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Emerson Falls #4
Revived
Being a single dad is not what I signed up for, but when my wife died unexpectedly just after our son was born, his upbringing became my number one priority, and I shut off the rest of the world, including any interest in women.
My mother helped take care of Grayson while I worked, but when she broke her hip, I was suddenly without childcare—and in desperate need of a nanny.
Rachel Zanetti befriended my son over feeding ducks at a pond, and before I knew it, she was moving in with me and my kid, much to the delight of my friends who actually knew her.
Little did I know that hiring the first woman I found attractive since my late wife would flip over my world and my heart as it learned to beat to the idea of someone new.
But grief is a fickle thing, and I struggled with the guilt of moving on, even though every fiber of my body wanted to be connected to every piece of Rachel’s.
And my son fell for her just as hard as I did.
The question is, do I guard my heart from the risk of losing another person that I love?
Or will I be able to let my first love go to make room for this woman who is reviving me one day at a time?
My mother helped take care of Grayson while I worked, but when she broke her hip, I was suddenly without childcare—and in desperate need of a nanny.
Rachel Zanetti befriended my son over feeding ducks at a pond, and before I knew it, she was moving in with me and my kid, much to the delight of my friends who actually knew her.
Little did I know that hiring the first woman I found attractive since my late wife would flip over my world and my heart as it learned to beat to the idea of someone new.
But grief is a fickle thing, and I struggled with the guilt of moving on, even though every fiber of my body wanted to be connected to every piece of Rachel’s.
And my son fell for her just as hard as I did.
The question is, do I guard my heart from the risk of losing another person that I love?
Or will I be able to let my first love go to make room for this woman who is reviving me one day at a time?
328 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 4, 2020
117 people are currently reading
352 people want to read
About the author
Harlow James
37 books1,417 followersHarlow James is a wife and mom who fell in love with romance novels, so she decided to write her own.
Her books are the perfect blend of heartwarming, addictive, and steamy romance. If you love stories with strong females, found family and friend groups, and plenty of emotion and steam with a guaranteed Happily Ever After, then Harlow is your new best friend.
When she's not writing, she can be found working her day job, reading every romance novel she can find time for, laughing with her husband and kids, watching re-runs of FRIENDS, and spending time cooking for her friends and family while drinking champagne or a blended margarita.
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Website: https://harlowjamesauthor.com/
Her books are the perfect blend of heartwarming, addictive, and steamy romance. If you love stories with strong females, found family and friend groups, and plenty of emotion and steam with a guaranteed Happily Ever After, then Harlow is your new best friend.
When she's not writing, she can be found working her day job, reading every romance novel she can find time for, laughing with her husband and kids, watching re-runs of FRIENDS, and spending time cooking for her friends and family while drinking champagne or a blended margarita.
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/HarlowJamesA...
Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/49499...
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/harlowjames...
Newsletter: https://www.subscribepage.com/b2x1q8
Amazon: https://www.amazon.com/Harlow-James/e...
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/profile/harlo...
Website: https://harlowjamesauthor.com/
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 92 reviews
June 20, 2020
4 Stars 🌟
Revived is book 4 in the Emerson Falls and follows Luke & Rachel's story. This is a slow burn romance between a Widowed Single Father and his Nanny. Its about dealing with the pain and guilt that is brought on from losing the woman Luke thought he was going to be with for the rest of his life. Its emotional, heart breaking, messy but ultimately beautiful.
Luke has it all. A wife and son he adores, a job he is good at and a life he is building until one fateful night when it all came crashing down. Losing his wife in a horrible accident when their son Grayson is only a couple months old Luke is left heartbroken and is dealing with the emotional and well as psychological affects the best way he knows how, to be strong and their for his son who needs him more than ever. Luke is an amazing father. He's kind, caring and patient. He is also reasonably distant and not open to the idea of moving on. After years of relying on his parents he knows it's time to hire a nanny when Grayson is 4 years old to help out with him while he works but he is left confused and conflicted when feelings he thought could never happen start to stir.
Rachel is new to town, she doesn't know many people but when her best friend tells her about a job to nanny for an adorable, smart and inquisitive little boy Rachel knows this is a right fit for her. Knowing a bit about what Luke has been through she is incredibly compassionate, understanding and patient towards him as well as being sweet, funny & loving.
Luke & Rachel's story tore my heart apart more than once. I absolutely LOVED Rachel and she is by far one of my favourite heroines in this series and I'm so glad she has decided to make Emerson Falls her new home. I can't even begin to imagine what Luke had to go through and how he felt. There were times he frustrated me, times he had my heart breaking and times he had me swooning. I'm not used to this kind of story nor have I read anything similar with one character being a Widower so I really didn't know what to expect and I know everyone deals with grief and loss in a different way and there is no right way to grieve but this story pleasantly surpised me with how much I loved it even though it was a rollercoaster of emotions. I love Luke & Rachel and loved their HEA and every single scene involving Grayson as he often stole the show.
《book aesthetic made by me. I do not own the pictures, all found via pinterest》
Revived is book 4 in the Emerson Falls and follows Luke & Rachel's story. This is a slow burn romance between a Widowed Single Father and his Nanny. Its about dealing with the pain and guilt that is brought on from losing the woman Luke thought he was going to be with for the rest of his life. Its emotional, heart breaking, messy but ultimately beautiful.
Luke has it all. A wife and son he adores, a job he is good at and a life he is building until one fateful night when it all came crashing down. Losing his wife in a horrible accident when their son Grayson is only a couple months old Luke is left heartbroken and is dealing with the emotional and well as psychological affects the best way he knows how, to be strong and their for his son who needs him more than ever. Luke is an amazing father. He's kind, caring and patient. He is also reasonably distant and not open to the idea of moving on. After years of relying on his parents he knows it's time to hire a nanny when Grayson is 4 years old to help out with him while he works but he is left confused and conflicted when feelings he thought could never happen start to stir.
Rachel is new to town, she doesn't know many people but when her best friend tells her about a job to nanny for an adorable, smart and inquisitive little boy Rachel knows this is a right fit for her. Knowing a bit about what Luke has been through she is incredibly compassionate, understanding and patient towards him as well as being sweet, funny & loving.
Luke & Rachel's story tore my heart apart more than once. I absolutely LOVED Rachel and she is by far one of my favourite heroines in this series and I'm so glad she has decided to make Emerson Falls her new home. I can't even begin to imagine what Luke had to go through and how he felt. There were times he frustrated me, times he had my heart breaking and times he had me swooning. I'm not used to this kind of story nor have I read anything similar with one character being a Widower so I really didn't know what to expect and I know everyone deals with grief and loss in a different way and there is no right way to grieve but this story pleasantly surpised me with how much I loved it even though it was a rollercoaster of emotions. I love Luke & Rachel and loved their HEA and every single scene involving Grayson as he often stole the show.
《book aesthetic made by me. I do not own the pictures, all found via pinterest》
July 23, 2020
(4.1 Stars)
June 13, 2020
Review to come!❤️❤️
June 25, 2020
Heartwarming and Emotional Second Chance Romance
My heart! 😭
"And then one day you realize that everything starts again... and the smile is the owner of your life again."
✓Small Town Romance
✓Second Chance
✓Single Dad/Widower
✓An Adorable Toddler
✓All The Feels
I have to emphasize that one of the things I like the most about this series is how real the characters and life events that have happened in it feel. This book exceeded my expectations and went deep into my heart. It was a very emotional journey, endearing at times and heartwarming. This is the story of Luke and Rachel.
