Hearts of Hope

River Falls #6

by Valerie M. Bodden

He lost the love of his life. She’s running from the pain of her past. Can hope take root in their broken hearts?

Police officer Zeb Calvano has spent three years learning to live again after losing his wife and unborn child. His faith is the only thing that keeps him steady—along with his work protecting the quiet mountain town of River Falls. But when he agrees to watch over his friend’s sister and her little boy, his carefully ordered world is turned upside down.

Tori Christiansen never planned to come back to River Falls. But with her abusive ex out of prison, it’s the only place she and her special-needs son can feel safe. The last person she expects to run into is the man she once secretly adored—and the last thing she wants is his pity. But Zeb’s quiet strength—and his gentle faith—make her wonder if healing might be possible after all.

As they’re drawn together by faith, family, and a little boy who adores “Officer Zeb,” both begin to wonder if God might be writing a new story. But will trusting again cost them everything—or show them that God’s love can turn even the deepest pain into a heart of hope?

A tender, faith-filled romance for anyone who believes that even after heartbreak, God still makes all things new.

Perfect for fans of Karen Kingsbury, Denise Hunter, and Becky Wade.

Genres: Romance

442 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 1, 2025

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

[Catherine Dunphy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Absolutely beautiful story! I couldn't put it down!!!

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hearts of Hope was a beautiful way to wrap up the River Falls series. If you have not read the series before, you could jump in and read this book on its own, knowing that the main character is a widower with a big extended family and that he has been grieving the loss of his wife and unborn child for the past three years. But if you have read the earlier books, you will feel a sense of peace, knowing that Zeb is finally going to find love again after so much loss.

Both Zeb and Tori had some serious baggage to work through as the story progressed. Tori carries guilt over her sister’s death and knows that she has made many bad decisions in her life, including her previous marriage to an abusive husband. And Zeb is afraid to give his heart away to someone new, having loved and lost before.

Even though Zeb and Tori had a contentious first meeting in this book, I liked that they actually knew each other from the past, with Zeb being best friends with Tori’s older brother. There was an age gap that kept Zeb from ever noticing Tori as more than his friend’s sister back then, even though she definitely had a crush on him. Zeb and Tori had many trials to persevere through and had to learn to lean on God to keep them going. This story brought tears to my eyes at one point.

I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions are my own.

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

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

I honestly don't know how a writer can write such beautiful stories other than with God's help. Valerie has written a beautiful book, again. I have not read a bad book of hers yet. Such love, hope, care, thought and God's love flow through her books to the reader. This story is about Zeb and Tori. Tori is coming back to River Falls to help her grandma in her flower shop while she goes on a trip. But as soon as she drives into the town Zeb stops her for speeding. They have known each other since they were kids, but Tori is much younger and always looked up to Zeb...now she is mad. Speeding really? She had a headache and just wanted to get to Gram's to rest. Her cute inquisitive boy Teddy is wondering what is going on. This story unfolds with anger from Tori at Zeb to God shaping and molding their lives together. It is not an easy turn to each other. Tori is head strong and well so is Zeb. They get along well, but their past hurts lead them away from each other more than to each other the majority of time. Zeb lost his wife, Carly and child. Liz, Tori's sister died in an accident and she always manages to pick the bad guys and again does in this story with the strange, Parker-chiropractor, who is very overbearing. But through this whole story Valerie weaves forgiveness, love and drawing to God. It is beautiful and well worth the read. Thank you for letting me be on your ARC team Valerie! :)

[Barbara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tori is in town with her young son, Teddy, so she can cover for her grandmother while she’s on vacation. She gets a ticket on her way into town from none other than Zeb Calvano, her brother’s childhood friend and her childhood crush, now a police officer. She didn’t know Zeb lived next door to her grandmother, helped her with various chores, ate dinner with her weekly, and that her brother had asked him to watch over her and Teddy while they’re in town.

Zeb lost his wife three years ago and isn’t ready to move on, even though seeing his siblings all happily married with children makes him a bit lonely and wishing he had the same happiness in his own life.

Tori and Zeb cross paths constantly and not always in a good way. Tori gets so frustrated with him even though she knows he’s a kind, caring, considerate man who would do anything for anyone. But the more she sees him, the more she’s attracted to him. Is there any way to get through to him and let him know it’s okay to move on and be happy again, or is it a lost cause?

