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When Love Is All You Have: A Sweet Single Dad Next Door Neighbor Romance
I return to my hometown with only one mission: find the little sister who was torn from my arms ten years ago, no matter the cost.
The last thing I expect is to meet the single dad next door. Cal is rugged, kind, and maddeningly handsome.
He makes me laugh, makes me hope, makes me wonder if maybe I can have more than pain and loss.
Falling for him feels easy. Safe. Right.
Loving his daughter fills the void left by the long years without my sister.
Every moment we spend together pulls me deeper into the possibility of a love I thought I’d never have.
Then, with one kiss, everything comes crashing down.
The scar hidden beneath the tattoo on his arm is the mark I left the morning I lost everything.
The truth hits like a storm: the man I love is the officer who separated me from my sister.
I wanted a future with him.
Instead, I’m left untangling a web of lies, betrayal, and another devastating blow: Cal’s family adopted my sister, while I was left to survive alone, never knowing what had become of the only family I had.
Now I must decide whether I can open my heart and forgive the man tied to my greatest heartbreak or risk losing both love and family forever.
The last thing I expect is to meet the single dad next door. Cal is rugged, kind, and maddeningly handsome.
He makes me laugh, makes me hope, makes me wonder if maybe I can have more than pain and loss.
Falling for him feels easy. Safe. Right.
Loving his daughter fills the void left by the long years without my sister.
Every moment we spend together pulls me deeper into the possibility of a love I thought I’d never have.
Then, with one kiss, everything comes crashing down.
The scar hidden beneath the tattoo on his arm is the mark I left the morning I lost everything.
The truth hits like a storm: the man I love is the officer who separated me from my sister.
I wanted a future with him.
Instead, I’m left untangling a web of lies, betrayal, and another devastating blow: Cal’s family adopted my sister, while I was left to survive alone, never knowing what had become of the only family I had.
Now I must decide whether I can open my heart and forgive the man tied to my greatest heartbreak or risk losing both love and family forever.
- GenresRomance
386 pages, Paperback
Published September 27, 2025
114 people are currently reading
100 people want to read
About the author
Mari Hernan
11 books29 followersMari has always been told she has a way with words, and she decided to put that talent to the test by penning her first book. Her stories delve into the unique journeys couples take to find their happily ever after, capturing the romance, magic and difficult challenges along the way.
Living in the US with her husband, two children, and two dogs, Mari finds joy in cooking, baking, thrift-shopping, crafting, and watercolor painting. An avid reader, she draws inspiration from her favorite authors: Mary Higgins Clark, James Patterson, and Nora Roberts.
Living in the US with her husband, two children, and two dogs, Mari finds joy in cooking, baking, thrift-shopping, crafting, and watercolor painting. An avid reader, she draws inspiration from her favorite authors: Mary Higgins Clark, James Patterson, and Nora Roberts.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
September 16, 2025
ARC review- This is a story that showcases a sister’s love and determination to reconnect with her younger sister after being separated 10 years prior. The plot twist is her sister was adopted by the family of the man she has began dating- who also was one of the officers involved with their separation. It was able to beautifully portray the love the main character never lost for her sister despite all the hardships she endured after their separation. Cal & Elle’s love had many ups and downs considering the circumstances but this book truly shows that ultimately love is all that matters in the end!
September 29, 2025
✅My thoughts:
This is a beautiful story about how strong sibling love can be. And, no matter what, you never give up.
When Love Is All You Have is a very complex story. As you read the story, you will be shaking your head thinking this can’t really be happening or, had happened. Family drama is prominent in so many ways.
This complete story evolves quite slowly….and, once you know exactly what is going on, you will be shocked to say the least.
I thoroughly enjoyed the romance aspect.
Despite so much heartache, peace and happiness can be achieved for those that are persistent.
Ultimately love is all that matters in the end.
Overall, this is a very heartfelt read that definitely will pull on your heartstrings.
http://instagram.com/shortbookthyme
This is a beautiful story about how strong sibling love can be. And, no matter what, you never give up.
When Love Is All You Have is a very complex story. As you read the story, you will be shaking your head thinking this can’t really be happening or, had happened. Family drama is prominent in so many ways.
This complete story evolves quite slowly….and, once you know exactly what is going on, you will be shocked to say the least.
I thoroughly enjoyed the romance aspect.
