Stephanie Porter understood that Gavin loved another woman, but in her heart Stephanie wishes she could be that woman. However whatever love she felt for Gavin was gone because he had married another. With that in mind, she decides to see about becoming Heart’s Junction first school principal. Dr. Aaron Wesley believes that Stephanie is a beautiful woman, but has yet to be able to be alone with her for any amount of time. When he takes the job on the school board, Stephanie wishes in her heart he hadn’t accepted the position. She insists she knows more about education than he does. Aaron has a medical degree from a prestigious Eastern medical school, not to mention is a well-educated and a competent physician. He believes he is well qualified to help plan the future for Hearts Junction school system. Aaron believes he and Stephanie will work great on a project, but she thinks otherwise. He would love to get to know her better, but Stephanie continues to find a way to brush him off every time they are in close proximity. After he finally gets the nerve to ask her out socially, he wonders will Stephanie agree or close the door in his face. Only time will tell if he can possibly melt her heart to show her his love.

Fran Shaff transports the reader into Heart’s Junction as she creates a visual scene that is very real. I love the thoughts about the kiss and a possible scandal. This is a great story about morals, family, and love with some romance tossed in to make the read even more a delight. I love the proper behavior and morals that each of them share. I think the way the love of Stephanie and Aaron slowly builds is beautifully composed. Fran Shaff is a wonderful writer whose prose speaks with passion from her heart. She pens a poignant tale with Stephanie’s Surprise and keeps it smoothly flowing until the end. Her characters are beautifully portrayed and the storytelling exquisite. I know I will never forget Aaron and Stephanie, or the love they shared toward each other, the heartaches they shared, or the comfort they found in each others arms. This story keeps the reader spellbound.

Reviewed by: Linda L.