Behold My Heart

by Ronica Black

A soaring tale of love, resilience, and the power of following one’s heart.

Alora Anders’ paintings are sought after by wealthy collectors worldwide, and up until recently, she’s led the life she’s always dreamed of. There’s only one problem. She’s quickly losing her vision to a degenerative eye disease with no cure. Devastated, she falls into a deep depression, assuming her life is over. Worse, she must hire someone to help her get along in life with her impaired vision.

Bodie Banks is a struggling young artist looking for a new lot in life. When she learns of a job as a live-in caregiver for a well-known artist, she jumps at the opportunity. It might be inspiring to work with a fellow artist. All her hopes are dashed when her new employer, Alora, is rude, angry, and anything but welcoming.

Genres: Lesbian, Lesbian Romance, LGBT

288 pages, Paperback

Published July 15, 2025

About the author

Ronica Black is an award-winning author and a three-time Lambda Literary Award finalist. Her books range from romance and erotica to mystery and intrigue, and she enjoys trying her hand at all. Ronica also enjoys drawing, painting, and sculpting. She lives in Glendale, Arizona, with her partner, where she relishes a rich family life and raising a menagerie of pets.

Reviews

[cloverxheart]

DNF at 46%
I do kinda feel bad for DNFing this one for some reason.
But I didn't enjoy anything about it and I doubt it'll get better in the second half.
The premise sounded so so good but the execution wasn't what I was expecting.
I didn't connect to the characters at all either.

I don't think I'll be picking up any more books by the author.
I've read two and didn't enjoy either.

[Celina]

I didn't really comprehend this. I like Ronica Black and I love Ice Queens if Alora was meant to be one, also I endorse all books about different disabilities. But my ffriend, come on. Alora was shitty. I just couldn't deal.

[Lyn Denison · Rating 4 out of 5]

Lots of emotions swirling about with the MCs and the secondary characters. The characters were well-drawn which wasn’t easy considering the subject matter but you were left with a feeling of hope.

[Sue Plant · Rating 5 out of 5]

would like to thank netgalley and the publisher for letting me read this book

Alora Anders is a sort after painter... her work is renowned but soon she gets the news that is devastating for herself and her self confidence she has a degenerative eye disease and will lose her sight....

when the times comes for her to have help around the house she doesnt cope well with the news but with mutliple accidents she recognises that she does need some form of help

bodie banks her life just hasnt gone the way she wanted.... she helped care for her mom as she was dying and she had helped raise her siblings she hadnt quite finished her art degree and she taught sculptor .... but at the moment she was lost

so when the opportunity came to earn a bit more money looking after her favourite artist she jumped at the chance....

but after the first meeting with alora she wasnt that impressed... and walked away....

but the phone call offering her the job was a surprise what she hadnt expected was to actually like alora even with her prickles and her judgement.....

but life was about to get cruel for alora.... and bodie had an idea if only alora would accept that help

an enjoyable read that kept me reading right to the end....this one had all the moments you want in a book

[Sabra · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’ve read a few of this author’s books, including fanfiction written years ago. I was disappointed in the abrupt ending. I kept waiting for the MC’s to get together, and when they finally did, the story ended.
I appreciated the description of Alora’s declining vision, and felt for her. There was very little spice, which was a letdown. One can’t go wrong including a dog in the story, however.
Not her best work, in my opinion, but I certainly will continue reading her work.
Thanks to NetGalley for the opportunity to read this book.

[Quinn · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a lovely story with depth, heart and soul. Ronica Black has written a wonderful story that will live on in your mind beyond its final words. Behold My Heart is the unusually beautiful love story of Alora & Bodie. The two women appear to incredibly different but ultimately compliment one another in the very best of ways.

Alora is a largely successful artist. She has dedicated her life to her craft and career and has experienced a great deal of success professionally. However, her passion and commitment towards her profession has left room for little else and she struggles with personal connections of the emotional variety. When she begins to lose her vision she realizes that she will need help in order to continue her life’s work. Without art she is lost. But the idea of needing help is quite difficult for her.

This untenable life circumstance coupled with a mostly solitary professional life has turned her into a grump. She is unhappy with her circumstances and takes it out on the world. She accepts that without help she will be unable to make art & decides to hire a young woman. She hires Bodie, a young starving artist as her assistant and helper. Bodie has certainly been kicked in the ass by life, time and time again. She has cared for her mom and has experience as a caregiver as well as being an artist herself…not to mention she needs the work. She is perfect for the role. For Bodie she approaches the caregiver role with an open mind and is a bit intrigued at the opportunity to work with a pretty famous artist.

