I hate to cry but sometimes you have no choice but to let it happen. Especially when an author tells a story that breaks your heart.
A new to me author, this release is going to tug those heartstrings hard… but there is a happily ever after to make up for it. Continue on for my full review.
Disclaimer: Affiliate Link
Maybe It’s Fate by Heidi McLaughlin
Publisher: Montlake
Publication date: April 1, 2026
ISBN-13: 978-1662537363
OVERVIEW:
The only thing that could pull Antonia Bernardi away from her high-powered career is her lifelong best friend. And with two children and a cruel prognosis, Miriam Vaughn needs her now more than ever.
Antonia drops everything―her job, her relationship―to be there for the Vaughns. Playing mom to Miriam’s teenage son and seven-year-old daughter is a tall order made heavier by grief. But the kids need her, and she needs them.
Then there’s the boy’s coach and mentor, former MLB star Weston Schmidt. He’s a pillar of support, a safe space for Antonia to rest. But there’s too much going on to even think about romance … or maybe that’s exactly why they should.
Adjusting to life without her best friend, Antonia leans into her new role as guardian, doing work she loves and repairing the old farmhouse Miriam cherished. Nothing can stop the world from spinning―but Antonia has every reason to keep on going.
Maybe It’s Fate by Heidi McLaughlin Review
What would you give up for your best friend?
That is the question of the moment when Toni life changes in a heartbeat. No question, she is on the way.
That is how this story starts, and while there is plenty of reason to shed a hundred tears, the author also includes plenty of light and reason to find the beauty in life.
McLaughlin has created a story that broke my heart a few too many times, but then she turned around and healed it in several sweet, loving ways. Between the kids and the wonderfully supportive coach who has become a male figure they cannot do without, life has a way of healing enough to let love in through the cracks.
Maybe It’s Fate is a book you simply cannot read without tissues, but it is so worth the emotional journey. Definitely reading this author again!
5 STARS!!
Disclaimer: Affiliate Links have been included – Chris has personally reviewed the product listed above. She has not received any monetary compensation for her review, but did receive a free ebook so she could evaluate and use it for this post. Her thoughts & opinions in this review are unbiased & hones,t and your opinions may differ.
Hi! I’m Chris! Just a Midlife Wife sharing about life’s journey; screaming and kicking through it while supposedly aging gracefully…
Focusing on healthy living, low carb & keto, things I am loving right now, and life in general.