Star Promise

Wishes #5

by G.J. Walker-Smith

After three blissful years of living in Pipers Cove, Adam and Charli head back to the bright lights of New York. Taking on a position at a Manhattan gallery turns out to be Charli’s dream job, but just a few weeks after starting at his father’s firm, Adam realises that practising law is his worst nightmare. Biding his time is the plan. Charli has wanderlust in her soul and he’s hopeful that sooner or later, she’ll want to go home. Riding it out isn’t hard. They’re as close as they’ve ever been and every spare minute is spent hanging out with their precious little girl. Life is good – until it’s not. When fate throws them one nasty curveball after another, Charli’s confidence is shattered and her heart is broken. After weeks of trying to make sense of the grief she’s feeling, both realise she’s out of her depth. Getting out of Dodge is Charli’s preferred MO and she doesn’t disappoint, finally deciding that it’s time to leave New York. Returning to Pipers Cove is not the quick fix they were hoping for. Some things just can’t be mended, and the way she deals with that is going to change everything. Other books in the Wishes Series Saving Wishes - Book 1 (free) Second Hearts - Book 2 Sand Jewels - Book 2.5 Storm Shells - Book 3 Secret North - Book 4 Silver Dawn - Book 4.5

Genres: Romance, New Adult, Contemporary Romance, Young Adult, Fiction, Contemporary, Marriage

414 pages, Kindle Edition

First published December 9, 2014

About the author

Wife, mother, writer, wanderer.

Author of the YA novels, The Wishes Series.
Saving Wishes - iBooks Breakout Book Of The Year (AUS/NZ)

https://www.facebook.com/gjwalkersmith

Reviews

[Brenda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Charli and Adam adored their precocious little four year old daughter Bridget – settled back into New York after three years of living in Pipers Cove, Tasmania, the rush and bustle of the city was certainly a different lifestyle than they had been used to. But Charli loved her job in the downtown Manhattan art gallery; a dream job with her love of photography, she was able to use her talents well. She knew Adam was unhappy though – working at his father’s law firm was tedious and boring. Even though he was fully qualified in law, he knew it wasn’t what he wanted to do. The constant need to do what his father wanted of him was wearing him down…

Attempting to interest Bridget in ballet lessons was proving not to be as easy as her parents thought. Her love of all things fancy; of magic and especially her boots – could a four year old be expelled from ballet class? Charli wasn’t sure; she hoped not to find out. But with a suddenness that was totally unexpected, Charli and Adam’s life went off course. Charli was shattered; her confidence was at an all-time low – how would she cope with what was being thrown at her? The bitterness and hatred were hurtful; the erosion of the happiness she had known was filled with grief. Was it time to head back to Piper’s Cove? And would that help to heal?

Star Promise is the fifth in the Wishes Series and it’s a wonderful story. The continuation of Charli and Adam’s lives, the delightful and quirky nature of Bridget (who caused me to laugh out loud on many occasions!) plus the trials and tribulations of their time in NYC; all blended to make another great addition to the series. Aussie author G.J. Walker-Smith has a great talent, and I’m very much looking forward to the next instalment. Highly recommended.

[Bookphenomena (Micky) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Like many, I have been reading, following and loving the lives of the Blakes and Dècaries for a few years now. This culmination of the wishes series fulfilled and satisfied me completely. The thought of the end of this series is bittersweet; I don't think I'd ever be ready for it to end.

Charli, Adam and Bridget are in New York running the gauntlet on family life and demanding jobs. Bridget is a joy to read about, in one sense a handful but the one-liners she comes out with are funny and brilliant. The dynamic of the Dècarie family is real, flawed, messy and beautiful. Adam is a man who loves his family, worries about his responsibilities but boy wonder is definitely still in there.

"Hello, love of my life.............hello, life of my love."

Charli has also matured but the the girl I've known from previous wishes stories remains, only she now speaks with the confidence of a secure woman.

"I am his heart," I blurted, cutting him off. "And Bridget is his soul. He's not yours anymore."

The main storyline of this book takes a direction I never would have imagined and fans of the series will be gripped by the turn of events.

