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Love #4
Let Love Be
What would bring you happiness in a world that was suddenly empty?
For Lucy Crane, the answer is simple: her daughter. When her husband is killed in a tragic accident, Lucy loses her desire to live, but only one thing keeps her going – her unborn daughter. Focusing on being a mother helps Lucy cope with her loss, but kids grow up and they leave home, eventually. Eighteen years after losing her first and only love, Lucy is faced with the opportunity to find the happiness for which she’s always longed. Her own fears become her worst enemies as she learns how to embrace love once again.
Evan Donovan is also facing his own struggles. Forced to retire from the FDNY because of lung damage caused by 9/11, Evan moves to upstate New York where he hopes to find a little peace and quiet. Old habits die hard, and Evan’s hero complex and survivor’s guilt constantly remind him of how difficult it is to be vulnerable. But for the first time in his life, he’s tired of being alone.
Drawing strength from one another, Lucy and Evan discover how beautiful it is to let love be a part of their lives.
***Though this is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. Unlike the previous books in the series, this is NOT a New Adult & College Romance; this is a contemporary romance featuring characters who are more mature / not in their twenties). It is a full length novel of about 90K words / approx. 350 pages.***
For Lucy Crane, the answer is simple: her daughter. When her husband is killed in a tragic accident, Lucy loses her desire to live, but only one thing keeps her going – her unborn daughter. Focusing on being a mother helps Lucy cope with her loss, but kids grow up and they leave home, eventually. Eighteen years after losing her first and only love, Lucy is faced with the opportunity to find the happiness for which she’s always longed. Her own fears become her worst enemies as she learns how to embrace love once again.
Evan Donovan is also facing his own struggles. Forced to retire from the FDNY because of lung damage caused by 9/11, Evan moves to upstate New York where he hopes to find a little peace and quiet. Old habits die hard, and Evan’s hero complex and survivor’s guilt constantly remind him of how difficult it is to be vulnerable. But for the first time in his life, he’s tired of being alone.
Drawing strength from one another, Lucy and Evan discover how beautiful it is to let love be a part of their lives.
***Though this is part of a series, it can be read as a standalone. Unlike the previous books in the series, this is NOT a New Adult & College Romance; this is a contemporary romance featuring characters who are more mature / not in their twenties). It is a full length novel of about 90K words / approx. 350 pages.***
359 pages, Kindle Edition
First published March 13, 2014
99 people are currently reading
1648 people want to read
About the author
Melissa Collins
29 books1,301 followersMelissa Collins has always been a book worm. Studying Literature in college ensured that her nose was always stuck in a book. She followed her passion for reading to the most logical career choice: English teacher. Her hope was to share her passion for reading and the escapism of books to her students. Having spent more than a decade in front of a classroom, she can easily say that it’s been a dream.
Her passion for writing didn’t start until more recently. When she was home on maternity leave in early 2012, she read her first romance novel and her head filled with the passion, angst and laughter of the characters who she read about it. It wasn’t long before characters of her own took shape in her mind. Their lives took over Melissa’s brain and The Love Series was born.
Her passion for writing didn’t start until more recently. When she was home on maternity leave in early 2012, she read her first romance novel and her head filled with the passion, angst and laughter of the characters who she read about it. It wasn’t long before characters of her own took shape in her mind. Their lives took over Melissa’s brain and The Love Series was born.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 134 reviews
September 12, 2014
★★★★★
5 Sweetness Stars!
Complimentary copy received for an honest review
Review also posted on Mara's Bookshelf
"Let's just be together and enjoy being happy for the first time in a long time."
Melissa Collins gave me a break from the teeny-bopper, angsty, cheesy (hey, I'm not complaining. I love those kinds too) books that I've been eating up like candies with this 4th story in her The Love Series. Let Love Be deals with more mature characters and a story that is so heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time it is not impossible to emphasize with Lucy and Evan. This may be fiction but what these characters have been through happens in real life too.
"How is it possible to say hello to the one person you'll love the most in your life, when you still haven't been able to say goodbye to the other half of your soul?"
Lucy Crane had a life-shattering experience. It was a tragedy, an extremely heartbreaking tragedy for a young and pregnant woman to go through. Being told that your husband died on the job while pregnant and soon-to-give-birth to your daughter isn't something I can easily imagine. If it was me, maybe I would die on the spot. But Lucy, she was a forceful character. She was tough and even though her life just crashed down on her, she was still clearheaded on what her responsibility now entails. She was alone and a new parent. And she took on that role with so much commitment. Lucy did not allow her grief to overshadow the love that she gave to her daughter. I was inspired with her strength and her determination to provide all the love her daughter, Melanie, needs and more, just so Melanie wouldn't feel like there's something missing in her life while growing up. Lucy passed on having a love life or any other romantic relationship after her husband, Jimmy, died, she gave all her attention to Melanie. And for me, that is selfless if not also a bit sad that she's somehow alone. Until she met Evan.
"In all the years I was alone, I didn't realize this was what I was missing -- a complete and utter feeling of contentment, of belonging, of love."
Evan Donovan, a New York firefighter, loyal friend, protective man. He loves his job and does his best to have no to less casualties when responding to an emergency. His loyal and fierce protectiveness of the people he cares about are also why he takes accidents that are out of his control so deeply. He felt like two of his friends have suffered because of him, one lost a leg and the other one died while working his shift. He felt responsible. I may not have felt as heartbroken as I was with Lucy but I sympathize with Evan. The guilt he carries added to his anguish for his early retirement due to lung cancer, are more than enough for one man to endure. But when he met Lucy, it was like a ray of sunshine seeped through his dark and lonely life. They compliment each other, each with their own sorrows but also with their own strengths.
"And that's the reality of it -- I want Lucy. I want to share my life with her. I want her more than I've wanted anything."
Being as this is not a love story of 20's-30's, Lucy and Evan are mature characters in their 40's and 50's and they act like it too! Whew! I would have thrown a fit if they were that age and they act like teenagers. Just saying. Anyway, because they are older and have experienced most of life's trials, they are more transparent in their feelings. They gave in easily to the attraction without it seeming rushed or anything. The swoon moments are still there, Evan and Lucy made me smile and their love was an inspiring journey to see. They were proof that a beautiful, genuine love comes regardless of age and that even though life takes away one true love, it will also give you one great love in return.
Kudos, Melissa Collins!
Stars: 5 stars!
Recommended to: Romance with mature characters, and I don't just mean mature emotionally. ;)
POV: First person. Dual POV.
Series: Yes but can be read as standalone.
EXTRA COMMENT: This is the first book that I've read in the series and I can say that the story flowed well, I bet if I read the other books it will add more in depth details but as standalone, it was already amazing.
5 Sweetness Stars!
Complimentary copy received for an honest review
Review also posted on Mara's Bookshelf
"Let's just be together and enjoy being happy for the first time in a long time."
Melissa Collins gave me a break from the teeny-bopper, angsty, cheesy (hey, I'm not complaining. I love those kinds too) books that I've been eating up like candies with this 4th story in her The Love Series. Let Love Be deals with more mature characters and a story that is so heartbreaking and heartwarming at the same time it is not impossible to emphasize with Lucy and Evan. This may be fiction but what these characters have been through happens in real life too.
"How is it possible to say hello to the one person you'll love the most in your life, when you still haven't been able to say goodbye to the other half of your soul?"
Lucy Crane had a life-shattering experience. It was a tragedy, an extremely heartbreaking tragedy for a young and pregnant woman to go through. Being told that your husband died on the job while pregnant and soon-to-give-birth to your daughter isn't something I can easily imagine. If it was me, maybe I would die on the spot. But Lucy, she was a forceful character. She was tough and even though her life just crashed down on her, she was still clearheaded on what her responsibility now entails. She was alone and a new parent. And she took on that role with so much commitment. Lucy did not allow her grief to overshadow the love that she gave to her daughter. I was inspired with her strength and her determination to provide all the love her daughter, Melanie, needs and more, just so Melanie wouldn't feel like there's something missing in her life while growing up. Lucy passed on having a love life or any other romantic relationship after her husband, Jimmy, died, she gave all her attention to Melanie. And for me, that is selfless if not also a bit sad that she's somehow alone. Until she met Evan.
"In all the years I was alone, I didn't realize this was what I was missing -- a complete and utter feeling of contentment, of belonging, of love."
Evan Donovan, a New York firefighter, loyal friend, protective man. He loves his job and does his best to have no to less casualties when responding to an emergency. His loyal and fierce protectiveness of the people he cares about are also why he takes accidents that are out of his control so deeply. He felt like two of his friends have suffered because of him, one lost a leg and the other one died while working his shift. He felt responsible. I may not have felt as heartbroken as I was with Lucy but I sympathize with Evan. The guilt he carries added to his anguish for his early retirement due to lung cancer, are more than enough for one man to endure. But when he met Lucy, it was like a ray of sunshine seeped through his dark and lonely life. They compliment each other, each with their own sorrows but also with their own strengths.
"And that's the reality of it -- I want Lucy. I want to share my life with her. I want her more than I've wanted anything."