Luke is a single father and widower, who is in charge of Grayson. Time has failed to help Luke overcome the loss of his wife, erecting walls that will be difficult to tear down. But Rachel, Grayson’s nanny, comes into his life ready to finish them off and plunge into their hearts and settle permanently.
This couple has enchanted me. Rachel and Luke became my favorite couple in the series. Grayson's innocence and personality provided a touch of humor and tenderness. The times in the plot were perfect and for me, the story itself was perfect. Harlow has polished his writing with every book. Like a rough diamond that takes shape to make it sparkle.
I received this arc in exchange for an honest review.
My heart! 😭
"And then one day you realize that everything starts again... and the smile is the owner of your life again."
✓Small Town Romance
✓Second Chance
✓Single Dad/Widower
✓An Adorable Toddler
✓All The Feels
I have to emphasize that one of the things I like the most about this series is how real the characters and life events that have happened in it feel. This book exceeded my expectations and went deep into my heart. It was a very emotional journey, endearing at times and heartwarming. This is the story of Luke and Rachel.
Luke is a single father and widower, who is in charge of Grayson. Time has failed to help Luke overcome the loss of his wife, erecting walls that will be difficult to tear down. But Rachel, Grayson’s nanny, comes into his life ready to finish them off and plunge into their hearts and settle permanently.
This couple has enchanted me. Rachel and Luke became my favorite couple in the series. Grayson's innocence and personality provided a touch of humor and tenderness. The times in the plot were perfect and for me, the story itself was perfect. Harlow has polished his writing with every book. Like a rough diamond that takes shape to make it sparkle.
I received this arc in exchange for an honest review.
June 7, 2020
4.5 stars
Luke was dealing with a lot-grieving widower, single parent, job changes-but meeting Rachel was the spark plug he didn’t know he needed to jump start his life. Luke tried to be methodical in how he tackled his attraction to Rachel, but his friends and family were having none of it. And his son, Grayson...the most adorably charming, extremely exuberant little boy ever...he really wasn’t keen on giving Rachel back. He wanted to keep her-leave it to the four year old to keep life simple, eh?
Revived was an emotional roller coaster! I teared up quite a bit reading this one, especially rooting for Luke to come out of his emotional coma and embrace the joys of living. Rachel was probably too perfect, but I didn’t care because she loved Luke and Grayson so much! Overall, Revived was wonderfully, emotion driven read.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and this is my honest review.
Luke was dealing with a lot-grieving widower, single parent, job changes-but meeting Rachel was the spark plug he didn’t know he needed to jump start his life. Luke tried to be methodical in how he tackled his attraction to Rachel, but his friends and family were having none of it. And his son, Grayson...the most adorably charming, extremely exuberant little boy ever...he really wasn’t keen on giving Rachel back. He wanted to keep her-leave it to the four year old to keep life simple, eh?
Revived was an emotional roller coaster! I teared up quite a bit reading this one, especially rooting for Luke to come out of his emotional coma and embrace the joys of living. Rachel was probably too perfect, but I didn’t care because she loved Luke and Grayson so much! Overall, Revived was wonderfully, emotion driven read.
I received an advance reader copy from the author and this is my honest review.
December 10, 2020
Another phenomenal 5 star read from Harlow James! Absolutely my new favorite book in the Emerson Falls series. If you don’t read any other book in the series please do yourself a favor and read this lovely hope filled masterpiece. This is a book that will stay with me for the rest of my life!
Luke is a widower who finds himself raising his son Grayson on his own after his wife tragically dies in a car accident while their son is just a few months old. It’s now been five years since Luke lost the love of his life and his sole purpose and focus has been Grayson and giving him the best life possible. Luckily Luke’s parents live close by and are able to help him out with watching Grayson that is until his mom suddenly falls and breaks her hip. Now Luke is forced to find a nanny and choosing Rachel is really gonna shake up his world. Rachel is full of life and joy where as Luke has just been surviving but not really living for the past 5 years. Luke starts to fall for his full of life and love nanny but does he have room in his heart for two great loves or is simply surviving all he’s capable of?
Luke’s grief journey was basically put on hold right after his wife died because he had an infant to raise on his own and ever since Grayson has been his sole focus. So when Rachel comes into their lives he’s forced to grieve for all the moments that he never got and the future he will never have with Hannah his dead wife. Coming home to Rachel cooking dinner, sharing household chores, listening to Rachel make Grayson laugh in the other room, these are all simple everyday moments that were supposed to happen with Hannah and now Luke is faced with the very real fact that he doesn’t get to experience these moments with her like he was supposed to. But at the same time it makes him happy to have his house filled with life, and joy again. Watching Luke navigate grief, gilt and love was so touching. He’s grappling with so many warring emotions throughout this whole novel and you can tell he wants love and joy to win so badly but dang if it’s not hard to allow that for himself.
Rachel is a godsend. She comes into Luke and Grayson’s lives right when they need her most. She is this vibrant woman who is living her life to the fullest. She’s the type that lights up the room with her loving and joyful personality. She falls for Grayson first and is instantly attracted to Luke. Her feelings slowly grow for Luke but she’s very aware that Hannah takes up all the current space in his heart. She has the patience of a saint as she navigates the developing relationship with Luke. There are plenty of stumbling blocks along the way but she sees it through because she knows that this man and his son are beyond worth it. She’s so confident in her decision that these two are her forever loves and this is the life she wants. She slowly and patiently leads Luke along this journey that brings him back to life and leads him to a place where he can just as confidently choose her and this new life/family.
I have been waiting for Luke’s story since we were very briefly introduced to him in Cooper’s book Enticed. This book was everything I wanted and so much more! I’m walking away from this read with a heart that is overflowing with love and hope. I’m just absolutely blown away by how beautifully this book was written. Harlow James has this wonderful ability to intertwine hard hitting topics with light and fluffy moments that represent life in the most beautiful and realistic of ways. There were quite a few moments where I found myself both crying and laughing. It takes real talent to pull all of the emotions out of your readers and Harlow James has that talent in spades. This book is just so incredibly heartwarming and brimming with hope and love. I especially loved that literally everyone in this book was rooting for Luke and Rachel.
Thank you so much Harlow James for sending me this ARC in return for my honest review!
Luke is a widower who finds himself raising his son Grayson on his own after his wife tragically dies in a car accident while their son is just a few months old. It’s now been five years since Luke lost the love of his life and his sole purpose and focus has been Grayson and giving him the best life possible. Luckily Luke’s parents live close by and are able to help him out with watching Grayson that is until his mom suddenly falls and breaks her hip. Now Luke is forced to find a nanny and choosing Rachel is really gonna shake up his world. Rachel is full of life and joy where as Luke has just been surviving but not really living for the past 5 years. Luke starts to fall for his full of life and love nanny but does he have room in his heart for two great loves or is simply surviving all he’s capable of?
Luke’s grief journey was basically put on hold right after his wife died because he had an infant to raise on his own and ever since Grayson has been his sole focus. So when Rachel comes into their lives he’s forced to grieve for all the moments that he never got and the future he will never have with Hannah his dead wife. Coming home to Rachel cooking dinner, sharing household chores, listening to Rachel make Grayson laugh in the other room, these are all simple everyday moments that were supposed to happen with Hannah and now Luke is faced with the very real fact that he doesn’t get to experience these moments with her like he was supposed to. But at the same time it makes him happy to have his house filled with life, and joy again. Watching Luke navigate grief, gilt and love was so touching. He’s grappling with so many warring emotions throughout this whole novel and you can tell he wants love and joy to win so badly but dang if it’s not hard to allow that for himself.