Despite so much heartache, peace and happiness can be achieved for those that are persistent.
Ultimately love is all that matters in the end.
Overall, this is a very heartfelt read that definitely will pull on your heartstrings.
http://instagram.com/shortbookthyme
December 11, 2025
The story line was good, but there were no details or context. It was just this happened, this happened, they’re in love. no context into their relationship. just jumped from they met, ran some and now they’re in love. Maybe I’m just not a fan of this authors writing style. She lives with Tina and they’ve been friends for years, but she gets embarrassed speaking to Tina about her relationship, about kissing?? They get snippy with each other. The conversations between the two best friends was awkward. She was a nurse too then suddenly she isn’t any more or she’s taken a leave of absence. I have no idea, we were never told what happened there. Meghan’s father just giving her enemy the CEO job? He doesn’t hate his daughter. That would never have happened and no epilogue??? This one needed an epilogue, especially because it isn’t a series?? She obviously alludes that there is going to be more books and I’d like to know what happens, because like I said, the story line is good, but I don’t know if I want to read more of a series with this writing style.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
September 26, 2025
I am part of the ARC team member. Dani and Izzy are in foster care since their parents were killed in a car accident. The latest foster care home is very abusive. In fact the man has hit Dani. Dani has decided that they are going to run away. Catch a bus to their grandfather. The grandfather has said that he did not want the children. On the way to the bus station, a police car comes up behind them ask you what are they doing out this early? The older policeman takes Izzy away from Dani. The younger policeman grabs Dani.She bites, the younger policeman in the wrist enough to draw blood. He releases Dani, who ends up, hitting her head on the concrete and blacks out. The girls are separated. Izzy goes to foster care and Dani goes to a group home.Dani changes her name. She never forgets her sister. She’s always looking for her. She ended up moving back to Madison in my house after her grandfather passed away, leaving the girls his money. This is a good clean book. There are no ugly words or steamy scenes. I do recommend this book. It is easy to read, and I really did not want to put it down.
December 5, 2025
Dani and Caleb's story is beautiful, and tragic, and intense...
Please check content warnings because there is a lot in this story that can be triggering.
I loved how Dani and Caleb started interacting, and I loved watching their relationship grow. And then my heart broke with the truth of their history came out, and the whole story comes together for both of them.
There are SO many emotions, and so much for all the characters to work through. Mari Hernan does an amazing job bringing this story across, and the ending is absolutely beautiful!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Please check content warnings because there is a lot in this story that can be triggering.
I loved how Dani and Caleb started interacting, and I loved watching their relationship grow. And then my heart broke with the truth of their history came out, and the whole story comes together for both of them.
There are SO many emotions, and so much for all the characters to work through. Mari Hernan does an amazing job bringing this story across, and the ending is absolutely beautiful!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 24, 2025
I was lucky to be chosen as an ARC reader, and I loved this story! This book had me from the first chapter! Absolutely loved the FMC and MMC. The heartache and the full story coming out was so well written I thought I was watching it all unfold. I would so love for this story to keep going! I was not ready for this story to end! Excellent read and would recommend to everyone!
September 25, 2025
When Love Is All You Have will have you on an emotional roller coaster from the very beginning all the way through the book. This story touched my heart and reminded me of some of my former students who often took care of their younger siblings in unstable households.
Our story begins ten years ago when Danielle (who also goes by Dani) is quietly trying to get her four-year-old sister awake. It is time for them to leave their current foster home in order to be safe. Dani keeps looking over her shoulder to make sure they aren’t being followed. She spots a police car and her heart sinks. As they continue walking, the officer lowers his window and greets them. He asked where they’re headed, and Dani tells him they’re headed to catch the six o’clock but to Indianapolis. Of course, the officer’s concerned and asked about their parents. She tells him they are dead, hoping he’ll just let them be. They keep walking faster and the officer gets out of the car. There are two officers, and Dani tells Izzy to run. As one of the officers takes Izzy to the patrol car, Dani begs them not to take her sister, and she panics. She sinks her teeth “into the officer’s forearm, biting down hard. I feel the skin tear and the rush of warm blood in my mouth.” The officer’s lets go and she dashes to get Izzy. He pushes her away; her head hits the pavement. As she begins to black out, she notices the name Callahan on his badge.