Being as this is not a love story of 20's-30's, Lucy and Evan are mature characters in their 40's and 50's and they act like it too! Whew! I would have thrown a fit if they were that age and they act like teenagers. Just saying. Anyway, because they are older and have experienced most of life's trials, they are more transparent in their feelings. They gave in easily to the attraction without it seeming rushed or anything. The swoon moments are still there, Evan and Lucy made me smile and their love was an inspiring journey to see. They were proof that a beautiful, genuine love comes regardless of age and that even though life takes away one true love, it will also give you one great love in return.
Kudos, Melissa Collins!
Stars: 5 stars!
Recommended to: Romance with mature characters, and I don't just mean mature emotionally. ;)
POV: First person. Dual POV.
Series: Yes but can be read as standalone.
EXTRA COMMENT: This is the first book that I've read in the series and I can say that the story flowed well, I bet if I read the other books it will add more in depth details but as standalone, it was already amazing.
March 29, 2014
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@twinsietalk
I received this review from the author for an honest review.
MAN OH MAN!! If you have NOT read this series, I ask you to PLEASE PLEASE one click it now. If you HAVE read the series, be ready. This book blew me out of the water. I knew I would be reading about "momma" finding love but was blown away to "find" Lucy finding love. Dont understand? Well then read the books silly!!
Well we know that Lucy has had the ultimate of heart breaks. Jimmy is killed and she is left a widow with a baby due at any second. She does what she has to do to "survive' but is really just exsisting. Does she love her life? Yes but she also isnt really living....until a chance encounter with Evan makes her want MORE!! I KNEW all of the sadness in Lucy's life but when I actaully read it....tears were briming on my eyes. Lucy is a powerful character and I didnt expect it but was thrilled by HER at the end of it all. I was just not expecting to be blown away by her like I was. We know that "momma" is sweet, kind hearted and willing to do everything to make her family happy. But what we didn't know is how feisty, sassy, silly, sexy and confrontational Lucy is.
Evan is such a great guy who helps out his "work family" and "real family" whenever he can. However a few twists of fate and he feels he is unworthy of love, family and a woman in his life until he meets Lucy and he wants MORE....he is scared to death but after a few slaps to the head by his brother, he goes after it with avengence. I have to say, I loved Evan in the books. The quiet reserve he has but the total love he has for "the girls" is very evident. When he includes Melanie AND Maddie in major life decisions he makes with Lucy, again I had tears in my eyes and lumps in my throat. I was again stunned at how much I fell for him. I just didnt see that reaction at allllll..........
This novel was so much more then I anticipated. I am literally left hopeful for another book in the series. I want to know if my predictions for Linda are right...will she find love WITH a certain someone??? Maybe? perhaps?
I just have to say this series is a definate favorite of mine and I look forwards to every single novel. I will have to say other then the first book, this book is my next favorite. That is a pretty huge statement for me because I have loooved every single book. I just loved the story of Lucy and Evan and wish for a long and happy life together.
www.twinsietalk.com
www.FB.com/Twinsietalk
@twinsietalk
I received this review from the author for an honest review.
MAN OH MAN!! If you have NOT read this series, I ask you to PLEASE PLEASE one click it now. If you HAVE read the series, be ready. This book blew me out of the water. I knew I would be reading about "momma" finding love but was blown away to "find" Lucy finding love. Dont understand? Well then read the books silly!!
Well we know that Lucy has had the ultimate of heart breaks. Jimmy is killed and she is left a widow with a baby due at any second. She does what she has to do to "survive' but is really just exsisting. Does she love her life? Yes but she also isnt really living....until a chance encounter with Evan makes her want MORE!! I KNEW all of the sadness in Lucy's life but when I actaully read it....tears were briming on my eyes. Lucy is a powerful character and I didnt expect it but was thrilled by HER at the end of it all. I was just not expecting to be blown away by her like I was. We know that "momma" is sweet, kind hearted and willing to do everything to make her family happy. But what we didn't know is how feisty, sassy, silly, sexy and confrontational Lucy is.
Evan is such a great guy who helps out his "work family" and "real family" whenever he can. However a few twists of fate and he feels he is unworthy of love, family and a woman in his life until he meets Lucy and he wants MORE....he is scared to death but after a few slaps to the head by his brother, he goes after it with avengence. I have to say, I loved Evan in the books. The quiet reserve he has but the total love he has for "the girls" is very evident. When he includes Melanie AND Maddie in major life decisions he makes with Lucy, again I had tears in my eyes and lumps in my throat. I was again stunned at how much I fell for him. I just didnt see that reaction at allllll..........
This novel was so much more then I anticipated. I am literally left hopeful for another book in the series. I want to know if my predictions for Linda are right...will she find love WITH a certain someone??? Maybe? perhaps?
I just have to say this series is a definate favorite of mine and I look forwards to every single novel. I will have to say other then the first book, this book is my next favorite. That is a pretty huge statement for me because I have loooved every single book. I just loved the story of Lucy and Evan and wish for a long and happy life together.
October 12, 2014
As you all know I absolutely LOVE the Love series by Melissa Collins. They are amazon stories about life and love and this one is no different. Let Love Be is the fourth full novel in the series and it is by far my FAVORITE of them all. Lucy and Evan’s story is heart warming and genuine, you will fall in love with them instantly!
We already know Lucy and Evan, however this time around we learn so much more about them. Who they are, where they have been, and what they have been through. This is THEIR story.
Lucy lost the love of her life while she was pregnant with her daughter Melanie. We have heard about the heartache from Melanie but to hear it through Lucy’s voice was so hard….she had to be so strong!
“Somehow, the clouds manage to reign in the water, just as I’m somehow managing to hold back my tears. It’s numbness really. You can’t cry when you feel nothing. Pain has evaporated and morphed into anesthetized calmness.”
I envied what a brave woman she was (and is), doing what she did alone could not have been easy. She deserved to be loved, to have someone to care for her. She is they type of person who is always there for everyone else, well now it’s her turn.
Enter Evan…the sexy, mature, retired FDNY fireman (H-O-T). We get to hear about his stories from the firehouse, what led him to where he is now. The stories will make your heart cry. He has also been through so much and is just trying to get by. When he meets Lucy he is clearly attracted to her but can he be what she deserves?
“…the part of me that shut down long ago, the part that has kept me from ever being able to commit to anyone, screams loudly for me to just walk and let Lucy live her own life, free of my problems.”
I was absolutely enamored with their relationship. They are both older (obviously) and it brought a certain level of maturity to them as a couple. It of course didn’t make them any less steamy…
“‘No…please…now. Please touch me. I want this. Please don’t stop.’ I’m not above begging and I’ve been waiting for this, this intimacy, this heated passion far too long. ‘Let go, Lucy. Let me take care of you, ‘ he coaxes gently.”
Lucy and Evan are still like any young couple….scared.
“ ‘We’re both so afraid to lose again, that we never let anyone in,’ she clarifies.” “But what if we promise to be scared together?”
The way they talk to each other (eventually that is) is incredible. To be able to pour your heart out and let someone know what they have done for you takes strength.
“Evan, you woke me up. You brought me back to life and you made my heart work again. You made me realize that it’s possible to love again.”
But is this all too good to be true….what happens when life gets in the way? Life throws you a curve ball and messes up your plans. Lucy and Evan have had their (un?)fair share of troubles….what will it take to get through this?
“Why is life so fucking unfair, huh?” She throws her arms up in the air, flippantly huffing her frustrations to the ceiling. “Who the fuck decides how much pain one person gets in their lifetime?”
Another excellent book to a wonderful series! And did you know that we can expect to read Dylan’s story in Let Love Live?? You know we will be bringing that to you as well!!
We already know Lucy and Evan, however this time around we learn so much more about them. Who they are, where they have been, and what they have been through. This is THEIR story.
Lucy lost the love of her life while she was pregnant with her daughter Melanie. We have heard about the heartache from Melanie but to hear it through Lucy’s voice was so hard….she had to be so strong!
“Somehow, the clouds manage to reign in the water, just as I’m somehow managing to hold back my tears. It’s numbness really. You can’t cry when you feel nothing. Pain has evaporated and morphed into anesthetized calmness.”
I envied what a brave woman she was (and is), doing what she did alone could not have been easy. She deserved to be loved, to have someone to care for her. She is they type of person who is always there for everyone else, well now it’s her turn.
Enter Evan…the sexy, mature, retired FDNY fireman (H-O-T). We get to hear about his stories from the firehouse, what led him to where he is now. The stories will make your heart cry. He has also been through so much and is just trying to get by. When he meets Lucy he is clearly attracted to her but can he be what she deserves?
“…the part of me that shut down long ago, the part that has kept me from ever being able to commit to anyone, screams loudly for me to just walk and let Lucy live her own life, free of my problems.”
I was absolutely enamored with their relationship. They are both older (obviously) and it brought a certain level of maturity to them as a couple. It of course didn’t make them any less steamy…
“‘No…please…now. Please touch me. I want this. Please don’t stop.’ I’m not above begging and I’ve been waiting for this, this intimacy, this heated passion far too long. ‘Let go, Lucy. Let me take care of you, ‘ he coaxes gently.”
Lucy and Evan are still like any young couple….scared.
“ ‘We’re both so afraid to lose again, that we never let anyone in,’ she clarifies.” “But what if we promise to be scared together?”
The way they talk to each other (eventually that is) is incredible. To be able to pour your heart out and let someone know what they have done for you takes strength.
