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Maybe It's Fate
In a moving story of love and loss, a corporate consultant leaves her life behind to care for her dying friend’s children—and finds hope with the small-town coach who steps up to the plate with her.
From the author of The Art of Starting Over comes a heartfelt portrait of what it means to build a family, as a young woman navigates grief, guardianship, and the bittersweet gift of falling in love.
The only thing that could pull Antonia Bernardi away from her high-powered career is her lifelong best friend. And with two children and a cruel prognosis, Miriam Vaughn needs her now more than ever.
Antonia drops everything—her job, her relationship—to be there for the Vaughns. Playing mom to Miriam’s teenage son and seven-year-old daughter is a tall order made heavier by grief. But the kids need her, and she needs them.
Then there’s the boy’s coach and mentor, former MLB star Weston Schmidt. He’s a pillar of support, a safe space for Antonia to rest. But there’s too much going on to even think about romance … or maybe that’s exactly why they should.
Adjusting to life without her best friend, Antonia leans into her new role as guardian, doing work she loves and repairing the old farmhouse Miriam cherished. Nothing can stop the world from spinning—but Antonia has every reason to keep on going.
From the author of The Art of Starting Over comes a heartfelt portrait of what it means to build a family, as a young woman navigates grief, guardianship, and the bittersweet gift of falling in love.
The only thing that could pull Antonia Bernardi away from her high-powered career is her lifelong best friend. And with two children and a cruel prognosis, Miriam Vaughn needs her now more than ever.
Antonia drops everything—her job, her relationship—to be there for the Vaughns. Playing mom to Miriam’s teenage son and seven-year-old daughter is a tall order made heavier by grief. But the kids need her, and she needs them.
Then there’s the boy’s coach and mentor, former MLB star Weston Schmidt. He’s a pillar of support, a safe space for Antonia to rest. But there’s too much going on to even think about romance … or maybe that’s exactly why they should.
Adjusting to life without her best friend, Antonia leans into her new role as guardian, doing work she loves and repairing the old farmhouse Miriam cherished. Nothing can stop the world from spinning—but Antonia has every reason to keep on going.
319 pages, Paperback
First published April 1, 2026
About the author
Heidi McLaughlin
126 books7,506 followersHeidi McLaughlin is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author of The Beaumont Series, The Boys of Summer, and The Archers.
In 2012, Heidi turned her passion for reading into a full-fledged literary career, writing over twenty novels, including the acclaimed Forever My Girl.
Heidi’s first novel, Forever My Girl, has been adapted into a motion picture with LD Entertainment and Roadside Attractions, starring Alex Roe and Jessica Rothe, and opened in theaters on January 19, 2018.
To stay connected with Heidi visit www.facebook.com/authorheidimclaughlin or heidimclaughlin.com
In 2012, Heidi turned her passion for reading into a full-fledged literary career, writing over twenty novels, including the acclaimed Forever My Girl.
Heidi’s first novel, Forever My Girl, has been adapted into a motion picture with LD Entertainment and Roadside Attractions, starring Alex Roe and Jessica Rothe, and opened in theaters on January 19, 2018.
To stay connected with Heidi visit www.facebook.com/authorheidimclaughlin or heidimclaughlin.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 468 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
REVIEW TO COME💔💔😭😭!!!!!!!
💔✂️I feel like ugly crying this weekend💔✂️!!!!!!!
💔✂️I feel like ugly crying this weekend💔✂️!!!!!!!
May 11, 2026
Following an accidental pregnancy, and a deadbeat boyfriend, who wants nothing to do with Miri and their baby, her BFF Tony, vows to always be by her side and care for her kids if anything were to happen to her. Unfortunately, that promise would come to mean everything later, when Miri finds out she is to battle terminal cancer.
Based on my star rating, it’s obvious I did not like this book. Here are my reasons why.
1. It lacked emotion. The themes here are very heavy. There should’ve been an emotional reaction, but instead, I was just bored.
2. The writing came off as very immature. It lacked flow, and if I didn’t know better, I would’ve guessed it was written by a high schooler or a very young adult.
3. The amount of idle chit-chat and non pertinent information dragged the story on for a painful amount of time and kept the plot from moving forward.
4. There were a few things I think could have been minimal parts of the story that weren’t. (The boyfriend arch and Cutter’s POV, for example.)
5. The book is categorized as a romance and I didn’t see anything romantic about it. The relationship with the boyfriend lasted way too long and Tony’s relationship with Wes felt rushed in the end because of it.
Based on my star rating, it’s obvious I did not like this book. Here are my reasons why.
1. It lacked emotion. The themes here are very heavy. There should’ve been an emotional reaction, but instead, I was just bored.
2. The writing came off as very immature. It lacked flow, and if I didn’t know better, I would’ve guessed it was written by a high schooler or a very young adult.
3. The amount of idle chit-chat and non pertinent information dragged the story on for a painful amount of time and kept the plot from moving forward.
4. There were a few things I think could have been minimal parts of the story that weren’t. (The boyfriend arch and Cutter’s POV, for example.)
5. The book is categorized as a romance and I didn’t see anything romantic about it. The relationship with the boyfriend lasted way too long and Tony’s relationship with Wes felt rushed in the end because of it.
April 5, 2026
3 Stars ⭐️
April 1, 2026
Was this my first Heidi book? I'm not sure, but I think it must've been.
And it was ... hearbreaking. I think I cried from the first chapter all the way to the end.
