What The Heart Needs by Jessica Gadziala is a contemporary romance that delves into the complexities of rediscovering love after loss, set against the small-town backdrop that Gadziala fans have come to know and love. This novel not only focuses on romantic love but also explores themes of self-discovery and emotional healing, presenting a narrative that is both heartwarming and thought-provoking.

The story centers around Elsie, a young woman who returns to her hometown after a traumatic experience that leaves her reeling and unsure of her future. Gadziala portrays Elsie with a great depth of emotion, crafting her character as both vulnerable and resilient. This dichotomy is one of the book's strengths, as readers are able to see Elsie’s journey from a place of brokenness to one where she slowly starts to piece herself back together with the help of those around her.

Elsie's counterpart, Knox, is a character with his own set of traumas and barriers. Knox is depicted as a stoic man who has adapted to hiding his emotions behind a tough exterior. However, his interactions with Elsie and the unfolding events allow readers to see the layers of his character peel away, revealing a tender and compassionate side. The dynamic between Elsie and Knox is charged with an intensity that is palpable, making their moments of vulnerability and connection deeply compelling.

One of the most captivating aspects of What The Heart Needs is Gadziala's skillful use of the small-town setting. She brings the town and its inhabitants to life with vivid descriptions and engaging subplots. Each supporting character is meticulously crafted, adding richness to the story and greater depth to the main narrative arc. The sense of community in Elsie's hometown acts as a healing balm, not only for her but also for Knox, and it’s this portrayal of community support and enduring friendships that adds a layer of authenticity and warmth to the novel.

Gadziala's writing style is fluid and engaging, with a knack for realistic dialogue and emotionally charged scenes that tug at the heartstrings. Her ability to weave complex emotional threads with a light and often witty dialogic touch is remarkable. While the book delves into heavy themes such as grief and trauma, the author balances these moments with humor and warmth, preventing the narrative from becoming too heavy and maintaining a hopeful tone throughout.

Another noteworthy element of What The Heart Needs is its pacing. Gadziala manages to keep the story moving at a pace that feels both comfortable and engaging, with enough twists and turns to keep the reader invested without feeling overwhelmed. The gradual unfolding of Elsie and Knox’s pasts serves as a powerful narrative device that keeps the reader eagerly turning pages, anticipating the full revelation of their histories and rooting for their healing and eventual happiness.

Critically, while the book offers a lot of strengths, it also faces some minor pitfalls. At times, certain elements of the plot might strike some readers as somewhat predictable, especially for those familiar with the romance genre. However, this predictability does not detract significantly from the overall enjoyment of the book. Instead, it provides a comforting framework within which the more unique aspects of the story—such as its deep dive into personal recovery and emotional renewal—can shine.

In conclusion, What The Heart Needs by Jessica Gadziala is a deeply moving and satisfying read that offers more than just a romance. It presents a story of loss, love, and the courage to find oneself in the face of life’s adversities. Elsie and Knox's journey is a testament to the power of love—both romantic and platonic—in healing and shaping our lives. This book is a commendable addition to Gadziala’s portfolio, likely to appeal to both new readers and long-time fans of her work. It is a poignant reminder that sometimes, what the heart needs is to return home, not just in a physical sense, but also where emotional ties bind us and shape our futures.