Beautiful romance

When I read the first book in this series, If For Any Reason, I fell in love with the setting. Walsh does a fantastic job putting her readers right in the middle of sandy beaches and seaside cottages. You can’t help but find yourself completely immersed in the quant Nantucket community.

Is It Any Wonder is a romance full of truth, heart ache, and hope as Louisa and Cody wrestle with their childhood connections and a painful event. Shame follow them and it creates a constant barrier between them. Once they learn to move on, their story really begins.

This was a comfortable romance that held all the right elements to keep me engaged and entertained each time I opened the book. I would recommend this to anyone who just needed an escape for a couple of days.

**I was given a copy of this book from the publisher through NetGalley. A review was not required but freely given. @courtneywalsh

#review #newrelease #romance #christfic #nantucketisland #secondchancelove

Is it Any Wonder by Courtney Walsh

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars

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Story Notes

Courtney Walsh brings readers another marvelous Nantucket Love Story that deals with loss, love and finding your way home again.

Courtney Walsh is definitely aiming at the heart with this latest story taking place in Nantucket. Louisa Chambers is an event and experience planner for the Island and loves to make special moments in other’s lives even better with the perfect setting. Her young business has finally begun to hit it’s stride and gain the needed reputation to bring people to her instead of her needing to seek clients out. And the fulfillment she finds in her every day tells her that she is just where she is meant to be. Too bad her parents and ex-boyfriend can’t seem to understand that. If they would only take her dreams seriously, they might see that she’s happy and doesn’t need anyone else to direct her life. But there is sadness that lingers in Louisa’s soul over the loss of her best friends’ dad 12 years before that caused Cody to disappear from her life. Louisa feels she is to blame for what happened and nothing she does seems to lessen the pain of that loss. So, she pushes the dark thoughts to the back of her mind and works hard to make others’ lives brighter. But the past never stays behind for long and the pain will be shoved back into Louisa’s focus again with the appearance of her former best friend, Cody Boggs. Coast Guard Executive Petty Officer Cody Boggs has been stationed on the last place he ever wanted to be again – Nantucket Island. It holds both the best and worst memories of his life and was the place of his father’s accidental death – a death Cody is responsible for. His first training outing with the team comes with a scary task: rescuing a swimmer being pulled out to sea. Finding it impossible to remain on-board ship when he knows he can safely rescue the swimmer, Cody disregards procedure and dives right in. Returning to the ship with the unconscious woman, he prays he is not too late. Thankfully, the woman coughs up the intake of sea water and regains consciousness quickly, revealing the last person Cody ever wanted to see again – Louisa Chambers. Hoping he can return her to shore and go back to his life without future interactions, Cody ensures Louisa is taken to the hospital to be checked out. But they will be spending more time together than he wants because his Master Chief is looking to boost the CG image on the island and has designated Cody to work with Louisa on a morale campaign. While both of them see the merits of this idea, neither Cody nor Louisa want to relive the pain of the past. However, if they are going to move beyond the past, they will have to face it and forgive each other for what happened. And as they work together on the campaign, they will discover that the friendship they once had is still there, and a chance for something more if they are brave enough to reach for it. This book was such a heart-wrencher but in the very best way. The pain, angst and loss was so very strong for both Cody and Louisa and I found myself recalling the pain of my own losses in empathy. They lost so many things with the death of Daniel Boggs and neither of them had really dealt with any of them. I was so glad to see that Ms. Walsh let them work through all the aspects of those losses in the pages of this story. It gave the story depth and gave me a great connection to the characters. I also loved the rough but beautiful romance that grew between them. It was not perfect in any way other than they ended up together but that’s what made it strong and real. Louisa and Cody had to work through their own assumptions, pain and emptions and each challenged the other to become better people. When their first kiss in twelve years finally came, wow! was it a good one. Ms. Walsh put it at the perfect moment and I did a happy dance when I read it. I was so glad to see good finally come through all the hurt and that they were going to take a chance on a future together. I will certainly be recommending this story to others and hoping they will find it as wonderful as I did. I will also be adding a physical copy to my shelves because I already want to read it again.