I kind of expected something a little different from reading the blurb. I thought her friend died and then she 'inherits' the kids and we go from there - with 'just' a little bit of sadness in the past. But it was so much worse. We get so many heartbreaking and sad moments. Ugh.
But it was also so very sweet and adorable and funny and I loved all the people and the dog and the locations.
I want my own Weston and my own Cutter too - if I was a few tiny decades younger. LOL.
It could've been a tiny bit longer. With more falling in love moments and not so many quick summaries of what happened the last few months - especially towards the end. I just wanted more. More sad kids moments. More Toni + Weston. More HGTV projects. There was room and potential for so much more. But I still loved reading it.
MAYBE IT'S FATE was such a heartbreaking and sweet and beautiful story about family and friendship and life and love and grief and finding happiness and so much more! Read it!
click ► HERE! to buy the book!
April 3, 2026
El libro esta lleno de emociones y siento que si bien hay romance entre los protagonistas ese no es el punto principal del libro ya que la mayor parte nos "muestra" como es la vida cuando la persona que amamos sabe que en algún momento va a partir, sin avisos y de un día para el otro. Me gusta mucho que hubiera puntos de vista de diferentes personajes porque ayudaba a comprender sus sentimientos.
Antonia es una gran mujer, hermana y amiga y el papel que tomo cuando descubrió lo de Miri fue muy importante y admirable porque a pesar de su dolor se esforzo para hacer las últimas semanas de su mejor amiga las mas felices del mundo porque quería que se fuera con la tranquilidad de que sus bebés serían cuidados y criados en un hogar lleno de amor. Además estaba pasando por una ruptura que siento que esta situación la ayudo a darse cuenta que su ex no era su persona para pasar el resto de su vida juntos, porque con el ultimátum que le dió su ex se dió cuenta que sus metas personales eran diferentes y que era hora de poner sus emociones y sueños en primer lugar sin dejarse influenciar por un hombre que la quería pero no la amaba.
Weston es muy lindo y me encanta su personaje tan amable y lleno de amor para todo el mundo, el fue una gran figura parterna para Cutter y un gran compañero para apoyar y aconsejar a Antonia en este momento tan difícil que estaba pasando y como todo caballero cuando descubrió que estaba en pareja dió un paso al constado para no complicar las cosas pero cuando se dió cuenta que estaba soltera dió lo mejor de su para conquistarla sin abrumarla y abriendo su corazón, hablando de un futuro estando juntos, criando a los niños en un hogar lleno de amor y felicidad ♥️🫂
Antonia es una gran mujer, hermana y amiga y el papel que tomo cuando descubrió lo de Miri fue muy importante y admirable porque a pesar de su dolor se esforzo para hacer las últimas semanas de su mejor amiga las mas felices del mundo porque quería que se fuera con la tranquilidad de que sus bebés serían cuidados y criados en un hogar lleno de amor. Además estaba pasando por una ruptura que siento que esta situación la ayudo a darse cuenta que su ex no era su persona para pasar el resto de su vida juntos, porque con el ultimátum que le dió su ex se dió cuenta que sus metas personales eran diferentes y que era hora de poner sus emociones y sueños en primer lugar sin dejarse influenciar por un hombre que la quería pero no la amaba.
Weston es muy lindo y me encanta su personaje tan amable y lleno de amor para todo el mundo, el fue una gran figura parterna para Cutter y un gran compañero para apoyar y aconsejar a Antonia en este momento tan difícil que estaba pasando y como todo caballero cuando descubrió que estaba en pareja dió un paso al constado para no complicar las cosas pero cuando se dió cuenta que estaba soltera dió lo mejor de su para conquistarla sin abrumarla y abriendo su corazón, hablando de un futuro estando juntos, criando a los niños en un hogar lleno de amor y felicidad ♥️🫂
November 26, 2025
4⭐️ I chose to read this ARC as the plot sounded like an emotional rollercoaster, and it is exactly that. I think I cried a good few times from beginning to end.
First of all, the main storyline being Toni and Miri's relationship, is a dream. You truly feel the love that these two characters have for one another, more so Toni with her being the FMC. I enjoyed all the different POVs and learning about each character's own relationship with Miri and their own journey with grief. The whole plot was written really well.
Toni and Weston's relationship was kind of subtle, growing in the background, which I appreciated for this storyline. A romance can easily turn distasteful in a plot like this, but I didn't once get that feeling. Towards the end I wish there were more details and development into their relationship, maybe it was a bit rushed.
I also feel that there were some plot developments that never came to a head, I was expecting some things to happen that just didn't.
Overall, a lovely, emotional book. I would recommend to someone looking for a good cry!
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC in return for an honest review🤍
First of all, the main storyline being Toni and Miri's relationship, is a dream. You truly feel the love that these two characters have for one another, more so Toni with her being the FMC. I enjoyed all the different POVs and learning about each character's own relationship with Miri and their own journey with grief. The whole plot was written really well.
Toni and Weston's relationship was kind of subtle, growing in the background, which I appreciated for this storyline. A romance can easily turn distasteful in a plot like this, but I didn't once get that feeling. Towards the end I wish there were more details and development into their relationship, maybe it was a bit rushed.
I also feel that there were some plot developments that never came to a head, I was expecting some things to happen that just didn't.
Overall, a lovely, emotional book. I would recommend to someone looking for a good cry!
