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.