Rachel is a godsend. She comes into Luke and Grayson’s lives right when they need her most. She is this vibrant woman who is living her life to the fullest. She’s the type that lights up the room with her loving and joyful personality. She falls for Grayson first and is instantly attracted to Luke. Her feelings slowly grow for Luke but she’s very aware that Hannah takes up all the current space in his heart. She has the patience of a saint as she navigates the developing relationship with Luke. There are plenty of stumbling blocks along the way but she sees it through because she knows that this man and his son are beyond worth it. She’s so confident in her decision that these two are her forever loves and this is the life she wants. She slowly and patiently leads Luke along this journey that brings him back to life and leads him to a place where he can just as confidently choose her and this new life/family.
I have been waiting for Luke’s story since we were very briefly introduced to him in Cooper’s book Enticed. This book was everything I wanted and so much more! I’m walking away from this read with a heart that is overflowing with love and hope. I’m just absolutely blown away by how beautifully this book was written. Harlow James has this wonderful ability to intertwine hard hitting topics with light and fluffy moments that represent life in the most beautiful and realistic of ways. There were quite a few moments where I found myself both crying and laughing. It takes real talent to pull all of the emotions out of your readers and Harlow James has that talent in spades. This book is just so incredibly heartwarming and brimming with hope and love. I especially loved that literally everyone in this book was rooting for Luke and Rachel.
Thank you so much Harlow James for sending me this ARC in return for my honest review!
June 12, 2020
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ “So much love and so much hurt lies within those walls, and so many emotions swirl inside of me as I fight the sorrow and attraction I feel for the man living inside.”
.
If you enjoy:
⭐️Second Chance Romance
✔️Single Dad/Widower
⭐️Forbidden
✔️All the feels
⭐️Dual POV
Then this may be the book for you!
.
Almost five years ago Luke lost his wife unexpectedly just 3 months after his son was born. When he hires a nanny he doesn’t expect her to be the first woman he’s attracted to since his wife’s passing. Rachel is new to Emerson Falls and looking for a new start. What she doesn’t expect is to find a nanny job and fall for her boss. She’s wants him, flaws and all. But can he make room in his heart for her?
.
Tell Alexa to play Just A Kiss by Lady A. Then get your KitKats, tissue and wine before you dive in. This beautiful story about loss, love and moving on will have you feeling all the emotions.
.
Luke’s story is one I couldn’t wait for since we met him in Enticed. How lucky could we all be to have someone love us like he loved his late wife. I wanted to scream at him and cry for him at the same time though. But there’s just something about a single dad romance that draws me in everytime. Watching as he learns to open up his heart again. I was told that Grayson would steal my heart and that he sure did. But ultimately it was Rachel who stole the show for me. She was an amazing heroine. Full of compassion, empathy, patience and love.
.
Their relationship was a slow burn. The story set at a steady pace- light on the drama but packed a good amount of emotions. There was some sexy steam that we’re use to seeing in this series, but this book definitely felt different from the others. In a good way. Another beautiful story from Emerson Falls. Not to be missed!
.
Thank you to the author for the eARC for my honest review!
.
If you enjoy:
⭐️Second Chance Romance
✔️Single Dad/Widower
⭐️Forbidden
✔️All the feels
⭐️Dual POV
Then this may be the book for you!
.
Almost five years ago Luke lost his wife unexpectedly just 3 months after his son was born. When he hires a nanny he doesn’t expect her to be the first woman he’s attracted to since his wife’s passing. Rachel is new to Emerson Falls and looking for a new start. What she doesn’t expect is to find a nanny job and fall for her boss. She’s wants him, flaws and all. But can he make room in his heart for her?
.
Tell Alexa to play Just A Kiss by Lady A. Then get your KitKats, tissue and wine before you dive in. This beautiful story about loss, love and moving on will have you feeling all the emotions.
.
Luke’s story is one I couldn’t wait for since we met him in Enticed. How lucky could we all be to have someone love us like he loved his late wife. I wanted to scream at him and cry for him at the same time though. But there’s just something about a single dad romance that draws me in everytime. Watching as he learns to open up his heart again. I was told that Grayson would steal my heart and that he sure did. But ultimately it was Rachel who stole the show for me. She was an amazing heroine. Full of compassion, empathy, patience and love.
.
Their relationship was a slow burn. The story set at a steady pace- light on the drama but packed a good amount of emotions. There was some sexy steam that we’re use to seeing in this series, but this book definitely felt different from the others. In a good way. Another beautiful story from Emerson Falls. Not to be missed!
.
Thank you to the author for the eARC for my honest review!
February 4, 2022
I knew Revived was going to be emotional after meeting Luke in previous books. His story of becoming a single Dad was heartbreaking. When another accident brings Rachel into his life he begins living his again. Rachel was perfect and patient for Luke and also knew when to stand up for her needs too. You can’t help but fall in love with Luke and I’m so happy he gets his HEA!
✨✨See you on the other side of the stars ✨✨
✨✨See you on the other side of the stars ✨✨
June 18, 2020
I was really looking forward to this but man.. the dead wife trope doesn’t bother me but what does is feeling like the heroine is second best and she basically was throughout the entire book. the kid was cute but he barely was in it. I also hated the dialogue, it was really cheesy.
June 6, 2020
My poor, poor heart you guys. Harlow ruined it! But in a good way hehe.
I have been waiting impatiently for Luke’s story. I have been dying to get inside his head and figure him out. We all know he was a single daddy after losing his wife in a car accident but that was all we knew. There had to be more to him and boy was there! Add in his adorable son Grayson, and you are a goner. I loved Grayson, such a sweet smart little guy. But seeing Luke as a dad to Grayson was the best. He was trying to be the best dad and mom to him but he was starting to get busier and didn’t want to rely on his parents anymore than he already was.
That brings us to Rachel. How she ends up meeting not only Luke but Grayson too was my favorite. I just loved Rachel from the very beginning. She surprised me and wasn’t what I was expecting her to be, I mean she is from rich town New York so you can imagine what my image of her was going to be lol. But she totally bested me.
Does she have what it takes to break through with Luke? Can she win over his son? You will have to read to find out because you won’t be eating any answers outta this girl!!
I will add that this was my absolute favorite outta the series so far!
5️⃣🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🔥🔥🔥🔥
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💯recommendation!
I have been waiting impatiently for Luke’s story. I have been dying to get inside his head and figure him out. We all know he was a single daddy after losing his wife in a car accident but that was all we knew. There had to be more to him and boy was there! Add in his adorable son Grayson, and you are a goner. I loved Grayson, such a sweet smart little guy. But seeing Luke as a dad to Grayson was the best. He was trying to be the best dad and mom to him but he was starting to get busier and didn’t want to rely on his parents anymore than he already was.
That brings us to Rachel. How she ends up meeting not only Luke but Grayson too was my favorite. I just loved Rachel from the very beginning. She surprised me and wasn’t what I was expecting her to be, I mean she is from rich town New York so you can imagine what my image of her was going to be lol. But she totally bested me.
Does she have what it takes to break through with Luke? Can she win over his son? You will have to read to find out because you won’t be eating any answers outta this girl!!
I will add that this was my absolute favorite outta the series so far!
5️⃣🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
🔥🔥🔥🔥
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
💯recommendation!
June 17, 2020
This book was deeply emotional for me on so many levels; it's my absolute worst fear of losing my husband or him losing me well before our time and having to raise our kids alone. I felt every single thing Luke was going through -- his unwillingness to let someone else in for fear of replacing/forgetting his wife, the guilt of moving on, the anguish of raising his sin alone.. It was all just so heartbreaking.
