The genie is out of the bottle. After decades of secrecy, Stella has finally made her resort’s natural hot springs available to guests. Little does she know, the waters have magical healing powers. Not only do the springs cure physical ailments, but matters of the heart as well. When word gets out, she has a riot of opportunity seekers on her hands.
Presley could use a bit of that healing magic. She returns to the inn for an unexpected visit, pregnant, planning to stay for the summer, and refusing to talk about her new husband. Did she leave Everett’s concert tour because of the pregnancy? Or is there trouble in paradise already?
Also on a collision course are Cecily and Lyle who’ve been living together for six months. Things aren’t working out as they’d hoped. Their separate roads in life rarely cross. Cecily knows she may have to yield if their paths are to merge. But at what cost? Is she willing to give up the career she’s worked so hard for?
Ollie is new on staff, hired by Stella to manage the Wellness Center. After a messy divorce and losing her family’s vineyard in a fire, she’s moved from California to Hope Springs in search of a fresh start. Most newcomers to Hope Springs are running, hiding, or searching. In Ollie’s case, it’s all three.
The magical healing waters of Hope Springs are powerful. But are they enough to set this group of sojourners on the paths that will lead to their ultimate happiness?
⭐️USA Today Bestseller⭐️ Ashley Farley writes heartfelt stories about women navigating life’s challenges. Her characters—mothers, daughters, sisters, and wives—face real-life struggles with resilience and grace. Best known for her Sweeney Sisters series, Ashley’s books have touched the hearts of readers far and wide.
A wife and mother of two young adults, for more than two decades, Ashley has split her time between Richmond and the Northern Neck of Virginia. Yet, a piece of her heart will always belong to the South Carolina Lowcountry, where she draws inspiration from the moss-draped oaks, coastal cuisine, and the warm, welcoming spirit of its people.
Accomplished and highly acclaimed women’s fiction author Ashley Farley has released Book 4 of her Hope Springs Series. It is not to be missed! She has included all of the beloved characters readers have come to love in this edition. Farley’s plot is dynamic as it has everything a reader could want — a Governor’s Daughter’s Wedding that will require the best of everyone and include one of the nation’s top bands at the reception (if they can survive Bridezilla), a mystery surrounding the mineral water in the newly opening Spa, a health scare, family drama all around, love fading and love flaring and the threat of death to one character is more than a feeling.
This is Farley doing what she does best. Writing books about women for women. Her characters are mothers, daughters, sisters, and wives facing real-life issues.
It is time to journey back to Hope Springs Farm and discover what the ladies are up to at the resort.
This series has all the feels and deals with many life-altering issues and how some might handle the various situations. The book is told from multiple points of view and we get a look into what each woman is dealing with outside of her job at Hope Springs Farm.
Ollie is running from a tragic accident that happened at the family home in California and it is causing her massive anxiety. I like that Ollie tries to find other ways to handle the anxiety outside of prescriptions. She is put in a situation near the end that reveals a lot about what happened previously that is causing all of this anxiety. I wasn't too surprised at how one part of her story turned out because I suspected something wasn't quite right with what happened in California and there was more to the story than we knew.
Presley has returned to be around friends and family while her husband is on the road performing. Since she is pregnant, I totally understand how traveling with a musician could be hard on her and not the best way to go through a pregnancy. Both Presley and Everett need to learn to compromise and figure out the best way to be married, have a child, and not let life rip them apart. I think there is more to come in their story because it is not resolved in this book. She is also trying to reconnect with her birth mother but that is not going well for the most part.
Cecily is passionate about her career as a chef, but I don't think her fiance Lyle understands. We learn more about their relationship and why it isn't working. You have to be on the same page in all areas of life to really have a successful relationship. I won't spoil what happens but it is a good thing!
Stella has worked hard to bring this resort back to life and she is nearing the end of the renovations and this has her a little stir crazy. Plus, she is discovering information about the mineral baths that she didn't know and it is causing a frenzy that is about to drive everyone crazy. I love how we get a peek at some journals from the past that gives us more details about the resort.
