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Maybe It's Fate
Not yet published
Expected 1 Apr 26In a moving story of love and loss, a corporate consultant leaves her life behind to care for her dying friend’s children—and finds hope with the small-town coach who steps up to the plate with her.
From the author of The Art of Starting Over comes a heartfelt portrait of what it means to build a family, as a young woman navigates grief, guardianship, and the bittersweet gift of falling in love.
The only thing that could pull Antonia Bernardi away from her high-powered career is her lifelong best friend. And with two children and a cruel prognosis, Miriam Vaughn needs her now more than ever.
Antonia drops everything—her job, her relationship—to be there for the Vaughns. Playing mom to Miriam’s teenage son and seven-year-old daughter is a tall order made heavier by grief. But the kids need her, and she needs them.
Then there’s the boy’s coach and mentor, former MLB star Weston Schmidt. He’s a pillar of support, a safe space for Antonia to rest. But there’s too much going on to even think about romance … or maybe that’s exactly why they should.
Adjusting to life without her best friend, Antonia leans into her new role as guardian, doing work she loves and repairing the old farmhouse Miriam cherished. Nothing can stop the world from spinning—but Antonia has every reason to keep on going.
From the author of The Art of Starting Over comes a heartfelt portrait of what it means to build a family, as a young woman navigates grief, guardianship, and the bittersweet gift of falling in love.
The only thing that could pull Antonia Bernardi away from her high-powered career is her lifelong best friend. And with two children and a cruel prognosis, Miriam Vaughn needs her now more than ever.
Antonia drops everything—her job, her relationship—to be there for the Vaughns. Playing mom to Miriam’s teenage son and seven-year-old daughter is a tall order made heavier by grief. But the kids need her, and she needs them.
Then there’s the boy’s coach and mentor, former MLB star Weston Schmidt. He’s a pillar of support, a safe space for Antonia to rest. But there’s too much going on to even think about romance … or maybe that’s exactly why they should.
Adjusting to life without her best friend, Antonia leans into her new role as guardian, doing work she loves and repairing the old farmhouse Miriam cherished. Nothing can stop the world from spinning—but Antonia has every reason to keep on going.
318 pages, Kindle Edition
Expected publication April 1, 2026
2 people are currently reading
274 people want to read
About the author
Heidi McLaughlin
128 books7,452 followersHeidi McLaughlin is a New York Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestselling author of The Beaumont Series, The Boys of Summer, and The Archers.
In 2012, Heidi turned her passion for reading into a full-fledged literary career, writing over twenty novels, including the acclaimed Forever My Girl.
Heidi’s first novel, Forever My Girl, has been adapted into a motion picture with LD Entertainment and Roadside Attractions, starring Alex Roe and Jessica Rothe, and opened in theaters on January 19, 2018.
To stay connected with Heidi visit www.facebook.com/authorheidimclaughlin or heidimclaughlin.com
In 2012, Heidi turned her passion for reading into a full-fledged literary career, writing over twenty novels, including the acclaimed Forever My Girl.
Heidi’s first novel, Forever My Girl, has been adapted into a motion picture with LD Entertainment and Roadside Attractions, starring Alex Roe and Jessica Rothe, and opened in theaters on January 19, 2018.
To stay connected with Heidi visit www.facebook.com/authorheidimclaughlin or heidimclaughlin.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 33 reviews
November 26, 2025
4⭐️ I chose to read this ARC as the plot sounded like an emotional rollercoaster, and it is exactly that. I think I cried a good few times from beginning to end.
First of all, the main storyline being Toni and Miri's relationship, is a dream. You truly feel the love that these two characters have for one another, more so Toni with her being the FMC. I enjoyed all the different POVs and learning about each character's own relationship with Miri and their own journey with grief. The whole plot was written really well.
Toni and Weston's relationship was kind of subtle, growing in the background, which I appreciated for this storyline. A romance can easily turn distasteful in a plot like this, but I didn't once get that feeling. Towards the end I wish there were more details and development into their relationship, maybe it was a bit rushed.
I also feel that there were some plot developments that never came to a head, I was expecting some things to happen that just didn't.
Overall, a lovely, emotional book. I would recommend to someone looking for a good cry!
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC in return for an honest review🤍
First of all, the main storyline being Toni and Miri's relationship, is a dream. You truly feel the love that these two characters have for one another, more so Toni with her being the FMC. I enjoyed all the different POVs and learning about each character's own relationship with Miri and their own journey with grief. The whole plot was written really well.
Toni and Weston's relationship was kind of subtle, growing in the background, which I appreciated for this storyline. A romance can easily turn distasteful in a plot like this, but I didn't once get that feeling. Towards the end I wish there were more details and development into their relationship, maybe it was a bit rushed.
I also feel that there were some plot developments that never came to a head, I was expecting some things to happen that just didn't.
Overall, a lovely, emotional book. I would recommend to someone looking for a good cry!
