Kayley Carson thought she had it all…married to the love of her life, a great job, and a baby on the way. Then one day, her life changes forever when she loses her husband in a tragic accident. No longer sure how to navigate life after her enormous loss, Kayley clings to her newborn baby, her family, and her friends to keep herself living.

When she meets someone that challenges her belief that she’s better off alone, she has to decide if she is capable of letting him in after swearing she was never going to love anyone the same way again.

She’s not the only one with a painful past. He is struggling with trust issues after a previous relationship went horribly wrong. After a terrible misunderstanding brings out both of their insecurities, will the painful memories of the past keep them both from living again?

About the Author

L.L. Collins was born and raised in the eternal summer state of Florida. She lives with her high school sweetheart husband and is driven mad daily by her two teenage boys, but her princess dog is her favorite child and kind of makes up for the testosterone flying around her house. LL has been writing since she was old enough to write. Always a story in her head, almost six years ago she made her lifelong dream of becoming an author come true in the self-publishing world. She’s the author of contemporary romance novels. Look for more of her emotionally charged novels exclusively on Amazon!

Review

I recently came across this book after so many of my fellow bloggers were raving about it. So, I figured what the heck, let me try this baby out. Let me just say that this book was absolutely phenomenal!! I am completely and utterly shocked at how great this book truly is. Just reading the description, I knew to be prepared with tissues to alleviate the water works…well, I was not prepared enough. Wow! Let’s start from the beginning…

Kayley Carlson’s life was perfect. She had a great job, adoring parents, a cute little house, an amazing husband, and a baby on the way. How sweet right?? Psst, yeah I was jealous. lol. Unfortunately, her life took a horrible turn and her husband Alex passes away after being involved in a deadly car accident; only one month before her due date. This all happens within the first chapters. L.L. Collins had me balling like a baby; I could not help it. I felt crushed and defeated. I wanted to cry right along-side Kayley. How can someone go through all that and still survive; let alone, take care of a newborn?? With the help of her parents and her best friend, Emily, Kayley raises her daughter, Alexis as a widow. But, she’s not exactly “living”. She’s stagnant, stalemate, oblivious to her surroundings. She goes through each day as a robot, hidden from the world and sheltered as her heart is still trying to piece itself back together.

It’s one year later and Alex’s suits are still in the closet; his shoes are still by the door; his cologne is still on the nightstand; Kayley hasn’t recovered yet. On her daughter’s first birthday, Kayley is rushed to the hospital after Alexis has a seizure. She’s back in the same hospital where her husband died a year ago; except this time, her daughter is the patient. Luckily, LL.Collins is not that cruel and little baby Alexis is all healthy. This whole scene, I was on the edge of my seat. Talk about anxiety attack!!

Then, Dr. Ben Nichols arrives and there is an instant attraction between him and Kayley. Ben tries to get to know Kayley better but she’s scared of opening up to people again. She has lost so much, how can she even think about dating someone? It’s just too soon for her. She can’t forget her husband. But with the help of Emily, Ben is given the chance to prove to Kayley that he can show her, not only to love again, but to live again.

The love story between them is so moving and magical; but yet believable at the same time. Ben is such a sweetheart and a true gentleman. From the very beginning, he cared for both Kayley and Alexis deeply. Plus he has a bangin hot body, a kick-ass Camaro, and a great job as a pediatrician. Oh and don’t forget all of the romantic gestures. I just loved Dr. Yummy!! I might even have my husband read this book, so he can get a few pointers…lol. The love scenes were hot but not too erotic which was good. It was more about the emotion than the physical connections, and I loved that!

Kayley is such a strong character, yet she didn’t even know it. I think that’s why I connected with her the most. Even though she lost her husband and her life was practically crap, she didn’t blame the world. She kept on going as best she could. I also loved all of the supporting characters; especially Emily and Rachel. They are the best friends a girl could ask for…always trying to do what’s right for you, even though you might not agree.

I was so glued to this book; I stayed up until 4am just to finish it!! Yes, it’s that freakin’ good!!! I am so happy I read this book. Yes, its a tear jerker; actually it made me ugly cry. After finishing the novel, my husband asked me about it, and as I was describing the plot, I cried again! L.L. Collins, what have you done to me? It is about 24 hours later, and I kid you not, I could probably cry right now. But it’s not sad tears; its tears of happiness and joy! Happiness for reading such an awesome love story and joy for being so proud of L.L. Collins. I cannot believe this is her debut novel! This story rocked!! All I can say, is that I am an official “fan” of hers; well, actually more like stalker…lol

This book is on my list of top 5 books I have read this year and I’ve read almost 100 books this year! Everyone needs to read this book. Just do it!!

I cannot wait until the next book, Reaching Rachel comes out next year…whoohoo!

Congratulations on your debut L.L. Collins! You truly are an amazing and talented author and you have just gained a new fan! <3

by Jane
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