I have to, because I finally have something to live for.
When I first saw those two pink lines, it was a blow that stung harder than any slap or punch ever could. I was devastated. I’m not sure I’m fit to be a mother, but I’m damn sure going to protect this child from the monster down the hall. He will never know it exists… he will never lay one finger on my baby. Not ever.
Some might think the life growing inside of me would be a reminder of all I’ve lost—of all of the pain I’ve endured, the hurt, and the terror. And in a way, they’re right, but it also gives me hope. Now I have something—someone—to fight for.
Anxiously, Nora
__________________
Dear Diary,
I hope this finds you in time—that you can help me, that you believe me. Please believe me...
I had to run sooner than planned… he’s too unpredictable. I can’t take any unnecessary risks, not anymore, not when I have so much to lose.
It’s funny, I used to want to die, for him to hit me so hard I would never wake up, but now? Now I want to live. I have to live.
If you’re reading this still, look for me in the place where the lake meets the shore. I’ll wait for you as long as possible. I understand if you can’t come, or if you don’t want to... but I really hope you do.
This could've been so good. But meeting Atlas' on/off girlfriend, Scarlet, very early on, one which, though they broke up, never left his life and became friendsy with Nora was icky. It ruined it for me. I know this is fiction but there's such a thing as too far-fetched. How many women actually become friends, let alone want to, with their man's ex? A recent ex, at that.
Honestly, I kept waiting for Scarlet to betray Nora. Not to mention that a future between Scarlet and Ellis (Atlas' best friend and roommate) was heavily implied and ewww again. All around from all four parties eww.
Called it! Guess who gets their HEA next? So would've preferred being wrong. *shudders*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I won't give a rating because I DNF. This story had promise but everything went at lighting speed, including their relationship. I just dont think insta love works with this type of plot🤷♀️
“You’re not broken. But even if you were, I’d love every single piece.”
I just met my first L.K. Farlow book and OH MY WOW! This master storyteller writes with an emotional punch that had me alternating smiling and crying. Kicking off the Lake Fortune series, His to Save is a trifecta of forced proximity, suspense, and stepbrother romance with all heart-hitting, soul-shattering feels. Farlow creates character so full of depth that I had a front row seat to the hero and heroine’s moving journey.
This explosive romance entails a strong and stunning heroine who survives the unspeakable and the melt-worthy hero who shows her how it is to trust and truly be loved. Atlas defines hero, a man every man should be. Nora portrays strength and selflessness, an exemplary woman I wept for while admiring her. Nora and Atlas share a soul-deep connection, one full of forever love and light, sharing an intensely emotional journey full of heartbreak and healing. I lived their powerful journey too.
His to Save is a deeply moving and brutally honest story of survival after shattering, of life after feeling dead inside. If you’ve ever been a victim of abuse or assault, this story speaks directly to you. This slow burn of a romance shatters and shines, a story that detonated me. His to Save is beautifully broken and brilliantly told. I bled for this book!
This is Atlas and Nora’s story. Nora is kept completely isolated, and locked away out of sight, by the abusive man her mother married. When two pink lines appear, Nora knows she needs to escape before he finds out, and she manages to run away, but an unexpected source of help comes in the form of Atlas, her stepbrother, who is protective and supportive about her and the baby, This is a well written slow burn, emotional roller coaster, with heartbreak, suspense, trauma, drama, angst, trust, revelations, tension, touch her and die vibes, survival, determination, survival, healing, humor, witty banter, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, haunting, twisted, and unpredictable, small-town romance. I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Gah. This book had so much potential. SO MUCH. And used none of it. Atlas finds out one day that his father and his stepsister are missing, and soon realizes that his stepsister, Nora, was being abused by his father. He finds Nora, pregnant, and helps her out, and they fall in love. I think the fmc cried more in this book than I have ever cried in my life, and I cry a lot. While she definitely had things to cry about, I would have loved to see her development throughout the book and see her grow stronger, not only for herself, but for her unborn child. Instead she was crying the whole book, and then had these random sassy moments, and then got mad when Atlas was trying to protect her. Make it make sense!
Thank you to L.K. Farlow and The Author Agency for the arc!
