What Matters Most
by: Courtney Walsh
Tyndale House Publishers

With a beautiful Nantucket setting and strong main characters, Emma and Jameson, What Matters Most is an absorbing contemporary romantic fiction book.

Emma, a young widow and mother, comes to Nantucket with her little boy to rebuild her life. The renovation of her late husband's family cottage, along with her new art gallery job, keep her motivated. Meeting Jameson was an expected surprise for her, but they share a love of artistic expression. Self-discovery, grief, and post-traumatic stress disorder blend with a romantic component for a beautiful and heart-felt tale.

I love the theme that art plays in the book, drawing these two wounded souls together as they move forward in healing and revealing of secrets. In her very character driven narrative, Walsh reveals rich layers of both Emma and Jameson's identities. Getting to know them and in return, caring for them both, made this a very rewarding read for me.

Thank you to Net Galley, Tyndale House Publishers, and Uplit Reads for the advance reader's copies and opportunity to provide my unbiased review.
#WhatMattersMost #NetGalley

What Matters Most is the third Nantucket Love Story book, but can definitely be read just fine as a standalone.

There are certain books that really live up to the idea that 'you can't judge a book by its cover', and this one was certainly one of those. Looking at the cover, one might expect that this was simply a light hearted summer romance. In reality it is so much more than that. This is one that will have you reaching for the tissues, while also keep you swooning at the romance too.

I must admit, at times I was a little unsure about the romance between Emma and Jamie. First, it was definitely a quick one. Typically that doesn't bother me at all, but I think in this particular case because Emma was still so heavy in the grief for her husband, I questioned it a bit more. Likewise, they had a pretty major obstacle to overcome, and I wondered if it was truly possibly to overcome it quite the quickly... but then, that's the joy of a good romance--- they don't really have to be what we might expect, and truthfully no one ever knows how falling in love will happen. Though my head questioned a few things about the story, I found myself all in and completely invested in this story, and ultimately really enjoyed every last minute.

If you enjoy a good romance, this is certainly one to check out.


**I received a complimentary copy for consideration. All thoughts are my own.

What Matters Most
by Courtney Walsh
Pub Date: April 5, 2022
Tyndale
Thanks to the author, Tyndale, and NetGalley for the ARC of this book. I have read Walsh's books but never a novel. I found this an emotional, contemporary read which I really enjoyed.
Emma Woodson is hoping the cobblestone streets of Nantucket and the charm of her late husband's family cottage will be the fresh start she and her young son, CJ, need. Securing a dream job at an art gallery is one more step along the path to a new life . . . and away from a piece of her history she hopes will never be revealed. Falling in love with the kind and handsome guy she hires to clean out the rental apartment above the garage wasn't part of the plan.
This book is filled with angst, forgiveness, and secrets.
4 stars

This was a rather tough read for me. I loved the setting of Nantucket, that’s what initially drew me to the story. The main characters both did stunts that hurt people. I never really could warm up to Emma. I tried, I really did, but I never came to like her. The major theme is forgiveness and that happens quite a bit, but as a reader. I personally wrestled with it.
It’s a poignant read, but it left me conflicted.

What Matters Most was a great contemporary romance story. I felt like it had more depth than other contemporary novels and it was emotional at times to read.

I really liked Jamie. His character was one that I felt so badly for and you could just feel his sorrow/grief for what had happened. The romance story was good; although, it was a little too much for me at times.

All in all, What Matters Most was a good read and I really enjoyed reading it.

*Disclosure of Material Connection: I received one or more of the products or services mentioned above for free in the hope that I would mention/review it on my blog. I was not required to give a positive review, only my honest opinion - which I've done. All thoughts and opinions expressed are my own and I only recommend products or services I use personally and believe will be good for my readers. 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.*

What a good book. A lovely story filled with loss, betrayal, regret, guilt, and shame, along with forgiveness, grace, and redemption. At times it felt a little heavy and sad, but I love how Emma and Jamie work through their struggles to find peace. The storyline moved along well and the overall feel of the book was positive. It is another well-written, heartfelt, emotional story that Courtney Walsh is known for.

Thank you to Tyndale and Net Galley for the opportunity to read and review.

#BookReview: WHAT MATTERS MOST by Courtney Walsh

I am glad to be back in Nantucket. A few things were mentioned of the place but this book focused more on Emma’s story. And let me tell you that it was heart wrenching. My eyes were puffy by the time I finished the book. I want to say that I am not a fan of the cover.

