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What the Heart Wants
Disclaimer : This book was previously published as What the Heart Wants - it has changed significantly since.
What if the accident that shattered her body also reshaped her heart?
Willow was a woman with a clear path until a devastating car accident left her unable to walk and uncertain of who she is anymore. Though her best friend Paige and her fiancé Mason offered their unwavering support, Willow felt that she’s become a burden. Hoping to ease the weight she believes she’s placing on their lives, she makes the painful decision to seek help away from her loved ones.
Determined to find healing and rediscover herself, Willow enrolls in a rehabilitation program 243 miles from home. There, she meets Tyler, the son of her carer, grounded in the quiet rhythms of country life. He’s nothing like Mason, yet his calm presence and unfiltered honesty stir something in her. With Tyler, Willow begins to reconnect with parts of herself she thought were lost, beyond the artist, beyond the bride-to-be.
As her body strengthens and her spirit stirs, Willow is pulled between the future she once envisioned and the unexpected life that now calls to her.
When love, identity, and loyalty collide, she must ask herself the hardest question of all: is it braver to hold on or to let go?
What if the accident that shattered her body also reshaped her heart?
Willow was a woman with a clear path until a devastating car accident left her unable to walk and uncertain of who she is anymore. Though her best friend Paige and her fiancé Mason offered their unwavering support, Willow felt that she’s become a burden. Hoping to ease the weight she believes she’s placing on their lives, she makes the painful decision to seek help away from her loved ones.
Determined to find healing and rediscover herself, Willow enrolls in a rehabilitation program 243 miles from home. There, she meets Tyler, the son of her carer, grounded in the quiet rhythms of country life. He’s nothing like Mason, yet his calm presence and unfiltered honesty stir something in her. With Tyler, Willow begins to reconnect with parts of herself she thought were lost, beyond the artist, beyond the bride-to-be.
As her body strengthens and her spirit stirs, Willow is pulled between the future she once envisioned and the unexpected life that now calls to her.
When love, identity, and loyalty collide, she must ask herself the hardest question of all: is it braver to hold on or to let go?
129 pages, ebook
First published October 15, 2019
1 person is currently reading
29 people want to read
About the author
Angelique Bosman
15 books82 followersAngelique Bosman published her debut novel in May 2019 after finally trading procrastination for plot twists. Since then, she’s released more books, including the romantic comedy Swipe To Love, which has left readers laughing out loud and swiping right on love.
She’s a confessed pen hoarder, part-time daydreamer, and firm believer that writer’s block was probably her invention. A big fan of cheesy romance films, Angelique has been known to swoon unapologetically over Ryan Gosling scenes and happily ever after.
Her writing blends sweet romance with humor. Whether she’s curled up with a coffee and a good book or brainstorming the next chaotic scenario for her characters, storytelling is her happy place.
Catch her at www.angb.co.za or on Instagram @angelique.bosman.author.
She’s a confessed pen hoarder, part-time daydreamer, and firm believer that writer’s block was probably her invention. A big fan of cheesy romance films, Angelique has been known to swoon unapologetically over Ryan Gosling scenes and happily ever after.
Her writing blends sweet romance with humor. Whether she’s curled up with a coffee and a good book or brainstorming the next chaotic scenario for her characters, storytelling is her happy place.
Catch her at www.angb.co.za or on Instagram @angelique.bosman.author.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
November 16, 2021
Resilience, Faith and Willpower...
While in Hospital for the second time starting my journey to recovery, I finished reading 'What the Heart wants'. This story was a blessing, a friendly reminder of my own obstacles I have faced and how love, resilience, faith and willpower can overcome even the hardest obsticles.
Thank you for a Beautiful story Angie.
P.s How awesome is it that I'm one of the characters in this book!!!!!
While in Hospital for the second time starting my journey to recovery, I finished reading 'What the Heart wants'. This story was a blessing, a friendly reminder of my own obstacles I have faced and how love, resilience, faith and willpower can overcome even the hardest obsticles.
Thank you for a Beautiful story Angie.
P.s How awesome is it that I'm one of the characters in this book!!!!!
