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The Heart Remembers
One wedding. One ex. And one week of chaos that might just lead to forever.
Emma Smith closed the door on New Orleans and the painful memories it held long ago. But when her best friend’s wedding pulls her back to the vibrant city she swore she'd never revisit, a familiar voice on the plane sends a jolt through her. Suddenly, the memories of one unforgettable summer—and the woman who made it so special—flood back.
For Riley, life in New Orleans flows as smoothly as the Mississippi. The family business is her focus, and the dreams of her youth have settled into the past. Until Emma’s unexpected return.
Thrown together for a week of wedding celebrations, the spark between them reignites, unsettling Riley's carefully constructed contentment. But as laughter and old feelings resurface, so do the reasons Emma left. Can they seize their second chance at love, or are some wounds too deep to heal?
Emma Smith closed the door on New Orleans and the painful memories it held long ago. But when her best friend’s wedding pulls her back to the vibrant city she swore she'd never revisit, a familiar voice on the plane sends a jolt through her. Suddenly, the memories of one unforgettable summer—and the woman who made it so special—flood back.
For Riley, life in New Orleans flows as smoothly as the Mississippi. The family business is her focus, and the dreams of her youth have settled into the past. Until Emma’s unexpected return.
Thrown together for a week of wedding celebrations, the spark between them reignites, unsettling Riley's carefully constructed contentment. But as laughter and old feelings resurface, so do the reasons Emma left. Can they seize their second chance at love, or are some wounds too deep to heal?
278 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 1, 2025
90 people are currently reading
103 people want to read
About the author
Ally McGuire
16 books79 followersAward winning sapphic author ALLY MCGUIRE lives in the UK with her wife. She writes WLW fiction to escape into the far more pleasant world in her head. Echoes of the Heart releases May 1, 2026!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
November 5, 2025
**'Anytime you have an idea for your story, just sit and tell it because sometime that's the one and only thing that you might have to offer -- so make it enticing..'
3.5 stars!
An enjoyable storyline.
3.5 stars!
An enjoyable storyline.
June 17, 2025
Another wonderful read by Ally McGuire. I loved this angsty second-chance romance. From the beginning, the connection that the MCs have is beautiful.
I enjoyed the character development from all involved. They were real people that you wanted to be friends with.
Plenty of humor, tons of flirting and banter, another must read by Ally McGuire.
I enjoyed the character development from all involved. They were real people that you wanted to be friends with.
Plenty of humor, tons of flirting and banter, another must read by Ally McGuire.
June 18, 2025
The Heart Remembers by Ally McGuire is a lovely contemporary romance with beautiful setting imagery and a writing style that is fully immersive. I felt like I was right there with the cast of characters enjoying all that New Orleans has to offer.
This second-chance romance brings two high school sweethearts back together for a mutual friend's wedding. With the hometown visit and subsequent walk down memory lane, the two love interests realize the spark between them never fizzled.
Emma had very good reasons for leaving and for not wanting to return, and those reasons have not changed. Riley had very good reasons for staying, and they still exist. Will they find a middle where their love can grow?
I have several of this author's books on my TBR, but I haven't had a chance to read them yet, so I was excited to finally read one.
This was a win for me, as I enjoyed the interesting plot, the wonderful characters, the beautiful locale, the strong found family, the witty banter, and a thoroughly satisfying ending.
One of my favorite things was the way McGuire gave a detailed vision of New Orleans and its unique culture. She includes mentions of dialect and accents, food, scenes with alligators and other native animals, the water, the trees complete with Spanish moss, the heat, and reminders of the devastation from Hurricane Katrina. McGuire also emphasized a strong sense of community within the friend group and the city.
The career choices for the main characters were fun. Emma is a documentary filmmaker who travels the world and Riley helps run her family's large construction company.
This was a quick read with mid-level angst and spice. The epilogue is a rewarding happily-ever-after.
I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
#butch/femme #oppositesattract #highschoolsweethearts #secondchance #documentaryfilmmaker #constructionbusiness #Louisiana #NewOrleans #Boston #worldtravel #epilogue #HEA #foundfamily #supportivefamily #richgirl/poorgirl #forcedproximity #returnhome #wittybanter #midangst #midspice #senseofcommunity #rideordiebesties
I received a free ARC from the author. This is my honest opinion.
This second-chance romance brings two high school sweethearts back together for a mutual friend's wedding. With the hometown visit and subsequent walk down memory lane, the two love interests realize the spark between them never fizzled.