GJ Walker-Smith's writing is steadfast in quality, wit and emotion. I feel the characters, their hurt and love. I find her writing poetic in her uncanny ability to project the ebb and flow of life as though you are a family member observing the Dècaries' lives. I'm so sad to leave this series behind, but I am a re-reader of the greats. This is surely one.

[Sophia Holt · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was extremely lucky to receive an arc for this book, and i look forward to everyone else being able to read it when it publishes! cause people it is worth the wait!

This is the final story (i am hoping that GJ will shock us and write more about Adam and Charli) for Adam and Charli and i am truly sad that it is.
I don't like spoilers so i am going to try and not give anything away...

It takes place in New York - Adam and Charli had decided to move there at the end of Storm Shells, when Charli was offered a job in a gallery.
The book is set around Secret North and Silver Dawn ~ BUT it doesn't repeat anything already written in either books. Its all Adam and Charli and Bridget <---- i so want a kid this kid!

You are going to feel for Charli in this book, a lot of emotions. The relationship between Jean-Luc and Charli also plays out in this book, and you are not going to want to miss it (did that sentence make any sense at all?)

The book has been so well written, and the storyline had me captivated from beginning to end. I even had a bit of a cry towards the end. You are not going to expect the events in this book, but you are going to love it, just like i did.

Job well done GJ Walker-Smith another book you smashed right out of the ball park! and i am so honoured that i got to read this one. I am also so sad that its their last one. I love Adam and Charli. You have written their story so well and you should be so proud of your achievement in this book. If i could give you more stars then the 5 you would be getting more, it deserves more.

OH AND ITS MY FAVOURITE BOOK IN THE SERIES...IT HAS TAKEN OVER STORM SHELLS

['genevieve Laughton-bath · Rating 5 out of 5]

I just finished this book and I must say I loved it. The whole series I truly loved! The ending did leave me feeling a bit empty though, but that normally happens when I read a book that is so lovely. I wish G J Walker-Smith could continue writing these books about Charlie and Adam for ever. But unfortunately that is not possible. It was the best possible end though to the series. I do wish it didn't leave so many things open though. Maybe it will lead to more stories about the other characters. I love G J Walker-Smith she would have to be my favourite author and I would read anything she writes! These books helped me get through a pretty hard time and gave me some where to escape to. I recommend them to everyone! Thank you G J Walker-Smith for writing such an amazing story!

[J.S. · Rating 5 out of 5]

*Sigh* So that's it. The end.



Hate saying goodbye!

I love these characters so much, I just love them. I've enjoyed every adventure they've took me on and, though it's hard to let em go, this denouement ends their story beautifully.

Perfect blend of drama and whimsy.

Crazy lovely :)

[Jess (jessreads1985) · Rating 5 out of 5]

Big thanks to Gemma for an ARC copy for review.



The picture above pretty much describes how I am feeling at the moment after reading this book. Whenever I read a new novel from G.J. I am always excited, constantly amazed and I'm left with a permanent smile of happiness on my face. Basically, I feel like I'm a kid at Disney World. G.J. Walker-Smith, you have mighty superpowers as far as I'm concerned.

I was so thrilled when G.J. announced that Charli and Adam were getting another story. This is my favorite couple after all. Star Promise is set at the same time frame as Secret North, but now with Adam and Charli's perspectives. Their continuing journey is still filled with plenty of laughter, family, and love. But along the way there are shocking discoveries made, painful truths revealed, and powerful life lessons that are learned. I can definitely say that the questions that have been on my mind since book four have been answered.

Charli Decarie has grown into such a wonderful young woman. She is loving wife and mother, and yet she still has the same vibrant spirit that I have always admired. Charli really gets tested emotionally in this book, and this were the tears came in for me. But never doubt Charli, for she is a Blake at heart and truly resilient.

Adam Decarie stole my heart again this time. I didn't think it was possible to fall harder than I already had, but I did. I am so proud of the man he has become. What really makes my heart melt is the endless love and devotion that he has for his girls, it's just wonderful beyond words.

Of course I can't forget Bridget "Little Bridge". That little girl lights up a room with her presence. She is as cute as a button, but also very wise for her young age. But my favorite thing to see is how Bridget lives in her own little world just like her mother and and really adore that. I wish I could live like that most of the time.

