you back together. As do all of this author's books. I loved most all of the characters in this book. I felt the beauty of all the flowers and bushes and trees described in this story. I felt the magic of Bella's photograph. The fears of what all Henry went through. I did not like Egan. He was a very trouble man.
Thank you #NetGalley, #ChristineNolfi, #LakeUnion, for this ARC. This is my own true thoughts about this book.
FIVE huge stars and the highest recommendation. Grab this and a few boxes of Kleenex.
November 23, 2024
A Heart Like Home was immediately engaging and I quickly flew through this book in a couple days. The story involving young kids in foster care and people forming families was heartwarming and had several twists I did not expect. The children were complex and well drawn. I really liked the heroine, Nova, and enjoyed her arc. Thanks to author Christine Nolfi and Lake Union Publishing for an autographed copy of this book won through a GoodReads giveaway. I will be passing this book on to friends so they can enjoy it too.
February 9, 2024
Compassionate, beautiful and engrossing, A Heart Like Home is a sparkling jewel of a book. Weaving a tale of romance, friendship and familial love, Christine Nolfi gives us an intimate and big-hearted peek inside the world of foster care and adoption, full of honest pain and also brimming with tenderness, generosity and human connection.
May 20, 2024
"Finding family is a journey of love, risk, secrets, and healing..."
I absolutely loved this book. It pulled on my heartstrings and did not let go. It's one of those books that has the power to stay with you for a long time.
Nova, who was in foster care as a youth, vows to make thing better kids and becomes a foster parent herself. She normally fosters teens, but as a favor she takes on Henry and Bella. Her protectiveness and the children's need to be safe from their abusive father makes this one intriguing book. Nova is doing what she can to ensure the kids do not return to their father, all the while secrets and hidden truths come to light.
The characters were all expertly written and I loved the kids so much. It's an emotional roller coaster with some lows and a lot uplifting moments as well.
This is my first Christie Nolfi novel and it will not be my last. I highly recommend!
I absolutely loved this book. It pulled on my heartstrings and did not let go. It's one of those books that has the power to stay with you for a long time.
Nova, who was in foster care as a youth, vows to make thing better kids and becomes a foster parent herself. She normally fosters teens, but as a favor she takes on Henry and Bella. Her protectiveness and the children's need to be safe from their abusive father makes this one intriguing book. Nova is doing what she can to ensure the kids do not return to their father, all the while secrets and hidden truths come to light.
The characters were all expertly written and I loved the kids so much. It's an emotional roller coaster with some lows and a lot uplifting moments as well.
This is my first Christie Nolfi novel and it will not be my last. I highly recommend!
April 8, 2024
This book was so heart-wrenching. I swear, it broke my heart into a million pieces...and then glued it back together again! I really loved how the author took a topic that isn't covered by man (adoption/fostering) and turned it into the most realistic yet hopeful scenario.
Main character Nova is strong and determined throughout - she's really a character that you can root for. I also fell in love with Bella and Henry, the foster kids that come into her orbit. As for the story itself, though I won't spoil it, I will say I was so captivated by the gentle and engaging writing style, I really loved every chapter. But I also took my time reading this book because I didn't want it to end.
Part love story. Part family drama. Part mystery. Part realistic fiction glimpsing the story of so many in the foster system. This book was perfection in ALL the ways a reader hopes to find! I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who loves modern lit!
Main character Nova is strong and determined throughout - she's really a character that you can root for. I also fell in love with Bella and Henry, the foster kids that come into her orbit. As for the story itself, though I won't spoil it, I will say I was so captivated by the gentle and engaging writing style, I really loved every chapter. But I also took my time reading this book because I didn't want it to end.
Part love story. Part family drama. Part mystery. Part realistic fiction glimpsing the story of so many in the foster system. This book was perfection in ALL the ways a reader hopes to find! I HIGHLY recommend this book to anyone who loves modern lit!