The story started well with Emma wanting to move on in a new place. She met Jamie and there was physical attraction though a bit lacking in chemistry. I liked that they were both artistic. It would be fun to see their exhibits.

I really wanted to know the backstory but it took a long time for Jamie to tell the truth. But I am glad I continued reading. The revelation was heart wrenching. Then there was a twist that made things more emotional for Emma.

It was quite a journey to their HEA. Guilt, PTSD and forgiveness were in the way. They had a lot of things to sort out. I enjoyed the friendship formed by military families. I liked Jerry’s character and his faith in God. They were amazing people. I am also happy that Emma and Jamie’s faith got stronger later.

I guess I liked books that make me cry. My rating went up by the second half of the book. The confessions and reactions felt raw and relatable. It’s not your ordinary love story.

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐
Pub date: 05 Apr 2022

Thank you Tyndale House Publishers and netgalley for the complimentary copy. All opinions expressed are my own.

I hate to say this, but I am a little disappointed! Courtney Walsh is one of my favorite authors and I was thrilled to get to read this early. But first, it felt a little too “insta-love” for me. I like to see a slow progression of a relationship, not just physical attraction. I also felt like I couldn’t really connect with the characters until the very end. And the faith was also not prominent until the very end. The end of this book redeemed it because I felt raw emotion come through the writing. My favorite thing about this book and something Courtney Walsh always does well is her romantic scenes. They always give me butterflies! In general though I skimmed a lot of this. One disclaimer is that i may have felt differently if I read this book in the summer time to match the books setting. Overall just okay and not something ill remember.

I received an electronic arc of this book via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are my own. (

This is an amazing story of redemption, grace, and love. Emma and her son need a fresh start as she grieves. Jameson wants to reconcile for something in his past. When the two meet, sparks ignite. Behind every good story lies tension, and Walsh draws that into this beautiful story of forgiveness. I've read several of Courtney Walsh's books, and this is one of her best. I thoroughly enjoyed seeing Emma grow as a person and take back some of her tenacity as she landed a job she longed for. Jameson is swoon worthy in his kind caring way. And CJ is a sweetheart. If you enjoy heartrending stories and romance, you'll want to read What Matters Most. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

Another wonderful book by Courtney Walsh. A contemporary romance intertwined with a bit of women's fiction to create an emotion filled novel that readers will be sure to enjoy.

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions expressed are mine.

There is so much heart and raw emotion in this story! Both Emma and Jamie carried such heavy burdens of guilt and shame. I love the beauty of seeing healing occur and thrive in the midst of love and forgiveness. It is not easy, but so beautiful when worked out. The role of community is shown very well as Emma struggles to make it as a single mom in a new town. It was also nice to see the role of Emma’s in-laws and Jamie’s sister. We are not an island unto ourselves and this story captures that very well. There are themes of shame, guilt, PTSD, betrayal, lying, forgiveness, second chances, family, and unconditional love that brilliantly display the love of Christ. I kept thinking about Emma and Jamie long after I finished the book, wondering how they were. That’s a telltale sign to me of a good book. I received a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley and all opinions expressed are solely my own, freely given.

Beautifully written story about forgiveness! Both Emma and Jamie struggled with their worthiness to be forgiven as so aptly described by the author. Readers will be moved by their hurt and anguish. I loved the author featuring Cam, his love for his country, fellow soldiers and commitment to serve and protect. Highly recommended!

I’ve just finished this book and I want to sob my eyes out.
Emma’s story is just that wrenching.
This is a story about love and loss. Betrayal, forgiveness, and second chances.
A beautiful, beautiful tale.

This story is once again, a return to the beautiful island of Nantucket. A place I long to visit someday. But...in this book, we don't really get to see much of the island, it is all about Emma and her story.
Emma's a widow, and doing her best to raise CJ her son. She's determined to do everything right, to have her son know his daddy was a hero. But there are some things she'd rather leave hidden in her past.
Then Jamie arrives. She assumes he's the answer to her prayer, answering the ad she placed. Jamie allows her to think that, and sets to work on her apartment renovation project.
And of course, you guessed it...they fall in love.
But, there are so many issues that need to be dealt with. Secrets. Realities needing to be faced.
Courtney Walsh writes characters with heart. And this story almost wrenched my heart out.
When Emma finally is willing to face painful things from the past, then is when healing can begin.