January 13, 2020
Willow is set to marry Clay. This is not the wedding or life that her parents want for her. But it's exactly what she wants. Shortly before the wedding, she's in a serious car accident, spends a month in a medically-induced coma, and wakes up with no memory of the accident. Unable to walk, she locates a facility dedicated to rehab, both physical and memory. Clay's messages to her while she's gone seem like he's talking to a friend, not the woman he's waiting to marry. And he hasn't yet made time to visit her. As she gains strength, she begins to spend a little time with Jeremy, the son of Nora, her rehab nurse, and learns about his farm. There's serious attraction between them, but she's going to marry Clay as soon as she's better. She just hasn't told Jeremy about Clay yet. What happens when they find out about each other? Does she still proceed with the wedding? This is a fabulous book. It bothered me that Willow's parents didn't visit her in rehab, but early in the book, they're described as being rather self-absorbed and extremely interested in "appearances". Nora is just so wonderful and supportive. She didn't just help Willow heal physically, but gave her a lot of things to think about regarding her future. When Willow's memory from the night of the accident comes back, her decision is made. She WILL have a happy ending. But who will it be with?
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 15, 2019
This is the first book I have read by Ang. B and it didn't disappoint.
From the first page I was entranced by the story.
What the heart wants is a sweet romance, with a few twists and turn that u don't expect.
Amazing job. Well written. Great story line.
From the first page I was entranced by the story.
What the heart wants is a sweet romance, with a few twists and turn that u don't expect.
Amazing job. Well written. Great story line.
October 22, 2019
Wow... That is all that needs to be said.... This writer knows how to keep me on my toes. Just when I think I know what's going to happen.... Twist!!
July 6, 2020
I enjoyed this story with its twists and turns!
And I'm always a sucker for a good, happy ending!
And I'm always a sucker for a good, happy ending!
January 16, 2020
The bed's getting cold and you're not here. The future that we hold is so unclear. But, I'm not alive until you call and I'll bet the odds against it all. Save your advice, 'cause I won't hear. You might be right, but I don't care. There's a million reasons why I should give you up, but the heart wants what it wants. The heart wants what it wants. - Selena Gomez
Your singing the song in your head, aren't you? I couldn't resist using the song in the review, especially since it is very fitting for the book. I didn't have very high expectations for this book when I started reading it. It seemed overly cliched and boring. I thought I knew how the book was going to end. At first, it looks a lot like a second The Vow. I love The Vow but we've been there and got the merch. It didn't look very original. Then, I continued to read the book because I made a promise to read it and write an honest review about it. I am glad I did. It turns out it wasn't a second anything. It was a refreshing new read. I can't wait to read more of her books.
I loved the humor she added throughout the book, especially at the end. The book was very refreshing to read. I loved Willow - it's important to have a plan B and to learn that life doesn't always work out as you want it. I had to learn this the hard way last year. I think this is why I found her to be very relatable and honest.
Your singing the song in your head, aren't you? I couldn't resist using the song in the review, especially since it is very fitting for the book. I didn't have very high expectations for this book when I started reading it. It seemed overly cliched and boring. I thought I knew how the book was going to end. At first, it looks a lot like a second The Vow. I love The Vow but we've been there and got the merch. It didn't look very original. Then, I continued to read the book because I made a promise to read it and write an honest review about it. I am glad I did. It turns out it wasn't a second anything. It was a refreshing new read. I can't wait to read more of her books.
I loved the humor she added throughout the book, especially at the end. The book was very refreshing to read. I loved Willow - it's important to have a plan B and to learn that life doesn't always work out as you want it. I had to learn this the hard way last year. I think this is why I found her to be very relatable and honest.
May 24, 2020
I am so privileged to be one of the first to read this amazing book! I cannot wait to get a copy! It's absolutely beautifully written with talent and imagination and a lot of effort put into it!
I absolutely loved it and can't wait for more work from Ang!
A beautiful dance who is a Bride to be seemed to shatter in pieces trying to bounce back after her accident. Her mother was a very controlling woman who wanted things her way and her friends, family and fiancé all seem to crave the old willow.
She was so determined, determined to bend without breaking when she signed up for rehabilitation hundreds of miles away from home, from everyone. She tried to do everything it takes to just be herself again to just feel and look like herself again but then she met Jeremy then son of her carer a country living expert. Jeremy is this amazing person who inspired her to be much more than just a future bride or a dancer he inspired he inspired her to be herself who she is now not wjo people want her to be, she never expected that this accident would change her life so much all her feelings and promises. What would you do if your fiance and the person you love is completely two different people?
I absolutely loved it and can't wait for more work from Ang!
A beautiful dance who is a Bride to be seemed to shatter in pieces trying to bounce back after her accident. Her mother was a very controlling woman who wanted things her way and her friends, family and fiancé all seem to crave the old willow.