Emma had very good reasons for leaving and for not wanting to return, and those reasons have not changed. Riley had very good reasons for staying, and they still exist. Will they find a middle where their love can grow?
I have several of this author's books on my TBR, but I haven't had a chance to read them yet, so I was excited to finally read one.
This was a win for me, as I enjoyed the interesting plot, the wonderful characters, the beautiful locale, the strong found family, the witty banter, and a thoroughly satisfying ending.
One of my favorite things was the way McGuire gave a detailed vision of New Orleans and its unique culture. She includes mentions of dialect and accents, food, scenes with alligators and other native animals, the water, the trees complete with Spanish moss, the heat, and reminders of the devastation from Hurricane Katrina. McGuire also emphasized a strong sense of community within the friend group and the city.
The career choices for the main characters were fun. Emma is a documentary filmmaker who travels the world and Riley helps run her family's large construction company.
This was a quick read with mid-level angst and spice. The epilogue is a rewarding happily-ever-after.
I am looking forward to reading more from this author.
#butch/femme #oppositesattract #highschoolsweethearts #secondchance #documentaryfilmmaker #constructionbusiness #Louisiana #NewOrleans #Boston #worldtravel #epilogue #HEA #foundfamily #supportivefamily #richgirl/poorgirl #forcedproximity #returnhome #wittybanter #midangst #midspice #senseofcommunity #rideordiebesties
I received a free ARC from the author. This is my honest opinion.
September 15, 2025
Excellent story that had me hooked from beginning to end with excellent back characters both good and bad. Highly recommended.
June 17, 2025
Great start, middle and end and all bits in between. Pacing was perfect. I literally could not put it down..... I was totally engrossed in this world.
August 22, 2025
I LOVE THIS BOOK! A FAVORITE! This is the first book I've read by Ally McGuire and won't be the last. I fell in love with Emma and Riley! Emma left after graduating leaving broken hearted Riley. Ten years later, she's headed home to New Orleans for the 1st time for Belles' wedding (her BF).On the flight she hears a voice from the past, Riley, her high school girlfriend. They're both in Belles' wedding. Riley still lives and works in New Orleans. She's still in love with Emma.
And Emma's still in love with Riley. BUT, she doesn't want to live in New Orleans and Riley works in the family construction company.
This is a beautifully weaved second chance love story. 5 stars!!!
And Emma's still in love with Riley. BUT, she doesn't want to live in New Orleans and Riley works in the family construction company.
This is a beautifully weaved second chance love story. 5 stars!!!
October 27, 2025
3.75⭐️
Emma and Riley can't resist each other after being high school sweethearts; neither has really moved on. But Emma can't stand to be physically in a place that hurt her, and Riley wants to stay. I really liked Emma's backstory; that makes her really layered and deeply traumatized. Not even a successful career can save her from feeling like the poor girl she used to be. The chemistry was palpable, and both characters were likable. The week-long wedding events felt like a bubble, with more or less likable secondary characters, with sweet scenes and jealousy scenes that I liked. I liked them rekindling the flame, but they kind of fall back into each other's arms, and I wished to see more of them reconnect as grown-ups, rather than reliving the past as grow-ups.Despite the clear love they had for each other, their situation seemed impossible. That is why the resolution of the issues felt too easy in the end, especially Riley's professional situation, which was a bit blurry to me. They just decided to be together.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read.
Emma and Riley can't resist each other after being high school sweethearts; neither has really moved on. But Emma can't stand to be physically in a place that hurt her, and Riley wants to stay. I really liked Emma's backstory; that makes her really layered and deeply traumatized. Not even a successful career can save her from feeling like the poor girl she used to be. The chemistry was palpable, and both characters were likable. The week-long wedding events felt like a bubble, with more or less likable secondary characters, with sweet scenes and jealousy scenes that I liked. I liked them rekindling the flame, but they kind of fall back into each other's arms, and I wished to see more of them reconnect as grown-ups, rather than reliving the past as grow-ups.Despite the clear love they had for each other, their situation seemed impossible. That is why the resolution of the issues felt too easy in the end, especially Riley's professional situation, which was a bit blurry to me. They just decided to be together.
Overall, it was an enjoyable read.
June 15, 2025
What a page turner!! I couldn’t put this book down as it had me hooked from the first few paragraphs!!
The story of Emma and Riley really gripped me. Past love never forgotten, will there be second chance or will Emma’s past and Emma and Riley’s lives now keep them apart?
