Heart's Desire

Shores of Indian Lake #2

by Catherine Lanigan

His homecoming is bittersweet…for both of them

Café owner Maddie Strong is finally ready to take her burgeoning cupcake business to the next level. With the help of handsome businessman Alex Perkins, her future's all mapped out. Until her first love comes home.

At seventeen, Maddie adored Nate Barzonni with her whole heart and soul. But when he asked her to elope, she'd said no—she couldn't let him throw away his dream of becoming a doctor. Then he vanished from her life for eleven years. Now the cardiac surgeon has returned to Indian Lake asking for a second chance, and Maddie has to choose between her new life…and the man she never stopped loving.

Genres: Contemporary Romance, Romance, Contemporary

191 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 2014

About the author

Catherine Lanigan is the bestselling author of over thirty published titles in both fiction and non-fiction, including the novelizations of Romancing the Stone and The Jewel of the Nile, as well as over half a dozen anthologies, including “Chicken Soup for the Soul: Living your Dream”, “Chicken Soup for the Writer’s Soul”, “Chocolate for a Woman’s Heart”, Chocolate for a Woman’s Spirit”. Ms. Lanigan’s novels have been translated into over a dozen languages including German, French, Italian, Spanish, Russian, Portuguese, Chinese, and Japanese. Ms. Lanigan’s novels are also available on audio-cassette, CD and on electronic format. A prolific writer, she is always writing wonderful stories. She has several titles only available in ebook format on Amazon.com Several of her titles have been chosen for The Literary Guild and Doubleday Book Clubs. Her novel, The Christmas Star, won the Gold Medal Award Top Pick from Romantic Times Magazine for December, 2002, and has also won Book of the Year Romance Gold Award from ForeWord Magazine as well as Book of the Year Romance from Reader’s Preference. In March, 2006 Divine Nudges: Tales of Angelic Intervention and the second in Lanigan’s Angel Watch series of books, was published by HCI, the Chicken Soup for the Soul publisher.

Reviews

[Carrie Schmidt · Rating 4 out of 5]

Nate Barzonni returns home after a long absence and what greets him upon his arrival? His first love Maddie Strong in a wedding dress. Talk about a figurative gut punch… and a literal one may not be far behind. (He deserves it) For her part, Maddie is finally on the cusp of her dreams. Dreams that have evolved and matured over the 11 years since she last saw or heard from Nate Barzonni. A new relationship, a new life… and then Nate returns. Nate has one dream. Maddie has another. And just when they’re finally given a chance at each other again, they’re also given those dreams – dreams that don’t mesh well. Clearly this dynamic creates palpable tension between the two high school sweethearts, not only romantic tension (that kiss is a doozy!) but also the tension of ‘what could have been’ and the tension of ‘what could be’.

Lanigan does a good job of balancing this tension with lighter moments – while always keeping the tug-of-war between their hearts’ desires at the forefront of the story. Mrs. Beabots is a delight in the earlier books, just as she is later in the series, and it was fun to see Sophie from a slightly different perspective. I will confess, though, that I wasn’t a fan of the love triangle between Nate, Maddie, and Alex, particularly because it felt like Maddie was trying to have her cake and eat it too. Considering that she owns a cupcake cafe, I probably should have seen that one coming...

Bottom Line: Heart’s Desire reminds me all over again why I love Indian Lake and its characters. The small town is welcoming and quaint, with its own personality and atmosphere. At the same time, it’s close enough to Chicago to allow for a nice blending of the big city with the small town life. Through Nate and Maddie’s story, Lanigan explores our hearts’ desires – the way they evolve over time and the way they sometimes take a direction we weren’t anticipating. Every reader will be able to relate on this level to these characters, and in the meantime they are treated to a sweet romance and a not-sure-how-this-is-going-to-turn-out plot.

