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Paper Hearts #2
Change of Heart
When a public scandal upends Evelyn Brandt’s neatly constructed life, she’s launched on a journey of self-discovery. She finds a new start in the most unlikely place—a picturesque Colorado farm, owned by her estranged friend, Trevor Whitney. Trevor promised his dying father he’d take care of the farm. He has his hands full trying to make good on that promise. The last thing he needs is Evelyn living in his guest house, unearthing old feelings and long-kept secrets. Trevor’s unexpected kindness pushes Evelyn to reclaim her dreams, but it also leaves her with many questions, and he’s never been one for sharing. If the truth is finally revealed, will it only drive them apart again, or is a change of heart too much to hope for?
386 pages, Paperback
First published March 1, 2016
164 people are currently reading
1525 people want to read
About the author
Courtney Walsh
37 books5,402 followersCourtney Walsh is a novelist, theatre director, and playwright. She writes low spice romance and women's fiction while juggling the performing arts studio and youth theatre she owns and runs with her husband. Her debut, A Sweethaven Summer, hit the New York Times and USA Today e-book bestseller lists. She is also a Carol award winner and Christy award finalist.
A creative at heart, Courtney has also written two craft books and several full-length musicals. She lives in Illinois with her husband and three children and a sometimes naughty Bernedoodle named Luna.
Visit her online at www.courtneywalshwrites.com.
A creative at heart, Courtney has also written two craft books and several full-length musicals. She lives in Illinois with her husband and three children and a sometimes naughty Bernedoodle named Luna.
Visit her online at www.courtneywalshwrites.com.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 192 reviews
February 15, 2022
Keep the tissues close by as you are reading CHANGE OF HEART by Courtney Walsh. She will have your emotions all over the place. Once I started reading, it was very hard to stop! The twists and turns made it impossible to put down, as I had to know what was going to happen to Evelyn. A Colorado senator’s wife, Evelyn Brandt seems to have it all. But her carefully constructed life comes toppling down when the FBI crashes her society brunch with news that her husband has been arrested for embezzlement, and he thinks it will all go away. In an ordinary town that might not be such a huge deal, but it’s a very big deal in Loves Park, Colorado where everything revolves around true love and romance. What an awesome story. All of Courtney’s characters feel genuine and relatable and put your emotions on one heck of a roller coaster ride.
CHANGE OF HEART is all about family and the past and the secrets that come out are heart tugging. It had me flipping through the pages like a woman on a mission. I had to know what was going to happen to Trevor and Evelyn and all the secondary characters. In a secret match-making scheme, the Valentine Volunteers, the ladies who keep the tradition of stamping mail with the city’s postmark, attempt to pull Evelyn back into their little group. Trevor and Evelyn are two old friends who reconnect as Evelyn’s seemingly perfect life falls apart, and their story is one of dreams, secrets, second chances, surrender, and love. I really wanted to reach in to the story and give them both a hug. The bantering between these two is hysterical and I was giggling out loud more than once. CHANGE OF HEART is a heart tugging story that will hold you hostage until the very last page. Once you start reading, it will be very hard to put down!
CHANGE OF HEART is without a doubt one of the best emotional books I’ve read in 2022. I was instantly emotionally invested in all of the characters. My heart broke for Evelyn and for all she was dealing with. The elderly ladies in the Valentine Volunteers, while interfering in a good-hearted way, really know their stuff. Courtney Walsh really knows how to write about family drama, heartbreak, faith and forgiveness. I can not wait to read more by this wonderful and heart tugging author. I have only read a few books by this spot on author but I have many of her older books to read and that brings me so much joy and happiness to know they are waiting for me! She has the most beautiful covers! Check them out!!
CHANGE OF HEART is all about family and the past and the secrets that come out are heart tugging. It had me flipping through the pages like a woman on a mission. I had to know what was going to happen to Trevor and Evelyn and all the secondary characters. In a secret match-making scheme, the Valentine Volunteers, the ladies who keep the tradition of stamping mail with the city’s postmark, attempt to pull Evelyn back into their little group. Trevor and Evelyn are two old friends who reconnect as Evelyn’s seemingly perfect life falls apart, and their story is one of dreams, secrets, second chances, surrender, and love. I really wanted to reach in to the story and give them both a hug. The bantering between these two is hysterical and I was giggling out loud more than once. CHANGE OF HEART is a heart tugging story that will hold you hostage until the very last page. Once you start reading, it will be very hard to put down!
CHANGE OF HEART is without a doubt one of the best emotional books I’ve read in 2022. I was instantly emotionally invested in all of the characters. My heart broke for Evelyn and for all she was dealing with. The elderly ladies in the Valentine Volunteers, while interfering in a good-hearted way, really know their stuff. Courtney Walsh really knows how to write about family drama, heartbreak, faith and forgiveness. I can not wait to read more by this wonderful and heart tugging author. I have only read a few books by this spot on author but I have many of her older books to read and that brings me so much joy and happiness to know they are waiting for me! She has the most beautiful covers! Check them out!!
December 7, 2017
This one just didn't work for me. Having known people close to me that ended up in a divorce situation from the same reason (infidelity), their psychologists were all agreed that one should have at least a year after a divorce is finalized before moving on and forming a new relationship which has any promise of becoming romantic. From the beginning, there is an undercurrent of attraction between Whit and Evie. Instead of it being 100% a story of how she learns to blaze her new path in life without her husband, it's very quickly given an underpinning of emotional attraction. Yes, they work as a couple. No, it wasn't wise to jump into a relationship so quickly (yet they call it "slow.")
I didn't like the Valentine Volunteers much in this one, after loving them in the first book. They keep sticking their noses where they don't belong, especially when it comes to getting Evelyn involved in their efforts before her divorce is fully final. They even ask a man if he is gay because he hasn't married—which gets my dander up to no end, because I've known nice church guys that people gossiped about, simply because they waited past 30 to marry, as Whit has. It's a hurtful and wrong to question whether someone is gay simply because they are single. Always makes me wonder....hasn't anyone read Paul's writings about the benefits of the single life????
Anyway, two stars simply because the writing itself is so well done and the ending is really sweet. The story arc to get there simply has issues and I couldn't get past that.
I didn't like the Valentine Volunteers much in this one, after loving them in the first book. They keep sticking their noses where they don't belong, especially when it comes to getting Evelyn involved in their efforts before her divorce is fully final. They even ask a man if he is gay because he hasn't married—which gets my dander up to no end, because I've known nice church guys that people gossiped about, simply because they waited past 30 to marry, as Whit has. It's a hurtful and wrong to question whether someone is gay simply because they are single. Always makes me wonder....hasn't anyone read Paul's writings about the benefits of the single life????