I received this temporary complimentary (free of charge)E-book from Tyndale House Publishers in order to provide a fair and honest review. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.

I LOVED this book! I’ve read many of Courtney’s books, but there was something captivating about this story - I couldn’t stop reading. My favorite part is how the element of forgiveness was woven through the story and how each character learned what that needed to look like in their life. There were several times when I wondered what could possibly happen next? It was almost suspenseful. I loved how she describes Cody’s mysterious expressions and Louisa’s internal conflict.

Is It Any Wonder by Courtney Walsh is book 2 in the Nantucket Love Story Series. This book is a testament to the solid writing of the author. Full of raw, gritty emotions, it is clear that the author has a deep understanding of them and is able to explore them fully and realistically. While it is definitely emotionally resonant, this book is also not dark or depressing. That is a difficult thing to balance but it is done brilliantly in this novel. Full of hope in the face of tragedy and second chances as well, Is It Any Wonder will keep you fully engrossed from the very first sentence on page 1. I could not recommend this book more. It is a phenomenal novel that will be enjoyed by readers of women's fiction and sweet romance. I received a digital copy of this book from the publisher with no obligations. These opinions are entirely my own.

Bestselling author Courtney Walsh returns with another Nantucket-based inspirational contemporary romance.

In Is It Any Wonder, event planner Louisa Chambers and Coast Guardsman Cody Boggs were childhood friends and first loves until tragedy tore them and their families apart twelve years ago. When Cody is assigned to the Nantucket base, he doesn’t expect to run into Louisa. When Louisa and Cody are forced to work together on a community event, they have to face the past. Will they find a second chance at love, despite the things that tore their families apart?

Walsh is known for her inspirational romances that are more than just a lightweight beach read. She pens realistic characters with flaws, descriptive narratives, and intriguing back stories. Cody and Louisa are still attracted to one another. They learn the truth about the tragic accident that affected their families — and their future. Themes of bitterness, regret, grief, forgiveness, and grace permeate the story. The faith element is an intricate part of the storyline, but it is not heavy-handed. The story revolves around the impact of sacrificial, unconditional love, as well as the ripple effects of a tragic accident that drove two close families apart.

Recommended for adult collections in public libraries, especially for fans of inspirational contemporary romance like those by Courtney Walsh, Becky Wade, and Denise Hunter.

Disclaimer: Book reviews are my honest opinion of books I either purchased or received free of cost from the publishers, publicists, and/or authors. I am not required to write reviews, nor to even post positive reviews.

Walsh has once again written a deep and thought provoking book full of characters you'll fall in love with in the beautiful Nantucket.

I love this book so much. I've read it twice now and am struggling to word a review.

With themes of redemption and forgiveness and reconciliation this book delves into the lives of Cody and Lou and their families.

This book grips you from the first chapter and never lets go. I always love Walsh's characters because they are super relatable. I see aspects of myself in her books. I also love that they always have realistic flaws. Neither Cody not Lou are perfect, but they show tremendous character growth in this book.

I have to admit I spent much of this book swooning over Cody. Like I said - he isn't perfect - but he is pretty wonderful. The romance in this book is perfect.

I loved the little bit of mystery Walsh threw in too. It didn't overpower the book but provided a good opportunity for Cody and Lou to move on in life.

I cannot say enough good things about this book. It will live on my electronic keeper shelf.

I received an advanced copy of this book from the publisher. This is my honest review

This was a wonderful story. I really enjoyed the characters and settings. I’m looking forward to reading more by Ms. Walsh.

HJ Top Pick!

Is It Any Wonder is the second book in the Nantucket Love Story series, but reading it as a stand-alone was no problem. This was a new-to-me author and I was astonished by how emotional and beautifully written it was. Lately, second chance romance has seemed boring to me with a repetitive theme, but this story was unique and memorable. It was a heart-wrenching story of childhood friends, tragedy, broken friendships, community support, and forgiveness.

