Unfortunately I didn't enjoy this book as much as I thought or hoped that I would. I think for me I really just didn't connect with either of the characters. They weren't bad or anything, there was just nothing about them that I could really relate to.

I felt like Emma and Jamie fell in love way too quickly. It was like instant romance with too much thinking about feelings, then the "big secret" drags on forever (like a little bit longer than I thought it should have). There were a lot of moments that could have been better utilized (like how CJ didn't feel like he really fit into the story. He was just there when it was convenient for a cute moment but most of the time he was just an afterthought. And I liked Emma's relationship with her in-laws, but their conversations about faith were just glossed over and not well used.)

And maybe this is just me, but while the theme of forgiveness is prevalent throughout the book, I did find it odd that Emma seemed to really want Jamie's forgiveness for what she'd done. Especially since she didn't do anything to him. I mean, they needed to work through it but she didn't need his forgiveness, just his acceptance. Meanwhile, Jamie really did need Emma's forgiveness, so that part was played out well.

So while I really enjoy other books by this author, this particular one just wasn't for me. I would instead recommend the Harbor Point series!

What Matters Most is a cute story of forgiveness and starting over. Emma and her young son CJ are starting over in Nantucket nearly 6 years after CJ's father Cam dies in combat. Since Cam's death, Emma has put her life on pause, merely existing instead of actually living. When Jamie shows up in her front yard in response to a remodeling ad, Emma's life begins to slowly turn around. As Jamie helps Emma to remodel her garage apartment, the two of them begin to realize how much they have in common. When feelings begin to develop, both Emma and Jamie must decide whether to reveal their biggest secrets that could change their relationship forever.
This story reminds me a bit of The Lucky One by Nicholas Sparks. Similar to Logan in that story, Jamie comes to town in search of Emma, hoping to reveal the secret he has been holding on to. After meeting Emma, he continuously puts off telling her the truth hoping for "the right moment". The romance in this story is a bit of a slow burn. The first half of the book is lots of "locking eyes" and "brushing hands". Once Emma and Jamie start to admit their feeling for each other, not much else happens. They seem to be a very boring couple. Both slowly begin to rediscover their love of art and push each other to take the next step in their artistic careers. When the "big reveals" happen, there is the predictable conflict that challenges their relationship. Can they overcome the other's major shortcomings or will the truth tear them apart?
While there are a few cute moments here and there, Jamie and Emma's relationship kind of fell flat for me. I didn't feel the attraction/chemistry that you normally would with a romantic story. While the themes of forgiveness and growth were very well conveyed, the romance was a little lackluster. As a Christian fiction novel, the Christian themes were present but not overly saturating. There were several perfect opportunities for spiritual conversation between Emma and her in-laws but they were kind of glazed over and not utilized well.
Overall, I considered this book to be just "meh". I didn't dislike it but it isn't one that will stick with me. If you like the plot and the "deep dark secret" trope then I think you should give this one a read. It just wasn't my cup of tea.

What Matters Most is a multi-layered romance based on secrets. I enjoyed the characters of both Jamie and Emma and the depth of brokenness reflected in them. The setting of Nantucket was quaint. Both characters carry a burden of guilt and for one of them, the forgiveness they were shown in the past ends up being an important touchstone. Sometimes, it seems impossible to forgive oneself. Walsh's readers will enjoy returning to Nantucket for another sweet story with a beautiful faith element and some hard-hitting character choices in the past that cause them to really cling to who they were.

It was a treat to return to Nantucket Island in Courtney Walsh’s new book, What Matters Most. The setting is gorgeous and enticing, the characters are realistic and engaging, and the writing evokes all the emotions. Emma Woodson is trying hard to get her life back and become independent several years after her husband is killed. Jameson Shaw is trying to absolve himself from guilt from his past involving Emma’s husband. Will their secrets destroy their growing relationship?

Walsh is a master at bringing out all the emotions in her writing. I know I’ll be in for some heart-wrenching and some heart-stopping when I pick up her books. I would recommend this tale to those who enjoy clean contemporary romance. 4.5 stars

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

I have long loved Courtney Walsh's books, and What Matters Most was a delight to read!

I loved the deep back-story here, and I felt the emotion of both Emma and Jamie - it was hard for me when I wanted to take either of their sides when there was a conflict between them! I loved to see them both pursuing their vocational passions together, as well! It was really beautiful.

It missed a star for me because I didn't love the CJ storyline. It didn't feel authentic that CJ could just go to a near stranger's house for overnight activities or when Emma wanted to go on a date. In addition, I didn't feel there was full closure with the paternity issue. But overall, highly recommend this one!

Thank you to Tyndale House for a copy of this book via the Net Galley platform. The opinion in this review is entirely my own.

'What might it feel like to lay down all her regrets and move forward?'

For years now, I've enjoyed Courtney Walsh's books. They have always managed to capture my heart. Her ability to evoke such emotion is stunning. But this one. Ahh, this one was completely profound. Walsh has woven together two individuals who have been living with misplaced guilt for years. Neither thinks they deserve happiness.

Walsh plumbs the very depths of emotion in these two people in this story. Her very best work, in my opinion. Not to be missed and definitely one for the keeper shelf. Well done!

My thanks to Tyndale House for a copy of this book via the Net Galley platform. The opinion in this review is entirely my own.

This was my first Courtney Walsh book, and I am excited to read more! What Matters Most was a light, easy read but with deeper themes of grief, regret, and forgiveness. It was predictable but not boring. I loved the characters. I loved the story of forgiveness, accepting it and giving it to yourself. The author doesn’t talk down to the reader or over-explain the backstory, which I appreciate!

WHAT MATTERS MOST by COURTNEY WALSH is a beautiful romance novel in which we come across two broken people, each with a crippling secret which threatens their relationship. It is a story about second chances, the importance of forgiveness and the restoration of life and joy which comes from letting go of the heavy burdens of the past, especially guilt. Both Jamie and Emma feel they must work to merit God’s forgiveness, and Emma feels she does not deserve to be happy. I like the way Emma’s father in law, with his strong faith in God, takes Emma under his wing and teaches her about the Lord, and I like the way Jamie’s outgoing sister, Hillary supports her brother.
Emma is mourning her husband Cam who died in action in the Congo and is feeling guilty about her last words to him. After five years, with the help of her friends and for the sake of her son CJ, she makes a list of things to do in “The Year of Emma”, one of which is to start painting again.
Jamie has suffered from PTSD for five years and has given up his photographic art.
I love the characters, the sensitive and understanding way the author describes their feelings, and the great Christian message running through the book.
I highy recommend What Matters Most as an enjoyable and inspirational read.
I was given a free copy of the book by NetGalley from Tyndale House Publishers. The opinions in this review are completely my own.

Every time I read a new Courtney Walsh book, I think it is her best yet. Well, this one is right up there too.
I truly loved that this story was not your typical romance trope. It really was a different type of story.
The setting of Nantucket was perfect for this story, and Emma and Jamie were remarkable characters who each had so many talents.. I also loved that there were mature Christians in the story that spoke truth to them.
If you'd enjoy a unique story that deals with guilt, secrets, grief, dreams, love and atonement, then this is the book for you.. And the ending is fantastic!
Thank you to NetGalley for allowing me to read this book. The opinions are entirely my own.

God is so gracious and compassionate towards us all, giving us second chances. We need to be reminded of all these things in us and in others, and give others a second chance in many ways. This book was such vivid reminder of this grace towards us.