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC in return for an honest review🤍
November 25, 2025
Was this my first Heidi book? I'm not sure, but I think it must've been.
And it was ... hearbreaking. I think I cried from the first chapter all the way to the end.
I kind of expected something a little different from reading the blurb. I thought her friend died and then she 'inherits' the kids and we go from there - with just a little bit of sadness in the past. But it was so much worse. We get so many heartbreaking and sad moments. Ugh.
But it was also so very sweet and adorable and funny and I loved all the people and the dog and the locations.
I want my own Weston and my own Cutter too - if I was a few tiny decades younger. LOL.
It could've been a tiny bit longer. With more falling in love moments and not so many quick summaries of what happened the last few months - especially towards the end. I just wanted more. More sad kids moments. More Toni + Weston. More HGTV projects. There was room and potential for so much more. But I still loved reading it.
MAYBE IT'S FATE was such a heartbreaking and sweet and beautiful story about family and friendship and life and love and grief and finding happiness and so much more! Read it!
November 21, 2025
I have an Ugly Cry booklist and for eight years the same title has been at the top, but no more. Maybe it's Fate now sits there. There is a good reason for that. Maybe It's Fate is a story of love, friendship and heartache reminding the reader that life is not always fair. It's worth the pain and the tears, in order to gain the moments you’ll treasure forever. I had periods of crying to the very end. Not sniffles. Huge, crocodile tears. Best Friends Forever has gained new meaning thanks to Heidi McLaughlin's book.
As teens, Toni promised to always be there for Miri's unborn child. It was a promise most make without thinking about the future. The time has come and Toni doesn't let Miri down. Toni is there for the long goodbye. Toni is there for the children and Miri. She picks up and moves to a small town leaving her life in Boston in the rearview mirror.
Toni finds a new friend in Weston. She is one lucky girl. He is not only a neighbor but he is a retired professional baseball player turned high school coach. He doesn't take no for answer. He stands by her side through the difficult times. He becomes so much more for Toni, for the family. The slow burn romance took some of the pain away for Toni, for the reader.
The real life situations added so much to the story. I found myself completely invested in the characters. The story's flow never faltered. Having Cutter, Miri's son, have his own chapters was absolute genius. The reader gets a better perspective. The emotions---just WOW.
As teens, Toni promised to always be there for Miri's unborn child. It was a promise most make without thinking about the future. The time has come and Toni doesn't let Miri down. Toni is there for the long goodbye. Toni is there for the children and Miri. She picks up and moves to a small town leaving her life in Boston in the rearview mirror.
Toni finds a new friend in Weston. She is one lucky girl. He is not only a neighbor but he is a retired professional baseball player turned high school coach. He doesn't take no for answer. He stands by her side through the difficult times. He becomes so much more for Toni, for the family. The slow burn romance took some of the pain away for Toni, for the reader.
The real life situations added so much to the story. I found myself completely invested in the characters. The story's flow never faltered. Having Cutter, Miri's son, have his own chapters was absolute genius. The reader gets a better perspective. The emotions---just WOW.
November 17, 2025
4.5 stars ⭐️
This book was an absolute gem. I’m so glad I got to read it, because it took me through a full rollercoaster of emotions, I laughed, I cried, my heart ached, and there were moments that felt both hopeful and heartbreaking at the same time. Heidi McLaughlin’s writing is so warm and honest, and the characters felt incredibly real. Antonia especially stood out to me: strong, grounded, respectful, and determined, even when life keeps knocking her down.
For me, the romance is more of a soft undertone in the background, and I actually appreciated that. The heart of this story is Antonia herself, her grief, her healing, and her transition from a career-focused woman to someone suddenly responsible for two kids she loves like her own. That whole journey felt deeply believable and emotional without being overly dramatic.
One of my favorite parts of the book was the use of three POVs: Antonia, Weston, and Cutter. Reading Cutter’s chapters was unexpectedly powerful. Heidi captured the voice of a sixteen-year-old dealing with unimaginable loss while still handling normal teenage confusion and insecurity. His sections added so much depth to the story.
And Weston… he was exactly the kind of presence Antonia needed. Steady, patient, caring without trying to take over. Their connection felt comforting and gentle, even if the romance itself stayed in the background.
My only small critique is that a few side plots and mini-arcs didn’t feel entirely necessary and didn’t add much to the main story. And personally, I wish we’d gotten a bit more development between Antonia and Weston — their relationship shifts quickly, even though the buildup takes time. But I also understand that this book isn’t meant to be a traditional romance, and the emotional core isn’t centered on the love story.
Overall, it’s a heartfelt, emotional read about grief, chosen family, and finding strength when life gives you no choice. I really enjoyed it.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
This book was an absolute gem. I’m so glad I got to read it, because it took me through a full rollercoaster of emotions, I laughed, I cried, my heart ached, and there were moments that felt both hopeful and heartbreaking at the same time. Heidi McLaughlin’s writing is so warm and honest, and the characters felt incredibly real. Antonia especially stood out to me: strong, grounded, respectful, and determined, even when life keeps knocking her down.