This book wrecked me—in the best way! I cried so much while reading it, especially during those diary entries... man 🥹. They hit deep. Nora and Atlas's love, their pain, their healing—it all felt so raw and real. Nora’s strength is something that stays with you. It's not flashy or overdone—it's the kind that quietly anchors a story and makes you believe in it. And Atlas? That man is the definition of emotional grace and devotion. The hurt, the vulnerability, the flickers of hope—it’s all portrayed so beautifully. The emotional arc of these characters takes you through a full cycle, and by the end, you feel changed. 💕
Nora’s life changed when her mother married a m0nster. The only bright light was her notebook where she wrote everything down. When a scary outcome from her “situation” arises, her step brother, Atlas might be the only one to try to free her. This is better to go in blind however, be aware that there are many difficult topics that are explained off page so please check the TW. Told in between reading her diary entries this is a heartbreaking yet beautiful with a silver lining with a little twist. What a courageous journey for both Nora & Atlas. My heart is full for these two who deserve everything good in the world. Told in first person and dual POV.
It's so great to see LK Farlow back in the mix- and I was hooked by this book straight from this gorgeous cover and alluring blurb. With a delectable mix of tropes, the promise of heart pounding suspense, and a forbidden love story, His to Save transfixed from the start. It's somehow both an incredibly disturbing story of overcoming trauma married to the lowest angst, gentlest love story she's maybe ever written. Drama and heart, healing and tenderness. It's a dynamic mix.
Again the premise of this one is dark - Nora has escaped an incredible toxic and harmful (both physically and emotionally) situation with her captor, her stepfather. Her rescuer? The older step brother she barely knows, who is somewhat estranged from his suspicious (and now missing) father, who wants to car for and protect Nora after finding her diary, which details her trauma and pain. They've only met a few times, and he's never known her as a legal adult- but now that she's in his care, there is an instant spark between them. Something awakens in him to care for her- but Nora is traumatized, the power dynamics are challenging (she has no one, nothing, and no where to go) and the age gap is the least of their challenges. Including the fact that her abuser is still out there somwhere. Oh, and that she's pregnant with his baby.
The premise here is just so mesmerizing. And while they are dark elements, the story itself is actually very sweet and low angst. The romance does have a very insta-love vibe, which is palatable both because they are not step-siblings who really know each other and there's a bit of a trauma-bond there too. LK somehow balances really a really disturbing and traumatic dark element in the back story with a love story that is emotional but cozy and light in feeling. A lot of Nora's pain and trauma is told from journal entries, and given that she was younger in some, the voice (and brevity) of her entries keeping it from being too heavy despite the abuse she's endured. There is also a very pro-mental health focus here as Nora seeks mental health care and is supported in this by all around her. And this is all juxtaposed to a romance that is slower burning but all around easy, healthy, and gentle. And I appreciated the way the pregnancy (clearly the result of abuse and non-consent) and Nora's feelings about it is handled here - though I know some victims would have a very different orientation. Here it fits Nora, who she is, and what she needs to heal
Of course there is also some really exciting suspense afoot since daddy dearest is out there somwhere, and there are some twists and surprises. This is a fast and page turning read- LK always delivers such charm and feel-good love stories, and even though there is A LOT that doesn't feel good in terms of the history here, the romance is as heartfelt and feel-good as can be. There are gripping elements and more emotional ones- and the finale is full of action. I do think to some, Nora's emotional (and romantic) progress might feel fast or like it could have been developed even more- but I appreciated that we get some rawness without this feeling super dark or heavy even though again her past really is. This is very healing focused vs. trauma recaping, and Nora gets a very sweet and hopeful love story for her HEA. But, as always, check the triggers.
HIS TO FIX is heavy with intense topics, yet it's beautiful and perfectly encapsulates the balance of trauma, grief, healing and love.
***If you have triggers you will want to check the content warnings.***
I know I am in the minority that dislikes going into a book KNOWING there is a Happily Ever After. When the blurb blatantly states it, I feel it diminishes the climax because you already know that everyone will come out of it and it's RARE that the author can keep me on the edge because... duh... what do I actually have to worry about? However, I DID get antsy worrying if the villain was going to do what I thought he was going to do. Some actions can't be taken back. (Plus, it is my ONE trigger I tend to avoid reading on page) I was impressed that LK Farlow could write the climax and still keep me on the edge of my seat all the while knowing there is a HEA.