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

first seen at Reading Is My SuperPower

[Becky · Rating 2 out of 5]

Heart's Desire is the second book in Lanigan's Shores of Indian Lake series (which now includes nine books). I haven't read book one (or any of the other books), so I struggled a bit with all of the characters. Not only are there many plot threads going on, but the story is told from many, many perspectives. You'd expect to read things from the main characters' points of view, but Mrs. Beabots? Some lady named Louise? Every time the book shifted to a perspective that wasn't Nate's or Maddie's, I was jarred out of the story. I would've enjoyed the book more had it been only told from two points of view.

I loved reading about Maddie's quest to franchise her Cupcakes and Coffee Cafe. The whole process was fascinating—and complicated, as Alex, the investment firm employee helping her secure an investor, had more that business on his mind. Then, just as everything seemed to be going right with Maddie's business (and with Alex), her ex-boyfriend Nate showed up. The scene where Maddie first saw Nate was one of my favorites in the whole book 🙂.

While I was interested in the romance, the love triangle drove me a bit crazy. Love triangles are never my favorite, but I don't mind them if they're done well—especially if it's not completely obvious which two should end up together. In Heart's Desire, there's never a doubt that Maddie should choose Nate ... and I highly disliked the way she carried on with both men. I also didn't like her indecision after she made her decision. I just wanted to grab her and say, "If you're not sure, take your time! No rush!"

Obviously, I had a few issues with this novel, but overall, I did enjoy the story.

[Amy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart’s Desire is book two from the Shores of Indian Lake series by Catherine Lanigan. I have not read the first book in the series and had no problem getting into the story. This is, also, my first introduction of this author’s work. I thoroughly enjoyed it. Maddie is a fun character to get to know. Nate is one character full of mystery and intrigue to me. I did not care too much for Alex but he fit nicely into the plot.

Heart’s Desire is a delightful read that I thought was worth sitting down for a few hours. It is heartwarming, cute, sweet, clean and romantic. I did not care that it was slightly predictable. Definitely, worth putting on a reader’s must read list. I give it a well-deserved 5 stars and look forward to reading others in the Shores of Indian Lake series, as well as, more by Catherine Lanigan.
I received this book from the publisher. This review is 100% my own honest opinion.

[Megan · Rating 3 out of 5]

I've only read books 6 and 7 in the series, but it was fun being back in Indian Lake. Heart's Desire was a captivating story that had me hooked from the bridal shop scene.

I liked Maddie, a lot, and found her determination of reaching her goal of franchising her shop admirable. However, I didn't like how she was dating two guys at the same time or the way she handled things after making her decision between them.

All in all, this was an enjoyable read and I'm glad to have read it. I'm excited that this book was made into a Hallmark TV movie and definitely plan to watch it once it airs.

I received a complimentary copy of this book to review. I was asked to give my honest opinion of the book - which I have done.

3.5 stars

[Darlene Torday · Rating 2 out of 5]

Interesting in parts especially when Maddie is working to expand her business. I really loved her but Nate was a bit self centered and never, to me, grew beyond the kid that skipped town after asking her to marry him and never once letting her know why for over ten years. I'd have liked him more if he had stood up to his father and honesty tried to whoo Maddie instead of taking her for granted because he was a big time cardiologist.

spoiler alert. He changed but only at the end as if the author needed to end the book.

[Phyllis · Rating 4 out of 5]

I would like to thank Prism Book Tours for giving me this item. My opinion and review were not influenced by this gift.

It's always interesting to find a new author only to discover they have been writing for a long time.  Catherine Lanigan has written many books, and I imagine they are all as good as Heart's Desire.  :-)

The first thing I noticed about the book was the wonderful descriptions that were used.  Such beautiful imagery was used throughout the book.  The author also went into detail about the rigors of Naval training in a way I have not seen before, and also the description of heart surgery.  Ok, I have to confess that did make me a little queasy.  Yeah, I'm a wimp when it comes to that kind of thing.  Nevertheless, it was very interesting.

Maddie was very sweet, yet very insecure.  She felt like she needed to prove that she wasn't like her mom.  The fact that she didn't have a college education made her feel insignificant, or at least inadequate.  This ended up influencing her actions and her choices and always drove her to do better.

