I was captivated and wondered along with the main character if the end is near. Louisa Chambers cannot believe she’s in this predicament. She knows better.…” Apparently being faced with the end of one’s life resulted in” ..”A deep dive into all the things she’d been successfully avoiding. As if there weren’t more important things to be thinking about. Like staying alive.”…”A list. Okay? Things to do seemed a bit pointless given her current situation”. …” Things I wish I’d done in my life. A bucket list made moments before my impending death.” “I wish I’d worn a life vest..I wish I’d checked the weather forecast. Etc.”

Louisa was fun to get to know and so was Cody Boggs. I adored this story. It made me laugh, cry and everything in between. The survival story being faced with living in the here and now got me too. Grandma knows her time for this world was short and asks help from Louisa and Cody to clean up her things. So, when Louisa and Cody start sorting, they uncover secrets that change their perspective on past events. Nothing could have prepared them for the impact this would have on everyone they knew and what they thought to be true, turned out to be something totally different. What a great story of family, healing, hurting, and discovering true love.

This is a great story of second chances, facing fears, love, and the pursuit of happiness. This is a heart-warming novel with flawed characters that seek answers to hard questions. I liked their journey and how the author handled Louisa’s struggle and Cody’s sensitivity was sweet. These characters jumped off the page and into my heart. I have never been to Nantucket but reading this story makes me want to go.

Reading Louisa and Cody childhood flash backs gave a depth to the bigger picture in this story, it was a delight to read. I also enjoyed reading about the pack they made with each other to meet on this island for their golden birthday. Would they make it? Or was it just a kid fantasy. This is a delightful story and one that would work well for your book club. I had no idea this was book two in a series. It reads as a stand-alone.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have received a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org

I always love picking up a Courtney Walsh book. There's just something comforting in knowing I'm in for a fabulous read. Is It Any Wonder delivers on everything I love about Christian romances. Faith, chemistry between characters, wonderful character arcs, and interesting settings. The mystery woven into this story had me addictively turning the pages.

Romance, clean, contemporary; Christian faith elements
Louisa/Lou and Cody's story, entangled in their past, and their families past, was masterfully told. Themes of faith, and forgiveness weigh heavily in this novel. It is a Romance too though, as they have shared a young love in the past that was so much a part of their lives growing up, and the tragedy that separated them as young adults leaving home after graduating from high school.
A mistake of Louisa's, and near tragedy brings them together, and as they are put together through various events and circumstances, their hearts open to each other again.
C.W. knows how to write troubles without them becoming so overly dramatic to be unbelievable in this novel. This is the perfect addition to this series. The sweet tender hearts, the angst and worry with all the family issues and personal issues, and of course, their working through their pasts to have the chance for a beautiful future and heal from the past.
Gorgeous, more of a 4.5 for me as a reader, but the flow was so perfect. I couldn't put it down, and it stayed with me long after I finished reading. Perfect characters, emotions, side characters, lovely setting, and just so well done. Highly recommend.
I received an ARC from the publisher via NetGalley in exchange for a fair and honest review. My opinions are my own, and in no way influenced by this gift.

“That is one hunky Coastie. You sure are a lucky girl.”
“Right. Lucky.”
“Have you seen that man without all his gear on? I think you were pulled out of the water by a Greek god.”

Emotional, powerful, romantic, and swoony all at the same time would best describe the beauty of this book. The opening line was gripping and I was totally swept away by the storyline and sweet romance of this couple. My heart broke for all they had to overcome, but the reunion was healing and hopeful , and made for a realistically beautiful romance. I really didn’t know how they were going to overcome the odds. Walsh is a masterful storyteller who kept me hooked from beginning until the very last page.

“Will the cloud ever go away? Will it always hang here, a sad reminder that the choice of a foolish girl could impact so many lives, destroy so many friendships?”

In this childhood friends who thought they’d be together forever to romance story there is so much to overcome in order to find their happy ending. However, as they learn to forgive and remember the depth of their friendship, Cody and Louisa will steal your heart… I know they stole mine. With so many swoony moments, you’ll be catching your breath like I did.

“He’d trained for this. He lived for this. To keep the sea from stealing souls—that was the goal. And he didn’t like to lose.”

I was given an advanced reader copy of this book through NetGalley by the publisher. All opinions are my own and are given honestly.

