Reviews with content warning for Death of parent - What You Wish for

What You Wish For is a book about growth, grief, and bravery. It takes itself as seriously as it needs to, but leaves room for levity and joy throughout.

I have yet to be disappointed by a Katherine Center book! This is my third book by her, and they’ve been consistently excellent. I think now that I have a grasp on how her balance of romance to non-romance, I have a decent idea of what to expect from her books. This book was exactly what I wanted it to be! It was funny, but sincere. It dealt with real-world issues in a way that felt approachable and authentic to the characters. Did I guess all of Duncan’s secrets? Yes. But this isn’t a mystery novel, so I have no problem with that.

I will say that I started with the audiobook, but enjoyed it a lot more once I switched to the physical book. I’m not sure if it was just me getting used to the voice of Sam, or that I didn’t vibe with the narrator, but I preferred the physical book.

The characters were great, the story was interesting, and the pacing kept me reading. 4 stars.

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booknerdxo88's review against another edition

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funny hopeful inspiring reflective fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? Plot
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.5

This is my first Katherine Center book, and it definitely won't be my last. This novel has a lot of heart and was an enjoyable, cozy read that made my heart happy.

There were quite a few times where I was giggling like a young school girl. Especially when Duncan was high on pain killers, and Sam was dancing around like an imbecile. With that said, it took quite a while for Duncan to grow on me. He was way too serious and some of his comments about teachers irked me. Of course that all changed, and my heart broke for this man. I also loved the representation in this book. The FMC has epilepsy and the MMC has scars from a tragic event.

What You Wish For is a book about working through your past traumas, forgiveness, and grief. I love how Katherine touched on some heavier and (unfortunately) relevant topics, but it wasn't an overwhelmingly sad book. There is joy and happiness along side those heavy emotions. I will say at times this book hit a little too close to home since I'm an educator. One of my biggest fears is experiencing what Duncan experienced while at work. So, be sure to check out the TW/CW below.

PS: I loved that this book was set in Galveston, TX. I live roughly 45 minutes away and enjoy going to Galveston.

TW/CW(SPOILERS): School Shooting, Gun Violence, Death, Grief, and Panic Attacks

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caribbeangirlreading's review

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TW: This is a book about a school principal OBSESSED with school security.

I know that Katherine Center could not have foreseen the school tragedy in Uvalde, but she wrote this book after the shooting in Santa Fe High School in 2018. Did I mention that Santa Fe High School is in Galveston County? Yeah, NOPE. This feels irresponsible. I never DNF book club books, but I refuse to read this triggering book.

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thrillofthepage's review against another edition

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emotional hopeful lighthearted fast-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? No
Flaws of characters a main focus? Yes

4.25

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sleeson's review against another edition

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adventurous hopeful inspiring lighthearted medium-paced

Plot- or character-driven? A mix
Strong character development? Yes
Loveable characters? Yes
Diverse cast of characters? Yes
Flaws of characters a main focus? It's complicated

4.5

This is such a magnificently heart warming book to start off in the new year. The narrator for this audiobook was absolutely perfect. Sam was such a funny, lovable and silly character. I hope there is a part 2 to this book. Mild swearing. No sexual context. Looking up more books by this author ASAP!

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