“Evan, you woke me up. You brought me back to life and you made my heart work again. You made me realize that it’s possible to love again.”
But is this all too good to be true….what happens when life gets in the way? Life throws you a curve ball and messes up your plans. Lucy and Evan have had their (un?)fair share of troubles….what will it take to get through this?
“Why is life so fucking unfair, huh?” She throws her arms up in the air, flippantly huffing her frustrations to the ceiling. “Who the fuck decides how much pain one person gets in their lifetime?”
Another excellent book to a wonderful series! And did you know that we can expect to read Dylan’s story in Let Love Live?? You know we will be bringing that to you as well!!
September 15, 2014
4.5 stars!!
Let Love Be was a fantastic surprise for me – a gorgeous, sexy, heartfelt story about two people who have suffered losses and endured heartbreak in their past. I absolutely fell in love with Evan and even Lucy a little bit and devoured is book! Melissa Collins is a new author to me and has now become a favorite.
I love books about people in their forties and this is what Let Love Be is all about (Evan is even a little but older). Lucy has a college-age daughter, lives alone and Evan was a NYC firefighter who is also painfully lonely. I have not read the previous books in this series, and I absolutely jumped right in without missing a beat. With that said, I plan to read this series because I LOVE this author’s writing!
Melissa Collins did a fantastic job in making me feel an emotional connection to her characters. I literally was holding my breath at certain parts of the book. The love scenes are incredibly hot and yes, breathtaking! There is no insta-love here and I love that the main characters are not only a bit older, but have regular jobs, normal loves and great friends.
I loved everything about this book. It is a good old-fashioned love story with a healthy dose of steam. Melissa Collins is incredibly talented and I highly recommend this book!
(*ARC provided by the author in return for an honest review.)
Let Love Be was a fantastic surprise for me – a gorgeous, sexy, heartfelt story about two people who have suffered losses and endured heartbreak in their past. I absolutely fell in love with Evan and even Lucy a little bit and devoured is book! Melissa Collins is a new author to me and has now become a favorite.
I love books about people in their forties and this is what Let Love Be is all about (Evan is even a little but older). Lucy has a college-age daughter, lives alone and Evan was a NYC firefighter who is also painfully lonely. I have not read the previous books in this series, and I absolutely jumped right in without missing a beat. With that said, I plan to read this series because I LOVE this author’s writing!
Melissa Collins did a fantastic job in making me feel an emotional connection to her characters. I literally was holding my breath at certain parts of the book. The love scenes are incredibly hot and yes, breathtaking! There is no insta-love here and I love that the main characters are not only a bit older, but have regular jobs, normal loves and great friends.
I loved everything about this book. It is a good old-fashioned love story with a healthy dose of steam. Melissa Collins is incredibly talented and I highly recommend this book!
(*ARC provided by the author in return for an honest review.)
September 3, 2016
I was privileged to beta read this book prior to publication in exchange for a fair and honest review.
Let Love Be is a beautiful story about true love, losing love, enduring, and finding love again. After the death of her husband, a pregnant young woman, Lucy, must find the strength to go on for her soon to be born daughter. The story documents the struggles and joys this mother endures as her daughter grows up. Her journey supported and strengthened by her best friend, Linda, and her dead husband’s best friend, Ray. Then when Lucy meets Evan, a FDNY firefighter, who has been fighting his personal demons for many years, both of their lives are changed.
I loved this wonderful, beautiful story. I cried tears of sadness, tears of joy. I smiled a lot as I read this story of love, sorrow, and healing. Have you ever wondered about soul mates? Do they exist, are you limited to only one? If you want to read a HEA that pulls at your emotions from beginning to end, then you will love this book as much as I do. I highly recommend this book. It does contain sexual scenes; although very well written, they are very detailed. I gave this book 5 stars.
Let Love Be is a beautiful story about true love, losing love, enduring, and finding love again. After the death of her husband, a pregnant young woman, Lucy, must find the strength to go on for her soon to be born daughter. The story documents the struggles and joys this mother endures as her daughter grows up. Her journey supported and strengthened by her best friend, Linda, and her dead husband’s best friend, Ray. Then when Lucy meets Evan, a FDNY firefighter, who has been fighting his personal demons for many years, both of their lives are changed.
I loved this wonderful, beautiful story. I cried tears of sadness, tears of joy. I smiled a lot as I read this story of love, sorrow, and healing. Have you ever wondered about soul mates? Do they exist, are you limited to only one? If you want to read a HEA that pulls at your emotions from beginning to end, then you will love this book as much as I do. I highly recommend this book. It does contain sexual scenes; although very well written, they are very detailed. I gave this book 5 stars.
December 20, 2014
I cannot say enough of how great a story this was.This is the first book I've read by Melissa Collins. What a great, mature love story. You meet heroine, Lucy, as she is preparing for the birth of her daughter with her high school sweetheart, Jimmy. It is 1995 and she is beyond happy and hopeful. In that same year, we meet Evan, who at 34 years of age, is happily living the bachelor life as a New York firefighter. Both Evan and Lucy go through tremendous heartbreak and loss that shape the people they become. Eighteen years later, the two meet and feel an instant connection. Can they let go of the pain and guilt of their past to find happiness with each other and just let love be?
This was a great story from start to finish with a mature love story. I highly recommend to anyone looking for a great read.
This was a great story from start to finish with a mature love story. I highly recommend to anyone looking for a great read.
March 17, 2014
This book was fantastic!!! It is so refreshing to read a love story that deals with other more mature people sometimes. You don't deal with the same melodramatic issues that are more apparent in young life, but issues that you deal with more so when you get older. All I can say is Evan. Holy smokes. That guy is freaking awesome!!! I loved both main characters. Absolutely loved!
September 3, 2016
Poignant and gripping, Melissa Collins is a master of emotional romance. Fyi, stock up on tissues before reading Let Love Be. 5 glorious stars. <3
April 14, 2014
Review Originally Posted at: Book Freak
I have been looking forward for this installment since reading a sneak peek of the first chapter. I just knew it would be just as good as the rest or even better.
Lucy had been a mother not just to Melanie, but to Maddy as well. She had spent a lot of her time nurturing these two amazing girls, and it was just right for her to get her own HEA as well. It was never too late. Thankfully, Evan came in her life. He wasn’t as perfect as Jimmy, he was rough around the edges, but for the first time in eighteen years, her heart and stomach did somersaults. For the first time, and clearly unexpected, I see the different side of Lucy – the sexy, and flirtatious kind and it was so fun to watch.
Life was tough getting through without her husband. She didn’t have plans of becoming a single parent, but she did it with flying colors. She had submerged herself into becoming the best mother in the world, and even overcompensate the absence of her husband. Her happiness relies on Melanie, until her daughter went off to college and empty nest syndrome sets in.
I was glad that Linda was around for her. She was very supportive, to a point that she signed her up to an online dating just to give her a head start into the world of dating again. She was around when Jimmy died, and never left her side, and still there until Melanie went to college. I think she lightened her burden when it was too much for her.
I didn’t think a man with salt-and-pepper-type of hair can be hot. Evan proved to be way beyond his age not just for still being sweet, or having some stupid decisions sometimes, he still have that, ahem, stamina that can keep you awake at night. OKAY, how did they meet? It was on a funeral – Becca’s (Reid’s mother). Evan was Joe’s brother, who was married to Becca. Even then, they hit it off, but Evan didn’t think they would meet again. He was working for the FDNY until he was forced into retirement because of health reasons.
Fate worked its magic, and their paths once again crossed. He decided to settle into the same town as Joe’s, and bumped into Lucy once again. One thing led into another, but Evan had always thought he is unworthy of love – until Lucy came into his life. Good thing his brother was there to smack some senses into him. I loved him because he didn’t push, he had some unwise decisions but he just knows how to make up for it. He treats her, and even the girls – Melanie and Maddy – like queens. This guy was something else, as for momma – her allowing her own happiness to be set aside for her girls was so worth it. Evan is quite a catch. You will fall in love with him just as you fell in love with the two younger boys in the previous series.
This book is all about second chances in love. It’s about healing and moving forward. That love, can indeed come in a time you have least expected it and can be as strong and as passionate as ever. This book exceeded my expectations, and if there is another book in the series, like perhaps Joe’s or Linda’s, I would be eagerly anticipating for it as well…
As I said in my previous reviews, Melissa Collins just keeps on getting better and better as the series grows, and this is the type of series you wouldn’t want to miss.
✪Complimentary Copy was given in exchange for an honest review.✪
April 6, 2014
ARC RECEIVED FOR AN HONEST REVIEW
Do you believe you can have two big loves in your lifetime?
Let Love Be is a book about love and loss, regret, second chances
We first met Lucy "Momma" Crane in the first book in the series, Let Love In. She lost the love of her life very early in her marriage, and has spent the years being the best mum she can to her daughter Melanie.
Now her daughter Melly and her best friend/surrogate daughter Maddy have moved away and are making their own lives, it is time for Lucy to live for herself.
It is refreshing to read a book about a mature couple. Don't get me wrong, I love the other books in this series, but as someone old enough to be their mother, it is nice for a change to read about characters closer to my age. None of the angsty teen problems!!
