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River Bend #5
Can't Let Go
Everyone has a secret…
Reed Fletcher has spent years perfecting his reputation as River Bend’s most shameless player. Don’t confuse him with a heartless asshole—he’s just honest about what he wants and he’ll do anything to get it. Being born under less than perfect circumstances has given him no other choice.
Everyone has a story…
Mia Carderas has used her sweet and sexy demeanor to get everything she could possibly want out of life. Or so she lets everyone believe. When her father falls ill back home, that carefully constructed façade begins to crack. The only way to keep it together is to accept help from a former friend…and more recent lover. A man who knows more than he should—a man who could ruin it all if she isn’t careful.
Reed Fletcher has spent years perfecting his reputation as River Bend’s most shameless player. Don’t confuse him with a heartless asshole—he’s just honest about what he wants and he’ll do anything to get it. Being born under less than perfect circumstances has given him no other choice.
Everyone has a story…
Mia Carderas has used her sweet and sexy demeanor to get everything she could possibly want out of life. Or so she lets everyone believe. When her father falls ill back home, that carefully constructed façade begins to crack. The only way to keep it together is to accept help from a former friend…and more recent lover. A man who knows more than he should—a man who could ruin it all if she isn’t careful.
294 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 16, 2017
74 people are currently reading
442 people want to read
About the author
Molly McLain
43 books1,245 followersAuthor of sexy, small town romance. Lover of banana Laffy Taffy, 80's ballads, 90's rock, and road trips. Location: Wisconsin. Sign: Sagittarius. Religion: Coffee and naps.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 82 reviews
December 4, 2017
Wow...
Never, I mean, NEVER did I think I’d like Reed after everything we’ve seen from him in the rest of the series, specially considering my personal aversion to manwhores (and we all know he was the very definition of the word), but my God, did he do a one eighty after meeting Mia again after more than a decade of separation!
Sure, I could have gone without knowing they had feelings for each other of that magnitude and his attitude in their past, but they were kids, and the author explains it perfectly in a way that didn’t make me twitchy! Mia and Reed really did a lot a background childhood history. Plus given how much LOVE, devotion, adoration and LOYALTY, he showed towards her since he’s seen her again, he ended up stealing a piece of my black heart! He was absolutely fantastic in the present! It was an amazing story and couple to read about, and surprisingly, one of Fav of the River Bend! <3 <3 <3 <3
Never, I mean, NEVER did I think I’d like Reed after everything we’ve seen from him in the rest of the series, specially considering my personal aversion to manwhores (and we all know he was the very definition of the word), but my God, did he do a one eighty after meeting Mia again after more than a decade of separation!
Sure, I could have gone without knowing they had feelings for each other of that magnitude and his attitude in their past, but they were kids, and the author explains it perfectly in a way that didn’t make me twitchy! Mia and Reed really did a lot a background childhood history. Plus given how much LOVE, devotion, adoration and LOYALTY, he showed towards her since he’s seen her again, he ended up stealing a piece of my black heart! He was absolutely fantastic in the present! It was an amazing story and couple to read about, and surprisingly, one of Fav of the River Bend! <3 <3 <3 <3
November 9, 2019
Doormat heroine.
Everything was glossed over including his 15 years or so of sleazbag manwhoring and being in love with OW including ones the heroine would have to be friends with now too as they were still in his inner circle. Yuck.
And they were NOT kids when they last saw each other - They were 20 years old. Not kids at all. Reed had already hurt her plenty even by then by not having her back with the mean girls and guys who were his friends and were assholes to her in high school and beyond, and also by screwing other girls and taking them out while she was in love with him. And by not being her so called 'best friend" when she needed him. For pity's sake she left town and avoided coming back for 12 years because of how they treated her and him constantly being with other girls rather than her. But ALL of that heartache was conveniently glossed over. All of it.
The author did not sell me on his "love" at all. All of a sudden he was "in love with her" eye roll, after living very VERY happily without her for 12 years, yeah I call bullshit. This one was a bust for me.
Yeah he's not with OW in this book but quite frankly he had no one else left to sleep with, he'd slept his way through the whole town and beyond!! the heroine at least wasn't celibate but yep you guessed it, her sexual experience wasn't positive unlike all of his.
Everything was glossed over including his 15 years or so of sleazbag manwhoring and being in love with OW including ones the heroine would have to be friends with now too as they were still in his inner circle. Yuck.
And they were NOT kids when they last saw each other - They were 20 years old. Not kids at all. Reed had already hurt her plenty even by then by not having her back with the mean girls and guys who were his friends and were assholes to her in high school and beyond, and also by screwing other girls and taking them out while she was in love with him. And by not being her so called 'best friend" when she needed him. For pity's sake she left town and avoided coming back for 12 years because of how they treated her and him constantly being with other girls rather than her. But ALL of that heartache was conveniently glossed over. All of it.
The author did not sell me on his "love" at all. All of a sudden he was "in love with her" eye roll, after living very VERY happily without her for 12 years, yeah I call bullshit. This one was a bust for me.
Yeah he's not with OW in this book but quite frankly he had no one else left to sleep with, he'd slept his way through the whole town and beyond!! the heroine at least wasn't celibate but yep you guessed it, her sexual experience wasn't positive unlike all of his.
June 17, 2017
Molly McLain's best book yet!
I've read every book that Molly McLain has published and enjoyed them all but Can't Let Go is her best one yet, in my opinion. We've waited about 2 years for Reed's story in her River Bend series and OMG – it was worth the wait.
I love books that bring me to tears – be they sad or happy ones – it means an author has engaged my emotions and that's why I read. Can't Let Go might be the most romantic and emotional book I've read so far this year; it's definitely in the top 5. You don’t need to have read any of the other River Bend stories before you read this one (it really does standalone) but if you love reading series in order as much as I do you might consider starting at the beginning.
Reed Fletcher has sampled a lot of ladies and it's earned him the kind of reputation he's not really proud of now that he's more mature. Mia has always been special to him but they never really got together until that one night when she needed him and he discovered he also needed her.
This book has so many wonderful lines and Reed turned out to be one of the most romantic of the River Bend men. Below are a few of my favorite quotes.