With a teacup in each hand, Bridget threw out her arms. "Because the world is lovely," she announced theatrically. "Look at it." ~ Bridget

I loved seeing Alex, Fiona and yes even Jean-Luc again. There is more to this man behind his elegant suits. I enjoyed his conversations with Charli, and trust me he will surprise you.

I just loved everything about Star Promise. The ending was absolutely perfect for this family, and like always it shows that magic really is everywhere.

"And how do you know?" asked Val, leaning over the counter to look at her.
Bridget cupped her hands to her mouth. "Magic," she whispered.
The uppity postmistress might not have been sold on her left-of-centre explanation, but I was.
Absolutely nothing is impossible to willing hearts. ~ Charli and Bridget


I seriously cannot thank Gemma enough for writing this little gem.

Jess Time To Read

[h o l l i s · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wow. I'm a little shocked to realize it's all over.

I've been in a Wishes state of mind for the past few days and I have a feeling it's going to take me twice as long to shake it off. Up until SILVER DAWN I had previously described this series as "light fun and sweet" and it seems as though that story broke the mold because STAR PROMISE, though maintaining the standard of being fun and sweet, had just as much angst and turmoil and heartbreak as the one prior to it. But where SILVER DAWN kept me crying, STAR PROMISE kept me angry and unhappy and uncomfortable; these might seem the opposite of positive things but the fact that I felt them so strongly is a huge mark in Walker-Smith's favour. This book made me feel more than just the good stuff. I was right along for the ride for all the bad, too.

STAR PROMISE unfolds around, and during, the same events of SECRET NORTH and it was actually really fascinating to see it all come together but from another perspective. It also shed light on a lot of the behind the scenes moments that weren't explained or expanded on. It was the second half that made a whole.

It also marked the change of many things for Charli & Adam. Not only in the case of a role reversal, the former now happier with her New York life than Adam is (quite unlike the case in book two), but we also got to see Adam step up to the plate in a big way as life for Charli took an unexpected turn. Which finally brought me over to his side. Happy, girls? I'm on Team Adam with you now. ; )

Which isn't to say it was all terrible and awful. There was just as much tenderness, laughs, bewilderment and endearing moments as we've all come to expect. This was a classic case of Blake-Décarie adventure but with more depth, more heart, and all the magic.

I loved how Walker-Smith wrapped up these characters without altering who they are at their core (which goes not only for our main couple but all those around them, too). Not everyone in the Wishes world believed in magic but they were all given the chance to see hints, and sometimes outright miracles, to open their eyes to something more. And that's what these books do, too. They remind us of the hope of finding a dream job, of the joy in stepping back and taking stock, in the wish for or the delight of true love, of even that special feeling of starting the next chapter. Each one is a bit of magic.

We readers are the Adam to Walker-Smith's Charli. And like him, our lives will never be the same now that we've found her.

[Portia · Rating 5 out of 5]

UGH, can it be December already so this book can release?! I need more Charlie and Adam, and Lala Land.

22 DEC 14

I adore Charli and Adam together, it's so beautiful seeing how far they've come from the beginning. Bridget Decarie is something else. I love her, she's probably my favorite character out of all of them. I enjoy La La Land and this book was just perfect.

I need more.

[Kit Meads · Rating 5 out of 5]

AMAZING. I started reading it as soon as it came out early this morning (awesomely it came out earlier in NZ than everywhere else), and I didn't stop till finished. This book made me want to laugh, cry, and gave me countless emotions - often numerous at once. The storyline is fantastic, with several plot twists I did not see coming. Interestingly there was not the same fiery revenge I associate with Charli (usually to do with hands - see Jasmine and the Beautifuls in Saving Wishes, and Parker's in Second Hearts), but this book taught me some great lessons about how sometimes karma removes the need for vengeance.

I loved the relationship between the characters (especially Jean-Luc and Charli, as both are so fiery). Bridget always had lines that made me burst out laughing, and Charli had such a wonderful character, transforming from serious and deep to funny and fiery. I love Charli and Adam's relationship, and the fact that Bridget fits in so well with their family.

Charli's facts and stories always intruiging and amuse me, occurring at the most fitting times. I now know never to have red and white roses together! I love the fact that *spoiler* she converted both Jean-Luc and Ryan to the La La Land style of thinking, even though I had already known about the latter from Secret North.