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC in return for an honest review🤍
November 21, 2025
I have an Ugly Cry booklist and for eight years the same title has been at the top, but no more. Maybe it's Fate now sits there. There is a good reason for that. Maybe It's Fate is a story of love, friendship and heartache reminding the reader that life is not always fair. It's worth the pain and the tears, in order to gain the moments you’ll treasure forever. I had periods of crying to the very end. Not sniffles. Huge, crocodile tears. Best Friends Forever has gained new meaning thanks to Heidi McLaughlin's book.
As teens, Toni promised to always be there for Miri's unborn child. It was a promise most make without thinking about the future. The time has come and Toni doesn't let Miri down. Toni is there for the long goodbye. Toni is there for the children and Miri. She picks up and moves to a small town leaving her life in Boston in the rearview mirror.
Toni finds a new friend in Weston. She is one lucky girl. He is not only a neighbor but he is a retired professional baseball player turned high school coach. He doesn't take no for answer. He stands by her side through the difficult times. He becomes so much more for Toni, for the family. The slow burn romance took some of the pain away for Toni, for the reader.
The real life situations added so much to the story. I found myself completely invested in the characters. The story's flow never faltered. Having Cutter, Miri's son, have his own chapters was absolute genius. The reader gets a better perspective. The emotions---just WOW.
As teens, Toni promised to always be there for Miri's unborn child. It was a promise most make without thinking about the future. The time has come and Toni doesn't let Miri down. Toni is there for the long goodbye. Toni is there for the children and Miri. She picks up and moves to a small town leaving her life in Boston in the rearview mirror.
Toni finds a new friend in Weston. She is one lucky girl. He is not only a neighbor but he is a retired professional baseball player turned high school coach. He doesn't take no for answer. He stands by her side through the difficult times. He becomes so much more for Toni, for the family. The slow burn romance took some of the pain away for Toni, for the reader.
The real life situations added so much to the story. I found myself completely invested in the characters. The story's flow never faltered. Having Cutter, Miri's son, have his own chapters was absolute genius. The reader gets a better perspective. The emotions---just WOW.
March 25, 2026
This rating is generous.
May 4, 2026
Maybe It's Fate is a poignant story of friends who have become family over the course of time. Antonia, Toni, lives in Boston and has a high powered job she's very good at. Her best friend, Miri, lives in a small town in the country with her 2 kids. They see each other on planned weekends and holidays as they're only a few hours apart. One day, Toni gets a phone call from Miri, and it changes everything. Miri tell her she's sick and she needs her to come today. Toni tells her boyfriend who's also her boss that she needs to go and isn't sure when she'll be back. She packs a few things, jumps in the car, and starts driving to Miri. When she's close, she calls her and tells her she'll be there shortly. Miri tells her she's in the hospital and to come there instead of the house. Since she just passed the hospital, Toni turns around and is visibly shaken. Miri and Toni have been best friends since they were 3 years old. They are each others rock, they are sisters in every sense of the word. Toni can't lose Miri. This can't be happening.
When Miri finds out from the myriad of tests she's undergone that she has cancer, the prognosis is not good. Treatments will help her to have a bit longer with her kids than no treatment so she opts for that. Toni is devastated by the prognosis and makes the only decision she can. Toni will stay with Miri and the kids to make things easier. She'll work remotely and go to Boston when needed for her job. As they begin to navigate this fight ahead, the kids must be told. Miri's son is in high school and a tremendous athlete on the basketball and baseball teams. Her daughter is seven and loves cheering on her brother at his games. Helping the kids to deal with their mother's sickness and keeping things as normal as possible for them will be a huge part of Toni's role. You never know how strong you are until you don't have a choice.
The small town is wonderful and the people all know each other and want to help. Once Miri's diagnosis gets out, people show up to help in any way possible. Their neighbor 2 houses down is also the son's coach, Weston Schmidt. He has a happy dog that visits often and helps everyone deal with the stress a bit better. Weston also helps be a father figure and mentor to Miri's son. Weston helps with things that need fixing around the house, too. When the worst happens, Toni steps up and does what feels right to her. She would do anything for Miri and the kids, anything. This book will do a number on you and I recommend having a box of tissues next to you at all times! I lost count of the number of times I needed to reach for a tissue to wipe the tears away. Heidi McLaughlin has written a book about best friends and what they will do to help each other in the worst of times. It's a beautiful story with a lot of sadness. I rate Maybe It's Fate 5 stars with my highest recommendation. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Montlake Publishing for an advanced copy of Maybe It's Fate in exchange for a fair review. #MaybeItsFate
When Miri finds out from the myriad of tests she's undergone that she has cancer, the prognosis is not good. Treatments will help her to have a bit longer with her kids than no treatment so she opts for that. Toni is devastated by the prognosis and makes the only decision she can. Toni will stay with Miri and the kids to make things easier. She'll work remotely and go to Boston when needed for her job. As they begin to navigate this fight ahead, the kids must be told. Miri's son is in high school and a tremendous athlete on the basketball and baseball teams. Her daughter is seven and loves cheering on her brother at his games. Helping the kids to deal with their mother's sickness and keeping things as normal as possible for them will be a huge part of Toni's role. You never know how strong you are until you don't have a choice.