Evan Donovan never felt like he deserved a family. New York firefighter to the core, he has dealt with so much heartache over the years, and is still dealing with PTSD from the 9/11 attacks. His fellow firefighters are his family, and for so long is all he felt he needed.
Both Lucy and Evan feel that what they have is enough. But when they meet, they both start to question what they have felt for so many years.
I completely adore Lucy and Evan. They are so different, but so alike, and so perfect for each other. At times I wanted to smack their heads together to make them get themselves sorted out. And I wanted to give them both big bear hugs. There were things that cut right to the heart of the matter that made me want to laugh, want to cry.
We also got more of Maddy and Reid as they prepare to become parents, Melly Belly has her dramas. I also love love love Linda, Lucy's best friend from forever ago. Love her trying to set Lucy up on blind dates. as well as dipping her toe in the dating pool as well.
Ms Collins has created a series that has drawn me in from the first book right up to where we are now. I have become invested in the lives of this extended family group. I have enjoyed watching the characters grow and develop as the series has progressed, and love that we have been given the stories of not just the younger characters but also Lucy and Evan.
Now, I would love to know more about Joe (Reid's step-dad).
I can't wait to see what Ms Collins gives us next!
Do you believe you can have two big loves in your lifetime?
Let Love Be is a book about love and loss, regret, second chances
We first met Lucy "Momma" Crane in the first book in the series, Let Love In. She lost the love of her life very early in her marriage, and has spent the years being the best mum she can to her daughter Melanie.
Now her daughter Melly and her best friend/surrogate daughter Maddy have moved away and are making their own lives, it is time for Lucy to live for herself.
It is refreshing to read a book about a mature couple. Don't get me wrong, I love the other books in this series, but as someone old enough to be their mother, it is nice for a change to read about characters closer to my age. None of the angsty teen problems!!
Evan Donovan never felt like he deserved a family. New York firefighter to the core, he has dealt with so much heartache over the years, and is still dealing with PTSD from the 9/11 attacks. His fellow firefighters are his family, and for so long is all he felt he needed.
Both Lucy and Evan feel that what they have is enough. But when they meet, they both start to question what they have felt for so many years.
I completely adore Lucy and Evan. They are so different, but so alike, and so perfect for each other. At times I wanted to smack their heads together to make them get themselves sorted out. And I wanted to give them both big bear hugs. There were things that cut right to the heart of the matter that made me want to laugh, want to cry.
We also got more of Maddy and Reid as they prepare to become parents, Melly Belly has her dramas. I also love love love Linda, Lucy's best friend from forever ago. Love her trying to set Lucy up on blind dates. as well as dipping her toe in the dating pool as well.
Ms Collins has created a series that has drawn me in from the first book right up to where we are now. I have become invested in the lives of this extended family group. I have enjoyed watching the characters grow and develop as the series has progressed, and love that we have been given the stories of not just the younger characters but also Lucy and Evan.
Now, I would love to know more about Joe (Reid's step-dad).
I can't wait to see what Ms Collins gives us next!
April 8, 2014
Let Love Be is the 4th installment in the Love Series but can be read as a standalone. This is the story of Lucy a/k/a Momma and Evan and may be one of the best in the series. This story was about letting go and embracing life again. Lucy and Evan are both damaged. Damaged by past events that have left scars so deep that only someone equally as damaged can repair.
Suffering the loss of her husband shortly before the arrival of her new baby Lucy doesn’t really have time to grieve. She is thrown from the role of wife to single mom in the blink of an eye. Her focus solely on Melanie. But before you know it, 18 years have passed and her reason for getting out of bed everyday has vanished.
Evan is a NYC Firefighter and his sole focus is on protecting his “family”. Relationships have not faired well against his devotion to the firehouse. But when a routine call goes bad and people are injured Evan carries the blame. Evan also carries the after effects of 9/11 with him in more than one way.
Who knew that death could bring life to two people, but that is exactly what happens when Evan and Lucy meet at a funeral for Evan’s brother’s wife. Their worlds changed that day and we begin the journey of Evan and Lucy.
"Evan, you woke me up. You brought me back to life and you made my heart work again. You made me realize that it's possible to love again."
~ Lucy
I loved that this story was about an older couple. Being older allowed them to take past experience and mistakes and forge their relationship. The connection was definitely strong and their love endearing. The story told by Melissa was real. You could feel the sense of guilt that Lucy experienced in allowing Evan into her heart and pushing her devotion to Jimmy aside. But the understanding that came from Evan was heartwarming. He never asked Lucy to pretend she didn’t still miss Jimmy. He embraced it just as he embraced Melanie and her friends.
Although their road to happiness may not have been smooth, it is such a journey worth taking. Loss was something they both had previously experienced and they were determined not to waste time and enjoy life and love one another. Go grab your copy and Let Love Be.
Suffering the loss of her husband shortly before the arrival of her new baby Lucy doesn’t really have time to grieve. She is thrown from the role of wife to single mom in the blink of an eye. Her focus solely on Melanie. But before you know it, 18 years have passed and her reason for getting out of bed everyday has vanished.
Evan is a NYC Firefighter and his sole focus is on protecting his “family”. Relationships have not faired well against his devotion to the firehouse. But when a routine call goes bad and people are injured Evan carries the blame. Evan also carries the after effects of 9/11 with him in more than one way.
Who knew that death could bring life to two people, but that is exactly what happens when Evan and Lucy meet at a funeral for Evan’s brother’s wife. Their worlds changed that day and we begin the journey of Evan and Lucy.
"Evan, you woke me up. You brought me back to life and you made my heart work again. You made me realize that it's possible to love again."
~ Lucy
I loved that this story was about an older couple. Being older allowed them to take past experience and mistakes and forge their relationship. The connection was definitely strong and their love endearing. The story told by Melissa was real. You could feel the sense of guilt that Lucy experienced in allowing Evan into her heart and pushing her devotion to Jimmy aside. But the understanding that came from Evan was heartwarming. He never asked Lucy to pretend she didn’t still miss Jimmy. He embraced it just as he embraced Melanie and her friends.
Although their road to happiness may not have been smooth, it is such a journey worth taking. Loss was something they both had previously experienced and they were determined not to waste time and enjoy life and love one another. Go grab your copy and Let Love Be.
March 12, 2014
I love Melissa Collins. I have not read a book yet that has been bad from her. Let Love Be is a little different from her other books in that it is not New Age. It is more Contemporary because it deals with 40 and 50 year old characters, but I was OK with that- MORE then Ok with that. I have to say that I think that I love Evan and Lucy just as much- if not more then Maddie and Reid and Melanie and Bryan. Even if you have not read the other books in the series, you will be able to follow the pure beauty of this book.
Lucy has not had the best of times. While pregnant with Melanie she loses the love of her life Jimmy. She has her trusty sidekick Linda on her side, but she is afraid to love again.
Evan has been through it all. As a NYFD firefighter he has gone through his own form of loss. He has watched on of his fellow firefighters lose a leg in an accident, and after 9/11 he dug through the wreckage to find the man that was covering for him on that day that lost his life. Add on top of that getting lung cancer from the aftermath of the wreckage, he has not had time to love and after everything, thinks that he don't deserve the right to be loved.
At his brother's wives funeral (yes they meet at a funeral), they meet up and hit is off. Although, they don't get to knowing each other until after a little matchmaking from Katie, his niece, and the rest of the group.
I just adored the way that these 2 got to know each other. They took it slow, but at the same time, you can see just how fast they form a bond together. Whether it is just coming to Lucy's rescue after a home invasion, or Lucy telling Evan how wonderful he is, it is just heartwarming to watch the 2 of them work. You can see how much Lucy holds on to her love of Jimmy, but at the same times sees how much she needs Evan in her life. It is not a Wam Bam Thank you Mam kind of relationship that you see in some books, but a gradual slope of emotions that bring out the best of the characters and the reader. I NEVER cry in a book. I beta and do 1-2 reviews a week for books. Melissa Collins brought out my softer side and had me crying over the pure beauty of this relationship.
Lucy has not had the best of times. While pregnant with Melanie she loses the love of her life Jimmy. She has her trusty sidekick Linda on her side, but she is afraid to love again.
Evan has been through it all. As a NYFD firefighter he has gone through his own form of loss. He has watched on of his fellow firefighters lose a leg in an accident, and after 9/11 he dug through the wreckage to find the man that was covering for him on that day that lost his life. Add on top of that getting lung cancer from the aftermath of the wreckage, he has not had time to love and after everything, thinks that he don't deserve the right to be loved.
At his brother's wives funeral (yes they meet at a funeral), they meet up and hit is off. Although, they don't get to knowing each other until after a little matchmaking from Katie, his niece, and the rest of the group.
I just adored the way that these 2 got to know each other. They took it slow, but at the same time, you can see just how fast they form a bond together. Whether it is just coming to Lucy's rescue after a home invasion, or Lucy telling Evan how wonderful he is, it is just heartwarming to watch the 2 of them work. You can see how much Lucy holds on to her love of Jimmy, but at the same times sees how much she needs Evan in her life. It is not a Wam Bam Thank you Mam kind of relationship that you see in some books, but a gradual slope of emotions that bring out the best of the characters and the reader. I NEVER cry in a book. I beta and do 1-2 reviews a week for books. Melissa Collins brought out my softer side and had me crying over the pure beauty of this relationship.