There is loads of emotions, chemistry and fun in this romance- Ally McGuire has done it again.
Superb writing that evokes all sorts of emotions for me. A particular line about a ‘pitchfork and mosquito spray’ made me laugh out loud as did Riley’s issues with gators!!
There’s also a cast of likeable, funny and a couple of not so likeable characters that keep the story alive and moving along.
A big thanks to Butterworth Books for giving me the opportunity to read this book.
July 10, 2025
A great second chance romance!
Emma is on her way back to New Orleans for her best friend’s wedding. Seeing Riley again brings back memories of an unforgettable summer and their connection is still there. It doesn’t stop Riley remembering how she felt when Emma left the first time though.
Really enjoyed every moment of this. It was laced with a light tension as both Emma and Riley tried to protect themselves from heartache and pain but wanted desperately to reconnect and explore how they feel about each other. Being at all the events surrounding the wedding and the ceremony gave them great opportunities to reconnect and you could tell they shared something special from the way they interacted with one another after all this time.
Emma and Riley were both terrible at communicating despite their efforts to reconnect. They were making assumptions and talking with friends, but as is typical of all great romances, not with each other. It had me chuckling and tearing my hair out screaming at the page to talk to one another properly, not just at surface level. I knew eventually they probably would address the issues because they were spending time together willingly and not purposely being awkward with one another, so just had to hold out hope.
I loved them together though and was happy when things finally started falling into place for them to take a chance at happiness.
Emma is on her way back to New Orleans for her best friend’s wedding. Seeing Riley again brings back memories of an unforgettable summer and their connection is still there. It doesn’t stop Riley remembering how she felt when Emma left the first time though.
Really enjoyed every moment of this. It was laced with a light tension as both Emma and Riley tried to protect themselves from heartache and pain but wanted desperately to reconnect and explore how they feel about each other. Being at all the events surrounding the wedding and the ceremony gave them great opportunities to reconnect and you could tell they shared something special from the way they interacted with one another after all this time.
Emma and Riley were both terrible at communicating despite their efforts to reconnect. They were making assumptions and talking with friends, but as is typical of all great romances, not with each other. It had me chuckling and tearing my hair out screaming at the page to talk to one another properly, not just at surface level. I knew eventually they probably would address the issues because they were spending time together willingly and not purposely being awkward with one another, so just had to hold out hope.
I loved them together though and was happy when things finally started falling into place for them to take a chance at happiness.
June 13, 2025
This is my first book by this author. I'm impressed. This cute second chance at love story easily whisks you away to the slow and peaceful bayou of New Orleans. Emma returns for her best friends wedding, having been gone for years as a documentary photographer. Leaving New Orleans was easy when you needed to leave the bad childhood upbringing behind. Riley is also taking time off to support her friend Belle's upcoming nuptials. Riley running into the one that got way after all these years is going to make for an interesting week. The descriptions of the city and the atmosphere help to transport you into the story.
The main nuptial couple Kris and Belle are well thought out. There are a lot of side characters in this wedding vacation, but all are given ample time, so they feel well rounded and able to drive the slow burn romance to the HEA that it deserves.
I was given an advanced copy for an honest review.
The main nuptial couple Kris and Belle are well thought out. There are a lot of side characters in this wedding vacation, but all are given ample time, so they feel well rounded and able to drive the slow burn romance to the HEA that it deserves.
I was given an advanced copy for an honest review.
June 18, 2025
Beautiful second chance romance. Emma returns to her hometown with a lot of baggage and past trauma to work through. Riley never left and never forgot her. Circumstances throw them back together and it's like their connection never severed.
I liked the plot and the way the events played out was well-executed in my opinion. It's my first book by this author and I enjoyed the writing style. The characters were interesting and relatable as well.
I liked the plot and the way the events played out was well-executed in my opinion. It's my first book by this author and I enjoyed the writing style. The characters were interesting and relatable as well.
