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These Hands: A Love Story
These hands are magic - but must be kept a secret. These hands are love - but keep me loveless. These hands are life - but might be the death of me. These hands are mine.
Lucas Daniel was born with the power to heal. But it’s not a gift, instead, it’s a life sentence filled with isolation and loneliness, leaving him starved of the love and affection he yearns for. During his secluded childhood, he defies his mother’s over-protective rules and tries to befriend Kelsey, the new girl next door. But she thinks he’s a freak and wants nothing to do with him … until she accidentally discovers his secret.
They soon form an inseparable bond, sharing their hopes and dreams for the future. Until a devastating event leaves Kelsey’s life hanging in the balance. Lucas does everything he can to save her but leaves her face scarred for life. Believing his secret has been exposed, his mother whisks him away and changes their identities.
Now a reclusive country veterinarian, he’s managed to keep his secret for decades. But when Kelsey moves to the same rural town, he just might get everything he's ever wanted, and everything he's ever feared.
Lucas Daniel was born with the power to heal. But it’s not a gift, instead, it’s a life sentence filled with isolation and loneliness, leaving him starved of the love and affection he yearns for. During his secluded childhood, he defies his mother’s over-protective rules and tries to befriend Kelsey, the new girl next door. But she thinks he’s a freak and wants nothing to do with him … until she accidentally discovers his secret.
They soon form an inseparable bond, sharing their hopes and dreams for the future. Until a devastating event leaves Kelsey’s life hanging in the balance. Lucas does everything he can to save her but leaves her face scarred for life. Believing his secret has been exposed, his mother whisks him away and changes their identities.
Now a reclusive country veterinarian, he’s managed to keep his secret for decades. But when Kelsey moves to the same rural town, he just might get everything he's ever wanted, and everything he's ever feared.
469 pages, Kindle Edition
Published March 23, 2024
310 people are currently reading
1053 people want to read
About the author
Darcy Daniel
9 books133 followersI've loved reading from an early age and fell in love with many genres, but was drawn most of all to thrillers and romances - leaving me ecstatic when I won the Charter Oak Golden Acorn contest for Best Contemporary Series Romance.
I'm lucky enough to live in a picturesque, historic small country town in Sydney, Australia with my two energetic dogs.
I'm lucky enough to live in a picturesque, historic small country town in Sydney, Australia with my two energetic dogs.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 86 reviews
March 14, 2024
A big thanks to Darcy for the ARC copy! I finished the book on the plane and was both heartbroken and relieved. Heartbroken because of how it has ended; relieved because it (in general) went as I hoped. Yet this is a book that you don't want to finish. I'd be excited to dive in if there's a sequel (s).
Although it's a romance, I see it as rather a community tale that centers on the romance of the couple, with everyone else's stories revolved around them. It feels to me like stories within a story. It has so much more than I expected from a romance, and none of the"noises" feels distracting to me. They all integrate into the romance while each standing on its own, and every one in the community plays a part in both Kelsey and Lucas's personal life. I have to say: it's not the romance that fascinates me the most. Had the community not involved in the romance, the story might not have been so amazing. The romance itself is nothing new, it has been used millions of times. Yet Darcy has stood out my extending the scope beyond just the couple. It’s the people around that’s made it a lot more romantic.
As someone with a complicated childhood memory, I relate to each of the characters despite their respective flaws. It's good that they're flawed, because it resonates with the reality: nobody is perfect. On the other hand, I do see the subtlety of how differently things can unfold due to the choices we each make. Had Bryce come to his senses and took responsibility for his wrongdoing, things would've been smooth; had Georgia be a tad less submissive to her father, things may have come out differently. Even Lucas and Kelsey had to make choices for themselves. I can't help but think: maybe we should all put more thoughts into the choices we make in life, as they might influence the people around us.
Five-star for sure, and I'm pre-ordering a copy for my kindle library! (it'll look better on the kindle device)
Although it's a romance, I see it as rather a community tale that centers on the romance of the couple, with everyone else's stories revolved around them. It feels to me like stories within a story. It has so much more than I expected from a romance, and none of the"noises" feels distracting to me. They all integrate into the romance while each standing on its own, and every one in the community plays a part in both Kelsey and Lucas's personal life. I have to say: it's not the romance that fascinates me the most. Had the community not involved in the romance, the story might not have been so amazing. The romance itself is nothing new, it has been used millions of times. Yet Darcy has stood out my extending the scope beyond just the couple. It’s the people around that’s made it a lot more romantic.
