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The Wonder of You
Not yet published
Expected 15 Apr 26From the bestselling author of Always You and Me comes a heart-stirring story of connection, courage and the kind of love that lasts forever.
One summer storm. One split second. Two lives changed forever.
Ellie Harker doesn't believe in fate, only hard work and keeping her heart safe. Rhys Davies used to believe in love, until heartbreak left him focused on his little girl. When lightning strikes them both, an unexplainable connection sparks between two strangers.
The Wonder of You is a tender, emotional story of second chances, unexpected connections and the kind of love that arrives when you least expect it.
One summer storm. One split second. Two lives changed forever.
Ellie Harker doesn't believe in fate, only hard work and keeping her heart safe. Rhys Davies used to believe in love, until heartbreak left him focused on his little girl. When lightning strikes them both, an unexplainable connection sparks between two strangers.
The Wonder of You is a tender, emotional story of second chances, unexpected connections and the kind of love that arrives when you least expect it.
406 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication April 15, 2026
36 people want to read
About the author
Dani Atkins
25 books1,183 followersDani was born and brought up in Cockfosters- a small London suburb at the end of the Piccadilly Tube Line.
This served her well for commuting into the city, where from the age of 18 she worked in a succession of secretarial positions in companies as diverse as a BMW car dealership to the BBC. Dani spent her two hour commute avidly reading and dreamed that one day she would become an author herself.
When her two children grew up and left home, Dani set about turning this dream into reality and devoted her time to writing. She now lives in a rural Hertfordshire cottage with her husband, a soppy border collie dog and a haughty Siamese cat.
Her first novels FRACTURED (called THEN AND ALWAYS in the US) and THE STORY OF US published in 2014. In January 2016, her third novel, OUR SONG was published.
This served her well for commuting into the city, where from the age of 18 she worked in a succession of secretarial positions in companies as diverse as a BMW car dealership to the BBC. Dani spent her two hour commute avidly reading and dreamed that one day she would become an author herself.
When her two children grew up and left home, Dani set about turning this dream into reality and devoted her time to writing. She now lives in a rural Hertfordshire cottage with her husband, a soppy border collie dog and a haughty Siamese cat.
Her first novels FRACTURED (called THEN AND ALWAYS in the US) and THE STORY OF US published in 2014. In January 2016, her third novel, OUR SONG was published.
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Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews
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February 17, 2026Thank you NetGalley for this ARC.
I now understand why so many people are enjoying this book. It's a simple book to get lost in, and I found that I was reading it fast and effortlessly. It is a good option if you want something interesting that isn't too heavy or complicated because the prose is approachable and flows nicely.
Unquestionably, the idea is appealing; two strangers who are hit by lightning and suffer unanticipated consequences is such a novel beginning. It raises questions right away, and I liked how that first mystery permeates the entire narrative. From the outset, there is a strong emotional undercurrent, particularly in the relationship between the two major characters. Romance lovers who love the enticing pull between characters will find their link to be compelling and fateful.
Nevertheless, even though I liked the trip overall, I wasn't as enchanted as I had planned. There are poignant moments and situations that are obviously meant to be powerful, but they didn't always hit me with their full force. I didn't feel as strongly connected to Ellie, even though I liked her and wanted the best for her. A number of the supporting characters gave the plot some interesting depth, although several of their interactions could have benefited from a little more development to feel completely developed.
Things moved along at a steady pace, perhaps a bit too quickly. Sometimes I wished some discussions or emotional beats had been given more breathing room, and there were a few time leaps and changes that felt a little sudden. For me, the story would have gone from being enjoyable to unforgettable if there had been a little more nuance in certain parts.
All things considered, this was a passionate, quick-paced romance with a compelling hook and powerful emotional themes of connection, fate, and introspection. I like reading it even though it didn't quite blow me away. Readers who want heartfelt love stories without a lot of flavour and don't mind a slightly simplified, fast-paced plot should read it, in my opinion.
I now understand why so many people are enjoying this book. It's a simple book to get lost in, and I found that I was reading it fast and effortlessly. It is a good option if you want something interesting that isn't too heavy or complicated because the prose is approachable and flows nicely.
Unquestionably, the idea is appealing; two strangers who are hit by lightning and suffer unanticipated consequences is such a novel beginning. It raises questions right away, and I liked how that first mystery permeates the entire narrative. From the outset, there is a strong emotional undercurrent, particularly in the relationship between the two major characters. Romance lovers who love the enticing pull between characters will find their link to be compelling and fateful.