Rachel was an amazing woman, and just what Luke needed, despite the way he would always push her away. She becomes the nanny to Luke's son, and right away she develops such a beautiful bond with that amazing child. She's a truly incredible character and never once does she try to replace Luke's late wife, all she wants is for him to make room in his heart for her..
There were times I wanted to shake Luke, even though I understood why he kept pushing Rachel away from him, you just know how much he needs her. There's some really crazy kismet scenes that brought a tear to my eye! This was truly an emotional book!
Harlow James is quickly becoming a one click author for me and I can't wait for more in the series!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
Rachel was an amazing woman, and just what Luke needed, despite the way he would always push her away. She becomes the nanny to Luke's son, and right away she develops such a beautiful bond with that amazing child. She's a truly incredible character and never once does she try to replace Luke's late wife, all she wants is for him to make room in his heart for her..
There were times I wanted to shake Luke, even though I understood why he kept pushing Rachel away from him, you just know how much he needs her. There's some really crazy kismet scenes that brought a tear to my eye! This was truly an emotional book!
Harlow James is quickly becoming a one click author for me and I can't wait for more in the series!
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions!**
June 10, 2020
I’m not normally one for single dad books, but this one was so good. I loved the chemistry between Luke and Rachel. I laughed and cried while reading this book, I loved every second of it!
June 19, 2020
“I never thought I’d love someone as much as I love you. You’ve changed my life, Luke. You and Grayson.” “No, baby,” I say, placing my hand over hers, staring intently into her eyes. “You gave me mine back.”
I’m currently suffering from a major book hangover after finishing this book. I’m recovering, or trying to. This story was surprisingly painful. I knew it was going to be a difficult read because of the nature of the story, but I wasn’t prepared. Make sure you have some tissues with you. You’re in for a bumpy ride.
To say this story holds a special place in my heart isn’t enough. This story is everything to me. It speaks volumes about grief and moving forward. It drives home the meaning of forgiveness. This is a story of second chances, of re-discovering what it means to fall in love. Harlow gives and takes equally from her readers throughout this book. This is a story of a man who lost his wife and, five years later, still isn’t over that loss. Luke hasn’t been able to move on from losing the love of his life, Hannah, in a car accident when his son, Grayson, was only three months old. Now, five years later, Luke is desperately in need of a nanny after his mother falls, and breaks her hip, and can no longer care for Grayson. That’s when Rachel comes into the picture. Rachel is Piper’s best friend from New York. Piper is the heroine in Harlow’s last book, Captivated. Rachel moves to Emerson Falls shortly after Piper and Cash get back together (if you haven’t read their book – DO IT NOW). She is planning on teaching elementary school, but needs to finish some classes in order to get her teaching license for the state. At the beginning of our novel, she’s currently living with Cash and Piper, but is looking for somewhere to move on her own. When she agrees to be Grayson’s nanny, Luke has her move into his house. (There are a few extra scenes in between that I’ve left out, but you’ll just have to read the book to see what you missed *wink wink*).
These two characters are drawn to each other from the very beginning. Rachel lets herself get swept up in Luke and his life, she relishes in feeling like she belongs somewhere. She loves Grayson with her whole heart and thoroughly enjoys taking care of him. Luke is on the opposite end of the spectrum. He struggles daily with his attraction to Rachel. He feels like he is cheating on his late wife. He doesn’t want to move on from Hannah, and he’s constantly at war with himself as time moves forward and his attraction to Rachel only grows. When Luke finally gives in and takes Rachel out on a date, it’s like the stars have aligned. They share a beautiful weekend together and you think everything might finally work out…but you’re wrong. Luke still feels like something is holding him back. He can’t fully give himself to Rachel. Guys, I’ve got to admit, this was so difficult for me to read. I felt SO terrible for Rachel, feeling like she didn’t deserve this wishy-washy back and forth from Luke. But I also saw it from his perspective, he never truly had the chance to grieve for his wife. He jumped into being a single dad immediately. It wasn’t until he met Rachel that he started processing his loss and what it might mean to move on. That’s HUGE, right? I mean, how often is it that you read about someone simultaneously experiencing grief and falling in love? That’s what made this book so special. You get to experience a miraculous story about a brave man finding his way again. It brought so many tears to my eyes.
Okay, I don’t know if I’m allowed to say this or not but Harlow named Rachel after me. That’s right folks! HOW FREAKING COOL IS THAT??? Okay, now that I’ve had my grand reveal (hehehe), let’s talk about this ending…I’m not giving anything away…but I just want to say that the epilogue was everything I needed. Specifically this: “Through therapy and being honest with Rachel over the past two years, I’ve been able to conquer a lot of my fears about death and moving on with my life…”. Truthfully, that gave me all the closure I needed for this story. It left me with so much hope for this couple, knowing that they have been through the ringer, but with each other they are able to get through anything. According to Luke, “feeling is living” and he was out of touch for so many years AND for most of this book! He wasn’t living until he met Rachel. She made him feel alive again and that’s because he felt SO much when he was with her. I’m such a huge proponent of living for the “now”. You never know when it will be your last day on this earth, so it’s important to have no regrets. Luke shows us what that means when he makes a conscious decision to move forward with his life. IT’S SUCH A PHENOMENAL STORY.
Last thing to discuss (I promise)…Grayson. He’s honestly one of my favorite parts of this story. Children either make or break a novel for me, and Grayson definitely exceeded all expectations. He loves facts about the human body. He’s so adorable and honest. He loves his dad fiercely. And he understands that his mom is in heaven. I think one of my favorite parts of this book was when Grayson said he has a “Heaven Mommy” but he wants an “Earth Mommy” too. Such a smart, sweet child. Harlow told me that she based his character on her son, and all I can think is “man, I would LOVE to meet her son!” Grayson is empathetic and gracious, and wicked smart. He’s the perfect missing puzzle piece to this story. I couldn’t have asked for a better written child. I’m blown away again by Harlow’s insane talent. This is not a story you want to miss out on. It tests your limits and asks a lot of you as a reader, but it’s well worth it. This story is definitely the most raw and the deepest of any of her books. If you’re anything like me, you’ll finish this book and need some time to simply sit and let it all sink in. It’s an incredibly powerful story and it leaves you feeling raw, but satisfied. I can’t compliment Harlow enough on how truly impressed I was with this masterpiece. I’m in complete awe of her talent. If you take anything away from this review, I hope it’s that you will give this story a chance. 5 stars!
“I’ll meet you on the other side of the stars.”
I’m currently suffering from a major book hangover after finishing this book. I’m recovering, or trying to. This story was surprisingly painful. I knew it was going to be a difficult read because of the nature of the story, but I wasn’t prepared. Make sure you have some tissues with you. You’re in for a bumpy ride.
To say this story holds a special place in my heart isn’t enough. This story is everything to me. It speaks volumes about grief and moving forward. It drives home the meaning of forgiveness. This is a story of second chances, of re-discovering what it means to fall in love. Harlow gives and takes equally from her readers throughout this book. This is a story of a man who lost his wife and, five years later, still isn’t over that loss. Luke hasn’t been able to move on from losing the love of his life, Hannah, in a car accident when his son, Grayson, was only three months old. Now, five years later, Luke is desperately in need of a nanny after his mother falls, and breaks her hip, and can no longer care for Grayson. That’s when Rachel comes into the picture. Rachel is Piper’s best friend from New York. Piper is the heroine in Harlow’s last book, Captivated. Rachel moves to Emerson Falls shortly after Piper and Cash get back together (if you haven’t read their book – DO IT NOW). She is planning on teaching elementary school, but needs to finish some classes in order to get her teaching license for the state. At the beginning of our novel, she’s currently living with Cash and Piper, but is looking for somewhere to move on her own. When she agrees to be Grayson’s nanny, Luke has her move into his house. (There are a few extra scenes in between that I’ve left out, but you’ll just have to read the book to see what you missed *wink wink*).