As someone with a complicated childhood memory, I relate to each of the characters despite their respective flaws. It's good that they're flawed, because it resonates with the reality: nobody is perfect. On the other hand, I do see the subtlety of how differently things can unfold due to the choices we each make. Had Bryce come to his senses and took responsibility for his wrongdoing, things would've been smooth; had Georgia be a tad less submissive to her father, things may have come out differently. Even Lucas and Kelsey had to make choices for themselves. I can't help but think: maybe we should all put more thoughts into the choices we make in life, as they might influence the people around us.
Five-star for sure, and I'm pre-ordering a copy for my kindle library! (it'll look better on the kindle device)
July 16, 2025
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. At first, I had to rewind it as I couldn't concentrate, but within a couple of chapters, I was obsessed. It was just the audiobook I needed to listen to recently.
It was my first duet narration, and I loved how it worked. It seemed like it was a full cast kind of set up but just with the two narrators.
This was not the story I expected, but I loved it nonetheless!
It was my first duet narration, and I loved how it worked. It seemed like it was a full cast kind of set up but just with the two narrators.
This was not the story I expected, but I loved it nonetheless!
March 23, 2024
What a captivating love story! My emotions were certainly taken on a journey from the beginning until the very end. I had no hesitation at all in giving it ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
The journey Lucas and Kelsey take as children, and how it evolves into adulthood, showing that no time nor distance was ever going to get in the way of their undeniable bond and attraction toward one another. The way the sense of community was woven throughout the story, and how everything came together in the end, truly made it a beautiful story that you simply could not put down.
I received These Hands from the author as part of a giveaway and have provided this review completely voluntarily.
The journey Lucas and Kelsey take as children, and how it evolves into adulthood, showing that no time nor distance was ever going to get in the way of their undeniable bond and attraction toward one another. The way the sense of community was woven throughout the story, and how everything came together in the end, truly made it a beautiful story that you simply could not put down.
I received These Hands from the author as part of a giveaway and have provided this review completely voluntarily.
March 11, 2024
I loved These Hands. It's a beautiful love story with a supernatural twist.
What seems like a gift to one person, is a burden to another and you can never escape or change your fate, so make the most of the time you have.
I appreciate the ARC.
What seems like a gift to one person, is a burden to another and you can never escape or change your fate, so make the most of the time you have.
I appreciate the ARC.
June 28, 2025
Darcy what have you done to me!!!!
I was lucky enough to get an arc audiobook copy for These Hands.
Do not do what I did and listen/read the last 30-40 minutes if you are going anywhere important, there are SOOOO many emotions to unpack and it’s a roller coaster, it’s safe to say I resembled a raccoon walking into work.
Lucas/Daniel is our MMC, who has special healing abilities, with, you guessed it, his hands! Which unfortunately leads him to quite a sheltered life, lest someone find out and try to take advantage of him.
Kelsey is our FMC, who befriends Lucas as a teen.
The banter between our MC’s is so fun to listen to/read.
The Aussie narration was spot on and really helped to tell the story.
Read this if you love a good wholesome love story set in Australia
I was lucky enough to get an arc audiobook copy for These Hands.
Do not do what I did and listen/read the last 30-40 minutes if you are going anywhere important, there are SOOOO many emotions to unpack and it’s a roller coaster, it’s safe to say I resembled a raccoon walking into work.
Lucas/Daniel is our MMC, who has special healing abilities, with, you guessed it, his hands! Which unfortunately leads him to quite a sheltered life, lest someone find out and try to take advantage of him.
Kelsey is our FMC, who befriends Lucas as a teen.
The banter between our MC’s is so fun to listen to/read.
The Aussie narration was spot on and really helped to tell the story.
Read this if you love a good wholesome love story set in Australia
June 21, 2025
These Hands is a tender, heartfelt rural romance that quietly sneaks up on you. Set against the backdrop of the Australian countryside, it weaves together themes of grief, healing, and unexpected love. What makes the audiobook particularly compelling is how it captures the emotional depth of the characters—especially Ellie and her internal struggle to move forward after tragedy.