Nevertheless, even though I liked the trip overall, I wasn't as enchanted as I had planned. There are poignant moments and situations that are obviously meant to be powerful, but they didn't always hit me with their full force. I didn't feel as strongly connected to Ellie, even though I liked her and wanted the best for her. A number of the supporting characters gave the plot some interesting depth, although several of their interactions could have benefited from a little more development to feel completely developed.
Things moved along at a steady pace, perhaps a bit too quickly. Sometimes I wished some discussions or emotional beats had been given more breathing room, and there were a few time leaps and changes that felt a little sudden. For me, the story would have gone from being enjoyable to unforgettable if there had been a little more nuance in certain parts.
All things considered, this was a passionate, quick-paced romance with a compelling hook and powerful emotional themes of connection, fate, and introspection. I like reading it even though it didn't quite blow me away. Readers who want heartfelt love stories without a lot of flavour and don't mind a slightly simplified, fast-paced plot should read it, in my opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley.
This book was such an easy, enjoyable read that I found myself flying through the pages without even realizing how much time had passed. The writing style is smooth and accessible, making it perfect for anyone who wants to dive into a story without feeling overwhelmed. It strikes that ideal balance of being engaging while still feeling effortless.
I was completely hooked from the very first chapter. The opening pulls you in immediately, setting the tone with just enough intrigue to make it impossible to stop. By the end of chapter one, I already felt invested in the characters and desperate to know what would happen next.
The FMC is incredibly likeable and easy to root for. She feels real—flawed, strong, vulnerable, and relatable all at once. Her reactions and decisions make sense within the story, and it’s easy to become emotionally attached to her journey. I found myself cheering her on, frustrated on her behalf, and fully immersed in her experiences.
One of the strongest aspects of this book is the sheer number of twists and turns. Just when I thought I had things figured out, the story shifted in a way that genuinely surprised me. The pacing keeps the momentum going, with each revelation raising the stakes even higher. It never feels predictable, which made the reading experience even more exciting.
Above all, this story is deeply emotional. It doesn’t just rely on plot twists for impact—it makes you feel. There are moments that tug at your heart, scenes that create real tension, and emotional beats that linger even after you’ve finished the final page. It’s the kind of book that stays with you.
Overall, this is a gripping, heartfelt read that combines compelling characters, shocking twists, and genuine emotion into a story that’s hard to put down. I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for an addictive and satisfying read.
This book was such an easy, enjoyable read that I found myself flying through the pages without even realizing how much time had passed. The writing style is smooth and accessible, making it perfect for anyone who wants to dive into a story without feeling overwhelmed. It strikes that ideal balance of being engaging while still feeling effortless.
I was completely hooked from the very first chapter. The opening pulls you in immediately, setting the tone with just enough intrigue to make it impossible to stop. By the end of chapter one, I already felt invested in the characters and desperate to know what would happen next.
The FMC is incredibly likeable and easy to root for. She feels real—flawed, strong, vulnerable, and relatable all at once. Her reactions and decisions make sense within the story, and it’s easy to become emotionally attached to her journey. I found myself cheering her on, frustrated on her behalf, and fully immersed in her experiences.
One of the strongest aspects of this book is the sheer number of twists and turns. Just when I thought I had things figured out, the story shifted in a way that genuinely surprised me. The pacing keeps the momentum going, with each revelation raising the stakes even higher. It never feels predictable, which made the reading experience even more exciting.
Above all, this story is deeply emotional. It doesn’t just rely on plot twists for impact—it makes you feel. There are moments that tug at your heart, scenes that create real tension, and emotional beats that linger even after you’ve finished the final page. It’s the kind of book that stays with you.
Overall, this is a gripping, heartfelt read that combines compelling characters, shocking twists, and genuine emotion into a story that’s hard to put down. I’d highly recommend it to anyone looking for an addictive and satisfying read.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Thanks to Amazon Publishing UK/Lakeshore Pubishing and NetGalley for providing this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
4/5
This is my first Dani Atkins book but if the others are like this one, I'm looking forward to reading them.
From the start, this book had me hooked. How can it not when you start with your main characters getting struck by lightning?