These two characters are drawn to each other from the very beginning. Rachel lets herself get swept up in Luke and his life, she relishes in feeling like she belongs somewhere. She loves Grayson with her whole heart and thoroughly enjoys taking care of him. Luke is on the opposite end of the spectrum. He struggles daily with his attraction to Rachel. He feels like he is cheating on his late wife. He doesn’t want to move on from Hannah, and he’s constantly at war with himself as time moves forward and his attraction to Rachel only grows. When Luke finally gives in and takes Rachel out on a date, it’s like the stars have aligned. They share a beautiful weekend together and you think everything might finally work out…but you’re wrong. Luke still feels like something is holding him back. He can’t fully give himself to Rachel. Guys, I’ve got to admit, this was so difficult for me to read. I felt SO terrible for Rachel, feeling like she didn’t deserve this wishy-washy back and forth from Luke. But I also saw it from his perspective, he never truly had the chance to grieve for his wife. He jumped into being a single dad immediately. It wasn’t until he met Rachel that he started processing his loss and what it might mean to move on. That’s HUGE, right? I mean, how often is it that you read about someone simultaneously experiencing grief and falling in love? That’s what made this book so special. You get to experience a miraculous story about a brave man finding his way again. It brought so many tears to my eyes.
Okay, I don’t know if I’m allowed to say this or not but Harlow named Rachel after me. That’s right folks! HOW FREAKING COOL IS THAT??? Okay, now that I’ve had my grand reveal (hehehe), let’s talk about this ending…I’m not giving anything away…but I just want to say that the epilogue was everything I needed. Specifically this: “Through therapy and being honest with Rachel over the past two years, I’ve been able to conquer a lot of my fears about death and moving on with my life…”. Truthfully, that gave me all the closure I needed for this story. It left me with so much hope for this couple, knowing that they have been through the ringer, but with each other they are able to get through anything. According to Luke, “feeling is living” and he was out of touch for so many years AND for most of this book! He wasn’t living until he met Rachel. She made him feel alive again and that’s because he felt SO much when he was with her. I’m such a huge proponent of living for the “now”. You never know when it will be your last day on this earth, so it’s important to have no regrets. Luke shows us what that means when he makes a conscious decision to move forward with his life. IT’S SUCH A PHENOMENAL STORY.
Last thing to discuss (I promise)…Grayson. He’s honestly one of my favorite parts of this story. Children either make or break a novel for me, and Grayson definitely exceeded all expectations. He loves facts about the human body. He’s so adorable and honest. He loves his dad fiercely. And he understands that his mom is in heaven. I think one of my favorite parts of this book was when Grayson said he has a “Heaven Mommy” but he wants an “Earth Mommy” too. Such a smart, sweet child. Harlow told me that she based his character on her son, and all I can think is “man, I would LOVE to meet her son!” Grayson is empathetic and gracious, and wicked smart. He’s the perfect missing puzzle piece to this story. I couldn’t have asked for a better written child. I’m blown away again by Harlow’s insane talent. This is not a story you want to miss out on. It tests your limits and asks a lot of you as a reader, but it’s well worth it. This story is definitely the most raw and the deepest of any of her books. If you’re anything like me, you’ll finish this book and need some time to simply sit and let it all sink in. It’s an incredibly powerful story and it leaves you feeling raw, but satisfied. I can’t compliment Harlow enough on how truly impressed I was with this masterpiece. I’m in complete awe of her talent. If you take anything away from this review, I hope it’s that you will give this story a chance. 5 stars!
“I’ll meet you on the other side of the stars.”
June 15, 2020
Harlow James I hate you right now (and I’m willing to bet you’re not even sorry!). This book made me cry - ugly cry to the point where I couldn’t read the words anymore. How could you do that to me? To moi - One of your biggest fans and lover of the Emerson Falls series?
To me, Luke Henderson is perfect on paper. He’s a single daddy, ex law enforcement officer, turned professor - need I say more? Luke is the holy trinity of book boyfriends. But not all that glitters is gold. He lost the love of his life, his wife in the most tragic of ways leaving him to pick up the pieces and care for his newborn son. And this is where I become consumed by him and his struggle, his pain becomes my pain and I feel for him on all levels.
Rachel is an angel. She is sweet, loving, compassionate and above all else patient. She meets Luke and his son Grayson on campus and offers to help Luke out of a jam. One afternoon turns into a permanent job as his live in nanny. She immediately falls in love with the five year old boy and develops feelings for his father.
Luke has been emotionally closed off for the last five years and has every intention of remaining that way until a certain nanny worms her way into his head and heart. His internal struggle consumes him and the guilt he feels is tangible. You want to reach into your Kindle, stroke his hair, and say “there there”. Inevitably you know that he is going to run from the light that Rachel brings to his life but it’s how he overcomes his fears and makes room for her, both in his heart and in his life that makes this the emotional Five Plus Star read that it is. Watching Luke, Rachel and Grayson (and Hannah) get their happily ever after makes this perhaps my favorite book in the Emerson Falls Series. TBR it and Enjoy (keep the tissues handy).
P.S. Harlow James I can safely say I love you again now that I’ve gotten a hold of myself and have finished writing this review. xoxo.
To me, Luke Henderson is perfect on paper. He’s a single daddy, ex law enforcement officer, turned professor - need I say more? Luke is the holy trinity of book boyfriends. But not all that glitters is gold. He lost the love of his life, his wife in the most tragic of ways leaving him to pick up the pieces and care for his newborn son. And this is where I become consumed by him and his struggle, his pain becomes my pain and I feel for him on all levels.
Rachel is an angel. She is sweet, loving, compassionate and above all else patient. She meets Luke and his son Grayson on campus and offers to help Luke out of a jam. One afternoon turns into a permanent job as his live in nanny. She immediately falls in love with the five year old boy and develops feelings for his father.
Luke has been emotionally closed off for the last five years and has every intention of remaining that way until a certain nanny worms her way into his head and heart. His internal struggle consumes him and the guilt he feels is tangible. You want to reach into your Kindle, stroke his hair, and say “there there”. Inevitably you know that he is going to run from the light that Rachel brings to his life but it’s how he overcomes his fears and makes room for her, both in his heart and in his life that makes this the emotional Five Plus Star read that it is. Watching Luke, Rachel and Grayson (and Hannah) get their happily ever after makes this perhaps my favorite book in the Emerson Falls Series. TBR it and Enjoy (keep the tissues handy).
P.S. Harlow James I can safely say I love you again now that I’ve gotten a hold of myself and have finished writing this review. xoxo.
June 16, 2020
This book was a masterpiece in emotional, heartbreaking, second chance romance. Luke lost his wife in a horrific car crash when his son was 3 months old. A piece of him understandably died that day with his wife. Five years later, his aging parents can longer care for Grayson full time while Luke works...enter Rachel. We met Rachel in Book 3, Captivated, as Piper's best friend from New York. The meet cute with Rachel and Luke's son Grayson gave me all the warm fuzzy feelings. She immediately falls for Grayson and Luke, following his gut, hires her to be his live in Nanny. Luke and Rachel are immediately drawn to each other, carefully navigating this scary new relationship. The way Harlow James writes Luke's conflicted inner thoughts and guilt is so painful but also relatable. His conversations with is sister are also beautiful and honest. As Luke and Rachel's love story unfolds, at the perfect pace I might add, both Luke and Rachel's inner conflicts and struggles reach their tipping point when they realize how much they love each other but are unsure if they can move past Luke's fear and apprehension. The scene where his wife gives him the sign that he CAN and SHOULD move on, broke my heart but also pieced it back together at the same time. Luke are Rachel were destined to be together and this painful, emotional, relatable, second chance love story is perfection. I loved everything about this book and these characters.
