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Excess All Areas #5
Let Me Love You
Chaya
The wedding plans are underway, and the Save the Date cards are sent. If only the man she was marrying was the man she loved with all her heart.
Being a contemporary woman in a traditional faith requires compromise. Being in love with her best friend, Sad Fridays’ guitarist Ben King, the man who saved her years ago, is agony. It’s official. He has ruined her for all other men.
Ben
He’s never fallen off the stage while drunk, until the Save The Date card lands on his door mat.
Despite loving Chaya forever, her father made it crystal clear. Ben will never be the one for his daughter.
Now she’s marrying another man, and Ben is beginning to wonder just when Chaya will realise it’s him she should be saying I do to.
When tragedy reunites them, Chaya is caught between her fiancé and her love. And it’s up to Ben to fight for Chaya or let her go forever.
The wedding plans are underway, and the Save the Date cards are sent. If only the man she was marrying was the man she loved with all her heart.
Being a contemporary woman in a traditional faith requires compromise. Being in love with her best friend, Sad Fridays’ guitarist Ben King, the man who saved her years ago, is agony. It’s official. He has ruined her for all other men.
Ben
He’s never fallen off the stage while drunk, until the Save The Date card lands on his door mat.
Despite loving Chaya forever, her father made it crystal clear. Ben will never be the one for his daughter.
Now she’s marrying another man, and Ben is beginning to wonder just when Chaya will realise it’s him she should be saying I do to.
When tragedy reunites them, Chaya is caught between her fiancé and her love. And it’s up to Ben to fight for Chaya or let her go forever.
Kindle Edition
First published August 30, 2022
About the author
Scarlett Cole
30 books1,869 followersFour-time RITA finalist, Scarlett Cole, is a contemporary romantic suspense / contemporary romance author (represented by Louise Fury at The Bent Agency) who calls both Toronto, Canada and Manchester, England home. A born city dweller, she periodically quashes the urge to live in the country by hiking up a mountain to remind herself that living away from people would terrify the pants off her.
She believes everybody deserves their love story to be told and loves her heroes on the rough and rugged side…and usually tall (because she married one of those 6ft 6” men you read about in romance!). She’s an A-type personality and Scorpio star sign, so good luck getting her to do anything she doesn’t want to.
When she isn’t writing, she’s happy to talk hot men and expensive shoes while drinking a cold gin and tonic. Don’t bring up olives. As far as Scarlett is concerned, they are the devil’s food. As long as you don’t bring up olives, she’s happy to hear from any time.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarlettcole/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itsscarlettcole
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ItsScarlettCole
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2FNTzyC
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/scarl...
Newsletter sign-up: http://www.scarlettcole.com/contact
If you want to know more about Scarlett's books, visit her at:
www.scarlettcole.com
She believes everybody deserves their love story to be told and loves her heroes on the rough and rugged side…and usually tall (because she married one of those 6ft 6” men you read about in romance!). She’s an A-type personality and Scorpio star sign, so good luck getting her to do anything she doesn’t want to.
When she isn’t writing, she’s happy to talk hot men and expensive shoes while drinking a cold gin and tonic. Don’t bring up olives. As far as Scarlett is concerned, they are the devil’s food. As long as you don’t bring up olives, she’s happy to hear from any time.
Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/scarlettcole/
Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/itsscarlettcole
Twitter: https://twitter.com/ItsScarlettCole
Amazon: https://amzn.to/2FNTzyC
BookBub: https://www.bookbub.com/authors/scarl...
Newsletter sign-up: http://www.scarlettcole.com/contact
If you want to know more about Scarlett's books, visit her at:
www.scarlettcole.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 54 reviews
August 24, 2022
“Loving you has always been the easiest part of my life.”
5 angsty, emotional, beautiful stars!
The fifth and final book of the Excess All Areas series, this is an angsty, emotional, and beautiful friends-to-lovers romance that has had four books of build-up, and now we get to see it unfold with all the feels. It’s a wonderful finish to what has become one of my favourite rockstar series, and I loved every moment of this one!
Ben and Chaya have been the best of friends through the whole series. Though their friends suspect there is more to their friendship, they insist that they are strictly platonic, but the truth is actually way more complicated. They love each other, deeply, but they cannot be together due to Chaya’s religion. She is devout Jewish Orthodox, her family would never approve of Ben being in her life, and to continue living in the faith that means so much to her, she needs to marry a Jewish man. Their situation is one they are both aware of, so they have never really discussed their feelings for each other, knowing that it is pointless. But they are close as can be, and have been a part of each other’s lives since they were teenagers, Chaya there with Ben every step of the way as his band found success, fame, and more money than they ever could have dreamed of having.