January 8, 2026
need me a Riley
August 2, 2025
A Heartbreaking Story With A Heartwarming Message 💘
I really loved Ally McGuire’s first book “Where The Heart Leads” and when I saw this one I was excited. I am glad to report it did not disappoint. It’s a heartwarming read but holds a lot of heartbreaking feelings. Riley was returning home to New Orleans after a successful business trip. Working in her family’s Construction business and set to take over for her father, Riley was content. She had her friends, her family, she enjoyed her job. That is until Riley sees her ex on the plane already seated with her laptop open and totally focused. Emma is totally focused on her screen. Doing documentaries and having them broadcast for the good of the subject was a job that Emma loved. Being on this plane heading to her hometown she hasn’t been in since she fled after graduation was not a good feeling. But Bella her best friend had begged her to come home for her wedding. She was the Maid Of Honor after all. One week of wedding festivities, one week of chaos, one week of avoiding all she hates about being in New Orleans including her mother and Riley. But she got through all these years with her heart buried down and that is where it will stay. Until she heard her name called out and a chill went down her spine when she recognized the voice. This can not be happening. Riley is on the plane and now taking up the aisle talking to her. She hadn’t even landed and already her past is coming back to haunt her. This was so good. I loved it. There were so many underlying issues in the relationship of Emma with her hometown. But she has spent her life shaking how she grew up to being a successful documentarian. The first chapter alone hooks you in and the need to get to the next level of emotions makes this a fast read.
I really loved Ally McGuire’s first book “Where The Heart Leads” and when I saw this one I was excited. I am glad to report it did not disappoint. It’s a heartwarming read but holds a lot of heartbreaking feelings. Riley was returning home to New Orleans after a successful business trip. Working in her family’s Construction business and set to take over for her father, Riley was content. She had her friends, her family, she enjoyed her job. That is until Riley sees her ex on the plane already seated with her laptop open and totally focused. Emma is totally focused on her screen. Doing documentaries and having them broadcast for the good of the subject was a job that Emma loved. Being on this plane heading to her hometown she hasn’t been in since she fled after graduation was not a good feeling. But Bella her best friend had begged her to come home for her wedding. She was the Maid Of Honor after all. One week of wedding festivities, one week of chaos, one week of avoiding all she hates about being in New Orleans including her mother and Riley. But she got through all these years with her heart buried down and that is where it will stay. Until she heard her name called out and a chill went down her spine when she recognized the voice. This can not be happening. Riley is on the plane and now taking up the aisle talking to her. She hadn’t even landed and already her past is coming back to haunt her. This was so good. I loved it. There were so many underlying issues in the relationship of Emma with her hometown. But she has spent her life shaking how she grew up to being a successful documentarian. The first chapter alone hooks you in and the need to get to the next level of emotions makes this a fast read.
August 17, 2025
touching book.
Touching book. Two childhood sweethearts given a second chance at love. Emma was trying to escape her childhood memories left Riley behind when she went off to college. The wedding of Bella her best friend and Kris bring them back together. Only for Emma to leave again but this time Riley follows her.
Touching book. Two childhood sweethearts given a second chance at love. Emma was trying to escape her childhood memories left Riley behind when she went off to college. The wedding of Bella her best friend and Kris bring them back together. Only for Emma to leave again but this time Riley follows her.
August 15, 2025
This second chance romance was perfectly paced and beautifully written. I truly felt like I was immersed in Riley and Emma’s world the entire time I was reading. I also really loved the brilliant insight into life in New Orleans, a place I’d love to visit!
July 19, 2025
OMG you better bring Kleenex to read this one!
Ally Mc Guire has given us the tear jerker deep love story of the year! Without giving away the beauty that this story contains, it just has it all. High school friendships, bullying, difficulties with parents, poverty clashes with wealth and so much love and laughter; yeah this one has it all. The characters are deeply presented, the setting, Louisiana, New Orleans specifically really helps the story build right to the end. It is an easy read to be enjoyed perhaps reread often.
Ally Mc Guire has given us the tear jerker deep love story of the year! Without giving away the beauty that this story contains, it just has it all. High school friendships, bullying, difficulties with parents, poverty clashes with wealth and so much love and laughter; yeah this one has it all. The characters are deeply presented, the setting, Louisiana, New Orleans specifically really helps the story build right to the end. It is an easy read to be enjoyed perhaps reread often.
July 21, 2025
Very enjoyable romance. There are two romances I enjoyed in this book. Belle and Kris story takes place the week of their wedding they are so sweet together. Emma and Riley is the second chance romance they haven't been in contact for ten years. Very goid book the characters are well written and likable. Thanks for another winner.
July 2, 2025
Ally McGuire does it again - another book with well-developed characters, an engrossing story, and some great side characters.
Emma was content to never return to New Orleans - after escaping her unreliable family for college, she built a very successful life as a documentary filmmaker. But the marriage of her best friend, Belle, has required her return.