Harlow James writes incredible prologues and epilogues too. The ending to this beautiful story had me crying happy tears and the epilogue was pure perfection. This book is easily one of the best books I've read in 2020 and is one of those stories that will stay in the back of my mind because it was so powerfully emotional, relatable and perfect. Harlow's writing and pacing of this story was perfect and I wouldn't change a thing.
Harlow James writes incredible prologues and epilogues too. The ending to this beautiful story had me crying happy tears and the epilogue was pure perfection. This book is easily one of the best books I've read in 2020 and is one of those stories that will stay in the back of my mind because it was so powerfully emotional, relatable and perfect. Harlow's writing and pacing of this story was perfect and I wouldn't change a thing.
June 18, 2020
Revived by Harlow James
I am voluntarily reviewing this ARC.
Revived is romance in its purest form. I was drawn into this sweet, heart warming, heart breaking, beautiful love story and found myself fighting back tears a lot. A beautiful man, a widow and now, single dad, hires a nanny for his four year old son. Rachel connects with both Luke and his son, Grayson, instantly. The beauty in thier story is that it’s just that, their story. There’s no added plot twist...it’s not needed. And I love this author’s restraint in writing and letting their story speak for itself. It makes it so much more potent.
As straight forward as this story is, it still managed to surprise me and hold my attention. I have to warn you, you’re going to fall head over heels in love with Grayson, Luke’s son. That love story... Grayson and his dad, Grayson and Rachel, even Grayson and his mommy in heaven...there are no words. Even writing this, I feel my heart swelling.
This is such a good read and I whole heartedly recommend it.
I want to give 5 stars, but because my heart is so full, I’m giving it five hearts!!!
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
I am voluntarily reviewing this ARC.
Revived is romance in its purest form. I was drawn into this sweet, heart warming, heart breaking, beautiful love story and found myself fighting back tears a lot. A beautiful man, a widow and now, single dad, hires a nanny for his four year old son. Rachel connects with both Luke and his son, Grayson, instantly. The beauty in thier story is that it’s just that, their story. There’s no added plot twist...it’s not needed. And I love this author’s restraint in writing and letting their story speak for itself. It makes it so much more potent.
As straight forward as this story is, it still managed to surprise me and hold my attention. I have to warn you, you’re going to fall head over heels in love with Grayson, Luke’s son. That love story... Grayson and his dad, Grayson and Rachel, even Grayson and his mommy in heaven...there are no words. Even writing this, I feel my heart swelling.
This is such a good read and I whole heartedly recommend it.
I want to give 5 stars, but because my heart is so full, I’m giving it five hearts!!!
❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
June 19, 2020
Oh my heart! This book hit me right in the heart and gave me all the feels. From the very first page I was instantly drawn into Luke and Rachel's story and I couldn't put this book down. Luke has dealt with a loss that no one should ever have to face and moving on and picking up the pieces has been hard and devastating for him. When Rachel walks into his life, his world is literally turned upside down and I thoroughly enjoyed Luke's journey to his happy ending. This story has so much heart and soul in it, the story is captivating and keeps your attention from start to finish, the characters are relatable and such a joy to read about and don't get me started on Grayson! This kid, will literally melt your heart! If you are a fan of small town romances, single parent romances and heartfelt romances that will stay with you for years to come, then this book is for you!
June 15, 2020
What a great story! All the characters were written and betrayed beautifully. Although, I think Grayson stole the show. Remember in the movie Jerry Maguire, the little blonde headed boy talking about how much the human head weighs? That is who I pictured for Grayson. This book gave me ALL the feels as I watched 2 people fall in love, and one of them doesn't think he can or that he's ready to move on. The closer I got to the end, the harder those heart strings pulled. First tears of sadness, then came tears of happiness. If anyone deserved a second chance, it was Luke. Great job Harlow!
June 18, 2020
revived is luke and Rachel's love besides family to watch his son since his wife has passed.
but Rachel just happens to be the perfect person to help with his son she is so patient kind beautiful wait what luke knows he shouldn't be letting someone else in he already had his forever.
so after much fighting it he sees their relationship shifting we see previous characters enhancing this story.
but what will luke do when Hannah's family is set to come around for grayson's birthday ?
but Rachel just happens to be the perfect person to help with his son she is so patient kind beautiful wait what luke knows he shouldn't be letting someone else in he already had his forever.
so after much fighting it he sees their relationship shifting we see previous characters enhancing this story.
but what will luke do when Hannah's family is set to come around for grayson's birthday ?
July 28, 2020
4 Greyson stars!!!
Single-dad romance and nanny trope, my favourite. And I loved the emotions in the book, the climax, the feelings! Luke was so sweet, and Greyson was adorable! Loved this book.
I just wish the epilogue was further into the future!
Definitely recommend!!!
Single-dad romance and nanny trope, my favourite. And I loved the emotions in the book, the climax, the feelings! Luke was so sweet, and Greyson was adorable! Loved this book.
I just wish the epilogue was further into the future!
Definitely recommend!!!
June 18, 2020
Revived is a single dad, a forbidden romance which is told from the first-person point of view and is an emotional and heart-gripping addition to the Emerson Falls series. "See you on the other side of the stars"
Luke was loving his life as a Sheriff's deputy, newly married man and father until one dreadful night when he lost his wife unexpectedly. He shut himself out from the world until his family brings him back into the world. When Luke's mother gets hurt and can no longer take care of Grayson, he is forced to hire a nanny. Rachel has just moved to Emerson Falls to start her own independent life away from her empty feeling life in New York. She is forced to wait until the fall to start her dream job so she agrees to meet Piper's friend who is looking for a nanny like yesterday. Shocked to find out it is the same dad of the little boy she fell in love with only the day before. Luke is having feelings again for the first time since his late wife and Rachael are slowly falling for her boss who is broken. Rachael's hope is that she can help Luke come back to full life again and move on but not forget his first love.
Harlow James has a serious way with words and the emotional fierceness of this story was unbelievable and I totally ugly cried. Grayson was one of the most energetic little boys and so loveable. Rachael was perfect for Luke with her love and patience. It was great to also connect with the other couples in Emerson Falls and they are a great group of friends. I highly recommend this entire series and I am excited to see what comes next from Harlow James.
*ARC was generously provided in exchange for my honest review*
June 18, 2020
Harlow James is now one of my go to authors, the Emerson Falls series is a must read and the latest instalment Revived didn’t disappoint. Ever since the ending of Captivated, I have been intrigued by Rachel and Luke as a couple and couldn’t wait to read their story, knowing it wouldn’t be an easy read.
Five years ago, Luke became a single father and widow, having lost his wife, Hannah, tragically in a car accident when his son Greyson was a few months old. Since then, Luke has kept everyone out, reluctant to accept help from anyone except his family, focussing solely on his son and work. When he unexpectedly needs to hire a nanny, he meets Rachel, who forms an instant bond with his son, and he gives her the job. But Rachel’s also the first woman he’s been attracted to since his wife’s death, and Luke doesn’t know what to do with his feelings. Rachel has moved to Emerson Falls for a fresh start, but the last thing she expected to find was a job as a nanny and, in turn, to fall for her boss. She moves in with them and is included in their day-to-day life, causing her love for both Greyson and Luke to grow. Knowing what they’ve both been through, she is cautious about starting anything with Luke, but is willing to wait for him to be ready to accept her into his heart and home for good. But will Luke ever be able to make that step and open up to the possibility of loving someone other than Hannah and give love a second chance?