Anyway, two stars simply because the writing itself is so well done and the ending is really sweet. The story arc to get there simply has issues and I couldn't get past that.
October 18, 2017
Bir adam bir kadını 15 yıl aynı aşkla sevebilir mi? Trevor Whitney...❤ hem sinirden öldürmek istediğim hem de sevmesine aşık olduğum kitap karakteri oldu. Çok naif bir aşkla seven bir adam. Kendini, kimliğini, hayallerini, yaşadığı lüks hayatı aniden kaybetmiş bir kadın. O hayatını yeniden kurmaya, başına gelenleri kabullenmeye çalışırken, gerçek sevgiyi keşfedebilecek mi?
Uzun zamandır okuduğum en naif aşk hikayesi. Klişelerimiz tabiki var ama bu kitabın değerinden bir şey eksiltmemiş. İlk kitap Kağıttan Kalpler gibi sıcaklıkla, duygusallıkla birkaç saat içinde okunacak bir hikaye.
Uzun zamandır okuduğum en naif aşk hikayesi. Klişelerimiz tabiki var ama bu kitabın değerinden bir şey eksiltmemiş. İlk kitap Kağıttan Kalpler gibi sıcaklıkla, duygusallıkla birkaç saat içinde okunacak bir hikaye.
April 14, 2022
I really enjoyed most of this book and couldn't turn the pages fast enough. Evie had a lot to work through and had been deceived for so long. She really lost who she was and that took some time to recover from. I thought that Trevor did an admirable job of trying not to love her for all of those years, even though his heart never really let go. I felt that he was in an impossible situation for most of the early years of their friendship. I do think he made some wrong choices, though, mostly due to fear and to feeling less worthy than Christopher.
I struggled with the last part of the book and feeling as if it ended too abruptly. As tension built between Trevor and Evie and secrets came into the light, I felt that, while a harsh reaction, Evie did need to have time to work through her anger. That made sense. However, the dissipation of that anger almost seemed like a 180 degree flip from one day to the next, surprising me in its quickness. And I really needed an epilogue for this book. After the long build up of the dissolution of her marriage and the realization of Trevor's feelings all along, the anger and the forgiveness led to a new start. I would have really liked to see how these two were doing a year or so down the road. Evelyn realized that she had lost about ten years of her life to someone who did not really love her, so seeing that Trevor and Evie were in love, married, maybe starting a family would have rounded out the story for me and helped me to feel that even though their journey to each other was hard, it was worth it.
I struggled with the last part of the book and feeling as if it ended too abruptly. As tension built between Trevor and Evie and secrets came into the light, I felt that, while a harsh reaction, Evie did need to have time to work through her anger. That made sense. However, the dissipation of that anger almost seemed like a 180 degree flip from one day to the next, surprising me in its quickness. And I really needed an epilogue for this book. After the long build up of the dissolution of her marriage and the realization of Trevor's feelings all along, the anger and the forgiveness led to a new start. I would have really liked to see how these two were doing a year or so down the road. Evelyn realized that she had lost about ten years of her life to someone who did not really love her, so seeing that Trevor and Evie were in love, married, maybe starting a family would have rounded out the story for me and helped me to feel that even though their journey to each other was hard, it was worth it.
February 18, 2018
3.5
The opening of this story will grab your attention and keep you turning the pages to see how it all works out. Although this makes for a stand alone novel, for those who read Paper Hearts, you will enjoy visiting Loves Parks again and spending time with the secondary characters and even a few moments with the main characters from Paper Hearts.
Walsh does tackle a delicate subject, divorce, in this novel but I think she did a fine job at using it in this story. Seriously, may I just add, Walsh should win some sort of an award for penning the worlds biggest slime-ball. Chris was such a jerk. O. K. ,now that I have that out of my system, I thought there was a lot a reader could take from the story. Learning how to forgive, letting go of anger and disappointments, finding your identity and self-worth, surrendering your feelings to God, and following the Lords will are just a few. I thought the Christian elements were done well and they were not simple after thoughts that were added with little meaning. I really appreciated that about this book.
However, the reason I am not able to give this a full four star, is because of a personal preference in characters. I can only handle a lack of communication and not being honest with each other for so long. The main characters in this story were pushing those limits for me. I had to chuckle because Ursula, a secondary characters actually says this:
" This thing between you and Mr. Whitney." Ursula said. " It's annoying."
I actually considered giving this a four star simply because Ursula actually said that. Haha! I couldn't help but agree. This actually brings up another good point. There were moments in this book that made me laugh. I enjoyed laughing. Its not a depressing book;-)
I enjoyed the setting of being on a farm in this novel. It sounded beautiful and it made me want to visit there and pick my own vegetables, too.
The opening of this story will grab your attention and keep you turning the pages to see how it all works out. Although this makes for a stand alone novel, for those who read Paper Hearts, you will enjoy visiting Loves Parks again and spending time with the secondary characters and even a few moments with the main characters from Paper Hearts.
Walsh does tackle a delicate subject, divorce, in this novel but I think she did a fine job at using it in this story. Seriously, may I just add, Walsh should win some sort of an award for penning the worlds biggest slime-ball. Chris was such a jerk. O. K. ,now that I have that out of my system, I thought there was a lot a reader could take from the story. Learning how to forgive, letting go of anger and disappointments, finding your identity and self-worth, surrendering your feelings to God, and following the Lords will are just a few. I thought the Christian elements were done well and they were not simple after thoughts that were added with little meaning. I really appreciated that about this book.
However, the reason I am not able to give this a full four star, is because of a personal preference in characters. I can only handle a lack of communication and not being honest with each other for so long. The main characters in this story were pushing those limits for me. I had to chuckle because Ursula, a secondary characters actually says this:
" This thing between you and Mr. Whitney." Ursula said. " It's annoying."
I actually considered giving this a four star simply because Ursula actually said that. Haha! I couldn't help but agree. This actually brings up another good point. There were moments in this book that made me laugh. I enjoyed laughing. Its not a depressing book;-)
I enjoyed the setting of being on a farm in this novel. It sounded beautiful and it made me want to visit there and pick my own vegetables, too.
June 27, 2021
Such a great story! This book had me guessing how this story would unfold right from the beginning and up until the very last page! I was rooting for Evelyn and Trevor from the get go and had no idea what would come next but it all finally worked out in the end. I am looking forward to reading all the books by this author and will be on the lookout for her new releases in the future 🙂.
