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Let It Be
Let It Be is an extraordinary story inspired by the music of The Beatles.
Newly-separated Michelle Jansen longs to create a new life for herself and her children, Joseph and Pam, but making a fresh start isn't easy. A fresh start means upheaval - uprooting her family, moving across the state of Texas, settling into a too-small home, and entering the workforce - giving up the family's old life in search of something new and better. But even in the midst of chaos, Michelle experiences an she rediscovers her love of The Beatles and finds solace in the Let It Be album. She joins, and adapts to, the workplace, and she finds promise in a burgeoning relationship with a man who loves her without trying to control her.
Soon, however, Michelle realizes that her overbearing ex-husband is willing to destroy her new life if he can't have her to himself. Given the past, her ex's behavior is no real surprise, but when she is betrayed by her own son, Michelle is hurt in an unexpected, almost unimaginable way.
When passion and rage collide, one man will nearly lose his life, one will lose his freedom, and one family will never be the same. Can this fractured family find healing and forgiveness in the midst of guilt and sorrow? Or will love give them the strength to let it be?
A powerful story of loss, longing, and forgiveness that unfolds under West Texas skies, Let It Be is a mesmerizing debut novel. Part family saga, part coming-of-age tale, part testament to the power of a mother's love, Let It Be chronicles the breakup of a marriage, the destruction of a family, and the struggle to come together in the aftermath of what remains.
Newly-separated Michelle Jansen longs to create a new life for herself and her children, Joseph and Pam, but making a fresh start isn't easy. A fresh start means upheaval - uprooting her family, moving across the state of Texas, settling into a too-small home, and entering the workforce - giving up the family's old life in search of something new and better. But even in the midst of chaos, Michelle experiences an she rediscovers her love of The Beatles and finds solace in the Let It Be album. She joins, and adapts to, the workplace, and she finds promise in a burgeoning relationship with a man who loves her without trying to control her.
Soon, however, Michelle realizes that her overbearing ex-husband is willing to destroy her new life if he can't have her to himself. Given the past, her ex's behavior is no real surprise, but when she is betrayed by her own son, Michelle is hurt in an unexpected, almost unimaginable way.
When passion and rage collide, one man will nearly lose his life, one will lose his freedom, and one family will never be the same. Can this fractured family find healing and forgiveness in the midst of guilt and sorrow? Or will love give them the strength to let it be?
A powerful story of loss, longing, and forgiveness that unfolds under West Texas skies, Let It Be is a mesmerizing debut novel. Part family saga, part coming-of-age tale, part testament to the power of a mother's love, Let It Be chronicles the breakup of a marriage, the destruction of a family, and the struggle to come together in the aftermath of what remains.
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First published May 8, 2013
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About the author
Chad Gayle
11 books72 followersChad Gayle is a science fiction and fantasy author who lives in New York.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 70 reviews
May 30, 2015
“When the broken hearted people living in the world agree, there will be an answer, let it be.”
----Christopher Chase
Chad Gayle, an American author, has penned his debut novel, Let It Be that revolves around the life of a broken family tuning with the melody and flow of the Beatles very last album, Let It Be.
Synopsis:
Let it be is a touching tale of loss, longing, and forgiveness that chronicles the breakup of a marriage, the destruction of a family, and the struggle to come together in the aftermath of what remains.
Searching for the love and happiness she feels she deserves, Michelle Jansen leaves her abusive, overbearing husband behind and takes her two kids to Amarillo, Texas, where she begins to learn how to stand on her own two feet, supporting herself and her children with the money she earns from a low-paying job as she becomes increasingly involved with a coworker who is an even bigger fan of the Beatles than she is.
But Michelle doesn’t realize that her ex-husband is willing to do whatever he can to destroy her new life. When Michelle is betrayed by her very own son, this already fractured family will be damaged in an almost unimaginable way. Can they find forgiveness in the midst of so much sorrow and guilt, or will love give them the strength that they need to let it be?
The timeline is of year 1979 in the state of Texas, where a small happy family breaks up into two halves. Michelle and Bill have two kids, Joseph and Pam, who gets to live with their mother after the break up. Michelle is subjected to domestic violence and abuse by her husband, Bill. She along with her children moves to Amarillo where she finds a new receptionist job as well as love after a long time. Unfortunately her happiness is not meant for long when her own son betrays her by telling on her to his violent father, Bill. What happens next is for you to find out. Will Michelle forgive her son?
This is an heart-wrenching story which gripped me from the very first page and just like Beatles hit song and album, Let It Be, where just like the album's storyline, Michelle's life too moves with the same pattern. The song playing out from the vinyl record will hit you the instant you start reading this book. The prose of the book sways along with the melody of this song. Every other chapter begins with the title from Let It Be album
The writing is very polished and articulate with a strong narrative style. The shifting narration gives a lot of momentum to the book and the way the author have given voice to his characters after the start of every character is something really unique. The characters are flawlessly captured in this book through their thoughts, thus letting me contemplate with their fear, feelings, empathy and guilt.
The author have brought some strong themes through his story, like how a woman who is a victim of domestic violence finds her courage to walk away from her husband, then finding love, sacrificing it for the sake of her own children, like how a young boy cannot grow up without a strong male presence in his life. The emotions that the author have portrayed in his book are vivid and very true. It is a coming-of-age novel although the book is set in the late 70s and that is where I felt the author could have installed a bit of his 70s timeline into the storyline, instead of making us feel like it is happening today.
Verdict: A must-read for all the literary fans.
Courtesy: Thanks to the author, Chad Gayle, for giving me an opportunity to read and review his book.
----Christopher Chase
Chad Gayle, an American author, has penned his debut novel, Let It Be that revolves around the life of a broken family tuning with the melody and flow of the Beatles very last album, Let It Be.
Synopsis:
Let it be is a touching tale of loss, longing, and forgiveness that chronicles the breakup of a marriage, the destruction of a family, and the struggle to come together in the aftermath of what remains.