But everything is about to change, because Chaya is engaged. Her fiancé is a fellow surgeon, a jewish man which her family whole-heartedly approve of. The problem is, she can’t forget about the man who actually holds her heart, and he is struggling without her.
It’s a devastating situation, and oh, how my heart ached for these two.
There is so much love between them, but they both have to walk away from it, and the tragedy of it all pretty much ripped my heart out. I read with tears rolling down my face as they finally admitted what they both knew all along, knowing how hopeless their situation truly is.
But when devastation strikes and Ben needs Chaya the most, she is there for him, bringing them back into each other’s lives and making them realise all that they’ve turned their backs on.
This is like a book in two parts – the first being angsty angsty and emotional, but I revelled in it, knowing that each moment of heartache would make their inevitable coming together even more epic. And God, I was right! The feels! Oh my God, the feels! I adored these two together so much. I love how honest and open they are, I love how they don’t hold anything back from each other, and I love how when they decide to go all in, they throw themselves all in.
Chaya’s battle is heartbreaking. When we found out she was engaged at the end of the last book, I was so angry, wondering how she could do that to our Ben! But seeing her side of the story really puts things into perspective, and I ached for how torn she was. Ben’s reaction to losing Chaya from his life is equally heartbreaking. He has always been the one to go out of his way to do so much for others, at his own expense, and that’s exactly what he does by letting Chaya go. So seeing him finally get the chance to fight for his girl and finally get to act on all of those feelings, is absolutely beautiful. He's so in love, and he’s so unquestionably devoted, and I adored the way he is with Chay.
Thankfully, we get to see plenty of time with them together and building their relationship, because that’s the swoony part that I love to see. It’s sweet, honest and heartfelt, sizzlingly passionate, and full of emotion, and they stand strong in the face of any and all external drama, and I loved the depth of their connection and the strength of their love for each other.
The rest of the band, and their girls, are all so involved in each other’s lives, so there’s lots of time spent with the characters from previous books. They’re all there supporting Ben and Chaya through their ups and down, and I loved seeing so much of them again. What was truly special for me was so many special moments between the boys – from the beautiful relationship between Ben and his brother, Alex, the jokey banter yet fully supportive brotherhood between the rest of the band, to those sensational moments where they are on stage doing what they love. I feel like I know these characters, and I adore each and every one of them.
And blessed Nan has an important part to play. She’s a wise and loving woman, and I loved her role in this book, and through the whole series as the stable force who kept these wild boys together, there for them whenever and however they needed her.
This is a wonderful finish to what has been an amazing series. I have loved each and every book, and this one ties up those last outstanding loose endings, giving us a glimpse of everybody living their well-deserved happy ending, finishing in grand style and leaving me feeling happy and completely satisfied.
I loved it. 5 stars!
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
5 angsty, emotional, beautiful stars!
The fifth and final book of the Excess All Areas series, this is an angsty, emotional, and beautiful friends-to-lovers romance that has had four books of build-up, and now we get to see it unfold with all the feels. It’s a wonderful finish to what has become one of my favourite rockstar series, and I loved every moment of this one!
Ben and Chaya have been the best of friends through the whole series. Though their friends suspect there is more to their friendship, they insist that they are strictly platonic, but the truth is actually way more complicated. They love each other, deeply, but they cannot be together due to Chaya’s religion. She is devout Jewish Orthodox, her family would never approve of Ben being in her life, and to continue living in the faith that means so much to her, she needs to marry a Jewish man. Their situation is one they are both aware of, so they have never really discussed their feelings for each other, knowing that it is pointless. But they are close as can be, and have been a part of each other’s lives since they were teenagers, Chaya there with Ben every step of the way as his band found success, fame, and more money than they ever could have dreamed of having.
But everything is about to change, because Chaya is engaged. Her fiancé is a fellow surgeon, a jewish man which her family whole-heartedly approve of. The problem is, she can’t forget about the man who actually holds her heart, and he is struggling without her.
“I don’t know how we became this, Chay. After everything we’ve been through. I never thought there’d be a day in my life without you in it. How did we end up like this? Barely talking. Awkward with each other. I hate it.”
It’s a devastating situation, and oh, how my heart ached for these two.
“I can’t ask you to not be who you are. And I can’t pretend to be something I’m not” … “Just be fucking happy, Chaya. If it hurts this bad, one of us should be.”