February 22, 2016
"...that's what makes them different from us. We get to choose if we want to add purpose to our days." (96)
That is what we have here in Courtney Walsh's Change of Heart. A sweet and captivating story of unrequited love turned second chances and ultimately surrendering to God. From the start of betrayal to opening her heart once again, and finding confidence in herself, Evelyn's experiences had me following her with my heart - crying with her, rooting for her and even sparring (in my mind) with her to find and accept herself. With Trevor, his love for Evelyn ran true and deep, and Courtney gave him a distinct voice. A voice that speaks to readers as to who he is as a thoughtful friend and a compassionate man. Years of self-denial led to his bitter and grumpy state, but with help from the lovable philanthropic group, The Valentines Volunteers in Love Park, as well as many prayers, his surrender to God was bitter-sweet. Will Evelyn's dream to be an independent artist, and Trevor's dream for Evelyn to be happy come true?
"For something that makes your heart leap. God's in the dream-making business." (259)
A story of dreams and hearts aligned, the second of the Paper Hearts series, will have you wishing for the third story as soon as possible, or buy the first right away, as I did. Courtney's note at the end of the book to readers spoke of God's guidance in her writings and I look forward to more books by an author that surrendered her talents to Him.
"I don't want to be the one who has everything all figured out because it leaves no room for God to work in me. I would much rather readily admit I have no idea what I'm doing and can't do any of this life stuff without Him.
My prayer for this book is that it will not only give you a few hours of peaceful escape, but that it will also help you, dear reader, take a look at the regrets you've been carrying with you and finally lay them down...while the human heart tends to be fickle, God's heart toward us never changes." (397-398)
Thank you, Courtney.
This review was first posted on Just Commonly Blog.
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, Tyndale House Publishers for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. For my review policy, please see my Disclosure page.
That is what we have here in Courtney Walsh's Change of Heart. A sweet and captivating story of unrequited love turned second chances and ultimately surrendering to God. From the start of betrayal to opening her heart once again, and finding confidence in herself, Evelyn's experiences had me following her with my heart - crying with her, rooting for her and even sparring (in my mind) with her to find and accept herself. With Trevor, his love for Evelyn ran true and deep, and Courtney gave him a distinct voice. A voice that speaks to readers as to who he is as a thoughtful friend and a compassionate man. Years of self-denial led to his bitter and grumpy state, but with help from the lovable philanthropic group, The Valentines Volunteers in Love Park, as well as many prayers, his surrender to God was bitter-sweet. Will Evelyn's dream to be an independent artist, and Trevor's dream for Evelyn to be happy come true?
"For something that makes your heart leap. God's in the dream-making business." (259)
A story of dreams and hearts aligned, the second of the Paper Hearts series, will have you wishing for the third story as soon as possible, or buy the first right away, as I did. Courtney's note at the end of the book to readers spoke of God's guidance in her writings and I look forward to more books by an author that surrendered her talents to Him.
"I don't want to be the one who has everything all figured out because it leaves no room for God to work in me. I would much rather readily admit I have no idea what I'm doing and can't do any of this life stuff without Him.
My prayer for this book is that it will not only give you a few hours of peaceful escape, but that it will also help you, dear reader, take a look at the regrets you've been carrying with you and finally lay them down...while the human heart tends to be fickle, God's heart toward us never changes." (397-398)
Thank you, Courtney.
This review was first posted on Just Commonly Blog.
NOTE: I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher, Tyndale House Publishers for an honest review. All opinions expressed are my own. For my review policy, please see my Disclosure page.
Want to read
April 3, 2016About the Book
A Colorado senator’s wife, Evelyn Brandt seems to have it all. But her carefully constructed life comes toppling down when the FBI crashes her society brunch with news that her husband has been arrested for embezzlement, and he’s far from repentant. It turns out this was only the start of his indiscretions―for which he has little regret.
As the weeks following the scandal turn into months, Evelyn withdraws, even shirking her duties with the philanthropic Valentine Volunteers. The inquisitive women of the group are determined not to let Evelyn’s divorce destroy her. They have big plans for her to use her long-forgotten artistic talent to reimagine the city’s iconic lamppost hearts. But doing so will force Evelyn to work closely with Trevor Whitney, her ex-husband’s former best friend. Though she and Trevor used to be close―and he’s been letting her hide in his guesthouse―his gruffness conveys his unease with the situation.
Amid the beauty of Trevor’s farm and the comfort of a paintbrush, Evelyn starts to reclaim the dreams she sacrificed to become the perfect politician’s wife. And as creativity inspires them both, Whit begins to see the girl he fell in love with before his friend―and his own mistakes―stole his chance. Possibilities for a new beginning emerge, but long-kept secrets threaten to ruin everything. After so much time, is a change of heart too much to hope for?
My Review
Change of Heart is not normally the type of book I gravitate towards. Change of Heart is the story of a couple going through an extremely difficult time in their marriage. I usually read books about the beginnings of love and the falling love, so this was something new for me. While it's not a book I would normally read the writing was so beautiful and that was what kept me reading more than anything. This book is worth reading just for the writing itself. Change of Heart deals with betrayel, broken marriages, and redemption. It's nice to see some Christian Fiction authors write stories dealing with real issues that some couples go through. I hope to see more of this in the future.
A Colorado senator’s wife, Evelyn Brandt seems to have it all. But her carefully constructed life comes toppling down when the FBI crashes her society brunch with news that her husband has been arrested for embezzlement, and he’s far from repentant. It turns out this was only the start of his indiscretions―for which he has little regret.
As the weeks following the scandal turn into months, Evelyn withdraws, even shirking her duties with the philanthropic Valentine Volunteers. The inquisitive women of the group are determined not to let Evelyn’s divorce destroy her. They have big plans for her to use her long-forgotten artistic talent to reimagine the city’s iconic lamppost hearts. But doing so will force Evelyn to work closely with Trevor Whitney, her ex-husband’s former best friend. Though she and Trevor used to be close―and he’s been letting her hide in his guesthouse―his gruffness conveys his unease with the situation.
Amid the beauty of Trevor’s farm and the comfort of a paintbrush, Evelyn starts to reclaim the dreams she sacrificed to become the perfect politician’s wife. And as creativity inspires them both, Whit begins to see the girl he fell in love with before his friend―and his own mistakes―stole his chance. Possibilities for a new beginning emerge, but long-kept secrets threaten to ruin everything. After so much time, is a change of heart too much to hope for?
My Review
Change of Heart is not normally the type of book I gravitate towards. Change of Heart is the story of a couple going through an extremely difficult time in their marriage. I usually read books about the beginnings of love and the falling love, so this was something new for me. While it's not a book I would normally read the writing was so beautiful and that was what kept me reading more than anything. This book is worth reading just for the writing itself. Change of Heart deals with betrayel, broken marriages, and redemption. It's nice to see some Christian Fiction authors write stories dealing with real issues that some couples go through. I hope to see more of this in the future.
