THE WISHING SEASON by Denise Hunter

PJ McKinley has a dream of opening her own restaurant with a Bed and Breakfast. That is as much her dream as proving to her family that she's capable of doing it. Cole Evans is a contractor who wants to help foster kids. Being one himself, he wants to give those turning eighteen a solid footing before being sent out on their own. When a long time resident of Chapel Springs decides to donate her family's home to a worthy cause (one that will benefit the Chapel Springs community) both PJ and Cole enter the contest. Since both are worthy causes, the house's owner decides to give each of them a chance to shine. They must live in the house together, for one year, on different floors, and see how their ideas pan out. After the year is complete, the owner will decide who gets the house. Each wants to win the house, but as the day to day routine sets in they find themselves deeply attracted to one another and even helping each other out. Before too long, they both realize there's more than the house at stake in this friendly competition, their hearts are on the line as well.

The Wishing Season is an excellent story. I've read all the Chapel Springs stories so far and have loved them all, but I think this one is my favorite. Starting with the unusual way that PJ and Cole meet, to the electric energy that sparked between PJ and Cole. PJ was someone who was strong yet unsure. She so desperately wanted to prove herself to her family. Cole was someone who grew up with a lot of grief and guilt. Yet his love and care came shining through. I love the way the author, through the voice of Mrs. McKinley, encourages us to trust God even when we don't understand why things happen they way they do. It's always a great reminder. You could read this as a stand alone and enjoy it, but I would recommend reading the the previous books first, "A Barefoot Summer", "Dancing with Fireflies", to really enjoy the background and family dynamics. I thoroughly enjoyed my trip to Chapel Springs and I'm sure you will too. Now I'm looking forward to "Married 'til Monday" due out June 2015.

*This complimentary copy was provided by Thomas Nelson through NetGalley in exchange for an honest review*

For more information about this book or other books by Denise Hunter, I encourage you to visit her website at http://www.denisehunterbooks.com