August 14, 2016
I just finished Let Love Be and I really loved it. Melissa just has a way to make a sweet love story that just pulls you into so many directions but damn, it is worth it. This could be read as a stand alone but why in the world would you want to do that? If you have been following the series this is the 4th one. 1st is Let Love In with Maddy and Reid, continuing with Let Love Stay. 3rd is Let Love Heal which is Melanie and Bryan (Friends with Maddy and Reid). This is Lucy and Evan. Lucy is Melanie's Mom and Evan is brothers with Joe and Joe was married to Becca and Becca had just re-united with Reid but now has past away. I know, I know. It sounds confusing but it really isn’t. Lucy had lost the love of her life before Melanie was born so to say that she is gun-shy is a fair assessment. Evan has had many loses being a fire fighter so he is hesitant too but how can you pass up a 2nd chance at love? You cant, you have to let love be.....
I just really loved this story. I love how Lucy got her story! I was super excited to read this and it did not disappoint. I thought the story flowed really well and love how it could be read as a standalone but it just makes it so much better when you read all of them. It will all make more sense and you will get a feel for all the characters.
Evan. Hunky Evan. I just loved him. He was sexy, smart, loyal, and plus a firefighter! I cannot get him out of my mind! Lucy, I just love her. I felt so sorry for her but she is a strong courageous woman and knew she would get through this. (Grant it I have read the series but it was good to read what happens after she lost Jimmy) The chemistry between them is hot and even though it was 40-50 in ages, man it still burned up the pages.
This story had me happy one minute said the next and literally crying the next. It is just a overall good book and a good addition to the series. I cannot wait to see what Melissa has planned!
You have to get this one, you will love it!
Story 5
Sex 4
Overall 5
Reviewed by Beggin from Mommys a Book Whore
I just really loved this story. I love how Lucy got her story! I was super excited to read this and it did not disappoint. I thought the story flowed really well and love how it could be read as a standalone but it just makes it so much better when you read all of them. It will all make more sense and you will get a feel for all the characters.
Evan. Hunky Evan. I just loved him. He was sexy, smart, loyal, and plus a firefighter! I cannot get him out of my mind! Lucy, I just love her. I felt so sorry for her but she is a strong courageous woman and knew she would get through this. (Grant it I have read the series but it was good to read what happens after she lost Jimmy) The chemistry between them is hot and even though it was 40-50 in ages, man it still burned up the pages.
This story had me happy one minute said the next and literally crying the next. It is just a overall good book and a good addition to the series. I cannot wait to see what Melissa has planned!
You have to get this one, you will love it!
Story 5
Sex 4
Overall 5
Reviewed by Beggin from Mommys a Book Whore
March 18, 2014
This book can be read as a standalone, but the whole series is great so why not read them all!
We meet Lucy as the "momma" in Let love in and she appears in all the rest of the series as well but this was not "Momma's" book. This is Lucy's book, and what a great book it is. We really meet Lucy, apart from being Melanie's mom, and go on her journey as a single mom who takes care of everyone before herself. Until she realized it was finally time for her. I followed every part wanting to have this woman get the good she deserved in life, and as invested in all of theses characters as I have been I found myself feeling like I was reading a totally different new character.
And Evan! Sexy, sexy, sexy! Their relationship moved at a great pace for me not too fast and hot and heavy, but more mature and cautious. As you would expect from 2 people out of relationships for decades. You felt their connection from their first encounter and just wanted for them to be together.
I loved it, loved it, loved it!!! I've read a bunch of second chance romances and this one is now my top favorite. Great story and beautifully written. Kept me up reading and wanting to see how Lucy and Evan get the happy ending they both deserve, but that doesn't mean you won't need a whole box of tissues along the way ;)
We meet Lucy as the "momma" in Let love in and she appears in all the rest of the series as well but this was not "Momma's" book. This is Lucy's book, and what a great book it is. We really meet Lucy, apart from being Melanie's mom, and go on her journey as a single mom who takes care of everyone before herself. Until she realized it was finally time for her. I followed every part wanting to have this woman get the good she deserved in life, and as invested in all of theses characters as I have been I found myself feeling like I was reading a totally different new character.
And Evan! Sexy, sexy, sexy! Their relationship moved at a great pace for me not too fast and hot and heavy, but more mature and cautious. As you would expect from 2 people out of relationships for decades. You felt their connection from their first encounter and just wanted for them to be together.
I loved it, loved it, loved it!!! I've read a bunch of second chance romances and this one is now my top favorite. Great story and beautifully written. Kept me up reading and wanting to see how Lucy and Evan get the happy ending they both deserve, but that doesn't mean you won't need a whole box of tissues along the way ;)
September 12, 2014
5 SECOND CHANCE STARS!
I LOVED this book. I have read books one and two in the series and skipped book three to read this one so this book can be read as a standalone though you meet Lucy is the books prior to this one. This book was beautifully written taking us on a journey in the different yet similar lives of two people who find a way to love again after suffering from tragedy and loss.
This is Evan and Lucy's story. Evan is damaged. After suffering loss many times, he is a shell of the man he use to be. Lucy is broken. After suffering loss, she closed herself off to the chance at love. When these two collide, the sparks fly between and the tension is thick. Neither were looking for love again. Neither were expecting the chemistry they had. Can these two damaged souls find a way to heal and love again with each other? Will Evan and Lucy find their happy ending again?
I loved Evan and Lucy! They were both amazing characters who showed so much compassion and strength that it astounded me. This author has a way of writing characters that you can feel their pain, happiness, joy, and everything else that they go through. Evan was amazing, sweet, and perfect in every way.
I highly recommend this book, series and author!
One. Click. Today.
Review Tour---> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2014...
I LOVED this book. I have read books one and two in the series and skipped book three to read this one so this book can be read as a standalone though you meet Lucy is the books prior to this one. This book was beautifully written taking us on a journey in the different yet similar lives of two people who find a way to love again after suffering from tragedy and loss.
This is Evan and Lucy's story. Evan is damaged. After suffering loss many times, he is a shell of the man he use to be. Lucy is broken. After suffering loss, she closed herself off to the chance at love. When these two collide, the sparks fly between and the tension is thick. Neither were looking for love again. Neither were expecting the chemistry they had. Can these two damaged souls find a way to heal and love again with each other? Will Evan and Lucy find their happy ending again?
I loved Evan and Lucy! They were both amazing characters who showed so much compassion and strength that it astounded me. This author has a way of writing characters that you can feel their pain, happiness, joy, and everything else that they go through. Evan was amazing, sweet, and perfect in every way.
I highly recommend this book, series and author!
One. Click. Today.
Review Tour---> http://reneeentress.blogspot.com/2014...
March 18, 2014
I absolutely adore this series! From the first book in the series I fell in love with Lucy aka Momma (to all Love Series fans). I craved this book just so I could finally see her happily ever after because no one deserves it more than her! Lucy faces the devastating loss of her husband while she is pregnant with her daughter. She finds it impossible to love again until many years later when she meets Evan. Evan has seen a lot of loss in his life also. He has been through a lot as a firefighter and has battled PTSD and cancer. Evan devoted so much of his time to saving lives that he has not allow himself to find love that is until he is forced to retire and meets Lucy. Their connect is instantaneous but both fight the attraction to one another. I love how we get the backstory on both Evan and Lucy at the beginning of the book because it helps us understand the struggles they go through as a couple. This book is definitely not for the faint at heart. I shed many tears over Lucy and Evan's losses and the trials they go through as a couple but their love is as powerful as they come. We get to see small glimpses of Maddy, Reid, and Melanie. I cannot wait for more in this series!!
April 20, 2016
Finally there's something interesting in this series... a romance for Lucy! This was hinted upon in the earlier books, but we finally get to read their story. I just wish it was better, deeper, less health drama. How much death should we have to read about?
The first third of the book is told in the past for both Lucy and Evan. We experience how Lucy handles the death of her beloved husband and subsequent birth of Melanie just 2 weeks after. We learn about Evan's early firefighter days in Manhattan.
Fast forward 20 years and Lucy meets Evan at a funeral for Reid's mom who was married to Joe, Evan's younger brother.
They're cute as a couple but act like they're in their early 20s because neither of them has been in a serious relationship for 20 years. This is where things kind of fell apart for me. There are no histrionics, but it's clear that the author wasn't feeling these two nearly as much as she did Maddy or Melanie.
The last 20% was drama that the story didn't really need, so I dropped this another star.
The first third of the book is told in the past for both Lucy and Evan. We experience how Lucy handles the death of her beloved husband and subsequent birth of Melanie just 2 weeks after. We learn about Evan's early firefighter days in Manhattan.
Fast forward 20 years and Lucy meets Evan at a funeral for Reid's mom who was married to Joe, Evan's younger brother.
They're cute as a couple but act like they're in their early 20s because neither of them has been in a serious relationship for 20 years. This is where things kind of fell apart for me. There are no histrionics, but it's clear that the author wasn't feeling these two nearly as much as she did Maddy or Melanie.
The last 20% was drama that the story didn't really need, so I dropped this another star.
March 17, 2014
ARC Review from Reading by the Book
This is by far the "best in show" of the series. I cried myself to sleep while reading this and dreamed of the events that touched my heart as well as defined me as a person/mother/friend. I reached out to Melissa several times before I hit 50% to express my gratitude and share some of my own struggles.