The narration (Aussie!) brings warmth and sincerity to the story, perfectly matching the tone of Darcy Daniel’s writing. You can really feel the tension and slow-burn connection between the leads, and the quiet strength of the supporting characters adds layers to the narrative.
While it doesn’t rush or rely on heavy drama, These Hands resonates through its simplicity and heart. A great pick for fans of small-town romance with emotional depth and a gentle, healing pace.
4.75 ⭐️ cause of that ending 🥹
The narration (Aussie!) brings warmth and sincerity to the story, perfectly matching the tone of Darcy Daniel’s writing. You can really feel the tension and slow-burn connection between the leads, and the quiet strength of the supporting characters adds layers to the narrative.
While it doesn’t rush or rely on heavy drama, These Hands resonates through its simplicity and heart. A great pick for fans of small-town romance with emotional depth and a gentle, healing pace.
4.75 ⭐️ cause of that ending 🥹
November 6, 2025
I listened to the audiobook over a few days, and with every passing chapter I fell more in love with the story and the characters. My heart was ripped out of my chest, stomped on and then torn to shreds and yet even as I find myself completely wrecked with tears streaking my cheeks I know this is a one of kind book. I know that I will always carry these characters with me, that they'll live in my brain rent-free.
It is a stunning novel, a beautiful testament of love and an absolute masterpiece. I wasn't sure what to expect when I went into this one, all I know is that I had a wonderful time with them as they walked their journeys both separately and together. I loved the community and the found family aspect of the story. Although, my heart is broken and my soul is aching I understand that it had to be this way, otherwise it simply wouldn't fit.
I am a complete mess of emotions and yet I find myself smiling just for being lucky enough to have encountered the beauty and wonder that is These Hands.
It is a stunning novel, a beautiful testament of love and an absolute masterpiece. I wasn't sure what to expect when I went into this one, all I know is that I had a wonderful time with them as they walked their journeys both separately and together. I loved the community and the found family aspect of the story. Although, my heart is broken and my soul is aching I understand that it had to be this way, otherwise it simply wouldn't fit.
I am a complete mess of emotions and yet I find myself smiling just for being lucky enough to have encountered the beauty and wonder that is These Hands.
February 3, 2024
Overall, I liked this book. I liked the unique premise and the focus on the burden having a gift can be, not just to a person but to their loved ones as well. The characters were flawed, which made them realistic and likeable. I didn’t agree with the organization of the chapters of the book, I think there would have been a greater impact if the flashback chapters were incorporated throughout the story, rather than in one chunk. Especially the way they were written, information from the past could have been interspersed with the present, revealing more and more as the book went on. I also didn’t feel the chapters related to the secondary characters added a great deal to the story and in fact, made it feel like it dragged at those points. The same information could have been distilled through observations of other characters, especially given the author established early on the gossip heavy nature of the small town. But overall, the writing was good and I enjoyed the story. The end was predictable but exactly right. I appreciate the ARC from the author!
March 24, 2024
Hands that can heal.
I sigh. In the end there is just silence. And a tear rolls down my cheek. Not a normal HEA, but the ending sits on a happy note. And definitely a love story. Two young children finding each other and forming a special bond. That ended shortly thereafter through tragedy. To simmer through twenty years when they get the chance to rekindle their feelings into an adult version of the same bond. Then tragedy strikes again.
There are six characters that are making this story and each takes the reader along in their emotional and very realistic turmoil. It makes you laugh and angry, irritated and sad and gives you a wonderful reading experience. Highly recommended, I loved it very much.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I sigh. In the end there is just silence. And a tear rolls down my cheek. Not a normal HEA, but the ending sits on a happy note. And definitely a love story. Two young children finding each other and forming a special bond. That ended shortly thereafter through tragedy. To simmer through twenty years when they get the chance to rekindle their feelings into an adult version of the same bond. Then tragedy strikes again.
