Until April

Coastal Hearts

by Janet W. Ferguson

Michael Galloway has always believed freedom means living life on his own terms. His career is dedicated to saving the environment and teaching others the importance of taking care of the earth, rivers, and oceans. He’s building a life with no room for complications. Especially in his love life.
Then tragedy turns April Yancy’s world upside down.
After her husband’s death, April discovers he’d been hiding devastating secrets, leaving her buried in debt and struggling to protect her children’s future. The last person she expects to come to her rescue is Michael—the man who shattered her heart years ago.
Michael has few regrets, but hurting April back in grad school still haunts him. When her situation grows desperate, he devises a risky plan to help her rebuild her life…even if it means jeopardizing his carefully guarded independence.
Accepting Michael’s shocking offer could cost April more than her pride. His resistance to her faith clashes with the convictions she holds dear, and trusting him again feels impossible. Yet as doors keep opening and her prayers keep nudging her toward him, April begins to wonder if God is offering her a second chance at more than survival.

An emotional second-chance love story of forgiveness, redemption, and unexpected faith.

345 pages, Kindle Edition

First published June 1, 2026

About the author

Janet W. Ferguson is a Christy Award finalist and the winner of the 2020 FHL Readers Choice Award. An avid reader and former librarian, she turned her love of story into writing contemporary faith-filled novels with realistic characters who feel like best friends. You’ll laugh and cry as the quirky heroes and heroines chase their happily ever after.

Janet and her husband live in Mississippi where they say y’all a lot, and she forces him to visit the beach as often as possible. They have two grown children, one really smart dog, and a cat that allows them to share the space.

​
She loves to hear from readers! You can connect with her on Facebook, Twitter, GoodReads, or subscribe to her newsletter on https://www.janetfergusonauthor.com/ for exclusive book news and giveaways.
​
She also contributes at Inspy Romance once a month. Check out the authors and prizes!

Reviews

[theliterateleprechaun · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved my visit to Alabama!

This second-chance romance was my first introduction to this author and I was impressed. April Yancy reminded me a lot of my elderly auntie who always says, “Live for today and be grateful.” April knows about life being short and tells readers that today is the only day we’re guaranteed with those we love and that we should make the most of it.

Things I loved:
💜Michael Galloway’s transformation! He went from being annoyed at judgmental morality to thinking he wasn’t April’s type to admitting that “the Designer you always talk about led me right to [April].”

💜April Yancy’s willingness to wait for God’s direction She experienced failure in making rash decisions and learned to wait on God.
“I’ll think and pray about it tonight and get back with you.”

💜“Anchor me, Lord.” ~ favourite line!

💜“True freedom is sharing everything I have.”
Michael used to think it was living life on his own terms, but now he realizes that it means nothing if it can’t be shared

💜“Home is where you are.”

There are six previous books in this series and I enjoyed this one so much that I’ll definitely go back and start this series from the beginning.

I was gifted this copy and was under no obligation to provide a review.

[Brittany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This powerful story really tugged on my emotions. Michael was such a firmly entrenched non believer who grew frustrated with those in the novel who would share about their faith. Yet, he cared about April and her son and wanted to help them.

I appreciated these emotionally scarred characters. They had a lot to work through both from the past and in the present. The believers in this story were unapologetic in those beliefs and their actions and care for April and others in need showed that they tried to be the hands and feet of Jesus.

Themes of grace and forgiveness were woven through the story along with some moments that were hard to explain away for Michael.

Until April is part of the Coastal Hearts series, but you do not have to have read the other books to enjoy this one.

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

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

[Sue Batt · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful book!!

The storyline seemed so real to me. I loved April and Michael’s story, but I would get so frustrated with Michael and his reaction to things that took place in the story. Janet’s writing was really down to earth with the feelings and reactions to what was going on in her story.
I highly recommend reading this book!! It is worth your time!!