Another impressive thing that LK Farlow was able to do well is she found a perfect balance to showcase the thought process of a significantly traumatized, socially inept 18 year old. I find it unbearable to "listen to" a whiny FMC. Nora never whines, and her strength and resilience is BELIEVABLE. Not exaggerated to portray a bad ass.
I really love the dual POV and all of the diary entries.
I feel that there was an opportunity in the depth of the romance building considering that it's a romance story. The focus does seem to be geared towards the heavier issues, but they ARE handled with care.
I definitely recommend that you read His To Fix. This is my first time reading anything by this author, but I am DEFINITELY going to read more off of her catalog!
Wow! What a read. How can something be so devastatingly tragic and so beautiful at the same time? The author’s writing delivered on the emotions as well as the pain that was felt.
This is a story about Atlas and Nora. Nora was kept isolated by her abusive stepfather. Her emotional journal entries wrecked me. Atlas, her stepbrother, vowed to save her. When two pink lines show up, Nora knows she needs to escape before her stepfather finds out. Atlas is there to help her and I love how supportive he is and how protective he is about her and the baby.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and enjoyed every bit of it. I loved the writing style and how I could feel all the emotions. There were some laughable moments and moments I was also brought to tears. The suspenses, angst, drama, gut wrenching trauma and restoring, healing love had me glued- I couldn’t put it down. When a book can take you on a roller coaster of emotions you know you’ve been touched. I am definitely a fan and will be reading more books from this author. 4.5/5
“Before, you didn't have a choice, but now you do. With me, you always do. And every time you choose me, I'm going to cherish it, Nora.”
I went into this with no real expectations. Atlas is the most perfect book boyfriend ever, and Nora is such a tenacious heroine. Ellis and Scarlett are incredible side characters, somehow so deep without even having their perspective. I am looking forward to their book. The way mental health is addressed really shows that the author knew what she was writing about. I loved the tips and tricks for panic attacks that were put in there and the representation of men in therapy. Scarlett confused me at first but the moment she met Nora, I fell in love with her. I wouldn’t say I’m as brash as she is, but I DEFINITELY identify with that strong, mouthy personality, and I loved how we got to see her heart regardless. Ellis is such a golden retriever and I’m obsessed with his friendship with Nora. And, once again, Atlas is just perfection.
Oh how this one hurt but it also healed …. Nora is my hero … she’s all that I love about a strong bad@ss heroine who saves herself….. yes Atlas is her biggest supporter and her hero in so many ways but she’s her own hero first and foremost…. As a person who has been the victim of childhood SA this one healed something deep inside me …. I hope it’s a cathartic and healing book for anyone else who reads it… This book deals with something that is way way too common in this world and as disgusting as it is , it still needs to be talked about… Awareness needs to be brought to the subject in a way that heals … There is life after SA and I’m living proof as are many other women and men in this world…. I commend any author who takes on this subject and shows there is light after the dark…
LK FARLOW IS BACK AND SHE’S BETTER THAN EVER. I feel like that will be the headline of many reviewers who have been eagerly anticipating this talented author’s next book. His to Save is absolutely worth the wait! Just… WOW. I’m shookith. This is a side to LK Farlow we haven’t previously seen and I AM HERE FOR IT!
The story she created for Nora and Atlas is extremely emotional as well as turbulent (hello, forbidden romance!) but this author pulled off the tough topics effortlessly. I could not put this one down! It’s packed from start to finish with elements that hooked me. The gut wrenching heartache. The determination. The spark of hope that burns into an inferno. The character chemistry.
There are highlights of my favorite parts in EVERY CHAPTER. . It’s just that good! You’re going to love this one. An absolute favorite of 2025 and my new favorite from LK Farlow!
okay so this was good, it caught my attention from the beginning. i'm all about books with these tropes but i think everybody should read at their own risk. read trigger warnings before diving in. my only gripe about this is that it felt insta-lovey??? i know they first met and it was kinda normal but the pacing when they reunite again felt a little rushed and gave insta-lovey. i got a bit bored in some parts but overall it was a good read.
A step brother, age gap, romance that is a step outside of the norm. Definitely check the list of trigger warnings at the beginning of the book if you have any.
Nora Morgan is dealt a crummy deck of life cards. But that doesn’t stop her from being a strong & resilient young woman. With determination, she makes sure she’s going to live the life she wants. She might still have her fears but she works through those fears with the help of Atlas, and his best friend Ellis.