For me, the romance is more of a soft undertone in the background, and I actually appreciated that. The heart of this story is Antonia herself, her grief, her healing, and her transition from a career-focused woman to someone suddenly responsible for two kids she loves like her own. That whole journey felt deeply believable and emotional without being overly dramatic.
One of my favorite parts of the book was the use of three POVs: Antonia, Weston, and Cutter. Reading Cutter’s chapters was unexpectedly powerful. Heidi captured the voice of a sixteen-year-old dealing with unimaginable loss while still handling normal teenage confusion and insecurity. His sections added so much depth to the story.
And Weston… he was exactly the kind of presence Antonia needed. Steady, patient, caring without trying to take over. Their connection felt comforting and gentle, even if the romance itself stayed in the background.
My only small critique is that a few side plots and mini-arcs didn’t feel entirely necessary and didn’t add much to the main story. And personally, I wish we’d gotten a bit more development between Antonia and Weston — their relationship shifts quickly, even though the buildup takes time. But I also understand that this book isn’t meant to be a traditional romance, and the emotional core isn’t centered on the love story.
Overall, it’s a heartfelt, emotional read about grief, chosen family, and finding strength when life gives you no choice. I really enjoyed it.
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for this ARC in exchange for my honest review!
November 24, 2025
3* Worth a read for the decency that there is in people, still, but the tale missed the mark for me because Miri just faded away too quickly and emotionlessly.
There's not been a book that I've not enjoyed by this author until now, sadly. It was still very readable but I expected to be in tears for most of it, yet wasn't. I found it far too lite on emotions, especially given that there were 2 kids who lost a mum here, but the focus seemed all Bestie's Feelings, Bestie's Feelings, Bestie's Feelings. And I didn't see or feel any spark between her and Weston, although I could see why the author paired them up.
For me, the teen-Miri part got hinted at then totally skipped some 16/17 years. I'd have thought being dumped by her boyfriend when she told him she was pregnant might have made her wise to him, but nope, she let him back into her life only for history to repeat itself and for her eldest child to be hurt, smd abandoned twice. Then, we found that she'd ignored medical symptoms until when she got a diagnosis, there was nothing that could be done for her, then she was gone. Quickly, quietly, without much in the way of emotion, except from Bestie and her Feelings. It was just too much 'Bestie and her Feelings' to be a healthy thing or a balanced thing.
Bringing in the estranged grandparents for that aspect to simply fade away felt unnecessary and just adding something inorganic.
The tale does end well, fairytale-like, because both Bestie and Weston are pretty well off and can make it all happen. I'd still read more from this author but this one was a letdown compared to Heartbreak Hill and Before I'm Gone, both of which had me in tears knowing there wouldn't be HEAs for everyone.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Montlake for my reading pleasure.
There's not been a book that I've not enjoyed by this author until now, sadly. It was still very readable but I expected to be in tears for most of it, yet wasn't. I found it far too lite on emotions, especially given that there were 2 kids who lost a mum here, but the focus seemed all Bestie's Feelings, Bestie's Feelings, Bestie's Feelings. And I didn't see or feel any spark between her and Weston, although I could see why the author paired them up.
For me, the teen-Miri part got hinted at then totally skipped some 16/17 years. I'd have thought being dumped by her boyfriend when she told him she was pregnant might have made her wise to him, but nope, she let him back into her life only for history to repeat itself and for her eldest child to be hurt, smd abandoned twice. Then, we found that she'd ignored medical symptoms until when she got a diagnosis, there was nothing that could be done for her, then she was gone. Quickly, quietly, without much in the way of emotion, except from Bestie and her Feelings. It was just too much 'Bestie and her Feelings' to be a healthy thing or a balanced thing.
Bringing in the estranged grandparents for that aspect to simply fade away felt unnecessary and just adding something inorganic.
The tale does end well, fairytale-like, because both Bestie and Weston are pretty well off and can make it all happen. I'd still read more from this author but this one was a letdown compared to Heartbreak Hill and Before I'm Gone, both of which had me in tears knowing there wouldn't be HEAs for everyone.
ARC courtesy of NetGalley and Montlake for my reading pleasure.
November 21, 2025
Heidi McLaughlin’s Maybe It’s Fate is a tender exploration of love, loss, and the unexpected ways family can be redefined. At its heart is Antonia Bernardi, a corporate consultant who steps away from her fast-paced career to care for her best friend’s children. What begins as an act of loyalty and grief gradually unfolds into a story of resilience, belonging, and the quiet beauty of second chances.
McLaughlin balances the heaviness of loss with moments of warmth—whether through Antonia’s bond with the children or the gentle presence of Weston Schmidt, the former MLB star who becomes both mentor and anchor. The romance is understated yet deeply felt, woven into the larger narrative of healing and homecoming.