Reed to Mia in a note:
Reed to Mia's father:
And one more, Reed to Mia:
Reed and Mia have to overcome a lot of things in their journey to HEA but it's so worth it. Molly left a few breadcrumbs throughout the story so I can't say that I was totally shocked when certain things came out but I wasn't really expecting Reed's reaction. Sorry that I won't say more – I don't do spoilers – you'll have to read this wonderful story for yourself.
Molly, you might have struggled a bit to get the story told but let me tell you, as a long-time reader of your books I think it was well worth it.
I've read every book that Molly McLain has published and enjoyed them all but Can't Let Go is her best one yet, in my opinion. We've waited about 2 years for Reed's story in her River Bend series and OMG – it was worth the wait.
I love books that bring me to tears – be they sad or happy ones – it means an author has engaged my emotions and that's why I read. Can't Let Go might be the most romantic and emotional book I've read so far this year; it's definitely in the top 5. You don’t need to have read any of the other River Bend stories before you read this one (it really does standalone) but if you love reading series in order as much as I do you might consider starting at the beginning.
Reed Fletcher has sampled a lot of ladies and it's earned him the kind of reputation he's not really proud of now that he's more mature. Mia has always been special to him but they never really got together until that one night when she needed him and he discovered he also needed her.
This book has so many wonderful lines and Reed turned out to be one of the most romantic of the River Bend men. Below are a few of my favorite quotes.
Reed to Mia in a note:
Dear Mia,
You’re my favorite memory from the past...
The most exciting part of my present...
And the only woman I want in my future.
Can’t wait to begin this journey with you.
Love always,
Reed
Reed to Mia's father:
“I have to thank you for bringing her into my life, Jose. Or rather, letting me into hers when you hired my mother at the diner. You didn’t have to take me under your wing and let me into your family, but you did.” A lump lodged in his throat and when he spoke again, his voice cracked. “You and Stella loved me and now I hope you can trust me enough to love your little girl.”
And one more, Reed to Mia:
“Mia, I’m in love with you. Have been for years, if the ache in my chest when you’re around means anything.” He glanced down, swallowed hard, and opened himself wide. “I’ve said those words before when I didn’t mean them and, for that, I’m sorry. Because those words are yours, baby. I’m yours.”
Reed and Mia have to overcome a lot of things in their journey to HEA but it's so worth it. Molly left a few breadcrumbs throughout the story so I can't say that I was totally shocked when certain things came out but I wasn't really expecting Reed's reaction. Sorry that I won't say more – I don't do spoilers – you'll have to read this wonderful story for yourself.
Molly, you might have struggled a bit to get the story told but let me tell you, as a long-time reader of your books I think it was well worth it.
July 12, 2017
Received an Advanced Review from Author for my fair review. Again, another emotional read, but wow it was great, and what an ending to a series, we waited for Reed, and Molly sure did bring it..So this can be read as a standalone, but if you are like me, I like to start from the beginning to know who is who. Reed is known as a playboy, and he is so different in this book and that reputation and the way he is with Mia, oh, he is so sweet and wonderful. And, then there is Mia, she has some really heartwrenching scenes dealing with her dad, and remembering the past and how she was bullied, from some of the people we know and loved, but they are not those, same ones now. I implore you, to not sit back and wait, read it.
June 18, 2017
Can't Let Go by Molly McLain is the next in the River Bend Series but can absolutely be read as a standalone. The story of Reed and Mia is one that started when they were children and took a hiatus of twelve years before it picked right back up again. A love story that succumbs all the obstacles in its way and has the characters finding each other in spite of them.
Mia left home long ago to make something of herself and refused to return home to River Bend. She sold her soul to corporate America in order to have the capital to fund her non-profit organization and it are at her a little more everyday. After finding her partner and fiancé having sex with his secretary, she knows walking away from the business and personal partnership is what needs to be done. But can she?
Reed has known Mia since they were children. He has loved her his whole life, but when she wanted to be with him, he wasn't ready and pushed her away. When they meet again at a business function, all of the old feelings surface and come to a head. Mia knows she probably won't see Reed again. Or will she?
Mia gets news that her father had a stroke and rushes to the place she hasn't returned to in over a decade. What awaits her isn't what she left behind, but family with friends that become family and of course love.
3 stars
Mia left home long ago to make something of herself and refused to return home to River Bend. She sold her soul to corporate America in order to have the capital to fund her non-profit organization and it are at her a little more everyday. After finding her partner and fiancé having sex with his secretary, she knows walking away from the business and personal partnership is what needs to be done. But can she?
Reed has known Mia since they were children. He has loved her his whole life, but when she wanted to be with him, he wasn't ready and pushed her away. When they meet again at a business function, all of the old feelings surface and come to a head. Mia knows she probably won't see Reed again. Or will she?
Mia gets news that her father had a stroke and rushes to the place she hasn't returned to in over a decade. What awaits her isn't what she left behind, but family with friends that become family and of course love.
3 stars
June 19, 2017
Dnf - 37%
June 17, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed an Advance Reader Copy of this book.
I am a BIG fan of this series and this is the book and story I have been waiting for YEARS!! And does it live up to my expectations YES!!! So much. I loved Reed and Mia's love story. It really had everything laughter, tears, and we catch up with all our favorite characters.
This story starts 9/10 months before the main story starts. It is a night that Mia will never forget and neither will Reed. They see each other after not seeing each other since age 18 and it was a very HOT night if you know what I mean.
Then the story starts 9 months later when Mia's father who is very close to Reed in River Bend, has a stroke and that is what finally brings Mia back home to River Bend and to her family and to Reed.
Reed who grew up with Mia is totally 100% there for her in a way he has never been there for anyone else in the entire series. In this story we get to know both Mia and Reed and no secret is not exposed. We learn who Reed's dad is and what Mia has been up to. And I want to warn you, these two their stories are not pretty but they really enrich the story. They both have pasts but what is so wonderful is the 100% both accept each other as they are and really respect the other, even with the things they did in their past.
Mia was a victim of bullying and from some of our favorite River Bend characters and so it was wonderful how they were brought into the story and how they made it up to her. The author shows how bullying can really affect you and carry into adulthood. But that just because you were a bully, that you can change and make up for the things you did in your youth.
This story is wonderful. I beyond loved it and it might be the final book too as all the main characters are partnered up and we get to see them happy in this story. If it is a conclusion to the series, it really ties up all the loose ends in a beautiful way.