Time passes, but Dani never gives up on finding Izzy. Dani’s grandfather left her a fortune, and she will never give up the search for her sister. She and her roommate are talking before she leaves for work. Tina mentions meeting their neighbor, who she describes as “Six-foot-three, dark brown hair, perfectly trimmed beard that highlights his strong jawline, a white smile that compels you to smile back, blue eyes that draw you in, and a sexy sleeve tattoo that covers a strong, defined, muscly arm.” Dani catches the hesitation in her voice and Tina says he has a kid. Tina doesn’t get involved with men with kids due to the ex, which means trouble, and she also doesn’t want kids.
Dani (who now goes by Elle) gets ready to go on her run and begins breathing in the morning air before she begins her stretches. When she opens her eyes, she screams. A strange man is standing there. He apologizes for startling her, but he didn’t want to interrupt her meditating or praying. They realize they are neighbors Dani takes an immediate dislike for him. She calls him cocky and arrogant.
Hannah, Cal’s daughter, is spunky and outgoing. She immediately likes Elle the first time they meet. Elle and Cal enjoy their runs together and things are going great. Cal shares with her his ex-wife and her ability to spend money, but doesn’t make time for Hannah and this is a problem for Cal. He wants Hannah to spend time with her mother. I can’t imagine not wanting to spend time with my child(ren). Self-centered and selfish comes to mind when I read about his ex-wife.
When Dani and her sister were trying to get to their grandfather’s house, the two of them were separated. Dani was sent to a facility with a drill sergeant as the director. She was intentionally mean to Dani (Elle, now) and made her life a living hell.
There’s a huge twist in this story and I do not want to give it away. In my opinion, When Love Is All You Have is the best book Mari has written! Do not miss this story that will keep you reading, have your feelings all over the place, have you gasping out loud with the twists, turns, and unexpected surprises that are happening. Get your copy today!
Our story begins ten years ago when Danielle (who also goes by Dani) is quietly trying to get her four-year-old sister awake. It is time for them to leave their current foster home in order to be safe. Dani keeps looking over her shoulder to make sure they aren’t being followed. She spots a police car and her heart sinks. As they continue walking, the officer lowers his window and greets them. He asked where they’re headed, and Dani tells him they’re headed to catch the six o’clock but to Indianapolis. Of course, the officer’s concerned and asked about their parents. She tells him they are dead, hoping he’ll just let them be. They keep walking faster and the officer gets out of the car. There are two officers, and Dani tells Izzy to run. As one of the officers takes Izzy to the patrol car, Dani begs them not to take her sister, and she panics. She sinks her teeth “into the officer’s forearm, biting down hard. I feel the skin tear and the rush of warm blood in my mouth.” The officer’s lets go and she dashes to get Izzy. He pushes her away; her head hits the pavement. As she begins to black out, she notices the name Callahan on his badge.
Time passes, but Dani never gives up on finding Izzy. Dani’s grandfather left her a fortune, and she will never give up the search for her sister. She and her roommate are talking before she leaves for work. Tina mentions meeting their neighbor, who she describes as “Six-foot-three, dark brown hair, perfectly trimmed beard that highlights his strong jawline, a white smile that compels you to smile back, blue eyes that draw you in, and a sexy sleeve tattoo that covers a strong, defined, muscly arm.” Dani catches the hesitation in her voice and Tina says he has a kid. Tina doesn’t get involved with men with kids due to the ex, which means trouble, and she also doesn’t want kids.
Dani (who now goes by Elle) gets ready to go on her run and begins breathing in the morning air before she begins her stretches. When she opens her eyes, she screams. A strange man is standing there. He apologizes for startling her, but he didn’t want to interrupt her meditating or praying. They realize they are neighbors Dani takes an immediate dislike for him. She calls him cocky and arrogant.
Hannah, Cal’s daughter, is spunky and outgoing. She immediately likes Elle the first time they meet. Elle and Cal enjoy their runs together and things are going great. Cal shares with her his ex-wife and her ability to spend money, but doesn’t make time for Hannah and this is a problem for Cal. He wants Hannah to spend time with her mother. I can’t imagine not wanting to spend time with my child(ren). Self-centered and selfish comes to mind when I read about his ex-wife.
When Dani and her sister were trying to get to their grandfather’s house, the two of them were separated. Dani was sent to a facility with a drill sergeant as the director. She was intentionally mean to Dani (Elle, now) and made her life a living hell.