The small town is wonderful and the people all know each other and want to help. Once Miri's diagnosis gets out, people show up to help in any way possible. Their neighbor 2 houses down is also the son's coach, Weston Schmidt. He has a happy dog that visits often and helps everyone deal with the stress a bit better. Weston also helps be a father figure and mentor to Miri's son. Weston helps with things that need fixing around the house, too. When the worst happens, Toni steps up and does what feels right to her. She would do anything for Miri and the kids, anything. This book will do a number on you and I recommend having a box of tissues next to you at all times! I lost count of the number of times I needed to reach for a tissue to wipe the tears away. Heidi McLaughlin has written a book about best friends and what they will do to help each other in the worst of times. It's a beautiful story with a lot of sadness. I rate Maybe It's Fate 5 stars with my highest recommendation. I'd like to thank NetGalley and Montlake Publishing for an advanced copy of Maybe It's Fate in exchange for a fair review. #MaybeItsFate
May 4, 2026
This is a good story and I was still thinking about it after I finished. There were parts of the writing that I struggled with... Certain parts read like I was reading a grocery list but overall it was a good read. There are tough topics here, specifically cancer and death. The way Toni deals with the news was so well written in explaining her grieving process. The romance in this was cute and unfolded pretty naturally until the end when things went kind of fast.
The narration was fantastic! I loved the emotions portrayed by the narrators.
(Random but: Personally, I could have done without the son's chapter about his girlfriend but that's probably nitpicky, lol)
The narration was fantastic! I loved the emotions portrayed by the narrators.
(Random but: Personally, I could have done without the son's chapter about his girlfriend but that's probably nitpicky, lol)
April 6, 2026
4.25⭐
Learning her lifelong closest friend has a terminal diagnosis, Antonia steps up to take care of her and her two children. An emotional and sweet journey that lies more on the finding a path through grief instead of the travails and heartbreak. I even read it in one sitting. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
Learning her lifelong closest friend has a terminal diagnosis, Antonia steps up to take care of her and her two children. An emotional and sweet journey that lies more on the finding a path through grief instead of the travails and heartbreak. I even read it in one sitting. Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for the complimentary copy. All opinions are my own.
May 18, 2026
This was honestly such a nice change in theme for me since I’ve only been reading thrillers this year. It made me cry but it was also very cute. I just wish that there was a bit more romance in it, I feel the main relationship was very rushed. But all in all, I did enjoy this
May 2, 2026
This was a phenomenal story about friendship, love, and loss.
March 22, 2026
This book was incredibly predictable, but I also cried my eyes out multiple times while reading! Would recommend!
April 15, 2026
3★
it was an okay read overall. while the story had emotional moments that genuinely made me cry, it often felt uneven in its pacing—some parts were rushed, while others dragged on longer than necessary boring the hell out of me.
there was also a sense of repetition throughout that made certain scenes feel less impactful than they could have been.
the romance was meh. didn’t enjoy it much.
overall, i think the idea behind this book was genuinely a good one, but its development was… well, not good.
i feel like the author didn’t portray grief, loss, guardianship—which are the main themes—in the right way.
basically, it doesn’t quite stand out as anything particularly special.
February 14, 2026
Thank you NetGalley, HaperCollins and Alexandria Bellefleur for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
2.75⭐️ rounded up.
This book hit me straight in the heart. This is the second book I’ve read from this author and both were very emotional.
The storyline itself was interesting and a beautiful example of friendship and found family.
I hate to say it but where I struggled was the writing itself. This felt like reading step by step instructions to lose a friend/mom - there wasn’t enough emotion and showing in the writing. The story was told in 3 perspectives - Toni, Weston and Cutter. I feel like we got to know Toni the best but I felt like Weston and Cutter were slightly underdeveloped and pretty basic characters. Cutter was sad about his mom but very focused on his girlfriend and sports. Weston was immediately obsessed with Toni and had little else we knew about him. He had some serious cheesy lines and inner monologue that made me concerned he might not survive.
I still think it’s worth a read but the writing wasn’t to the level I was expecting.
2.75⭐️ rounded up.
This book hit me straight in the heart. This is the second book I’ve read from this author and both were very emotional.
The storyline itself was interesting and a beautiful example of friendship and found family.
I hate to say it but where I struggled was the writing itself. This felt like reading step by step instructions to lose a friend/mom - there wasn’t enough emotion and showing in the writing. The story was told in 3 perspectives - Toni, Weston and Cutter. I feel like we got to know Toni the best but I felt like Weston and Cutter were slightly underdeveloped and pretty basic characters. Cutter was sad about his mom but very focused on his girlfriend and sports. Weston was immediately obsessed with Toni and had little else we knew about him. He had some serious cheesy lines and inner monologue that made me concerned he might not survive.
I still think it’s worth a read but the writing wasn’t to the level I was expecting.
Review of advance copy
Not even going to comment on the poor writing. Vaguely misogynistic.
April 18, 2026
I really enjoyed this book but for reasons that aren’t in the traditional review sense. As far as the storyline and plot went, it was good. The prologue helped to set the scene for the story and convey the characters devotion to one another. I had originally thought that this story would be focused on Mariam’s journey but then there is a time jump and it switches to Antonia in chapter one. The romance was just ok, if anything the main focus was grief, loss and loved ones coming together to help each other cope. The writing and story was good but it was the author’s maturity that stole the show in my opinion. More times than not I read a book to find that the author is hyper focused on only offering their personal viewpoints/beliefs and any character with an opposing view is usually a poorly written, overly exaggerated stereotype as a way to further support the author’s personal opinions. 🤮 With this book though it was so refreshing to see tough topics being addressed with unbiased viewpoints. Right off the bat there is an unplanned pregnancy in the prologue. Something that stood out to me was when Carmela (the friend’s mom) first finds out Mariam is pregnant she says, “No matter which road you choose, it’s going to be hard.” Another moment in the story that I appreciated was when Antonia finds out her friend’s teenage son is about to have sex. She pulls him aside and tells him she isn’t happy about it and wishes he would wait. She goes into how it should only be done with someone you truly love and not at a young age because it complicates things and comes with a lot of potential consequences. She ultimately knows he’s going to do what he’s going to do as he’s basically 18 at this point but in addition to really pressing upon waiting she also makes sure he knows how to be safe. I have read so many books (YA if you can believe it) where it’s all about “sex positivity” and “I can’t talk to my own parents because they aren’t sex positive” so to see Antonia tell Cutter it’s best to wait and that sex comes with a lot of messy feelings and consequences it was kinda wholesome honestly. There were actually several different scenarios throughout the book that give examples of the author’s mindset and honesty that was my biggest take away. I’m glad I got a chance to review this ALC from Brilliance Publishing. It was just what I needed to get me out of my current romantasy reading slump that I’m in.