This book felt a little heavier than the others because all of these women are dealing with issues that are weighing them down. Some are resolved in this book and I imagine the rest will be resolved in the final book due out a little later this year. Despite the seriousness of some of the issues, I still found myself engrossed in the story and I felt like I was right there at the resort with these ladies. There are some funny moments with a bridezilla, but heartwarming as well when this bride realizes that life is about to change and she needs to go with the flow.
I always love the wisdom that comes from Opal and Jack, they are such wise souls and help ground these women when they need it.
I love this series and do recommend reading it in order to follow the paths of these women. I can't wait for the final book in this series, but I will also be a little sad because it means no more looks into the going on's at Hope Springs Farm.
Reading Ashley Farley's Hope Springs Series is a wonderful way to get lost in another world—the setting is absolutely beautiful and it is full of a world full of interesting, memorable characters. Matters of the Heart is book #4 is this amazing series. I've loved each one of the stories and I find myself becoming more deeply entrenched in all of their lives the further I go into their worlds.
Each book introduces a new character or two and I love discovering how they will fit into this close-knit group. Ollie shows up with something to hide but quickly makes herself invaluable to the place and to the people. In true Hope Springs manner, the troops gather around and take care of their own. And like at every resort, there are always the interesting, sometimes troublesome, guests. But that make the stories even more interesting.
There is growth in the characters within the series, there are ups and definite downs, there is drama, and there is love. This is a very entertaining series and I have become so attached to everyone that I feel like they are my friends now. I can't wait to see what happens next with the Hope Springs gang.
I love Matters of the Heart and this whole series! I haven't read a book by Ashley Farley that I haven't just adored and I highly recommend this one.
Ashley Farley’s books all have gorgeous covers, and in the three years I’ve been reading her books, I’ve learned you CAN judge her books by the covers!!
Matters of the Heart is the latest in the Hope Springs series as we revisit Stella and her family and friends!!
I was sad to see some of the things our friends Presley and Cecily were dealing with. Life is not easy for them right now as they both face huge decisions on their relationships. However they have each other and their friends to lean on and help them through. Nothing is too much for Stella when it comes to her friends.
Ollie is also dealing with someone from her past coming to haunt her. I was proud of her as she stood up to her nemesis! She’s a tough lady!!
We still lean on Opal’s words of wisdom and Jack’s awesomeness!! Jazz is thriving under Stella and Jack’s care!!
I enjoyed the mystery surrounding the miracle waters and we all would love something like that to be true!!
The thing I love about this series as well as all of Ashley’s series is the message that you can get through anything as long as you have your friends and family to help you through!!
Great series by an awesome author and lady who is busy taking care of her own family and momma and entertains us all!!
It was wonderful to go back to Hope Springs and see what's going on with all of our old friends from the previous books in this series. Ashley writes such great characters that I feel like I was spending time with old friends.
Business is fantastic at Hope Springs and the resort is rented out for several months in the future. They Stella and her staff have added many changes to Hope Springs. One of the main new attractions are the natural hot springs that are available to the resort's guests. It becomes apparent that the springs can cure physical ailments and the female staff begin to wonder if it can also cure matters of the heart...because right now almost all of them have issues with love - boyfriends, husbands, sisters.
The main women in the novel are
Presley is pregnant and planning to stay for the summer while her country music superstar husband is on tour. There is a lot of strain between them and she begins to wonder if he's having an affair and if they have a future with each other?
Cecily has left her boyfriend because they have totally different goals in life and their paths toward the future is in opposite directions
Ollie manages the Wellness center and is mentally recovering from the loss of her parents in a fire and her divorce. She's moved from California to try to make a new start in her life but her past keeps her from enjoying the present.
As these friends try to help each other, they meet at the hot springs regularly. Is it the mineral springs that are making their lives better and less complicated or the friendship has developed between them the real reason for their matters of the heart?
This book (and the entire series) has it all -- friendship, love, problems with families, reconciliation, mystery. As always, Ashley has brought wonderful characters into a book that you don't want to put down. She writes books about women for women. Her characters are mothers, daughters, sisters and wives that deal with real life issues.
Thanks to the author for a copy of this book to read and review.