Ellie and Rhys had a clear and palpable connection from the start when they first meet after both being struck by lightning and when they struggle to part ways after leaving the hospital. The struggles they face with the baggage they both bring into the relationship are relatable and watching them work through the struggles made
It wasn't just the relationship between Ellie and Rhys that made this book a good read though. Ellie's relationships with Jackson, Mel, and Henry were all important parts of developing Ellie and each had their own bit of depth that helped create a well rounded story. The support characters were all incredibly important to Ellie's arc and growth.
The Wonder of You was well written overall but there were a couple of things that I didn't love. Some of the endings to chapters were jarring where I felt that the situation or conversation could have been expanded a bit and some of the time skips were a little disorienting. That is the only reason I took off a star on my rating. Beyond those two minor issues, I really enjoyed Dani Atkin's writing style and the flow of this book.
Overall, I really enjoyed this read and would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good romance without spice.
4/5
This is my first Dani Atkins book but if the others are like this one, I'm looking forward to reading them.
From the start, this book had me hooked. How can it not when you start with your main characters getting struck by lightning?
Ellie and Rhys had a clear and palpable connection from the start when they first meet after both being struck by lightning and when they struggle to part ways after leaving the hospital. The struggles they face with the baggage they both bring into the relationship are relatable and watching them work through the struggles made
It wasn't just the relationship between Ellie and Rhys that made this book a good read though. Ellie's relationships with Jackson, Mel, and Henry were all important parts of developing Ellie and each had their own bit of depth that helped create a well rounded story. The support characters were all incredibly important to Ellie's arc and growth.
The Wonder of You was well written overall but there were a couple of things that I didn't love. Some of the endings to chapters were jarring where I felt that the situation or conversation could have been expanded a bit and some of the time skips were a little disorienting. That is the only reason I took off a star on my rating. Beyond those two minor issues, I really enjoyed Dani Atkin's writing style and the flow of this book.
Overall, I really enjoyed this read and would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys a good romance without spice.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
The Wonder of You explores loss, love, second chances, and fate. After being struck by lightning, the two main characters meet and share an undeniable connection that continues to pull them together as their paths keep crossing.
What I loved most about the story was, in addition to the central romance, themes of forgiveness, betting on yourself, and letting go of past hurts so you can fully step into who you’re meant to be—personally and professionally, were weaved in. With a strong supporting cast and found family vibes, this book is ultimately about self-discovery, healing, and allowing love in… sometimes with a little help from fate.
The narrative beautifully captures how destiny often steps in just as we are getting in our own way. The Wonder of You is a testament to finding your true self in the wake of tragedy and choosing to live for today, tomorrow, and future you.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for an advanced reader copy of The Wonder of You (publishing April 15, 2026).
What I loved most about the story was, in addition to the central romance, themes of forgiveness, betting on yourself, and letting go of past hurts so you can fully step into who you’re meant to be—personally and professionally, were weaved in. With a strong supporting cast and found family vibes, this book is ultimately about self-discovery, healing, and allowing love in… sometimes with a little help from fate.
The narrative beautifully captures how destiny often steps in just as we are getting in our own way. The Wonder of You is a testament to finding your true self in the wake of tragedy and choosing to live for today, tomorrow, and future you.
Thank you to NetGalley and Lake Union Publishing for an advanced reader copy of The Wonder of You (publishing April 15, 2026).
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Goodness me. I fell in love with Dani’s writing when I read Always You and Me, so I was excited to see she had another book coming out! Her style keeps you on the edge of your seat, trying desperately to piece together what happened, and this book didn’t disappoint. Two strangers are struck by lightning and both experience strange side effects, while also feeling a dramatic pull toward each other. It’s a wild ride filled with mystery, love, and forgiveness and it won’t disappoint. It sounds like a strange premise but believe me, it's incredibly worth it.
Out this April 2026!!!
Out this April 2026!!!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Fate, love , friendship and regret ! How social media grips you into thinking you need to be there all the time. No spoilers but this will take Ellie through a journey of self awareness and reality checks to realise what’s important. Another fabulous page turner. Twists and unexpected turns when you least expect it. Tissues at the ready !Be prepared not to be able to put it down !
February 18, 2026
Thank you to netgalley and the author for an advanced copy of this book. This was my first book from this author and I enjoyed it but it wasn't perfect. At times the story felt repetitive and drawn out. But I did enjoy the characters and themes in the book. A few things were predictable but overall a good book!
Displaying 1 - 7 of 7 reviews