Searching for the love and happiness she feels she deserves, Michelle Jansen leaves her abusive, overbearing husband behind and takes her two kids to Amarillo, Texas, where she begins to learn how to stand on her own two feet, supporting herself and her children with the money she earns from a low-paying job as she becomes increasingly involved with a coworker who is an even bigger fan of the Beatles than she is.
But Michelle doesn’t realize that her ex-husband is willing to do whatever he can to destroy her new life. When Michelle is betrayed by her very own son, this already fractured family will be damaged in an almost unimaginable way. Can they find forgiveness in the midst of so much sorrow and guilt, or will love give them the strength that they need to let it be?
The timeline is of year 1979 in the state of Texas, where a small happy family breaks up into two halves. Michelle and Bill have two kids, Joseph and Pam, who gets to live with their mother after the break up. Michelle is subjected to domestic violence and abuse by her husband, Bill. She along with her children moves to Amarillo where she finds a new receptionist job as well as love after a long time. Unfortunately her happiness is not meant for long when her own son betrays her by telling on her to his violent father, Bill. What happens next is for you to find out. Will Michelle forgive her son?
This is an heart-wrenching story which gripped me from the very first page and just like Beatles hit song and album, Let It Be, where just like the album's storyline, Michelle's life too moves with the same pattern. The song playing out from the vinyl record will hit you the instant you start reading this book. The prose of the book sways along with the melody of this song. Every other chapter begins with the title from Let It Be album
The writing is very polished and articulate with a strong narrative style. The shifting narration gives a lot of momentum to the book and the way the author have given voice to his characters after the start of every character is something really unique. The characters are flawlessly captured in this book through their thoughts, thus letting me contemplate with their fear, feelings, empathy and guilt.
The author have brought some strong themes through his story, like how a woman who is a victim of domestic violence finds her courage to walk away from her husband, then finding love, sacrificing it for the sake of her own children, like how a young boy cannot grow up without a strong male presence in his life. The emotions that the author have portrayed in his book are vivid and very true. It is a coming-of-age novel although the book is set in the late 70s and that is where I felt the author could have installed a bit of his 70s timeline into the storyline, instead of making us feel like it is happening today.
Verdict: A must-read for all the literary fans.
Courtesy: Thanks to the author, Chad Gayle, for giving me an opportunity to read and review his book.
April 16, 2015
I have absolutely no idea why this book was written. It had a great beginning that drew me in:
"When my brother was ten years old, he almost killed a man."
But then the story became convoluted and confusing. I wasn't sure if it was about the pain from a divorce, the horrors of physical/emotional abuse, love of The Beatles or all of the above.
"When my brother was ten years old, he almost killed a man."
But then the story became convoluted and confusing. I wasn't sure if it was about the pain from a divorce, the horrors of physical/emotional abuse, love of The Beatles or all of the above.
March 7, 2015
Lovely cover, the book was sort of average though. Nice story, but nice is just such an insufficient term. Part coming of age story, part family drama set in 1979 Texas to the last album of the most famous band in the world. Basic plot is...a young mother of two kids decides to leave her abusive husband and make a life on her own. When she starts dating, things get complicated and potentially dangerous. Sounds simple and straight forward and it is, it really is, there are no twists and turns, no real surprises, nothing to wow the reader in any way. It's just a very plain sort of thing executed in a very plain sort of way. You keep hoping something more will happen and it just doesn't. It also has a pretty sad message that a mother basically has to completely sacrifice her own happiness for the sake of her children. Pleasant unexciting sort of a read.
July 19, 2015
I received this book from Goodreads Giveaways.
Let It Be was so much more than I expected.
It was the story of a family that moved to a new town to escape an abusive situation. A mother struggles to create a new life for herself and her children while her ex husband and son do everything they can to stop it.
The book was well-written and extremely easy to read. I enjoyed every minute of it and I highly recommend it!
You can also read this review and more at http://brittanymariereads.wordpress.com
Let It Be was so much more than I expected.
It was the story of a family that moved to a new town to escape an abusive situation. A mother struggles to create a new life for herself and her children while her ex husband and son do everything they can to stop it.
The book was well-written and extremely easy to read. I enjoyed every minute of it and I highly recommend it!
You can also read this review and more at http://brittanymariereads.wordpress.com
May 29, 2013
Loved it! And not just because I'm a Beatles fan. But it takes you back to a time and place that's so vivid you can't help but lose yourself in it.
There are serious issues here - divorce, single parenting, abuse - and Chad Gale conveys the pain and hope in every character.
I was surprised that it was written by a man - but obviously a man who understands women.
There are serious issues here - divorce, single parenting, abuse - and Chad Gale conveys the pain and hope in every character.
I was surprised that it was written by a man - but obviously a man who understands women.
June 29, 2015
“Let it Be” by Chad Gayle is a poignant family drama set in the 1970s. The novel is framed by the Beatles’ “Let it Be” album, with each chapter named for a song on the record. As a Beatles fan who has also incorporated the Fab Four into my work, I found this to be very pleasing as well as effective. However, one does not need to be familiar with the Beatles to appreciate, understand and enjoy the novel.
The quote from protagonist Michelle (ma belle…) sums up the importance of the album in her life: “There is one album that would be perfect, an album that would help me get through tonight: my one and only Beatles record, the one he took away from me. Paul and John, Ringo and George, could sing me to sleep, right here on the sofa.”
The novel is about a young woman Michelle, the mother of Pam and Joseph, who leaves her abusive husband to restart a life for herself and her children in a dry, dusty, flat area near Amarillo, Texas, in the 1970s. Young Joseph has a hard time adjusting, and “his sister Pam”’s introduction sets the ground work so the reader knows all of this tension will lead to something tragic.
The writer does an exceptional job of putting the reader in time period with pop culture references to “The Love Boat,” “Little House on the Prairie,” a plastic frog as a toothbrush holder, and turntable record players. It was a time when boys spent their summer days riding their bikes aimlessly and happening on ball games to participate in. Joseph’s favorite place is the library; a highly intelligent child, he is fascinated with space exploration and imagines himself traveling “across the universe.”