These two women embark on a push & pull journey whereby they find within each other what is missing in themselves. It is not an easy or uncomplicated journey but certainly rewarding. The characters are deep & soulful and a joy to get to know. This book is a wonderful example of what you could find if you get out of your own way. I will say, the story was a bit Alora centric and I would have enjoyed reading more about Bodie. She was a truly unique and amazing young woman whose kindness and resilience was admirable. However, I was happy to follow along on their path toward find love in one another. It was a satisfying and rewarding wlw story and I would recommend it.

Thank you to NetGalley, Bold Strokes Books & author Ronics Black for an ARC in exchange for an honest review

[Mara · Rating 4 out of 5]

‘Behold My Heart’ by Ronica Black is a slow-burn, character-driven romance that focuses on real-life challenges, emotional growth and dealing with a loss and disability.

Alora Anders, driven and resilient, yet stubborn, well-established artist quickly begins to lose her vision. She's devastated, especially as her condition starts to affect her beloved art. As her life is falling apart, one piece after another, she spirals into depression. The suggestion that she hire a live-in caregiver only worsen her emotional state. She doesn’t want help, nor does she trust that anyone would come into her life with pure intentions. Despite her resistance, her best friend insists it's necessary for her well-being, and after many discussions, Alora finally agrees to hire a younger woman, Bodie Banks.


Bodie is a struggling sculptor, hoping to connect with a fellow artist and draw inspiration from the experience. However, those hopes are dashed the moment she meets Alora, who’s rude, angry and clearly doesn’t want her there.

The characters are well-developed and engaging. The plot explores the emotional and mental challenges of a sudden disability, highlighting the struggles of acceptance and adjustment. The book brilliantly conveys those difficulties. The story also consists of thropes like age-gap, ice-queen, opposites attract and financial disparity.

The story, while beautifully written, the romance part of it feels secondary to the emotional journey. The pacing and development of the main characters' relationship was quite slow, and at times Alora and Bodie felt more like close companions than lovers. There were multiple moments where the angst could’ve been used to strengthen their dynamic and chemistry.

That said, I really enjoyed the book. It’s a slightly heavier read, but filled with care, understanding and growth. It held my attention from the first page to the very end.

I definitely recommend the book, especially to those who enjoy strong character development and don’t necessarily need steamy sapphic scenes to feel fulfilled by a romance.

I received an ARC of this book from Bold Strokes Books via NetGalley, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Fiona Sawyer · Rating 4 out of 5]

By the time I was two chapters into Behold My Heart, I just knew that I was going to really enjoy this story but could also tell that it wasn't going to be a smooth ride. It was evident that there was a lot of pain behind both characters’ pasts, and I was really looking forward to watching them come out the other side. Ronica Black delivers a beautiful story of resilience and the power of following your heart.

Alora Andres and Bodie Banks are living two very different lives. Alora, is a world-famous artist who is leading her dream life producing works of art that are highly sought after the world over.....until she finds out that she is going to lose her sight due to a degenerative eye condition. Meanwhile, Bodie is a struggling artist who has let her artistic dreams go while serving as a caregiver to her family, in particular her disabled mother who has recently passed away. Both women are struggling to find their way forward when they are bought together by a suggestion from a mutual friend that Bodie might be the perfect person to support Alora as a live-in caregiver. However, their first meeting is anything but smooth with Alora's aloof, rude, angry and anything but welcoming manner.

I really enjoyed watching the two women come together in a way that they could end up supporting and encouraging each other. The question is whether they can realise that have so much they can give to each other before Alora's anger, frustration and fear leads her to push Bodie away completely. This was definitely a story of give and take from both sides. It was fascinating to watch the tension build between the two women as Alora tries to fight her new reality and her need to let go of her past hurts while Bodie has to learn to stand up for her own needs and dreams.

If you are looking for a story that will take you on a rollercoaster journey of emotions then this is likely to be a book for you.

I am grateful to Ronica Black, Bold Storkes Books and NetGalley for providing me with an ARC copy of Behold My Heart and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Tuba · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an ARC from NetGalley, and I am writing this review voluntarily.

The book is about painting, art, and healing, or, more precisely, the process of healing.

After receiving a life-altering diagnosis, Alora Anders went through a brief but intense period of loss, denial, and pain before reaching a place of acceptance. She adapted her lifestyle, her work habits, and even her medium — or rather, her art itself. Alora is a visionary artist whose paintings seem to come alive once complete. But she is also a perfectionist. When her eyesight was threatened by a degenerative condition, she found herself unable to truly see her art — not just in the physical sense, but in her mind’s eye. She became frozen in grief and unable to paint. The experience was deeply traumatic. As her vision declined rapidly, she needed help. That’s when Bodie Banks entered her life as a caregiver.