There’s a huge twist in this story and I do not want to give it away. In my opinion, When Love Is All You Have is the best book Mari has written! Do not miss this story that will keep you reading, have your feelings all over the place, have you gasping out loud with the twists, turns, and unexpected surprises that are happening. Get your copy today!
September 22, 2025
***ARC Review***
Ok, this is heartbreaking, and my own personal belief system would make the actions of the adults around them unforgivable.
Who separates two children, allowing for the adoption of one, and leaving the other to go into foster care? I get this happens in real life, but… I cannot believe in the ‘goodness’ of any person that does this.
I had so many moments that I was appalled….
There are betrayals, upon betrayals, upon betrayals and I truly don’t know how they could find their way past it. Dani “Elle” was a 14 year old, and she had so many adults around her betraying her, and once she finds out a key one, it’s a hard one to get past.
There were moments that I really didn’t like Cal.
“If she wanted to see me,” I continue, “she would've joined us for Thanksgiving dinner. I was the one who reached out and personally invited her. She said she had plans. She didn’t show up because she didn’t want to be anywhere near me.”
“She didn’t come because she and Tina spent the whole day at a soup kitchen,” Beth says. “They were handing out meals, coats, and toys to people who didn’t have anywhere else to go. Women, kids... people sleeping in shelters and tents.” She pauses, then continues, “You know Elle aged out of the system, right? The day she turned eighteen, Meghan kicked her out of the group home with nothing but a scholarship and the clothes on her back. No money. No plan. No family.”
Dani/Elle is dealing with serious trauma from actions that he kickstarted and unknowingly perpetuated, and all he’s focused on is how she’s not telling him or focusing on him. I just feel that he’s being selfish.
"I wish Elle would talk to me and open up the way she does with you," I say. "I want to be there for her. I want her to trust me. But honestly, I feel like Elle's resentment—toward me, and the whole situation with you, her, and Meghan—is stronger than any love we might feel for each other."
Thankfully, the atrociousness ended relatively pain free and we moved back into a beautiful relationship build, but ex-wife drama makes it appearance. I was absolutely cackling at her comeuppance. Well played.
So… despite my rage moments, this was a truly wonderful book. Heartbreak in the opening pages, anguish, angst, drama (so much drama), and finally a found family that you can really root for.
Ok, this is heartbreaking, and my own personal belief system would make the actions of the adults around them unforgivable.
Who separates two children, allowing for the adoption of one, and leaving the other to go into foster care? I get this happens in real life, but… I cannot believe in the ‘goodness’ of any person that does this.
I had so many moments that I was appalled….
There are betrayals, upon betrayals, upon betrayals and I truly don’t know how they could find their way past it. Dani “Elle” was a 14 year old, and she had so many adults around her betraying her, and once she finds out a key one, it’s a hard one to get past.
There were moments that I really didn’t like Cal.
“If she wanted to see me,” I continue, “she would've joined us for Thanksgiving dinner. I was the one who reached out and personally invited her. She said she had plans. She didn’t show up because she didn’t want to be anywhere near me.”
“She didn’t come because she and Tina spent the whole day at a soup kitchen,” Beth says. “They were handing out meals, coats, and toys to people who didn’t have anywhere else to go. Women, kids... people sleeping in shelters and tents.” She pauses, then continues, “You know Elle aged out of the system, right? The day she turned eighteen, Meghan kicked her out of the group home with nothing but a scholarship and the clothes on her back. No money. No plan. No family.”
Dani/Elle is dealing with serious trauma from actions that he kickstarted and unknowingly perpetuated, and all he’s focused on is how she’s not telling him or focusing on him. I just feel that he’s being selfish.
"I wish Elle would talk to me and open up the way she does with you," I say. "I want to be there for her. I want her to trust me. But honestly, I feel like Elle's resentment—toward me, and the whole situation with you, her, and Meghan—is stronger than any love we might feel for each other."
Thankfully, the atrociousness ended relatively pain free and we moved back into a beautiful relationship build, but ex-wife drama makes it appearance. I was absolutely cackling at her comeuppance. Well played.
So… despite my rage moments, this was a truly wonderful book. Heartbreak in the opening pages, anguish, angst, drama (so much drama), and finally a found family that you can really root for.