This book, wow, all the emotions. I swear my heart was aching for not only Luke but Rachel too throughout this book. Luke loved Hannah dearly, he harboured his love for her ever since her death and anytime he thought about moving on, he would feel so incredibly guilty, it broke my heart. He couldn’t see how he would be able to love someone the way they deserved when he still felt so strongly for his late wife. There were times when I just want to shake him and make him understand he deserved a second chance and could love two women in a lifetime. Watching him learn to open his heart again to Rachel was emotional, I felt like I went through it all with him. But as difficult as the emotions were to process, it also helped him heal. Once he had let Rachel in, he was all in, he loved her hard and couldn’t wait for their future.
But my favourite was Rachel, she was so strong, compassionate and patient. She was there for both those boys when they needed her, always putting their feelings first and trying to see the good in any situation. She was empathetic, caring and she loved Greyson as if he were her own but made it clear that Hannah was his mother. She at no point wanted to replace Hannah in their lives, she just wanted to be someone else they could love and accept into their lives, and I loved how she included Hannah in their lives often. It took a lot for her to choose to walk away, she knew she deserved to be treated with more respect and love, but what I loved most was how she knew that Luke was capable of that, he just had to realise that himself.
Their relationship was slow burning, as you’d expect from a grieving widow, and it takes Luke a while to come to terms with his growing feelings for Rachel. There were some incredibly sweet moments, with the KitKat and the telescope, which made me think about the process of healing and how you can find happiness in even the saddest of circumstances. Revived felt different to other books in this series, in a good way. There wasn’t drama and action as in previous books, it slowed down and I love how Harlow can change the pace of a series so easily between books. It wasn’t lacking in anything though; it was full of emotion and steam as you’d come to expect from Harlow’s work. Revived is a beautiful story about loss, love and moving on which will put you through all the emotions the characters go through.
As always, I loved returning to Emerson Falls, and going back to the friendship group to see how their own HEA’s are going. I love having secondary characters which I am invested in and adding Greyson to the mix this time meant I adored them even more this time. Overall, this book had everything you need in a romance novel, happy, sweet moments, puts you through heart-breaking and emotional situations, but also contains a lot of hope. I cannot wait for Jess’ book next! Revived is another must read from Harlow!
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.*
Five years ago, Luke became a single father and widow, having lost his wife, Hannah, tragically in a car accident when his son Greyson was a few months old. Since then, Luke has kept everyone out, reluctant to accept help from anyone except his family, focussing solely on his son and work. When he unexpectedly needs to hire a nanny, he meets Rachel, who forms an instant bond with his son, and he gives her the job. But Rachel’s also the first woman he’s been attracted to since his wife’s death, and Luke doesn’t know what to do with his feelings. Rachel has moved to Emerson Falls for a fresh start, but the last thing she expected to find was a job as a nanny and, in turn, to fall for her boss. She moves in with them and is included in their day-to-day life, causing her love for both Greyson and Luke to grow. Knowing what they’ve both been through, she is cautious about starting anything with Luke, but is willing to wait for him to be ready to accept her into his heart and home for good. But will Luke ever be able to make that step and open up to the possibility of loving someone other than Hannah and give love a second chance?
This book, wow, all the emotions. I swear my heart was aching for not only Luke but Rachel too throughout this book. Luke loved Hannah dearly, he harboured his love for her ever since her death and anytime he thought about moving on, he would feel so incredibly guilty, it broke my heart. He couldn’t see how he would be able to love someone the way they deserved when he still felt so strongly for his late wife. There were times when I just want to shake him and make him understand he deserved a second chance and could love two women in a lifetime. Watching him learn to open his heart again to Rachel was emotional, I felt like I went through it all with him. But as difficult as the emotions were to process, it also helped him heal. Once he had let Rachel in, he was all in, he loved her hard and couldn’t wait for their future.
But my favourite was Rachel, she was so strong, compassionate and patient. She was there for both those boys when they needed her, always putting their feelings first and trying to see the good in any situation. She was empathetic, caring and she loved Greyson as if he were her own but made it clear that Hannah was his mother. She at no point wanted to replace Hannah in their lives, she just wanted to be someone else they could love and accept into their lives, and I loved how she included Hannah in their lives often. It took a lot for her to choose to walk away, she knew she deserved to be treated with more respect and love, but what I loved most was how she knew that Luke was capable of that, he just had to realise that himself.
Their relationship was slow burning, as you’d expect from a grieving widow, and it takes Luke a while to come to terms with his growing feelings for Rachel. There were some incredibly sweet moments, with the KitKat and the telescope, which made me think about the process of healing and how you can find happiness in even the saddest of circumstances. Revived felt different to other books in this series, in a good way. There wasn’t drama and action as in previous books, it slowed down and I love how Harlow can change the pace of a series so easily between books. It wasn’t lacking in anything though; it was full of emotion and steam as you’d come to expect from Harlow’s work. Revived is a beautiful story about loss, love and moving on which will put you through all the emotions the characters go through.
As always, I loved returning to Emerson Falls, and going back to the friendship group to see how their own HEA’s are going. I love having secondary characters which I am invested in and adding Greyson to the mix this time meant I adored them even more this time. Overall, this book had everything you need in a romance novel, happy, sweet moments, puts you through heart-breaking and emotional situations, but also contains a lot of hope. I cannot wait for Jess’ book next! Revived is another must read from Harlow!
*I received a copy of this book in exchange for my honest review.*
June 18, 2020
Breathtakingly Beautiful & Gut-wrenchingly Emotional
Harlow James has given us a lot in the Emerson Falls Series...enemies to lovers, forbidden romance, reformed bad boys and lots of delicious drama. And now in Revived she has given us a gut-wrenchingly emotional story about loss, moving on and second chances. I promise you that this book will have you wiping tears away as Harlow brings ALL the emotions with this book.
Luke is a widower and single dad. He is not really living life but doing the best he can to cope with the heartache of the tragic & sudden way he lost his wife while raising his son the best he can. An unexpected situation forces Luke to hire a nanny. Rachel is light and everything good. She loves with her whole heart. Luke did not expect Rachel...not the way she takes such loving care of his son, not the way she fits into their lives and definitely not the way she makes him feel. But is Luke strong enough to move on from his loss or will his fears make him lose Rachel?
This story is emotional. The battle Luke has with himself is heartbreaking. His fight between loving again and feeling like he is betraying his wife will rip open your heart. The sadness Rachel feels knowing she might not ever have his heart is gut wrenching. I cried multiple times reading this story.
We see a lot of the characters from the prior books which I love as we get to see where they are today. We get the most adorable little boy, Grayson, and his obsession with the human body. We get steam, passion, fear, anger, sadness, hope and ultimately the beautiful fight for a second chance at a HEA. It’s really hard earned in this book...Luke is battling himself and they both also fighting for each other. It is a beautiful thing to read.
Each book in this series just keeps getting better and better. Harlow really knows how to write emotions and make the reader feel those emotions. She also knows how to bring the passion and chemistry by giving us those steamy scenes we all want. Overall, this book is everything you could want in a romance and I would highly recommend. 5++++ stars from me.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
Harlow James has given us a lot in the Emerson Falls Series...enemies to lovers, forbidden romance, reformed bad boys and lots of delicious drama. And now in Revived she has given us a gut-wrenchingly emotional story about loss, moving on and second chances. I promise you that this book will have you wiping tears away as Harlow brings ALL the emotions with this book.