Atlas Wallace has great intuition if something is wrong with his girl. He knows he has to tread lightly with her, she’s very skittish - rightfully so. Atlas is made to help & protect. It’s just who he is. So he makes it his mission to be sure Nora will never want for anything ever again. Sometimes he does go a bit overboard until Nora grows the confidence to put him back in his place.
A romantic suspense that leaves you feeling all kinds of happiness after all Nora & Atlas have overcome in a short period.
Trigger Warning: Mentions of abuse and trauma. Please take care of yourself before reading. Spoiler Alert Below
I have very mixed feelings about this book.
From the blurb, I expected a slow-burn romance—something that would take its time, especially given everything Nora had been through. But by around page 200, Atlas is already confessing his love to her. They reconnect on page 103, so the timeline felt way too fast. After what Nora survived, I just don’t think she had enough time to breathe, let alone fall into a relationship. I wanted to see her heal, to find joy and strength in herself before jumping into love.
The book started strong, and with over 400 pages, I thought we’d get more of Nora’s personal growth. Instead, the focus shifted quickly to her and Atlas as a couple. I wish we had gotten to see more of Nora coming into her outside of a romantic relationship.
Scarlet... I’m still not sure how to feel about her. She was often unnecessarily mean—borderline cruel—and her reaction to Atlas having Nora’s diary (immediately accusing him of being into her) just felt odd and uncalled for, especially since Atlas and Nora hadn’t seen each other in years. Also, the banter between Scarlet and Ellis didn’t quite hit for me
On a lighter note, the Psych reference made me smile.
There are not enough stars out to explain how much I enjoyed this book. Not enough diary entries to describe how these characters made me feel with their hurt, their hope, their strength and their love and acceptance. L.K. Farlow has stepped up her story telling with a whole new twist with a darker theme, a villain that has no chance at redemption, and a brave young woman who becomes her own hero while finally discovering what it means to have someone who wants to protect her no matter the cost. I have voluntarily left this review.
🌼 Stepbrother x heroine on the run 📖 Protective hero 🌼 Slow burn 📖 Diary entries 🌼 Small town romance 📖 Romantic suspens 🌼 Forced proximity 📖 No third act break up
His To Save is one of those emotional, can't-put-it-down haunting reads that hits you right in the heart. It’s intense, raw, and full of hope all at once. This isn't just a love story, it’s about survival, healing, and finding strength in the most unexpected place: in the arms of the man who should’ve been off-limits.
The story follows Nora, a young woman who’s been through absolute hell, isolated, controlled, and abused by the man who was supposed to protect her, her stepfather. Pregnant and desperate, she finally escapes and runs to the only person she thinks might help her: Atlas. Her stepbrother (yeah, I know but they’re not blood related). Her forbidden safe haven. He’s older, protective, and the definition of “touch her and die” energy. When Nora runs to him, he doesn’t hesitate. He's the kind of man who makes her feel safe just by walking into a room. Ex-military, older, protective, and broody with a hidden soft side that comes out only for her. He doesn’t push, doesn’t demand. He just shows up. Over and over again. His love isn’t loud, it’s steady. And when he looks at her like she hung the damn moon? Whew. He sees her in a way no one else ever has.
The chemistry between them builds slowly but beautifully. but when it ignites? It burns. Their chemistry is explosive, raw, consuming, and layered with so much emotion that every kiss feels like a turning point. But more than the spice, which is definitely there, what makes this story so powerful is the healing, rebuilding trust, and emotional depth. Nora’s journey is painful but empowering. Watching her find her voice, figuring out what love can look like after trauma and rebuild herself piece by piece is beautiful. There’s a lot of heavy stuff in here, but it’s written with so much care and heart. Please check the trigger warnings. Emotions are valuable and your mental health matters.
PS: Ellis? Here me out. While I absolutely adored everything about the book, I do think Ellis would have been the perfect addition to the couple, as an MFM. I know he’s invested in her and not interested but he fits in so rightly, I thought about it every. time.
If you're into romance with real emotional depth, a fierce heroine, a protective hero, and a storyline that tackles tough topics in a respectful way, this one’s for you. His To Save will wreck you in the best way. Just have some tissues handy. 💔❤️🔥
Thank you L.K Farlow and The Author Agency for this ARC opportunity! I can't thank you enough. I volunteered to review.