Riley is the heir apparent of her family's construction business. She and Emma were friends, and more, before Emma left. Now that they are thrown back together as members of the wedding party for a week-long bonding exercise, what will happen?
By putting together so many characters from different backgrounds (friends of the brides), McGuire is able to explore class differences, which really drives a lot of Emma’s backstory and decision making. The book also expertly explores what it means to come home, to find your person, and to finally shake off others’ expectations. Both Riley and Emma are glad for this opportunity to reconnect, but more importantly, they both realize that they have some growing up to do. Both women have to face their pasts and the previous decisions made so that they can choose to chart new paths going forward.
Setting the book in a camp/retreat center on the Bayou was excellent. Place played a huge part in this story and also provided some of the humor - for example, having super butch Riley so afraid of alligators was entertaining. The size of the wedding party opened up lots of avenues of exploration, but I have to admit it was a little hard to keep track of all of them. Also, all of the pairings were very butch/femme, which I realize a lot of people really like, but the strict adherence to the femme and butch roles throughout the festivities was a little too rigid for me. Overall though, this was a delightful second chance romance and as with all of McGuire’s works, I really enjoyed it.
I received an advance review copy for free from Butterworth Books and am leaving this review voluntarily.
Emma was content to never return to New Orleans - after escaping her unreliable family for college, she built a very successful life as a documentary filmmaker. But the marriage of her best friend, Belle, has required her return.
Riley is the heir apparent of her family's construction business. She and Emma were friends, and more, before Emma left. Now that they are thrown back together as members of the wedding party for a week-long bonding exercise, what will happen?
By putting together so many characters from different backgrounds (friends of the brides), McGuire is able to explore class differences, which really drives a lot of Emma’s backstory and decision making. The book also expertly explores what it means to come home, to find your person, and to finally shake off others’ expectations. Both Riley and Emma are glad for this opportunity to reconnect, but more importantly, they both realize that they have some growing up to do. Both women have to face their pasts and the previous decisions made so that they can choose to chart new paths going forward.
Setting the book in a camp/retreat center on the Bayou was excellent. Place played a huge part in this story and also provided some of the humor - for example, having super butch Riley so afraid of alligators was entertaining. The size of the wedding party opened up lots of avenues of exploration, but I have to admit it was a little hard to keep track of all of them. Also, all of the pairings were very butch/femme, which I realize a lot of people really like, but the strict adherence to the femme and butch roles throughout the festivities was a little too rigid for me. Overall though, this was a delightful second chance romance and as with all of McGuire’s works, I really enjoyed it.
I received an advance review copy for free from Butterworth Books and am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 18, 2025
A beautifully engaging second-chance romance
This story begins with a very intriguing and captivating premise, immediately drawing readers in and making them want to know what happens next. The setup is strong, and from the very beginning, it promises an emotional journey worth following.
At first, the writing style felt a little confusing to me, but thankfully, that didn’t last long. As the story progressed, it became much more fluid and immersive. The author does a wonderful job balancing deeper, emotional moments with lighter, heartfelt scenes, which makes the story feel authentic and full of life.
This is a second-chance romance, and I was completely rooting for the main characters from the start. Their chemistry and emotional connection felt real, and the development of their relationship was both touching and inspiring. You can't help but cheer them on as they navigate their way back to each other.
I have one small comment, though: the ending felt a bit rushed. After everything the characters went through, I would’ve loved to see more about the resolution, to savor the payoff of their journey fully.
That said, this is still a beautiful and engaging story, one that explores healing, hope, and the power of love to find its way back. It’s an uplifting read that will resonate with anyone who loves second-chance romances.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
This story begins with a very intriguing and captivating premise, immediately drawing readers in and making them want to know what happens next. The setup is strong, and from the very beginning, it promises an emotional journey worth following.
At first, the writing style felt a little confusing to me, but thankfully, that didn’t last long. As the story progressed, it became much more fluid and immersive. The author does a wonderful job balancing deeper, emotional moments with lighter, heartfelt scenes, which makes the story feel authentic and full of life.
This is a second-chance romance, and I was completely rooting for the main characters from the start. Their chemistry and emotional connection felt real, and the development of their relationship was both touching and inspiring. You can't help but cheer them on as they navigate their way back to each other.
I have one small comment, though: the ending felt a bit rushed. After everything the characters went through, I would’ve loved to see more about the resolution, to savor the payoff of their journey fully.