December 7, 2017
This book was so enjoyable as the setting is the town where I live Loveland Colorado (but renamed Love's Park). The story revolves around our annual Valentine's Celebration where letters are mailed and remailed with our annual Sweetheart City stamp. Each of the lamp posts around town also holds a wooden heart with a special message for someone. The focus is Evelyn Brandt, wealthy socialite and wife of a local state Senator. Her world falls apart when she discovers that her husband has been leading a double life. Evelyn had first been controlled by her military father and then controlled by her husband. Now she has to learn to stand on her own two feet. I loved the way she grew and found her true self as well as the gifts and talents the Lord had given her. Trevor Whitney, her friend since high school, was a hero you love to hate. He was so caring towards Evelyn and was always there for her; but, at other times, he was a complete jerk! Made me just want to shake him. But through forgiveness, truthfulness, and God's grace, both Evelyn and Trevor found there are second chances in life. Overall, a good Christian contemporary romance.
Favorite Quote: "It might be time to surrender...Truly and complete surrender. You may've thought you did that, but unless you were willing to accept that the answer might be no, you didin't."
"Takes a whole lotta strength to give the thing you want most over to God, not knowing whether he will give it back to you. And it takes a lot of faith to mean it.
Favorite Quote: "It might be time to surrender...Truly and complete surrender. You may've thought you did that, but unless you were willing to accept that the answer might be no, you didin't."
"Takes a whole lotta strength to give the thing you want most over to God, not knowing whether he will give it back to you. And it takes a lot of faith to mean it.
March 16, 2016
I was hooked to this story from the start. Evie and Trevor are written in a way that just draws you in, and I was totally invested in their outcome. Unrequited love has such a potential for passion and angst, which was fully tapped without crossing the line into melodramatic. I loved the themes of rediscovering your dreams and reinventing yourself as Evie realized that it was time for her to focus on herself and not her self-absorbed husband. The ladies that befriend her in her time of need each have their own quirks but provide support and help as Evie gets her feet back under her. I also enjoyed Trevor's aunt who gardens on his farm and gives him a little push when he needs it. It was quite the journey as Evie and Trevor's relationship ebbs and flows, shifts and changes, but always moving toward something special.
(Thank you to Tyndale Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
(Thank you to Tyndale Publishing for a copy of the book in exchange for my honest review)
January 25, 2016
I adored this book. Courtney Walsh has a gift for creating novels that illustrate some aspect of love. With Paper Hearts, it was cherishing the good and the bad. With Change of Hearts it's pulling out the weeds that have grown up in our lives to rediscover who we are. It's also about true surrender of the dream of love. The story is so sweet and the characters compelling. I truly loved this story and can't wait for Courtney's next book. She truly has a style I enjoy with the secondary characters and setting that move a story from good to wonderful.
April 13, 2016
4.5 stars! I will give my reason for my pull back from a full 5 in a moment, but I do want to say, beautiful book, characters with depth, cover to die for, fantastic location! There's a lot to love in this sequel to 'Paper Hearts'. You could quite easily read this as a stand alone book, as not many references are made to the first story, and those that are, explained clearly in order that there is no confusion for the reader.
I loved everything about these two characters, and the heart rendering emotions each one of them faces in their own right. Evelyn struggling from the shock of her husband's indiscretions & her humiliation as he is arrested and investigated for fraud - she is not naturally a woman that likes the public eye. Yet his job and status has thrown her in it practically from the beginning of their 10 year marriage. She has tried to live in a way her husband expects, along the way gradually slipping into a person she doesn't even now recognize, now that everything she knows comes crashing down. The fake reality of friendships that suddenly disappear, bring to the fore that she was alone practically all along. She is lost, and heart broken with total loss of self-worth. You see the pattern of abuser & victim, and how he manipulates her, how she constantly slips under his control. Its frustrating to read, but oh so real, and I love that the author brings that element. Trevor (Whit) former best friend to her husband since school, has secretly loved Evelyn from the moment they first met. Even knowing that his friend went after her to spite him, and knowing of his friends indiscretions, secrets he has kept from Evie, he has painfully tried to honor their marriage, and stay away in what he felt was the best interests of her. Often when we truly love someone, we make those kind of judgements, that while might seem stupid to an onlooker, I did feel like Trevor was doing the best he knew how in the moment. It could be easy to sit there, on the outside looking in and judge him as an idiot, but when you look at it in a totally selfless act, the reasoning is quite clear. It only adds to the appeal for the reader. Trevor owns the family farm on the outskirts of town, and is pulled into the crisis when he see's Evelyn on the TV hounded by the media, drives over there and extracts her, and brings her home. Immediately the contrast in not only Trevor & Chris (Evie's husband) but also the home life, brings something special to the story. It's important that a differentiation can be made, and its written so well. Evelyn craves privacy and solitude, and she is gifted that here.
Before you know it the Valentine Volunteers of the town arrive on the scene, and the story unfolds in a natural and easy pace. Fun to see the quirky characters from the previous book. Ursula being the cranky but loveable old woman being my favourite. However, and here comes my reason for my lack of 5 stars, I was so disappointed that we didn't get to revisit Abigail and Jacob - as a couple, until so close to the end, I was starting to wonder if that relationship didn't even survive! Where is he? I kept wondering as I read the book. Abigail interacts regularly, and its good to see how she is succeeding. I can say when Jacob finally made an appearance there was a 'whoop' within, though it was disappointing - not much interaction, or affection. For me, I really love a book to end completely. Usually that requires an epilogue, but can be done without. This book doesn't resolve until the final 2/3 pages. That's a long time to wait to see your two loved characters come together. Suddenly then, the book ends. I would have loved to see them, share a moment on the 2 chairs outside the guesthouse, that are mentioned often, that Evelyn finds peace in, and Trevor thinks about spending time with her there. Of all his dreams to have a wife, and children, I wanted to see him get to experience what Casey & Marin were. Please, please I hope there is another book in this series, to satisfy our romantic visions for these 2! However, with the lack of Abigail & Jacob in this book, I am not holding out much hope, and expect that was the last interaction we were going to get for Evie & Whit. Which overall makes me sad. Loved this one! Truly! The characters - adorable! I just wanted a little more ending for them.
On that note, here's a positive end to my review. There's a reason I love Christian fiction so much, and it is that in each and every book there's a simple message that I take away - just for me. In 'Change of Heart', my take away is something that's always been a challenge for me, and that is that 'the only opinion that matters' is God's. We spend so much time in our lives worrying what others are judging of us, hoping to fit in, have friends, be what others might expect. Finding that inner peace to be true to yourself and be content in knowing you are 'good with God' is a destination I want to head towards.
