I received this book for free from Netgalley in exchange for an honest review. This does not affect my opinion of the book or the content of my review.

No Matter What by Janice Kay Johnson
Published by Harlequin Superromance on October 1, 2012
Genres: Contemporary Romance, Fiction / Romance / Contemporary
Pages: 283
Format: ARC, eBook
Source: Netgalley
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As a high school vice principal, Molly Callahan is used to being the one with all the solutions. Not this time.

Her teenage daughter's pregnancy has Molly questioning her own choices and unable to make the tough decisions. Figuring out what's right and wrong isn't so simple anymore, and now, more than ever, she needs someone to trust.

Little does she expect that person to be Richard Ward. Their teenagers' dilemma has forced them to meet, but something much more powerful is pulling them together. This is hardly the time for Richard and Molly to think about themselves…yet she can't stop this attraction. Letting herself count on him is one thing. Letting herself fall for him? That's guaranteed to make things very complicated.

⭐️ Rating: 3 Stars

ABOUT THE BOOK

A contemporary family drama about parenting, trust, and the messy middle between justice and forgiveness.

THE STORY

When her son is accused of a crime, Claire must reevaluate everything she thought she knew. With a quiet romance building in the background, this is more about family and growth than love.

THE CHARACTERS

Claire is a fiercely loving mom, and Detective Nate is reserved but kind. Their relationship builds slowly and realistically.

FAMILY-FOCUSED FICTION

It’s less romance-forward and more emotionally introspective—great for fans of Jodi Picoult or Diane Chamberlain.

🔥 STEAMOMETER: 2/5

Mild intimacy. Emotional depth over passion.

OVERALL THOUGHTS

This novel is a quiet, thoughtful exploration of what it means to stand by someone when everything is on the line. Claire’s struggle as a mother trying to protect her son while also doing what’s right is portrayed with compassion and nuance. The romance with Nate is a subtle thread rather than the central focus, but it provides a welcome contrast to the legal and emotional turmoil at play. If you enjoy contemporary fiction that doesn’t shy away from messy, complicated truths, No Matter What is a worthwhile read. It earns 3 stars for strong character development and an honest portrayal of parenting through crisis.

ABOUT THE AUTHOR

Janice Kay Johnson writes emotional stories about everyday heroes and families in crisis. Author page