The novel is a very realistic look at a woman’s struggle as she starts life over with her kids. The ordinary things are interesting because we are vested in the characters: Running home at lunch from her job to make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for her kids, treating them to McDonald’s one night, taking them swimming at their uncle’s condo complex swimming pool.
The drama heightens when Michelle carves out time for herself and begins a passionate relationship with the sales manager of the company she works for. She experiences so many emotions: glee over falling in love, guilt over spending time away from her children, especially resentful Joseph, desire to just think in the moment.
It’s definitely the kind of novel I find myself thinking about often after reading it. I highly recommend it.
The quote from protagonist Michelle (ma belle…) sums up the importance of the album in her life: “There is one album that would be perfect, an album that would help me get through tonight: my one and only Beatles record, the one he took away from me. Paul and John, Ringo and George, could sing me to sleep, right here on the sofa.”
The novel is about a young woman Michelle, the mother of Pam and Joseph, who leaves her abusive husband to restart a life for herself and her children in a dry, dusty, flat area near Amarillo, Texas, in the 1970s. Young Joseph has a hard time adjusting, and “his sister Pam”’s introduction sets the ground work so the reader knows all of this tension will lead to something tragic.
The writer does an exceptional job of putting the reader in time period with pop culture references to “The Love Boat,” “Little House on the Prairie,” a plastic frog as a toothbrush holder, and turntable record players. It was a time when boys spent their summer days riding their bikes aimlessly and happening on ball games to participate in. Joseph’s favorite place is the library; a highly intelligent child, he is fascinated with space exploration and imagines himself traveling “across the universe.”
The novel is a very realistic look at a woman’s struggle as she starts life over with her kids. The ordinary things are interesting because we are vested in the characters: Running home at lunch from her job to make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for her kids, treating them to McDonald’s one night, taking them swimming at their uncle’s condo complex swimming pool.
The drama heightens when Michelle carves out time for herself and begins a passionate relationship with the sales manager of the company she works for. She experiences so many emotions: glee over falling in love, guilt over spending time away from her children, especially resentful Joseph, desire to just think in the moment.
It’s definitely the kind of novel I find myself thinking about often after reading it. I highly recommend it.
February 24, 2015
In this well written debut novel "Let It Be" author Chad Gayle takes readers to Amarillo, in the Texas panhandle, and weaves a story of a brave determined young divorcing mother breaking free from domestic abuse and finding solace, comfort and inspiration in the lyrics and songs on the Beatles "Let It Be" album (1969). The story also raises awareness of the harmful effects of emotional abuse in a marriage, and dangerous consequences of domestic violence.
In 1979 Michelle Jensen relocated with her two pre teen children Pam and Joseph, near her brother Chuck in Amarillo. The story unfolds somewhat predictably when Michelle begins dating her supervisor at her new job, Dan. Michelle is able to date Dan in secret with Chuck watching Pam and Joseph, correctly assuming it would be unwise for Dan to either call or come to her house. Gayle portrays a chilling, creepy, sinister look at Bill Jensen: who is unable to accept that Michelle and their children aren't going to return to him. Bill uses and manipulates Joseph to spy on his mother, and stalks her unrelentingly. The Beatles music serves to ease the tension for Michelle, at times she seems blissfully unaware of the danger she is in, distracted by her new romantic interest in Dan. Michelle is a good mother, fully engaged with her children, setting limits, and steady discipline.
The varying moods Gayle creates is really excellent, from the suspense of wondering if Michelle was going to be safe, as she was lulled by the soothing Beatle song lyrics, to the coming-of-age as Joseph matured. The positive influence of uncle Chuck, really focused on the importance of good male role models in a young children's life, especially when facing the changes in life related to family break-up and divorce.
Many thanks and much appreciation for the e-ARC provided for the purpose of review. Chad Gayle is from Texas, receiving his education from Texas A&M University, with interests in fine art and photography, he has also taught English and creative writing. He lives in N.Y. with his wife and family.
In 1979 Michelle Jensen relocated with her two pre teen children Pam and Joseph, near her brother Chuck in Amarillo. The story unfolds somewhat predictably when Michelle begins dating her supervisor at her new job, Dan. Michelle is able to date Dan in secret with Chuck watching Pam and Joseph, correctly assuming it would be unwise for Dan to either call or come to her house. Gayle portrays a chilling, creepy, sinister look at Bill Jensen: who is unable to accept that Michelle and their children aren't going to return to him. Bill uses and manipulates Joseph to spy on his mother, and stalks her unrelentingly. The Beatles music serves to ease the tension for Michelle, at times she seems blissfully unaware of the danger she is in, distracted by her new romantic interest in Dan. Michelle is a good mother, fully engaged with her children, setting limits, and steady discipline.
The varying moods Gayle creates is really excellent, from the suspense of wondering if Michelle was going to be safe, as she was lulled by the soothing Beatle song lyrics, to the coming-of-age as Joseph matured. The positive influence of uncle Chuck, really focused on the importance of good male role models in a young children's life, especially when facing the changes in life related to family break-up and divorce.
Many thanks and much appreciation for the e-ARC provided for the purpose of review. Chad Gayle is from Texas, receiving his education from Texas A&M University, with interests in fine art and photography, he has also taught English and creative writing. He lives in N.Y. with his wife and family.
July 15, 2013
My Review: I really loved this book. It is told in such an understated way that is so enjoyable to read. I got real involved in the characters. I liked the story being told from the perspective of not only the mother but the children and even some from the mothers new love interest. At a time in history when divorce is becoming more prevalent Michelle leaves her controlling and sometime abusive husband and embarks on a new life that has her searching her very soul. Trying to juggle her new found freedom and the demands of motherhood is inspiring and I’m sure that many can relate to today. Through it all the deep love the family has for each other runs deep and they come out the other side better for the journey. Weaving the album from the Beatles was such a nice touch. Many can relate to how certain songs can get us through the rough patches. This book meets all the criteria I look for in a book. Well told, well edited, something I would want to read again and something I would recommend to others. It gets a 5 star rating.