March 6, 2026
Thank you to Heidi McLaughlin, Montlake and NetGalley for this arc!
I’d never actually read anything by Heidi McLaughlin before, but I loved the film adaptation of Forever My Girl and probably watched it about a hundred times so I had a feeling this book might be my kind of story and I was so excited to get to read it early!
Maybe It’s Fate follows Antonia, who drops everything—her job, her relationship, her entire life—to support her lifelong best friend Miriam after she receives a devastating diagnosis. Antonia steps in to help raise her two kids and keep the life Miriam built from falling apart and finds unexpected support from Weston, a former MLB player who coaches Miriam’s son and slowly becomes someone she can lean on.
It’s been a while since a book had me this emotional from the very beginning (and that’s saying something because I’m pretty easy to set off…) but this one had me fully invested from page one. While I went in expecting a sweet romance with a bit of an emotional twist, what I got was a really beautiful found family story and the romance (although lovely) took a backseat for me. I ADORED Antonia! She was the kind of friend everyone hopes to have, and the way she stepped up for Miriam and her kids was honestly the highlight of the whole book. Watching their relationships grow and seeing how she showed up for them through had me an emotional wreck and I loved how the kids were with her.
Weston was great too, but if I had one complaint it’s that I feel like we only scratched the surface with his character. I would have loved to learn more about his background and spend more time with Weston and Toni actually being a couple. I could have just done with the book being a bit longer overall, because I’d happily have stayed in this story for another hundred pages just to see more from the characters and their new little life!
I know Heidi McLaughlin has written a few series before, so I’m not sure if this story is meant to be a standalone or the start of another series but I’d absolutely love to return to this world and see what these characters are up to in the future so fingers crossed!
All in all, this was a lovely, heartfelt read that had me in tears throughout. It definitely touches on some heavy topics, so it’s not the lightest story to get through but it was handled so well and I thoroughly enjoyed the journey from start to finish.
I’d never actually read anything by Heidi McLaughlin before, but I loved the film adaptation of Forever My Girl and probably watched it about a hundred times so I had a feeling this book might be my kind of story and I was so excited to get to read it early!
Maybe It’s Fate follows Antonia, who drops everything—her job, her relationship, her entire life—to support her lifelong best friend Miriam after she receives a devastating diagnosis. Antonia steps in to help raise her two kids and keep the life Miriam built from falling apart and finds unexpected support from Weston, a former MLB player who coaches Miriam’s son and slowly becomes someone she can lean on.
It’s been a while since a book had me this emotional from the very beginning (and that’s saying something because I’m pretty easy to set off…) but this one had me fully invested from page one. While I went in expecting a sweet romance with a bit of an emotional twist, what I got was a really beautiful found family story and the romance (although lovely) took a backseat for me. I ADORED Antonia! She was the kind of friend everyone hopes to have, and the way she stepped up for Miriam and her kids was honestly the highlight of the whole book. Watching their relationships grow and seeing how she showed up for them through had me an emotional wreck and I loved how the kids were with her.
Weston was great too, but if I had one complaint it’s that I feel like we only scratched the surface with his character. I would have loved to learn more about his background and spend more time with Weston and Toni actually being a couple. I could have just done with the book being a bit longer overall, because I’d happily have stayed in this story for another hundred pages just to see more from the characters and their new little life!
I know Heidi McLaughlin has written a few series before, so I’m not sure if this story is meant to be a standalone or the start of another series but I’d absolutely love to return to this world and see what these characters are up to in the future so fingers crossed!
All in all, this was a lovely, heartfelt read that had me in tears throughout. It definitely touches on some heavy topics, so it’s not the lightest story to get through but it was handled so well and I thoroughly enjoyed the journey from start to finish.
April 1, 2026
Toni's entire life changed the day her best friend called and told her she was sick. Toni and Miriam had been friends since before they could even remember. When Miriam got pregnant and her parents disowned her, it was Toni's family that took her in. Toni promised Miri back then that if anything happened, she would take care of her baby. Now, with two children and a fixer-upper farmhouse in the small town of Grove Hill, Miriam is diagnosed with cancer and a small amount of time left. Cutter is sixteen and Nova seven and both will need support through their grief, but how will Toni help them when she's so lost herself?
Weston retired from professional baseball after an injury, wanting to give back by coaching the next generation. He's grown close to Cutter, coaching him in both basketball and baseball, and also being his neighbor. When he sees Toni with Cutter and Nova, he's instantly attracted to her, something that's never happened since his divorce. Finding out the reason why she's in town and also that she's got a boyfriend is an unexpected blow to his heart. But he's determined to be there for this family in whatever way he can, even if just as a friend.