WOW I was not expecting the power of this story.!! Nora and Atlas's romance is not an easy road and I could have never imagined it would be this heart stopping. Atlas's Dad Rand marries Nora's Mother Grace and it is the biggest mistake that Grace could have ever made for herself and her daughter. Rand is evil he is the kind of monster that hides behind a fake persona,hidden in the shadows and manipulates so subtely you don't realise he is poisoning your life and destroying you. Nora's life is HELL... Some of this story is told through Nora's Diary entires and reading those broke my heart,you can feel Nora's despair and grief...I wanted to reach inside the pages and rescue her from her nightmare. I connected with Nora so felt very emotional. Atlas finds Nora's diary and begins reading her accounts of the years her Mother was married to Rand and after when she died. The story takes a sinister turn when it is revealed the abuse Nora suffered...I was shocked whilst reading because I never thought that this was the road this book was taking. HEED THE TRIGGER WARNINGS if you are a sensitive reader. Now Nora is missing and Rand is missing and Atlas is on a mission to find Nora..! I don't want to say too much and yet I want to tell you everything so you will read this book. It had me captivated from the start,I was hooked and on the edge of my seat wondering what would happen next. Each chapter had me riveted,it is pretty brutal and unsettling the extent of what Nora went through.Plus there are more curveballs than you can imagine.. But don't despair it is not all doom and gloom there are light moments, and loving emotional moments. Atlas is so swoony the way he takes care of Nora made my heart so happy he was so patient,understanding,protective and sweet.He is totally smitten with Nora and I love the way Nora slowly begins to find her voice and confidence under Atlas's love...They also share some steamy intimate times to..!! I have read quite a few of L.K Farlow's books and I have to say the writing in this book is some of her best work. His To Save is Beauty,Tragedy,heartbreak and joy in one spellbinding package...I thoroughly enjoyed reading it even though it made me go through a tirade of emotions..from wanting to kick Rand's ass ,to crying like a baby,to smiling at the romance between Nora and Atlas and laughing at Ellis and Scarletts banter(Atlas's Friends). This is an Excellent book that I highly recommend. LOved it. 5 Stars.
L. K. Farlow delivers an emotionally charged and deeply moving standalone novel in His to Save, the captivating first installment of the Lake Fortune series. This isn't your typical lighthearted romance; it's a raw, poignant journey that meticulously peels back layers of trauma to reveal the enduring power of hope and healing. Farlow doesn't shy away from the darkness, beginning with a chilling premise: a Npra's innocence stolen, her life isolated and tormented by the very man who should have protected her. The chilling detail of her diary as a sole companion paints a stark picture of her years of suffering, immediately drawing the reader into her desperate plight.
The story truly ignites when two pink lines force Nora to confront her terrifying reality and seek escape. Her vulnerability is palpable, making her eventual flight both harrowing and heroic. It's at this crucial juncture that Atlas, the son of her tormentor, enters the scene, offering an unexpected lifeline. Farlow masterfully builds the dynamic between them, cultivating a slow-burn romance steeped in mutual trust and genuine connection. Atlas is the epitome of the protective hero, utterly devoted to safeguarding her and her unborn child. His unwavering resolve to prove he's nothing like his father is a central, compelling theme, providing a beacon of light in her shattered world.
His to Save excels in its exploration of heavy themes—isolation, abuse, and the arduous path to recovery—yet it never feels overwhelming. Instead, it’s a testament to the resilience of the human spirit and the transformative power of love. The small-town suspense elements keep the tension simmering, always reminding you of the lurking danger, while the age gap adds another layer of intriguing complexity to their burgeoning relationship. Farlow’s writing is evocative, stitching together fragments of fear and flickers of tenderness into a cohesive narrative. The journey towards healing is neither rushed nor simplistic, making the eventual guaranteed happily ever after incredibly satisfying and hard-won. If you're seeking a romance that delves deep, challenges emotions, and celebrates profound healing, His to Save is a powerful read that will resonate long after the final page.
Disclaimer: I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Please check the trigger warnings before diving in.
His to Save is an age-gap, insta-love contemporary romance packed with angst, suspense, and emotional upheaval. Nora is a survivor clawing her way back from trauma, and Atlas is the ever-watchful protector who wants to keep her safe. Her diary entries were a standout, offering an intimate glimpse into her past and healing journey.
