It has been a long time since I have read a whole book in a day. It’s been a really long time since I’ve read a book I just couldn’t put down, that gripped me from the start, that kept me turning the page, even when I had laundry to do and supper to cook. My Stubborn Heart by Becky Wade was that book for me this past weekend.

Wade’s debut Christian novel tells the story of Kate Donovan, a single woman who travels to Redbud, Pennsylvania with her grandmother to orchestrate the renovation of the family homestead. Matt Jarreau is the man hired renovate the house, and he has baggage. Lots of baggage. Matt is an ex-hockey player who can’t get over the death of his wife. It is only through Kate’s stubborn persistence that he begins to open up and feel again.


It is difficult to explain how much this book affected me…stayed with me. The pain and hurt in Matt’s heart was palatable and I could feel Kate’s empathy and growing love for him. There were moments when I would find myself holding my breath, listening for Kate’s words of encouragement, waiting to hear Matt’s heart speak, anticipating the moment when the two would connect on an emotional and spiritual level.

Secondary characters played a big role in the book and made for some comic relief. It reminded me of the movie Return to Me, with a group of seniors hanging out with the young couple, having fun, being merry, and being a HOOT! Loved these seniors!

The romantic tension between Kate and Matt was FABULOUS (yes, there were definitely some swoon moments!) and they were paced in a satisfying way. Seriously, this was a romantic book. Well done. Satisfying in every way.

I have to tell you, the characters stayed with me for quite awhile. I think it was because the author did such a great job in getting into the character’s mind and heart, going deep, delving into the dark parts. She didn’t just tell about their inner selves, she showed it in every gesture, thought, action, glance. It was brilliant.

Normally, I do a giveaway with my book reviews, but I am keeping this one. It’s too good to give up. I’m sorry! But you can go HERE to purchase it! I highly recommend it!

ABOUT MY STUBBORN HEART:

*I received a copy of this book from Bethany House Publishing Group in exchange for my honest review.