This heartbreaking story is told from the alternating perspectives of Toni, Weston, and Cutter. Grab the tissues for this one as each character navigates through the grief of losing a loved one too soon. But through the grief, Toni realizes what a real man will do to support her. She finds out what a narcissistic knob Brendan is in comparison to caring and supportive coach Weston, and I'm glad she finally realized how he felt about her. I don't usually go for tear-jerkers like this book, and I'm definitely ready for something happier, but I'm glad I read this.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own
Weston retired from professional baseball after an injury, wanting to give back by coaching the next generation. He's grown close to Cutter, coaching him in both basketball and baseball, and also being his neighbor. When he sees Toni with Cutter and Nova, he's instantly attracted to her, something that's never happened since his divorce. Finding out the reason why she's in town and also that she's got a boyfriend is an unexpected blow to his heart. But he's determined to be there for this family in whatever way he can, even if just as a friend.
This heartbreaking story is told from the alternating perspectives of Toni, Weston, and Cutter. Grab the tissues for this one as each character navigates through the grief of losing a loved one too soon. But through the grief, Toni realizes what a real man will do to support her. She finds out what a narcissistic knob Brendan is in comparison to caring and supportive coach Weston, and I'm glad she finally realized how he felt about her. I don't usually go for tear-jerkers like this book, and I'm definitely ready for something happier, but I'm glad I read this.
I received a complimentary copy of this book. The views and opinions expressed in this review are completely my own
April 5, 2026
Probably dating myself here, but as this book opened, I realized it was giving the same vibes as the movie Beaches and I needed to adjust myself to get ready for all that was going to come my way.
I really loved the friendship between Toni and Miri. Loved how when they were young they knew they could rely on each other, loved that when Miri called later in life, Toni dropped everything to be there for her and then changed her life to pick up what Miri had to leave behind. It was so heartbreaking to see this, yet also good. The good from knowing these two women had such a deep friendship Miri knew she could depend on her friend.
It was interesting to see Toni settle into life at Miri's house, both the before and the after. I liked that she didn't hide she was struggling from the kids, that they found ways to be there for each other and that Toni could be their safe spot and that the kids knew it. Interesting also, seeing how they all were after Miri was gone. I thought Cutter might turn into a little shit, so glad he didn't. Instead he found ways to honor his mother and still have a life, one in which Toni was the parental figure.
Weston was a bright spot in this one. I liked how instantly smitten he was with Toni, how he was there for the family in the before and after, how he let Toni know he wanted more. Sometimes with words, but most often with actions, just by being there for her and giving advice when asked.
The ending to this one had all sorts of hope, which was a good thing, these people deserve it after what they had been through.
I really loved the friendship between Toni and Miri. Loved how when they were young they knew they could rely on each other, loved that when Miri called later in life, Toni dropped everything to be there for her and then changed her life to pick up what Miri had to leave behind. It was so heartbreaking to see this, yet also good. The good from knowing these two women had such a deep friendship Miri knew she could depend on her friend.
It was interesting to see Toni settle into life at Miri's house, both the before and the after. I liked that she didn't hide she was struggling from the kids, that they found ways to be there for each other and that Toni could be their safe spot and that the kids knew it. Interesting also, seeing how they all were after Miri was gone. I thought Cutter might turn into a little shit, so glad he didn't. Instead he found ways to honor his mother and still have a life, one in which Toni was the parental figure.
Weston was a bright spot in this one. I liked how instantly smitten he was with Toni, how he was there for the family in the before and after, how he let Toni know he wanted more. Sometimes with words, but most often with actions, just by being there for her and giving advice when asked.
The ending to this one had all sorts of hope, which was a good thing, these people deserve it after what they had been through.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 16, 2026
Thank you Montlake , Heidi McLaughlin & NetGalley for the arc in exchange for an honest review.
If you want a good cry I highly recommend this book. This book is about love and loss and also full of emotional rollercoasters.
Antonia dropped everything. Her job and also relationship to be there for her lifelong best friend and her two children after Miriam was given a cruel prognosis. Antonia plays mum to Miriam's teenage son and seven year old daughter whilst they all grieve. The kids need her and she also needs them.
Miriam's teenage son coach and mentor, former MLB star Weston Schmidt becomes a pillar of support, a safe space for Antonia to rest.
The relationship between Antonia and Miriam was so beautiful. Everyone could only wish to have a relationship like they do. To have someone you know you can relay on when times get difficult and trust to look after your loved ones when your no longer here.
I love the fact that Antonia and Weston relationship was not on the full front and more of something in the background which I appreciated because the story is about Antonia. about her grief and healing.
If you want a good cry I highly recommend this book. This book is about love and loss and also full of emotional rollercoasters.
Antonia dropped everything. Her job and also relationship to be there for her lifelong best friend and her two children after Miriam was given a cruel prognosis. Antonia plays mum to Miriam's teenage son and seven year old daughter whilst they all grieve. The kids need her and she also needs them.
Miriam's teenage son coach and mentor, former MLB star Weston Schmidt becomes a pillar of support, a safe space for Antonia to rest.
The relationship between Antonia and Miriam was so beautiful. Everyone could only wish to have a relationship like they do. To have someone you know you can relay on when times get difficult and trust to look after your loved ones when your no longer here.
I love the fact that Antonia and Weston relationship was not on the full front and more of something in the background which I appreciated because the story is about Antonia. about her grief and healing.