There is so much love between them, but they both have to walk away from it, and the tragedy of it all pretty much ripped my heart out. I read with tears rolling down my face as they finally admitted what they both knew all along, knowing how hopeless their situation truly is.
“We’ve got to fall out of love with each other by admitting that’s what we were.”
But when devastation strikes and Ben needs Chaya the most, she is there for him, bringing them back into each other’s lives and making them realise all that they’ve turned their backs on.
“I wanted you to choose me over everything else, even though I knew you wouldn’t.”
This is like a book in two parts – the first being angsty angsty and emotional, but I revelled in it, knowing that each moment of heartache would make their inevitable coming together even more epic. And God, I was right! The feels! Oh my God, the feels! I adored these two together so much. I love how honest and open they are, I love how they don’t hold anything back from each other, and I love how when they decide to go all in, they throw themselves all in.
He cupped her cheeks carefully. “You ready?” he asked, tilting her head towards his.
“For us? Yes. I feel like I waited a lifetime already.”
Chaya’s battle is heartbreaking. When we found out she was engaged at the end of the last book, I was so angry, wondering how she could do that to our Ben! But seeing her side of the story really puts things into perspective, and I ached for how torn she was. Ben’s reaction to losing Chaya from his life is equally heartbreaking. He has always been the one to go out of his way to do so much for others, at his own expense, and that’s exactly what he does by letting Chaya go. So seeing him finally get the chance to fight for his girl and finally get to act on all of those feelings, is absolutely beautiful. He's so in love, and he’s so unquestionably devoted, and I adored the way he is with Chay.
“We’ve always loved each other and now we want to try being in love with each other.”
Thankfully, we get to see plenty of time with them together and building their relationship, because that’s the swoony part that I love to see. It’s sweet, honest and heartfelt, sizzlingly passionate, and full of emotion, and they stand strong in the face of any and all external drama, and I loved the depth of their connection and the strength of their love for each other.
“When you let me love you like that… Your trust in me and us devastates me, babe.”
The rest of the band, and their girls, are all so involved in each other’s lives, so there’s lots of time spent with the characters from previous books. They’re all there supporting Ben and Chaya through their ups and down, and I loved seeing so much of them again. What was truly special for me was so many special moments between the boys – from the beautiful relationship between Ben and his brother, Alex, the jokey banter yet fully supportive brotherhood between the rest of the band, to those sensational moments where they are on stage doing what they love. I feel like I know these characters, and I adore each and every one of them.
And blessed Nan has an important part to play. She’s a wise and loving woman, and I loved her role in this book, and through the whole series as the stable force who kept these wild boys together, there for them whenever and however they needed her.
“Love always leads you to the person who completes you. Not this two halves of a whole bullshit. But the person whose presence just makes you the best version of yourself. Life, however, leads you on a merry fucking dance so you don’t know which way is up. Sometimes, you make good decisions. Sometimes, you make purely selfish ones. Sometimes, life doesn’t work out the way you hoped. Sometimes, it knocks you on your arse. But every time, love finds your battered heart and brings you home.”
This is a wonderful finish to what has been an amazing series. I have loved each and every book, and this one ties up those last outstanding loose endings, giving us a glimpse of everybody living their well-deserved happy ending, finishing in grand style and leaving me feeling happy and completely satisfied.
I loved it. 5 stars!
An Advanced Review Copy was generously provided by the author in exchange for an honest review.
August 30, 2022
I’ve said this countless times, but it bears repeating,
Scarlett Cole is a master word wizard
and it is beyond my comprehension how millions of readers are not reading her work. Has every single story she has ever penned made my heart & mind explode? I’m sure not, but one thing I can always count on from Scarlett is a story with circumstances that are very well researched and presented respectfully. Every.Single.Time.
I’m not a very religious person, but I’m educated and well read and from that alone, I can assure you that the religious circumstance that is part of this story is very well depicted and represented. Unless you understand the stronghold devout faith can have on someone, I’m not sure how you could even begin to understand any of Chaya’s motivations or even her circumstances. That being said, did I enjoy reading so much of this stronghold? No, not really. Do I feel it is a true depiction of what a person might go thru, yes, but I would have preferred it not be so much of the story.
In all honesty, that’s the only quibble I have with this story and that’s only because it took away from the time we had with Chaya & Ben together. Because of this, I spent quite a bit of my reading time frustrated with the story. It’s impossible to say much else in regards to this without giving away plot points but I thought it only fair to mention because it is the only reason this book is not getting 5 stars.
I’m a little sad to say goodbye to the Excess All Areas family but I also know it’s the beginning (hopefully) of new things to come from Scarlett and I am always here for that!