If this is your first book by the author I do suggest you read the entire series so you know who Reed is but if you don't this story can easily stand alone as well, as the book explains Reed's relationship with everyone.
I am a BIG fan of this series and this is the book and story I have been waiting for YEARS!! And does it live up to my expectations YES!!! So much. I loved Reed and Mia's love story. It really had everything laughter, tears, and we catch up with all our favorite characters.
This story starts 9/10 months before the main story starts. It is a night that Mia will never forget and neither will Reed. They see each other after not seeing each other since age 18 and it was a very HOT night if you know what I mean.
Then the story starts 9 months later when Mia's father who is very close to Reed in River Bend, has a stroke and that is what finally brings Mia back home to River Bend and to her family and to Reed.
Reed who grew up with Mia is totally 100% there for her in a way he has never been there for anyone else in the entire series. In this story we get to know both Mia and Reed and no secret is not exposed. We learn who Reed's dad is and what Mia has been up to. And I want to warn you, these two their stories are not pretty but they really enrich the story. They both have pasts but what is so wonderful is the 100% both accept each other as they are and really respect the other, even with the things they did in their past.
Mia was a victim of bullying and from some of our favorite River Bend characters and so it was wonderful how they were brought into the story and how they made it up to her. The author shows how bullying can really affect you and carry into adulthood. But that just because you were a bully, that you can change and make up for the things you did in your youth.
This story is wonderful. I beyond loved it and it might be the final book too as all the main characters are partnered up and we get to see them happy in this story. If it is a conclusion to the series, it really ties up all the loose ends in a beautiful way.
If this is your first book by the author I do suggest you read the entire series so you know who Reed is but if you don't this story can easily stand alone as well, as the book explains Reed's relationship with everyone.
June 16, 2017
*** I received an advanced copy and chose to review it ***
** 100% spoiler-free review **
Ah River Bend....so nice to visit with you again! It's been awhile since book 4 came out and all of this time I've been waiting patiently to get Reed's story in book 5 and Molly McLain did not disappoint! First and foremost, Can't Let Go can definitely be read as a standalone and McLain does a great job of filling in new readers who are first being introduced to this series. However, as a seasoned reader of the entire River Bend series, I would be remiss if I didn't tell you to go back and read the other books---first for the stories because there is so much history for Reed and all of the other characters and also because Can't Let Go has major spoilers for said characters!
McLain has given readers all they were hoping with Reed and Mia's story. And, quite honestly, Reed is so much more than I expected! There has always been a stigma surrounding Reed and his actions in previous books have not shed him in a positive light. In Can't Let Go McLain cracks Reed wide open and what we learn is that he is flawed and his past has shaped him in ways that none of us could've imagined. He is so much more than his reputation in previous books and I felt for him as his past is slowly revealed. Mia was so much a part of that past and I loved seeing their relationship develop based on their close friendship. There were heartbreaking moments as Mia deals with her father's condition but out of that heartbreak, love was re-born. Along with the more somber moments, there are laughs that balance the story in the perfect way.
Fans of McLain's River Bend series will love seeing their old favorites again. It's like a homecoming where you finally get to catch up with those long-lost friends you haven't seen in awhile. And, this is where all of those aforementioned spoilers come in!
Can't Let Go is the perfect friends-to-lovers, second-chance romance. It will make you feel, it will make you think and it will make you fall in love with these beautifully flawed characters. Don't miss it!
** 100% spoiler-free review **
Ah River Bend....so nice to visit with you again! It's been awhile since book 4 came out and all of this time I've been waiting patiently to get Reed's story in book 5 and Molly McLain did not disappoint! First and foremost, Can't Let Go can definitely be read as a standalone and McLain does a great job of filling in new readers who are first being introduced to this series. However, as a seasoned reader of the entire River Bend series, I would be remiss if I didn't tell you to go back and read the other books---first for the stories because there is so much history for Reed and all of the other characters and also because Can't Let Go has major spoilers for said characters!
McLain has given readers all they were hoping with Reed and Mia's story. And, quite honestly, Reed is so much more than I expected! There has always been a stigma surrounding Reed and his actions in previous books have not shed him in a positive light. In Can't Let Go McLain cracks Reed wide open and what we learn is that he is flawed and his past has shaped him in ways that none of us could've imagined. He is so much more than his reputation in previous books and I felt for him as his past is slowly revealed. Mia was so much a part of that past and I loved seeing their relationship develop based on their close friendship. There were heartbreaking moments as Mia deals with her father's condition but out of that heartbreak, love was re-born. Along with the more somber moments, there are laughs that balance the story in the perfect way.
Fans of McLain's River Bend series will love seeing their old favorites again. It's like a homecoming where you finally get to catch up with those long-lost friends you haven't seen in awhile. And, this is where all of those aforementioned spoilers come in!
Can't Let Go is the perfect friends-to-lovers, second-chance romance. It will make you feel, it will make you think and it will make you fall in love with these beautifully flawed characters. Don't miss it!
June 27, 2017
4 star
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, surprises, suspense, danger, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Can't Shake You (River Bend, #1)
Can't Hold Back (River Bend, #1.5)
Can't Get Enough (River Bend, #2)
Always Enough (River Bend, #2.5)
Can't Walk Away (River Bend, #3)
Can't Resist Him (River Bend, #4)
Can't Forget Her (Hope Falls; River Bend #4.5)
This is Mia and Reed’s story. Reed is a player and he likes it that way. He had a less than perfect childhood and now he knows what he wants and has no issues stating those wants. Mia needs help and must return home when her father falls ill. She leans on Reed but is he strong enough to help her? Or will all the closeness have then falling for each other and not the way they thought? Can Reed take care of Mia and let he go if she needs him too? Or will they both fall and reach for each other on the way?
I loved these characters and the side characters. I felt I could connect with the characters and the story was a great read. This book deals with real life issues. Lots of emotions will be pulled out of this story.
I recommend this book.
I was pulled right into this story. The story has laughs, surprises, suspense, danger, and heartbreak.