October 15, 2013
I just finished this book, in 2 1/2 days and all I can say is WOW! Amazing! I am still crying from the ending. This book is so well written and so descriptive, I felt like I was Michelle. I felt what she felt. This author is so incredible of a writer, there are no words to express how deeply this book affected me. As a parent it made me question decisions that I had made in my life, it made me love my children more( if that is possible), they are now grown. This book has characters that are so well developed, you will be absorbed by the essence of the words in this novel. Well written , amazing story, you will be carried into this book through the wonderful prose of this fantastic author. Bravo! Highly recommend this one to all. I received this book through goodreads for an honest review, and honestly, this is a MUST READ!
March 14, 2015
The premise was good, but the book didn't fulfill my expectations. The pace was slow and I continually wondered what the characters' motivation was for most of their decisions. There was a lot that could have been explored much more fully; I kept waiting for the "real" story to start, and suddenly the book was over. This isn't a book that will stay with me, and it's not one I'd recommend.
February 13, 2015
Wonderful debut
Chad showed a family dealing with divorce in a brilliant debut. He paints a picture that is a work of art in itself.
Chad showed a family dealing with divorce in a brilliant debut. He paints a picture that is a work of art in itself.
May 9, 2013
Let It Be: Chad Gayle
Let It Be: powerful words with multiple meanings behind them. Sometimes life takes people down more than one road. All too often there are obstacles blocking the path and times of darkness as the song says. But, simple actions take on new meanings for Joseph and Pam Jansen as their mother Michelle decides to carve out a new life for them. Texas was where she decided to set up their new home, Amarillo, to be exact. Lacking a college education and the skills for a lucrative paying job, Michelle works hard at just getting anything to support her family on her own. Secretarial and filing would be her responsibilities, reporting to someone that was not exactly understanding of her plight and dealing with an abusive ex-husband bent on making her life even more difficult some people cannot truly as the song says: Let It Be!
Joseph seems to be centered in many different ways. A great son, always looking to help his mom he immerses himself in learning more about the solar system, the cosmos and outer space. Viking missions to Mars, comets, fantastic machines, crystal spires and wanting to explore the outer reaches of space, Joseph seems to be off into his own world in order to hide at times from the one he lives in. Sister Pam, although a smart and helpful young girl, wants some freedom of her own, is supposed to monitor Joseph while Michelle is at work, and manages to break a few rules, speaks her mind only to realize that she is sorry in the end.
Escaping from the real world is not unusual for kids that want to create a better and perfect world for themselves when the one they live in falls apart. Filled with curiosity and wanting to learn more space, Joseph creates his own pictures of the galaxies, the stars and perhaps his own map to freedom if he ever builds a ship to take him to places unknown.
Science seems to be his strong point and although he is so bright you hear his inner most thoughts as he tells part of the story and then we hear Michelle. Visiting her brother Charles , watching the kids swim Michelle is able to share her insecurities, her fears and much more. “Whisper Words of Wisdom,” powerful three words and many different thoughts about what they mean as we learn more about Michelle’s plight here her hopes for a better life and hopefully her words of wisdom will guide Joseph and Pam on the right path but will Bill, her ex-husband ever Let Her Be? Will he stop calling her at work and will he ever get out of her life?
Each character has his/her own distinct voice as their story unfolds, their feelings are shared, and their fears and hopes for the future are just in the distance. Which will win out in the long run?
A letter from her ex-husband weights heavily on her mind where he rips her apart, tries to unleash anger and then hopefully she will fold under the pressure of his words. But, Michelle is strong and her reaction quite unique as she realizes that not all broken hearted as the song says will live in a world and agree.
What makes this novel so unique is that the author allows readers to hear the thoughts of each character. Michelle expresses her feelings about meeting Dan, her inter-office relationships, her spats with her children and her brother coming to the rescue. Next, we learn more about Dan, his feelings for her, his place in the company where she works and his hopes to spend their future together. But, like everything else there has to be one thorn in every rose bush and Bill, her ex-husband does everything in his power to irritate, infuriate and alienate her in every way from those that care for her. On the pretense of trying to repair their damaged marriage, he writes her a long letter, tries to speak to her when picking up the kids but the end result is a violent confrontation and Michelle takes a harder stand. But, Joseph is not happy with his mother’s new found freedom, relationship or even her smile which he seems to resent and what he does next will not only surprise readers but Michelle too.
The sound of music in the car when they go out for McDonalds, the laughter that used fill the air when watching television together and the closeness they once had seems to disappear and the “the light that shines on me, (Michelle) might shine until tomorrow,” if everyone would learn To Let It Be! But, can they? One young man’s decision to take matters in his own hands would prove harmful for more than one person. As his mother’s world fell apart and his part in its demise comes to light we hear from Joseph as when he is much older, when he recounts what happened as a result of his father’s actions, his take on the song Let It Be and the one present that his mother gave him that would change the course of his life. Although their lives seemed to settle back to where they were when they arrived in Amarillo, some specters or shadows linger on and the fear that something would happen would hang over Joseph, along with his guilt like a permanent black storm cloud.
The chapter titled Let It Be allows readers to really hear Joseph’s voice understand his feelings, his relationship with his father and trying to reconcile his thoughts about what happened between his father and Dan. Hoping that his father would no longer be a threat to his family, he hoped to find someone to reassure him.
Events that are related will definitely surprise the reader and what Michelle finally does will change her life forever. Betrayals that she had to find in her heart to forgive, love that came and would always stay within her heart and mind and a family torn apart because one man could not LET IT BE!