She was so determined, determined to bend without breaking when she signed up for rehabilitation hundreds of miles away from home, from everyone. She tried to do everything it takes to just be herself again to just feel and look like herself again but then she met Jeremy then son of her carer a country living expert. Jeremy is this amazing person who inspired her to be much more than just a future bride or a dancer he inspired he inspired her to be herself who she is now not wjo people want her to be, she never expected that this accident would change her life so much all her feelings and promises. What would you do if your fiance and the person you love is completely two different people?
October 5, 2019
Ang B is a new author to me, but this definitely won't be my last story of hers. I was lucky enough to beta read this story, and I'm so pleased I was given the chance!
What The Heart Wants is such a beautiful story, telling the tale of Willow, a dancer and Bride-to-be, and Jeremy, the son of a her career and handyman around the rehabilitation centre located in the country.
There are a few side characters, and one of them plays a vital role in Willow's life. I knew straight away that something was amiss, and I was right!
This story is such a sweet read. Ideal if you want something quick to get you through.
I was privileged enough to be told a few of the reasons behind this story, and I have to say, it makes me love it even more.
Ang is an amazing author who write romances with just the right amount of angst, and I can't wait for more!
What The Heart Wants is such a beautiful story, telling the tale of Willow, a dancer and Bride-to-be, and Jeremy, the son of a her career and handyman around the rehabilitation centre located in the country.
There are a few side characters, and one of them plays a vital role in Willow's life. I knew straight away that something was amiss, and I was right!
This story is such a sweet read. Ideal if you want something quick to get you through.
I was privileged enough to be told a few of the reasons behind this story, and I have to say, it makes me love it even more.
Ang is an amazing author who write romances with just the right amount of angst, and I can't wait for more!
October 17, 2020
Captivating: a real breath of fresh air!
“What The Heart Wants” is my second novel by this author, and it does not disappoint! It is the absolute perfect Contemporary Romance and so much more. Many words come to mind: captivating, heart-wrenching, charming, emotional, but mostly brilliant!
This beautiful tale of defeating obstacles, fate, finding your true self, and above all love, stars a strong heroine at a crossroads. With her heart and mind at odds, Willow does what she thinks is honorable, yet, sometimes, God has another fate planned for us—a destiny precisely where we should be and exactly what the heart wants!
This book is flawless, with an “omg” plot twist, and I applaud this author and her magnificent talent for storytelling!
“What The Heart Wants” is my second novel by this author, and it does not disappoint! It is the absolute perfect Contemporary Romance and so much more. Many words come to mind: captivating, heart-wrenching, charming, emotional, but mostly brilliant!
This beautiful tale of defeating obstacles, fate, finding your true self, and above all love, stars a strong heroine at a crossroads. With her heart and mind at odds, Willow does what she thinks is honorable, yet, sometimes, God has another fate planned for us—a destiny precisely where we should be and exactly what the heart wants!
This book is flawless, with an “omg” plot twist, and I applaud this author and her magnificent talent for storytelling!
November 27, 2019
Ang’s book took me out of my usual environment of thrillers and placed me into the middle of a story that tells the tale of the endless boundaries of romance. Following the story of Willow, being with her step by step through all that happened to her and feeling all the emotions alongside her - that is what Ang’s writing gives you. If you are ready to be swept into a world of discovering real heartwarming love - I highly recommend you read her beautifully written story.
May 25, 2020
Another great book by Ang B. I have read all of her books, and have not been disappointed. This book was so much fun to read. There were sad parts as well where you feel like crying because you feel the character's pain. The book had everything a reader needs to keep them turning the pages. I look forward to her next book, I know I will completely be satisfied when I have turned the last page. Keep those books coming Ang B.!
January 13, 2020
What the Heart Wants is a heartbreaking and emotional story that is beautifully written.
The characters are charming, lovable, and relatable. The storyline is one of a body that needs to be healed and a heart that needs to make a decision.
What do you do when the man that you are engaged to and the one that owns your heart is two different people?
I absolutely loved this romance story and cannot wait to read more books by this author.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.
The characters are charming, lovable, and relatable. The storyline is one of a body that needs to be healed and a heart that needs to make a decision.
What do you do when the man that you are engaged to and the one that owns your heart is two different people?
I absolutely loved this romance story and cannot wait to read more books by this author.
I read and reviewed this book with no obligation.
October 1, 2019
Ahhh It was just too cute !!!! I mean there was some serious drama and ang B really had me guessing till the end and although I was a little heartbrroken myself I was soooooooo happy to have read it. Definitely a new fav.