I won a copy of this book, but requested it from Netgalley also, in order to document a review there for the publisher. This is my honest review.
I loved everything about these two characters, and the heart rendering emotions each one of them faces in their own right. Evelyn struggling from the shock of her husband's indiscretions & her humiliation as he is arrested and investigated for fraud - she is not naturally a woman that likes the public eye. Yet his job and status has thrown her in it practically from the beginning of their 10 year marriage. She has tried to live in a way her husband expects, along the way gradually slipping into a person she doesn't even now recognize, now that everything she knows comes crashing down. The fake reality of friendships that suddenly disappear, bring to the fore that she was alone practically all along. She is lost, and heart broken with total loss of self-worth. You see the pattern of abuser & victim, and how he manipulates her, how she constantly slips under his control. Its frustrating to read, but oh so real, and I love that the author brings that element. Trevor (Whit) former best friend to her husband since school, has secretly loved Evelyn from the moment they first met. Even knowing that his friend went after her to spite him, and knowing of his friends indiscretions, secrets he has kept from Evie, he has painfully tried to honor their marriage, and stay away in what he felt was the best interests of her. Often when we truly love someone, we make those kind of judgements, that while might seem stupid to an onlooker, I did feel like Trevor was doing the best he knew how in the moment. It could be easy to sit there, on the outside looking in and judge him as an idiot, but when you look at it in a totally selfless act, the reasoning is quite clear. It only adds to the appeal for the reader. Trevor owns the family farm on the outskirts of town, and is pulled into the crisis when he see's Evelyn on the TV hounded by the media, drives over there and extracts her, and brings her home. Immediately the contrast in not only Trevor & Chris (Evie's husband) but also the home life, brings something special to the story. It's important that a differentiation can be made, and its written so well. Evelyn craves privacy and solitude, and she is gifted that here.
Before you know it the Valentine Volunteers of the town arrive on the scene, and the story unfolds in a natural and easy pace. Fun to see the quirky characters from the previous book. Ursula being the cranky but loveable old woman being my favourite. However, and here comes my reason for my lack of 5 stars, I was so disappointed that we didn't get to revisit Abigail and Jacob - as a couple, until so close to the end, I was starting to wonder if that relationship didn't even survive! Where is he? I kept wondering as I read the book. Abigail interacts regularly, and its good to see how she is succeeding. I can say when Jacob finally made an appearance there was a 'whoop' within, though it was disappointing - not much interaction, or affection. For me, I really love a book to end completely. Usually that requires an epilogue, but can be done without. This book doesn't resolve until the final 2/3 pages. That's a long time to wait to see your two loved characters come together. Suddenly then, the book ends. I would have loved to see them, share a moment on the 2 chairs outside the guesthouse, that are mentioned often, that Evelyn finds peace in, and Trevor thinks about spending time with her there. Of all his dreams to have a wife, and children, I wanted to see him get to experience what Casey & Marin were. Please, please I hope there is another book in this series, to satisfy our romantic visions for these 2! However, with the lack of Abigail & Jacob in this book, I am not holding out much hope, and expect that was the last interaction we were going to get for Evie & Whit. Which overall makes me sad. Loved this one! Truly! The characters - adorable! I just wanted a little more ending for them.
On that note, here's a positive end to my review. There's a reason I love Christian fiction so much, and it is that in each and every book there's a simple message that I take away - just for me. In 'Change of Heart', my take away is something that's always been a challenge for me, and that is that 'the only opinion that matters' is God's. We spend so much time in our lives worrying what others are judging of us, hoping to fit in, have friends, be what others might expect. Finding that inner peace to be true to yourself and be content in knowing you are 'good with God' is a destination I want to head towards.
I won a copy of this book, but requested it from Netgalley also, in order to document a review there for the publisher. This is my honest review.
September 5, 2016
Put plainly, this was an excellent book! I devoured it. Courtney Walsh goes back to the small town of Loves Park for this second installment of her Paper Hearts series.
Evelyn Brandt, wife of senator Christopher Brandt is shocked when the FBI come to her door to search her house. Her husband has just been arrested for embezzlement and it seems that her life has pretty much been a lie for the last ten years. Evelyn withdraws from the public eye, living in the guest house of Trevor Whitney, her husband's former best friend. Trevor is short with her and she wonders why he is helping her when he can't even be civil to her.
Walsh has created a town that makes the reader want to actually visit and the inhabitants are just the folks you'd want to see in church on Sundays and meet on the street while going about your daily business. I especially love the Valentine Volunteers, the group of ladies who go about doing good and matchmaking.
The spiritual lessons here are tremendous, too. Surrender. To God. The only way to do it right. In her notes at the end of the book, Walsh says, "...this book is about surrendering our will to whatever God has for us. Even when the answers aren't ones we want to hear. Even when everything seems to go completely wrong. Even when every choice we make seems to be opposite of what we should've made." And again, 'I don't want to be the one who has everything all figured out because it leaves no room for God to work in me.' Wow. Pretty powerful stuff that. I've also learned that, even though we may think it is not the way we want it to be, being in God's will is the absolute best place to be. Always.
I highly recommend this book. It's worth every penny I paid for it. And I'd do it again.
Evelyn Brandt, wife of senator Christopher Brandt is shocked when the FBI come to her door to search her house. Her husband has just been arrested for embezzlement and it seems that her life has pretty much been a lie for the last ten years. Evelyn withdraws from the public eye, living in the guest house of Trevor Whitney, her husband's former best friend. Trevor is short with her and she wonders why he is helping her when he can't even be civil to her.
Walsh has created a town that makes the reader want to actually visit and the inhabitants are just the folks you'd want to see in church on Sundays and meet on the street while going about your daily business. I especially love the Valentine Volunteers, the group of ladies who go about doing good and matchmaking.
The spiritual lessons here are tremendous, too. Surrender. To God. The only way to do it right. In her notes at the end of the book, Walsh says, "...this book is about surrendering our will to whatever God has for us. Even when the answers aren't ones we want to hear. Even when everything seems to go completely wrong. Even when every choice we make seems to be opposite of what we should've made." And again, 'I don't want to be the one who has everything all figured out because it leaves no room for God to work in me.' Wow. Pretty powerful stuff that. I've also learned that, even though we may think it is not the way we want it to be, being in God's will is the absolute best place to be. Always.
I highly recommend this book. It's worth every penny I paid for it. And I'd do it again.
February 14, 2016
This review is also posted on Book by Book.