There are six characters that are making this story and each takes the reader along in their emotional and very realistic turmoil. It makes you laugh and angry, irritated and sad and gives you a wonderful reading experience. Highly recommended, I loved it very much.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 26, 2024
I loved reading These Hands,I was gripped from start to finish, I would love to read a sequel if possible🤞Thank you Darcy for giving me the opportunity to read this book
July 1, 2025
These Hands by Darcy Daniel is a gripping and emotionally layered story told from multiple points of view. At first, I wasn’t sure if the story would be for me, but I quickly found myself pulled in and completely absorbed. The plot was well-paced and engaging, and the alternating perspectives added depth to the characters and their experiences.
While I did have a strong feeling about how the story would end—and I turned out to be right—it didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment. The journey was still compelling and kept me invested until the end.
The audiobook narration was a perfect fit for this story. Sofia Lette and Antony Davis complemented each other well, and having both a male and female voice really helped bring the dual perspectives to life.
Thank you to NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for the advanced listening copy in exchange for my honest review.
While I did have a strong feeling about how the story would end—and I turned out to be right—it didn’t take away from my overall enjoyment. The journey was still compelling and kept me invested until the end.
The audiobook narration was a perfect fit for this story. Sofia Lette and Antony Davis complemented each other well, and having both a male and female voice really helped bring the dual perspectives to life.
Thank you to NetGalley and Blackstone Publishing for the advanced listening copy in exchange for my honest review.
July 1, 2025
Duet Narration- Sofia Lette & Anthony Davis
Just wow! What amazing narration. These are both new narrators to me and they blew me away.
Deeply emotional, heartfelt, and amazingly written story. This takes place in Australia and the writing truly makes you feel as if you’re there seeing it for yourself. The narrator’s did a fabulous job bringing the true emotional depth to life with these characters.
Easy to listen too and follow. I truly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to a friend.
Just wow! What amazing narration. These are both new narrators to me and they blew me away.
Deeply emotional, heartfelt, and amazingly written story. This takes place in Australia and the writing truly makes you feel as if you’re there seeing it for yourself. The narrator’s did a fabulous job bringing the true emotional depth to life with these characters.
Easy to listen too and follow. I truly enjoyed this book and would recommend it to a friend.
January 2, 2026
Unexpected ending.
Lucas’s and Kelsey’s love story was so beautiful. Lucas heals with his touch, so his mom kept him secluded his whole life so no one would find out, until he meets Kelsey. An accident rips them apart for 20 years, until they meet again and get to know who they are as adults. The ending was so unexpected in so many ways.
Lucas’s and Kelsey’s love story was so beautiful. Lucas heals with his touch, so his mom kept him secluded his whole life so no one would find out, until he meets Kelsey. An accident rips them apart for 20 years, until they meet again and get to know who they are as adults. The ending was so unexpected in so many ways.
June 28, 2025
Wonderful
Reading reviews can be a double edged sword. While confirming that this would be a story I would love, some reviews warned me of the ending. And boy, is it emotional. I really fell in love with Kelsey and Lucas and hoped they would get their happy ever after. But although it wasn't to be, Lucas gave her two irreplaceable gifts. This story will stay with me for some time.
Reading reviews can be a double edged sword. While confirming that this would be a story I would love, some reviews warned me of the ending. And boy, is it emotional. I really fell in love with Kelsey and Lucas and hoped they would get their happy ever after. But although it wasn't to be, Lucas gave her two irreplaceable gifts. This story will stay with me for some time.
September 26, 2025
I absolutely adored this book. I not only fell in love with the characters, but also the small town and the people living there. This was an emotional journey of a man with the power to heal, at terrible price. It is a beautiful love story, I had only wish for a better ending.
August 27, 2025
You know what, Darcy Daniel…? You hurt my feelings. ☹️💔🥺
For the sake of writing an arc review I will say this, go in blind. Daniel’s writing is beautiful. Painfully beautiful.
I received an audio arc from the publisher and admittedly it took me many attempts to get into the audio. There were several POVs and I kept feeling as though I was missing information because I was so confused. There were so many times I almost threw in the towel with this one but I am so glad I didn’t. Trust the process. Once everything started to click I was completely invested into the story. The narrators did an incredible job. They both have beautiful Australian accents that are so soothing to listen to. The production was performed in duet narration.