The novel’s strength lies in its atmosphere: the farmhouse repairs, the rhythms of small-town life, and the bittersweet tenderness of building something new out of heartbreak. It’s a story that feels both grounded and hopeful, reminding us that even in the shadow of grief, love has a way of finding its place.
Casual readers will appreciate the accessible prose and heartfelt characters, while those seeking emotional depth will find themselves lingering over McLaughlin’s portrayal of guardianship and chosen family. It’s a book that leaves you with a quiet ache—and a gentle smile.
My thanks to Heidi McLaughlin, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC.
McLaughlin balances the heaviness of loss with moments of warmth—whether through Antonia’s bond with the children or the gentle presence of Weston Schmidt, the former MLB star who becomes both mentor and anchor. The romance is understated yet deeply felt, woven into the larger narrative of healing and homecoming.
The novel’s strength lies in its atmosphere: the farmhouse repairs, the rhythms of small-town life, and the bittersweet tenderness of building something new out of heartbreak. It’s a story that feels both grounded and hopeful, reminding us that even in the shadow of grief, love has a way of finding its place.
Casual readers will appreciate the accessible prose and heartfelt characters, while those seeking emotional depth will find themselves lingering over McLaughlin’s portrayal of guardianship and chosen family. It’s a book that leaves you with a quiet ache—and a gentle smile.
My thanks to Heidi McLaughlin, the publisher and netgalley for the ARC.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
5 Stars for this gut-wrenching story.
OMG … make sure you have a box of tissues handy because you’re gonna need them. I love the way the story is told … not only through Toni and Weston’s eyes, but Cutters as well. I loved Toni … she had a heart of gold and put her family first … no matter what. And Weston was this sturdy rock at Toni’s side and stepped up without being asked. This is a story of unconditional love, heartache, friendship while being faced with the hardest journey in life. The author made me feel like I was right there in Grove Hill with the realistic banter and situations. I highly recommend it!
Toni and Miri have been best friends since they were small children. When they were seventeen, Miri got pregnant and when her parents disowned her, Toni and her family became Miri’s family. Years later, Miri is a single mother of a teenage son (Cutter) and a small daughter (Nova) living on the outskirts of a small town, when she finds out she has cancer. The first person she calls is Toni. Toni is an executive at a Boston firm, but she drops everything to be there for Miri and her family. Little did she know that phone call would change all their lives forever.
I received an ARC courtesy of Montlake through NetGalley.
OMG … make sure you have a box of tissues handy because you’re gonna need them. I love the way the story is told … not only through Toni and Weston’s eyes, but Cutters as well. I loved Toni … she had a heart of gold and put her family first … no matter what. And Weston was this sturdy rock at Toni’s side and stepped up without being asked. This is a story of unconditional love, heartache, friendship while being faced with the hardest journey in life. The author made me feel like I was right there in Grove Hill with the realistic banter and situations. I highly recommend it!
Toni and Miri have been best friends since they were small children. When they were seventeen, Miri got pregnant and when her parents disowned her, Toni and her family became Miri’s family. Years later, Miri is a single mother of a teenage son (Cutter) and a small daughter (Nova) living on the outskirts of a small town, when she finds out she has cancer. The first person she calls is Toni. Toni is an executive at a Boston firm, but she drops everything to be there for Miri and her family. Little did she know that phone call would change all their lives forever.
I received an ARC courtesy of Montlake through NetGalley.
November 22, 2025
Maybe It's Fate hit me right in the feelings in the best way. I slipped into Antonia’s world thinking I was signing up for a quiet emotional ride, and instead found myself completely wrapped up in her chaos, her grief, and her fierce determination to show up for Miriam’s kids. Watching her juggle teenage moods, a seven-year-old’s heartbreak, and her own sense of being unmoored felt so real. And then Weston walks in—steady, patient, and somehow the one person who can give Antonia a breather without asking for anything in return. Their connection grows so naturally that I kept thinking, okay, maybe fate really is out here doing the most.
What I loved most is how Heidi McLaughlin balances the heavy moments with these soft, warm sparks of hope. Antonia and Weston don’t rush anything, but their slow shift from “we’re just trying to survive this” to something more felt honest and earned. The way Antonia builds a new version of family, piece by piece, makes the whole story land with a quiet kind of power. Maybe It's Fate is a great addition to your book collection. Happy Reading...enjoy!
What I loved most is how Heidi McLaughlin balances the heavy moments with these soft, warm sparks of hope. Antonia and Weston don’t rush anything, but their slow shift from “we’re just trying to survive this” to something more felt honest and earned. The way Antonia builds a new version of family, piece by piece, makes the whole story land with a quiet kind of power. Maybe It's Fate is a great addition to your book collection. Happy Reading...enjoy!