That said, this is still a beautiful and engaging story, one that explores healing, hope, and the power of love to find its way back. It’s an uplifting read that will resonate with anyone who loves second-chance romances.
I received an ARC for an honest review.
July 17, 2025
What a great book. All the emotions had me flip-flopping all over the place. Smiling and laughing at all the pranks the friends got up to in the pre wedding week, crying and desperate at the situation Riley and Emma found themselves in and everything in between. The dynamics of the whole group getting to know each other and becoming friends was heartwarming and I really did not want it to end. Ally Mcguire has a wonderful way of bringing a story to life, she just makes you feel a part of what is going on, probably because she keeps her characters so real and true to life. Then, at the point when a lot of authors would end the book, she pushes it that bit further giving you a far more believable end to the book.
June 17, 2025
Can you go home again? After ten years? Emmaline left Louisiana as soon as she could and hasn’t looked back. But now her childhood best friend, Belle, is getting married and wants her as Maid of Honor. It sounds simple but Emma’s return is rife with memories, good and bad, and more old friends and lovers than she can handle. Especially Riley Beauchamp. Handsome butch Riley: old friend, ex-lover, golden retriever lesbian, overall good person. Emma just has to survive a week in Louisiana before she can get back to her Boston apartment and her life of international travel. Alligators and wild hogs complicate matters on the ground, but Emma’s heart is drawn back to Riley at every turn. Will she stay or will she run again?
June 18, 2025
Drama, and then some
Going back to her hometown after a long time away is hard for Emma. As the best friend of one of the brides she has no choice. Riley, to whom she is the one that got away, tries to keep her distance but doesn’t stand a chance. The baggage of the past tries to keep them apart, and almost succeeds but just when everything seems to fall apart, they get their happy ending.
Second chance romance is one of my favorite tropes. Holding my breath to see if the one that got away, finally gets trapped. Essentially, a happy ending crowns the story, and leaves a smile on the reader’s face.
Going back to her hometown after a long time away is hard for Emma. As the best friend of one of the brides she has no choice. Riley, to whom she is the one that got away, tries to keep her distance but doesn’t stand a chance. The baggage of the past tries to keep them apart, and almost succeeds but just when everything seems to fall apart, they get their happy ending.
Second chance romance is one of my favorite tropes. Holding my breath to see if the one that got away, finally gets trapped. Essentially, a happy ending crowns the story, and leaves a smile on the reader’s face.
June 17, 2025
As always with an Ally McGuire book, you know it is going to be beautifully written and this is no exception. She adds depth by weaving in social commentary without ever ramming it down your throat, but deftly making the point.
I loved the characters who were well rounded and flawed, Emma in particular, who had been through so much. The dialogue was snappy and the banter slightly snarky as you get between close friends. There is a real sense of New Orleans and the Louisiana bayous, although the talk of the wildlife (alligators, poisonous spiders and enraged boars) doesn’t make me want to rush back and see it again. Fabulous book.
Do yourself a favour and download it today.
I loved the characters who were well rounded and flawed, Emma in particular, who had been through so much. The dialogue was snappy and the banter slightly snarky as you get between close friends. There is a real sense of New Orleans and the Louisiana bayous, although the talk of the wildlife (alligators, poisonous spiders and enraged boars) doesn’t make me want to rush back and see it again. Fabulous book.
Do yourself a favour and download it today.
June 18, 2025
The Heart Remembers was another wonderful book by Ally McGuire set in Louisiana. The imagery of the swamps complete with gators and humidity brings the reader into the storyline from the start. We have two long lost loves Emma & Riley. They haven’t seen each other in 10 years but the sparks fly with the first chance meeting. We are immediately drawn into their shared past but the slow reveal of what pulled them apart is all wrapped into the complexity of a lead up to a southern Louisiana wedding. The growth that Emma and Riley achieve alongside their friends and families was a joy to read. This book made me think, feel, and consider where I could find a crawfish boil!
Enjoy!
Enjoy!
June 20, 2025
The Heart Remembers is another wonderful book by Ally McGuire. Emma and Riley were best friends in high school. But when Emma graduated, she left town and never looked back. But now she is coming back for a wedding and will have to face past hurts and regrets. Ally weaves the past into the present in a seamless way. Riley's past hurts when Emma left are handled in a caring way. There is a full cast of characters and Ally keeps track of them without losing our focus. It was a very enjoyable book. Highly recommend.
