Overview

The story’s message, that people should choose joy even (and especially) in difficult and painful times, seems tailor-made for this moment. A timely, uplifting read about finding joy in the midst of tragedy, filled with quirky characters and comforting warmth.”—Kirkus (starred review)

From the New York Times bestselling author of How to Walk Away comes a stunning new novel full of heart and hope.

Samantha Casey is a school librarian who loves her job, the kids, and her school family with passion and joy for living.
But she wasn’t always that way.  
Duncan Carpenter is the new school principal who lives by rules and regulations, guided by the knowledge that bad things can happen. 
But he wasn’t always that way.  

And Sam knows it. Because she knew him before—at another school, in a different life. Back then, she loved him—but she was invisible. To him. To everyone. Even to herself. She escaped to a new school, a new job, a new chance at living. But when Duncan, of all people, gets hired as the new principal there, it feels like the best thing that could possibly happen to the school—and the worst thing that could possibly happen to Sam. Until the opposite turns out to be true. The lovable Duncan she’d known is now a suit-and-tie wearing, rule-enforcing tough guy so hell-bent on protecting the school that he’s willing to destroy it.

As the school community spirals into chaos, and danger from all corners looms large, Sam and Duncan must find their way to who they really are, what it means to be brave, and how to take a chance on love—which is the riskiest move of all.  

With Katherine Center’s sparkling dialogue, unforgettable characters, heart, hope, and humanity, What You Wish Foris the author at her most compelling best.

Review

Duncan has taken over as principal for a private school in Galveston, Texas. Sam knows Duncan from a previous place she worked. She is amazed at the change in him. He has done an about face. He is no longer the carefree, fun teacher she once knew. He is rigid and petrified.

This is not my favorite Katherine Center book. I had a hard time at the start of this read. Duncan did something and it totally turned me off (you have to read it to find out). He did something no principal would have ever done. And if he did…he should have been fired on the spot! So, it took me a little to start to enjoy this book and to get past that. What helped was Sam. She is everything a school librarian should be. She made this book! Then, there is a little boy named Clay. He stole the show at the end of this tale. I adore him! And last, is the setting. Oh Galveston! What an amazing place to set this story. We went several years ago and it is perfect for this read!

This is a story about overcoming weaknesses and allowing yourself to grow, to not be stuck with old hurts and damages. I know….easier said than done. But, Katherine Center pulls you in with good characters and as a reader you just want what’s best for everyone!

I received this novel from the publisher for a honest review.

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