I loved the scene when Maddie first saw Nate when he returned to town.  Both of their reactions were great, especially his.  And then when she punched him in the stomach at the exclusive club on Easter!. . .  Just sayin'.

The author did a great job in conveying deep emotion and creating a realistic love triangle.  The story went one direction and then another, yet it still made sense given the history and Maddie's insecurity.  Once you thought everything was going well, a new conflict arose.

Overall, it was a great story and just the right length.


This review was originally posted on Among the Reads

I would like to thank Prism Book Tours for giving me this item. My opinion and review were not influenced by this gift.

***Premiering as Sweetest Heart on the Hallmark Channel March 17th 9 PM ET***

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This review was originally posted on Among the Reads

[Suzie Waltner · Rating 4 out of 5]

As long as each book stands alone, I’m fine with coming in late to a series. Despite my best intentions, though, I don’t make it to the earlier books. As is the case with Catherine Lanigan’s Shores of Indian Lake books. So I was thrilled when the opportunity to read one of the second book written in this series came about. It was a treat to get to go back in time a little—to the true introduction of the Barzonni family.
What struck me most about this book is the exploration of changing dreams. Remember when you were in high school and thought your future was all mapped out for you? How did those dreams work out?
Probably about the same as they did for Nate and Maddie Strong. When life brings them back together, eleven years later, each has new goals and dreams. As they admit the mistakes of their youth, are they willing to let go of their new dreams and plans now?
Another engaging and warm read from Catherine Lanigan that, thanks to Hallmark, we can soon watch on the small screen. Between Maddie’s friendships, Nate’s family, and the small town, this story is a perfect fit for a Hallmark movie.

Disclosure statement:
I receive complimentary books from publishers, publicists, and/or authors, including NetGalley. I am not required to write positive reviews. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255.

[Busy Bumble Bee Book Reviews · Rating 4 out of 5]

Once again Mrs. Lanigan has transported us back to Indian Lake. Where everything seems real including the characters. This is the second book I have read from this author. This book will keep ya turning the pages to see what is going to happen.



I loved the characters in this story. They felt like real life people and I felt everything they were going thorough. And I mean what could be better than having two guys fighting for you.



I really enjoyed this book and felt every moment of the story. I wish I had the Hallmark channel so I could watch it when it comes on.



I'm giving this book 4.5 Stars out of 5!!!

***I received an ARC of this book for my honest review***

[Carolyn R · Rating 4 out of 5]

I was prompted to read this book after seeing the Hallmark adaptation with Julie Gonzalo and Chris McNally…and the book is certainly different than the film! (I love the movie, but I still enjoyed the book.)

There were certain characters from the first book that I glossed over since I hadn’t read the first book (featuring Sarah & Luke) so their parts/perspective in the story were a bit confusing.

The story of Maddie and Nate is still entertaining as they come to realizations of their previous mistakes and future possibilities. Yes, I’d recommend it to anyone looking for an easy read…but I’d probably suggest they start with book 1.

[Janice Sisemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

Heart’s Desire

Love the story of Maddie and Nate. I am looking forward to seeing the movie of it. Nate left her eleven years ago and comes back to town to work at the local hospital. I loved that he was a surgeon. He wants to work at the Indian reservation once there is an opening. Maddie had a coffee shop with bake goods, sounded so good. Will they be able to get back together? Also I lot of other great characters in the book. I loved the name of one. I received an complementary copy of the book from Prism book tours.

[Jess Holden · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heart's Desire is the second book in the Shores of Indian Lake series by Catherine Lanigan. I have came to enjoy my visit to Indian Lake. Maddie is such a fun character and I really enjoyed Nate as well.

Trying to prove to the world that you are not your mother when you are really just trying to convince yourself is one of the hardest aspects of life I could imagine. The challenges life throws at you can change your life path. Some of those same challenges affected Maddie and Nate.

This read is absolutely wonderful. I can't wait to watch it on the screen.