Lucas has my whole entire heart. Anytime an author can write a fictional character that you are quite literally ready to go to battle for then you know they are an amazing writer. I have nothing negative to say about this book and I think it would make an excellent choice as a book club or buddy read book. I read this solo and now I’m stuck sitting here trying to process my thoughts and feelings by myself.
For the sake of writing an arc review I will say this, go in blind. Daniel’s writing is beautiful. Painfully beautiful.
I received an audio arc from the publisher and admittedly it took me many attempts to get into the audio. There were several POVs and I kept feeling as though I was missing information because I was so confused. There were so many times I almost threw in the towel with this one but I am so glad I didn’t. Trust the process. Once everything started to click I was completely invested into the story. The narrators did an incredible job. They both have beautiful Australian accents that are so soothing to listen to. The production was performed in duet narration.
Lucas has my whole entire heart. Anytime an author can write a fictional character that you are quite literally ready to go to battle for then you know they are an amazing writer. I have nothing negative to say about this book and I think it would make an excellent choice as a book club or buddy read book. I read this solo and now I’m stuck sitting here trying to process my thoughts and feelings by myself.
June 14, 2025
A haunting and tender love story
These Hands is a haunting and tender love story wrapped in a touch of magical realism. Darcy Daniel weaves a tale that explores the burden of hidden gifts, the ache of lost love, and the hope of second chances.
The story is filled with longing, secrets, and the kind of emotional depth that stays with you. Truly moving and beautifully told.
These Hands is a haunting and tender love story wrapped in a touch of magical realism. Darcy Daniel weaves a tale that explores the burden of hidden gifts, the ache of lost love, and the hope of second chances.
The story is filled with longing, secrets, and the kind of emotional depth that stays with you. Truly moving and beautifully told.
March 5, 2024
lucas daniel is a vet doctor is very particular about his things, he has a germaphobia its stated in the book as a story progress main reason was disclosed reason for always have a gloves on, he shares a very strong bond with his mother emily.
I loved the books, story is very heart touching, beautiful love story, ending is pretty good and totally unexpected.
Really a good read for me.
I loved the books, story is very heart touching, beautiful love story, ending is pretty good and totally unexpected.
Really a good read for me.
April 8, 2024
This is a book that left me me thinking, "Wow! What did I just read?" Days later I'm still thinking about this book.
What initially drew me to read this book was the initial premise of someone having the ability to heal with their hands. As far as "superpowers" go, this is a pretty amazing one. There are both ethical and moral choices to be made by someone with this ability and when that person is a child the responsibility that comes with this capability is even larger. How do you decide if and when to use this "power"? Who is "worthy"? Is it a blessing or a curse?
While there is a love story in the background, I found it to be a secondary theme and would definitely not classify this as a romance. Personally, I typically read thrillers and mysteries. I was concerned that this would be slow paced and a chore to read. I couldn't have been more wrong! I read this front to back in one sitting. It's been days since I read it and I can't stop thinking about this book.
I've seen terms such as "women's literature", "supernatural", "love story", and "romance" used to describe this book, but I don't feel that this book neatly fits into any of these genres. In fact I haven't found myself able to place this book in any particular genre. It encompasses so many subjects and themes. I could label it as "Contemporary Fiction", but that's a very general category and doesn't begin to do this book justice.
Thank you for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
What initially drew me to read this book was the initial premise of someone having the ability to heal with their hands. As far as "superpowers" go, this is a pretty amazing one. There are both ethical and moral choices to be made by someone with this ability and when that person is a child the responsibility that comes with this capability is even larger. How do you decide if and when to use this "power"? Who is "worthy"? Is it a blessing or a curse?
While there is a love story in the background, I found it to be a secondary theme and would definitely not classify this as a romance. Personally, I typically read thrillers and mysteries. I was concerned that this would be slow paced and a chore to read. I couldn't have been more wrong! I read this front to back in one sitting. It's been days since I read it and I can't stop thinking about this book.
I've seen terms such as "women's literature", "supernatural", "love story", and "romance" used to describe this book, but I don't feel that this book neatly fits into any of these genres. In fact I haven't found myself able to place this book in any particular genre. It encompasses so many subjects and themes. I could label it as "Contemporary Fiction", but that's a very general category and doesn't begin to do this book justice.