I adored Courtney Walsh’s Paper Hearts when I read it last February, so I had high hopes for another delightfully romantic read this year when I picked up Change of Heart. Needless to say, I was pleased to find out I wouldn’t be disappointed. In this novel, Walsh revisits the charming town of Loves Park and many of the same quirky characters as she focuses her story on Evelyn Brandt and Trevor Whitney. These two old friends reconnect as Evelyn's seemingly perfect life falls apart, and their story is one of dreams, secrets, second chances, surrender, and love. It’s a heartfelt and emotional read that will not leave fans of contemporary fiction disappointed. I enjoyed it, recommend it, and now look forward to reading more from Courtney Walsh in the future.
Thanks to Tyndale BlogNetwork, I received a copy of Change of Heart and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
I adored Courtney Walsh’s Paper Hearts when I read it last February, so I had high hopes for another delightfully romantic read this year when I picked up Change of Heart. Needless to say, I was pleased to find out I wouldn’t be disappointed. In this novel, Walsh revisits the charming town of Loves Park and many of the same quirky characters as she focuses her story on Evelyn Brandt and Trevor Whitney. These two old friends reconnect as Evelyn's seemingly perfect life falls apart, and their story is one of dreams, secrets, second chances, surrender, and love. It’s a heartfelt and emotional read that will not leave fans of contemporary fiction disappointed. I enjoyed it, recommend it, and now look forward to reading more from Courtney Walsh in the future.
Thanks to Tyndale BlogNetwork, I received a copy of Change of Heart and the opportunity to provide an honest review. I was not required to write a positive review, and all the opinions I have expressed are my own.
February 13, 2016
Serious sigh factor! I couldn't put this book down. I loved Paper Hearts (book 1) and got a kick out of the video commercial for that book but book 2 is just as good.
The Valentine Volunteers of Love's Park are involved once again as they help their group member Evelyn recover from a nasty public humiliation. Evelyn's longtime friend Trevor is also there to help her find her way. This book just leaves you feeling good and restores your faith in clean romance. I will definitely be keeping this book in my library to read yearly. I received a copy of this book for an honest review.
The Valentine Volunteers of Love's Park are involved once again as they help their group member Evelyn recover from a nasty public humiliation. Evelyn's longtime friend Trevor is also there to help her find her way. This book just leaves you feeling good and restores your faith in clean romance. I will definitely be keeping this book in my library to read yearly. I received a copy of this book for an honest review.
February 10, 2016
Evelyn appears to have the perfect life. But inwardly she's unhappy. Suddenly her husband is accused of embezzling and even more unpleasantness comes out over the next few weeks. Evie, as her old friends called her, has to learn to stand on her own two feet and learn to think for herself again. She realizes that she's become a stepford wife and has lost herself. With a little help from the women of Valentine Volunteers and a place to retreat on the farm of an old friend, Seth, she becomes someone she can like again.
I've been meaning to read a book by this author for some time. And I'm so glad I did. I now have a new favorite author to add to my list. The writing was heartfelt, dramatic, authentic, and raw. It was full of love, faith, and emotions. There were so rough parts emotionally, but the author handled them well without bringing the reader down. The scene was painted so graphically that I felt pulled into the story and its characters. Unfortunately I haven't read the first book in this series, but it didn't detract from the book at all. I really appreciated how the author showcased true friendship through the actions of the secondary characters. The elements of faith that wove through the story were integral to the plot, but didn't overwhelm it. Overall, this was a wonderfully written story that will be sticking with me for quite some time.
I received this book free of charge from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.
I've been meaning to read a book by this author for some time. And I'm so glad I did. I now have a new favorite author to add to my list. The writing was heartfelt, dramatic, authentic, and raw. It was full of love, faith, and emotions. There were so rough parts emotionally, but the author handled them well without bringing the reader down. The scene was painted so graphically that I felt pulled into the story and its characters. Unfortunately I haven't read the first book in this series, but it didn't detract from the book at all. I really appreciated how the author showcased true friendship through the actions of the secondary characters. The elements of faith that wove through the story were integral to the plot, but didn't overwhelm it. Overall, this was a wonderfully written story that will be sticking with me for quite some time.
I received this book free of charge from Tyndale in exchange for my honest review.
January 22, 2025
First 5 stars of 2025!! First *real* read of the year!
I don’t know why I struggled to settle into any book since the year started. The first I finished was a novella and it felt just okay, even though it was from one of my favorite authors. The others were DNFs. I decided to think of what mood I was in, rather than pick up what I thought looked good. I realized I was more in a contemporary mood than historical. I went on the GR Christian Fiction Contemporary read list, and somehow decided to read this book among the others. (Kinda feel it was a fated pick.)
Oh this book was riveting!! From very early, I was hooked! I worried for a bit that even though it started strong, it might lose me later on. And for a moment between 40-50% I thought I might DNF because the plot started to tilt toward a direction I wasn’t digging. With the whole wooden hearts and intervention of the three old ladies. I thought it would lose the steam of the scandal, the secret yearning, and become a sappy small town romance. But the author actually combined all in a way that retained the tension while bringing in heart! Eventually, I couldn’t stop reading till the end, and I’m actually writing this review at 12am.
Trevor and Evie were such a captivating couple. I think the author did a great job with them, their conflicts, and their growth arcs! Trevor conflict especially felt so unique, with his love for her since they were teens and his guilt for covering for Chris’s infidelity. His yearly wooden hearts was a twist I didn’t see coming and it was so beautiful! They felt so real! Many times my heart was utterly crushed for them. I just loved following their story!
The old ladies were a nice addition, and Ursula cracked me up a lot. I also liked many other side characters like Casey and Marin, and Lilian. I did find the whole valentines theme of the book cheesy—my worst day of the year—and I’m glad it wasn’t more prominent than this.
Chris was absolutely terrible and I’m glad for the end the unrepentant jerk got. I hope to never encounter such narcissistic person in real life.
I did think there were some repetitions, and sometimes happenings seemed to counter themselves. For instance, Trevor would think of how he never really gave Evie up if he was writing up those wooden hearts for her. Then much later on, someone else would say the exact same thing and he’d be shocked by it and act like it was this whole reveal. Multiple times, this happened in both of their POVs and it didn’t bother me too much but I wonder how the editor didn’t catch it. Also, after the museum party, the groveling/reconciliation part dragged out too much. I had to skim to get to the main reconciliation.
Maybe I have sleep-mind right now, but while reading I had so much thoughts and now I can’t think of most of them. I’m glad I found this story and have hopefully broken the reading slump. It was riveting ad full of emotions! While I didn’t connect too well with the Christian message as it wasn’t explored deeply, I’m glad the book had glimpses of it, and that it’s a clean book! I’ll definitely read more from the author. 🌟
I don’t know why I struggled to settle into any book since the year started. The first I finished was a novella and it felt just okay, even though it was from one of my favorite authors. The others were DNFs. I decided to think of what mood I was in, rather than pick up what I thought looked good. I realized I was more in a contemporary mood than historical. I went on the GR Christian Fiction Contemporary read list, and somehow decided to read this book among the others. (Kinda feel it was a fated pick.)