I’m not a very religious person, but I’m educated and well read and from that alone, I can assure you that the religious circumstance that is part of this story is very well depicted and represented. Unless you understand the stronghold devout faith can have on someone, I’m not sure how you could even begin to understand any of Chaya’s motivations or even her circumstances. That being said, did I enjoy reading so much of this stronghold? No, not really. Do I feel it is a true depiction of what a person might go thru, yes, but I would have preferred it not be so much of the story.
In all honesty, that’s the only quibble I have with this story and that’s only because it took away from the time we had with Chaya & Ben together. Because of this, I spent quite a bit of my reading time frustrated with the story. It’s impossible to say much else in regards to this without giving away plot points but I thought it only fair to mention because it is the only reason this book is not getting 5 stars.
I’m a little sad to say goodbye to the Excess All Areas family but I also know it’s the beginning (hopefully) of new things to come from Scarlett and I am always here for that!
September 3, 2022
Let Me Love You was an awesome read. I enjoyed Chaya and Ben’s journey. It dealt with heavy subject but it didn’t feel heavy. It was also sweet, sexy and wonderful.
Copy won in a contest
Copy won in a contest
August 31, 2022
LET ME LOVE YOU is the fifth and final instalment in Scarlett Cole’s contemporary, adult EXCESS ALL AREAS erotic, rock romance series focusing on the members of the rock band SAD FRIDAYS. This is Dr. Chaya Tobias, and rock musician/mechanic Benjamin ‘Ben’ King’s story. Line. LET ME LOVE YOU can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but for back story and cohesion, I recommend reading the series in order.
Told from dual third person perspectives (Chaya and Ben) with a final chapter from Nan, LET ME LOVE YOU follows the second chance romance and relationship between best friends Dr. Chaya Tobias, and rock musician/mechanic Ben King. Approximately fifteen years earlier, a then sixteen year old Ben King rescued an eleven year old Chaya Tobias from a sexual predator, and in the years that followed Ben and Chaya’s relationship went from friendship to love but as Ben and Chaya’s lives went in different directions, so too did Chaya’s family’s demands for our story line heroine. Chaya Tobias was as an Orthodox Jew, and her family expected their daughter to remain faithful to her beliefs and marry another Orthodox Jew. As Ben King was more or less a non-believer in organized religion, Ben was not seen as an acceptable mate, and Chaya’s family pushed our heroine in another direction. A quick engagement, and an even quicker date for Chaya’s wedding sent our hero into a downward spiral wherein Ben would have to recover with his family at home but a family emergency pulls Chaya back into Benjamin’s life, a life that continues to struggle without the woman he loves. What ensues is the rebuilding friendship, and romance between Chaya and Ben, and the potential fall-out as the ramifications of Chaya and Ben’s relationship begin to take its’ toll on our story line couple.
Ben King has been in love with Chaya Tobias for as long as he can remember but Ben did not follow the Jewish faith, and he would never be accepted by Chaya’s family. A case of religious discrimination, Ben found himself watching from the sidelines as the woman he loved became engaged to another man. Chaya was doing herself and her fiancé a disservice, knowing she would forever, be in love with someone else. With the band on a one month tour in America, the time apart made Chaya reflect on what was and what may never be.
The relationship between Chaya and Ben is a friends to lovers wherein Chaya’s family tried to control our story line heroine but Ben would point out the reality of their situation, a reality that forces the Tobias family to look long and hard at their own preconceived notions. Chaya has never stopped loving our story line hero but marrying someone else meant not be true to herself. The $ex scenes are intimate and intense, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
All of the previous story line couples play secondary and supporting characters. We are reintroduced to Nan aka Rhoda Palmer, as well as Chaya’s parents Issur and Anna.
LET ME LOVE YOU is a story of family, friendships, relationships and love; religion and ethnicity, preconceived notions, acceptance and love. The premise is emotional and heart breaking; the romance is seductive and fated; the characters are struggling, charismatic, and determined.