Another great story written by Courtney Walsh. I have enjoyed each book I have read by her. She really develops the characters well and her stories are so realistic. I love the faith aspect in her writing. The story is set in Nantucket and makes me want to go there and experience this area of our country. I find I always want to go to the places she writes about. She is very descriptive about the characters and the places they live.
Thanks to netgalley and the publisher for an advanced copy.

Is It Any Wonder by Courtney Walsh is a modern day story based on Nantucket Island. Louisa and Cody were childhood friends that lost track of each other after the death of his father. She has returned to Nantucket and is an activities coordinator. Cody is now back working for the Coast Guard.

This is a sweet story of friendships, family, secrets, and forgiveness. I really enjoyed this story. It seems so realistic with the struggles Louisa and Cody work through following tragic incidents. I really liked the elderly lady Louisa is helping and the truthfulness of trying to clean out an elderly person’s home. What really stands out to me in this story is how gambling additions affect more than the addict, and how hard Cody’s family’s life was after the death of his father due to his generosity to help friends.

I voluntarily read a complimentary copy of this ebook, this is my honest review.

I was trying to wait on this book because I knew it would be a good one. It was so worth the wait!
But, anyway I finally got to read it and to me, it was so worth the wait!
I like anything written by Courtney Walsh. I feel that she writes realistically and does her characters feelings' with expertise.
Louisa and Cody were a team from day one. I liked how they handled things as they came their way. Sure they had their ups and downs but that's what I liked about this story.
My favorite part? The story was set on Nantucket Island a place I've read and heard about so much that I want to visit someday. I feel that I've already " been" there. Such a beautiful place.
I didn't want to say goodbye and I love love a good story that will make you want to reread it again

There’s just something about a good book—one that drags a reader in, puts their heart through the wringer along with the characters, and then leaves the reader so incredibly satisfied with the outcome. Cody and Louisa are quite a pair. As young summer sweethearts they make a pact to meet up, no matter where they are, on their beloved Nantucket for their golden 30th birthday (I even had to look up the concept because I’d never heard of it, and I’m sad I didn’t get to acknowledge my own!). After years of separation due to past hurts and betrayals, life throws them together again just in time to snatch their happiness right back. The only key to finding a happy ending is forgiving each other, themselves, and others in their lives—not a simple task! There were moments of joy, deep peace, sadness, and pure forgiveness that made this book so incredibly worthwhile. I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley and was under no obligation to write a review.

Another cute story set in Nantucket with a grandmother figure, a setting that draws you in and wonderful characters. Can't wait to read the next book in this series!

Cody and Louisa were born on the same day and they grew up together as best friends whose parents were also best friends. Each year they had a ritual of meeting on the beach to share their lists of five wishes for the next year. In their mid-teens their deep friendship grew into something more. It seemed idyllic until one day something horrible happened—Cody’s dad drowned while rescuing Cody. This book is set years later and deals with all of the fallout from this terrible event. It was such a powerful story of dealing with secrets, anger, bitterness, guilt, and forgiveness. I feel like it contains such a strong message that we need in the world today—how do we deal with our righteous anger in such a way that restoration can take place and healing can happen? Whew! I pulled out my hanky more than once but the story was not a downer. It was filled with wisdom and hope and a beautiful romance that was fought hard for. It left me feeling so touched and inspired. Highly recommend! I was entrusted with a copy of this book by the publisher and my voluntarily-given review contains my honest opinions.

Louisa and Cody shared summers through their childhoods, shared birthdays, and thought they'd be sharing their lives - until things fell apart. Now, with their 30th birthdays approaching, they're back together in Nantucket, the place where it all started. Together - but not. Cody saves Louisa's life, but while they're both on the island, the barriers between them seem enough to stop anything happening, however much they might each secretly wish it at times. As they spend time together working on a regatta and secrets gradually come to light about the tragedy that drove them apart, can there be hope for the future?

With great writing, an interesting story, likeable and at times quirky characters, an intriguing bit of mystery and strong themes of forgiveness, this book has it all! I was hooked from page one and found it hard to put down. A very satisfying story with a lovely ending. I'm really looking forward to future books set on Nantucket Island (I hope?). Highly recommended.