If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
Can't Shake You (River Bend, #1)
Can't Hold Back (River Bend, #1.5)
Can't Get Enough (River Bend, #2)
Always Enough (River Bend, #2.5)
Can't Walk Away (River Bend, #3)
Can't Resist Him (River Bend, #4)
Can't Forget Her (Hope Falls; River Bend #4.5)
This is Mia and Reed’s story. Reed is a player and he likes it that way. He had a less than perfect childhood and now he knows what he wants and has no issues stating those wants. Mia needs help and must return home when her father falls ill. She leans on Reed but is he strong enough to help her? Or will all the closeness have then falling for each other and not the way they thought? Can Reed take care of Mia and let he go if she needs him too? Or will they both fall and reach for each other on the way?
I loved these characters and the side characters. I felt I could connect with the characters and the story was a great read. This book deals with real life issues. Lots of emotions will be pulled out of this story.
I recommend this book.
January 18, 2024
This book just didn't engage me that much. I found Mia to be kind of blah and honestly not as tough as she's made out to be. Her staying engaged to her cheating fiancee Ben and then kind of blithely not caring that she's consonantly running into some woman Reed has screwed - well it just felt forced and rather dull. Reed also annoyed me which is never a good thing.
The complete lack of drama also left me feeling like this was a slog to get through. It all centred around her dad and her devious ex with a revelation for Reed at the end. And of course Reed the local Lothario was anything but in this story (eyeroll). He's also wanted Mia and was just waiting out his time. Yawn. I skimmed to the end to see if I was missing anything. I wasn't.
The complete lack of drama also left me feeling like this was a slog to get through. It all centred around her dad and her devious ex with a revelation for Reed at the end. And of course Reed the local Lothario was anything but in this story (eyeroll). He's also wanted Mia and was just waiting out his time. Yawn. I skimmed to the end to see if I was missing anything. I wasn't.
June 22, 2017
Can't Let Go, A River Bend Novel, by Molly McLain. This is a new author to me. I plan on going back and reading the previous books, so I can better know the other characters.
I fell absolutely in love with this book from the beginning. Reed hasn't seen Mia in years but his feelings for her haven't changed one bit. They find comfort in each other but then they lose touch for almost a year. When Mia has to come home for an emergency, Reed refuses to let her push him away again. He plans in doing everything he can to be with her.
This book was emotion filled, hot and steamy all wrapped into one. I strongly recommend this book!!
I fell absolutely in love with this book from the beginning. Reed hasn't seen Mia in years but his feelings for her haven't changed one bit. They find comfort in each other but then they lose touch for almost a year. When Mia has to come home for an emergency, Reed refuses to let her push him away again. He plans in doing everything he can to be with her.
This book was emotion filled, hot and steamy all wrapped into one. I strongly recommend this book!!
July 16, 2023
A second chance love story
By now in this series, I have decided that Reed would not be finding his forever love. So when I began this one, I was eager to get the details on "his woman".
Mia and Reed had a connection in elementary school, but obviously, it went nowhere. Which led Mia to make decisions that kept her away from Reed and River Bend.
While I ultimately enjoyed this story and their journey to the HEA, there were some parts of this story that I didn't connect with, and I felt some of their connection was meh.
Again, I did enjoy this one, but not as much as the others.
Additionally, there might be some issues for sensitive readers, depending on the person, so - just an FYI.
I do recommend this author and this series.
By now in this series, I have decided that Reed would not be finding his forever love. So when I began this one, I was eager to get the details on "his woman".
Mia and Reed had a connection in elementary school, but obviously, it went nowhere. Which led Mia to make decisions that kept her away from Reed and River Bend.
While I ultimately enjoyed this story and their journey to the HEA, there were some parts of this story that I didn't connect with, and I felt some of their connection was meh.
Again, I did enjoy this one, but not as much as the others.
Additionally, there might be some issues for sensitive readers, depending on the person, so - just an FYI.
I do recommend this author and this series.
July 1, 2017
I voluntarily received an advanced reader copy of this book.
I don't consider this a second chance romance because Mia and Reed were never a couple. He was more like a best friend and confidant. He was the town playboy and had a serious reputation which you'll have to put aside when reading because he's literally bedded EVERY woman in his town. Mia always had a crush on him growing up but she thought she didn't fit in because she was the daughter of a Mexican immigrant.
They reunited after several years and things moved pretty quickly between these two and then it was a tug of war. Not a bad read and Reed isn't so bad after all regardless of his playboy ways. He has a huge heart when it comes to his mom, ❤️.
I don't consider this a second chance romance because Mia and Reed were never a couple. He was more like a best friend and confidant. He was the town playboy and had a serious reputation which you'll have to put aside when reading because he's literally bedded EVERY woman in his town. Mia always had a crush on him growing up but she thought she didn't fit in because she was the daughter of a Mexican immigrant.
They reunited after several years and things moved pretty quickly between these two and then it was a tug of war. Not a bad read and Reed isn't so bad after all regardless of his playboy ways. He has a huge heart when it comes to his mom, ❤️.
June 16, 2017
I really love well written friends, best friends to lovers books. Add in that this is a small-town romance novel. Another plus in my book is that it is part of a wonderful series. Top that off…. This phenomenal book was written by the incomparable Molly McLain. I fell for Ms. McLain’s writing a couple of years ago, and have never been disappointed. Now, for my review…
Molly McLain, you have accomplished a great feat. You made me fall for Reed Fletcher, which was not an easy task. In previous books Reed, in my opinion was a womanizing, man-whore, prick. Moving thru the women of River Bend like water. Molly McLain, verrry sneaky, not previously giving the whole story of Reed Fletcher, but, that was your devious plan alllll along, wasn’t it? We find out that Mia Carderas was his kryptonite, so to speak, the person responsible in a way for the way that he is, or was….
Mia, well, she has some issues of her own. She left River Bend as fast as she possibly could. Mia has done some things that she is not particularly proud of since she left River Bend, but considers them the means to an end. However, when her father gets sick she returns home to the people and the town of River Bend. She finds out that maybe you can go home again…. And, just maybe the reasons that she left and stayed away, are just not there anymore
I loved watching Mia and Reed reconnect A.GAIN…. No, I will not say why I wrote it that way…. I will not give any spoilers away. Watching them go from BFF’s to lovers, I cried. I LOVED the way Mia let Reed around by his…. Stop, again, I am not giving anything away… Let us just say that Reed is getting some comeuppance….lol.