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Maybe It’s Fate by Heidi McLaughlin is so much more than just a contemporary romance. This book took me through of myriad of emotions from start to finish and I was completely and totally wrung out when I read the last word. The romantic aspect of this read really takes a back seat to the real story being told and it’s perfectly done and I wouldn’t change a thing about it. If you’ve read the blurb, you know there’s some heavy stuff coming, but it’s done so well with such well written emotion that I was unable to put it down, even while crying my eyes out. The characters pull you into their story and I especially loved reading all 3 POV’s from Antonia, Weston, and Cutter. This is a heartfelt, intensely emotional read about grief, found family, relying on faith and finding strength through that faith when life gets messy and difficult. We’ve all been there at some point and I think we can all see ourselves in one of the characters in this book. I thoroughly enjoyed Maybe It’s Fate and highly recommend it. I’m very grateful to NetGalley for the opportunity to read an advance copy of this book.
November 22, 2025
The emotional impact this story had on me will stay with me for years to come. The love of friendship and dropping everything to be there for your best friend as she transitions on from this life to her eternal life and to be the sole caretaker of her children when she is gone is extremely powerful.
Antonia is a successful woman with a career and a partner but no children. Coincidentally her best friend Miriam is the mother to two amazing kids and a rather simple life, and when she learns she is sick, she asks Antonia to be with her and her kids. At the drop of a hat she takes off to be there support system. Cutter a 16 year old boy struggles with the loss of his mom, he is lost and doesn't want a mom replacement. His chapters capture the essence being a child and losing a parent and best friend. His pov broke me.
Weston is the neighbor next door and also Cutters baseball coach. He becomes important in both Antonia and Cutters lives as he is there as they grieve and start to heal. As Antonia's relationship and career change, Weston is there to help her pick up the pieces.
I sobbed while reading this beautiful story of unending love and friendship that we all hope to have and the love a patience of a partner to build us back together.
Antonia is a successful woman with a career and a partner but no children. Coincidentally her best friend Miriam is the mother to two amazing kids and a rather simple life, and when she learns she is sick, she asks Antonia to be with her and her kids. At the drop of a hat she takes off to be there support system. Cutter a 16 year old boy struggles with the loss of his mom, he is lost and doesn't want a mom replacement. His chapters capture the essence being a child and losing a parent and best friend. His pov broke me.
Weston is the neighbor next door and also Cutters baseball coach. He becomes important in both Antonia and Cutters lives as he is there as they grieve and start to heal. As Antonia's relationship and career change, Weston is there to help her pick up the pieces.
I sobbed while reading this beautiful story of unending love and friendship that we all hope to have and the love a patience of a partner to build us back together.
November 22, 2025
Such an endearing story of love that will resonate with so many readers. This emotional journey will stay with you beyond the last page. You will be totally invested in their friendship from the first chapter.
Well developed characters like Antonia for her strength, Miriam for her courage, Weston for his love and of course, Carmela for her ability to know exactly what to say and do to love her family.
Losing someone you love that has had such an impact on your life is soul crushing. We can all understand that loss and embrace that feeling. Heidi took this story and brings it to life for her readers. She allowed all the feelings and emotions to pour through while still allowing the characters to move forward in the grief by honoring her wishes and memories.
Cutter and Nova had to deal with so much and the writing of their challenges was so well done it gave them grace while still allowing them to love Antonia in their loss.
I’ve fallen in love with them all. A story I never wanted to end and will remain with me. So very well done. Heidi has a 5 star read with this release.
January 25, 2026
Maybe It’s Fate is a story of friendship, loss, grief, and love. Miriam and Antonia have a friendship few people will ever experience. They have stood by each other like sisters as life has thrown curveballs. Miri receives a devastating prognosis, and Toni drops everything to be at her side. Their relationship was my favorite part of the book.
The plot was so promising—all the elements were there for an incredible, emotional book. Somehow it missed the mark for me. I feel the pacing was off. The second half of the book was rushed and read like a summary of the storyline in places. Weston and Toni’s relationship could have been more developed. I believe the author intended for it to stay out of the spotlight until the end, but I didn’t feel the spark along the way. McLaughlin did an excellent job portraying grief and loss, which had me in tears more than once. I know some would really enjoy this.
Thank you NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
The plot was so promising—all the elements were there for an incredible, emotional book. Somehow it missed the mark for me. I feel the pacing was off. The second half of the book was rushed and read like a summary of the storyline in places. Weston and Toni’s relationship could have been more developed. I believe the author intended for it to stay out of the spotlight until the end, but I didn’t feel the spark along the way. McLaughlin did an excellent job portraying grief and loss, which had me in tears more than once. I know some would really enjoy this.
Thank you NetGalley and Montlake for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Antionio (Toni) and Miriam (Miri) have been best friends since they were 3 years old. Nothing could separate them. Nothing but an early death.
But with this tragedy comes a story about the depths of what Toni and Miri are willing to do for each other, and how the people around them learn to not only survive but thrive in their presence. This is a mini description of the latest novel from Heidi McLaughlin, Maybe It’s Fate.
I will be in the minority when I say that the story shared the right words, but I didn’t “feel” any of the depth of emotions that were intended by the author. It missed the mark in that regard for me. I think the character of Antonio was the most well-developed, but even she felt a bit surface level.