Oh this book was riveting!! From very early, I was hooked! I worried for a bit that even though it started strong, it might lose me later on. And for a moment between 40-50% I thought I might DNF because the plot started to tilt toward a direction I wasn’t digging. With the whole wooden hearts and intervention of the three old ladies. I thought it would lose the steam of the scandal, the secret yearning, and become a sappy small town romance. But the author actually combined all in a way that retained the tension while bringing in heart! Eventually, I couldn’t stop reading till the end, and I’m actually writing this review at 12am.
Trevor and Evie were such a captivating couple. I think the author did a great job with them, their conflicts, and their growth arcs! Trevor conflict especially felt so unique, with his love for her since they were teens and his guilt for covering for Chris’s infidelity. His yearly wooden hearts was a twist I didn’t see coming and it was so beautiful! They felt so real! Many times my heart was utterly crushed for them. I just loved following their story!
The old ladies were a nice addition, and Ursula cracked me up a lot. I also liked many other side characters like Casey and Marin, and Lilian. I did find the whole valentines theme of the book cheesy—my worst day of the year—and I’m glad it wasn’t more prominent than this.
Chris was absolutely terrible and I’m glad for the end the unrepentant jerk got. I hope to never encounter such narcissistic person in real life.
I did think there were some repetitions, and sometimes happenings seemed to counter themselves. For instance, Trevor would think of how he never really gave Evie up if he was writing up those wooden hearts for her. Then much later on, someone else would say the exact same thing and he’d be shocked by it and act like it was this whole reveal. Multiple times, this happened in both of their POVs and it didn’t bother me too much but I wonder how the editor didn’t catch it. Also, after the museum party, the groveling/reconciliation part dragged out too much. I had to skim to get to the main reconciliation.
Maybe I have sleep-mind right now, but while reading I had so much thoughts and now I can’t think of most of them. I’m glad I found this story and have hopefully broken the reading slump. It was riveting ad full of emotions! While I didn’t connect too well with the Christian message as it wasn’t explored deeply, I’m glad the book had glimpses of it, and that it’s a clean book! I’ll definitely read more from the author. 🌟
January 13, 2018
I have mixed feelings about this book. As far as the story goes, I think the author does a great job of illustrating 3 people who suffer from the consequences of acting (or choosing not to act) out of fear. In the author's note, she mentions that the main theme is surrender, and there's also definitely a large element of that. So while readers might get frustrated with the main characters, bear with them because they have something to say, something they all learn (well, two of them, anyway) the hard way. And I appreciate that the author made sure both characters separately resolved their issues before getting together. Falling in love in and of itself doesn't fix broken people, and a good CF romance author recognizes that.
Like other reviewers, I did think the MC in reality would/should have required more time and space to heal. The one thing that keeps it from being entirely unrealistic and untenable is the fact that both MC's had a history already, so it wasn't a rebound type of situation in the usual sense.
I didn't give it 5 stars because I had a hard time "getting to know" the main character, possibly because she herself was in a state of flux for most of the book. I think a stronger establishment of her "before", "after" and "back to before" characters would have been helpful. (The male MC, however, was consistent and well-drawn.).
I also felt like the end was rushed. After all the angst and turmoil, the resolution was pretty abrupt.
Although I prefer the first book in the series, this one is worth reading for the reasons I mentioned at the beginning of my review. I love a book that tackles a tricky subject!
Like other reviewers, I did think the MC in reality would/should have required more time and space to heal. The one thing that keeps it from being entirely unrealistic and untenable is the fact that both MC's had a history already, so it wasn't a rebound type of situation in the usual sense.
I didn't give it 5 stars because I had a hard time "getting to know" the main character, possibly because she herself was in a state of flux for most of the book. I think a stronger establishment of her "before", "after" and "back to before" characters would have been helpful. (The male MC, however, was consistent and well-drawn.).
I also felt like the end was rushed. After all the angst and turmoil, the resolution was pretty abrupt.
Although I prefer the first book in the series, this one is worth reading for the reasons I mentioned at the beginning of my review. I love a book that tackles a tricky subject!
actual-tbr-list
November 16, 2021Sale alert! $3.99 paperback on Christianbook right now!
https://www.christianbook.com/2-chang...
https://www.christianbook.com/2-chang...
June 26, 2025
I got choked up several times reading this one. It is good, good, good; a six on a five point scale.
September 21, 2022
My 2016 review:
In Change of Heart, Courtney Walsh tackles the difficult subject matter of divorce, betrayal, and the sense of being lost with a sensitivity and grace that was entirely refreshing and believable. It was painful to read and it hurt my heart to watch Evelyn and Trevor struggle through their world-shifting circumstances. But, it was SO GOOD!!
This book was all about discovering that your world is a façade that has shattered and then trying to figure out which parts were real. It was about the struggle of having to start over, and maybe not know who you are anymore because you lost yourself somewhere along the way. It was about picking up the pieces of that broken life and having to make the decision to get up every day and try putting it back together.
And it is a story about the ability to heal and forgive. It is about love. It is about accepting what God has given you, good and bad. It is about hope.
I pretty much enjoyed every aspect of this story, but there are a couple things I want to highlight about Evelyn and Trevor’s characters. Evelyn has this passion for art and creating beauty, and I loved seeing that passion cultivated within her again. And Trevor just has a heart of gold. I loved his generosity and his self-sacrificing kindness towards the girl he has always loved.
I don’t think I can say much more about this book. It’s not a light, happy book, so if that’s what you’re looking for, this isn’t quite it. But it is a deeply personal, heart wrenching, emotionally exhausting book. In the best way possible. And if you think you’re ready for that, please go pick it up. You’re going to love it.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.*
In Change of Heart, Courtney Walsh tackles the difficult subject matter of divorce, betrayal, and the sense of being lost with a sensitivity and grace that was entirely refreshing and believable. It was painful to read and it hurt my heart to watch Evelyn and Trevor struggle through their world-shifting circumstances. But, it was SO GOOD!!
This book was all about discovering that your world is a façade that has shattered and then trying to figure out which parts were real. It was about the struggle of having to start over, and maybe not know who you are anymore because you lost yourself somewhere along the way. It was about picking up the pieces of that broken life and having to make the decision to get up every day and try putting it back together.
And it is a story about the ability to heal and forgive. It is about love. It is about accepting what God has given you, good and bad. It is about hope.