A heartwarming, emotional story filled with faith, hope, new love and new beginnings.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Stox4story · Rating 5 out of 5]

The Lord Is Close to the Brokenhearted

This story has a lot to like and appreciate, but what I love most is it’s realistic. Yes it’s fiction, but as you turn the pages you ‘see’ things that very well can and do happen in real life

Without giving away too much of the story, just know that you will see things like domestic abuse and death… and you will ‘see’ how faith is affected. However, you’ll also see love and how true love can heal a broken heart.

So, if you like a book that speaks to the heart, one that’s emotional and intense yet also fun with lighthearted moments, then this book will grab you.

🤔 OBSERVATIONS:

… I love how faith is presented and backed up with scripture, but not in a preachy way. I also love how doubt is shown realistically and how its been around since Adam and Eve.

… Sometimes a broken heart can heal another broken heart.

… There comes a time when one needs to look forward instead of backwards.

… Little Teddy is precious. We see how children can be affected in ways where they did nothing wrong but live with the consequences of those who did.

… How can you not love Peanut Butter, the cat 🥰

… As the book shows: God is in the right place at the right time.

[Christie Pollard · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zeb is a widowed police officer in the small town of River Falls, Tennessee. When Tori comes to town to avoid her ex who has just been released from prison, Zeb gives her a ticket. Tori will be staying in her grandmother’s home and taking care of her flower shop while she is on vacation. She has a special-needs son who is about six. Zeb is still in love with his deceased wife, and Tori is afraid to give her heart away again. Can this couple put their past behind them and allow God’s healing touch to bring them together?

This is a wonderful, well-written book with great characters, an interesting story, and great Christian aspects. All the main characters are likable, but I fell in love with Tori’s son Teddy. Included in this book are prayer, scripture, family, and trusting the Lord. I would list the theme as “hope.”

A few of the great quotations are, “But God was showing him that He was always faithful, no matter what kind of ay Zeb was having.”
“Sometimes it means teaching us not to ask, ‘What are you doing, Lord?’ but to proclaim, ‘I trust that you know what you’re doing, Lord, and that’s enough for me.’”

I received a copy of this book from the author. My review is entirely voluntary and unbiased.

[Vicki Hanacek · Rating 5 out of 5]

Valerie Bodden’s best book yet...

I was moved to tears by the trauma in Tori’s life and by Zeb’s feelings of disloyalty to his deceased wife as he began to have feelings for Tori. Each one had emotional issues brought about by the deaths of loved ones. Tori felt that her twin sister’s

death had been her fault and that she should have been the one to die. Zeb was troubled because he was not able to protect his wife from the accident that killed her, and he worried about being able to protect Tori and her special needs son.

The sermons and prayers were excellent and very moving. The author sprinkles Scripture throughout this book, but is not the least bit preachy. I had great difficulty putting my Kindle down in order to do chores, cook, sleep, you name it. This is such a beautiful story and a great reminder that God works in ways beyond our understanding. He does not necessarily protect us from all problems, but He is always with us as we go through them.

I highly recommend this book to readers who enjoy clean books with interesting and likable characters. Although part of a series, each book may be read independently of the others.

Disclosure: I was given a free ARC and am voluntarily leaving this unbiased review.

[Lynn Sell · Rating 5 out of 5]

This author is fabulous at writing Christian romance. The characters are flawed and believable. Their storyline pulls you immediately into the story and won’t let you go. This small town has you feel like you are right there in the story with them. I absolutely love the sermons in her books as they always seem to apply to something that I am going through or that I really need to hear. This story is of two people who knew each other in the past and now have to get past the trials they have been through to find love for themselves. Zeb is a police officer who lost his wife and unborn child in an accident a couple of years ago and has been unable to move on with his life. Tori has left her home to move in with her grandmother to help with her flower store with her son after her abusive ex was released from prison. As Zeb continues to be a friend to Tori and her son, Teddy, they become closer but with each afraid to tell the other how they feel. As they go through their troubles both together and apart, they find their true love for each other and have a HEA. In this book, Teddy definitely stole the show for me and I loved how Zeb was with him