The supporting cast added flavor. Ellis brought some much-needed comic relief, while Scarlett stirred the pot in the best messy way. And the sparks between those two? Electric. I’m already casting them in their own book.
As for the central romance, it had potential but needed more time to simmer. Their connection felt rushed, especially considering Nora’s trauma. The emotional transitions happened too quickly, and the story didn’t fully explore the depth of their bond. The suspense occasionally overshadowed the romance, and I was left wanting a more balanced, thoughtful progression.
The plot had heart, but the pacing was uneven, and character development felt skimmed over. We were told they were falling in love, but we weren’t really shown the emotional build-up that makes it feel real. Atlas’s protectiveness was endearing, but the shift from rescue to romance needed more space to breathe.
Still, despite its flaws, it was an emotionally intense ride with a satisfying happily ever after. Readers looking for a dramatic, fast-paced romance with high stakes and characters you want to root for may still find this story hits the mark.
What to Expect: 🌻 He’s OTT Protective & Obsessed with Her 🌻 Pregnant Heroine on the Run 🌻 A Slow Burn Romance that Brings the Heat 🌻 She’s Stringer than She Knows 🌻 Stepbrother Romance 🌻 Diary Entries with All of the Feels
Thank you to LK Farlow, the author, and The Author Agency team for the ARC opportunity!
Wow, what a book! This is my first book by K Farlow and I can honestly say it did will not be my last. This was actually recommended to me by one of my bookclub girlies and I’m so glad I decided to read it because it was insanely good. Nora and Atlas are step siblings and Nora has been living with Atlas‘s dad, Rand since her mother married him. Her mother has since passed away under suspicious circumstances and what transpires next through Nora’s diary entries is that her stepdad has been abusing her. Atlas returns home and finds her diary in his postbox with a note that says please read me and when does he’s absolutely disgusted by what he reads. The diary entries end with Nora asking to be found at a certain place and Atlas heads straight there. When he gets there he finds Nora a shadow of a person and works so hard to gain her trust, she’s so frightened that he’s going to be just like his dad, but he turns out to be the complete opposite. His caring and loving and wants the absolute best for her and just to take care of Nora because he’s so unbelievably heartbroken about what his dad‘s done to her. It also turns out that Nora is also pregnant as a result of the abuse she suffered, Atlas takes on all of her worries and stress to look out for her and whilst doing that he develops deep feelings for Nora. His roommate Ellis also becomes a surrogate brother and the two of them help her to gain a confidence and trust in the world. God this book was a wild ride but the love that grows between Atlas and Nora is absolutely beautiful, he couldn’t have been the more perfect person to stand by her and look out for her, he tells her the baby is theirs and that he’ll be beside her always.
I’m so pleased that Ellis and Scarlett are going to get their time with their own book next too, the banter between these side characters was strong!
Absolutely devoured this in under 24 hours! It was amazing.
loved it.
5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ 🌶️🌶️
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
I'M OBSESSED!!!! This was the first book I read by LK Farlow and I will read anything she writes if it is as good as this book. I was hooked from the first page and I seriously DIDN'T want this book to end! I'm so in love with Atlas and Nora. The story and characters are well written.
Now everything isn't sunshine and rainbows in this book. If you have read a Jennifer Hartmann book before you will love this book. Make sure you check trigger warnings. This is a very emotional and traumatic book but will have so many beautiful moments intwined through out the story.
Atlas is Nora's step brother and one day he ends up finding her diary in his mail box. After reading some of it he realizes his dad isn't who he thought he was and she need help. After finding her he brings her back to his place where he lives with his best friend Elliott. These two will have a connection like no other.
Elliott is a cop and will become Nora's man BFF! These two were so much fun! I loved when they had scenes together. I also loved the bond him and Atlas had. Elliott is a great character and I can't wait to get to know him better.
This book will have you on an emotional rollercoaster but I promise you it's worth the ride. You will be swooning like crazy with Atlas. He's definitely book boyfriend material. This book will have you on the edge of your seat at times, it will break your heart but in the end it will leave you with a beautiful ending! If I could rate it more than 5 stars I would! I HIGHLY recommend this book. I can't wait to see what LK Farlow writes next!
Thank you LK Farlow and The Author Agency for allowing me to read this ARC for my honest opinion.