Note that I received a complimentary copy of the book from NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review and this is my considered opinion of the book.

Is It Any Wonder by Courtney Walsh is the second book in the Nantucket Love Story series. Louisa and Cody’s story is a story of atonement, forgiveness, and second chances. It is unique, original, and entertaining while being genuine, raw, and heart-wrenching. You will feel a vast array of emotions while you journey through the past with Louisa and Cody all the while having the opportunity to experience the beauty and magic of Nantucket.
Louisa is wonderful. Beautiful, creative, and a habitual space cadet, it wasn’t difficult to fall in love with her right away. I can’t count the times I laughed out loud at the thoughts spinning in her head--especially the ones about a certain member of the Coast Guard. I wish I could tour Nantucket with Louisa as my guide, creating her magic as only she can do.
And Cody. Oh, Cody. It’s been a while since I’ve fallen this hard for a fictional hero. (Although, I’ve always had a thing for the brooding hero.) He’s a bit grumpy. A bit tight-lipped. But when you get a glimpse of him--the real him--it’s golden. He’s hunky, yes, but it’s the gradual softening of his heart and his honest view of Louisa that stole my heart completely. Cody is the Coastie with the Mostie! (Sorry, I couldn’t help myself!)
Bottom line: read this book. Let yourself fall for the characters, feel all the emotions, and love every minute. Any fan of contemporary Christian fiction will LOVE this story.
I was given a copy of this book by Netgalley with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

I confess, I’ve only read a couple of Courtney Walsh’s books so far, despite the fact that I’m immediately drawn in as soon as I start one. I finally sat down to read If For Any Reason and absolutely loved it, so when I saw this one was set in Nantucket as well, I couldn’t resist! Though this book ended up being a hard read for me, I still greatly enjoyed it.
One of my very favorite things about Ms. Walsh’s books is how authentic the characters are - and how they become dear friends of mine by the end. I loved getting to know Louisa and Cody, through their messiness and pain, laughter and memories. Louisa is so kind and bubbly, often thinking of others and wanting to love them well. Cody on the other hand doesn’t really seem to like people at the beginning of the story. He’s withdrawn and focused on atoning for his father’s death. I greatly appreciated the kindness and gentleness with which the author handled the topic of grief. My own father actually passed while I was about halfway through this book, and I almost didn’t finish it right now. But I’m glad I did, as there were several truths I found that encouraged me amidst everything happening in my life.
I do have to say, if you’ve lost a loved one, specifically a father, I would recommend having tissues nearby. This story is beautifully written, but also heart-wrenching at moments. And some of the best wisdom comes from Maggie Fisher, who I just adored. If I had to choose a favorite character from the book, it would probably be Maggie.
Honestly, my only negative comment is that the ebook lied to me! It told me I should’ve had more pages, but there’s an excerpt at the end! So in my mind, this book ended much too soon!

*My thanks to the publisher for my copy of this book! I was not required to write a review, positive or otherwise, and have not been compensated for it in any way. All opinions expressed are my own.

I did not want this book to end! The second installment in Walsh's Nantucket series - although each can be read as a stand alone - was outstanding. Walsh is one author who seems to improve with each and every novel. From start to finish I was hooked as the intense emotional dynamics of the characters reached a head. An expert storyteller, Walsh is able to convey such a depth of emotion and truth that I cannot help but be fully involved heart and soul. Her characters are genuine, her plot thoughtful and romantic, and the story moves at a pace that holds you fast.

A beautiful story, one of forgiveness, reconciliation, and enduring love. I am sure you will be as captivated as I was!!

I received this book from the publisher. All opinions are my own.

Is It Any Wonder is a book I didn’t really want to finish. And couldn’t put down. This book is a triumph.

The story of Cody and Louisa resumes when he returns to the island as part of his coastguard duty. The two had been in each others lives since infancy, sharing every summer on Nantucket Island. Until a terrible accident tore them apart.

As Cody inadvertently jumps into Louisa’s life again the two navigate the tricky waters of their past while trying to promote the work of the Coast Guard to residents.

The book deals with family secrets, love, loss and forgiveness with a delicate yet powerful touch. As lessons are learned, hearts begin to heal. But just as Cody and Louisa start to find their way home to each other, could another shocking revelation keep them apart.

