Change of Heart

At the start of this whimsical rom-com from Ballard (Right on Cue), workaholic heroine Campbell “Cam” Andrews comes across as irredeemable. She’s late and horrifically rude to her blind date with pediatrician Ben Loving, insisting she knows they aren’t compatible and she’d rather just answer work emails for an hour while they sit and eat in silence. This ruthless professionalism is how she made partner at her law firm by 34—but at what cost? The next day, Cam is shocked to magically awaken in the picturesque town of Heart Springs, a locale straight out of a Hallmark movie, right down to the friendly but meddling neighbors. The waitress from her blind date is there to inform her of the three tasks she must complete to return home: find a career she has a passion for, become a valuable member of the community, and experience true love. Thankfully, it turns out that Ben is there to help her achieve these goals. It’s a clever riff on the classic small-town romance aesthetic and, though it takes a bit too long, it’s gratifying to watch Cam grow into a better person. Readers willing to stick with her through her transformation will be rewarded. Agent: Kimberly Whalen, Whalen Agency. (Feb.)