I am a huge FAN and want to say, this book is about a reflection of hope as well as finding yourself before accepting the love in which you deserve. The struggles and doubts are real, the acceptance of a role that you have no choice but to embrace is real. Giving yourself time to heal and move on to completeness is in your grasp. That is what Lucy and Evan story is, words of HOPE. The story that shows anything is possible after being dealt a shitty hand. Thank you Melissa for this adult romance that will forever have a place in my heart. EXCELLENT book.
This is by far the "best in show" of the series. I cried myself to sleep while reading this and dreamed of the events that touched my heart as well as defined me as a person/mother/friend. I reached out to Melissa several times before I hit 50% to express my gratitude and share some of my own struggles.
I am a huge FAN and want to say, this book is about a reflection of hope as well as finding yourself before accepting the love in which you deserve. The struggles and doubts are real, the acceptance of a role that you have no choice but to embrace is real. Giving yourself time to heal and move on to completeness is in your grasp. That is what Lucy and Evan story is, words of HOPE. The story that shows anything is possible after being dealt a shitty hand. Thank you Melissa for this adult romance that will forever have a place in my heart. EXCELLENT book.
March 19, 2014
I've actually read this book in one sitting, I'm a huge fan of Melissa Collins I love her style of writing and I LOVE this series it sooo good I don't even think I have a favourite anymore....
This was soooo beautiful I actually teared up in the middle of the book it was so emotional I felt like grabbing Evan and giving him a big bear hug he was so sweet I just loved him to bits n him n Lucy were just so right for each other.
Melissa Collins you're so talented you really know how to bring all my emotions to the surface and there are only a few authors that have done that,you are one of my fave authors and I will read anything you write cus you're that good.....keep up the fantastic writing cus I can't wait to see what u do next :)
This was soooo beautiful I actually teared up in the middle of the book it was so emotional I felt like grabbing Evan and giving him a big bear hug he was so sweet I just loved him to bits n him n Lucy were just so right for each other.
Melissa Collins you're so talented you really know how to bring all my emotions to the surface and there are only a few authors that have done that,you are one of my fave authors and I will read anything you write cus you're that good.....keep up the fantastic writing cus I can't wait to see what u do next :)
Read
November 12, 2014Let Love Be is live :)
Amazon --> www.amzn.com/B00J1PVIIS
B&N --> http://bit.ly/1fOSgKo
You can watch the video trailer and read an excerpt here: http://melissacollinsauthor.com/2014/...
You can read chapter 1 of Let Love Be here: http://www.wattpad.com/41574072-let-l...
Let Love Be will be on sale 11/12/2014 for only 99 cents!! Only until 11/14/2014
Amazon --> www.amzn.com/B00J1PVIIS
B&N --> http://bit.ly/1fOSgKo
You can watch the video trailer and read an excerpt here: http://melissacollinsauthor.com/2014/...
You can read chapter 1 of Let Love Be here: http://www.wattpad.com/41574072-let-l...
Let Love Be will be on sale 11/12/2014 for only 99 cents!! Only until 11/14/2014
March 25, 2014
I have no idea where to start... Melissa Collins Let Love series just keeps getting better and better. She has the ability to grab hold of you from the very beginning and makes you feel all the emotions her characters feel. To see the relationship between Evan and Lucy develop throughout this story was very well done and the sex scenes were intense, passionate and so HOT!
May 27, 2014
GREAT BOOK THE STORY WAS AMAZING AS ALWAYS THE DWRITING WAS AWESOME !! MELISSA KNOWS HOW TO DRAW YOU IN WITH CHARCATERS AND STORIES THAT WILL MELT YOUR HEART !!! LUCY AND EVAN GREAT CHARACTERS AND A GREAT STORY FOR THE BOTH OF THEM IM SO ENJOYING THIS SERIES AND I CANNOT PUT IT DOWN !!! GREAT JOB TO MELISSA COLLINS FOR BRING US SUCH AND TRUELY AMAZNING SERIES!!!!
August 21, 2015
this was probably one of my favorite book in the series. I loved Lucy from the beginning of the Love series and felt she definitely need to find love and to be taking care of for a change. Then in walks Evan this older sexy ex-firefighter (I pictured Richard Greer with a body like Henry Cavill). I loved their romance and all the twist and turns that this book offered.
September 11, 2015
4.5 Stars !
April 9, 2024
This was okay. I'm glad we got Lucy's story, but I wish more had happened. I was a little bored.
May 20, 2014
I love Melissa Collins! Let Love Be is the latest book in the Love Series and I am so in awe once again that a story can be so beautiful and so amazing that I just want more and more. Melissa Collins has taken us on a great journey through these books, and this one is absolutely no exception.
If you have read this series, you have fallen in love with Maddy and Reid and Melanie and Bryan… but did you ever wonder about Momma when it was all said and done? This is a special look into a new chapter of Momma’s life now that Mel and Maddy are all grown up. That is what makes this book so unique, the focus of it is on one of the most beloved characters in this series so far. Mel’s mom, Lucy.
Lucy lost everything when she was very young. Her one true love is gone and she is left alone to raise the child that was conceived in so much love. She knows she will never find a love as true again, soul mates only come along once in a lifetime afterall. But she has more important things to think about than falling in love again, if ever. She has an unborn child that is going to need every bit of her love and courage to carry on in life. Lucy knows that this child is so much more than just a baby, it is the baby that love created and will never be duplicated. And that’s just what Lucy does. She carries on. She loves that little girl with all her heart and she knows that no matter what that child will always know that she is loved and cherished.
Eighteen years later, Lucy finds herself alone again. Her baby is all grown up and living her own life, even her serroget daughter has moved out and is starting a family of her own. Lucy has never thought twice about what it would be like to be in love again, especially now after all this time…
Evan has been forced into a life of retirement after 9/11. It is not something he wanted and he is having a hard time with it all. But he is determined to find happiness out of all of the bad things he has been through. He knows his life is enough. He has seen enough as a fireman and done enough to have regrets, but being alone was never one of them. He wants to have a good life and he knows he can make his life enough…But he certainally wasn’t expecting to find Lucy.
But a chance meeting at a funeral sets this story in motion. The come from two different worlds, but the loss is still there. Evan loved his job more than anything and Lucy loved Jimmy more than anything. But in the end the just found themselves alone. But one small encounter turned into two, then there was some innocent flirting and then… well, I am not going to spoil the story for you, but as much as I love Maddy and Reid and as much as I love Mel and Bryan, there is something to be said about Lucy and Evan.
This is anything but an old people love story. It is actually a beautiful and charming story with lots of love and it’s hot and steamy. It’s tempered with angst and drama but it just so warm and inviting. Melissa Collins just writes the best characters. They are not perfect, they have all had their share of craptastic stuff happen to them but always in the end, they come out as the winners of the stories.
The thing that really got me with this book in the series is that Lucy and Evan are older, more mature and it wasn’t all angst and drama in the sense of the books I typically read, but because it was part of the Love series, it was a must read for me. I loved that it was a more mature perspective on a second chance at love for Lucy and the promise of a great love for Evan. That is not to say it was without steam or angst. There was plenty of both, but they just happened in very different ways that what we expect when we read a romance novel.
Melissa Collins has not only done a fabulous job with this book, but the entire series. This is a must read collection and this book is like the icing on the cake. I love the characters, the places, the story and most of all the love and compassion these characters share. These books are simple reminders of what things in life matter most, and mostly they are not things at all.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
If you have read this series, you have fallen in love with Maddy and Reid and Melanie and Bryan… but did you ever wonder about Momma when it was all said and done? This is a special look into a new chapter of Momma’s life now that Mel and Maddy are all grown up. That is what makes this book so unique, the focus of it is on one of the most beloved characters in this series so far. Mel’s mom, Lucy.
Lucy lost everything when she was very young. Her one true love is gone and she is left alone to raise the child that was conceived in so much love. She knows she will never find a love as true again, soul mates only come along once in a lifetime afterall. But she has more important things to think about than falling in love again, if ever. She has an unborn child that is going to need every bit of her love and courage to carry on in life. Lucy knows that this child is so much more than just a baby, it is the baby that love created and will never be duplicated. And that’s just what Lucy does. She carries on. She loves that little girl with all her heart and she knows that no matter what that child will always know that she is loved and cherished.
Eighteen years later, Lucy finds herself alone again. Her baby is all grown up and living her own life, even her serroget daughter has moved out and is starting a family of her own. Lucy has never thought twice about what it would be like to be in love again, especially now after all this time…
Evan has been forced into a life of retirement after 9/11. It is not something he wanted and he is having a hard time with it all. But he is determined to find happiness out of all of the bad things he has been through. He knows his life is enough. He has seen enough as a fireman and done enough to have regrets, but being alone was never one of them. He wants to have a good life and he knows he can make his life enough…But he certainally wasn’t expecting to find Lucy.
But a chance meeting at a funeral sets this story in motion. The come from two different worlds, but the loss is still there. Evan loved his job more than anything and Lucy loved Jimmy more than anything. But in the end the just found themselves alone. But one small encounter turned into two, then there was some innocent flirting and then… well, I am not going to spoil the story for you, but as much as I love Maddy and Reid and as much as I love Mel and Bryan, there is something to be said about Lucy and Evan.