As usual, Ms. McLain takes her readers on a very emotional ride in Can’t Let Go, several times the tears flowed. One of my favorite times was the letter from Papi…. I CRIED!!!!!
Beautiful, wonderful, heartfelt story. Ms. McLain, in my honest opinion… you are one of the best romance writers around and Can’t Let Go is just another example of this! KUDOS!!
Thank you for reading my review.
NOW, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR. GO ONE-CLICK THIS BOOK!!!
Molly McLain, you have accomplished a great feat. You made me fall for Reed Fletcher, which was not an easy task. In previous books Reed, in my opinion was a womanizing, man-whore, prick. Moving thru the women of River Bend like water. Molly McLain, verrry sneaky, not previously giving the whole story of Reed Fletcher, but, that was your devious plan alllll along, wasn’t it? We find out that Mia Carderas was his kryptonite, so to speak, the person responsible in a way for the way that he is, or was….
Mia, well, she has some issues of her own. She left River Bend as fast as she possibly could. Mia has done some things that she is not particularly proud of since she left River Bend, but considers them the means to an end. However, when her father gets sick she returns home to the people and the town of River Bend. She finds out that maybe you can go home again…. And, just maybe the reasons that she left and stayed away, are just not there anymore
I loved watching Mia and Reed reconnect A.GAIN…. No, I will not say why I wrote it that way…. I will not give any spoilers away. Watching them go from BFF’s to lovers, I cried. I LOVED the way Mia let Reed around by his…. Stop, again, I am not giving anything away… Let us just say that Reed is getting some comeuppance….lol.
As usual, Ms. McLain takes her readers on a very emotional ride in Can’t Let Go, several times the tears flowed. One of my favorite times was the letter from Papi…. I CRIED!!!!!
Beautiful, wonderful, heartfelt story. Ms. McLain, in my honest opinion… you are one of the best romance writers around and Can’t Let Go is just another example of this! KUDOS!!
Thank you for reading my review.
NOW, WHAT ARE YOU WAITING FOR. GO ONE-CLICK THIS BOOK!!!
July 29, 2017
Mia Carderas grew up in RiverBend, the daughter of a Mexican immigrant. She was bullied in high school because of that & the crush she had on Reed Fletcher, the star football player. Mia left River Bend for college & really hasn't. Even back. Until now when her father has suffered a stroke. Can she stand being in River Bend? Will she stay or head back to Omaha & the job that she dislikes but made her a lot of money?
Reed Fletcher was a star player in high school & college. He was on his way to a pro career until his knee was blown out in practice. Now he's a building inspector & high school football coach. A chance encounter with Mia has him remembering what is good in life & has the former playboy changing his ways. Can he get Mia to realize he's changed & his feelings are sincere?
While this book is the fifth in the series, it can be read as a stand alone. Each book in the series gives some background & follows a couple through their relationship. Reed & Mia were around each other growing up & Mia actually had a crush on him. Molly McLain has given the readers a town of well developed characters that have reformed themselves as they grew up. You have the mean girls that tormented Mia growing up, the adolescent boys that made fun of her & Reed, that stuck up for her somewhat. The owners & employees of the diner have created a small family & look out for each other. Between the feelings exposed in the interactions between the main characters, the pain & sorrow from Mia's dad's strokes, & the fear, shame & anger exposed from the final twist, the reader's emotions are on a rollercoaster journey. I really enjoyed this book & as long as you can handle some hot sexual scenes, I think you will too.
Reed Fletcher was a star player in high school & college. He was on his way to a pro career until his knee was blown out in practice. Now he's a building inspector & high school football coach. A chance encounter with Mia has him remembering what is good in life & has the former playboy changing his ways. Can he get Mia to realize he's changed & his feelings are sincere?
While this book is the fifth in the series, it can be read as a stand alone. Each book in the series gives some background & follows a couple through their relationship. Reed & Mia were around each other growing up & Mia actually had a crush on him. Molly McLain has given the readers a town of well developed characters that have reformed themselves as they grew up. You have the mean girls that tormented Mia growing up, the adolescent boys that made fun of her & Reed, that stuck up for her somewhat. The owners & employees of the diner have created a small family & look out for each other. Between the feelings exposed in the interactions between the main characters, the pain & sorrow from Mia's dad's strokes, & the fear, shame & anger exposed from the final twist, the reader's emotions are on a rollercoaster journey. I really enjoyed this book & as long as you can handle some hot sexual scenes, I think you will too.
June 16, 2017
Mia Cardero has a life far different from the one she experienced as a misfit teenager, one she's not altogether happy with. She's proven herself but she's missing the security of family and the life she intended to have when she left River Bend.
Reed Fletcher likes his life in River Bend but he knows there is more. All of his friends have settled down and he's envious of their relationships and stability. He is immediately drawn to the dark-haired beauty when he sees her again though he regrets the way he and everyone else treated her during their youth.
This is the 5th book in the series. Though they can be read as stand alones, you will miss some of the other relationships mentioned in this book. I both loved and hated Reed in this series-well, hate is a strong word-severely disliked but I can say I am now firmly back in the love camp. He's beautifully flawed and steadfastly loyal. Mia was the perfect fit for him as she doesn't allow his past to define him though she carries the scars of her own. Her devotion is easily apparent through her motions.
I have read many of this authors publications and have been waiting for this one for a while. The wait was well worth it. I am saddened this is the last book in the series as I've enjoyed being a part of the journey. I am looking forward to her other works.
Reed Fletcher likes his life in River Bend but he knows there is more. All of his friends have settled down and he's envious of their relationships and stability. He is immediately drawn to the dark-haired beauty when he sees her again though he regrets the way he and everyone else treated her during their youth.
This is the 5th book in the series. Though they can be read as stand alones, you will miss some of the other relationships mentioned in this book. I both loved and hated Reed in this series-well, hate is a strong word-severely disliked but I can say I am now firmly back in the love camp. He's beautifully flawed and steadfastly loyal. Mia was the perfect fit for him as she doesn't allow his past to define him though she carries the scars of her own. Her devotion is easily apparent through her motions.
I have read many of this authors publications and have been waiting for this one for a while. The wait was well worth it. I am saddened this is the last book in the series as I've enjoyed being a part of the journey. I am looking forward to her other works.