April 16, 2026
In a small town called Grove Hill you have Antonia Bernardi and Miri Vaughn with her kids Cutter and Nova and also Weston Schmidt. Loved this story so much. Death is always scary and emotional but how you deal with it and grow says a lot. Toni works in Boston finding corporations needing financial help and they will either save them or buy them out. Toni and Miri have been best friends since they were very little. Toni is like her sister and aunt to her kids. Weston is a coach and teacher at the local high school and lives a few houses from Miri. Toni visits Miri and her kids as often possible since she lives in Boston. Unexpectedly Toni gets a call from Miri and begs her to come see her. She agrees immediately and rushes from Boston. When she gets to Grove Hill she heads straight to the hospital. The news is devastating and after all the tests are done even worse. Toni is in shock! But she will be there for her best friend and her kids. She has no idea what that entails but she will do whatever is necessary. She meets Cutter’s Coach Weston and he helps her a
lot. Come along and see how love and trust and determination help this family to grow and cope!
lot. Come along and see how love and trust and determination help this family to grow and cope!
March 26, 2026
Miriam and Antonia have been friends since they were three and that friendship is brought to fruition when Miriam ( the name Toni calls her) gets pregnant at 17. Her parents are angry and disown her so, she moves in with Toni and her family. Toni even changes her college plans and stays in Boston where they share an apartment and begin to raise Cutter together.
It's not until Miri buys a old house with a front porch on a dirt road that they go their separate ways. And now, Miri has Nova her young daughter, too.
It's now time for you to go get your Kleenex!!
Miri calls Toni to come as soon as possible because she's in the hospital. You guessed it...she has cancer and is going to die! Now that long ago promise for Toni to care for and protect her babies is front and center.
You'll see first hand the struggles for each of the women, Cutter and Nova and how the small town community comes together to support her. You'll learn that Toni's boyfriend of 4 years is a narcissistic jerk and you'll get to meet Cutter's basketball/baseball coach, Weston.
You'll see how Toni and the kids mesh their lives together and strive to have a "normal" life.
But, don't despair... there's a love story, too!
This is a wonderful (but, tearful) story of love, friendship, community and death and dying gracefully.
It's not until Miri buys a old house with a front porch on a dirt road that they go their separate ways. And now, Miri has Nova her young daughter, too.
It's now time for you to go get your Kleenex!!
Miri calls Toni to come as soon as possible because she's in the hospital. You guessed it...she has cancer and is going to die! Now that long ago promise for Toni to care for and protect her babies is front and center.
You'll see first hand the struggles for each of the women, Cutter and Nova and how the small town community comes together to support her. You'll learn that Toni's boyfriend of 4 years is a narcissistic jerk and you'll get to meet Cutter's basketball/baseball coach, Weston.
You'll see how Toni and the kids mesh their lives together and strive to have a "normal" life.
But, don't despair... there's a love story, too!
This is a wonderful (but, tearful) story of love, friendship, community and death and dying gracefully.
April 13, 2026
Wow! Tugs at the heartstrings
Well this story was certainly very sad in parts but also very beautiful in others, making me feel a gamut of emotions.
I loved Antonia and Miriam’s relationship, they were the best of friends but also so much more and when the worst happened Antonia was with Miriam every step of the way.
Antonia’s heart was breaking but she needed all the strength she could muster to see things through with Miriam and be there for Miriam’s two children.
This story was not only about loss but a new budding relationship between Antonia and Weston, which was very slow burn but beautiful as he was there for her no matter what.
It also told Miriam’s 17 year old son’s story as he tried to navigate his teenage years, a girlfriend and his baseball and basketball journey along with his mother’s illness.
I absolutely loved this story and cried repeatedly but also smiled a lot too.
It was so, so beautiful.
I listened to this audiobook which was narrated by Kacy Combest, Christian Barillas, Graham Halstead and Charlotte Lobdell.
Their performances were excellent and dealt beautifully with the emotions that were expressed throughout this book.
Thank you to Heidi McLaughlin, NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing / Brilliance Audio for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook.
Well this story was certainly very sad in parts but also very beautiful in others, making me feel a gamut of emotions.
I loved Antonia and Miriam’s relationship, they were the best of friends but also so much more and when the worst happened Antonia was with Miriam every step of the way.
Antonia’s heart was breaking but she needed all the strength she could muster to see things through with Miriam and be there for Miriam’s two children.
This story was not only about loss but a new budding relationship between Antonia and Weston, which was very slow burn but beautiful as he was there for her no matter what.
It also told Miriam’s 17 year old son’s story as he tried to navigate his teenage years, a girlfriend and his baseball and basketball journey along with his mother’s illness.
I absolutely loved this story and cried repeatedly but also smiled a lot too.
It was so, so beautiful.
I listened to this audiobook which was narrated by Kacy Combest, Christian Barillas, Graham Halstead and Charlotte Lobdell.
Their performances were excellent and dealt beautifully with the emotions that were expressed throughout this book.
Thank you to Heidi McLaughlin, NetGalley and Brilliance Publishing / Brilliance Audio for the opportunity to listen to this audiobook.
April 13, 2026
To be fully honest, this book review is so hard to even put into words. Normally I can read a book and make it through without any emotions showing, this book however had me in tears and threw me through an emotional ringer that took me a while to get over and be able to read my next book.
Toni promised her best friend that she would always be there for her no matter what. Miriam cash is in on that promise in a way that Toni never saw coming.
What will Tony do when her life is thrown into a tailspin because of a promise she made as a young girl to her best friend?