Grab your fav beverage (mine is ice tea) , find a perfect reading spot and enjoy immersing yourself in this wonderful read. Fav characters are back as well as a few new faces, friendships are forged, emotions and matters of the heart are revealed. There is even a bit of magic for those who believe the springs heal. This author knows women, always come away with a heart full, smiling and content with each of her stories.
Ashley Farley has written another 5 star book. Matters of the Heart is her newest book in the Hope Spring series! WOW! Ms. Farley continues the stories of characters from previous novels such as Stella, Opal, Cecily, and Presley. The women continue to grow and overcome obstacles, both personal and work related. The new characters, Ollie, Peaches, and Fiona are strong women with demons to vanquish. Ashley Farley continues to write about women facing their problems and finally conquering the past to achieve their full potential. Thanks to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review!
Hope Springs is thriving! This is the fourth book in the Hope Springs series and it has it all. Love, friendship, family, suspense, and some magic healing waters in the spring! Yes- Magic! The hot spring is now ready for guests and it is more than relaxing. It seems to have some real beneficial properties that everyone is anxious to have. Will it really cure illness, anxiety and matters of the heart? People all over the world are coming to see the spring, have their weddings and vacation here!
The ladies under Stella's direction are working hard to accommodate everyone. Their lives have changed in many ways of late, not all for the better and they need each other more than ever. Friendship is the glue here at the inn. It is a magical place to work, live and visit.
The moment I started this book, I went right back into the series with ease and was extremely happy to return to Hope Spring with both new and old characters.
I am anxiously awaiting the next novel in this series to check on everyone!
This book was so good! I couldn’t put it down. It was nice reconnecting with the characters from the previous books. It’s like catching up with old friends plus making some new ones. I enjoyed the story and can’t wait for the next one. Thanks to the author for the early copy
Thank you Kate Rock Book Tours and the author for a complimentary copy. I voluntarily reviewed this book. All opinions expressed are my own.
MATTERS OF THE HEART (HOPE SPRINGS #4) By: Ashley Farley
REVIEW
"Can you imagine what this could mean for the spa and the farm if the water does have healing powers?"
There must be something in the (hot springs) water at Hope Springs Farm. Perhaps some medicinal magic for what ails you? Maybe it's the power of positive thinking or a total hoax. Will this potential cure all cause a chaotic free for all? For the sake of our beloved characters, let's hope not.
Speaking of which, how are Stella, Cecily, Presley and Ollie faring? The story is narrated through their four different perspectives giving readers front row seats to all of the action, as well as glimpses at favorite secondary characters. I think this style of storytelling suits this book well. Numerous situations are constantly developing and evolving, so one point of view would never be sufficient. As it stands, the story structure flows pleasantly and in a succinct manner from one voice to another, and nothing is overlooked or forgotten.
Stella is still learning what it means to be a proprietor. Cecily fears she and her fiance, Lyle, may be on diverging paths. Presley is pregnant and questioning what her musician husband, Everett, does when she is away. Ollie is divorced and guarded because of her past. Additionally, family troubles abound and bridezilla is in residence.
"She's not afraid of taking the road less traveled. She's more afraid of arriving at the wrong destination."
Don't you feel that way sometimes? Thankfully, through every trial, these women stand steadfastly by each other and offer help in any way possible. New friendships are forged in the hot summer sun. Some situations must be dealt with alone, but the support system after makes all the difference.
"It's life. We're all on our journeys. Some roads are smoother than others."
At its core, this story is a testament to the power of women, both individually and collectively, and the strength of female bonds. Ashley Farley writes about life, love, pitfalls and aspirations with grace and humor. MATTERS OF THE HEART is not all light or too heavy, rather, it falls in between where most of us live real life. I don't have friends like these girls, but I wish I did!
This is book #4 in the Hope Springs series. If you've read the first 3 books, which I highly recommend, you'll love revisiting Hope Springs and catching up with Stella, Presley, Cecily and meeting Ollie.
The Inn is thriving, and busier than ever. Stella and Jack have moved into their new house and in the process of adopting Jazz. Cicily and Lyle postponed their wedding, and are dealing with several important life decisions. Presley and Everett are married, however, he's a successful country music star, on tour so Presley has come back for a visit to Hope Springs, where it feels like home.