[Beckie Burnham · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am going to be honest with you, I was not sure how I was going to like Until April, the latest offering in the Coastal Hearts series by Janet W. Ferguson. This women’s fiction/contemporary romance includes a marriage of convenience trope. I always associate that with historical fiction. You know, a time period where that’s acceptable. LOL! Everyone loves Love Comes Softly by Janette Oke, so why does the trope need to be confined to the days of the horse and buggy? Ferguson proved to me that it does not! In the novel, the two main characters have a lot of past history together. They are brought back together under tragic circumstances that Ferguson handles with a compassionate hand. When faced with raising a toddler and a newborn baby alone amidst staggering debt, April takes the extreme step towards security, even though she risks future emotional trauma. Unlike secondary characters in historical fiction, the reactions from friends is not necessarily that of approval, yet it is supportive. And that’s one of the strengths of this book — a community of believers coming alongside believers and nonbelievers alike in loving ways. There are a number of other themes in this book that make it more than just another romance. Male main character Michael is a scientist with a capital S! I loved how believers were firm, but respectful in their sharing of God’s love with him. And I loved how the author has God enter into Michael’s life in supernatural ways that turn his beliefs upside down. There are also themes of grief, forgiveness, family dysfunction, and mental illness explored. The author weaves all of these threads into a sweet story that made me regret turning the last page and leaving Dauphin Island. I hope another book in this series is in the works, because I can’t return soon enough!

Recommended.

Audience: Adults.

(I borrowed a copy of the novel through Kindle Unlimited. All opinions expressed are mine alone.)

[Emily · Rating 4 out of 5]

Until April by Janet W. Ferguson is the first story I have read written by her. This is part of the Coastal Hearts series, though I enjoyed it as a standalone.  

This story got right to the point and started by ripping my heart out. When tragedy strikes and there is an accident, Michael is the first one on the scene and helps rescue April’s son. Though it was too late for April’s husband, he dies, leaving April a widow caring for her young son. While wading through everything and trying to figure out what to do next, April also discovers that her husband left her with a mountain of debt. Facing losing everything, Michael steps in to help her. Throughout the story, we learn about their past and get to see their hearts.   

This second-chance romance was great with kisses only.

The faith elements and transformation were great. Michael was so against everything about God, but watching him come to Christ was such a great story.  

*I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. A positive review was not required. All views expressed are only my honest opinion. 

[Annette Johnson · Rating 5 out of 5]

I found a great new author, Janet W. Ferguson!

I found a great new author, Janet W. Ferguson! Her book Until April: A Coastal Heart Novel, was truly inspiring. I live in Bayou La Batre, Alabama near Dauphin Island, the scene of the love story. As the story unfolded, I could picture every scene vividly. The storyline and characters were well developed and the narrative included life changing experiences that were heart rending at times, but so inspirational. I am looking forward to reading more books written by Janet in the future.

[Diana Acord · Rating 5 out of 5]

Forgiveness and Grace

Excellent book in the series. The reader will dislike Michael throughout most of the book. April faces the death of her husband and debt she was unaware of. Her son Jack is the cutest and happiest little boy. I enjoyed the supporting cast of characters as well as the descriptions of the ocean.

[Tressie Pace · Rating 5 out of 5]

Once again Janet’s book was amazing. It’s such a beautiful and inspiring read. Like all of Janet’s books they make you feel joy, happiness and tell such a beautiful message of God.

[Beth Westcott · Rating 4 out of 5]

When April Yancey's husband dies in a jet-ski accident, her young son is rescued by marine educator Michael Galloway. April's husband has left her with debt and no health insurance. She is also pregnant. April and Michael have a past relationship, and now Michael steps in to offer her security in the form of a marriage of convenience, which April accepts. A contemporary romance with an unusual twist.

[Narelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

I enjoyed reading Until April, a contemporary romance with women’s fiction themes in Janet W. Ferguson’s Coastal Hearts series set on Dauphin Island, Alabama. Michael is a marine educator who wants the freedom to live his life without being shackled by family and other responsibilities. He’s carrying emotional baggage from his childhood experiences managing his mother’s mental health condition that’s an ongoing concern for their family.