Thank you for providing this book for review consideration via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.
March 26, 2024
Fans of romantic thrillers will love this book
What a phenomenal book! This is an absolute page-turner. The story is so suspenseful, beautiful, and relatable, it hooks you in and you just want to keep going until the end. I couldn’t put it down, in fact I read it all in one sitting!
It’s a thriller and a love story, a tale of “what might have been” and “what might still be”. The characters are interesting and well-developed, taking me on an emotional rollercoaster ride from beginning to end. As the fledgling connection develops between two main characters during a flashback sequence, the writing is so poignant I couldn’t help crying.
The story is set in a rural part of Australia and everything has such an authentic feel: the writing of the locations, the characters and the dialogue are so real and believable.
This is great storytelling at its finest; 5-stars does not even do it justice!
A must read.
What a phenomenal book! This is an absolute page-turner. The story is so suspenseful, beautiful, and relatable, it hooks you in and you just want to keep going until the end. I couldn’t put it down, in fact I read it all in one sitting!
It’s a thriller and a love story, a tale of “what might have been” and “what might still be”. The characters are interesting and well-developed, taking me on an emotional rollercoaster ride from beginning to end. As the fledgling connection develops between two main characters during a flashback sequence, the writing is so poignant I couldn’t help crying.
The story is set in a rural part of Australia and everything has such an authentic feel: the writing of the locations, the characters and the dialogue are so real and believable.
This is great storytelling at its finest; 5-stars does not even do it justice!
A must read.
March 26, 2024
This amazing book had me captivated from the very first page. It's one of those rare gems that refuses to let go until the very end. I found myself disappointed when it had to end, but what an amazing ending it was!
At its core, this book is a thrilling blend of suspense and romance. The characters are well-crafted, drawing me deeper into their world and evoking a range of emotions.
The author's deep understanding and appreciation for the world they've created shine through the narrative. This book deserves every accolade and then some. If you're searching for a read that will sweep you off your feet and leave you utterly spellbound, look no further. It's an absolute must-read that will linger in your thoughts long after the final page.
I eagerly anticipate exploring more of this author's works!
At its core, this book is a thrilling blend of suspense and romance. The characters are well-crafted, drawing me deeper into their world and evoking a range of emotions.
The author's deep understanding and appreciation for the world they've created shine through the narrative. This book deserves every accolade and then some. If you're searching for a read that will sweep you off your feet and leave you utterly spellbound, look no further. It's an absolute must-read that will linger in your thoughts long after the final page.
I eagerly anticipate exploring more of this author's works!
August 20, 2024
Romance, with a touch of paranormal, brings this tale of Lucas and Kelsey to us. We meet them as children and again as adults, and I really enjoyed the dual perspective narrative.
Despite guessing what was going to happen way before it did, when it did, I was heartbroken.
Trigger warnings for animal cruelty, death, and fire.
I was completely hooked from the start, I didn't want to put the book down - darn work and sleep getting in the way!
I really loved the premise, the characters, the dialogue, the townsfolk - not you, Bryce!
I enjoy an epilogue that gives us a future glimpse, I feel like that really rounds off a story, so that was nice to see in this.
It is a really lovely story that deals with some really traumatic substances in a very caring and natural way. I'd definitely read more by this author.
Despite guessing what was going to happen way before it did, when it did, I was heartbroken.
Trigger warnings for animal cruelty, death, and fire.
I was completely hooked from the start, I didn't want to put the book down - darn work and sleep getting in the way!
I really loved the premise, the characters, the dialogue, the townsfolk - not you, Bryce!
I enjoy an epilogue that gives us a future glimpse, I feel like that really rounds off a story, so that was nice to see in this.
It is a really lovely story that deals with some really traumatic substances in a very caring and natural way. I'd definitely read more by this author.
August 29, 2024
Review :
I loved this story. I love how this story was written. I loved each character. I can understand how Lucas’s mother feels the need to have him isolated, but I feel like it hurt him in ways. Can you imagine being able to heal someone the way Lucas can? There were some sad, overwhelming moments within the read but it’s a book I find myself thinking about. I wasn’t fond of Kelsey at first. It took me reading more of the book to enjoy her character more. I love that even though he has this ability it did not defer him from becoming a veterinarian. You almost wonder how life for Lucas would have turned out if his mother didn’t have them move and become isolated. I’d recommend this book though because it was a beautiful story.
