This Heart of Mine (Chicago Stars, #5) Summary & Key Insights

Susan Elizabeth Phillips's This Heart of Mine, the fifth book in the Chicago Stars series, centers around the complex relationship between former hockey star, Michael "Irish" O'Connell, and free-spirited artist, Savannah "Savvy" Devane. Irish, a gruff but ultimately kind-hearted man, is wrestling with the aftermath of a career-ending injury that left him physically and emotionally scarred. His world revolves around his family and his carefully constructed routine, leaving little room for the unpredictable chaos Savvy represents.

Savvy, a vibrant and talented artist, is fiercely independent and carries the emotional baggage of a past betrayal. She's wary of commitment and fiercely protects her creative freedom, making her an initially frustrating and challenging match for the grounded Irish. Their paths collide when Savvy, needing a place to live, moves into the guest house on Irish's family estate.

The main plot unfolds through the slow burn romance between Irish and Savvy. Their initial interactions are marked by a prickly but undeniable attraction, constantly pushing and pulling each other. Irish is initially resistant to Savvy's unconventional lifestyle and her emotional vulnerability, mirroring his own struggles with vulnerability after his injury. Savvy, in turn, finds Irish's guarded nature and rigid routine stifling, pushing against his attempts to control her life.

A key element of the plot involves Savvy's past trauma – a relationship marked by deception and abandonment. This past impacts her ability to trust and fully commit to Irish, causing significant conflict and tension in their relationship. Simultaneously, Irish confronts his own emotional repression and the lingering effects of his injury, learning to trust again and accept his new reality.

Throughout the novel, family plays a significant role. Irish's large and boisterous family is a constant source of support and comic relief, gradually warming up to Savvy and helping her break down Irish's defenses. Conversely, Savvy's strained relationship with her own family adds depth to her character and underscores her desire for genuine connection.

This Heart of Mine explores themes of healing, forgiveness, and the transformative power of love. Both Irish and Savvy undergo significant personal growth throughout the novel, learning to confront their past traumas and embrace vulnerability. The overarching message is one of hope and resilience, celebrating the possibility of finding love and happiness even after experiencing significant loss and adversity. The novel ultimately portrays a satisfying journey of self-discovery and the rewarding, yet challenging, nature of genuine connection.