www.thereadingcafe.com
Told from dual third person perspectives (Chaya and Ben) with a final chapter from Nan, LET ME LOVE YOU follows the second chance romance and relationship between best friends Dr. Chaya Tobias, and rock musician/mechanic Ben King. Approximately fifteen years earlier, a then sixteen year old Ben King rescued an eleven year old Chaya Tobias from a sexual predator, and in the years that followed Ben and Chaya’s relationship went from friendship to love but as Ben and Chaya’s lives went in different directions, so too did Chaya’s family’s demands for our story line heroine. Chaya Tobias was as an Orthodox Jew, and her family expected their daughter to remain faithful to her beliefs and marry another Orthodox Jew. As Ben King was more or less a non-believer in organized religion, Ben was not seen as an acceptable mate, and Chaya’s family pushed our heroine in another direction. A quick engagement, and an even quicker date for Chaya’s wedding sent our hero into a downward spiral wherein Ben would have to recover with his family at home but a family emergency pulls Chaya back into Benjamin’s life, a life that continues to struggle without the woman he loves. What ensues is the rebuilding friendship, and romance between Chaya and Ben, and the potential fall-out as the ramifications of Chaya and Ben’s relationship begin to take its’ toll on our story line couple.
Ben King has been in love with Chaya Tobias for as long as he can remember but Ben did not follow the Jewish faith, and he would never be accepted by Chaya’s family. A case of religious discrimination, Ben found himself watching from the sidelines as the woman he loved became engaged to another man. Chaya was doing herself and her fiancé a disservice, knowing she would forever, be in love with someone else. With the band on a one month tour in America, the time apart made Chaya reflect on what was and what may never be.
The relationship between Chaya and Ben is a friends to lovers wherein Chaya’s family tried to control our story line heroine but Ben would point out the reality of their situation, a reality that forces the Tobias family to look long and hard at their own preconceived notions. Chaya has never stopped loving our story line hero but marrying someone else meant not be true to herself. The $ex scenes are intimate and intense, without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
All of the previous story line couples play secondary and supporting characters. We are reintroduced to Nan aka Rhoda Palmer, as well as Chaya’s parents Issur and Anna.
LET ME LOVE YOU is a story of family, friendships, relationships and love; religion and ethnicity, preconceived notions, acceptance and love. The premise is emotional and heart breaking; the romance is seductive and fated; the characters are struggling, charismatic, and determined.
www.thereadingcafe.com
August 9, 2022
Scarlett Cole is back with the final Sad Friday’s book and fair warning, if you want a book to rip your heart out, stomp on it, shove it back in and grow 5 sizes then this book is for you. This book was everything we have been waiting for and so much more. 5 stars does not even come close to covering how good this book is. It’s book perfection if you ask me.
To say I loved this book is far too much of an understatement. I wanted the HEA for Ben and Chaya and I was not disappointed one bit by their story. I cried, laughed, cried a little more, got hot and bothered, laughed at Nan’s antics and melted more than once over something so small but meaningful it was everything.
The author has a way of pulling all the emotions from you and engaging you in the story so well that you feel like you are part of the narrative and there for everything that happens from the breath holding moments to the ones that make you smile so big while you are tearing up with joy at the same time.
This book ripped my heart out and dragged it all over the place and I don’t regret a minute because I really felt Ben and Chaya’s story deep. Sure there were moments when I was in tears and wishing it would all be better now, but I knew they had to go through the tough times to get to the happily ever after which these characters so richly deserve.
I’ll be honest here and not go on much more, this book gutted me, made me stupid happy, made me cry far too often and grin just as much but every word was worth it. There is no possible way that my measly words could do this book justice. Scarlett Cole has written the perfect ending to a series that has been captivating from the start till the very last ugly cry inducing end. Do not miss it!
To say I loved this book is far too much of an understatement. I wanted the HEA for Ben and Chaya and I was not disappointed one bit by their story. I cried, laughed, cried a little more, got hot and bothered, laughed at Nan’s antics and melted more than once over something so small but meaningful it was everything.
The author has a way of pulling all the emotions from you and engaging you in the story so well that you feel like you are part of the narrative and there for everything that happens from the breath holding moments to the ones that make you smile so big while you are tearing up with joy at the same time.
This book ripped my heart out and dragged it all over the place and I don’t regret a minute because I really felt Ben and Chaya’s story deep. Sure there were moments when I was in tears and wishing it would all be better now, but I knew they had to go through the tough times to get to the happily ever after which these characters so richly deserve.
I’ll be honest here and not go on much more, this book gutted me, made me stupid happy, made me cry far too often and grin just as much but every word was worth it. There is no possible way that my measly words could do this book justice. Scarlett Cole has written the perfect ending to a series that has been captivating from the start till the very last ugly cry inducing end. Do not miss it!
August 18, 2022
THIS IS HOW YOU END A SERIES!!! WHAT A FINALE.
Oh my, I’m still in awe! Riding a high that only true love can make me feel.
We finally get to see Ben and Chaya get their HEA, and what a masterpiece it is!