[Diana Acord · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 6th book in Valerie Bodden’s River Falls series. Every time I read the next book in this series I have a new favorite! I have been eagerly waiting for Zeb’s story and was not disappointed. The story features difficult topics of Zeb’s spouse/unborn baby sudden death and Tori’s trauma from domestic violence. Both issues from their past is explained without the reader being traumatized. We are introduced to Teddy, a wonderful special needs 6-year-old little boy who will delight the reader throughout the entire book. As the story unfolds, the reader will cheer for the characters to have the healing they need to move on in their lives. The story is filled with appropriate Biblical references and sermons that coincide with the storyline of praising God and healing with God’s joy and the promise of God’s mercy for past mistakes. This story will bring tears as well as laughter and it features the rest of the large Calvano family. This is and wonderful read you don’t want to miss and another 5-star winner for Mrs. Bodden.

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

[Trudy Cordle · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved Zeb and Tori's story!! So worth the wait to finally get his story!! Though I'm sorry the series is ending!! Zeb and Tori's brother, Clayton, have been best friends for years, so when Clayton asks Zeb to keep an eye on her and her son, Teddy, Zeb is ready. What he's not ready for are the feelings she stirs in him. Tori isn't looking for someone to protect her. She wants to show her family that she's not a screw up and that she can take of herself, her son, and Gran's flower shop just fine on her own. What she doesn't expect is for the crush she had on her brother's friend to come back in full force and explode into something more. As both struggle with their feelings of not being worthy, not being in control, and not wanting to fall in love, they both help each other in their walks with God. When trouble comes, Zeb is there to help, but when more trouble comes, is it too late for them to have a chance at happiness together?? Such a great book! Teddy almost steals the show, though!!!

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

[Madge E · Rating 5 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book. Tori moved to another state to live with her grandmother because she was afraid of her ex-husband who was being released from prison after physically assaulting her. On her way into town, she was stopped by a police officer for driving too fast and too recklessly. The police officer turned out to be her brother, Clayton's, best friend who she'd had a crush on when she was younger. And he gave her a ticket! Then she found out that the police officer, Zeb, lived next door to her grandmother. Over time, they become good friends. Zeb's had lost his wife and unborn child in a car accident three years before, and was still missing her badly. Tori had lost her sister in a car accident when Tori was driving, and she still felt guilty like it was her fault. So they both had a hard history to overcome. The storyline in this book is really good and has a lot of twists and turns. It has some really precious and funny parts with Tori's son, Teddy. It also has some really good biblical teaching. I think you will really enjoy this!

[J. Gilmour · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had the opportunity to review this book by the author.
Zeb Calvano, a police officer and protector, is asked by his friend to watch over his sister, Tori and Teddy, her special needs son. Zeb is a widower and feels lonely at times and misses his wife, but he is content to spend time with his dad and siblings.

Tori Christensen is visiting her grandmother to help out in her flower shop and will work in the shop while her grandmother takes a vacation. Tori left an abusive relationship and wants to raise her son Teddy in a better environment. She feels broken and does not have faith in God.
Zeb meets Tori, but they don’t get along too well at first. He helps her out in a few situations and becomes a friend to Teddy. In time, Zeb and Tori get to know each other better and become friends. Zeb encourages Tori to have hope in God.

A heartwarming story of brokenness, hope, and renewed faith in God.

[Victoria · Rating 5 out of 5]

I fell in love with the characters in this book. Zeb Calvano, the heartbroken widower who is still grieving his wife, was such a strong and appealing male main character and Tori, his next door neighbor, was his deceased wife’s opposite in many ways but she won his heart just as she was. I especially enjoyed Teddy, Tori’s son who suffered some developmental issues due to an injury en utero. He was a bright spot throughout the book. The story was full of hope and was very uplifting but readers should be aware of possible triggers: death of a spouse, death of a child, domestic violence. There is a strong Christian emphasis in this book that speaks of trusting God and surrendering to His will even when things are hard. I thought the teaching was especially helpful for anyone who has asked God “Why?” (all of us). Highly recommend! I received an ARC from the author. All opinions expressed are strictly my own.