November 11, 2025
Finding Family
Elle has been trying to find her sister Izzy for ten years. They were torn apart by a policeman and placed in foster care. Elle was placed in a group home where she treated horribly by Meghan, the director. The Callahan family adopted Izzy and wanted to adopt Elle. Meghan convinced them that Elle was a behavioral problem, angry and violent. Later she said Elle ran away. All of it was a lie. At 18 she was pushed out of the system. She went to college in a scholarship and after she inherited a substantial sum from her grandfather 's inheritance she bought a beautiful house and she and her best friend Tina lived there. Elle met their neighbor Cal and sometimes ran with in the morning. She met Hannah his adorable daughter. Cal made it clear from the start that he was attracted to her. But Cal had a secret. He was the cop that took her sister away. And then his family was the one who adopted her and changed her name to Beth Callahan. When Elle found all that from a private investigator report, she told Cal that she hated him and wanted nothing to do with him. He was heartbroken,but he understood why. When his parents heard that Beth's sister was his neighbor they came to visit and explain that they tried to adopt her too. She hadn't received any of the letters they sent or Beth's pictures. Cal went to the group home and with the maintenance man's help got a box of Elle's things that were in the attic. Inside were all the letters, pictures, and cards untouched. Meghan hadn't given any of it to her. Cal was so angry because Meghan was his ex wife and he knew just how shallow and manipulative she was. But to think she had lied to his family for the four years they tried to adopt Elle was unforgivable. Elle decided to fight back by donating a large amount of money to the group home and the coming to a board meeting with her lawyer to lay out the case of Meghan's lies and manipulation of her records. As a result, Meghan was fired. This is a great book of everything that seems so wrong all working together to be so good. The Callahan family include Elle as one of them and she finally has the family she always dreamed of. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It's great to have a happily ever after sometimes.
Elle has been trying to find her sister Izzy for ten years. They were torn apart by a policeman and placed in foster care. Elle was placed in a group home where she treated horribly by Meghan, the director. The Callahan family adopted Izzy and wanted to adopt Elle. Meghan convinced them that Elle was a behavioral problem, angry and violent. Later she said Elle ran away. All of it was a lie. At 18 she was pushed out of the system. She went to college in a scholarship and after she inherited a substantial sum from her grandfather 's inheritance she bought a beautiful house and she and her best friend Tina lived there. Elle met their neighbor Cal and sometimes ran with in the morning. She met Hannah his adorable daughter. Cal made it clear from the start that he was attracted to her. But Cal had a secret. He was the cop that took her sister away. And then his family was the one who adopted her and changed her name to Beth Callahan. When Elle found all that from a private investigator report, she told Cal that she hated him and wanted nothing to do with him. He was heartbroken,but he understood why. When his parents heard that Beth's sister was his neighbor they came to visit and explain that they tried to adopt her too. She hadn't received any of the letters they sent or Beth's pictures. Cal went to the group home and with the maintenance man's help got a box of Elle's things that were in the attic. Inside were all the letters, pictures, and cards untouched. Meghan hadn't given any of it to her. Cal was so angry because Meghan was his ex wife and he knew just how shallow and manipulative she was. But to think she had lied to his family for the four years they tried to adopt Elle was unforgivable. Elle decided to fight back by donating a large amount of money to the group home and the coming to a board meeting with her lawyer to lay out the case of Meghan's lies and manipulation of her records. As a result, Meghan was fired. This is a great book of everything that seems so wrong all working together to be so good. The Callahan family include Elle as one of them and she finally has the family she always dreamed of. I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It's great to have a happily ever after sometimes.
September 26, 2025
LOVE & PAIN & A HAPPY ENDING
WOW, the introduction information got me from the start and I just had to read this book !! What a great premise ! I do have to admit that I got confused a bit in the beginning because the time line between when Lizzie was taken and when it looked like she might have been found after almost 10 years. It took a bit but then it became really clear and I really got into their stories. Cal has his point of view. Hannah is a darling child. Hannah's mother definitely was a cold fish, looking out for herself only. She caused a lot of damage to others. Elle/Dani suffered the most as a teenager under her watch in the group home that Meghan ran. She stole ten years of Dani's life with her cruelty. But, oh there is some long awaited comeuppance coming her way. Her father Vincent was quick the delightful surprise. Elle's best friend, Tina seems to think so too. She in a hate/attraction with Cal's brother Nate and he feels the same. Leads to some interesting, funny sparks!