***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***
His to Save is an age gap, insta love, contemporary romance. There was a lot of angst, suspense, and a grueling journey through difficult emotional and mental trauma for Nora and Atlas. Atlas was a protective, attentive, and supportive hero while Nora was a fighter and survivor. It took time, and she probably need even more time, but she started to grow stronger every day. I liked reading Nora's diary entries. It was a unique way to get her personal story, past and present.
The supporting characters played a vital role. Ellis provided much needed humor in this emotionally intense story line. And Scarlett provided some drama and other tension that pulled us away from the heavy. Additionally, Scarlett and Ellis together was a complete distraction because the tension with those two was explosive, and I REALLY want to explore more of that!
I had been patiently waiting for this story for a long time. The story line was there and had loads of potential but fell short in its achievement. Firstly, I don't think this story was appropriate for insta-love. Don't get me wrong, I enjoyed their bond and their strong love for one another was much needed, but I think they needed way more depth in timeline, development AND character growth. Maybe if they had been closer before the incident, but they weren't so it was too fast, especially after the trauma and what not. Secondly, the ex-thing was kinda strange but it is what it is.
With all that said, I found it overall to be an entertaining and emotionally draining read with a guaranteed, and much deserved, happily every after for Atlas and Nora.
This book shattered me, and then piece by piece put me back together. This highly emotional story has several intense scenes, so please read the trigger warnings. But if you read this story you will ultimately be taken to a place of love, trust, and family. When Nora is 14 years old, her father dies and in an effort to help her, her mother who is a therapist, gives her a diary to record her innermost thoughts and feelings. This book becomes her lifeline, her only friend and the tool that could save her life. After, escaping from a violent, abusive stepfather, Nora leaves her diary for her stepbrother's roommate to find as he is in law enforcement. But her stepbrother, Atlas, finds the diary and reads it. Knowing something is very wrong, Ellis and Atlas rescue Nora and vow to protect her always. With her trust in Atlas growing, Nora also realizes that her feelings are growing too, and despite Atlas's reservations, he feels the same. With Nora so fearful, gaining her trust and getting her to agree to stay with him, is an uphill battle, but if they can battle through, there could be a beautiful life on the other side.
This book is heart wrenching. The past diary entries made me cry for the life that was taken from Nora and the present day entries made he happy for the life she was building. I could feel the emotion on the page and the love that grew between Nora and Atlas was beautifully sculpted to show the transformation from virtual strangers to family. If this book is any indication of what is to come in this series, I will need to brace myself and buy more tissues! This is a must, must read!!
His to Save, the captivating opening novel in the Lake Fortune series, is a standalone work by L. K. Farlow that is deeply moving and highly emotional. This is not a typical happy love story; instead, it is a poignant, raw journey that slowly uncovers the lasting strength of recovery and optimism by meticulously peeling away layers of sorrow. Farlow doesn't soften the grim reality, beginning with a chilling concept: Nora's purity is stolen, and the man who should have safeguarded her secludes and abuses her. The vivid details in her diary about her years of anguish as a solitary companion immediately plunge the reader into her despairing circumstances.
While the step-brother trope exists, it is not typical. For instance, Atlas notes that he met Nora just a handful of times, mentioning that she was around 13 or 14 when her parents tied the knot and he was already living his own life, resulting in limited interactions during her formative years.
Atlas and Nora felt an immediate attraction to each other. This is evidently an instant bond that is expanded upon throughout the book, yet I wouldn't label it as instant love. I appreciated their balance; despite all Nora has experienced, she still radiates a lightness that Atlas finds charming. Atlas acts as Nora's cornerstone; he provides her with a feeling of safety and compassion, remains patient with her, and consistently reminds her of her strength and resilience when he sees her withdrawing into herself. This is vital for Nora, who has witnessed it firsthand.
So… okay. This was my introduction to LK Farlow, and I’m thinking I wasn’t the intended audience. It had some tropes that I’m all about, such as forced proximity, touch her and die, and small town romance. I’m even okay with age gaps, but this was… a bit much? Most of the age gap stories I’ve read, she’s at least in her early 20s; however, here, she’s 18, and he’s in his mid-20s.