[Bukola Adeniyi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Valerie has outdone herself with this book. God is do good. I’m so blessed to have found this series. Every single book has had a message that absolutely resonates. I’m happy that Zeb and Tori could have a story as wonderful as this. Zeb has definitely gone through a lot with losing his wife and unborn child but I thank God that he is able to trust in the Lord again and like Job was restored double what he lost through Tori and Teddy. It wasn’t easy but I’m happy that he was able to see how those situations shaped him and molded him. People get upset when you say these things but I think it’s the truth. Obviously yes, no one wants to lose a loved one but I think through Christ, we’re able to lean on and see the good even in situations like that. I’m definitely keeping Zebulun as a name for a son. The core message of Psalm 42 is on that I’m trying to also adhere by so to have it be so prominent in this book was eye-opening. Thank you Valerie for letting God use you with this series.

[Margaret Nelson · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the sixth book in Bodden’s River Falls series, although you don’t have to read them in order (but it does help know who is who). Once again, have your tissues handy -- there are some emotional scenes and brokenness in this story! I also laughed a lot in between the tears. The characters are wonderful – there are several adorable children that capture your heart, as well as the adults who need to surrender and trust God to work things out. Then there’s Peanut Butter. You’ll have to read the book to find out who that is. Lots of plot twists to keep you reading until midnight.

"I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own."

[Linda Marsh · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tori Christiansen and her special needs son, Teddy, travel to River Falls so Tori can manage her grandmother’s flower shop for a few weeks while her grandmother travels.

Living next door is Zeb Calvano, a local police officer, who lost his pregnant wife a couple of years ago in a fatal car accident. Zeb is having a hard time moving past his loss, and being around Tori and Teddy awakens feelings and yearnings for the future that he has not felt since his wife died.

This is a Christian story about Tori and Zeb’s journeys to overcome hurtful circumstances that changed their lives, and made them apprehensive of the future. They learn to trust God more and look forward instead of in the past. This is a wonderful story you will enjoy reading if you enjoy Christian romance.

[Bernadette Cinkoske · Rating 5 out of 5]

Hearts of Hope is a warm, uplifting, Christian romance full of hope, healing, forgiveness and redemption! Ms. Bodden's books always provide a special peace and grace besides a great story. Possible triggers for some include death of a spouse and domestic abuse. Tori and Zeb have both endured a lot, but maybe they can both find their way out of the past and into the future God has planned for them. This well written book has serious themes, but also fun times. Tori's son is a darling - and a scene stealer! The book works as a stand alone, but I have read all six and therefore have a deeper appreciation of the wonderful Calvano family and the healing that can be found in River Falls. I am sad the series is ending, but I am certain there will be another just as fabulous!

[Joan Arning · Rating 5 out of 5]

Valerie Bodden has written another winner! I loved returning to River Falls and the characters who live there! You will love how Tori Christiansen and her young son return to run her grandmother's flower shop while Gran takes a long awaited trip. But her brother's long time friend and police office, Zeb Calvano, gives Valerie a ticket as soon as she reaches town! It doesn't help that Zeb lives next door to Gran and Tori's son loves policemen! You will wonder if the handsome widower is ready for his heart to heal and if Valerie is ready to try a relationship after being with an abuser. I did not want to put Hearts of Hope down! I received a complimentary e-book from the author. This is my honest opinion.

[Adpa · Rating 5 out of 5]

A widower who can't get past the loss of the love of his life who died 3 years earlier. And the sister of his childhood friend -- she feels unloved and like a failure to herself, to her family. Due to different difficulties in her life, she feels far away from God and has no desire to change that view.
This book is an excellent, heartwarming story, filled with trials, faith, family, and hope. I love how the author weaves inspiration and faith into the lives of her characters and offers realistic hope and wisdom in the stories.
This is one book not to be missed!
I was provided with an advanced copy of the book; this review is given voluntarily and and honestly.

[Sandra Hartzel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I had an ARC for this book, but this is my voluntary and honest opinion. Policeman Zeb Calvano lost his wife three years ago and has not been interested in dating since. When his friend’s sister comes to stay with her Gram, his next-door neighbor, to help run her flower shop while she is on vacation. Tori Christianson feels like she is a mess up and disaster follows her. After several unsuccessful attempts to let each other know how they feel, Tori ends up leaving town after Zeb has a concussion. This is an interesting and uplifting inspirational story about second chances, God’s love and moving forward.

