The Wish

From the #1 New York Times bestselling author of The Notebook and A Walk to Remember, an emotionally poignant novel about the enduring legacy of first love-and the decisions that haunt us forever.

Sent away at sixteen, Maggie Dawes could think only of the friends and family she left behind . . . until she met Bryce Trickett. Bryce showed her how much there was to love about the wind-swept beach town and introduced her to photography, a passion that would define the rest of her life.

By 2019, Maggie is a renowned travel photographer. Unexpectedly grounded over Christmas and struggling to come to terms with a medical diagnosis, she finds herself becoming dependent on her young assistant.

As they count down the last days of the season together, she tells him the story of another Christmas, decades earlier--and the love that set her on a course she never could have imagined.

BUY THE BOOK

Published Aug 2, 2022

416 pages

Average rating: 7.65

332 RATINGS

|

Community Reviews

K Olson
Jan 14, 2025
4/10 stars
I’m obviously in the minority here. The story line did not draw me in and I found the characters flat. Reminded me of a hallmark movie.
literarily_occupied
Aug 12, 2025
10/10 stars
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ / 5 stars

An enthusiastic 5 stars for The Wish! Nicholas Sparks has never let me down and in true to Sparks fashion he brought so much joy in this one while simultaneously breaking my heart.

As the plot played out I had my feelings about the twists and while it wasn't the shock value of "I didn't see that coming" it didn't at all detract from the impact of the narrative.

Appreciate the loved ones in your life and maximize the time you have with them because as we all know, tomorrow is never guaranteed.

"In the end, isn’t that the most important thing in life? To be truly known and loved by someone you’ve chosen?"
Rwhite29
Jun 27, 2025
4/10 stars
Definitely in the minority here but this book was pretty predictable and very forgettable.
Lakegirl24
Mar 13, 2025
10/10 stars
Loved loved loved this book. Definitely recommend to anyone who loves a good cry.
KateBonifacio
Feb 14, 2025
8/10 stars
A little long. I think the writer could have shortened the story but I still enjoyed reading this novel.

See why thousands of readers are using Bookclubs to stay connected.