April is dealing with a heartbreaking situation and too many financial problems. Her dysfunctional extended family won’t help her or her adorable three-year-old son. It’s April’s church family who step in and provide support, comfort and guidance as she relies on her faith and navigates tricky situations with limited options.

April was estranged from Michael, her college friend, until an unusual set of circumstances draws them back into each other’s lives. Their sweet romance is complicated and they’re forced to deal with issues from the past and confront uncomfortable truths.

Michael is a skeptic who’s surrounded by believers who challenge him to consider faith matters. Multiple characters are struggling with grief and loss. Redemption and forgiveness themes are explored in the story.

I loved experiencing the coastal environment and marine life with the characters. I recommend Until April to contemporary romance readers who like second chances and single parent romances with a twist on the friends-to-more trope, family drama, women’s fiction themes, grief and loss, supportive small town church communities, and strong faith elements in the story.

Many thanks to the author for the advanced reader copy.

[Cathy R Morgan · Rating 5 out of 5]

Michael has always regretted his treatment of April years before, though without having changed the desire for independence that led to it. But when her husband and son are involved in a jetski accident and Michael saves her son but is unable to save her husband, he's thrown in her way again after having avoided her for years. When Robert's death turns out to be just the start of an avalanche of problems, Michael feels he has to try to help April pick up the pieces, if she'll forgive him enough to let him. But how far will he go to help? And can they build anything permanent on so shaky a foundation?

A great read that held my attention from the very start and had me rooting for them both through all their difficulties. April had so much going on to struggle with, and I loved the way everyone around them came together to support her - even when they didn't necessarily agree with her decisions. Michael's initial attitude toward God is a major stumbling block to things working out long-term, and the way April and others brought God into their conversations could have backfired badly, but it was good to see them having the courage of their convictions rather than the too-common (I'm certainly guilty) 'letting things go' to avoid antagonising others. Jack is a great character, and it's lovely to see him ending up with such a great dad. All in all, a great read - highly recommended.

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

[Judy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Until April by Janet W. Ferguson
A Coastal Hearts Novel
Michael Galloway, who was introduced in the previous book, Holding Onto Hope, is an unbeliever. He’s been selfish and living for himself. Until the day he was out jet skiing with his brother, Clay, an accident happened right in front of them. Jet skis collided. A young boy in the water. A young boy whose father had once been his best friend and whose mother had been someone Michael had turned his back on. That day changed everything.
April Yancy wasn’t feeling well, so Robert had taken their three-year-old son, Jack, jet skiing. A man she’d been avoiding, even though they both lived on the very small Dauphin Island, was suddenly there carrying her little boy after she’d heard the crash on the water. Her whole life changed that day. She was so focused on going with Jack to the hospital that she had just assumed Robert was all right and would be there soon.
As usual, Janet has written an emotion-packed story that I couldn’t put down. Jack is a big part of the story and adds a lot to it in his childish ways. It’s hard to say too much without a spoiler, so I’ll just say it’s an awesome story, and if you cry easily… tissue alert.
https://justjudysjumbles.blogspot.com...

[Vicky Sluiter · Rating 4 out of 5]

Accepting Michael’s shocking offer could cost April more than her pride. His resistance to her faith clashes with the convictions she holds dear, and trusting him again feels impossible. Yet as doors keep opening and her prayers keep nudging her toward him, April begins to wonder if God is offering her a second chance at more than survival.

An emotional second-chance love story of forgiveness, redemption, and unexpected faith.

If you enjoy second chances, with characters who grow in the area of forgiveness, then you’ll enjoy Until April. Author Janet Ferguson did a really good job with this subject.

Marriage of convenience is my favorite trope, so I was drawn to this story. But the characters, who are so well written, kept me reading. April continues to discover heart breaking truths about her deceased husband. Michael not only rescues April’s son, but steps up in a way that’s unexpected. Yet I kept thinking about them being unequally yoked, spiritually. Would God approve? I don’t know, but keep reading to see what happens.

If you enjoy women’s Christian contemporary romance with a growing faith, you’ll enjoy Until April.