This book is my new favourite of the series, and although it takes place around the same time as Secret North, it doesn't regurgitate plot or dialogue, keeping the story interesting. I applaud Gemma for an incredible series that I have loved from the minute I found Saving Wishes for free on iBooks. Seven books on she is still creating heart-warming and believable stories that I utterly adore (although they stop me from getting work done). I really hope that we do one day see more of Charli, Adam, Bridget, and the whole gang in the future. DEFINITELY recommend this book. As Bridget would say, it was "really lovely".

[Monique · Rating 5 out of 5]

There is nothing better than escaping to anything and everything Décarie / Blake related and this book is exceptional. I am on a mission to complete a full re read of this amazing series before the next book is due later this year. Even though Ryan is special to me, it’s Adam and Charli that make my heart shine.

This edition, Adam is a corporate lawyer working for his father and Charli is living her dream in an art gallery. Unfortunately for Adam, he hates his job and is waiting for his wanderlust wife to make the decision to move on. With a chance meeting and clipped fairy wings, Charli is battered and bruised and now ready to head back to Piper’s Cover and see her father Alex, her baby brother Jack and the Parisienne Princess.

This was suppose to be the finale of Adam and Charli’s story but they have a little more to tell us with a new book coming out soon, which I’m ecstatic about. Adam is undoubtably Boy Wonder the way he cherishes Charli and Bridget and I adore him for it. He has come a long way from the first time we met him and add his French accent, you have the perfect book boyfriend. Charli was my kind of gal, she was sassy but more so incredible loyal to those she treasures. The way they allowed Bridget to be free but also keeping her stable was commendable. She was the most precious little girl that will crack you up with her antics and words. I truly love this series and everything this author writes.

[Aimie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Star Promise is the beautiful end to the most magical series I've ever read. GJ wraps everything up with nice little bow. I adore GJ Walker-Smith and her characters. I've followed Charli through her journey from the very beginning and I have loved every minute of it. I'm sad to see it end and secretly hope we'll see more from the Wishes world in the future... Psst, GJ, Alex is my favourite. ;)
Jean-Luc has been one of the hardest characters to like, always berating Charli for her tales and calling them none sense. He finally won me over in this story, which is good because I didn't want to hate him forever.
Adam had won me over in Secret North, because I was never a fan of him either, his early Jerk tendencies had stuck with me. It was so nice to see him win me over again in Star Promise. Star promise runs during the timeframe of Secret North. It was great to finally see what was bothering Charli and Adam through that time.
I've loved this series immensely and look forward to whatever GJ decides to write next.

[Melinda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Star Promise by GJ Walker-Smith

The Perfect Dènouement

This is the last book in GJ Walker-Smiths Wishes series and they should all be read in order. While I have been waiting with baited breath for months to see how GJ would finish this series, I truly wasn't ready to say goodbye. This book was beautifully written. It included a perfect blend of humor as well as many touching moments. I love that GJ tied up everything with a perfect bow and I was so happy to see that Adam, Charli and of course, Bridget end up exactly where and how they're supposed to. GJ Walker-Smith uses words in the same way that an artist uses a paintbrush and boy, did she paint an amazing picture with Star Promise. She has wrapped up this story beautifully and it is my new favorite. I do not hesitate to recommend this series as they are all outstanding 5* reads.

[Brittainy · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you look up breathtaking it's definition says thrillingly beautiful, remarkable, astonishing, and exciting. These words couldn't describe star promise any better as long as I can add hilarious to the list. There were parts I laughed until I cried, smiled until my cheeks hurt, and took deeps breaths because I didn't want it all to end. After finishing (at 1am) I couldn't sleep. I didn't want to get off of the star promise cloud. Thank you GJ Walker-Smith for knowing all the lovely words, thank you for writing my most favorite book and my most favorite series, and most of all thank you for being you.

[Tiffani · Rating 5 out of 5]

Loved this book!!! I laughed out loud, I cried, I got super angry, I smiled and I became totally engrossed in reading this book. This author has the absolute worst villains and the most unique characters. The book had no slow parts to warrant setting it down for a break so be ready to read cover to cover in one day if you pick it up!