March 22, 2020
Once i started to read i can't put it down. A lovely romance and good characters. And who she ends up with was her choice. Follow your heart and not what others want. And now i wait patiently for the next book :-)
October 20, 2019
When you wake up with a link to read a new book by Ang B you call in sick. You wont be able to put it down. This book is a must have on your reading list. What are you WAITING FOR?????????? 👀🙌
November 12, 2019
I had the privilege to read What the heart wants. A very good read indeed. Could not put it down. I was very impressed. Would recommend it highly. I give it 5 stars.
November 22, 2019
Great book. Ang B never disappoints... Love the unexpected twist in the story line! Couldn't put the book down (as with Remember Me)! Can't wait for the next book!
January 10, 2020
What a lovely read! Couldn't put the book down until the end!
January 13, 2020
This was truly and amazing book I would like to tell the Author great one And hope more to come from Angie B
October 17, 2019
A truely refreshing romance.
A new to me author, Ang B had me in all sorts of emotions while reading What The Heart Wants. It was a read I found myself lost in more times than not and one I can't wait to go back for more.
Willows life seemed to be so perfect, just how she'd planned it out and just what she always wanted.
Until she's faced with the unexpected and left with a shell of her old self. Confronting friends and family becomes too overbearing for Willow as she's forced to figure out who she is; making a decision that moved her miles away from everyone seemed to be just what she needed.
Rehab on a farm seems too good to be true right, well turns out it is when she finds herself all flustered over the hot farm boy, Jeremy.
Can Willow accept these new feelings in her heart or will she crave her old life and go back to what she once had and forget what could have been?
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Willow's story. I became so drawn to the the characters and all the twists along the way that I found myself on the edge of my seat and in total awe. This is a highly satisfying romance.
It comes recommended.
A new to me author, Ang B had me in all sorts of emotions while reading What The Heart Wants. It was a read I found myself lost in more times than not and one I can't wait to go back for more.
Willows life seemed to be so perfect, just how she'd planned it out and just what she always wanted.
Until she's faced with the unexpected and left with a shell of her old self. Confronting friends and family becomes too overbearing for Willow as she's forced to figure out who she is; making a decision that moved her miles away from everyone seemed to be just what she needed.
Rehab on a farm seems too good to be true right, well turns out it is when she finds herself all flustered over the hot farm boy, Jeremy.
Can Willow accept these new feelings in her heart or will she crave her old life and go back to what she once had and forget what could have been?
I thoroughly enjoyed reading Willow's story. I became so drawn to the the characters and all the twists along the way that I found myself on the edge of my seat and in total awe. This is a highly satisfying romance.
It comes recommended.
December 18, 2019
I was lucky enough to receive an advanced copy of this book from the author. And I’m so glad I did. I really enjoyed this sweet romance. It was a cute love story with just enough angst to keep you turning the pages. There was a few little twists that I didn’t see coming and one guy certainly stood out and had me swooning. Ang gives her main character a unique voice that jumps off the pages and makes you feel for her and the struggle she endures. If you enjoy a story that tugs at your heart a little, whilst giving you a toothache from how sweet it is then give this one a go. You won’t be disappointed. Great work, Ang!
March 2, 2022
Sweet and captivating
Angelique did it again with another heart warming butterflies in your stomach story. This book kept me guessing as do all her books till the very end when I got to jump out of my seat and say I Knew it!! This was the first book I ever read that had me dangling between two main men I just couldn’t decide of course until the very end. This is a must read and I highly recommend!
Angelique did it again with another heart warming butterflies in your stomach story. This book kept me guessing as do all her books till the very end when I got to jump out of my seat and say I Knew it!! This was the first book I ever read that had me dangling between two main men I just couldn’t decide of course until the very end. This is a must read and I highly recommend!
October 28, 2019
The problem with Ang B's books are that as soon as you finish one, you count the minutes, days, weeks, months till the next one. She has definitely become one of my favourite romance novelists. She has a knack of incorporating interesting twists that the reader does not expect. Really an enjoyable read. My countdown has began for the next one.
November 12, 2019
Excellent, just enough To keep me spell bound and wanting to know the outcome. Also emotional at times as I lived myself into the role of this bright girl having everything going for her and to have the mat just pulled out from under her. I was pleasantly surprised at how much the writer grew from book 1 to book 2. Looking forward to reading book 3.