Bodie is also an artist. She was pursuing a bachelor’s degree in Art History, but had to drop out to care for her ailing mother. To support them, she took a night shift job at a bakery, leaving her own dreams behind for family. After her mother’s passing, she was searching for a change when she found the opportunity to work for Alora. She took the job — and I’d love to say the rest is history, but it’s not. In truth, that’s where the story begins: a journey through pain, loss, grief, and the slow, tender process of finding each other and healing together.

This book has its ups and downs. The ending felt a little rushed, but I loved the story so much. I deeply relate to both Alora and Bodie. I would recommend this book to anyone who is processing a loss and is open to the idea of healing together.

[Bee Sherrard · Rating 4 out of 5]

It’s been a few years since Bodie Banks has had some time to herself. Foremost of her life she was always working, first as a second mom to her brothers and sister. Her mother was working two jobs trying to keep a roof over their family. When it came time for Bodie to explore her passion for turning a clump of clay into a work of art. She’s finished school and even took some classes but when her mother was diagnosed with cancer Bodie became her mother’s caretaker. Now with her mom gone she has to get her act together, she wants to study art. But she also has to keep a roof over her head.
Alora Anders was well known in the art world for her wonderful paintings which were in demand so making some money came pretty easily, owning three homes she loved. Growing up poor makes her very careful with her money and over the years she’s had more than one try to weasel her riches for themselves. So trusting someone didn’t come easy. She had a number of acquaintances but only one true friend, Tabby, who’s been by her friend since both were young.
Now the doctors tell her she is going blind. How was she supposed to paint or for that matter live life without a caregiver. With Tabby she finally finds someone, but can she trust this one to keep her life private. The main characters along with a supporting cast come together with a great plot makes this a wonderful read.
ARC via NetGalley/ Bold Stroke Books

[Kaye · Rating 3 out of 5]

Alora Ander’s is a known and successful painter. Her works collect top dollar. But when she learns that her headaches are actually a symptom of a degenerative eye disease things in her life have to change. Her artist teaching friend suggests Bodie Banks, one of her students, as a live-in caregiver for the artist. But things don’t start off smoothly. Alora is still dealing with anger and depression over her diagnosis and she doesn’t trust easily.

I love the premise for this but wasn’t as thrilled with the characters. So much of the focus is on Alora, and how this is impacting her, it makes the book feel more like women’s fiction. Of course I understand that she is angry and concerned about making a living. It would be hard to downsize and give up your fancy cars. But she was seldom kind to Bodie. And Bodie’s character is sort of a doormat. She took care of her mother and sacrificed so her sibling didn’t have to. And now she is doing it again. The dog was a nice addition to the plot. But once there is the beginning of a romance the story comes to an abrupt end. I wasn’t convinced the pair would be together for the next few months let alone for a HEA.

Thank you to NetGalley and Bold Strokes Books for the eARC and I am leaving an honest review.

[En · Rating 3 out of 5]

Age age, disability, kind of slow burn. Double POV.

Alora Anders is an eclectic famous painter losing her vision. Bodie Banks is a bereaved caregiver and a talented sculptor.

Alora needs a live-in caregiver and Bodie needs inspiration and a change in pace. Except Alora isn't what Bodie expected.

I was attracted by the description, but found the story too one-sided, mostly focusing on Alora's breakdown due to her vision loss. Though Bodie was also set up with her own flaws, she just whisks through her issues. (And I know I'm going to sound like a jerk saying this, but...) It felt as though Bodie's struggles were undermined by Alora's depression.

A redeeming factor was the apt depiction of depression onset. No over the top drama, but a silent, gradual slide implied between the lines and confirmed by supporting characters. Feels realistic, at least in my experience.

Overall, pacing was slow initially but the all-is-lost arc and resolutions felt a little forced, which made the ending feel a little abrupt.

Many thanks to Netgalley and Bold Strokes Books for the ARC!

[TheLisaD · Rating 5 out of 5]

Behold My Heart by Ronica Black is a tender and uplifting romance that explores love, self-discovery, and the unexpected paths that bring people together. At its core, the novel follows two individuals who are each grappling with their own sense of loss and directionlessness, only to find solace and purpose in one another.

Black’s storytelling is heartfelt and genuine, capturing the emotional vulnerability of her characters with warmth and subtlety. The romance that unfolds feels organic and sincere, offering moments of quiet beauty alongside meaningful character growth. What makes this story especially memorable is how it portrays love not just as a romantic connection, but as a catalyst for healing and transformation.

Behold My Heart is a charming and emotionally rich read that celebrates the power of connection and second chances. It’s a beautiful reminder that sometimes the most unexpected relationships lead to the most profound changes.

[Henriette · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overcoming loss and finding love
Alora, a reknowned painter, is well-to-do but is slowly losing her vision; Bodie, a sculptor and caregiver, has not much and just lost her mother. Fate (or rather Alora‘s best friend) bring them together when Bodie moves in as Alora‘s caregiver.
Ronica Black captured very well the many losses of Alora: her passion in painting, her material security, her place in the world and its consequences: rage, despondence, depression. Bodie in comparison doesn‘t have much and despite everything is in a much happier place. I enjoyed the slow development of the story and the slow burn unfolding between the two main characters.
The story and the smooth writing captured my attention.The end was a bit abrupt though.