[K · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic instalment. This one sees Charli, Adam and Bridget living in New York- and not being all that happy there. I love Adam and Charli's relationship and Bridget is the most hilarious, gorgeous little four year old. This lady knows how to write kids just as well as anyone else in her novels. 5 stars (of course).

[Delilah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Simply wonderful. What a fantastic read, full of happiness, heartbreak, love and "lovely lovely" moments. GJ Walker is a brilliant writer. I forgot how I discovered her, but I am so glad I did. Reading her books makes my heart happy, and if you're a fan you'll understand what I mean by that!

[Libellus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wishes #5 Star Promise by G.J. Walker-Smith
December 2016
4/5

Well this is the Charli and Adam that I love! I am so happy that this series got back on track after my disappointment with Secret North. This was probably one of my favourite books in the series so far. I loved seeing a more mature and adult Charli. I do not know much about motherhood but I do know that it must be a struggle for someone who didn’t have a mother. Watching her build her own path was really inspiring as a girl. I’m also very grateful that this immature relationship between Adam and Charli grew into something more sensical. There were still some moments where I wanted to strangle both characters and bring them to their senses, but overall there was no teenage drama, they learned to communicate. The main plot element of Star Promise was definitely entertaining, however it took too long to resolve. There was too many back and forth’s between the two concerned characters and it was getting repetitive towards the end. The resolution of that conflict also angered me. As a fierce defender of peaceful conflict resolution, vengeance is in no way acceptable. The best “vengeance” is making your enemy see you happy, there is no need to push it further and ruin his else’s life. Not a great lesson to teach your kid. The side plots were so good though. I love everything Adam touches and he finally dealt with some pretty rough stuff which was so satisfying and made my little heart so happy. Seriously, Adam and Charli are the ultimate ship, I look forward to seeing them in Stone Roses (the 7th book in the series, comes out June 1st 2017). Meanwhile, I already bought Shiloh, the 6th book in the Wishes series.

Further recommendations:
The Storied Life of A.J. Fikry by Gabrielle Zevin
To all the Boys I’ve loved before #1 To all the Boys I’ve loved before by Jenny Han
Shatter Me #1 Shatter Me by Tahereh Mafi

[Rosalie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have absolutely loved this series and am completely devastated that this is the last book of Adam and Charli's story. I have spent hours giggling, hours sobbing and hours enthralled by the magical world of the fairies. I fell upon the first book by chance and have loved every minute of it. The writing is effortless, the characters fantastic and the story heartwarming.

Although they say that all good things must come to an end, I will forever hold out hope that that is not, in fact, the case. I can imagine a future that includes a world filled with Bridget and her wondrous imagination and perhaps a bit of romance with a mischievous Lost Boy.

Thank you G.J. Walker-Smith for sharing this wonderful world with me and allowing me a glimpse into La La Land, a truly magical place full of fairies, Lost Boys, Secret North and Sea Dogs. The honour is well and truly mine.

[Kira · Rating 4 out of 5]

Adam, Charli and their daughter Bridget have returned to New York. Charli has found her dream job in an Art Gallery and Adam returns to his father’s law firm where he discovers that the career he thought he wanted isn’t so great after all. A chance encounter with a woman at Bridget’s new ballet school sends their world into a tail spin. Charli’s confidence is shattered and after a lot of soul searching, they decide to return to Piper’s Cove to find their bliss.

This young adult series will make laugh you and fall in love. I was sad to be saying goodbye to it. G.J. Walker-Smith has done a remarkable job in bringing her characters to life. Adam and Charli still have their spark and their daughter Bridget is by far the stand out character. She steals almost every scene she is in. Star Promise ties in very well to the third book in the series which was about Adam’s brother Ryan.

[Whitney Mcgregor (A Literary Perusal) · Rating 5 out of 5]

A beautiful way to wrap up Charli and Adam's story! This book really brings everyone full circle as Charli and Adam learn what is truly most important to them... family.

The whole Decarie family is present with their quirks that make this story fun. Adam has finally grown into a book boyfriend/husband I can love without wanting to kill him a few times per book. And Charli is as magical as ever.

Bridget steals every scene she is in and the author's dialogue is fantastic, from both the adult and child characters. This series has touched my heart as I have followed the journey to adulthood for these characters.