June 22, 2017
5 Stars
I give Can’t Let Go by Molly McLain five stars. This is Book Five of the River Bend Series. I have read every single book Molly has published and I LOVED them all, including this one! This book can be read as a stand-alone. This is a best friend to lover’s book and a small-town romance at the same time. Molly has a phenomenal writing style, she will pull you right into the story within minutes of starting the book and you will never want to put it down. You will also be sad when it’s over because her stories are that great! If you have read the other River Bend books you know that Reed Fletcher is a player and goes through woman like underwear. In this book, you are told Reed’s story and you understand why he does this and you fall a little bit in love with him each chapter. Mia was bullied as a child growing up in River Bend and Reed was her only friend. After school Mia got out of River Bend as quick as possible because of her growing up years and ended up in a job that she will not tell her parents about because she is not proud of it. When something happens to make Mia come home to River Bend the sparks start to fly between her and Reed. This book is a must read along with the other River Bend Books! Enjoy!
I give Can’t Let Go by Molly McLain five stars. This is Book Five of the River Bend Series. I have read every single book Molly has published and I LOVED them all, including this one! This book can be read as a stand-alone. This is a best friend to lover’s book and a small-town romance at the same time. Molly has a phenomenal writing style, she will pull you right into the story within minutes of starting the book and you will never want to put it down. You will also be sad when it’s over because her stories are that great! If you have read the other River Bend books you know that Reed Fletcher is a player and goes through woman like underwear. In this book, you are told Reed’s story and you understand why he does this and you fall a little bit in love with him each chapter. Mia was bullied as a child growing up in River Bend and Reed was her only friend. After school Mia got out of River Bend as quick as possible because of her growing up years and ended up in a job that she will not tell her parents about because she is not proud of it. When something happens to make Mia come home to River Bend the sparks start to fly between her and Reed. This book is a must read along with the other River Bend Books! Enjoy!
June 19, 2017
I voluntarily read an advance review copy of this book
Overall this was a great book. I loved the ups and downs, the drama, the laughs and all of the moments in-between. Molly did a great job drawing the reader in and leaving them wanting more of what River Bend had to offer.
I loved that both of these characters were imperfect. They both had good points and bad points to them all. For me Reed was a jerk at times but other moments he blew my mind away, he was sweet, caring, said all of the right words but there were times that I felt like he was a selfish jerk. Mia was going through so much, I loved that she kept being strong for her family. There were other times though that I felt that she was a doormat...and others I felt like she was selfish. I wanted her to shut Reed down a little bit more and let him know hey I don't like what you did....it wasn't ok and don't do it again.
What was weird for me is although both Reed and Mia had moments where I wanted to shake them...I also found that it drew me in. Their imperfect qualities made them more human. It made me feel like I could connect with them a little bit more because their emotions were so raw and real.
Overall this was a great book. I loved the ups and downs, the drama, the laughs and all of the moments in-between. Molly did a great job drawing the reader in and leaving them wanting more of what River Bend had to offer.
I loved that both of these characters were imperfect. They both had good points and bad points to them all. For me Reed was a jerk at times but other moments he blew my mind away, he was sweet, caring, said all of the right words but there were times that I felt like he was a selfish jerk. Mia was going through so much, I loved that she kept being strong for her family. There were other times though that I felt that she was a doormat...and others I felt like she was selfish. I wanted her to shut Reed down a little bit more and let him know hey I don't like what you did....it wasn't ok and don't do it again.
What was weird for me is although both Reed and Mia had moments where I wanted to shake them...I also found that it drew me in. Their imperfect qualities made them more human. It made me feel like I could connect with them a little bit more because their emotions were so raw and real.
June 16, 2017
Best friends to lovers, small town romance, and visits from past characters that I love. Need I say more? In a nutshell, that right there is reason enough to adore this book! But there is so much more to gush about!!!
Reed, I've loved him since we first met in in Josh and Carissa's book. He's a sweetie, sexy, a football coach, and so much more. Enters Mia, childhood best friend Mia. She doesn't like the memories she has of Riverbend unless they include Reed. He may have been a manwhore and not know Mia loved him but he's always been there for her through everything..... and years later that hasn't changed!!!
Crisis is happening in our poor Mia's life and who better then Reed to step up. He's everything you would imagine him to be and more. He sweet, he's Reed, and he's as loving as you would imagine. He's a rock for Mia, but amidst her life Reed soon finds his spiraling out of control. It's then that you see the love these two share. The compassion, love, and the bond. The need to take care of and love each other. The need to be there for the other and to nurture and take care of. The need to be best friends and above all else the need to love each other! We've waited for Reed but it was so worth the wait! You definitely won't be disappointed!!!
Reed, I've loved him since we first met in in Josh and Carissa's book. He's a sweetie, sexy, a football coach, and so much more. Enters Mia, childhood best friend Mia. She doesn't like the memories she has of Riverbend unless they include Reed. He may have been a manwhore and not know Mia loved him but he's always been there for her through everything..... and years later that hasn't changed!!!
Crisis is happening in our poor Mia's life and who better then Reed to step up. He's everything you would imagine him to be and more. He sweet, he's Reed, and he's as loving as you would imagine. He's a rock for Mia, but amidst her life Reed soon finds his spiraling out of control. It's then that you see the love these two share. The compassion, love, and the bond. The need to take care of and love each other. The need to be there for the other and to nurture and take care of. The need to be best friends and above all else the need to love each other! We've waited for Reed but it was so worth the wait! You definitely won't be disappointed!!!
June 22, 2017
I received this ARC for an honest review.
So I finished this book and when I got on GR to post my review I see Molly McLain has several books in this series! She is a new author to me so I had no idea what to expect. But that can be a good thing as it up's the anticipation. I felt I had a bit of trouble getting into his book at the beginning, but once I got over that tiny bump it was smooth sailing...or reading from then on out!
This was a fantastic second chance romance book that truly pulled out the emotions in me! So much so, I found myself literally crying on many occasions! This book represented life......everyday situations that happen to ordinary people. That made it even more special and real to me! The good, bad and one particular twist in the book had me completely hooked until the end. And it didn't hurt that I fell completely head over heels for Reed (Mia is one lucky lady!!!!)
Molly did a fantastic job with this book and she will definitely be an author I will read more of!