January 19, 2020
I finished this book in one sitting! It's a nice, easy-to-read story about a strong female lead who puts herself together after her life falls apart -- with the help of some great side-characters. I did not expect the twist toward the end, great job! I would have liked more detail and more dialogue here and there, but it's an overall very enjoyable read.
January 23, 2020
As the first novel, I enjoyed this book. Its so easy to read and follow and I can see the writer's growth in her skill to elaborate and explain scenarios. I loved the plot and the endearing twist of the ranch's name echoed in the leading lady's name. Well done Mrs Bosman.... I am waiting with bated breath for your third. Love you.
January 5, 2020
The book is a good sweet romance read. The story has a good story line. The characters are good, and they have good chemistry.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 26, 2020
This was a sweet, slow burn love story about second chances, and missed opportunities.
This was a great read. The story was very well written with great characters. The story drew me in and I had it finished in one sitting. I would highly recommend this read.
This was a great read. The story was very well written with great characters. The story drew me in and I had it finished in one sitting. I would highly recommend this read.
June 10, 2025
As a BETA reader for this absolute masterpiece, I can confidently say: this story has my heart and soul.
Angelique Bosman has crafted a romance that is equal parts healing and sweet, layered with raw emotion and beautifully written depth. It’s a journey of love, forgiveness, and finding light after the darkest storms. This is a Hallmark-worthy read. If you love the charm of small-town country life -this is it. From quiet moments in the countryside to emotional reckonings, This Story delivers. This book is more than a romance—it’s a heartfelt exploration of life’s highs and lows, touching on the pain of loss, the ache of betrayal, the slow process of healing, and the quiet resilience we find within ourselves when we need it most.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – A heartfelt, wholesome read that beautifully blends sweet romance with emotional truth. Angelique has created something truly special—and I’m so honoured to have been part of its journey as a beta reader.
Angelique Bosman has crafted a romance that is equal parts healing and sweet, layered with raw emotion and beautifully written depth. It’s a journey of love, forgiveness, and finding light after the darkest storms. This is a Hallmark-worthy read. If you love the charm of small-town country life -this is it. From quiet moments in the countryside to emotional reckonings, This Story delivers. This book is more than a romance—it’s a heartfelt exploration of life’s highs and lows, touching on the pain of loss, the ache of betrayal, the slow process of healing, and the quiet resilience we find within ourselves when we need it most.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ – A heartfelt, wholesome read that beautifully blends sweet romance with emotional truth. Angelique has created something truly special—and I’m so honoured to have been part of its journey as a beta reader.
June 29, 2025
Note: I had the privilege of reading the updated re-release of this story (I had not read the first version.
This was my first book from Angelique. The story captured my attention from the beginning, and I read it easily in a few hours. Being a therapist myself, I was captivated by the idea of a specialized rehabilitation center that focuses on one patient at a time, and the FMC, Willow, desperately needed a quiet, peaceful place to recover after a devastating spinal cord injury a week before her wedding. She also suffered from amnesia, and she felt as if she didn't fit into her life anymore. What does that mean for her marriage?
There are some large transitions in the story as it covers Willow's rehabilitation, and a bit of a gap as she struggles to recover her memory and make sense in her life. There is a rather big twist at the end (I really wondered if that was how it would shake out) that sends Willow into an unexpected direction. It was hard to know what I wanted to happen in the story beyond her recovery because some of her relationships are (intentionally) confusing, but I was satisfied with her happy ending and that she finds the peace she so desired.
Thank you, Angelique, for asking me to read your story. I received a complimentary copy to read and review. All thoughts contained here are my own.
This was my first book from Angelique. The story captured my attention from the beginning, and I read it easily in a few hours. Being a therapist myself, I was captivated by the idea of a specialized rehabilitation center that focuses on one patient at a time, and the FMC, Willow, desperately needed a quiet, peaceful place to recover after a devastating spinal cord injury a week before her wedding. She also suffered from amnesia, and she felt as if she didn't fit into her life anymore. What does that mean for her marriage?
There are some large transitions in the story as it covers Willow's rehabilitation, and a bit of a gap as she struggles to recover her memory and make sense in her life. There is a rather big twist at the end (I really wondered if that was how it would shake out) that sends Willow into an unexpected direction. It was hard to know what I wanted to happen in the story beyond her recovery because some of her relationships are (intentionally) confusing, but I was satisfied with her happy ending and that she finds the peace she so desired.
Thank you, Angelique, for asking me to read your story. I received a complimentary copy to read and review. All thoughts contained here are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews