Dive into the heartwarming world of Barbara Freethy’s Wish series, where a single wish can spark love, healing, and unexpected adventure! This captivating collection of contemporary romance novels blends emotional storytelling with a touch of suspense, inviting readers to explore the transformative power of dreams. With its relatable characters and surprising twists, Wish has charmed fans of Nora Roberts and Susan Mallery, earning its place as a beloved series by a #1 New York Times bestselling author.
Each standalone story in the Wish series weaves a tale of personal growth and romance, connected by the magical theme of wishes that lead characters to what they truly need. Whether you’re a hopeless romantic or a fan of light mysteries, Wish offers a cozy escape into stories that tug at the heartstrings.
How Wish Began
Barbara Freethy, a prolific author with over 75 novels, launched the Wish series in 2011 with A Secret Wish. Inspired by her love for crafting emotional, family-driven narratives, Freethy wanted to explore how a single moment—a wish—could change lives. Her self-publishing success allowed her to bring these stories to readers at an affordable price, cementing her reputation as a trailblazer in the romance genre. The series, born from Freethy’s knack for blending romance with real-life struggles, quickly resonated with fans seeking heartfelt reads.
The Heart of Wish
The Wish series comprises three books: A Secret Wish (2011), Just a Wish Away (2012), and When Wishes Collide (2012). In A Secret Wish, three women—Liz, Angela, and Carole—share a birthday in San Francisco and make wishes that unravel their lives in unexpected ways. Liz, a nurse haunted by tragedy, finds love with a stranger; Angela, facing infertility, navigates her marriage; and Carole, betrayed by her husband, reconnects with her past. Just a Wish Away follows Alexa and Braden, childhood sweethearts reunited after 15 years, as they solve a mystery tied to a magical bottle. When Wishes Collide centers on Adrianna, a chef recovering from loss, and Wyatt, a father searching for his kidnapped daughter, whose wishes at a fountain lead to love.
Freethy’s stories shine through themes of hope, second chances, and self-discovery, set against vivid backdrops like San Francisco’s bustling streets and Washington’s serene beaches. Her style blends romance with light suspense, creating page-turners that feel both cozy and thrilling. Readers connect with characters facing universal struggles—grief, infertility, betrayal—making the series deeply relatable.
Why Wish Resonates
The Wish series has left a lasting mark on contemporary romance, offering readers an emotional escape with a touch of magic. Fans praise Freethy’s ability to craft characters that feel like friends, with stories that balance heartache and hope. The series’ standalone nature makes it accessible, while its wish-driven plots add a whimsical allure. With over 11 million books sold worldwide, Freethy’s work, including Wish, inspires readers to believe in the power of dreams and love’s ability to heal.
- Publication Years: 2011–2012
- Number of Books: 3 (1 novella, 2 novels)
- Genre: Contemporary Romance with Suspense
Ready to wish upon a story? Grab A Secret Wish and lose yourself in Barbara Freethy’s enchanting world of romance and redemption!