If For Any Reason by Courtney Walsh {A Book Review}

I received a complimentary copy of this book from the publisher via Netgalley for consideration. All thoughts are 100% my own. 

Emily Ackerman has traveled the world, her constant compass and companion a book of letters her mother left for her when she died. With no father in the picture, her mom’s advice has been her only true north. But when professional failure leads Emily back to Nantucket to renovate and sell the family cottage she inherited, she wonders if her mom left advice to cover this . . . especially when her grandmother arrives to “supervise.” And especially when her heart becomes entangled with Hollis McGuire, the boy next door–turned–baseball star who’s back on the island after a career-ending injury.

As sparks fly between her and Hollis, Emily is drawn to island life, even as she uncovers shocking secrets about the tragic accident that led to her mother’s death. With her world turned upside down, Emily must choose between allowing the voices from her past to guide her future or forging her own path forward.

Courtney Walsh is an author, artist, theatre director, and playwright. Just Let Go will be her eighth inspirational romance novel. Her debut, A Sweethaven Summer, hit the New York Times and USA Today e-book bestseller lists and was a Carol Award finalist in the debut author category. A creative at heart, Courtney has also written two craft books and several full-length musicals. She lives in Illinois where she and her husband own a performing arts studio and youth theatre. They have three children.

Connect with Courtney online at her website (courtneywalshwrites.com) or on any of these social media platforms:

Facebook.com/courtneywalshwrites
Instagram.com/courtneywalsh
Twitter.com/courtney_walsh

What a beautiful, thoughtful read this was! If For Any Reason transports us to the island of Nantucket where we meet Emily, returning for the first time since her mother tragically passed away 18 years earlier. Upon her death, Emily finds a book full of letter from her mother, written 'if for any reason' she was unable to offer her advice in person. It is through these letters and lessons that Emily has lived her life, keeping love at a distance. What a beautiful idea this was... the idea of letter from a mother to a daughter. As a mom with a young girl, it certainly tugged at my heartstrings and made me think.

Upon her return to the island though, many questions about her past- her father and her mother's death- leave her wanting answers. Throughout the course of the story, we uncover those truths in such a beautiful way. While I must admit I figured out a pretty key 'mystery' very early on in the story, I couldn't put it down trying to put it all together. I loved Emily's character and it was such a delight to watch her discover herself and what it means to belong as the story progressed. And the romance? Oh yes, it was a great one and I did not want it to end!

I believe this was the first book I have read by Courtney Walsh but it certainly will not be the last. If For Any Reason is a fantastic read... one sure to bring on the tissues!