As ever, Courtney Walsh was fully in command of my reader emotions and made me hurt when they were apart and feel the warm fuzzies when they were together. This book makes me want to get on the ferry and hang out at the beach on Nantucket Island, just in the hope of meeting one of the characters.

Courtney Walsh has penned another fantastic story set on Nantucket Island and filled with forgiveness, mercy and hope. Poignant and heart-touching, this tale of second chances features many endearing, realistic, and broken characters who need one another’s forgiveness and understanding. Due to a tragic accident, two families are torn apart and require God’s healing comfort in their lives.

When Cody Boggs reluctantly returns to Nantucket, he doesn’t expect to encounter Louisa Chambers, his first love. As they spend time together, they try to unravel the secrets concerning their two families.

Walsh is a master at creating emotional depths in her stories and also adding inspirational threads that give added meaning and dimension. Forgiveness and healing are very strong themes in this beautiful tale.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from Tyndale through NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

"But when you love someone, you are their biggest cheerleader, a champion of their dreams."

My mind immediately swept away to Nantucket's beaches and into this story starring Cody and Louisa in Courteney Walsh's new novel. There are great characters, delicious romance, and wild adventures, along with Nantuckets charming town that I now really want to visit!

It's a lovely read, a multi-layered story with reminders of our need to live lives of reconciliation and forgiveness, second chances, and plain "down-home love." The kind of love that is sacrificial and unconditional, with a heart that remains open despite wrongs done.

Courtney Walsh is a new author for me, but I'll be on the lookout for more from her! I recommend this to anyone who loves inspirational romantic fiction. My thanks to NetGalley and the publisher for this, my honest review.

Every once in a while I'll pick up a book, and by the end of the first chapter, feel like I'm sitting down, chatting with an old friend. And in this instance, my old [new] friend was Louisa from Is It Any Wonder.

Louisa doesn't know it yet, but we're totally BFFs. Word on the street is, I've already been invited to her wedding. I might even get my eyebrows done to celebrate the occasion!! And... it should be mentioned that it's only because I value our friendship that I'm not plotting to steal her man.

In all seriousness, I lost a lot of sleep reading the last 30% of this book, but I don't regret a single missing wink. I just want to read it again.

I really enjoyed this book! I would not really consider myself much of a fan of the romance genre, I mean, I don't mind it sometimes but typically I find them to be pretty cheesy. That is not the case with a Courtney Walsh book! She just writes such beautiful, true-to-life, relatable characters.

Both Cody and Louisa have their flaws and issues they have to work through, but this is just a beautiful story of redemption, forgiveness, reconciliation, loss, love, and friendship.

I was intrigued from the very beginning and it kept me interested until the very end. Even though I figured out a couple of the plot points, I was anxious to find out how it was all going to come together. And I wasn't disappointed!

The only negative thing I can say about this book is that it felt like it needed another page or two at the ending! It just felt like it ended a bit abruptly. Or maybe I just wasn't quite ready to let go of the characters.

This is a story I won't soon forget and one I would definitely recommend!

I received a complementary copy of this book from Tyndale through Netgalley. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Have you ever read a book that just touched you so deeply, you almost have to digest it when you finish? That's how this book was for me. This story grabbed me from the very first chapter and it did not let me go. It was truly a beautiful story and the author did an incredible job with each aspect of the book. I'll be recommending this one for years to come. A definite must read and reread for me.
Louisa and Cody both had such depth to them. Louisa loved so powerfully that she felt the need to please everyone and keep/make them happy. Cody was a little bit grumpy, but it never bothered me. In fact, in a way it made his character just that much more relatable. I understood the why behind how these characters ticked and my heart was so invested in their journeys.
The chemistry was so strong throughout the book and there were many incredible moments I found myself not only genuinely cheering for their second chance to work out, but I definitely swooned a few times (and maybe a few more than few).
This book was inspiring. It was never preachy, but man was it heartfelt! I loved the role forgiveness played in the plot and found myself moved to tears a couple of times by the tragedy and hurt these characters faced as well as their peace when they did learn to forgive and let go.
I cannot recommend this book enough! It will stay with me, I felt so much goodness while reading it.
I received an ebook advance reader copy of this novel, but am so impressed that I will be purchasing a paperback copy as this is a must have for my shelves. All thoughts and opinions are my own.