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 When danger comes in the most unexpected places

Heartbeat by Sharon Sala
Series: Jubilee, Kentucky #3
Publish Date: February 6, 2024
Genre: Romantic Suspense
Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)

Sharon Sala is a permanent fixture on my must-read list, and Heartbeat solidifies exactly why. With her signature blend of emotional depth, danger, and heartfelt romance, the third book in the Jubilee, Kentucky series kept me hooked from beginning to end.

The story centers on Amalie Lincoln, who moves to Jubilee looking not just for a new address, but a new life. After growing up in an emotionally neglectful household, she’s ready to reclaim control and build something of her own—starting with her CPA business. Jubilee offers the calm she craves, a town where people know your name and community still matters. What she doesn’t expect is to cross paths with Sean Pope, a quiet, tech-savvy local—and someone she remembers vividly from a moment of childhood kindness.

Their reconnection feels effortless, built on mutual respect and a powerful undercurrent of something long unfinished. Amalie is cautious, understandably so, but Sean never pushes. He’s patient, grounded, and lets their connection evolve naturally. Their growing relationship is tender, laced with moments of vulnerability and strength.

Adding to the tension is a shocking incident that disrupts the peace in Jubilee—a mystery that threads through the story without overshadowing the emotional core. Sala balances this beautifully, letting the suspense raise the stakes while always keeping the characters front and center.

Notable Quotes 

“Sometimes the heart remembers what the mind forgets.”
A reflection on the enduring connection between Sean and Amalie.

“In the quiet of Jubilee, she found the strength to face the noise of her past.”

Highlighting Amalie’s journey towards healing.

“Love doesn’t ask for permission; it simply arrives and stays.”

Emphasizing the unexpected rekindling of Sean and Amalie’s relationship.

“The scars we carry are not just reminders of pain, but badges of survival.”

Acknowledging the characters’ resilience.

“Trust is built in moments of vulnerability, not perfection.”
Underlining the deepening bond between the protagonists.

Character Spotlight

Amalie Lincoln – Fierce but guarded, Amalie brings so much heart to this story. Her past—slowly revealed through memories and quiet moments—explains why she hesitates with Sean. The trust she wants to give him isn’t simple, even though she remembers a time he once protected her. Watching her balance fear with hope is one of the most emotionally rewarding threads in the book. She’s driven, quietly brave, and determined to build a life on her own terms, making her incredibly relatable.

Sean Pope – Possibly my favorite Pope brother so far. He’s gentle without being soft, brilliant without being arrogant, and deeply grounded in family and honor.

The Pope Family – The returning cast from previous books continues to shine. Shirley is steady and warm, and the brothers all show up in ways that feel real and earned. Their bond adds so much heart to this series.

Final Thoughts

Heartbeat is a standout addition to the Jubilee series. It’s romantic without being overly sweet, suspenseful without losing emotional intimacy, and filled with characters you want to revisit again and again. If you’ve followed the Pope family from the beginning, this one is deeply satisfying. And if you’re just starting the series—get ready to fall in love with Jubilee.

Join the Conversation!

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Jubilee, Kentucky Series Reading Order