Cody Boggs and Louisa “Lou” Chambers had known each other since birth and even shared the same birthday. Their parents were best friends and every summer the families returned to Nantucket Island to spend together. They had a tradition of going to Brant Point Lighthouse on July 30th, their shared birthday, and exchanging birthday wishes. As they grew older their friendship developed into love and the summer after they graduated high school, they made a pact that on their thirtieth birthday they would return to Brant Point Lighthouse to reconnect. Unfortunately, before the summer ended, tragedy struck and Cody’s dad, Daniel, drowned creating a falling out between the two families.

After several years, Lou moved permanently to Nantucket and started her event planning business, The Good Life. She loved making people happy, and her job allowed her to share her love of Nantucket Island with others. One morning while out paddleboarding the weather suddenly changed, pulling Lou out to sea and endangering her life. Newly stationed to Nantucket Island’s Coast Guard, Cody manages to rescue her. Lou has spent years regretting her actions and Daniel’s death. Lou hopes the big birthday party she is throwing for the dying Maggie, a close friend to both families, will help mend the rift between the two families.

Cody did not want to be transferred to Nantucket Island and relive the tragedy of that summer, but he was needed to help build morale for the team and strengthen the link between the Coast Guard and the community. He is put in charge of working with Lou to plan a fundraiser to strengthen the relationship between the base and the community. He found himself wanting to know everything about this version of Lou. He admires her openness and genuine goodness. His discovery of his father’s memorial leads him to question the past. Neither of them knew the real reason behind the two family’s conflict. But can the truth destroy the fragile relationship they have rebuilt?

This was such a touching story from the beginning. The characters were genuine and their emotions so intense. My heart went out to them in sympathy for all their losses. They each coped with the tragedy differently, Cody had built a wall around his heart and kept everyone at a distance. He had allowed anger and bitterness to guide his life and he finally realized that his father would not have wanted that for him. Lou spent her time helping people and making them happy, hoping to eventually make things right for everyone. I really loved this book even though I cried the entire time. It is certainly one of my favorite books that I have read this year. I look forward to reading future books from this amazing author.

“One choice a future makes” is a quote from Shadows, another book spelling out the consequences of poor decisions. And this book has many bad decisions causing the pain and trauma the characters endure. But Is It Any Wonder is not a sad book. And the story of Louisa Lou to her friends) Chambers and Cody Boggs will both frustrate a d delight you. This cozy will keep you entertained an leave you smiling.

A sweet yet deep story of second chances and forgiveness from Courtney Walsh! Is It Any Wonder will inspire and touch readers in many ways. I did find parts of it to be repetitive, and emotionally it was a bit slow, but I really enjoyed Walsh’s writing and the characters she brought to life. Fans of Becky Wade and Denise Hunter won’t want to miss this story! 3.5/5 stars

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

Cody Boggs was a tough nut to crack. I wondered if he'd ever drop his cold, distant demeanor and rekindle a romance with his teenage sweetheart, Louisa. When he finally does - wow.

But until we get there, there is plenty of tension while both Cody and Louisa - as well as their families - alternatively avoid and try to come to terms with the death of Cody's father, a beloved father and family friend.

There's a lot to mull about holding onto anger and being stuck in the past. There's also a bit of a mystery as to events preceding the tragic death and the role each character played that lend intrigue to the romance. The relationship between Louisa and the elderly woman who had been a friend them all plays into the story as well and depicts a lovely intergenerational relationship that's both humorous and touching.

Is It Any Wonder is a page-turning, tensioned-filled (in the best ways) second-chance romance.

Is It Any Wonder was an easy read. I’ve read most of Walsh’s books and this newest one didn’t disappoint. The story line pulled me in from the beginning and had me on the edge of my seat through the entire book. Looking forward to the next one!

The sweetness of second chances comes to life in this poignant tale. Courtney Walsh writes with a punch and this story exemplifies that. Louisa is full of life and passionate about all things, most especially her best friend, Cody. Well, used to be best friend. The book hints at tragedy and secrets that tore them apart until an accident thrusts them, literally, back together. They each believe a version of the truth they have been allowed to believe and find themselves coming back together in an effort to find the truth. I love their chemistry and unrequited love. They have a lot to overcome to share their golden birthday and the current of grace and forgiveness runs strong throughout. I highly recommend this clean, contemporary, beach romance. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher through NetGalley and all opinions expressed are my own, freely given.