Weston is an unexpected friend that Toni did not see coming and promises to help her in any way that he can and is also trying to build her trust. Will Toni allow him to help, or will she try to do everything on her own?
The unexpected friendship that is brewing turns into a little more. However, will Weston and Toni be able to make it through all of the obstacles and heartache and real-life situations to make it to a happily ever after?
Again this book threw me through the ringer but in the best way and I truly believe this is a book everyone should read it shows so much true emotion and real life experiences that many of us go through.
Toni promised her best friend that she would always be there for her no matter what. Miriam cash is in on that promise in a way that Toni never saw coming.
What will Tony do when her life is thrown into a tailspin because of a promise she made as a young girl to her best friend?
Weston is an unexpected friend that Toni did not see coming and promises to help her in any way that he can and is also trying to build her trust. Will Toni allow him to help, or will she try to do everything on her own?
The unexpected friendship that is brewing turns into a little more. However, will Weston and Toni be able to make it through all of the obstacles and heartache and real-life situations to make it to a happily ever after?
Again this book threw me through the ringer but in the best way and I truly believe this is a book everyone should read it shows so much true emotion and real life experiences that many of us go through.
April 13, 2026
Antonia would do anything for her best friend. Even take a leave from her job. Miri her best friend since they were little an unplanned pregnancy that when her parents found out kicked her out. It was Antonia’s parents who took her in and gave her everything she could ever want or need.
When Miri called Antonia and said she needed her she dropped everything to the there for Miri and her two kids. Antonia was like an Aunt to her kids. When she arrived Antonia was dealt with the heartbreaking news that her best friend cancer.
Miri’s children needed Antonia to help them deal with the emotions of what they going through. Cutter the oldest was a star player in basketball and baseball. His coach, Weston offered to help with Cutter in any way he could. Weston wasn’t instantly in love with Antonia but she had so much on her plate that all he could do was help her with whatever she needed.
Antonia had to deal with her best friend while also caring for the children who were struggling themselves. Would the love from Weston help Antonia.
When Miri called Antonia and said she needed her she dropped everything to the there for Miri and her two kids. Antonia was like an Aunt to her kids. When she arrived Antonia was dealt with the heartbreaking news that her best friend cancer.
Miri’s children needed Antonia to help them deal with the emotions of what they going through. Cutter the oldest was a star player in basketball and baseball. His coach, Weston offered to help with Cutter in any way he could. Weston wasn’t instantly in love with Antonia but she had so much on her plate that all he could do was help her with whatever she needed.
Antonia had to deal with her best friend while also caring for the children who were struggling themselves. Would the love from Weston help Antonia.
April 14, 2026
Keeping Memories Alive
This book really touched me which surprised me in a way. You know from the beginning that there will be a life changing event, and it truly was that. Antonia had been best friends with Miriam their entire lives and had been by her side through a teenage pregnancy and motherhood and now at the ending of her life. Toni knew she would be there for Miriam’s children and that her life would drastically change as she accepted the role of mother for her best friend’s children.
While you know, as the reader, what will happen, the actual event brings tears. It was handled well by the author. ( I shouldn’t have been reading it in a restaurant!)
The story is told in first-person narratives by Antonia, Cutter (teenage son), and Weston(son’s coach and Toni’s love interest).
This book really touched me which surprised me in a way. You know from the beginning that there will be a life changing event, and it truly was that. Antonia had been best friends with Miriam their entire lives and had been by her side through a teenage pregnancy and motherhood and now at the ending of her life. Toni knew she would be there for Miriam’s children and that her life would drastically change as she accepted the role of mother for her best friend’s children.
While you know, as the reader, what will happen, the actual event brings tears. It was handled well by the author. ( I shouldn’t have been reading it in a restaurant!)
The story is told in first-person narratives by Antonia, Cutter (teenage son), and Weston(son’s coach and Toni’s love interest).
April 1, 2026
This was not my usual kind of read - I tend to avoid stories with death but I’m glad I gave it a shot.
There’s definitely plenty of sadness in this story with Miri’s loss but there’s also plenty of love and even some humour. The romance in this one came second for me to the friendship between Antonia and Miri and also the beautiful relationship Antonia had with Miri’s children. Weston definitely gives golden retriever vibes in the best way.
Make sure you have your tissues handy.
T/W - death of character
I received an arc of this book
There’s definitely plenty of sadness in this story with Miri’s loss but there’s also plenty of love and even some humour. The romance in this one came second for me to the friendship between Antonia and Miri and also the beautiful relationship Antonia had with Miri’s children. Weston definitely gives golden retriever vibes in the best way.
Make sure you have your tissues handy.
T/W - death of character
I received an arc of this book
April 5, 2026
Maybe It’s Fate
This is an amazing story about two friends who have been there for each other for years. When a situation arises, she knows her parents are not going to be happy about it. As years go by, these two are always there for each other, sometimes things change, lives change and life events change. This story will continue to be life altering and show how truly special people can be in each other’s lives, and mean to each other. This is an emotionally challenging time, and brings out many feelings and decisions coming into play. This story is a beautiful heartfelt story.
This is an amazing story about two friends who have been there for each other for years. When a situation arises, she knows her parents are not going to be happy about it. As years go by, these two are always there for each other, sometimes things change, lives change and life events change. This story will continue to be life altering and show how truly special people can be in each other’s lives, and mean to each other. This is an emotionally challenging time, and brings out many feelings and decisions coming into play. This story is a beautiful heartfelt story.
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