April 16, 2024
A Heart Like Home is Christine Nolfi’s newest masterpiece. This is a beautifully written story about family and the home. An amazing story written with so much compassion it will stay with you long after you finish it. It grabs you from the start and will take you on a roller coaster ride filled with emotions until the very end. There are strong, well developed characters that will bring the story to life. A unique story that will make you happy and sad all at the same time. Heartwarming yet heartbreaking it has family drama, mystery, secrets, romance and so much courage to keep the pages turning quickly. I loved it from start to finish. I highly recommend this highly captivating story, you will not be disappointed.
Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture and Christine Nolfi for this wonderful story to read and review. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
#netgalley #bookouture #christinenolfi. #aheartlikehome. #libertyladies #arc #heartwarming. #heartbreaking
Thank you NetGalley, Bookouture and Christine Nolfi for this wonderful story to read and review. The opinions expressed are strictly my own.
#netgalley #bookouture #christinenolfi. #aheartlikehome. #libertyladies #arc #heartwarming. #heartbreaking
April 27, 2024
What a beautiful story of love, hope, and second chances! Nova is experienced in fostering teen-age children. However, when two younger siblings need a place to stay, Nova agrees to take them in. Nova is an independent woman who owns a landscaping business. Will she be able to handle all she has going on?
Nova is an incredibly strong woman who gives her time, talent, and love to these siblings. Henry and Bella are beautiful children who need love and a second chance. This story grabs at your heartstrings every step of the way.
Another new author for 2024.
Nova is an incredibly strong woman who gives her time, talent, and love to these siblings. Henry and Bella are beautiful children who need love and a second chance. This story grabs at your heartstrings every step of the way.
Another new author for 2024.
March 29, 2024
Oh, my heart. I should know by now what to expect from a book by Christine Nolfi, but she is able to capture all of the emotions with every new book. A Heart Like Home doesn't just tug at the heart strings, it completely destroys them and then puts them back together. I can not recommend this book enough. I absolutely loved it.
April 16, 2024
The title of this book, A Heart Like Home, tells you everything this story is going to be about. It's about love -- that of family and friends -- and of home --the importance of having a safe and loving place that can be called home. Nova Doubek is a young businesswoman with a troubled childhood, who has opened her heart and her home as a foster-parent. Usually she takes in teenaged youth in the belief that it will be easier to see them leave for a permanent solution. But this time she is asked to take a young brother and sister who are in desperate need of a home. Nova, who values her independence, comes to learn how much she can count on those surrounding her as she learns to deal with 6-year old Bella and 9-year old Henry, who still struggle with drama and memories of an abusive father, who plans to get them back. At the same time, Nova learns she has to deal with the demons she has been unable to face regarding her own childhood before foster-care and finally being adopted by the couple she calls mom and dad. The characters and situations in the story are realistic, which draws readers into their lives and to become invested in the outcome. A few surprises built into the story can crush the reader's heart while anxiously waiting to see how the story ends! Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for the opportunity to read and review this advance reader copy. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own. #NetGalley #AHeartLikeHome
April 22, 2024
Thank you @christinenolfi , Lake Union Publishing and @suzyapprovedbooktours for the #gifted book.
Christine Nolfi has become an auto read author for me. Her books are well plotted, beautifully written, with relatable characters. A Heart Like Home is a story that tugged at my heart with themes of foster care, adoption, abuse, and family.
Christine Nolfi has become an auto read author for me. Her books are well plotted, beautifully written, with relatable characters. A Heart Like Home is a story that tugged at my heart with themes of foster care, adoption, abuse, and family.
April 14, 2024
A Heart Like Home by Christine Nolfi is so beautiful! It made me laugh, and cry big tears and fall in love with beautiful characters!
April 27, 2024
Excellent!
Christine Nolfi has written another excellent novel . Such a sweet story, and also riveting, it is full of characters one might meet in every hometown.
Christine Nolfi has written another excellent novel . Such a sweet story, and also riveting, it is full of characters one might meet in every hometown.
December 4, 2024
This is a sweet story of foster care turning out perfectly with some bumps along the way. I enjoyed it and would recommend it.
November 5, 2024
A heartwarming story.
December 18, 2024
Got this book from a giveaway on here and I loved it. Really great story and very beautiful ending.
March 15, 2024
Thank you, Christine Nolfi, for the ARC opportunity to read A Heart Like Home.