Learning more about this song would help me understand this story and the rationale behind why Paul McCartney wrote it and its meaning. “When I find myself in times of trouble, Mother Mary comes to me.” Mary was his mother’s name and speaking words of wisdom: let it be. In a world where there is so much violence, hate and anger and as he states “When all the broken-hearted people living the world agree, there will be an answer, let it be.” Joseph spent many years trying to find his way back into his mother’s heart, understanding his father’s actions and deciding how to reconcile and deal with what he did. When you read that final chapter, hear his voice and learn what happens to Michelle, Joseph, Pam and Dan will wonder if they ever learn as Joseph finally does that the meaning of this song it his mother, what she sacrificed for her family and the final whispered words of wisdom when Michelle realizes that memories are precious and for now she hopes it will be okay to just LET IT BE!
Author Chad Gayle takes us back in time to when this song was written, as someone close to Michelle, presents her with his special disc, helps her to find some peace, understand her future and hopefully embark on a new life. But, the events that are related by this outstanding author in the final chapter remind readers of the love that parents have for their children, their ability to forgive, their understanding of what can and cannot be and the hope that one family can find their way back together. This is a definite must read. The characters are vividly depicted. Both Joseph and Pam’s reactions are true to life and realistic and Michelle’s transformation throughout the novel makes you wonder what is in store for her and her family beyond the words and meaning of : LET IT BE!
Fran Lewis: reviewer
Let It Be: powerful words with multiple meanings behind them. Sometimes life takes people down more than one road. All too often there are obstacles blocking the path and times of darkness as the song says. But, simple actions take on new meanings for Joseph and Pam Jansen as their mother Michelle decides to carve out a new life for them. Texas was where she decided to set up their new home, Amarillo, to be exact. Lacking a college education and the skills for a lucrative paying job, Michelle works hard at just getting anything to support her family on her own. Secretarial and filing would be her responsibilities, reporting to someone that was not exactly understanding of her plight and dealing with an abusive ex-husband bent on making her life even more difficult some people cannot truly as the song says: Let It Be!
Joseph seems to be centered in many different ways. A great son, always looking to help his mom he immerses himself in learning more about the solar system, the cosmos and outer space. Viking missions to Mars, comets, fantastic machines, crystal spires and wanting to explore the outer reaches of space, Joseph seems to be off into his own world in order to hide at times from the one he lives in. Sister Pam, although a smart and helpful young girl, wants some freedom of her own, is supposed to monitor Joseph while Michelle is at work, and manages to break a few rules, speaks her mind only to realize that she is sorry in the end.
Escaping from the real world is not unusual for kids that want to create a better and perfect world for themselves when the one they live in falls apart. Filled with curiosity and wanting to learn more space, Joseph creates his own pictures of the galaxies, the stars and perhaps his own map to freedom if he ever builds a ship to take him to places unknown.
Science seems to be his strong point and although he is so bright you hear his inner most thoughts as he tells part of the story and then we hear Michelle. Visiting her brother Charles , watching the kids swim Michelle is able to share her insecurities, her fears and much more. “Whisper Words of Wisdom,” powerful three words and many different thoughts about what they mean as we learn more about Michelle’s plight here her hopes for a better life and hopefully her words of wisdom will guide Joseph and Pam on the right path but will Bill, her ex-husband ever Let Her Be? Will he stop calling her at work and will he ever get out of her life?
Each character has his/her own distinct voice as their story unfolds, their feelings are shared, and their fears and hopes for the future are just in the distance. Which will win out in the long run?
A letter from her ex-husband weights heavily on her mind where he rips her apart, tries to unleash anger and then hopefully she will fold under the pressure of his words. But, Michelle is strong and her reaction quite unique as she realizes that not all broken hearted as the song says will live in a world and agree.
What makes this novel so unique is that the author allows readers to hear the thoughts of each character. Michelle expresses her feelings about meeting Dan, her inter-office relationships, her spats with her children and her brother coming to the rescue. Next, we learn more about Dan, his feelings for her, his place in the company where she works and his hopes to spend their future together. But, like everything else there has to be one thorn in every rose bush and Bill, her ex-husband does everything in his power to irritate, infuriate and alienate her in every way from those that care for her. On the pretense of trying to repair their damaged marriage, he writes her a long letter, tries to speak to her when picking up the kids but the end result is a violent confrontation and Michelle takes a harder stand. But, Joseph is not happy with his mother’s new found freedom, relationship or even her smile which he seems to resent and what he does next will not only surprise readers but Michelle too.
The sound of music in the car when they go out for McDonalds, the laughter that used fill the air when watching television together and the closeness they once had seems to disappear and the “the light that shines on me, (Michelle) might shine until tomorrow,” if everyone would learn To Let It Be! But, can they? One young man’s decision to take matters in his own hands would prove harmful for more than one person. As his mother’s world fell apart and his part in its demise comes to light we hear from Joseph as when he is much older, when he recounts what happened as a result of his father’s actions, his take on the song Let It Be and the one present that his mother gave him that would change the course of his life. Although their lives seemed to settle back to where they were when they arrived in Amarillo, some specters or shadows linger on and the fear that something would happen would hang over Joseph, along with his guilt like a permanent black storm cloud.
The chapter titled Let It Be allows readers to really hear Joseph’s voice understand his feelings, his relationship with his father and trying to reconcile his thoughts about what happened between his father and Dan. Hoping that his father would no longer be a threat to his family, he hoped to find someone to reassure him.
Events that are related will definitely surprise the reader and what Michelle finally does will change her life forever. Betrayals that she had to find in her heart to forgive, love that came and would always stay within her heart and mind and a family torn apart because one man could not LET IT BE!
Learning more about this song would help me understand this story and the rationale behind why Paul McCartney wrote it and its meaning. “When I find myself in times of trouble, Mother Mary comes to me.” Mary was his mother’s name and speaking words of wisdom: let it be. In a world where there is so much violence, hate and anger and as he states “When all the broken-hearted people living the world agree, there will be an answer, let it be.” Joseph spent many years trying to find his way back into his mother’s heart, understanding his father’s actions and deciding how to reconcile and deal with what he did. When you read that final chapter, hear his voice and learn what happens to Michelle, Joseph, Pam and Dan will wonder if they ever learn as Joseph finally does that the meaning of this song it his mother, what she sacrificed for her family and the final whispered words of wisdom when Michelle realizes that memories are precious and for now she hopes it will be okay to just LET IT BE!