Cal's family brought pretty of surprises. Ones that made me both cry and smile. Lizzie is now Beth Calhoun, adopted by Cal's parents in a closed adoption. You can imagine the pain that caused when Elle/Dani finds out that truth.
It's a great story with a beautiful Epilogue! The title of this eBook made total sense as I read the story and brought tears and smiles to my face. Great eBook cover as well !
WOW, the introduction information got me from the start and I just had to read this book !! What a great premise ! I do have to admit that I got confused a bit in the beginning because the time line between when Lizzie was taken and when it looked like she might have been found after almost 10 years. It took a bit but then it became really clear and I really got into their stories. Cal has his point of view. Hannah is a darling child. Hannah's mother definitely was a cold fish, looking out for herself only. She caused a lot of damage to others. Elle/Dani suffered the most as a teenager under her watch in the group home that Meghan ran. She stole ten years of Dani's life with her cruelty. But, oh there is some long awaited comeuppance coming her way. Her father Vincent was quick the delightful surprise. Elle's best friend, Tina seems to think so too. She in a hate/attraction with Cal's brother Nate and he feels the same. Leads to some interesting, funny sparks!
Cal's family brought pretty of surprises. Ones that made me both cry and smile. Lizzie is now Beth Calhoun, adopted by Cal's parents in a closed adoption. You can imagine the pain that caused when Elle/Dani finds out that truth.
It's a great story with a beautiful Epilogue! The title of this eBook made total sense as I read the story and brought tears and smiles to my face. Great eBook cover as well !
September 17, 2025
This novel is a heartfelt story that balances family drama with romance.
The plot moves with steady focus, centring on Elle’s search for her sister while she builds a fragile new life.
The story’s greatest strength lies in its emotional drive. Elle’s bond with Cal’s daughter Hannah feels natural. The gradual romance between Elle and Cal is convincing, rooted in shared pain and hard-won trust.
The characters are well-drawn. Elle is determined yet vulnerable, while Cal is protective but flawed. Their past connection adds depth and tension.
Secondary figures, such as Tina and Mick Dawson, enrich the story without distracting from the central arc.
The writing style is clear and direct, with dialogue carrying much of the weight.
The pacing keeps the reader engaged, but cutting the repetition of internal feelings in some sections would strengthen the impact.
Recommended for readers who enjoy romance tied to family struggles and stories about healing from loss.
The plot moves with steady focus, centring on Elle’s search for her sister while she builds a fragile new life.
The story’s greatest strength lies in its emotional drive. Elle’s bond with Cal’s daughter Hannah feels natural. The gradual romance between Elle and Cal is convincing, rooted in shared pain and hard-won trust.
The characters are well-drawn. Elle is determined yet vulnerable, while Cal is protective but flawed. Their past connection adds depth and tension.
Secondary figures, such as Tina and Mick Dawson, enrich the story without distracting from the central arc.
The writing style is clear and direct, with dialogue carrying much of the weight.
The pacing keeps the reader engaged, but cutting the repetition of internal feelings in some sections would strengthen the impact.
Recommended for readers who enjoy romance tied to family struggles and stories about healing from loss.
September 21, 2025
This is an emotional story of sisters in foster care. Dani and Izzy are wards of the state after their parents die in a car accident. Their grandfather won't take them and 10-year-old Dani cares for 4-year-old Izzy. When she tries to run from an abusive foster home, she is stopped by the police who take Izzy from her. Years later, she finds out that the man she is dating is the cop who helped take Izzy away. In her pain, she doesn't see the good life that Izzy has been given. She just wants to get her back. The lies told by the director of the facility Dani was sent to is horrifying. The eventual grace that Dani shows is testament to making sure no other child had to endure what she did. I found this to be a unfortunate picture of what the wards of the state really have to endure. Kudos for a wonderful depiction of how hard this life can be. I received an advanced reader copy of this book from BookSprout, and this is my honest review.
September 14, 2025
I received and arc of this book.
Mari Hernan is a new author to me. This book has me wanting more! I hope you write Nate and Tina’s story next!
Synopsis:
“When Love Is All You Need” is emotionally charged! This is a story of two sisters torn apart,only to rediscover each other ten years later through the most unlikely connection—an older sister’s blossoming romance with the younger sister’s adopted brother.
