ARC Review
When Hearts Remember by Victoria Lum is the fifth installment in The Orchid series, and it delivers an emotional, unforgettable second-chance romance.
This is the story of Lexy Vaughn and Ethan Anderson, two strangers who fall in love through a secret-sharing journal. Their connection is instant and deep, even before they know each other’s identities. Once their true selves are revealed, the bond only grows stronger. But everything changes when a tragic accident robs Lexy of her memories—memories that include their entire love story. As she wakes up with a significant gap in her life, the question becomes: Can she remember her first love? And can Ethan help her fall for him all over again?
This is one of the most intense second-chance romances I’ve ever read. Told from a dual POV, the story alternates between past and present, adding depth and emotional weight. Much of the narrative focuses on Lexy’s journey to rediscover herself and piece together her forgotten love. Alongside the romance is a suspenseful subplot involving embezzlement at Ethan’s company, adding a layer of intrigue and danger.
The chemistry between Lexy and Ethan is palpable. They’re polar opposites in many ways, but their differences make them a perfect match. Ethan is the ideal boyfriend—protective, loving, and patient—while Lexy’s resilience and optimism shine through even when she feels like a stranger in her own life. Both characters grow beautifully throughout the book.
My favorite moments were when Lexy started to remember, and especially when she faced her fears head-on. Those scenes were powerful and moving.
When Hearts Remember is a beautiful, heart-tugging story that made me tear up more than once. I highly recommend it!