For many who read this book, however, it is sure to be a well-liked story. For some it will be a tearjerker followed by smiles and joy at how the characters were able cope with the tragedy.
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
But with this tragedy comes a story about the depths of what Toni and Miri are willing to do for each other, and how the people around them learn to not only survive but thrive in their presence. This is a mini description of the latest novel from Heidi McLaughlin, Maybe It’s Fate.
I will be in the minority when I say that the story shared the right words, but I didn’t “feel” any of the depth of emotions that were intended by the author. It missed the mark in that regard for me. I think the character of Antonio was the most well-developed, but even she felt a bit surface level.
For many who read this book, however, it is sure to be a well-liked story. For some it will be a tearjerker followed by smiles and joy at how the characters were able cope with the tragedy.
Thank you to Montlake and NetGalley for this ARC. All opinions are my own.
November 22, 2025
If you’re in the mood for a good cry, this book is it. You know, the kind of cry that comes deep within? This book follows Toni who is a successful business woman who lives in the city. Her best friend, Miri, lives in a small town, in a farm house with her two kids, Cutter and Nova. When Toni gets a call from Miri to get there because Miri is sick, Toni drops everything and goes to her friend.
This book deals with love, lost, grief, and honestly, a bunch of real life problems. It shows how much love one can have for another person, so much so that entire worlds are changed for the people you love.
I also felt like the author did a great job in explaining certain legal processes, like you know she did her research or personal experiences.
I highly recommend this book!
I was able to obtain an early copy from Netgalley.
This book deals with love, lost, grief, and honestly, a bunch of real life problems. It shows how much love one can have for another person, so much so that entire worlds are changed for the people you love.
I also felt like the author did a great job in explaining certain legal processes, like you know she did her research or personal experiences.
I highly recommend this book!
I was able to obtain an early copy from Netgalley.
November 25, 2025
Thank you to NetGalley for an ARC of Maybe It's Fate by Heidi McLaughlin. I received a copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I really enjoyed this touching, heartwarming story of Antonia Bernardi. Antonia gets a call from her best friend and immediately drops everything to be by her side. Antonia and Miriam have been friends their whole lives, and Antonia is used to helping out single mom Miriam and her two children. But this time Miriam is calling because she's been diagnosed with terminal cancer.
Antonia isn't prepared to parent a teen and a young girl but she's strong enough to take on the burdens that Miriam's illness thrust upon Antonia. She has to navigate the ups and downs of the illness and treatments while being a surrogate parent to two angry children.
It's tough to read but uplifting and well written throughout. I enjoyed this very much.
I really enjoyed this touching, heartwarming story of Antonia Bernardi. Antonia gets a call from her best friend and immediately drops everything to be by her side. Antonia and Miriam have been friends their whole lives, and Antonia is used to helping out single mom Miriam and her two children. But this time Miriam is calling because she's been diagnosed with terminal cancer.
Antonia isn't prepared to parent a teen and a young girl but she's strong enough to take on the burdens that Miriam's illness thrust upon Antonia. She has to navigate the ups and downs of the illness and treatments while being a surrogate parent to two angry children.
It's tough to read but uplifting and well written throughout. I enjoyed this very much.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
It’s been a long time that I haven’t read a story that pulled on my heartstrings. This is a 10 star must read.
Antonia leaves her life behind in order to come to the aid of her life long best friend and her kids. Circumstances throws her in the path of Weston, the high school coach. Together they will navigate difficult times.
I rarely cry while reading a story, but this one managed to do so many times over. Some were sad and some were happy. The characters were perfectly created for this story. I felt everything these characters felt. It was an amazing story with the perfect storyline. Family doesn’t mean that one needs to share the same blood. They come in every shape and form. This story perfectly displayed it. Beautifully written. Bottomline this is a must read.
Standalone told in a multiple POV with an HEA. I strongly recommend this story.
Antonia leaves her life behind in order to come to the aid of her life long best friend and her kids. Circumstances throws her in the path of Weston, the high school coach. Together they will navigate difficult times.
I rarely cry while reading a story, but this one managed to do so many times over. Some were sad and some were happy. The characters were perfectly created for this story. I felt everything these characters felt. It was an amazing story with the perfect storyline. Family doesn’t mean that one needs to share the same blood. They come in every shape and form. This story perfectly displayed it. Beautifully written. Bottomline this is a must read.
Standalone told in a multiple POV with an HEA. I strongly recommend this story.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
I've seen a lot of reviewers comment on how this book was an emotional rollercoaster and I completely agree as I definitely teared up multiple times throughout. The author did SO well with writing about grief - this book was incredibly poignant and thoughtful. I loved all the characters, especially Antonia and her forever bond with Miriam. Halfway through, I'll admit I was skeptical about the romance as it felt like a third wheel within the plot and I kept thinking about how I didn't really see the point but by the end, I was eating my words. In fact, I wanted the book to be longer and explore Antonia and Weston's relationship more since it seemed to end abruptly.