Luke is a widower and single dad. He is not really living life but doing the best he can to cope with the heartache of the tragic & sudden way he lost his wife while raising his son the best he can. An unexpected situation forces Luke to hire a nanny. Rachel is light and everything good. She loves with her whole heart. Luke did not expect Rachel...not the way she takes such loving care of his son, not the way she fits into their lives and definitely not the way she makes him feel. But is Luke strong enough to move on from his loss or will his fears make him lose Rachel?
This story is emotional. The battle Luke has with himself is heartbreaking. His fight between loving again and feeling like he is betraying his wife will rip open your heart. The sadness Rachel feels knowing she might not ever have his heart is gut wrenching. I cried multiple times reading this story.
We see a lot of the characters from the prior books which I love as we get to see where they are today. We get the most adorable little boy, Grayson, and his obsession with the human body. We get steam, passion, fear, anger, sadness, hope and ultimately the beautiful fight for a second chance at a HEA. It’s really hard earned in this book...Luke is battling himself and they both also fighting for each other. It is a beautiful thing to read.
Each book in this series just keeps getting better and better. Harlow really knows how to write emotions and make the reader feel those emotions. She also knows how to bring the passion and chemistry by giving us those steamy scenes we all want. Overall, this book is everything you could want in a romance and I would highly recommend. 5++++ stars from me.
I received an ARC in exchange for my honest opinion.
June 23, 2020
Revived is a beautifully written raw, heartbreaking and heartwarming story that pulled at each and everyone of my heart strings. This story took me on a emotional journey about grief, second chances, family, and love after loss. The inner turmoil single dad and widower Luke experiences throughout this book is absolutely heart wrenching. The anguish he feels about the possibility of opening up to love again after losing his wife is heartbreaking and can be felt deeply as emotions pour from the pages.
Rachel was a beautiful character and the perfect heroine. She was caring, compassionate, empathetic, patient, and loving to Luke and his son Grayson. Grayson the little heart melter was adorable, sweet and hilarious with his constant facts.
I give so much credit to Harlow James who approached and tackled this sensitive topic in a truly compassionate and beautiful way.
While this story at times broke my heart and had me crying ugly tears, after reading the beautiful epilogue my heart felt revived 💛.
Rachel was a beautiful character and the perfect heroine. She was caring, compassionate, empathetic, patient, and loving to Luke and his son Grayson. Grayson the little heart melter was adorable, sweet and hilarious with his constant facts.
I give so much credit to Harlow James who approached and tackled this sensitive topic in a truly compassionate and beautiful way.
While this story at times broke my heart and had me crying ugly tears, after reading the beautiful epilogue my heart felt revived 💛.
June 7, 2020
Harlow, just so you know, Luke made me mad crazy!!!! Yes, I know he had his reasons but still I wanted to strangle him. I loved Rachel so much, she's what every man should desire in a woman.
With every book you wrote I loved this series more and more. I know I said Captivated is my favorite but I have to say that I loved this one more.
Everyone, this is a slow-burn second chance story full of grief, love, passion and a sweet kid you'll adore.
This story shows us that sometimes, although we feel that we will never overcome the pain of losing our loved one, we will learn that we have enough room in our hearts to be able to love again. It's just a way of life showing us the ugly part of it for we to learn to appreciate its beauty.
Luke and Rachel story must be read. It's real, emotional and beautiful.
With every book you wrote I loved this series more and more. I know I said Captivated is my favorite but I have to say that I loved this one more.
Everyone, this is a slow-burn second chance story full of grief, love, passion and a sweet kid you'll adore.
This story shows us that sometimes, although we feel that we will never overcome the pain of losing our loved one, we will learn that we have enough room in our hearts to be able to love again. It's just a way of life showing us the ugly part of it for we to learn to appreciate its beauty.
Luke and Rachel story must be read. It's real, emotional and beautiful.
June 29, 2020
You simply need to read this story.
Luke has been raising his son alone, since the untimely death of his wife Hannah. Work and Grayson are all he needs, until he meets Rachel. Rachel becomes his son’s nanny; while watching her fall in love with Grayson, Luke’s own heart begins to thaw from the frozen world it’s been tucked away in since he lost Hannah.
Turmoil and uncertainty arise. How can Luke have feelings for Rachel, when he hasn’t gotten over the loss of Hannah? Is it possible to love again?
Luke has been raising his son alone, since the untimely death of his wife Hannah. Work and Grayson are all he needs, until he meets Rachel. Rachel becomes his son’s nanny; while watching her fall in love with Grayson, Luke’s own heart begins to thaw from the frozen world it’s been tucked away in since he lost Hannah.
Turmoil and uncertainty arise. How can Luke have feelings for Rachel, when he hasn’t gotten over the loss of Hannah? Is it possible to love again?
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 2, 2020
She does it again!
It’s such a sensitive topic to discuss losing a loved one and Harlow has done this in such an amazing way. You could truly feel Luke’s pain guilty and grief as he goes on with his life after the death is his wife. Rachel is the absolute best for Luke and bringing him back to life, making him feel and love again. It’s so hard not to emerge yourself in this story. And I definitely can’t forget Grayson the four year energetic boy obsessed with the human body. His innocence and acceptance of Rachel is simply beautiful.
It’s such a sensitive topic to discuss losing a loved one and Harlow has done this in such an amazing way. You could truly feel Luke’s pain guilty and grief as he goes on with his life after the death is his wife. Rachel is the absolute best for Luke and bringing him back to life, making him feel and love again. It’s so hard not to emerge yourself in this story. And I definitely can’t forget Grayson the four year energetic boy obsessed with the human body. His innocence and acceptance of Rachel is simply beautiful.
March 30, 2022
This book broke me apart at times and then put me back together. Luke and Rachel had a hard time claiming their happily ever after.
After Luke lost his wife early in their marriage, he wrote off love out of fear. Five years later out of desperation, he had to find a nanny for his son. Rachel entered the picture. Finally, Luke started to believe in love again.
I just love Emerson Falls. It is everything you need from a small town romance series. I always enjoy the cameos from past characters as well. I have one book left, while it's bittersweet, I know I have to know the ending.
After Luke lost his wife early in their marriage, he wrote off love out of fear. Five years later out of desperation, he had to find a nanny for his son. Rachel entered the picture. Finally, Luke started to believe in love again.
I just love Emerson Falls. It is everything you need from a small town romance series. I always enjoy the cameos from past characters as well. I have one book left, while it's bittersweet, I know I have to know the ending.
August 13, 2020
So sexy, so heart-rending, so good!
Another great book in the series! I was especially impressed because I’m not always a fan of kids in romance novels (I’m a mom, what can I say, I don’t usually find that romantic lol) but Grayson was a cutie and was integral in how their romance played out. And oh goodness, though I knew how it would play out there was no accounting for all those feels. So sexy, so heart-rending, so good!
Another great book in the series! I was especially impressed because I’m not always a fan of kids in romance novels (I’m a mom, what can I say, I don’t usually find that romantic lol) but Grayson was a cutie and was integral in how their romance played out. And oh goodness, though I knew how it would play out there was no accounting for all those feels. So sexy, so heart-rending, so good!
January 3, 2021
Oh my heart
Luke and Rachel had me completely mesmerized. I was so into their story I couldn't stop until the last page. My heart broke for Luke over and over but there were still times I wanted to smack him upside the head. Rachel was beautiful inside and out and little Grayson just completed this story. I love this series so much.
Luke and Rachel had me completely mesmerized. I was so into their story I couldn't stop until the last page. My heart broke for Luke over and over but there were still times I wanted to smack him upside the head. Rachel was beautiful inside and out and little Grayson just completed this story. I love this series so much.
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