The Wellness Center is complete and Olivia, known as Ollie, is hired to manage it. The most popular treatment is a soak in one of the mineral tubs, however, as the result of a claim of healing, that even makes the evening news, there is a sudden interest in the mineral water that is pumped up from the natural hot springs. Ollie, who is balancing the varied responsibilities of the Wellness Center is also privately dealing with some important personal issues of her own.
Presley's visit is timely as they just accepted a huge, very large, lavish wedding for Peaches, the latest bridezilla. The wedding is only in a few weeks so Presley is pulled back into the role of event planner, to work along with Amelia, the Inn's new planner to help with the over-the-top wedding and the challenges of having Peaches there daily since she decided to stay at the Inn until the wedding.
Because of Ashely's amazing gift of character development, I truly felt I was visiting some old friends, which made putting the book down nearly impossible.
Even though this is the fourth bookninnthe series, it can be read as a stand alone. I highly recommend you read the first three as the characters in The Hope Spring Series are like your friends. You will become invested in their lives.
Stella inherited The Hope Springs Inn from her father. She has married Jack, fixed all the cottages in cottage row, added bedrooms to the caretaker house and opened The Wellness Center. When people start being cured by sitting in the Spring, Stella faces a rush of people wanting to be cured.
Ollie grew up on a winery and after the tragic death of her parents, she is hired to run the Wellness Center. But her past will come back to haunt her.
Presley is pregnant and decides she wants to return to Hope Springs while her husband Everett is on tour. She is once again the head advent planner and must satisfy the Bridezilla Peaches.
Cecily is head chef at Hope Springs and is informed by Stella that Peaches friend Fiona is going to be working on all the food for the wedding. Can the get along? Cecily is also having love life troubles. Seems Lyle and Cecily are growing apart.
There is so much more going on with the women of Hope Springs. Matters of the Heart is full of love, family, and mystery. I am also excited that this is not the last book in this series! ROAD TO NEW BEGINNINGS will be available in March!
Every time I start to review one of Ashley's books I sit and ponder about how to word it, enough to do the author & story justice. I have read all of Ashley's books over the last several years. I can always relate to at least one of the characters in each of her books. She has a way of writing true life, family drama, family and friendship relationships, & suspenseful situations that make every readers heart want more.
The Hope Springs series is no different. I love all of the characters and the dynamics of their relationships even when times are difficult for them. The Hope Springs series tackles difficult topics such as addiction, rape, abuse, yet somehow always giving us hope that things will work out in the end. I know that's not the reality for some situations, but in this series you long for things to work out for the characters you come to love and root for over time. If you haven't read this series I highly recommend it. Allow Stella, Opal, Brian, Cecily, Presley, & Ollie to take you for a tour of Hope Springs and I guarantee you'll love them all in no time. Every one of their stories is captivating and may just give you a glimmer of hope as well!
Stella and the women at Hope Springs resort, start the Matters of the heart club, as they sit in the natural hot springs. The hot springs have always been a secret, but when Stella opens it up to the guest, we see what happens. The women come together, put out the fires, talk about what is going on in their lives, facing the uncertainty in their own lives, and moving forward in their lives. Hope Springs has grown, but so have the women that work there. They each have a job to do, but they also have a friendship that connects them through their hearts. They are living life, with the ups and downs, the uncertainty, the doubts, the good moments, and life moves forward. As life moves the business and themselves forward, we see they come together, to listen, to find answers that need to be answered, and the strength they find when they need it most. As I read the book, matters of the heart means something different to each one of the women, but they are there for each other, and sometimes, that is all someone needs.
I have a lot of favorite authors. Probably almost 30 of them and Ashely Farley is one of that group. I like each of them for a different reason. Matters of the Heart by Ashley Farley is a prime example of why I love her books. When I pick up one of her books, I know I want to find a quiet and comfortable place to settle in with my tablet and a cup of tea. I know I’m going to be there for a while. I can’t help myself. She writes such lovely women’s fiction. From the moment I open the book, I’m drawn into the atmosphere and the lives of the characters.