June 16, 2025
I loved this story. The reconnection of young love. Both main characters are likeable and their chemistry and connection are obvious. It is a story of overcoming fear and difficult childhood to form an unbreakable bond. I really enjoyed how the worked together to figure out how to make their relationship work for them both. Good story!
March 27, 2026
Rating: 5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
The Heart Remembers by Ally McGuire is a beautiful, purposeful, and incredibly well-written second-chance romance that had me hooked from the very first page!
What struck me most about this book is how refreshingly honest Emma and Riley are about their feelings. They’re honest with themselves, with each other, and with everyone around them. Second-chance romances often lean hard into denial and pretense, but this one doesn't. These two women know they still love each other. The reader knows it. The supporting characters know it. And yet, the obstacles between them are no less real for it. That clarity actually made the tension more compelling, not less. We're not waiting for them to admit what's obvious. We're watching them figure out how to actually get there, and that's a much more interesting journey.
The backstory between Emma and Riley is completely believable, and the emotional weight of their history together (spanning over a decade) comes through on every page. Emma's complicated relationship with New Orleans 🎷, rooted in her upbringing and her complicated feelings about her mom, is handled with real care. The growth we get to see in that relationship is slow and earned, which makes it all the more meaningful. Riley's sense of duty to her family legacy gets less page time, but what we do see lands, and it goes a long way toward explaining how two people who clearly love each other could have gone separate ways as teenagers navigating situations that would be hard even for adults.
Belle was a standout for me as a supporting character. She's not just a plot device to get Emma and Riley into the same space. She's a fully realized person with her own anxieties about her wedding 💍 and what it means to marry into old money. Watching Emma and Riley show up for her while also navigating their own rekindled feelings added a layer of warmth that I didn't expect and absolutely loved!
TLDR: A stunning second-chance romance that earns every star! The Heart Remembers is the kind of book that reminds you why you fell in love with the genre in the first place.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
The Heart Remembers by Ally McGuire is a beautiful, purposeful, and incredibly well-written second-chance romance that had me hooked from the very first page!
What struck me most about this book is how refreshingly honest Emma and Riley are about their feelings. They’re honest with themselves, with each other, and with everyone around them. Second-chance romances often lean hard into denial and pretense, but this one doesn't. These two women know they still love each other. The reader knows it. The supporting characters know it. And yet, the obstacles between them are no less real for it. That clarity actually made the tension more compelling, not less. We're not waiting for them to admit what's obvious. We're watching them figure out how to actually get there, and that's a much more interesting journey.
The backstory between Emma and Riley is completely believable, and the emotional weight of their history together (spanning over a decade) comes through on every page. Emma's complicated relationship with New Orleans 🎷, rooted in her upbringing and her complicated feelings about her mom, is handled with real care. The growth we get to see in that relationship is slow and earned, which makes it all the more meaningful. Riley's sense of duty to her family legacy gets less page time, but what we do see lands, and it goes a long way toward explaining how two people who clearly love each other could have gone separate ways as teenagers navigating situations that would be hard even for adults.
Belle was a standout for me as a supporting character. She's not just a plot device to get Emma and Riley into the same space. She's a fully realized person with her own anxieties about her wedding 💍 and what it means to marry into old money. Watching Emma and Riley show up for her while also navigating their own rekindled feelings added a layer of warmth that I didn't expect and absolutely loved!
TLDR: A stunning second-chance romance that earns every star! The Heart Remembers is the kind of book that reminds you why you fell in love with the genre in the first place.
June 1, 2025
The Heart Remembers is a beautiful sapphic story full of southern charm about forever loves and second chances. I loved the enchanting New Orleans backdrop. If you are always on the lookout for butch/femme representation look no further. This book is full of butch/femme couples and it was really refreshing to get swept up in the charismatic butches and their classy femmes.
The story uses a weeklong wedding celebration backdrop to bring our two main characters Emma and Riley back together. They were high school sweethearts at the age of 17 but after graduation Emma left her painful past in New Orleans to pursue her dreams and a better life. She has become a successful documentary filmmaker. Riley has a wonderful supportive family and built her life around her family’s construction company. Emma was always the one for Riley but Emma left and cut all ties with her past. All ties except the one with her best friend Belle who is getting married and asked Emma to be her maid of honor. Belle, Emma, Riley, and Riley’s brother Benji were thick as thieves when they were younger.