I pretty much enjoyed every aspect of this story, but there are a couple things I want to highlight about Evelyn and Trevor’s characters. Evelyn has this passion for art and creating beauty, and I loved seeing that passion cultivated within her again. And Trevor just has a heart of gold. I loved his generosity and his self-sacrificing kindness towards the girl he has always loved.
I don’t think I can say much more about this book. It’s not a light, happy book, so if that’s what you’re looking for, this isn’t quite it. But it is a deeply personal, heart wrenching, emotionally exhausting book. In the best way possible. And if you think you’re ready for that, please go pick it up. You’re going to love it.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher in exchange for my honest review. All opinions expressed are my own.*
February 9, 2016
I'm a BIG fan of Walsh's so when I got a chance to read this book, I jumped at the chance. I can always tell from the first chapter how involved I'll be in the book. From chapter 1, I knew that I was going to love this book. I was a little worried at how Evelyn would be able to go from married to single to in love in under 400 pages but I was mightily surprised by the development.
The feelings and emotions throughout this book are real and the writing makes you empathize with both characters. Courtney wrote Christopher as heartless, but your hatred for him grew, as Evelyn's did.
One thing I especially loved was the change in voice, in her writing, between Whit and Evie. Whit sounded like a man, he thought like a man, he reacted like a man. There wasn't a time that I thought, "Men don't act/feel/talk like that".
I'm disappointed that I read the book so fast because I feel like I'm missing friends now that it's over.
I'm interested in your thoughts of it, especially pages 286-296.
Overall, the emotions were spot on, the characters were developed and the plot kept everything interesting.
The feelings and emotions throughout this book are real and the writing makes you empathize with both characters. Courtney wrote Christopher as heartless, but your hatred for him grew, as Evelyn's did.
One thing I especially loved was the change in voice, in her writing, between Whit and Evie. Whit sounded like a man, he thought like a man, he reacted like a man. There wasn't a time that I thought, "Men don't act/feel/talk like that".
I'm disappointed that I read the book so fast because I feel like I'm missing friends now that it's over.
I'm interested in your thoughts of it, especially pages 286-296.
Overall, the emotions were spot on, the characters were developed and the plot kept everything interesting.
March 12, 2016
I can't praise Courtney Walsh's latest release Change of Hearts enough. From the characters to the setting to the message, this book soaked into my mind and left an impression that will not fade anytime soon.
I must admit, this book took me a little longer than usual to finish. But this is in no way the fault of the author. In fact, it is a credit to Walsh's ability to present a story that touched me so deeply, that I often had to stop and ponder her message, internalizing the truths that were unfolding before me. This story hit me at a time when I needed her message of identity in God and surrendering to His will. And while the character development and romance were very well written, it is this theme that brought tears to my eyes and hope to my heart.
Walsh has become one of my favorite authors. Her storytelling style and ability to speak hope and truth through her characters holds a depth that draws me in. I know I will anxiously be awaiting her next book!
I must admit, this book took me a little longer than usual to finish. But this is in no way the fault of the author. In fact, it is a credit to Walsh's ability to present a story that touched me so deeply, that I often had to stop and ponder her message, internalizing the truths that were unfolding before me. This story hit me at a time when I needed her message of identity in God and surrendering to His will. And while the character development and romance were very well written, it is this theme that brought tears to my eyes and hope to my heart.
Walsh has become one of my favorite authors. Her storytelling style and ability to speak hope and truth through her characters holds a depth that draws me in. I know I will anxiously be awaiting her next book!
February 17, 2020
Change of Heart by Courtney Walsh is a beautifully written enlightening and tragic story. It is disheartening to see the horror of truths of Evelyn’s husband’s wrong doings and to see how horribly people treat Evelyn due to this scandal. But it is also wonderful and uplifting to see Evelyn eventually find herself and rediscover her artistic ability and even eventually love. This is one of those stories that will grab readers from page one as the fall into Evelyn’s world. It almost feels like you are her cheerleader following her along and telling her she can make it that somewhere, someway, something will work out. This novel is a must read for lovers of contemporary, romance.
Rated PG: some adult content mentioned, cheating on a spouse, loitering of government money
Review copy of the book was provided by the publisher via RadiantLit.
https://radiantlit.com/review-change-...
Rated PG: some adult content mentioned, cheating on a spouse, loitering of government money
Review copy of the book was provided by the publisher via RadiantLit.
https://radiantlit.com/review-change-...
September 10, 2016
I didn't love the first book in this series, so I was hesitant to read this one. I'm so glad I did. I loved the characters in the small, quirky community, but I absolutely loved Evelyn. She was so timid and somewhat annoying at first, which is what made her transformation so beautiful. Trevor is also a great character.
I felt the author did a great job of balancing Evelyn's healing with the romance. It was a wonderful story, and I'm so glad I read it.
I received this book in exchange for my review. My thoughts are my own.
I felt the author did a great job of balancing Evelyn's healing with the romance. It was a wonderful story, and I'm so glad I read it.
I received this book in exchange for my review. My thoughts are my own.
October 10, 2025
This book made me cry, and I think its because I in a weird way related to the main character. I say weird because 1. I have never been married. 2. I've never had a husband that has cheated on me and embezzlement money. 3. I haven't had a man pining after me for the last 15 years. I can relate to her in the fact that I feel like I am always trying to do the right thing and life still seems to fall apart, and since I am in one of those falling apart seasons, this book hit me hard. Courtney always does a great job and I love reading her books, but there were a few things that drove me crazy about this book. 1. She kept referencing some past traumas of the characters but never got into details. 2. Trevor's self-loathing was a little over the top and his inability to communicate drove me nuts.
February 24, 2018
This book was amazing. It really showed that those of us who are Christians, can incur trials, that we definitely have to work through. I thought it was amazing that it not only Inc. second chances but the storyline kept us hooked from the very beginning to its conclusion. It was an amazing love story. And if any of you wish to friend me on Goodreads that read similar books to this I welcome you to do so.
July 16, 2017
Ben Gönül İşi Gönüllülerini okumayı çok seviyorum.Dolayısıyla bu kitabı da okumak ilk kitap kadar zevkliydi.Fakat keşke kavuşmaları için kitabın son sayfalarına kadar beklemeseydik.Açıkçası onların sevgili hallerini de okumak isterdim :)
November 17, 2022
This second in the Paper Hearts Series grabbed my interest in the opening pages and didn't let go. I would have preferred this to be a Women's Fiction novel rather than Contemporary Romance though. Love the three meddling ladies of the town.
May 30, 2025
Love this story!! A much-needed reminder that sometimes surrendering our hopes and dreams to God is just what He's waiting for us to do. Even when His plans aren't what we originally wanted, they are always for our good and His glory.
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