Matters of the Heart is the fourh installment of the Hope Springs Series. Can I tell you that I am axious for the fifth book to come out? I thought I read this was the last one but, I can’t find any confirmation of that. There has to be another addition to the series because I can’t see it ending here. I love these characters and need to see where their lives end up. This book ended nicely but, there has to be more. I love them so much. I want to see everyone grow and expand themselves. If you’ve read any of this series, you are probably as in love with Jazz as I am. What a cute little girl! I know we don’t get all of what we want out of life and our books but, I want it all in this series. There is something that compells me to want most of it to turn out like I want it. Will that happen? Time will tell!
If you love books about family, friends and all the heartache and love that goes with that, you will gravitate to this series like I have. I have loved it from page one of the first book! These books should probably be read in order. I think that is the only way to keep the characters straight and to know what the background is of the story. They are not terribly long books and you will not have tons of time devoted to them. They will leave you with a warmth in your heart that will stay with you long after you have finished the books.
I received a complimentary copy of this book from the author. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.
Ashley Farley really has me invested in the lives of Stella, Ollie, Cecily, Presley, and the rest of the people in Hope Springs. Which is why I jumped at the chance to read Matters of the Heart is book #4 in the Hope Spring Series by Ashley Farley. What's so great about this series is you can read the books as a stand alone and won't be lost but I bet you'll want to take a book vacation and read the rest of the series because the characters are so wonderful you'll wanna get to reading more about them. This book had so much to offer both new and old wonderful characters in a great setting you feel quickly transported to while reading. The title really sums up all the feels you'll get from reading about everything to do with realtionships & everything inbetween them even a bit of magic.
Thank you Ashley Farley and Kate Rock Books for my ARC of Matters of the Heart and for having me be part of your wonderful book tour.
As always my reviews are my honest opinions and spoiler free!
This book is the 4th book in The Hope Spring Series. It was so fun catching up with the characters and finding out what was happening with the resort. Several women have different relationship and family dilemmas outside of their jobs at Hope Spring farms. Some of their issues were resolved in this novel and some were not so I am really looking forward to the 5th book in this series. While this could probably be read as a standalone, I recommend reading the entire series to get a richer reading experience and more background on the characters and setting.
Ashley Farley’s books are comfort reads for me. They are easy to read, the characters are relatable, there is substance to the story and they are always enjoyable.
Thank you so much to @katerockbooktours for introducing me to this author!
Matters of the Heart by Ashley Farley is book four of the Hope Spring Series! I haven’t read the first three books, but I absolutely adored this one! Stella runs a resort that has been in her family for years. She’s found an amazing group of women to help run each department. Each woman is complex and has their own flaws but they are all stiving to be the best person they can be. The hot springs may or may not have magical healing powers, but they have brought these women together to form a strong friendship. These kinds of stories are always a fun read for me, I adore books about friendship and I’m excited to check out the other books in this series by @ashleyfarleyauthor. Thank you so so much for the gifted chocolate, tea and this wonderful book @katerockbooktours! Matters of the Heart published earlier this month and you can find this on our Amazon Storefront!!🧜🏼♀️🌺 .
The fourth in the Hope Springs series and just as amazing as the previous. Thank you to Kate Rock and Ashley for having me on the tour! I feel so blessed to be able to share wonderful reads.
This installment we have Presley coming back to rent a cottage for the summer. She left Everett’s country tour and it leaves the others wondering what’s going on. Stella finally opens up the springs and magic starts to happen but, not everyone has pure motives.
I thoroughly enjoyed this one and for that it’s getting ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️. This series has been the perfect antidote for the craziness of this world. I love being able to get so into a book that I forget how things truly are. Y’all have to read this if ya haven’t yet!