"Don't take away the power of the sacrifice he made by doubting it or wishing it away. The alternative means that you don't get the life your father died for you to have. You owe it to him to live it big and full. Not to stay stuck here in shame and guilt."

Is It Any Wonder is a powerful, heart-wrenching story of love, loss, and forgiveness. Don't let the beautiful setting of summer in Nantucket fool you, this book will take you on a Spiritual roller-coaster ride of emotion. Two families, split apart by great loss and the ripple effects of choices made, unforgiveness, and the root of bitterness. Choices that led best friends, and more, to be ripped apart and the difficult path to forgiveness when time is allowed to go by. Each of these characters has a story to tell, and it's a story you'll want to hear! Beautifully written, exquisitely cast, and perfectly executed...Is It Any Wonder is a book you don't want to pass up!

I received a complimentary copy of this book through NetGalley from the publisher. All opinions expressed are my own.

At first glance, this story is just former high school sweethearts finding themselves back together with 12 years of living in between them. But, as the story progresses, so much more is unpacked and I found myself turning pages quickly to uncover more.

The story of forgiveness and love these two walk through resembles every day life beautifully. Forgiveness is one of the most difficult gifts you can offer to another, but it changes your own life. Cody and Louisa and a cast of characters, namely one sweet old lady named Maggie, climbed past their pasts to discover their futures could be bright again.

A wonderful story not to be missed!

I was given the opportunity to review this story and all opinions are my own.

This was a beautiful book of love, tragedy, forgiveness and second chances, and what an amazing story it was. I've read quite a few of Ms. Walsh's books but this may very well be my favorite. My emotions were all over the place. This author has such a talent for bringing to life the characters and all of the deep feelings and struggles they are going through. I could barely put this book down and am now on a book-hangover. :)

This was a sweet story of a second chance romance, but ultimately about so much more. Forgiveness was a major theme throughout the novel and seemed to resonate with all of the characters in some form or other... forgiveness of others and/or forgiveness of self. I appreciated the fact that although it was a christian novel, it wasn't overly religious or too "in your face" with the biblical content.

Louisa and Cody were best friends and each other's first love until they experienced a rift that left them with traumatic results. They haven't spoken in years and Louisa is shocked to learn Cody has returned to town for work. They are forced together in a professional capacity and must figure out how to navigate their relationship going forward and if it's able to be restored.

Walsh has the unique talent of writing clean romance without moving into the "cheesy" category. Her characters are relatable in their struggles and relationships. *As an aside, without giving away any of the plot, I do wish there would have been a trigger warning indicating sensitive issues one of the characters dealt with as it is a very real problem and something I'm familiar with on a personal level.

Thank you to NetGalley and Tyndale House Publishers for the ARC of this book in exchange for my honest review.

I enjoyed reading Is It Any Wonder, the second book by Courtney Walsh that’s set during summer on the charming island of Nantucket, Massachusetts. In a similar vein to the first Nantucket book, If For Any Reason, the story is a second chances romance that reunites childhood friends who are separated by tragedy and family secrets.

Louisa’s parents and Cody’s parents were best friends who vacationed together in Nantucket every summer until the year Cody and Louisa turned eighteen. They grew up spending their shared July 30 birthday together and never dreamed their lives would split in different directions. The teens, who shared their first kiss on their sixteenth birthday, made a pact to meet up in Nantucket to celebrate their shared thirtieth golden birthday. The summer Cody’s father passed away ended the Nantucket tradition and shattered the close relationship between the two families.

Louisa is an only child who struggles with her strained and distant relationship with her parents. She is a dreamer with big ideas and she’s now living in Nantucket, building her concierge business, and determined to prove the naysayers wrong. She’s still haunted by memories of Cody and the summer his dad died. Louisa has never forgiven herself for the role she played in Cody’s father’s death.