Author Chad Gayle takes us back in time to when this song was written, as someone close to Michelle, presents her with his special disc, helps her to find some peace, understand her future and hopefully embark on a new life. But, the events that are related by this outstanding author in the final chapter remind readers of the love that parents have for their children, their ability to forgive, their understanding of what can and cannot be and the hope that one family can find their way back together. This is a definite must read. The characters are vividly depicted. Both Joseph and Pam’s reactions are true to life and realistic and Michelle’s transformation throughout the novel makes you wonder what is in store for her and her family beyond the words and meaning of : LET IT BE!
Fran Lewis: reviewer
November 26, 2023
A heartfelt read . . .
This was an easy and heartfelt read. I enjoyed and believe others will too. It’s very easily relatable if you’re been through a divorce.
This was an easy and heartfelt read. I enjoyed and believe others will too. It’s very easily relatable if you’re been through a divorce.
June 9, 2013
Let It Be
Chad Gayle
Published by Bracket Books
ISBN-978-0-9886610-0-4
220 pages
Reviewed by Laura Hartman
Genre: Fiction
Michelle leaves her husband for the second time with her son Joseph and daughter Pam. They move to “flat, dry” side of Texas, near her brother, Chuck. Joseph hates the tiny two-bedroom home his mother rents. He hates his sister being in charge during the day while their mother works as a secretary. And most of all he hates being away from his father, Bill.
The days turn into weeks as Pam adjusts after finding a neighborhood girl she can hang out with. Joseph, still unhappy, finds comfort by withdrawing into his room to sketch pictures of superheroes, dinosaurs and the occasional nude. He is biding his time until he can go live with his father.
Bill soon shows his true colors when he comes to pick up the kids for a visit and roughs up Michelle when she angers him. Joseph is too young to understand the implications of his father’s actions; he still hopes and plans to be with his father as soon as possible.
Michelle meets a man that makes her smile again, but Joseph cannot or will not see the reasons why she would leave his father or start dating. The sacrifices she has made to keep her family safe are not yet evident to her youngest child. However, she does what she has to do to keep her family safe and happy, even at her own expense.
Chad Gayle’s debut novel pulls the reader into the lives of Michelle, Pam and Joseph with one of the best opening lines I’ve read, “When my brother was ten years old, he almost killed a man.”. I had to find out how a young boy could almost kill someone. Was it intentional? Was it an accident? But most of all, why?
Gayle masterfully wove the point of view back and forth between his main characters. The chapters are set to the tracks of The Beetles’ Let It Be album. The songs are the soundtrack and salvation of his characters. It was impossible to get McCartney’s voice out of my head as I read this book. References to the lyrics in comparison to the character’s lives made the book deeper and connected me by music to them.
I am looking forward to Gayle’s next novel, wondering if it will be based upon a different album, group, or something entirely different. Either way he has proven to be a writer whose works I want to read more of.
Copyright © 2013 Laura Hartman
DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION: I have a material connection because I received a review copy that I can keep for consideration in preparing to write this content. I was not expected to return this item after my review.
Chad Gayle
Published by Bracket Books
ISBN-978-0-9886610-0-4
220 pages
Reviewed by Laura Hartman
Genre: Fiction
Michelle leaves her husband for the second time with her son Joseph and daughter Pam. They move to “flat, dry” side of Texas, near her brother, Chuck. Joseph hates the tiny two-bedroom home his mother rents. He hates his sister being in charge during the day while their mother works as a secretary. And most of all he hates being away from his father, Bill.
The days turn into weeks as Pam adjusts after finding a neighborhood girl she can hang out with. Joseph, still unhappy, finds comfort by withdrawing into his room to sketch pictures of superheroes, dinosaurs and the occasional nude. He is biding his time until he can go live with his father.
Bill soon shows his true colors when he comes to pick up the kids for a visit and roughs up Michelle when she angers him. Joseph is too young to understand the implications of his father’s actions; he still hopes and plans to be with his father as soon as possible.
Michelle meets a man that makes her smile again, but Joseph cannot or will not see the reasons why she would leave his father or start dating. The sacrifices she has made to keep her family safe are not yet evident to her youngest child. However, she does what she has to do to keep her family safe and happy, even at her own expense.
Chad Gayle’s debut novel pulls the reader into the lives of Michelle, Pam and Joseph with one of the best opening lines I’ve read, “When my brother was ten years old, he almost killed a man.”. I had to find out how a young boy could almost kill someone. Was it intentional? Was it an accident? But most of all, why?
Gayle masterfully wove the point of view back and forth between his main characters. The chapters are set to the tracks of The Beetles’ Let It Be album. The songs are the soundtrack and salvation of his characters. It was impossible to get McCartney’s voice out of my head as I read this book. References to the lyrics in comparison to the character’s lives made the book deeper and connected me by music to them.
I am looking forward to Gayle’s next novel, wondering if it will be based upon a different album, group, or something entirely different. Either way he has proven to be a writer whose works I want to read more of.
Copyright © 2013 Laura Hartman
DISCLOSURE OF MATERIAL CONNECTION: I have a material connection because I received a review copy that I can keep for consideration in preparing to write this content. I was not expected to return this item after my review.
May 12, 2013
This is the debut novel for Chad Gayle, a photographer and write originally from Texas. Let It Be is a complex story of a woman starting over after leaving her volatile husband. Michelle Jansen moves to Amarillo with her children Pam and Joseph. She is starting over, trying to find a job to support herself and the children, while having to continually push away her estranged husband, who is intent on getting her back. When she finally thinks things are going well- a new job, an interesting man- everything falls apart.