I received an ARC via netgalley. The review is left voluntarily.

[Pamela · Rating 4 out of 5]

Alora Anders is an artist whose paintings are sought after by wealthy collectors around the world. Suddenly—unexpectedly—her life falls apart. Her sister hires an assistant, Bodie Bonds, to help get Alora through the crisis. Bodie, who has admired Alora for years, gave up her dreams of becoming a sculptor when her mother was diagnosed with terminal cancer. Alora doesn’t want an assistant and makes no bones about it.

This is a well-written multi-genre (ice queen, age gap, opposites attract) romance with little angst although the author had a golden opportunity to fill her pages with tons of angst. The characters are well-drawn and readers will love the two main characters. And there is a Golden Retriever with the unfortunate name of Tator.

My thanks to Bold Strokes Books for an eARC.

[Aleana · Rating 4 out of 5]

I received an ARC copy of this book from the Publisher via Netgalley and voluntarily leaving my review.


Alora is living her dream as world famous artist but learns that she has degenerative eye condition which means she losing her sight and she is devastated because now she has to rely on someone help and that’s something she has to get use to because she independently. Bodie is a artist also but let her dream go to be a caregiver for her mother who recently passed away from a friend she meets Alora who is reluctant for help but knows she needs it they both have been struggling to move forward but can they both realize they can give each other so much. I like that the romance was secondary and it’s focus on acceptance learning to let people in and that although you may lose something, something good always comes if you open to it.

[Meghan · Rating 3 out of 5]

Alora is a well known painter and has always enjoyed the life she has, but her vision is going and there's nothing she can do about it. Swallowing her pride, she ends up having to hire someone to help with her impaired vision.

Bodie is a struggling young artist and looking to better her life. She ends up accepting a job as a live in caregiver for Alora, and hopes it will be good for her to learn from a fellow artist. Instead, Alora is nothing like she hoped it would be.

I've enjoyed most of Black's books, but this one fell short. It's a massive slow burn with very little spice which Black is known for and the story abruptly ended after MC's finally get together. It was a big let down.

I received an ARC from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review.

[Kennedy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Life is so unpredictable. A reminder to appreciate all that you have and especially your family and friends. Alora Anders, successful artist, living the life that she dreamed of until... Bodie Banks, struggling artist looking for a different life after being a care giver for her family. An opportunity presents itself to work as a caregiver for Alora who is losing her vision to a degenerative eye disease with no cure. There are challenges for both Bodie and Alora. Not only did this read have me engaged but it it provided an opportunity to make me think about life and what is important. Really liked Tater and the role he played. Nice.

ARC provided by Bold Strokes Books Inc. via Netgalley

[Claire · Rating 3 out of 5]

The main character in this book is quite unlikeable, she is an artist who is losing her sight, which is obviously devastating but she is unbelievably awful to those closest to her. It makes it quite tricky to care about her and stay with the book, but I’m glad that I did. The story arc of Bodie a woman grieving for her mum who also sculpts was wonderfully uplifting. She grows, finds her independence and deserves more than the rushed ending.

With thanks to Netgalley and the publisher for an arc in exchange for an honest review.

[Steph · Rating 5 out of 5]

Whether true or not, I don’t know, but artists are frequently stereotyped as being driven by their emotions and this story and the artists depicted in it certainly were. For better or worse, in grief and in joy, emotions were the primary driver of actions and sciences throughout this novel and it was definitely a (relatable) emotional rollercoaster. This novel will suck you in and remind you of the power of friendship and empathy and I would easily recommend it to someone looking for such a book.

I received an ARC of this novel from NetGalley.

[Fran Sappharc · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 but rounded up because I was compelled to keep reading. This isn't a feel good book but it does have a happy ending. It's not insta love although it is insta attraction. I felt the expression of that attraction was a bit sudden and a wee bit off but as a plot device it worked. As I say, I found something compelling about the book, and there’s been a fair few recently I have enjoyed but they have not had the “compulsion” to continue with just one more chapter before getting on with real life!

[Eric · Rating 4 out of 5]

An enjoyable story that I found slow in some places but kept me interested enough to want to see how it all ended. I enjoyed the writing and the characters but it didn’t fully wow me.

Thanks to NetGallery and the publisher for this arc in exchange for my honest review.

[Kexx · Rating 4 out of 5]

Strangely old fashioned feel to this book, as if written in the 50s. Skip read though the mid section, enjoyed but never passed into a ‘must pick up & read’ book. Bit disappointed.