This is anything but an old people love story. It is actually a beautiful and charming story with lots of love and it’s hot and steamy. It’s tempered with angst and drama but it just so warm and inviting. Melissa Collins just writes the best characters. They are not perfect, they have all had their share of craptastic stuff happen to them but always in the end, they come out as the winners of the stories.
The thing that really got me with this book in the series is that Lucy and Evan are older, more mature and it wasn’t all angst and drama in the sense of the books I typically read, but because it was part of the Love series, it was a must read for me. I loved that it was a more mature perspective on a second chance at love for Lucy and the promise of a great love for Evan. That is not to say it was without steam or angst. There was plenty of both, but they just happened in very different ways that what we expect when we read a romance novel.
Melissa Collins has not only done a fabulous job with this book, but the entire series. This is a must read collection and this book is like the icing on the cake. I love the characters, the places, the story and most of all the love and compassion these characters share. These books are simple reminders of what things in life matter most, and mostly they are not things at all.
*I received a complimentary copy of this book in exchange for an honest review
April 8, 2014
“All we have to do now is just be.”Simple words that could not be truer. There is SO SO SO much I want to say about Let Love Be, but it’s really something you HAVE to read and experience for yourself. It’s an incredibly wonderful journey and if I give away too many details, it will ruin it for you.
Phenomenal, breath-taking, and hands down, a fantastic must-read! I am absolutely in love with Lucy and Evan’s story. I could not put this book down! I literally pulled an all-nighter because it was THAT amazing. Let Love Be is by far, my favorite book in The Love Series. It’s beautiful, emotional and written utterly well.
Even though this is the fourth full-length novel in the series, it can be read as a standalone. We DO see the other characters from the other installments, but it is mainly focused on Lucy -- Melanie’s mom, and Evan.
“…when Melanie was born, part of me was reborn too, the part that knew I had to keep on living despite the pain…”
Let me start right off by saying that you WILL shed a few tears, if not more, along this story line. The first part of this book was truly heartbreaking! I had tears in my eyes more than a handful of times. Hell, throughout the book, there were even a few little freak out moments that left me speechless with an aching heart. So again, yes, cue the tears.
“We are both so afraid to lose again, that we never let anyone in.”
Lucy had suffered a horrible, gut-wrenching loss. My heart was SHATTERED for her. Losing the love of your life, unexpectedly, while practically about to give birth to your first child??? Wow. I still think about it and I get goose bumps. The way Melissa Collins wrote all this amazed me. She managed to evoke all these emotions, managed to make me feel as if I had been the one who’d suffered that loss…. Amazing. Written SO well.
“Evan, you woke me up. You brought me back to life and you made my heart work again. You made me realize that it’s possible to love again.”
Evan Donovan. Oh, my panties!!! They definitely flew across the room for that man!! *fans-self* God! He was so sexy……and a FIREMAN!!!!!!!!! *fans-self…uh-gain!*
Okay… Evan lived his life fully dedicated to the FDNY and his ‘brothers’ that worked alongside him. He lived for his job….for them. Everything else came second to him. Including love. Until Lucy.
I have seen very few book couples that truly, 100 percent, deserved each other, and Lucy and Evan sure made that list! They were PERFECT for each other. They brought out the best in themselves, they made each other really give life….LOVE…a second chance. Sure, it wasn’t easy because they had their fair share of issues, but oh man, was everything worth it. I am seriously IN LOVE with Evan and Lucy. It was SO nice seeing them face ‘different’ types of problems, rather than the same ones we usually get in books. I guess you could say, they overcame more adult-type issues, and it was refreshing……..and heart-breaking. Ha.
Gosh. I wish I could elaborate more on the amazingness that makes up this book, but really, you HAVE to read it. I loved all the previous installments in this series, but Let Love Be knocked it out of the park for me. In every way possible. I HIGHLY recommend you buy this book.
If you’ve read the other installments in The Love Series, books #1-3 -- Let Love In, Let Love Stay, Let Love Heal, and novella #3.5 – Let Love Shine, then you KNOW how much Lucy deserved her happily ever after. Go one-click!
“You’re my home, Lucy.”
Release Day Blitz + Giveaway: http://bit.ly/1e6JUij
Amazon: http://amzn.to/PoR6uy
April 7, 2014
If there is ever a supporting character in a book series who deserves her own happily ever after, it has to be Lucy, Momma, from Melissa Collins’ Love Series. In the previous stories, Lucy is selfless and beyond giving; she puts everyone else’s needs/wants in front of her own and is always willing to help at a moment’s notice. By watching her interaction with Maddy, Reid, and Melanie, readers would never know of her extreme loss or the severe depression she faced when her husband died so young and left her alone to raise their baby girl who was due to be born just after he died. Lucy simply “exists” for so many years, giving everything she has to ensure Melanie has a good life without once thinking of herself. But that all changes when Evan enters her life and puts her wants and needs first. Evan helps Lucy to live again; he brings out her feistiness, her desires, and her snarky attitude…all characteristics of Lucy’s personality that have been dormant since her husband’s death.
Let Love Be opens up 18 years earlier. Melissa takes readers simultaneously through Lucy and Evan’s dark days. We’re there with Lucy when she gets the news of her husband’s death, and we watch her struggle to keep living even after her little girl is born. These scenes are extremely well written; they give readers a realistic look into all of the emotions that are involved with the loss of a spouse. While Lucy is enduring her heartbreak, Evan experiences torment of a different type. As a firefighter, Evan’s job is to help those in need, but when he can’t, he feels powerless as well as responsible for what occurs. His job means everything to him, but that’s because it’s the only thing he really has. Evan closes himself off to any ideas of a relationship. He doesn’t allow himself to get close to anyone except for his fellow fire fighters. He refuses to make his life messy, but like Lucy, Evan has merely been existing all these years. Fast forward eighteen years and a chance meeting as well as Evan’s decision to relocate provides both Evan and Lucy with an opportunity to finally get back to living and loving.
What follows Evan and Lucy’s first encounter is a beautiful love story; one that speaks to finding love again even after you think all hope is lost. It’s about letting go of a past filled with hardships and devastation and grabbing on to every piece of happiness you can manage. It’s about moving forward with a person you thought you would never find but thanking God that you have the opportunity to do so.
Melissa Collins’ Love Series is an emotional experience. Each book offers insights on a plethora of topics. Melissa shows her readers that even though love may not come easy and there may be frustrations, tears, and loss along the way, there’s nothing better than living a life with the person who completes you; a person who is meant for you and you alone, and in Let Love Be, Melissa proves that even when you think all hope is gone and you become complacent in your life, fate has a way to knock you on your ass and wake you up to what is truly important in life.
The whole series is MUST READ, but if I had to suggest one book out of all of them to read, it would definitely be this one. The growth of Lucy and Evan, even as adults, is a wonderful thing to watch. There is so much depth to both of them that readers can’t help but fall in love with their story.
A complimentary copy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
5 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
Let Love Be opens up 18 years earlier. Melissa takes readers simultaneously through Lucy and Evan’s dark days. We’re there with Lucy when she gets the news of her husband’s death, and we watch her struggle to keep living even after her little girl is born. These scenes are extremely well written; they give readers a realistic look into all of the emotions that are involved with the loss of a spouse. While Lucy is enduring her heartbreak, Evan experiences torment of a different type. As a firefighter, Evan’s job is to help those in need, but when he can’t, he feels powerless as well as responsible for what occurs. His job means everything to him, but that’s because it’s the only thing he really has. Evan closes himself off to any ideas of a relationship. He doesn’t allow himself to get close to anyone except for his fellow fire fighters. He refuses to make his life messy, but like Lucy, Evan has merely been existing all these years. Fast forward eighteen years and a chance meeting as well as Evan’s decision to relocate provides both Evan and Lucy with an opportunity to finally get back to living and loving.
What follows Evan and Lucy’s first encounter is a beautiful love story; one that speaks to finding love again even after you think all hope is lost. It’s about letting go of a past filled with hardships and devastation and grabbing on to every piece of happiness you can manage. It’s about moving forward with a person you thought you would never find but thanking God that you have the opportunity to do so.
Melissa Collins’ Love Series is an emotional experience. Each book offers insights on a plethora of topics. Melissa shows her readers that even though love may not come easy and there may be frustrations, tears, and loss along the way, there’s nothing better than living a life with the person who completes you; a person who is meant for you and you alone, and in Let Love Be, Melissa proves that even when you think all hope is gone and you become complacent in your life, fate has a way to knock you on your ass and wake you up to what is truly important in life.
The whole series is MUST READ, but if I had to suggest one book out of all of them to read, it would definitely be this one. The growth of Lucy and Evan, even as adults, is a wonderful thing to watch. There is so much depth to both of them that readers can’t help but fall in love with their story.
A complimentary copy of the book was provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
5 poison apples (The Fairest of All Book Reviews)
April 11, 2015
Let love be is a heart breaking, innocently beautiful and timeless story showing us that love can happen at all ages, especially when we think that the most important time or people have moved on and left us behind.