When the dashing butch Riley realizes she has a week to spend with Emma she hopes Emma will decide to stay in New Orleans and make Riley hers. They have a fun and emotional week full of wedding activities and reminiscing. But Emma’s memories of growing up in New Orleans are so painful there’s no way she’d move back. And Riley has the perfect life in New Orleans. Would Riley give up her contented life to be with Emma?
Reading The Heart Remembers felt like sitting on the porch with a glass of iced tea and just enjoying the summer breeze. It was full of charm, humor, and romance in a captivating setting. Join Riley and Emma for this sensual romance and laissez les bons temps rouler!
The story uses a weeklong wedding celebration backdrop to bring our two main characters Emma and Riley back together. They were high school sweethearts at the age of 17 but after graduation Emma left her painful past in New Orleans to pursue her dreams and a better life. She has become a successful documentary filmmaker. Riley has a wonderful supportive family and built her life around her family’s construction company. Emma was always the one for Riley but Emma left and cut all ties with her past. All ties except the one with her best friend Belle who is getting married and asked Emma to be her maid of honor. Belle, Emma, Riley, and Riley’s brother Benji were thick as thieves when they were younger.
When the dashing butch Riley realizes she has a week to spend with Emma she hopes Emma will decide to stay in New Orleans and make Riley hers. They have a fun and emotional week full of wedding activities and reminiscing. But Emma’s memories of growing up in New Orleans are so painful there’s no way she’d move back. And Riley has the perfect life in New Orleans. Would Riley give up her contented life to be with Emma?
Reading The Heart Remembers felt like sitting on the porch with a glass of iced tea and just enjoying the summer breeze. It was full of charm, humor, and romance in a captivating setting. Join Riley and Emma for this sensual romance and laissez les bons temps rouler!
June 16, 2025
McGuire takes you by the hand on the first page and you are bound on a journey through the book with no stopping until the end. And, once there you want it to continue.
The story about two teenage sweethearts meeting again years later keeps you guessing about what will happen. They appear to be an ideal couple with a perfect fit, but the teenage reasons for parting still apply and the wedding party tries to show them why they should be together. We are all cheering them on as we read the story.
The descriptions of the characters are made using a deft touch, some combining humor, and the joshing dialogue between the different members of the party are priceless. I really enjoyed the differences of the butch/femme characters and the writing about them was sure and excellently done.
McGuire can write about nasty people and somehow make you smile when they get their come-uppance. Kris’s mother is a case in point, and I defy you not to laugh when the table is turned on her.
This is another book that you need to read. It is well written and will take you on a page turning read leaving you warm and happy. Enjoy!
The story about two teenage sweethearts meeting again years later keeps you guessing about what will happen. They appear to be an ideal couple with a perfect fit, but the teenage reasons for parting still apply and the wedding party tries to show them why they should be together. We are all cheering them on as we read the story.
The descriptions of the characters are made using a deft touch, some combining humor, and the joshing dialogue between the different members of the party are priceless. I really enjoyed the differences of the butch/femme characters and the writing about them was sure and excellently done.
McGuire can write about nasty people and somehow make you smile when they get their come-uppance. Kris’s mother is a case in point, and I defy you not to laugh when the table is turned on her.
This is another book that you need to read. It is well written and will take you on a page turning read leaving you warm and happy. Enjoy!
June 9, 2025
The Heart Remembers by Ally McGuire has an undeniable wow factor in this exceptional second chance romance; full of fun, witty banter and reminiscing about past times, both the good and the not so.
Emma Smith left her hometown of New Orleans for a reason and now finds herself pulled back there for her best friend’s wedding. Emma went from nothing to being totally at home behind a lens. Riley Beauchamp is the one person Emma cannot forget from her past, as they both attend the same wedding they fall back into old familiarity.
I adore the way Emma and Riley just fit like one piece to a puzzle. They have a past that I felt was not the end for them and I was hoping beyond all hope that their future would be together, even after ten years apart; their story just captured my heart.
This book is amazing; I would recommend it to anyone.
I received an arc for my honest review.
Emma Smith left her hometown of New Orleans for a reason and now finds herself pulled back there for her best friend’s wedding. Emma went from nothing to being totally at home behind a lens. Riley Beauchamp is the one person Emma cannot forget from her past, as they both attend the same wedding they fall back into old familiarity.
I adore the way Emma and Riley just fit like one piece to a puzzle. They have a past that I felt was not the end for them and I was hoping beyond all hope that their future would be together, even after ten years apart; their story just captured my heart.
This book is amazing; I would recommend it to anyone.
I received an arc for my honest review.
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