I loved this story. I love how this story was written. I loved each character. I can understand how Lucas’s mother feels the need to have him isolated, but I feel like it hurt him in ways. Can you imagine being able to heal someone the way Lucas can? There were some sad, overwhelming moments within the read but it’s a book I find myself thinking about. I wasn’t fond of Kelsey at first. It took me reading more of the book to enjoy her character more. I love that even though he has this ability it did not defer him from becoming a veterinarian. You almost wonder how life for Lucas would have turned out if his mother didn’t have them move and become isolated. I’d recommend this book though because it was a beautiful story.
December 29, 2025
Beautiful love story!
4.5⭐️
Someone's nightmare is someone else's dream. Everything happens for a reason and this book explains that beautifully.
I deeply enjoyed this book! I read and listened to the audio. The narrators did a fantastic job they were perfect for the characters. The duet narration was a big plus for me.
Lucas has a special gift and for this reason, his mom keeps him sheltered. Until a new neighbor Moves in.. we follow Kelsey and Luke when they were children and becoming friends to when they are adults.
I dont love the miscommunication trope . But the ending made up for it. Even though I seen it coming it was still heartbreaking , then happy again .
** Thank you Netgalley, the author and publisher for this ARC audio **
4.5⭐️
Someone's nightmare is someone else's dream. Everything happens for a reason and this book explains that beautifully.
I deeply enjoyed this book! I read and listened to the audio. The narrators did a fantastic job they were perfect for the characters. The duet narration was a big plus for me.
Lucas has a special gift and for this reason, his mom keeps him sheltered. Until a new neighbor Moves in.. we follow Kelsey and Luke when they were children and becoming friends to when they are adults.
I dont love the miscommunication trope . But the ending made up for it. Even though I seen it coming it was still heartbreaking , then happy again .
** Thank you Netgalley, the author and publisher for this ARC audio **
August 30, 2024
This book it was very relatable. It has multiple POVs. There’s a flashback between Kelsey and Lucas, which I love that she wrote it in a big chunk, instead of going back and forth.
Lucas has this special ability that he can heal people, but if he heals them. He believes it’s a curse more than a gift. Kelsey, is his only childhood friend, and have been in loved with her since then.
It’s amazing how fate can bring two people together, no matter the year, or where when you’re meant to be with that person, it’ll be. This has an emotional of rollercoaster, throughout the book. And that ending…. Yeah im not crying you are! 😂😭😭😭😭 it’s a beautiful book.
Lucas has this special ability that he can heal people, but if he heals them. He believes it’s a curse more than a gift. Kelsey, is his only childhood friend, and have been in loved with her since then.
It’s amazing how fate can bring two people together, no matter the year, or where when you’re meant to be with that person, it’ll be. This has an emotional of rollercoaster, throughout the book. And that ending…. Yeah im not crying you are! 😂😭😭😭😭 it’s a beautiful book.
April 11, 2024
This book was so loving and spoke to me in ways I never expected. The book isn't what I expected. Once I start reading it, I did not want to put it down. Three days later and a lot of tears, I am overwhelmed and so Happy I decided to read it. I love receiving advanced copies of books and giving my opinion voluntarily. I can be harsh when it comes down to it. Believe me when I say it does have language but I absolutely recommend it. I loved this story.
August 28, 2024
This was really good read. It was beautifully written and so good I really loved the cover of this book. I think it's why I was drawn to sign up because of the cover. I love really enjoyed that this had paranormal in it but also romance. I really enjoyed the twists and turns and I couldn't put it down I had to know what going to happen. Bryce was my least favorite character. I really didn't care for him. I couldn't get enough of this read.
March 17, 2025
O.M.G.!! What A Story!
Wow! I am so full of emotions after reading this story. A beautiful young man with the gift of healing, only wanting to do good, even if he might suffer. Kelsey and Luke’s story is amazing, he selflessly gave up everything for her because of his love, this story is wonderful and my heart is broken, after all they went through they deserved a happy ending with their daughter!