[Paula · Rating 5 out of 5]

Zeb and Tori have both suffered grief just in different ways. They first encounter when she returns to town is comical - well it was later. Her son Teddy is so sweet, my heart hurt for him, and has the best attitude. While this is a romance, I loved how the author brought in so much more into their story, family, acceptance - Max with Teddy, friendship as well as real life suffering. As a believer I appreciated that the author showed how the characters struggled with unbelief and how the Lord draws us back to Himself. The ending is one of the best. I have enjoyed this series and will miss going back to River Falls. Maybe in the future we will read about the children growing up. hint

[Carol Brandon · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another book by Valerie that deftly weaves faith into the story. Zeb is a widower struggling to move on, after the death of his wife. Tori is a single mom, who was a victim of domestic abuse. Through the course of the book, they examine where God has been through their trials. Has He abandoned them? Does He want their happiness? What is His purpose in our sufferings - or is there one? I found the book made me ponder these universal questions. I love books that make me think about my faith. I received a free copy of this book, with no obligation.

[Lyn Herbohn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lots of emotion!

Zeb lost his wife and unborn child earlier in the series, and his grief was still strong in this book. Tori had also experienced deep loss and guilt, however while Zeb’s faith stayed strong, Tori had no interest in God. I often got emotional at Zeb’s sorrow, even as he started to develop feelings for Tori. Teddy was gorgeous , and it was great to read more about familiar characters. I’m hoping some of Tori’s family might get their own stories sometime! A great read.

[Sue Peacock · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is Hope

Zeb’s story has seemed so tragic through this series, so I am especially glad he found his happy ending with Tori. They both went through so much, and it took a lot to remind them that God is a God of Hope. I have loved the sermons in these books —the closeness and faith each family member has shared. I remind my family often that God can turn bruises into blessings, and He never wastes a hurt. This story had this strong message in each character’s life. Sad to see it end.

[Sandy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tori didn't quite get to her Gran's before she received a speeding ticket and lecture from Officer Zeb. Then to find out he lives next door! One more thing to go wrong...

Enjoyed seeing Zeb and Tori work out their issues and learn how to manage their fears and lives through Bible Study, family, and prayers. Seeing them learning to live in hope with God instead of focusing on their wants or circumstances was inspiring.

Received an ARC and this is my honest, unsolicited review.

[Debbie · Rating 5 out of 5]

In this book you will read about the loss of a spouse, abuse and two amazing families. When Tori and Teddy went to stay with Gram their lives will change forever. Zeb is still grieving his wife’s dearth when Tori’s brother reaches out to him. Tori and Zeb have known each other for years. Can they have more than a friend relationship? The author will have you on the edge of your seat waiting to see what happens next.

[Jennifer · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love the latest book from Valerie M. Bodden! I always know when I pick up one of her books that I won’t be able to put it down. Hers are the kind of books that you save for when you know you are going to have a long wait at the doctor’s office or in the car because time flies when you are reading one of her novels. This volume is more of the same. The book draws you in from the very beginning and you can’t stop reading until you find out the main characters’ fate.

[Pat · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Zeb agrees to watch over his best friend's sister, he didn't expect it to be so difficult. Being around Tori and her son, Teddy, triggers memories of his wife and unborn child who died in an accident. I got a little tired of Tori blaming herself for everything that went wrong. Teddy has special needs and is adorable. His love for Zeb's cat Peanut Butter is so fun. I love the scripture references in the story. The ending is wonderful. I received an ARC. This is my voluntary opinion.

[Bukky Adeniyi · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow!!

Valerie has outdone herself with this book. God is do good. I’m so blessed to have found this series. Every single book has had a message that absolutely resonates. I’m happy that Zeb and Tori could have a story as wonderful as this. I’m definitely keeping Zebulun as a name for a son. The core message of Psalm 42 is on that I’m trying to also adhere by so to have it be so prominent in this book was eye-opening. Thank you Valerie for letting God use you with this series.

[ELK Kissling · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow! What a conclusion to this series! This book takes you in quite a path with the ups and downs Zeb and Tori have been on. I love how they both wrestle with asking God the hard questions about the fairness of life. I think this is a healthy and Godly practice to wrestle with the authenticity of your faith. Not only does Valerie write great stories, the biblical truths in her books are excellent.