***I received this book for free in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.***
When a woman alone in the world bravely chooses to open her heart, two lost souls have a new chance at belonging, in this intimate novel from #1 New York Times bestselling author Debbie Macomber.
A new beginning in charming Oceanside, Washington, is exactly what Hope Godwin needs after the death of her twin brother. There are plenty of distractions, like her cozy cottage with the slightly nosy landlords next door, and a brewing drama among her students at the local high school.
Even having settled quickly into the community, Hope still feels something is still missing. That is, until her landlords convince her to volunteer at their animal shelter. There she meets Shadow, a rescue dog that everyone has given up on. But true to her name, Hope believes he’s worth saving.
Like Shadow, shelter volunteer Cade Lincoln Jr. is suffering with injuries most can’t see. A wounded ex-marine, Cade identifies with Shadow, assuming they are both beyond help. Hope senses that what they each need is someone to believe in them, and she has a lot of love to give. As she gains Shadow’s trust, Hope notices Cade begins to open up as well. Finding the courage to be vulnerable again, Cade and Hope take steps toward a relationship, and Hope finally begins to feel at peace in her new home.
But Hope’s happiness is put to the test when Cade’s past conflicts resurface, and Hope becomes embroiled in the escalating situation at the high school. Love and compassion are supposed to heal all wounds, but are they enough to help Hope and Cade overcome the pain of their past and the obstacles in the way of a better future?
The Best is Yet to Come by Debbie Macomber is a sweet story of redemption and growth, that I just loved. Debbie Macomber is one of my favorite authors, and this latest book of hers did not disappoint.
Hope Goodwin needs a new start after losing her twin brother. She moved to Oceanside, Washington in hopes of making a new start. She gets a job at the local high school as a teacher. Her landlord convinces her to volunteer at a local animal shelter in order to meet people and keep busy. At the shelter, Hope meets shadow, a dog that appears to be irredeemable, but for some reason, Hope is the only one who Shadow accepts, as she takes her time with the emotionally wounded dog, they become fast friends.
Hope also meets Cade, another volunteer at the shelter, who has a stormy past and is as emotionally wounded as Shadow. He just wants to be left alone and try to atone for his past. He can’t help but notice Hope and how her kindness is helping Shadow. But, women like Hope don’t go for guys like Cade. Or do they?
I really enjoyed this hopeful book about redemption and hope. The side story of the high school kids was a nice addition to Hope and Cade’s story. I loved the dog in the story and how even the dog was working to overcome a difficult past. The book deals with grief, PTSD, mistakes, and so much more. It’s a beautiful romance full of emotion and a lovely sweet romance.
The pacing was just right, as I would expect from such a seasoned author. The romance was a slow burn, but satisfying and sweet. The author does a wonderful job of dealing with such tough topics with empathy and understanding.
I highly recommend The Best is Yet to Come to anyone who enjoys romance and women’s fiction. I received a complimentary copy of this book. The opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
About Debbie Macomber
Debbie Macomber is a #1 New York Times bestselling author and one of today’s most popular writers with more than 200 million copies of her books in print worldwide. In her novels, Macomber brings to life compelling relationships that embrace family and enduring friendships, uplifting her readers with stories of connection and hope. Macomber’s novels have spent over 1,000 weeks on the New York Times bestseller list. Thirteen of these novels hit the number one spot.
In 2021, Macomber’s all-new hardcover publications include It’s Better This Way (July) and Dear Santa (October). In addition to fiction, Macomber has also published three bestselling cookbooks, an adult coloring book, numerous inspirational and nonfiction works, and two acclaimed children’s books.
Celebrated as “the official storyteller of Christmas”, Macomber’s annual Christmas books are beloved and five have been crafted into original Hallmark Channel movies. Macomber is also the author of the bestselling Cedar Cove Series which the Hallmark Channel chose as the basis for its first dramatic scripted television series. Debuting in 2013, Debbie Macomber’s Cedar Cove was a ratings favorite for three seasons.
She serves on the Guideposts National Advisory Cabinet, is a YFC National Ambassador, and is World Vision’s international spokesperson for their Knit for Kids charity initiative. A devoted grandmother, Debbie and Wayne live in Port Orchard, Washington, the town which inspired the Cedar Cove series.
I like that the UK cover has a dog on it. Shadow plays an important part in the story, so I thought it was nice to see him on the cover of the UK version.
Book Challenge:
The Best is Yet to Come, counts towards my 20 Books of Summer 2022 Challenge.
Have you read The Best is Yet to come? Which cover do you prefer?
Reading this book contributed to these challenges:
I also love Debbie Macomber and am on the list at the library for this book. I love the sound of this beautiful story and like that Shadow plays an important role. I agree, the UK cover is wonderful. Great review, Wendy.
This sounds really good. I love books that deal with heavy topics like PTSD, grief, and mistakes. I also love that it’s a romance to give the story some fluff. I’ve heard that Debbie Macomber is the female Nicholas Sparks, meaning that there’s always a main character or someone close to the main character who dies.
I also love Debbie Macomber and am on the list at the library for this book. I love the sound of this beautiful story and like that Shadow plays an important role. I agree, the UK cover is wonderful. Great review, Wendy.
Thank you for sharing! I so appreciate your reviews!
I haven’t read Debbie Macomber for a while but I think this is one I’d enjoy. Nice review, Wendy.
Great review! This sounds like one I would enjoy!
Lovely review, Wendy. I love that so much of the story is surrounded on the relationship with Shadow. This sounds a must read for me
I have seen this one around and it does seem like a good read. I’ve actually never read anything by Debbie Macomber. My bad indeed.
Lovely review Wendy!
Elza Reads
This sounds really good. I love books that deal with heavy topics like PTSD, grief, and mistakes. I also love that it’s a romance to give the story some fluff. I’ve heard that Debbie Macomber is the female Nicholas Sparks, meaning that there’s always a main character or someone close to the main character who dies.
i love small town romances! thank you for the lovely review, wendy! i’ll be adding it to my tbr.
I live her books, great review!
Or love if I could spell 🤭
This sounds very uplifting, great review 💕
This sounds like something I would like. Adding in the rescue dogs just seals the deal.
I have yet to read her books. This one looks like the perfect one to begin with.
I received my Audible copy this week and I look forward to starting it Wendy! Great review!
I enjoy sweet romances especially when they feature animals! Sounds like a win!
I agree,animals make a book better almost every time.
Wonderful review Wendy. I’m hoping to get to this very soon.🤗📚💗