Wow! I am so full of emotions after reading this story. A beautiful young man with the gift of healing, only wanting to do good, even if he might suffer. Kelsey and Luke’s story is amazing, he selflessly gave up everything for her because of his love, this story is wonderful and my heart is broken, after all they went through they deserved a happy ending with their daughter!
April 14, 2025
Absolutely Amazing!
Although the type of “power” Luke has is not a realistic one, the story of love, acceptance of one’s self, and acceptance of others differences is a timeless and never ending story theme that is needed to be heard now more than ever.
This is a wonderful story, one that I won’t soon forget.
Well done!
Although the type of “power” Luke has is not a realistic one, the story of love, acceptance of one’s self, and acceptance of others differences is a timeless and never ending story theme that is needed to be heard now more than ever.
This is a wonderful story, one that I won’t soon forget.
Well done!
August 19, 2025
I was sent a copy of this audiobook for review.
Lucas is born with the ability to heal with his hands. His father and grandfather had the same power, but their lives were short due to sacrificing themselves to save others. Lucas’ mother is determined to shield him from this outcome by keeping him isolated and away from people. Lucas unfortunately grows up lonely and craving friendship. When new neighbours include a girl called Kelsey, he defies his mother’s overprotective rules and attempts to connect with her. At first, Kelsey thinks he is strange and keeps her distance but when she discovers his secret the pair start a deep and loving friendship.
When tragedy strikes and Lucas almost dies saving Kelsey’s life, Lucas’ mother moves them away and changes their identifies. Kelsey is left alive but with burn scars on her face. Believing Lucas just abandoned her, Kelsey begins a secluded life of her own, completely different to what she had planned and thinks she will never see him again.
But fate has other plans and when the unlikely event of them both ending up in the same remote town occurs, Lucas tries to keep his new identify from Kelsey as the pair begin a new friendship. But will the truth come out and ruin Lucas’ one chance at happiness and will Kelsey’s feelings of betrayal make her run from the one man who will love her more than even himself.
An emotional rollercoaster from start to finish. The childhood portion of the story narrated in flashbacks was both beautiful and heartbreaking. The present-day story involved additional plot threads besides the “will they, won’t they” romance that added tension, action and pushed the story forward. I was not ready for the ending and had to listen to certain parts twice to believe it actually happened. Overall, the story was well written, the characters were thought out and felt authentic and the fantasy element of the healing was creatively woven into the story and explained in a way that I could believe it, which brought the whole story together in an intriguing way. A great story but grab your tissues!
Lucas is born with the ability to heal with his hands. His father and grandfather had the same power, but their lives were short due to sacrificing themselves to save others. Lucas’ mother is determined to shield him from this outcome by keeping him isolated and away from people. Lucas unfortunately grows up lonely and craving friendship. When new neighbours include a girl called Kelsey, he defies his mother’s overprotective rules and attempts to connect with her. At first, Kelsey thinks he is strange and keeps her distance but when she discovers his secret the pair start a deep and loving friendship.
When tragedy strikes and Lucas almost dies saving Kelsey’s life, Lucas’ mother moves them away and changes their identifies. Kelsey is left alive but with burn scars on her face. Believing Lucas just abandoned her, Kelsey begins a secluded life of her own, completely different to what she had planned and thinks she will never see him again.
But fate has other plans and when the unlikely event of them both ending up in the same remote town occurs, Lucas tries to keep his new identify from Kelsey as the pair begin a new friendship. But will the truth come out and ruin Lucas’ one chance at happiness and will Kelsey’s feelings of betrayal make her run from the one man who will love her more than even himself.
An emotional rollercoaster from start to finish. The childhood portion of the story narrated in flashbacks was both beautiful and heartbreaking. The present-day story involved additional plot threads besides the “will they, won’t they” romance that added tension, action and pushed the story forward. I was not ready for the ending and had to listen to certain parts twice to believe it actually happened. Overall, the story was well written, the characters were thought out and felt authentic and the fantasy element of the healing was creatively woven into the story and explained in a way that I could believe it, which brought the whole story together in an intriguing way. A great story but grab your tissues!
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