The book beautifully balances heartbreak and hope. The older sister, burdened by years of missing and searching for her younger sister who was torn from her. She moves back to the last place she saw her and finds new love. Only for things to get complicated. With this new love she gets not only passion but also a chance at belonging to a real family. Yet, that joy is tangled with pain and secrets.
Mari Hernan is a new author to me. This book has me wanting more! I hope you write Nate and Tina’s story next!
Synopsis:
“When Love Is All You Need” is emotionally charged! This is a story of two sisters torn apart,only to rediscover each other ten years later through the most unlikely connection—an older sister’s blossoming romance with the younger sister’s adopted brother.
The book beautifully balances heartbreak and hope. The older sister, burdened by years of missing and searching for her younger sister who was torn from her. She moves back to the last place she saw her and finds new love. Only for things to get complicated. With this new love she gets not only passion but also a chance at belonging to a real family. Yet, that joy is tangled with pain and secrets.
September 23, 2025
I found this story a little overwhelming with what I can imagine is a heartbreaking narrative and realistic narrative of the lives of orphans. Due to how it made me feel, I found it difficult to continue at points and therefore I struggled to read it in its entirety. Not through any fault of the author. This is an emotionally intense story of loss, forgiveness and to a certain extent revenge. There is a lot of pain expressed and whilst the author tries to focus on the romance, it didn't have that shine that most novels have. The hidden connections and way some of the characters behaved was hard to deal with and in some respects reflects real life. Recommended if you like emotionally intense and can deal with the abandonment and heartfelt horror of the female main characters experiences.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
November 20, 2025
This book was just the break I needed from the suspense and mystery I read in the last week. I could sit back and relax while I soaked up the love after the heartache. Mari Herman could have ended this book in a few places, but I was glad she didn't. I wasn't sure how she was going to keep me stuck between the pages, but she pulled out some awesome scenes to keep me going.
When two sisters are separated while in the foster system, a copy and ten years later help bring them back to the same town and helps to unravel the time gone as well as the circumstances and to find the culprit who meets karma.
A new to me author who drew me down the rabbit hole, that I've now purchased the first book in the series as well.
When two sisters are separated while in the foster system, a copy and ten years later help bring them back to the same town and helps to unravel the time gone as well as the circumstances and to find the culprit who meets karma.
A new to me author who drew me down the rabbit hole, that I've now purchased the first book in the series as well.
September 27, 2025
Wow! This was such a fantastic journey to follow. Cal and Danielle were the best! This book was an emotional whirlwind full of laughter, emotional turmoil, reckoning, and so much love. It wouldn't be right to not mention Hannah, Cal's daughter. She was pure joy with so much love to give. She was the heart ❤️ All the other characters in the book were absolutely amazing. Cal's parents were very special, neat people. And Tina, Danielle's best friend, was more a sister than friend. Everyone needs a Tina in their life! This book just hit everything i love in a book. I just wished there was an epilogue. It was over too quick and I want to know what happens later in life for them!
September 17, 2025
I received this as an ARC in exchange for a fair and honest review.
There was a lot of drama at the start... though I do wish there was a bit more filled in about the girls history.
From about 40% off the way through the book to about 85%, I was waiting for the badness to drop ruining the good juju that they had and tearing off the neatly tied bows of the story. It felt like it was too early in the book for so much good to be going on.
As a whole the story is very wholesome and sweet.
The ending though...? Chefs kiss!
There was a lot of drama at the start... though I do wish there was a bit more filled in about the girls history.
From about 40% off the way through the book to about 85%, I was waiting for the badness to drop ruining the good juju that they had and tearing off the neatly tied bows of the story. It felt like it was too early in the book for so much good to be going on.
As a whole the story is very wholesome and sweet.
The ending though...? Chefs kiss!
September 26, 2025
This is a very emotional story, filled with jealousy, heartbreak, love and reunion. Dani (aka Elle) is a very strong woman who has gone through trauma and sadness but doesn’t let that stop her. Discovering Cal is the police officer from her past devastates her. I love her responses to Meghan, especially she could have pursued criminal charges. I do wish the scene in the boardroom would have been a little longer and more detailed. Wonderful story.
I received this book from the author and this is my voluntary, honest review.
I received this book from the author and this is my voluntary, honest review.