Chaya is engaged to an Jew doctor her family matched her with. Ben got the Save the Date card on Christmas Day and he’s immediately lost in his sorrows. After reaching rock bottom, Ben knows he has to stop thinking about Chaya. Can he really let her go?
I’m not a fan of love triangles but Scarlett did an outstanding job handling the hardships of having three people in love and only having room for two.
Ben and Chaya are everything that is right in this world. Ben is beyond perfection, the right amount of cinnamon roll, little Dom added to the mix, another splash of damaged hero and we get a man so amazing, it’s sad to see his book come to an end.
I loved to see Chaya’s struggles with her faith and her devotion to her family but also coming to terms with the fact that her feelings are valid and should be her priority.
There’s not a single detail in this book that isn’t perfect. We get Nan front and center being the amazing Matriarch for this family. We get a cherry on top with a wedding and all our boys madly in love.
Thank you, Scarlett for this amazing ride. I couldn’t ask for a better way to end this fabulous series than this book.
Oh my, I’m still in awe! Riding a high that only true love can make me feel.
We finally get to see Ben and Chaya get their HEA, and what a masterpiece it is!
Chaya is engaged to an Jew doctor her family matched her with. Ben got the Save the Date card on Christmas Day and he’s immediately lost in his sorrows. After reaching rock bottom, Ben knows he has to stop thinking about Chaya. Can he really let her go?
I’m not a fan of love triangles but Scarlett did an outstanding job handling the hardships of having three people in love and only having room for two.
Ben and Chaya are everything that is right in this world. Ben is beyond perfection, the right amount of cinnamon roll, little Dom added to the mix, another splash of damaged hero and we get a man so amazing, it’s sad to see his book come to an end.
I loved to see Chaya’s struggles with her faith and her devotion to her family but also coming to terms with the fact that her feelings are valid and should be her priority.
There’s not a single detail in this book that isn’t perfect. We get Nan front and center being the amazing Matriarch for this family. We get a cherry on top with a wedding and all our boys madly in love.
Thank you, Scarlett for this amazing ride. I couldn’t ask for a better way to end this fabulous series than this book.
August 18, 2022
Wow! I don't know what else to say. But boy this is how you end a series. A series that has just got better and better. With characters that have grown and who you can relate too. This is a beautifully heart wrenching romance.
As Ben and Chaya are in love with each other, everyone can see that. But Chaya is a Jewish girl whose life was forever changed as an eleven-year-old when she was kidnapped and then rescued by Ben. And because of this they have a relationship like no other and one that no one understands apart from maybe Ben's Nan the lynch pin of this series.
Yet, Chaya's faith means she must marry a Jewish man and so she finds herself engaged to Asher. Who along with her father despises Ben and the relationship Chaya shares with him.
So, as the wedding nears Ben and Chaya are faced with difficult decisions to walk away or fight for each other.
But can the guy who always puts everyone else first and the girl whose faith and family mean everything to her really overcome all the obstacles to get the happy ending they so richly deserve.
And with superb pacing, sweetness, heat and moments that had me crying sad tears, happy tears and laughing out loud (Thanks Nan!) This truly was the perfect ending to a fantastic series.
And I urge anyone whose not met the Sad Fridays' yet to one-click this series today.
My copy of Let Me Love You was generously provided by the author. 😊
As Ben and Chaya are in love with each other, everyone can see that. But Chaya is a Jewish girl whose life was forever changed as an eleven-year-old when she was kidnapped and then rescued by Ben. And because of this they have a relationship like no other and one that no one understands apart from maybe Ben's Nan the lynch pin of this series.
Yet, Chaya's faith means she must marry a Jewish man and so she finds herself engaged to Asher. Who along with her father despises Ben and the relationship Chaya shares with him.
So, as the wedding nears Ben and Chaya are faced with difficult decisions to walk away or fight for each other.
But can the guy who always puts everyone else first and the girl whose faith and family mean everything to her really overcome all the obstacles to get the happy ending they so richly deserve.
And with superb pacing, sweetness, heat and moments that had me crying sad tears, happy tears and laughing out loud (Thanks Nan!) This truly was the perfect ending to a fantastic series.
And I urge anyone whose not met the Sad Fridays' yet to one-click this series today.
My copy of Let Me Love You was generously provided by the author. 😊
August 30, 2022
What a fantastic end to this series! I was anxiously waiting for Ben and Chaya's story because they were together, but not together through the whole series. The first part of this broke my heart. But watching them decide that their love for each other was not something they could give up made me so happy!
This was just great!
This was just great!