Not 100% sure if this is totally the end for LaLa Land, but if it is, I can rest easy. Definitely 5 stars!

[Becky Cox · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have been in love with these characters since Saving Wishes. GJ does an amazing job of bringing her characters to life. Star Promise sadly is the last in this series but did a wonderful job of answering so many questions and resolving relationships. Charli and Jean-Luc's connection being a huge one. Bridget, Bridget, Bridget. Can't say enough about that young lady. She is the best of Charli and Adam. Her wit and charm are never ending. The journey that we have made in this series had been heartbreaking at times but a wonderful, life altering, experience. I have learned to look at the world differently from Charli and now Bridget and will forever be better for the experience. I am his heart...and Bridget is his soul.

[Pamela Lilley · Rating 5 out of 5]

Each book has it's own individual stamp and Star Promise is no exception. A wonderful story, that left me in suspense in places. Love Adam and Charli, love how they have grown in to their relationship as the series progresses. This book runs alongside Secret North, this meant I could still have my Ryan fix! Five stars through and through. Perfect. Thank you GJ Walker-Smith. Love your writing and love your sense of humour x

[Abigail · Rating 5 out of 5]

This series honestly captivated me from the first page of Saving Wishes to the last page of Star Promise. To finally have a book where the main characters don't just meet, fall in love, and live happily ever after was amazing! They actually faced real life problems. I could read another 2,000+ pages of their lives.

[Jordan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gemma is an extremely talented author, the love and magic falls out of the pages and into your heart. I adored this series and I hope beyond hope that Gemma will write more. I highly recommend this series to anyone who loves a little bit of magic.

[Stella Kiel · Rating 5 out of 5]

I feel like I have just lost my best friends :-( Does this have to end!

Seriously Star Promise was a good read, filling in the gaps was nice.

If you haven't read this or any other books in the Wishes Series, please so so now, as you will not be disappointed. Mwah

[Justine]

I can't believe it's the end... :'(

[Lea Dimovski · Rating 5 out of 5]

A 'lovely' read

Book 5 in the Wishes series is perhaps my favourite to date. Bridget steals the show. One of the best child characters I've ever read. Her precociousness, wit, and innocence had me believing she's an old soul who been here and done that a few times before.

This is a wonderful series with every book being a value add, even with the revisiting of events from different POVs.

The character dialogue is funny, razor sharp and really appeals to this Aussie.

I found myself smiling through out this read. A feel a genuine warmth in my soul when reading this series.

[Denise Hoover · Rating 5 out of 5]

Denouement

What a perfect way to end the story of Charli and Adam. They’ve come such a long way since the beginning of this series. I loved seeing them grow even more. It was also nice having read Ryan’s story first so when I read through those parts in this book, I knew what Adam and Charli were truly going through and why they reacted the way they did.

I felt there were many loose ends tied up in this book; they didn’t feel rushed either which was such a nice feeling. Very highly recommend this series! You’ll grow to love the whole gang!

[Sandra Del Rio · Rating 3 out of 5]

It was sappy and overly sweet? Quite boring tbh, but liked it enough to finish the entire thing. I wasn't too engaged through the story, but I was so fond of the characters- mostly because I fell in love with their endearing personalities when I was transitioning into middle school, so I'm a little attached. it was fiiiiine but nothing more than that. Unrealistically cute. Will I continue to read the books in this series? Probably. Why? Because, again, I'm attached, and I enjoy reading about men that will never exist in my life.

Also, the synopsis of this book was so exaggerated? I understand that most descriptions are meant to hook the reader before they turn to the first page, but GEEZ was it so inaccurate.

[Isabel Gutierrez-Merrill · Rating 4 out of 5]

G. J. Walker has created a storyline and characters that you can’t help but love or love to hate. Bridget is adorable as always, the banter between Adam and Charli as endearing as ever. And the villain (Charli’s long lost mother) in this story: the worst. In some ways I really wanted there to be redemption for Olivia, but by the end I was just ready to stop hearing about her and her terrible antics. The dynamic between Olivia and Charli juxtaposes Adam’s relationship with his own father Jean Luc in a way that resolves their conflict beautifully. I love that in all these books the characters are humanized in a way that makes the more unbelievable parts of the story still feel relatable.