What I really enjoyed about this book was the author’s attempt to tie the story into the music of The Beatles, specifically their last album Let It Be. Each chapter is titled after on of the songs on the album, which I found interesting. The only problem was that I didn’t actually know ALL of the songs, so I just had to wing it for the ones I didn’t know. The author wrote the character of Michelle the strongest. I think she was the character I liked best, since I felt I knew who she was and why she did what she did. Joseph, the son, is also well written and defined, but I could not relate with him as well as I could Michelle. She struggled day after day to make a life for her and the kids, knowing it would be easier to give in and return to her husband-easier and wrong. At the end of the story, I was left with this ache of sadness for her, knowing and understanding too well how we make choices and decisions based on our love for our children.
Mr. Gayle’s debut work was a very enjoyable book that I would definitely recommend.
I received this book from Bracket Books in exchange for an honest review.
What I really enjoyed about this book was the author’s attempt to tie the story into the music of The Beatles, specifically their last album Let It Be. Each chapter is titled after on of the songs on the album, which I found interesting. The only problem was that I didn’t actually know ALL of the songs, so I just had to wing it for the ones I didn’t know. The author wrote the character of Michelle the strongest. I think she was the character I liked best, since I felt I knew who she was and why she did what she did. Joseph, the son, is also well written and defined, but I could not relate with him as well as I could Michelle. She struggled day after day to make a life for her and the kids, knowing it would be easier to give in and return to her husband-easier and wrong. At the end of the story, I was left with this ache of sadness for her, knowing and understanding too well how we make choices and decisions based on our love for our children.
Mr. Gayle’s debut work was a very enjoyable book that I would definitely recommend.
I received this book from Bracket Books in exchange for an honest review.
September 16, 2013
I wonder what album my life could be written out to follow?
At first I was not sure that I cared for this book. But as time went on, I grew to enjoy the characters and the authors presentation of them. My least favorite character was the mother who was a victim of abuse and she divorced her husband. The reason why she was my least favorite was because she went on to have a relationship with another man (which was probably started before the separation from her husband). She also tended to favor her daughter Pam. She was not perfect, but who is I suppose?
Pam, the only daughter of Michelle was a regular teenage girl trying to find herself. Her pattern and thoughts were not much in the storyline. I felt like she was just kinda there to hold the pieces together (younger boy not being able to stay home alone while single mom went out to work...so maybe we should add an older sister type of thing).
Joseph was my favorite character. I felt bad for him. Lost. Alone. Escaping into his fictional worlds of books. Trying to please. As well as the fact that his father used him to get information on his mother's boyfriend to do harm. Unspoken guilt, I have no doubt. He confronts his father and tells him that he no longer wants to live with him, so do not try. I honestly think Bill was just using him for a pawn to remain in his ex's life, and that Bill truly did not want custody anyways.
The overall book flows by the Beatle's record of "Let It Be" (hence the title of the book). I am not a Beatle's fan so I cannot comment on the overall record but it was a nice twist to carry out a story for a book.
At first I was not sure that I cared for this book. But as time went on, I grew to enjoy the characters and the authors presentation of them. My least favorite character was the mother who was a victim of abuse and she divorced her husband. The reason why she was my least favorite was because she went on to have a relationship with another man (which was probably started before the separation from her husband). She also tended to favor her daughter Pam. She was not perfect, but who is I suppose?
Pam, the only daughter of Michelle was a regular teenage girl trying to find herself. Her pattern and thoughts were not much in the storyline. I felt like she was just kinda there to hold the pieces together (younger boy not being able to stay home alone while single mom went out to work...so maybe we should add an older sister type of thing).
Joseph was my favorite character. I felt bad for him. Lost. Alone. Escaping into his fictional worlds of books. Trying to please. As well as the fact that his father used him to get information on his mother's boyfriend to do harm. Unspoken guilt, I have no doubt. He confronts his father and tells him that he no longer wants to live with him, so do not try. I honestly think Bill was just using him for a pawn to remain in his ex's life, and that Bill truly did not want custody anyways.
The overall book flows by the Beatle's record of "Let It Be" (hence the title of the book). I am not a Beatle's fan so I cannot comment on the overall record but it was a nice twist to carry out a story for a book.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 14, 2013
Reviewed by Bobbie Grob for Readers’ Favorite
Music is often the backbone of a family, integrally weaved into its history. This is certainly the case for Michelle, a recent divorcee, and her two children, Joseph and Pam in Let It Be by Chad Gayle. The album Let It Be by the Beatles is the music that shapes this family’s lives one summer. As Michelle tries to form a new life with her children outside the sphere of the abusive marriage she left behind, her children likewise fumble through the new territory on which they find themselves. For Pam, a fairly stereotypical thirteen-year-old girl, it is makeup, girlfriends, and teenage rebellion that helps her to find her footing. For Joseph, a ten-year-old boy who still idolizes his father, the peace and familiarity he craves are harder to find.
I thoroughly enjoyed Let It Be. I found the characters to be realistic and relatable, if not always likeable. I became so engrossed in the story the first night I picked it up that I surprised myself by reading half of it in one sitting. I couldn’t wait to see what would become of these characters, and whether their lives would ever straighten out. Let It Be is told in the first-person, which I enjoyed, especially since several characters got to narrate their own chapters. The only thing I was missing was an explanation for why each song connected to each section of the book. I am not familiar with the Let It Be album as a whole, so I would have appreciated song lyrics or some other tie-in to more fully understand why this album was as important as it was.
Music is often the backbone of a family, integrally weaved into its history. This is certainly the case for Michelle, a recent divorcee, and her two children, Joseph and Pam in Let It Be by Chad Gayle. The album Let It Be by the Beatles is the music that shapes this family’s lives one summer. As Michelle tries to form a new life with her children outside the sphere of the abusive marriage she left behind, her children likewise fumble through the new territory on which they find themselves. For Pam, a fairly stereotypical thirteen-year-old girl, it is makeup, girlfriends, and teenage rebellion that helps her to find her footing. For Joseph, a ten-year-old boy who still idolizes his father, the peace and familiarity he craves are harder to find.