I absolutely loved this book - 5 stars!
Thank you to Heidi McLaughlin, Montlake, and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC of this book!
#MaybeItsFate #NetGalley
I absolutely loved this book - 5 stars!
Thank you to Heidi McLaughlin, Montlake, and NetGalley for providing me with an eARC of this book!
#MaybeItsFate #NetGalley
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
A heartbreaking story of loss and love but overall hope for the good in life you try to see even when its hard. It‘s also a story of selflessness.
I absolutely loved this story and cried many tears but also smiled many times. Antonia leaves her job and relationship to go help her sick friend Miriam with her children cause Miriam is dying and needs her best friend now more than ever. Miriam‘s sons coach Weston is there to support Antonia and help with the kids as Antonia and the kids adjust to life without her. Weston is a great support and a pillar of strength for Antonia. I love how they find comfort with each other and he is there for all of them and how selfless both are for the kids and for Miriam. It gave me Stepmom vibes with Antonia being Julia Roberts character but without the hate between the women.
A wonderful hearttouching story! 🥺🤧❤️❤️
I absolutely loved this story and cried many tears but also smiled many times. Antonia leaves her job and relationship to go help her sick friend Miriam with her children cause Miriam is dying and needs her best friend now more than ever. Miriam‘s sons coach Weston is there to support Antonia and help with the kids as Antonia and the kids adjust to life without her. Weston is a great support and a pillar of strength for Antonia. I love how they find comfort with each other and he is there for all of them and how selfless both are for the kids and for Miriam. It gave me Stepmom vibes with Antonia being Julia Roberts character but without the hate between the women.
A wonderful hearttouching story! 🥺🤧❤️❤️
November 22, 2025
Miri and Toni have been friends forever. Toni can’t imagine a life without Miri in it, but sadly, that’s something she’ll have to do. They’ve just learned Miri only have 6-12 months to live. Toni is a great friend which is evidence by her dropping everything to be there for Miri and her kids.
This is a story about friendship - the love of friendship. Yes, there is also a side love story which I absolutely loved, but it was well done and didn’t ‘hurt’ the friendship side of the story.
I cried with this one! You’ll heart will break for this family for sure!
I loved Cutter and Nova! Even though they are fictional characters my heart went out to them. I cannot imagine children going through something like this.
That’s all I’m saying - I don’t want to ruin this one for you!
This is a story about friendship - the love of friendship. Yes, there is also a side love story which I absolutely loved, but it was well done and didn’t ‘hurt’ the friendship side of the story.
I cried with this one! You’ll heart will break for this family for sure!
I loved Cutter and Nova! Even though they are fictional characters my heart went out to them. I cannot imagine children going through something like this.
That’s all I’m saying - I don’t want to ruin this one for you!
November 23, 2025
This book takes you on quite the journey. Finding out a loved one is dying, to watching them die and learning to live without them in your life, this book was nothing short of both wonderful and emotional. The author does an amazing job of depicting the stages of grief.
I loved that Cutter had chapters in his POV. Not only do we get to see Antonia's journey of grief and loss, but we got to see the child's POV of losing his mother.
I also love that the love story between Antonia and Weston was not the primary focus. Their story was beautiful, as Weston was very supportive of Antonia and was there for her for everything, but the story of losing a loved one was the focus, and I love that the main focus was there.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC .
I loved that Cutter had chapters in his POV. Not only do we get to see Antonia's journey of grief and loss, but we got to see the child's POV of losing his mother.
I also love that the love story between Antonia and Weston was not the primary focus. Their story was beautiful, as Weston was very supportive of Antonia and was there for her for everything, but the story of losing a loved one was the focus, and I love that the main focus was there.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC .
November 18, 2025
Maybe It's Fate by Heidi McLaughlin, published by Montlake is a full length, stand alone. A story of heartbreak, emotional, raw and gritty. But also about hope, healing, finding a new family.
Antonia and Miriam are best friends since age three. They're through thick and thin, are always, always there for each other. Miriam is mother of a 16 year old boy and a 7 year old girl and Antonia is her only family except her kids.
When karma decides to up their burden, both women are in for the fight of their lives. I can't say enough, this is raw and gritty and emotional, I was a snotty mess most of the time, consider you warned.
Maybe It's Fate goes to my re-read pile, 4,5 stars.
Antonia and Miriam are best friends since age three. They're through thick and thin, are always, always there for each other. Miriam is mother of a 16 year old boy and a 7 year old girl and Antonia is her only family except her kids.
When karma decides to up their burden, both women are in for the fight of their lives. I can't say enough, this is raw and gritty and emotional, I was a snotty mess most of the time, consider you warned.
Maybe It's Fate goes to my re-read pile, 4,5 stars.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
This story begins with teenage Miriam and her best friend Antonia. Miriam has found out she's having a baby and her parents have kicked her out. Antonia stands by her best friend and supports her.