Disclaimer: I receive complimentary books from various sources, including, publishers, publicists, authors, and/or NetGalley. I am not required to write a positive review, and have not received any compensation. The opinions shared here are my own entirely. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255

Solid 3.5 stars
Courtney Walsh once again delivers a wonderfully sweet, satisfying book sure to make her readers happy. She has a way with words and characters that make you want to stay with them long after you turn the last page.

I may have been reading The Fellowship of the Ring lately, as I do most years , and this morning got to a scene featuring Gandalf's fireworks. Tolkien notes that "Gandalf's fireworks [got] better with age"--and that's exactly how I feel about Courtney Walsh and her latest release, What Matters Most. Her writing, and her books, get better with age--and I have loved every one I've read!

Some deep topics come up in this read--PTSD, significant marital issues, survivor's guilt, the challenges of extending forgiveness to oneself and others, and more--and Walsh handles them very well: realistically, thoughtfully, and hopefully, ever weaving the gospel through. I loved how she surrounded Emma with friends, as well; in this pandemic life, where I for one feel parched for normal friendships and (even as an introvert) miss the pre-pandemic ease of community, the book reminds me of just how important it is to surround oneself with quality friends who can speak life and truth into us, and vice versa. #goals

Note: While this is book 3 in a series, I do believe it could be read on its own. I've frankly read enough since book 2 came out, I'd forgotten many details, and didn't feel confused or lost. Hooray!

5/5 stars.

I received an eARC of the book from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

The driving force in this novel is the secrets held by Emma and Jamie, which could be deal-breakers for either of them. The weight of the secrets that hold Emma and Jamie back pervades the whole story and keeps a dark atmosphere over the whole thing and makes it hard to read and stay engaged in the story. For me, I wanted to just say, "Get on with it!"

Emma has a cottage on Nantucket Island that has been in her late husband's family for many years. Over the garage of the cottage is an apartment that she hopes to clean up and get ready for renters to supplement her income. She has newly acquired a job as the assistant to the owner of an art gallery on the island.

Jamie has come to Nantucket to see Emma, mostly to apologize for his role in the death of her husband. Guilt has weighed on him ever since the incident and he's trying to do whatever he can to assuage his feelings. In light of that, he chooses to help Emma refurbish the apartment and does some minor remodeling.

There are a few redeeming parts to this novel--first is that Emma reawakens the artistic photographer in Jamie, and by the same token, Jamie reawakens the water-color artist in Emma. Also there is the love that Jamie develops for Emma's son, CJ.

I have read other books by Courtney Walsh and did not get the overwhelming feeling of darkness in her other books. This one is just a bit off for me. Three Stars.

Tyndale House and NetGalley.com provided the copy I read for this review. All opinions expressed are solely my own.

This was my first time reading a book by Courtney Walsh and it most definitely won’t be my last. A novel that stirred up emotions in me and had me turning pages into the wee hours of the night. The central theme in this story was forgiveness. However, it went deeper than forgiving others but forgiving of one self — which can often be the hardest forgiveness to give. There were quite a few secrets sprinkled throughout the pages and deep grief that needed to be healed. I thought the author did a great job in maneuvering through the different phases of grief with both of the main characters. Although this is “Christian Fiction” novel, it fell a bit short for me. It was more of an afterthought and there was not much “Christian substance”. This might be a way to reach a larger audience though. Overall I enjoyed the book and would rate it a 4,5/5.


I was given a copy of this book from NetGalley and the publisher for my honest review and opinion.

What Matters Most is a beautifully written, heartfelt story about forgiveness. It's also my new favorite Courtney Walsh novel. Of course every time I read her latest work, I make a similar declaration. This time I really mean it! Jamie and Emma are both walking hard paths, trying to move forward but still wrestling with the agony that comes from clinging to mistakes and regrets. I found this story so relatable. The depth of emotion and raw vulnerability the characters experience is so well done. I was moved by Jamie and Emma's struggles and their honest exploration of their feelings. To me, that's the mark of an excellent novel.
The slow burn romance is fantastic and I feel Courtney did a remarkable job with both protagonists' story arcs. It's hard to weave complicated secrets into a plot and make sure readers still want to root for the hero and heroine. I enjoyed the Nantucket setting, the art gallery and photography subplot, as well as the backstories. The secondary characters are well-crafted and add another enjoyable layer to the reading experience. (Travis is a hoot)!
I highly recommend What Matters Most to romance and women's fiction readers who love an uplifting, encouraging novel about forgiveness and second chances. This is one for the keeper shelf. Thank you to the publisher and NetGalley for the complimentary copy. All opinions shared here are my own.

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.