September 27, 2025
This book was so good. It had me in my feelings from beginning to end. I now want to know it Tina stays with Vince or if she goes to Nate. But I am happy Elle got her HEA as well as justice for what the system failed to provide for her. I feel for Elle, my older sisters mom moved away with my sister when I was young to get back at my dad because he would not leave my mom, me, and brother to be with her. I was not able to find my sister until we were both adults. I didn't get to grow up with her like I wish we could have.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 31, 2025
This is a book of two halves. The first half was sooooo good, really well written and emotionally intense. Unfortunately the second half felt under developed and fell flat and there was so much missing context.
The characters moved forward, but I felt that there were missed opportunities and the plot went off course and threads of the story just fell apart. It’s like the author didn’t know which way to turn and got lost with the characters and couldn’t quite get it right to make the story cohesive. It was frustrating as the first half was a five star read.
The characters moved forward, but I felt that there were missed opportunities and the plot went off course and threads of the story just fell apart. It’s like the author didn’t know which way to turn and got lost with the characters and couldn’t quite get it right to make the story cohesive. It was frustrating as the first half was a five star read.
September 18, 2025
I was an ARC reader for this book and I could not put it down! FMC had a crappy childhood, foster care and then be split up from her baby sister after raising her. As an adult, she makes something of herself and goes back to find her sister. I was not prepared for what she learned actually happened and how it involves the MMC. Despite all the heartache, this is one of the sweetest stories I have ever read!! Sooooo freakin good!
September 22, 2025
I received an ARC of this book and DEVOURED it in just over 36 hours. It was so good. I didn’t want to put it down and I didn’t want it to end. It’s such a wholesome and encouraging story. I think I just found my new favorite author because I couldn’t get enough of this story. I really hope we get a series about this family. I’d love to see what happens with Beth, Nate, Tina, Elle, Cal, Hannah, & even Meaghan (even though I can’t stand her).
September 24, 2025
This book was so good. It kept me engaged and wanting to know what happens next. I did not want to put it down till I was done. The characters were great and I am hoping Mari will continue because I would love to know what happens to Elle’s best friend. The love story was so sweet but real because it has its ups and downs that needed to be faced and dealt with. It started great and ended great and that is the best kind. Most definitely worth the read.
September 25, 2025
Danielle and her sister were raised in foster homes where one encounter separated them. She never forgot her baby sister and when her grandfather left everything to her after his death, she went all out to find her sister never expecting that the man she had grown to love will be the very kept to their reunion. This compelling story had my heart tied in knots.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
September 21, 2025
I received an ARC of this book to review. Wow. I loved every second of this book. Seeing the protectiveness of Dani for Izzy even as they’ve become older as Elle and Beth was beautiful. I loved the family dynamics in the Callahans. I also loved every second of the romance between Cal and Elle as well as the relationship that grew between Elle and Hannah.
September 22, 2025
Absolutely LOVED this book....the amount of times my jaw was hanging open, the tears, the giggles just hands down all of it was fantastic. and the ending! OMG....I can't LOL....I NEED more and I need a sequel to this book like yesterday! I read it in less than 24 hours and I wish i could read it again for the first time!
September 25, 2025
This was a beautiful book. The story goes into more depth than Mari Hernan's other excellent books, and that made this book her best yet. I'm very glad that I read it, and I recommend it to anyone who is looking for a story that will draw you in and have you cheering for (almost) everyone. The ending is fabulous--I actually cheered out loud in an empty room!
September 28, 2025
This book has so many twists in different places the first 30 percent of this book had me bawling my eyes out and different chapters. I only saw one twists coming but others wow . This book has very relatable characters that you fall in love with and keep rooting for and a few that you can’t wait till they get put in their place and it all falls together so perfectly it’s a very good book.
October 1, 2025
This book was a delightful page-turner! The plot unfolded smoothly, making it a breeze to follow along. I absolutely loved the way tension and passion simmered between the characters—there were no over-the-top spicy scenes, just perfectly crafted moments that kept me on the edge of my seat. What an exhilarating read!
January 16, 2026
Absolutely love this book. Mari brings her characters to life and makes you feel like you are in the book. This is my first time reading her books but it won’t be my last. I highly recommend if you are looking for a realistic fiction book that you will remember the characters after you finish the book and actually miss them.
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