So much to say without spoilers, my heart is indeed touched on so many levels. I have worked with Foster girls placed in group homes currently for 11 years. Nolfi had me the moment I realized Bella and Henry were in foster care. The needs are so overwhelming and so urgent all over our country.
The character of Nova has trauma in her past and is adopted as well. The story is nuanced and takes twists never expected.
I’m not saying anymore except this phrase hit me between the eyes: Love isn’t a finite commodity-It multiplied, growing ever stronger as you welcome more people into your heart. This says it all.
So much to say without spoilers, my heart is indeed touched on so many levels. I have worked with Foster girls placed in group homes currently for 11 years. Nolfi had me the moment I realized Bella and Henry were in foster care. The needs are so overwhelming and so urgent all over our country.
The character of Nova has trauma in her past and is adopted as well. The story is nuanced and takes twists never expected.
I’m not saying anymore except this phrase hit me between the eyes: Love isn’t a finite commodity-It multiplied, growing ever stronger as you welcome more people into your heart. This says it all.
April 9, 2024
Do you ever pick up a book and feel like it just wrapped its arms around you and pulled you in? You find yourself immersed in the surroundings and involved with the characters and didn’t know it was happening until you looked up from the book and were surprised you were sitting in your comfy reading chair in your own home? This is exactly what I experienced while reading the sensational new book by Christine Nolfi titled A Heart Like Home.
If you have read anything by Christine, then you will definitely want to jump into this new book as soon as possible. It is up for pre-order and will be in your library on the 16th of this month. I highly recommend arranging this as soon as possible.
This is about a woman named Nova Doubeck who was adopted by her parents when she was six years old. She is now starting her own landscaping company and she fosters teenagers on a short term basis. This time she has two young children on an emergency basis because there are no other homes. She is aware she is going to have to protect her heart from falling in love with these two. Otherwise, saying goodbye is going to be hard.
I have read one other book by Christine and fell in love with her writing style then. That book was A Brighter Flame. She has a sort of magic when she writes. I am easily drawn in and can’t put the books down. She leads me down the winding road and I have to know where it goes and how it ends up. Her story lines are not typical or predictable. I usually don’t pick up a book before I even roll out of bed in the morning but, I did today.
There is a little romance in this book but it is not the main topic of the story. There are characters I didn’t like and those I wanted to hug. I loved one of the foster children and wanted to throttle the other one. The author definitely pulled my heart strings and caused a few tears to well up in my eyes while I tried to read through them. This book is worth every minute spent reading it.
If this sounds like anything you might like to read, I encourage you to give it a try and add it to the stack waiting to be read on your nightstand. You won’t regret it. Until next time…Happy Reading!
Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from #Christine Nolfi, #Netgalley and #LakeUnionPublishing. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
If you have read anything by Christine, then you will definitely want to jump into this new book as soon as possible. It is up for pre-order and will be in your library on the 16th of this month. I highly recommend arranging this as soon as possible.
This is about a woman named Nova Doubeck who was adopted by her parents when she was six years old. She is now starting her own landscaping company and she fosters teenagers on a short term basis. This time she has two young children on an emergency basis because there are no other homes. She is aware she is going to have to protect her heart from falling in love with these two. Otherwise, saying goodbye is going to be hard.
I have read one other book by Christine and fell in love with her writing style then. That book was A Brighter Flame. She has a sort of magic when she writes. I am easily drawn in and can’t put the books down. She leads me down the winding road and I have to know where it goes and how it ends up. Her story lines are not typical or predictable. I usually don’t pick up a book before I even roll out of bed in the morning but, I did today.
There is a little romance in this book but it is not the main topic of the story. There are characters I didn’t like and those I wanted to hug. I loved one of the foster children and wanted to throttle the other one. The author definitely pulled my heart strings and caused a few tears to well up in my eyes while I tried to read through them. This book is worth every minute spent reading it.
If this sounds like anything you might like to read, I encourage you to give it a try and add it to the stack waiting to be read on your nightstand. You won’t regret it. Until next time…Happy Reading!
Don’t forget to support the authors you read by leaving a review.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from #Christine Nolfi, #Netgalley and #LakeUnionPublishing. The opinions I have expressed are my own and I was not required to write a review. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.
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