August 30, 2022
*I received a free copy of Let Me Love You. This has in no way influenced my voluntary review which is honest and unbiased.*
Let Me Love You is Chaya and Ben's story (finally!! ) :)
These characters have been best friends forever, and everybody but them realized that there was more than friendship to their relationship. It's not meant to be, though. Because Chaya knows she wants to stay true to her religion, and thus marry someone of the same faith. That can never be Ben. As Chaya meets a man who is her ideal man in all ways, she and Ben grow apart. It seems that nothing can bring them back together.
Then, someone close to them both has a health problem, and somehow, they start thinking of all the 'what ifs' that exist between them. Chaya realizes that there are some compromises that shouldn't be made, and Ben decides that love should conquer all.
I enjoyed this last installment in Excell All Areas, both because I've loved Ben and Chaya since the first time I met them, and because it was so nice to see all the other band members and their significant others once more. I also liked that the biggest conflict here was within one of the protagonists. Having a moral dilemma can sometimes be much more difficult than having a conflict with someone outside ourselves. It's easier to avoid a person than it is to try to deal with our own contradicting thoughs.
Cole has managed to finish this series to my full satisfaction, and I already look forward to reading the whole series all over again.
Let Me Love You is Chaya and Ben's story (finally!! ) :)
These characters have been best friends forever, and everybody but them realized that there was more than friendship to their relationship. It's not meant to be, though. Because Chaya knows she wants to stay true to her religion, and thus marry someone of the same faith. That can never be Ben. As Chaya meets a man who is her ideal man in all ways, she and Ben grow apart. It seems that nothing can bring them back together.
Then, someone close to them both has a health problem, and somehow, they start thinking of all the 'what ifs' that exist between them. Chaya realizes that there are some compromises that shouldn't be made, and Ben decides that love should conquer all.
I enjoyed this last installment in Excell All Areas, both because I've loved Ben and Chaya since the first time I met them, and because it was so nice to see all the other band members and their significant others once more. I also liked that the biggest conflict here was within one of the protagonists. Having a moral dilemma can sometimes be much more difficult than having a conflict with someone outside ourselves. It's easier to avoid a person than it is to try to deal with our own contradicting thoughs.
Cole has managed to finish this series to my full satisfaction, and I already look forward to reading the whole series all over again.
August 19, 2022
I absolutely love when a rockstar romance comes with heart wrecking feels. And Let Me Love You by Scarlett Cole is definitely an emotional rollercoaster. This friends to lovers second chance romance is full of swoony , angsty and heartwarming feels.
Lead Guitarist of famous rock band Sad Friday, Ben King is a wreck. His best friend and secret love of life Chaya Tobias is getting married. They always had a deep connection and they almost crossed the invisible line but never did as Chaya has loyalty to her faith and cannot see a future with a non Jewish person. But as the day comes closer, Chaya is in a dilemma. The band is her family. Can she live without Ben?
Few things set this story apart from your usual rockstar romance. First, the members are like family in true sense. They are not all about sex, drugs and rock & roll. They did have their share of struggles and drama but right now they a cohesive unit. They are very grounded and down to earth in spite of their success. Two, music plays an important role. The author brings the technical side so you get a very immersive experience. You can feel how the art shapes all their lives. And last but not the least, diversity. Ben's brother Alex was pansexual and his girlfriend Zoe was a hearing impaired percussionist. Here Chaya is a conservative Jewish and a junior doctor. The author did her research and was not afraid to dive deep into the tradition, religious ideas and rituals.
I hope every reader keeps an open mind and try to understand why it was so difficult for Chaya to just let go of her ideas and embrace her feelings. She had a major trauma and that made her perfectionist. She wanted to be flawless as daughter and as a student and as a doctor. Religion has been a big part of her soul. So it was not easy to defy her parents and stop feeling guilty. I adore Ben for being so patient and understanding about her faith. He is an incredible man who always lifted others throughout his life. He always wants the best for others. So he didnt push Chaya. He let her come to him. It was sweet agony because the author poured angst in every page. The way they pulled apart and the way they came together..it was gut wrenching and swoonworthy at the same time. I will miss Sad Fridays family so much.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
Lead Guitarist of famous rock band Sad Friday, Ben King is a wreck. His best friend and secret love of life Chaya Tobias is getting married. They always had a deep connection and they almost crossed the invisible line but never did as Chaya has loyalty to her faith and cannot see a future with a non Jewish person. But as the day comes closer, Chaya is in a dilemma. The band is her family. Can she live without Ben?
