Book Review: Heart Like Mine by Amy Hatvany

When a young mother dies under mysterious circumstances, those she leaves behind begin looking for answers in the past—and find a long-buried secret they could have never imagined.Thirty-six-year-old Grace McAllister never longed for children. But when she meets Victor Hansen, a handsome, charismatic divorced restaurateur who is father to Max and Ava, Grace decides that, for the right man, she could learn to be an excellent part-time stepmom. After all, the kids live with their mother, Kelli. How hard could it be?

At thirteen, Ava Hansen is mature beyond her years. Since her parents’ divorce, she has been the one taking care of her emotionally unstable mother and her little brother—she pays the bills, does the laundry, and never complains because she loves her mama more than anyone. And while her father’s new girlfriend is nice enough, Ava still holds out hope that her parents will get back together and that they’ll be a family again.

But only days after Victor and Grace get engaged, Kelli dies suddenly under mysterious circumstances—and soon, Grace and Ava discover there was much more to Kelli’s life than either ever knew.

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My thoughts: When I read the synopsis of this book I was very intrigued, I couldn't imagine not wanting to be a mother and then in an blink of an eye becoming a full time stepmom. That would be a huge adjustment. This book is told through the eyes of both Grace and Ava with flashbacks into Kelli's life growing up. We learn about why her parents disowned her and what troubled Kelli into the mental state she was in. I wont get into details about the plot as you will want to read it yourself but it is a great read. I loved how well the book flowed back and forth between each character. Ava is an old soul, having to grow up so fast when her parents divorce and she takes care of her mother who is struggling with so much loss in her life.

I loved Grace's character, she is a strong, independent, career woman who works in a shelter for woman. When she meets Victor it was like a dream come true.Victor is a successful restaurant owner who has two children that visit 2 weekends a month and he doesn't want to have anymore children. They hit it off right away and get comfortable in the life they have planned. I think Grace handles the situation of becoming a full time stepmom very well under the circumstances.

I give this book a 4 stars. It is a great book of love, bonding, courage and helping family through rough times. I look forward to reading more from Amy Hatvany.