[Anne · Rating 2 out of 5]

This one didn't keep my interest. I saw no clean way out without one of the characters giving up what they really wanted. I don't believe in giving up your dream for someone (which is different from making compromises), so this just felt wrong to me in many ways. The writing was pretty okay, though, and both characters were described well through their interactions.

[Stacey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved it. This book was adapted by Hallmark and is my favorite movie. So glad I finally read this!

[Lissy Peace · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really love this story. Two high school lovers are torn apart when Nate leaves Indian Lakes to join the military because he is afraid to confront his farming family and tell them that he does not want to continue in the family business. Instead be becomes a soldier and then goes on and becomes a heart surgeon pursuing skills in the latest technology. Maddie holds on to the pain she felt when Nate first left and never falls in love in the 11 years that he is gone. When he finally comes back to Indian Lakes, she hauls up to him and punches him in the gut. Way to go Maddie! I think every woman out there has wanted to do that to a guy somewhere along their time line. Maddie now is a super successful bakery/cafe operator and his on the precipice of franchising her concept. With an investor on board and a hot Chicago attorney vying for Maddie's attention, she is feeling confident and on her way. Nate can't stand that another man is vying for Maddie's attention and finally gets the courage to do what he didn't do 11 years ago. Maddie is torn does she follow her heart or her professional dreams. Is there a way she can do both? Great story, so real.

[Kate Vale · Rating 3 out of 5]

Cafe owner Maddie Strong is on the cusp of selling her cupcake and coffee business to an investor interested in franchising the business and it's been her dream to have such success. Adding to her pounding heartbeat is her gradual realization that Alex is also intent of landing her for himself and bringing her to Chicago to live with him. The thought tickles her fancy, but is he really what she wants? And if she refuses his attentions, will he kill the franchise plan?

Then Nate Barzonni, Maddie's first love, returns home after achieving his dream of becoming a heart surgeon. Although she fights her feelings, Nate wins out and all being to look up until his plan, after one year, to go back to working at several Indian reservations in Arizona, will occur immediately. He leaves, promising Maddie to call her when he arrives. But days pass before she finally hears from him. Too little, too late and heartbroken that their life goals are too different, Maddie breaks their engagement.

What is Nate going to do now, when he finally realizes that the real reason he went home was to find Maddie and make a family with her?

[Laurie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I enjoyed Catherine Lanigan's Heart's Desire, another sweet, clean, Harlequin Heartwarming title. Maddie Strong adored the man of her dreams, Nate Barzonni, but then he left her, simply disappeared for eleven years. Now he's back and she wants no part of him. He broke her heart, and she's determined to cast him off forever....or is she? Maddie's got big plans for her cupcakes and coffee business. At last she's come close to having the success she's craved for years, and Alex Perkins is determined to help her realize her dreams. In fact, he may be just the man Maddie needs, but is he truly the one for her? I was on the edge of my seat wondering how Maddie would fare, and who would ultimately win her heart. If wholesome romance is your cup of tea, you should enjoy reading Heart's Desire.

[Jackie · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received a copy of this book thru the Good Reads First Read giveaway. Thank you,always love more books. I enjoyed this new series . This is the second in the series but can be read alone. This one is all about Mattie and Nate, teenage sweethearts who had a horrible misunderstanding
which led to a end of their love. Or so they thought. Eleven years later they meet again. At that time Maddie was still steaming over what happened. Trials and problems and again misunderstandings begin again. Can they get past all of it to what their hearts desire? I would love to read more of this series, and learn about the other people who live in Indian Lake. People like Babs, Sarah, Luke but especially Mrs Beabots, an older woman who is Friends with Sarah.

[Harlequin Books]

Miniseries: Shores of Indian Lake

[Janice Sisemore · Rating 5 out of 5]

The story of Maddie and Nate and characters from the first book also. Loved this book, now I want the next in the series.

[Joy Strother · Rating 3 out of 5]

I think this book is boring.It is a slow read.I didn't like it much.It did have a happy ending and that was nice.