So I finished this book and when I got on GR to post my review I see Molly McLain has several books in this series! She is a new author to me so I had no idea what to expect. But that can be a good thing as it up's the anticipation. I felt I had a bit of trouble getting into his book at the beginning, but once I got over that tiny bump it was smooth sailing...or reading from then on out!
This was a fantastic second chance romance book that truly pulled out the emotions in me! So much so, I found myself literally crying on many occasions! This book represented life......everyday situations that happen to ordinary people. That made it even more special and real to me! The good, bad and one particular twist in the book had me completely hooked until the end. And it didn't hurt that I fell completely head over heels for Reed (Mia is one lucky lady!!!!)
Molly did a fantastic job with this book and she will definitely be an author I will read more of!
June 24, 2017
Unexpected twist near the end.
So this is Reed's redeeming story and the end to this set of initial River Bend characters. What I enjoyed most was having them all (or almost all) coalesce as part of the story. Do I feel that Reed is completely redeemed? No – some of his cad character came through at points. However, he isn’t as much of a cad as you’ve been led to believe either.
Reed and Mia were childhood friends who grew apart. They have one steamy night when they run into each other and then we fast forward several months. She ends up returning to her hometown due to her father’s illness and the sparks are still there.
It was a little frustrating that they were so vague about their feelings for each other for so much of the story and I have mixed feelings about the twist near the end.
However, overall – River Bend is a great place to sit and read for a while and I’ll never complain about revisiting some of my favorite characters from the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an uncorrected advance reader copy of this book.
So this is Reed's redeeming story and the end to this set of initial River Bend characters. What I enjoyed most was having them all (or almost all) coalesce as part of the story. Do I feel that Reed is completely redeemed? No – some of his cad character came through at points. However, he isn’t as much of a cad as you’ve been led to believe either.
Reed and Mia were childhood friends who grew apart. They have one steamy night when they run into each other and then we fast forward several months. She ends up returning to her hometown due to her father’s illness and the sparks are still there.
It was a little frustrating that they were so vague about their feelings for each other for so much of the story and I have mixed feelings about the twist near the end.
However, overall – River Bend is a great place to sit and read for a while and I’ll never complain about revisiting some of my favorite characters from the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an uncorrected advance reader copy of this book.
June 29, 2017
Marie's Tempting Reads ARC Review:
I ADORE...no LOOOOOVE this cover! Soft, sexy, sweet, it is the FIRST thing I noticed and had me instantly intrigued. But the story, the romance, the sexy scenes is what really took my breath away and left my heart happy. Its this kind of romance that can make me sappy. Its beautifully written with adoring characters a great storyline, soft and balanced plot and is just GOOD!
Molly McLain is a fanfreakingtastic author! Can't Let Go has sexy, crackling with heat scenes that just left me squirming and biting my lip....I think I even MOANED a time or two. OMG a book that can make me moan is a MUST HAVE book. I am addicted to this particular story and Reed is one succulent hero and Mia is full of surprises. Reed and Mia together though blew my mind and I CHERISHED IT!
Can't Let Go is a SWEET, SEXY, GIVE ME THAT I MUST READ IT AGAIN RIGHT NOW FIVE SHOOTING STARS! Molly McLain is VERY talented author and KNOWS how to write perfect romances that can make you SWOON!
I ADORE...no LOOOOOVE this cover! Soft, sexy, sweet, it is the FIRST thing I noticed and had me instantly intrigued. But the story, the romance, the sexy scenes is what really took my breath away and left my heart happy. Its this kind of romance that can make me sappy. Its beautifully written with adoring characters a great storyline, soft and balanced plot and is just GOOD!
Molly McLain is a fanfreakingtastic author! Can't Let Go has sexy, crackling with heat scenes that just left me squirming and biting my lip....I think I even MOANED a time or two. OMG a book that can make me moan is a MUST HAVE book. I am addicted to this particular story and Reed is one succulent hero and Mia is full of surprises. Reed and Mia together though blew my mind and I CHERISHED IT!
Can't Let Go is a SWEET, SEXY, GIVE ME THAT I MUST READ IT AGAIN RIGHT NOW FIVE SHOOTING STARS! Molly McLain is VERY talented author and KNOWS how to write perfect romances that can make you SWOON!
June 27, 2017
"Reed Fletcher, River Bend's biggest player."
Yaaasss.. ladies, Reed is our next BBF..lol
Can't Let Go is a friends to lovers book and is such a fun, yet emotional and very Hawt read!!
Mia moves comes back to town after many years of being away when her father falls ill. She happens to run into Reed, he is the boy from sooo many years ago that she use to lust after. After seeing him all those feelings come rushing back. But she tries to fight those feelings but Reed will not have that...not this time. He is ready to settle down and maybe make Mia his own??
This is the first book I have read in the River Bend series. I feel that this book can be read as a stand alone, I really didn't feel lost in not reading the other four books.
I gave this book 5 Stars!!! Make sure you pick it up now and find out how Reed gets Mia to realize he is no longer the town player and he wants to make her his. : )
Yaaasss.. ladies, Reed is our next BBF..lol
Can't Let Go is a friends to lovers book and is such a fun, yet emotional and very Hawt read!!
Mia moves comes back to town after many years of being away when her father falls ill. She happens to run into Reed, he is the boy from sooo many years ago that she use to lust after. After seeing him all those feelings come rushing back. But she tries to fight those feelings but Reed will not have that...not this time. He is ready to settle down and maybe make Mia his own??
This is the first book I have read in the River Bend series. I feel that this book can be read as a stand alone, I really didn't feel lost in not reading the other four books.
I gave this book 5 Stars!!! Make sure you pick it up now and find out how Reed gets Mia to realize he is no longer the town player and he wants to make her his. : )
July 30, 2017
Can't Let Go has a fairly complex story line, one fraught with the insecurities of both hero and heroine. Reed covered his by being the ultimate playboy and Mia avoided hers by staying away from River Bend. However, the past catches up with both of them. The romance between Reed and Mia is steamy, but I did find her acceptance of Reed having slept with every woman in town a bit upsetting. Reed does redeem himself and when he commits to Mia he goes all the way. There was plenty of romance and a fairly involved story, which I felt was spoiled by the unnecessary use of foul language, that did nothing to enhance the romance. Although this book is part of a series, it is a standalone and can be enjoyed as such. A definite age restriction is required for this book both from the aspect of steamy bedroom scenes and language used. I received a copy of this book as a gift and this is my honest and voluntary review.