Matters of the Heart is the 4th book in Ashley Farley's hope Springs series. Although previous storylines are referenced in this book, it can easily be read as a standalone. The cast of characters includes the fan favorites from the earlier books. Hearts are hurting, family drama is flaring, a vendetta turns vicious, love is not aways everlasting. The resort is a fairy tale setting but can the ladies get their fairy tale endings? It seems that the Hope Springs friends are in need of a big dose of hope. At its heart, this is a story about a group of women and their unique friendship. About support, healing, and hope. Ashley Farley is a masterful writer of women's fiction. Written by a woman, about women, and for women. Farley writes books that will touch your heart ❤️
Hope Springs Virginia This one was kinda drawn out. Could have combined 4/5 together. Lucy goes into Rehab after mental breakdown when finding out Rita and Brian were together. They are there for her when she gets out. Peyton comes back after being on the road with Everett, they are having troubles he has a new tour mate and it looks like they connect. She’s going to stay in HS till after she has baby, she’s not hearing much from Everett. Ciciley has new assistant chef. She moves out from Lyles house. And she has the vibes with Parker the new bartender. Stella finds out she is pregnant. Ollie comes out about her parents dining in a fire, she felt it was her fault. Her brother actually set it and wanted to kill them all. He comes to Virginia to finish the job, the security team get him.
This is book 4 in the Hope Springs Series. This can be read as a Stand alone but why would you. Once you read 1 you will be hooked and want to learn more about Stella Presley, Cecily and the rest of Hope Springs. This is such a wonderful series and have loved all of them. This is about old and new friends that become part of your family. This will pull at your heartstrings and you won't want to put it down. I am hoping Ashely will continue with the series but if not, I can't wait to see what she writes next. I just love all of her books.
Thank you to Ashley Farley for an advance copy of this book. This is my honest review and opinion.
Ashley Farley has a way with words in which she makes the setting so vivid in my mind as a reader and her characters so likeable. While I have missed a few books in this series, I did not find that I missed out on the story in this book. In fact, I need to go back and read them because I want more of Hope Springs, Stella and her friends. The support of each other and the way Stella manages her Inn was so heartwarming to read. I love the books where I, as a reader, feel like I'm hanging out with friends! There is also a little mystery and heart racing moments! Thank you Ashley Farley for an advanced copy! All thoughts and opinions are my own!
Another great read in this series! All of our favorite characters are back, and there are new ones, and the Inn is going strong, becoming a favorite place for weddings and more! There's some surprises when more is found out about the springs and the journals Stella found are read. There's relationship issues, friendship, family and more happening in this book. You definitely want to read the other books first because they're worth the read also plus it'll catch you up. I hope we get to visit with these characters in another book! A definite must read!
The Hope Springs series takes place in Virginia and the scenery is described so beautifully that I feel like I’m there myself. In this book, all of the Hope Springs characters come together and we are also introduced to Ollie who has her own unique story. Each woman comes to the inn to escape something or start anew and Stella is the momma hen taking care of everything. In this book, the main focus is the new hot springs which guests say have healing powers….. (say what?!, sign me up!). This is a series I could read over and over again. It’s a feel good story with so much true friendship.
While this is the fourth book in the series, it works fairly well as a standalone. That being said, I think I would've enjoyed it more had I read the previous books.
Stella inherits an inn whose hot springs may hold miraculous healing powers. What if the word got out about the springs?
I loved that this was about the relationships between Stella and her staff/friends; about their hardships and relationship issues, and of how these women band together and support each other through it all.
I definitely need to read the previous books, as well as continue on with the series.
The Hope Springs series just keeps getting better and better! Matters of the Heart lets us revisit Stella, Presley, Cecily, and the rest of the wonderful characters in Hope Springs. This book has so much heart and warmth with friends and friends who become family. I am hopeful that this series will continue. More please!!
Thank you to Ashley Farley for an advance copy of this book. This is my honest review and opinion.
I loved this book, this series. I love all the characters old and new and the friendships that are made. We all go through things but when you have good people to lean on and that have your back we can get through anything. I’m not the best book reviewer but I read a lot of books and this book / series is 5 stars. Ashley Farley is incredible and I’m so thankful I found her. I have read everyone of her books and she NEVER disappoints.
Book 4 of series but it stood alone very well. Still, it was so good I'm going to go back and read the other 2 books. Grabbed me from the beginning and held my interest. Loved all the characters, they were real life and I could identify with them.
4 stars
Thank you to the author for a copy of this book. The opinions expressed were my own.