Cody’s moving up the ranks in the Coast Guard and has been transferred to Nantucket, the one place he doesn’t want to live. He carries a load of guilt from the loss of his dad and the life changing implications on him, his mom, and his sister. Cody wrestles with his fear of the ocean and he is stunned, on his first day on the job in Nantucket, to discover the woman he dives in and rescues is his first love, Louisa.

Cody and Louisa are both weighed down by a ton of emotional baggage and unanswered questions about what really happened during that summer twelve years ago when they lost Cody’s dad. Their friendship is slow to defrost, and being thrown together through their work adds more complications and questions from the past that fuels their simmering mutual attraction.

Maggie, an old family friend in Nantucket who’s like a mother to Louisa, is a delightful character who is the catalyst to bringing about the hope for reconciliation. I loved experiencing the beach setting and the relaxing pace of life on the idyllic island with the characters. Louisa zipped around the island on her Vespa and introduced me to lobster rolls (yum!) and coconut milk lattes with stevia – a combination I’m not planning to try, lol. Each to their own.

Cody and Louisa are challenged to pull down their emotional barriers, seek forgiveness, and discover if true love can conquer all the obstacles and secrets from their shared history. I enjoyed journeying with the characters on their long and winding path to forgiveness and new beginnings. I recommend Is It Any Wonder to contemporary romance readers who like fun beach romance reads with a subtle faith element and themes of forgiveness and second chances.

This is a beautiful love story, one that starts as young kids, and ends at their golden birthday.
There is such a range of emotions to this read, the love and caring for an elderly woman, Maggie, spunky to the end.
Then we have a young woman who is quickly heading to her golden birthday, she has an event planning company, and is excellent at doing her job. Her friend and co-birthday guy is now a member of the Coast Guard, and he also excels at his job.
What happened to these two, so many years lost? So much pain, loss, heartache, and they need forgiveness.
A beautifully written story of young love and loss, and faith, and giving to others in need.
An inspirational page turner, filled with surprises that I never saw coming. You don't want to miss.
I received this book through Net Galley and the Publisher Tyndale, and was not required to give a positive review.

"Don't take away the power of the sacrifice he made by doubting it or wishing it away. The alternative means that you don’t get the life your father died for you to have. You owe it to him to live it big and full. Not to stay stuck here in shame and guilt."

What a powerfully moving book steeped in pain, regret, and grief yet so overwhelmingly lit with hope, grace, forgiveness, and reconciliation. Courtney Walsh does raw emotions so well and this book runs the entire length of human emotions - from life-shattering grief and pain to life-changing grief, from tender unconditional and sacrificial love to heart-stopping romance, from bitter brokenness and anger to acceptance of healing forgiveness. The plot flows well without any spots that drag or feel rushed, the characters are deeply layered and incredible, the faith element is beautifully woven into the characters' lives, and the setting of Nantucket is breath-taking. Anyone who enjoys contemporary romance will love this book.

I loved Cody and Louisa. Cody is the stoic, focused Coast Guardsman who's returned to Nantucket, though the island only holds nightmares and tragic memories. Louisa is the bubbly, creative, kind concierge event planner who's trying to make up for her past mistakes. They and their families have a long history which get unwrapped one piece at a time via flashbacks and reminiscing conversations. It's fun that they share a birthday and knew each other so well during their growing up years. It's double fun to see who they have grown up to be and to watch them complement and support each other. My favorite characters, though, had to be Daniel - Cody's deceased father - and Maggie. Though Daniel is a character built on Cody and Louisa's memories, he's such a solid rock of loyalty, faith, strength, love and grace. Maggie is an old neighbor-friend who is generous with her love, on point with her wisdom, unafraid to speak truth in love. We all need people like Daniel and Maggie in our lives. There’s even a bit of mystery that Cody and Louisa get to solve which adds another layer to regret and need for forgiveness into the plot.

I received a copy of the book from Tyndale House Publishers via NetGalley and also via Edelweiss/Above The Tree Line and was under no obligation to post a positive comment. All opinions are solely my own.