June 16, 2017
I love this series and have been waiting for Reed's story since we met the sweet,sexy, football coach in Josh's book.
Once again McLain writes a story that sucked me in from the start and held me captive until the very last page. I couldn't put this one down and read it in one sitting.
Reed being the ladies man of Riverbend, he is sure he will never settle down. When he runs into his childhood friend Mia, he can't seem to get her out of his head. When a tragedy in her family brings her home, he will not let her go again.
Oh how I love a good friends-to-lovers story, and this one has it all. McLain never lets me down and I can't wait to see what she brings us next. She will always be and instant one-click author for me. You won't be lost in the story if you haven't read the other books in this series, but man will you be missing out on some good stuff if you don't!
Once again McLain writes a story that sucked me in from the start and held me captive until the very last page. I couldn't put this one down and read it in one sitting.
Reed being the ladies man of Riverbend, he is sure he will never settle down. When he runs into his childhood friend Mia, he can't seem to get her out of his head. When a tragedy in her family brings her home, he will not let her go again.
Oh how I love a good friends-to-lovers story, and this one has it all. McLain never lets me down and I can't wait to see what she brings us next. She will always be and instant one-click author for me. You won't be lost in the story if you haven't read the other books in this series, but man will you be missing out on some good stuff if you don't!
June 18, 2017
A solid 4.5 stars!!
Reed is a sexy man who seems to sleep with many women, but finally decides he wants more. His more, his forever is a childhood friend who he runs into after years of not seeing each other. Then he has to figure out how to win her over while she lives far away from him. Months after seeing her & having a fantastic night together they run into each other again when her father has a stroke. Reed works his magic while her dad heals & has set backs. It takes time & working out things before they can get a hea.
I liked this story, but didn't love it like the others. There was so much going on & so much it seemed trying to keep them apart. I just felt something was missing. Plus I felt the ending was lacking there should have been more. I wanted to see more into their future.
Reed is a sexy man who seems to sleep with many women, but finally decides he wants more. His more, his forever is a childhood friend who he runs into after years of not seeing each other. Then he has to figure out how to win her over while she lives far away from him. Months after seeing her & having a fantastic night together they run into each other again when her father has a stroke. Reed works his magic while her dad heals & has set backs. It takes time & working out things before they can get a hea.
I liked this story, but didn't love it like the others. There was so much going on & so much it seemed trying to keep them apart. I just felt something was missing. Plus I felt the ending was lacking there should have been more. I wanted to see more into their future.
June 19, 2017
OMG - I loved Reed and Mia's story so much! This book is so sweet - full of love. They have a friendship that started at 5 yrs old. Mia has always had the hearts for Reed and has watched him change girls like clothes. He was her best friend throughout their school years and always there for her. Feeling like she didn't fit in in River Bend, she moved away after high school and started a new life for herself. Now twelve years later, their paths cross in more ways than one. This book had me cheering, laughing, and crying - sad and happy tears. This story can be read as a standalone. I have not read all the books in this series, and did not feel lost one bit. I do know that I need to read the rest, because I love this series and can't get enough of Molly's writing!
ARC provided by author - this is my voluntary review
ARC provided by author - this is my voluntary review
June 22, 2017
I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book (given by Hype PR)...
Possible Spoilers:
I loved seeing Reed finally being dealt his romantic karma. This book has a little twist, in that Mia was Reed's childhood best friend who he lost touch with over time. The story was very beautiful and I'm a major fan of second chance romances, but I felt Mia forgave Reed to easily for everything he did to her. The story itself was sweet and very steamy.
One thing I did find a little odd is the introduction of Mia: she is portrayed as growing up with Reed in River Bend and that everyone knows her, but when Reed mentioned Mia's name to Jenny in a previous book she had no idea who she was. And no offense I was somewhat annoyed with everyone from River Bend because apparently they all bullied Mia in high school.
Possible Spoilers:
I loved seeing Reed finally being dealt his romantic karma. This book has a little twist, in that Mia was Reed's childhood best friend who he lost touch with over time. The story was very beautiful and I'm a major fan of second chance romances, but I felt Mia forgave Reed to easily for everything he did to her. The story itself was sweet and very steamy.
One thing I did find a little odd is the introduction of Mia: she is portrayed as growing up with Reed in River Bend and that everyone knows her, but when Reed mentioned Mia's name to Jenny in a previous book she had no idea who she was. And no offense I was somewhat annoyed with everyone from River Bend because apparently they all bullied Mia in high school.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 23, 2017
Being a huge fan of the River Bend series, I was a bit nervous heading into Can't Let Go. As Reed made me want to punch him in the face in previous books, Can't Let Go was everything and more of what I, as a reader, needed.
Reed has been a staple of this series. He's been in every book, and I've been patiently waiting to see what his story would be. IT DID NOT DISAPPOINT. Reed and Mia are everything. Reed is so much more than I had expected, and nothing like I had assumed. I applaud Molly McLain with how she crafted each of these characters. They are real, well rounded, complex. The story they are given is beautiful, and flows with the River Bend series perfectly.
Recommended to any Contemporary Romance Reader!
Reed has been a staple of this series. He's been in every book, and I've been patiently waiting to see what his story would be. IT DID NOT DISAPPOINT. Reed and Mia are everything. Reed is so much more than I had expected, and nothing like I had assumed. I applaud Molly McLain with how she crafted each of these characters. They are real, well rounded, complex. The story they are given is beautiful, and flows with the River Bend series perfectly.
Recommended to any Contemporary Romance Reader!
June 24, 2017
This was my first book by Molly and i was intrigued with the cover but now i think i need to go back and read the series, This can be read as a stand alone . I really loved the whole friends to lovers. while growing up Mia hadn't had the best of child hood memories, being a victim of bulling she carried that on to her adult life and stayed away from the town that she grew up in. after finding out her dad had a stroke she needs to face the fears and be there for her family, Mia has had a crush on Reed for as long as she has known him, when they meet again the sparks fly, while struggling threw it all Reed has been the rock that Mia has needed all along. i really enjoyed the whole second chance romance.
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