Past Heaven — Laura Ward

Not every love story has a happy ending. Some just change your life. Liz Atwater's happily ever after is torn from her and she's living her worst nightmare. Everything changed the instant her husband, Jack, was murdered. She is now forced to pick up the shattered pieces of her life as she faces the daunting task of raising three young children alone. A world away in Hollywood, actor Reynolds Carter is recovering from the humiliation of his girlfriend's cheating scandal. The public affair forces him to admit that he wants his life to be meaningful, not just front page gossip and headlines in the tabloids. Reynolds finds his purpose in memorializing the story of Jack Atwater, whose life ambition was to bring attention to people with disabilities who were living in institutions. As Reynolds takes on the challenge of this new project, his world collides with that of Liz. They never expected their professional relationship to evolve into friendship, or love, but that's exactly what happens. Unfortunately, life is never simple. Faced with complications from family, friends, and work colleagues, Liz and Reynolds are left to decide whether two people from such different worlds can find happiness together. Can they get past the pain, fear, and guilt to risk their hearts to love again? If so, would it be worth it? Not every love story is just a happy ending. Some completely change your life.