As the story unfolds, Antonio receives a phone call that will change Miriam, her children and Antoina's lives forever.
The story shows depths of emotions from all the characters that make the story shine in a way that the heartbreak the characters endure is felt by the reader.
I was sobbing (in a good way), as I felt the emotions that the author projected from the characters.
I was given this book from netgalley for an honest review.
As the story unfolds, Antonio receives a phone call that will change Miriam, her children and Antoina's lives forever.
The story shows depths of emotions from all the characters that make the story shine in a way that the heartbreak the characters endure is felt by the reader.
I was sobbing (in a good way), as I felt the emotions that the author projected from the characters.
I was given this book from netgalley for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
[arc review]
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Maybe It’s Fate releases April 1, 2026
When Antonia discovers that her best friend since the age of three has been diagnosed with terminal cancer, it’s not even a question as to whether she’ll drop everything to support her and her two kids.
Maybe It’s Fate is a moving and devastatingly emotional story about grief, love, and family. I loved all of McLaughlin’s characters in equal measure and was awed by the level of maturity and grace they showed each other.
Be sure to have tissues on hand — once you start crying, you won’t be able to stop.
Thank you to NetGalley and Montlake for providing an arc in exchange for an honest review.
Maybe It’s Fate releases April 1, 2026
When Antonia discovers that her best friend since the age of three has been diagnosed with terminal cancer, it’s not even a question as to whether she’ll drop everything to support her and her two kids.
Maybe It’s Fate is a moving and devastatingly emotional story about grief, love, and family. I loved all of McLaughlin’s characters in equal measure and was awed by the level of maturity and grace they showed each other.
Be sure to have tissues on hand — once you start crying, you won’t be able to stop.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Have tissues ready when reading Heidi McLaughlin's "Maybe It's Fate." There were so many parallels to the events to my life the last couple of years which may have made my tears flow more freely. The characters' emotions were spot on with what I had (and still am) experiencing. I did feel as if the character of Cutter (the son) thought and spoke as an adult and a little out of character for a sixteen-year-old male. Also, there was some steamy language and scenes which I didn't feel as necessary for the, otherwise, excellent plot.
Releases Apr. 1st. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Releases Apr. 1st. I received a complimentary copy of this book. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
November 16, 2025
When Antonia’s best friend calls her with the devastating news of her illness she drops everything to be there for her and her two children. She could never possibly be prepared to face her own grief much less that of two hurting kids who are about to face unimaginable loss. This was a lovely story of friendship, grief, and deep love. Yes there was romance in there but as good as it was, it paled in comparison to Antonia’s love for her best friend and those kids.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
** warning** Have tissues
This book was so amazing. ** spoiler free review**
This was an amazing story of life long friends who no matter what was there for each other. What I loved the most was that even a man couldn't come between them. Toni who I have to say reminded me of my BFF. Is my hero. I have such respect for her. BUT for me the the true star of the book was Cutter. He really impressed me. Not only as a son but as a big brother.
And then there was Weston the other other hero. He stepped up A LOT!!!! Thats a true book boyfriend
This book was so amazing. ** spoiler free review**
This was an amazing story of life long friends who no matter what was there for each other. What I loved the most was that even a man couldn't come between them. Toni who I have to say reminded me of my BFF. Is my hero. I have such respect for her. BUT for me the the true star of the book was Cutter. He really impressed me. Not only as a son but as a big brother.
And then there was Weston the other other hero. He stepped up A LOT!!!! Thats a true book boyfriend
November 22, 2025
This book rocked me! Omg I cried, I laughed and I fell in love with Antonia and Weston.
This book was a tough one but it was so beautifully written and the characters were amazing. The friendship that Antonia and Weston built is what all beautiful relationships are made of.
Antonia is amazing. As a friend, a conworker and an auntie she shows up for those she loves and doesn’t hesitate to do what needs to be done.
A very beautiful and heartfelt read!
This book was a tough one but it was so beautifully written and the characters were amazing. The friendship that Antonia and Weston built is what all beautiful relationships are made of.
Antonia is amazing. As a friend, a conworker and an auntie she shows up for those she loves and doesn’t hesitate to do what needs to be done.
A very beautiful and heartfelt read!
November 26, 2025
Maybe It’s Fate by Heidi McLaughlin is a beautifully written love story about chosen family, commitment, tragedy and love. This is an emotional read; it will make you cry and make you smile. It’s a story of true friendship, grief and a love between 2 best friends that changes lives. I couldn’t love it more.
December 4, 2025
Such a sweet story, from tears to laughter, this book has it all. I’m glad Miri’s children has an Aunt like Toni. I couldn’t imagine what they would have went through had she not fought for them after receiving the news.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Omg!!! Another amazing book from Heidi. Toni and Wes were meant to be. They compliment each other so well. Cutter was the best big brother to Nova. He really stepped up and handled everything with dignity and grace. Definitely ugly cried more than once!
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