I received a complimentary copy of this book but was not required to leave a review. All thoughts are my own.

[Wren · Rating 4 out of 5]

What a lovely, meaningful book. I'd forgotten until I began to read it that tragedy marks its first pages. Ferguson walks her characters through an accident's immediate aftermath, the pains of discovery, and the moment when co-protagonist April realizes not only that she is all alone (apart from her beloved 3-year-old son Jack) but that she is virtually penniless.

Michael Galloway, an old flame (and THAT ended badly) of April's, is first on the scene and rescue. He has never stopped caring for April and is quickly captivated by Jack. When they realize that April is in some rather desperate conditions, Michael makes an offer that surprises even him.

Janet W. Ferguson's beautifully paced novel of reunion between a couple who once loved each other, however imperfectly it might have been, builds steadily and believably through their reconnection. Both revelation and understanding (well, and some misunderstandings) drive Michael's and April's time together. How will it end? You'll have to read it to find out! I highly recommend this wonderfully peopled, lovely novel.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book, which I received from the author. All views expressed are only my honest opinion.

[Helen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Until April is a standalone story that is part of A Coastal Hearts Novel series by Janet W. Ferguson. This is a contemporary Christian story that is so nicely written it is easy to imagine what is happening and the surroundings. I enjoyed how the author wrote such a moving story that focuses on forgiveness and faith. April, her husband and they young son are at the beach for her son's birthday when a tragic accident takes her husband's life. The incident is witnessed by her ex-boyfriend that left her years earlier. Michael rescues her young son and is there for her as she struggles with the reality of the situation her husband has left them in. With no money and on the verge of losing everything, Michael steps in and offers to take care of them.

This is such a good story. I appreciate how easy it is to read while dealing with sad situations. I especially enjoyed reading of April and Michael's past and why they made the decisions they did.

I voluntarily received a complimentary copy of this book, this is my honest review.

[Wendy Andrus]

Until April is the 8th book in the "Coastal Hearts" series, and the first book I've read by Ferguson. One thing that captured my attention about this story is that it is set in Dauphin Island, since I lived a couple years in Mobile during my childhood.

I was drawn into the story from the first chapter, and wanted to keep reading to find out what the outcome would be. I found it to be a powerful, impactful story of both April and Michael.

April is drowning in loss, grief, and debt, but she does her best to hang on to God in faith. Michael, on the other hand, doesn't want to hear anything at all about God. Will the love and care shown to them by April's church family soften Michael's heart?

If you enjoy contemporary Christian fiction with a touch of romance, you'll want to add this one to your TBR list. It seems to do well as a stand alone, but I look forward to reading the others in the series.

I received a complimentary copy. These opinions are my own.

[Bethany · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is not the first book in the series but they are standalones but after reading this I'm definitely going back and reading the other books! I really enjoyed this second chance romance! It's completely different than other second chance romances I've read before and I was hooked from the first chapter.
I loved the setting of the book, Dauphin Island, Alabama and now I want to visit there! It took me a bit to connect with Michael's character but the author writes his character so well to draw readers in to understand him better. And as a mother I completely felt and understood April's pain and what she was going through. Since I belong to a wonderful church community I loved seeing that in this book and I loved seeing the relationship blossom in a realistic way between Michael and April. I highly recommend this book to anyone that loves a contemporary second chance romance! Thank you very much for the eARC from the author.

[Amanda H · Rating 5 out of 5]

I have read and enjoyed the other books in this series, so I was thrilled to read Until April! It did not disappoint. The characters are well written and become like friends by the end of the book. My heart broke for April, as she discovered not all was as she thought with her marriage and life when her husband passes. This story has a beautiful message of forgiveness and redemption. I highly recommend picking it up!

I received this book from JustRead. This is my honest review.

[Barbara Tobey · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet Christian Romance

Second chance romance. An adorable little boy plays a big role in the story. I won the book on Goodreads.

[Mark Hayden · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another great book by Janet Ferguson

Another great read by Janet Ferguson! I always enjoy her stories of love and redemption. A truly inspiring Christian fiction author.