What You Wish For by Katherine Center
Katherine Center has become an author I’m looking forward to. Ever since her 2018 release How to Walk Away I’ve been reading her books as soon as they become available.
SYNOPSIS
Samantha Casey loves everything about her job as an elementary school librarian on the sunny, historic island of Galveston, Texas—the goofy kids, the stately Victorian building, the butterfly garden. But when the school suddenly loses its beloved principal, it turns out his replacement will be none other than Duncan Carpenter—a former, unrequited crush of Sam’s from many years before.
When Duncan shows up as her new boss, though, he’s nothing like the sweet teacher she once swooned over. He’s become stiff, and humorless, and obsessed with school safety. Now, with Duncan determined to destroy everything Sam loves about her school in the name of security—and turn it into nothing short of a prison—Sam has to stand up for everyone she cares about before the school that’s become her home is gone for good.
What You Wish For by Katherine Center
MY THOUGHTS
I was told that reading Happiness for Beginners would help me understand Duncan better, and I must say I’m glad I read it first. JUST TO be clear, Reading HFB is not a requirement. The author’s books are standalone novels. And the only reason why it was suggested to me was because Duncan’s backstory is part of HFB.
One of the things I love the most about Katherine Center is her unique way of writing characters that are always relatable, lovable, and full of joy and zeal.
Samantha was utterly enjoyable. She had a big heart and was full of passion and love for her job, and the school that became a second home to her. She was vibrant, cheerful, and incredibly down to earth. Her and Duncan’s story was heartwarming, and uplifting. Although, Duncan was on my naughty list for some time, but he redeemed himself midway through the book. I also thought, that Samantha and Duncan knowing each other, worked really well for this particular story. It gave additional depth to the book, and a shared history to built on.
It’s not surprising that the book tackled topics that were interesting but also totally unexpected. It also didn’t take me long to tear up at one particular heartfelt scene. There were actually many scenes that were so well done that I wanted to applaud the author for working her magic in a very gracious and compassionate way.
I ended up reading the book in one sitting, during a time when concentrating on new books has become quite hard. What You Wish For was an easy and fast read. Thoughtful. Emotional. Enjoyable. It was a novel about loving yourself as you are, finding the joy in small things, and enjoying life to the fullest.
MY RATING:
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I received a copy of this book from St. Martin’s Press for free.
My opinions have not been influenced by the publisher or the author.
What You Wish For by Katherine Center
Well it’s thanks to you that I read this one as I recall reading your reviews for her other books Corina!
I’m glad you found her!! Although my most favorite is still How To Walk Away, her books have become highly anticipated novels each year.
Good to know this was another great book by Katherine Center. I’m going to read this next week.
It was sweet and very joyful, with some emotional scenes, which is expected, it didn’t quite reach the love I have for her last two books, but it was a good addition 😀 Hope you’ll enjoy it!!
Wait… So Happiness is for Beginners is related to this book? I didn’t know that. You made me wish I would have read that one first! I’m going to have to go back and read it now.
The guy, is the brother of the heroine in HfB and his personality was so different at that point. It really helped seeing him how he was BEFORE.
Ah, I get it!
Same rating, I really enjoyed it. It was a builder for me, wasn’t sure at first but it grew.
Some books are just like this – they grow and sometimes sneak up on me – getting unexpectedly better 😀
So glad you enjoyed this one. Next on my list 😁
I did enjoy it, but not quite as much as her last two. I think it was a bit too sweet for me and didn’t have quite the punch I’m used to from the author, but nevertheless it’s a great read. Enjoy the book and I can’t wait to read your review. 😀
I just purchased my first book by her last month (haven’t read it yet) but I kind of really want to read this one!! I haven’t read anything by her yet!
YAY!!! If you like it a bit sweeter read this one first, if you enjoy an emotional punch read How To Walk Away first, and Things You Save in a Fire falls somewhere in between 😀
Awesome, thank you! I actually have How to Walk Away right now! So, I might just start with that, since I own it. LOL 🙂
Awesome, thank you!! I actually have How to Walk Away right now. I should probably start with that one since I own it! haha. 🙂