This is my first Melissa Collins book and I most thoroughly enjoyed it. It is the fourth book in the Love series, a standalone containing interconnected characters. If you've read the previous books in the series you will already have met Lucy the female lead as she's Melanie's (book 3) mum.
Lucy, who's now 43 has raised her daughter as a single mother as she lost the love of her life, Jimmy in a tragic accident 2 weeks before the birth of their baby girl.
OMG. I was a blubbering mess. Lucy's story is sooo sad, so guys, make sure you have tissues in standby. At about 15% in I literally had to put this down for a bit so I could gather myself together after the sadness I was immersed in.
One of the things I loved about this book was the interactions between Evan and Lucy when they were just getting to know each other. The awkward moments, the slight touches to test the waters. The flirty texting. Nothing overly sexual. Just innocent and real. It made it so believable. And Evan. Even though he's character is 52, all I'm thinking is George Clooney. And he may be getting on in age but he still keeps the heart beating a little faster ;)
Let Love be is written in alternative point of views, which I found really well written. There's two distinct characters. None of this "who's talking now" that I've come across in the past. I have to admit that I like my stories a little more face paced with probably a bit more angst, but you know what? This wasn't really the kind of story that needed it or warranted it. And I think that's partly the reason it works. That it's an older couple. All that extra jazz would make it cheesy and so … run of the mill I guess. And I have to say I enjoyed reading about an older couple. Not that 43 and 52 are old, since I'm now in my early 30's. It's just nice to read about … something more real. No kidnappings, biker shootings, college pregnancies, crazy ex's and the like. After Lucy's beginning and Evan being caught up in his career, it was nice to see a story about second chance love at a time in your life where things have slowed down, a period where you can start to focus on spending time doing the things you want to do rather than for everyone else.
4 stars.
**I received a copy of the book for an honest review**
This review can also be found on my blog, so don't be shy, follow me and never miss any of the goss -
http://romanceofdaydreams.blogspot.com
Or find me on facebook:
http://facebook.com/romanceofdaydreams
This is my first Melissa Collins book and I most thoroughly enjoyed it. It is the fourth book in the Love series, a standalone containing interconnected characters. If you've read the previous books in the series you will already have met Lucy the female lead as she's Melanie's (book 3) mum.
Lucy, who's now 43 has raised her daughter as a single mother as she lost the love of her life, Jimmy in a tragic accident 2 weeks before the birth of their baby girl.
When Jimmy died, a part of me died with him. But when Melanie was born, part of me was reborn too, the part that knew I had to keep on living despite the pain, and that I had to find beauty in the midst of all the ugliness. Jimmy had been my everything, but now my daughter owed the only space left in my heart.
OMG. I was a blubbering mess. Lucy's story is sooo sad, so guys, make sure you have tissues in standby. At about 15% in I literally had to put this down for a bit so I could gather myself together after the sadness I was immersed in.
One of the things I loved about this book was the interactions between Evan and Lucy when they were just getting to know each other. The awkward moments, the slight touches to test the waters. The flirty texting. Nothing overly sexual. Just innocent and real. It made it so believable. And Evan. Even though he's character is 52, all I'm thinking is George Clooney. And he may be getting on in age but he still keeps the heart beating a little faster ;)
Everything about him is strong and muscled; watching him move to put the beer down on the counter is like watching a work of art in motion.
Let Love be is written in alternative point of views, which I found really well written. There's two distinct characters. None of this "who's talking now" that I've come across in the past. I have to admit that I like my stories a little more face paced with probably a bit more angst, but you know what? This wasn't really the kind of story that needed it or warranted it. And I think that's partly the reason it works. That it's an older couple. All that extra jazz would make it cheesy and so … run of the mill I guess. And I have to say I enjoyed reading about an older couple. Not that 43 and 52 are old, since I'm now in my early 30's. It's just nice to read about … something more real. No kidnappings, biker shootings, college pregnancies, crazy ex's and the like. After Lucy's beginning and Evan being caught up in his career, it was nice to see a story about second chance love at a time in your life where things have slowed down, a period where you can start to focus on spending time doing the things you want to do rather than for everyone else.
4 stars.
**I received a copy of the book for an honest review**
This review can also be found on my blog, so don't be shy, follow me and never miss any of the goss -
http://romanceofdaydreams.blogspot.com
Or find me on facebook:
http://facebook.com/romanceofdaydreams
April 7, 2014
*ARC REVIEW*
Two heart's that are scarred, can they be healed?
Lucy has lost the only person she has ever loved, Jimmy. Losing her husband unexpectedly, while 8 1/2 month's pregnant, is the last thing she ever fathomed. Her heart is ripped, torn, shredded, but having Melanie it has eased some of the pain.
Evan is a Fire Fighter, who put's his life on the line on a daily bases. When one move changes his life and causes someone to get hurt, he doesn't know how to forgive his self, or to overcome the guilt.
"I do want this, but I guess I'm just scared."- Lucy
Lucy and Evan have spent the last eighteen years alone and lonely. Both struggling with their own demons and not overcoming them entirely. With a chance encounter at Evan's sister-in-law's funeral, they meet each other and they could possibly be what each other needs to finally feel complete.
Both Evan and Lucy will take the step's that will bring them closer and learning more about one another. After having your heart closed for so long, it take a special person to open it up and tear your walls down.
"The is no if. I want to be with you. I fucked up because I was scared, but I promise never to shut you out again."-Evan
With love healing old wounds, letting love in and finding someone who get's you, nothing could be better.
"He'll always be in my heart, Evan, but my heart- it belongs to you now."- Lucy
Taking steps together and moving along in their relationship, pain will once again find it's way into Evan and Lucy's life. Will the love they both have finally found be torn from them? Will hearts once again be broken?
Let Love Be is a emotional, heartfelt, loving, sweet book. Both characters have been through so much. I can see why it would be hard to give in and let things happen. Scared to finally find that one person and have them ripped away from you, again. Lucy, we have came to know her throughout The Love Series as Momma, Maddy's "sergeant" and Mel's Mom. We know her back story, but we didn't KNOW her. As soon as I started this book, the tears came. My heart broke for her. I couldn't ever fathom that pain and I never want to. I wanted her to be happy and to find love. That is what Melissa Collins does, she writes stories that have you falling in love with these characters, knowing them and wanting nothing but the best for them. Evan, I truly enjoyed learning about him. Like in the previous books, we get glimpse of Evan, but we don't know the whole story and I'm so glad we now do. You will fall in love with this "Silver Fox" he is just sexy, sweet, loving, caring and will makes you say "AWW" over and over. This story was written well and flowed just right, we get both their POV through the entire thing, each having their own chapter, picking up with the other left off. I adore this series and I never want it to end, I know it will, but damn it I don't want it to!!! If your looking for a book that has it all from heart break, loss, finding yourself and love... well Ladies and Gents, this is the book for you. I give this book 5 stars!!!
Two heart's that are scarred, can they be healed?
Lucy has lost the only person she has ever loved, Jimmy. Losing her husband unexpectedly, while 8 1/2 month's pregnant, is the last thing she ever fathomed. Her heart is ripped, torn, shredded, but having Melanie it has eased some of the pain.
Evan is a Fire Fighter, who put's his life on the line on a daily bases. When one move changes his life and causes someone to get hurt, he doesn't know how to forgive his self, or to overcome the guilt.
"I do want this, but I guess I'm just scared."- Lucy
Lucy and Evan have spent the last eighteen years alone and lonely. Both struggling with their own demons and not overcoming them entirely. With a chance encounter at Evan's sister-in-law's funeral, they meet each other and they could possibly be what each other needs to finally feel complete.
Both Evan and Lucy will take the step's that will bring them closer and learning more about one another. After having your heart closed for so long, it take a special person to open it up and tear your walls down.
"The is no if. I want to be with you. I fucked up because I was scared, but I promise never to shut you out again."-Evan
With love healing old wounds, letting love in and finding someone who get's you, nothing could be better.
"He'll always be in my heart, Evan, but my heart- it belongs to you now."- Lucy
Taking steps together and moving along in their relationship, pain will once again find it's way into Evan and Lucy's life. Will the love they both have finally found be torn from them? Will hearts once again be broken?
Let Love Be is a emotional, heartfelt, loving, sweet book. Both characters have been through so much. I can see why it would be hard to give in and let things happen. Scared to finally find that one person and have them ripped away from you, again. Lucy, we have came to know her throughout The Love Series as Momma, Maddy's "sergeant" and Mel's Mom. We know her back story, but we didn't KNOW her. As soon as I started this book, the tears came. My heart broke for her. I couldn't ever fathom that pain and I never want to. I wanted her to be happy and to find love. That is what Melissa Collins does, she writes stories that have you falling in love with these characters, knowing them and wanting nothing but the best for them. Evan, I truly enjoyed learning about him. Like in the previous books, we get glimpse of Evan, but we don't know the whole story and I'm so glad we now do. You will fall in love with this "Silver Fox" he is just sexy, sweet, loving, caring and will makes you say "AWW" over and over. This story was written well and flowed just right, we get both their POV through the entire thing, each having their own chapter, picking up with the other left off. I adore this series and I never want it to end, I know it will, but damn it I don't want it to!!! If your looking for a book that has it all from heart break, loss, finding yourself and love... well Ladies and Gents, this is the book for you. I give this book 5 stars!!!
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