I thoroughly enjoyed Let It Be. I found the characters to be realistic and relatable, if not always likeable. I became so engrossed in the story the first night I picked it up that I surprised myself by reading half of it in one sitting. I couldn’t wait to see what would become of these characters, and whether their lives would ever straighten out. Let It Be is told in the first-person, which I enjoyed, especially since several characters got to narrate their own chapters. The only thing I was missing was an explanation for why each song connected to each section of the book. I am not familiar with the Let It Be album as a whole, so I would have appreciated song lyrics or some other tie-in to more fully understand why this album was as important as it was.
November 9, 2013
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of Let It Be through a Goodreads Firstreads Giveaway.
"LET IT BE is a touching tale of loss, longing, and forgiveness that chronicles the breakup of a marriage, the destruction of a family, and the struggle to come together in the aftermath of what remains."
Let It Be chronicles the story of a woman trying to help her family recover from the separation of an abusive husband and father. The story is gripping and emotional and it is really easy to fall in love with all of the characters for their individual struggles and hopes. One of the elements of this novel that makes it unique is that each chapter highlights a different characters perspective. I thought this was a really nice touch and made the story more interesting. Let It Be is named after the famous Beatles album and each chapter within the story is named for a track on the album. There are quite a few references to the album, which I liked but I thought overall did not add much to the story. Overall, I thought this was a well written novel and would recommend it to anyone looking for a quick gripping read.
"LET IT BE is a touching tale of loss, longing, and forgiveness that chronicles the breakup of a marriage, the destruction of a family, and the struggle to come together in the aftermath of what remains."
Let It Be chronicles the story of a woman trying to help her family recover from the separation of an abusive husband and father. The story is gripping and emotional and it is really easy to fall in love with all of the characters for their individual struggles and hopes. One of the elements of this novel that makes it unique is that each chapter highlights a different characters perspective. I thought this was a really nice touch and made the story more interesting. Let It Be is named after the famous Beatles album and each chapter within the story is named for a track on the album. There are quite a few references to the album, which I liked but I thought overall did not add much to the story. Overall, I thought this was a well written novel and would recommend it to anyone looking for a quick gripping read.
August 6, 2015
I thought this book was really good. There were a few spots where I got a bit lost with the switching of points of view, but that could've just been my fluctuating attention span. I really liked the integration of the lyrics into the story line and the very real look at a mother attempting to move on from an abusive marriage. I also liked the "realness" of it. Everything was not tied up in a neat little bow, and that's how it usually is with real life. Very good book with memorable characters - I'd recommend it.
March 18, 2014
I was completely swept away by this book. Could NOT put it down.
Beautifully realized and written story of a divorce, and the frightening ways it causes people to either grow up or stagnate. It's a story about sacrifice and forgiveness and regret.
Each chapter was thoughtfully put together - almost always in one point of view - utilizing a Beatles' song as the title.
Am so glad I bought this book, and I look forward to reading Chad Gayle's next work.
Beautifully realized and written story of a divorce, and the frightening ways it causes people to either grow up or stagnate. It's a story about sacrifice and forgiveness and regret.
Each chapter was thoughtfully put together - almost always in one point of view - utilizing a Beatles' song as the title.
Am so glad I bought this book, and I look forward to reading Chad Gayle's next work.
March 3, 2015
Goodreads winner.
"Let It Be" is both a coming -of -age novel and also an account of how a young family deals with divorce, abuse and violence and the consequences on the lives of all involved. It is a unique narrative in that it is told from the perspectives of a woman and her 2 children. In the end it's a heartbreaking story of a mother's sacrifice of her personal happiness for the love of her children.
"Let It Be" is both a coming -of -age novel and also an account of how a young family deals with divorce, abuse and violence and the consequences on the lives of all involved. It is a unique narrative in that it is told from the perspectives of a woman and her 2 children. In the end it's a heartbreaking story of a mother's sacrifice of her personal happiness for the love of her children.
November 16, 2015
I liked this little book. Michelle is a strong woman, a good mother. Joseph is a young boy, confused about his parents divorce and trying to make the best of things. The story confused me at times, going back and forth in time with different narrators and I was never sure of exactly when the story was taking place. The writing felt a little overdone at times, but it wasn't horrible. I loved that every chapter was the title of a Beatles song. Not a bad read overall, short and sweet.
February 22, 2015
thoughtful, winding road
Shifting characters and points of view, held together by human nature and the Fab Four. Amarillo in the 80's and a story that happens over and over...seems fresh. I really felt with Michelle, her brother, and kids.
Shifting characters and points of view, held together by human nature and the Fab Four. Amarillo in the 80's and a story that happens over and over...seems fresh. I really felt with Michelle, her brother, and kids.
February 17, 2016
A powerful read inspired by The Beatles. Let It Be is my favorite Beatles album and this novel makes interesting parallels to the music.
Read the this novel if you dig The Beatles. An engaging read! Highly recommend for any Beatles fan. Worthwhile read!
Read the this novel if you dig The Beatles. An engaging read! Highly recommend for any Beatles fan. Worthwhile read!
November 1, 2017
I read this book in 2 days. It's an easy read and paints such an honest picture of domestic violence and the repercussions. Despite the heavy topic, the author keeps things fairly light with the exception of a couple scenes.
September 25, 2013
A quick read, with a Beatles music connection, with good story line.
February 16, 2014
Good book, well written. Told through several of the main characters POVs. Sad ending.
February 10, 2015
Good book
Enjoyed the story. Well written. I would recommend this book to my friends to read. The characters were believable and interesting.
Enjoyed the story. Well written. I would recommend this book to my friends to read. The characters were believable and interesting.
February 7, 2015
bittersweet
This was such a thought provoking book. I found it easy to identify with each of the characters in the book.
This was such a thought provoking book. I found it easy to identify with each of the characters in the book.
February 11, 2015
This book was heartbreakingly good. He does a masterful job of telling a story about sensitive and painful issues.
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