This felt like a bit of an insta-love story, although it’s listed as a slow burn. The writing was okay, but some of it felt a bit stilted. I was down for the premise, but the execution was lacking. I adored Atlas, and Nora deserved happiness after everything she’s been through. Ellis was the highlight for me, though. He added the comic relief when it was needed. I didn’t really like Scarlet, but she had her moments. Deep down, she was a good person, but she could be a handful at times.
I don’t know if this needed to be over 400 pages; however. What I really loved, though, was getting Nora’s backstory in the form of diary entries. That was very well done. Nora’s character development felt sped up. I do wish that Nora’s character development had happened over the course of the 400+ pages because it really felt like it happened overnight.
With all that said, I can see people raving about this story. It does have characters you really want to root for, and a villain you’ll despise. I do believe this book has an audience… I just don’t think it’s me. The author does provide trigger warnings: HEED THEM! This book will be available on Kindle Unlimited.
Okay, so the second I saw this ARC mention forbidden/taboo vibes, I was like, yep, gimme that. 😂 But wow... I was not ready for the emotional rollercoaster this book threw on me. His to Save by LK Farlow seriously grabs your heart and refuses to let go.
Nora’s story? Heartbreaking. It’s heavy. Her stepdad is actual nightmare, and the only way she can really cope is by pouring it all into her diary. Then Atlas...yes, her stepbrother...finds it, and everything changes.
This book is dark and emotional in the best kind of way. Nora is one of those quietly strong heroines who breaks your heart and makes you root for her so hard. And Atlas? Total protector mode. He’s the kind of guy who’d set the world on fire to keep her safe.
It’s told in dual POV, and we get glimpses into Nora’s diary...which, not gonna lie, completely wrecked me. The story tackles some super tough topics, so definitely check those trigger warnings. Most of the trauma isn’t shown directly, but it still hits hard. That said, it’s handled with so much care, and there’s a really nice balance between the dark moments and the healing.
Also, Ellis. Comic relief king. Love that guy.
This isn’t your typical stepbrother/age gap romance. It’s deeper, rawer, and packed with emotion. LK Farlow gave us a story that’s heartbreaking, hopeful, and ultimately so healing. Nora and Atlas earned their HEA, and I was cheering for them the whole way.
This book by LK Farlow is mighty fine,it has a brilliantly detailed storyline. It’s told really well ,in fact I think all this author’s storytelling is compelling as all heck . I can’t wait to see what she comes up with next…First in the Lake Fortune series and it already appeases. Abused by a monster of a stepfather who abused her and locked her away . This ain’t no Cinderella story but it’s close ,but the hero comes from an unexpected source.Atlas swears to Nora that he’s nothing like his cad of a dad and those pink lines on that stick means he’s going nowhere , cards close to his chest ,he decides to stick because it’s for the best. But what of the threats from his dear old dad? He’s going to hurt him where he feels the most pain,he’s got lots to gain and make amends for because of his evil pa. Excellently penned by L.K.Farlow this blew me away . On him she can depend , could he really be more than friend? Wonderful! Loved every single page and I don’t mind saying with I was in a rage. I was so immersed ,I cursed! See what you do to me LK with your perfect prose ? I am so happy that this book I chose to read . For Nora I felt sorry for very much indeed. And thus the need to read to conclusion and with a little romance and an heart full of gold ,this knight in shining amour was a hero to behold . I loved this story ,so will you .
This book has so much potential to be 5 stars book for me. However I sadly could only give 4 stars. To be bluntly honest, actual rating is 3,5 stars. The first 15% of the book was so good. I got hook on it. I even cried so many times just 15% through the story. Speaking of it, please please and please check trigger warnings before reading this book because this book contained really heavy matters. Yet, after the 15% passed, the story was going down so bad. It was so messy. Some were good messy but the others just messy messy. I didn't understand why and how Atlas ended up have feeling for Nora and I didn't have any idea why Nora loved Atlas beside the reason of Atlas "saved" her. Then there was the ex, Atlas' ex, issue. It was so messy and confusing. She ended up being very good-ish(?) but still it was so random and not well delivered. I usually didn't care enough about plot holes but damn the plot holes in this book were too much to ignore. It ended up so anticlimactic. I was disappointed. I am 80% sure the next book is Ellis book. He was so good and so funny in here. So finger cross his book will be better than this book. Despite the downs throughout my reading experience with this book, I was partially having a good time.
Thank you to L. K. Farlow and The Author Agency for the ARC.