Few things set this story apart from your usual rockstar romance. First, the members are like family in true sense. They are not all about sex, drugs and rock & roll. They did have their share of struggles and drama but right now they a cohesive unit. They are very grounded and down to earth in spite of their success. Two, music plays an important role. The author brings the technical side so you get a very immersive experience. You can feel how the art shapes all their lives. And last but not the least, diversity. Ben's brother Alex was pansexual and his girlfriend Zoe was a hearing impaired percussionist. Here Chaya is a conservative Jewish and a junior doctor. The author did her research and was not afraid to dive deep into the tradition, religious ideas and rituals.
I hope every reader keeps an open mind and try to understand why it was so difficult for Chaya to just let go of her ideas and embrace her feelings. She had a major trauma and that made her perfectionist. She wanted to be flawless as daughter and as a student and as a doctor. Religion has been a big part of her soul. So it was not easy to defy her parents and stop feeling guilty. I adore Ben for being so patient and understanding about her faith. He is an incredible man who always lifted others throughout his life. He always wants the best for others. So he didnt push Chaya. He let her come to him. It was sweet agony because the author poured angst in every page. The way they pulled apart and the way they came together..it was gut wrenching and swoonworthy at the same time. I will miss Sad Fridays family so much.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
August 22, 2022
I have absolutely loved reading Let Me Love You - it is the perfect series finale. This novel is Ben and Chaya’s story and I found it to be an emotional one for a few different reasons.
If, like me, you’ve followed the Sad Fridays’ stories from the very beginning, you will understand how much each individual means to one another, and that will be why I was reaching for the tissues within the first few chapters of Let Me Love You. There are moments throughout this narrative that I couldn’t help but cry over - some tears of sadness and some were tears of joy. I have smiled and laughed out loud so many times too - which I loved. If you haven’t already done so, then please read the band’s journey from the very beginning, starting with One Day Like This which is Matt’s story. I promise you won’t regret a single moment.
I could have read Ben and Chaya’s story in one sitting if real life had allowed. I have loved witnessing their friendship over the series, and I have always been rooting for them to find their HEA together. Not only do they have a fantastic connection, the chemistry between them is sizzling too. Ben has always been the one out of the band to make the most sacrifices, and Let Me Love You reminds us just how special this man is. #BenYa4Ever
I have absolutely loved being back in the company of the Sad Fridays’ family. Can I name the band member who I adore the most, no I can’t. If I was asked the same question about their partners, I couldn’t answer that either. I love them all for different reasons - reasons that are as individual as each and every one of them. There is one person who does need a special mention though, and that is Nan. Everyone needs their very own Nan in their life.
I have to applaud the author, Scarlett Cole, for the way in which she has written this incredible series. Every one of the band members or their partners have faced real life situations that they have had to work through. There is no doubting the amount of thorough research that the author has done. She has written each and every story with consideration and care and thanks to her, I have a greater knowledge and understanding of the difficulties the characters have had to overcome. This series has been thought-provoking, and the stories will stay with me for a very long time.
I highly recommend not only this book but this series to you to read.
5 stars.
If, like me, you’ve followed the Sad Fridays’ stories from the very beginning, you will understand how much each individual means to one another, and that will be why I was reaching for the tissues within the first few chapters of Let Me Love You. There are moments throughout this narrative that I couldn’t help but cry over - some tears of sadness and some were tears of joy. I have smiled and laughed out loud so many times too - which I loved. If you haven’t already done so, then please read the band’s journey from the very beginning, starting with One Day Like This which is Matt’s story. I promise you won’t regret a single moment.
I could have read Ben and Chaya’s story in one sitting if real life had allowed. I have loved witnessing their friendship over the series, and I have always been rooting for them to find their HEA together. Not only do they have a fantastic connection, the chemistry between them is sizzling too. Ben has always been the one out of the band to make the most sacrifices, and Let Me Love You reminds us just how special this man is. #BenYa4Ever
I have absolutely loved being back in the company of the Sad Fridays’ family. Can I name the band member who I adore the most, no I can’t. If I was asked the same question about their partners, I couldn’t answer that either. I love them all for different reasons - reasons that are as individual as each and every one of them. There is one person who does need a special mention though, and that is Nan. Everyone needs their very own Nan in their life.
I have to applaud the author, Scarlett Cole, for the way in which she has written this incredible series. Every one of the band members or their partners have faced real life situations that they have had to work through. There is no doubting the amount of thorough research that the author has done. She has written each and every story with consideration and care and thanks to her, I have a greater knowledge and understanding of the difficulties the characters have had to overcome. This series has been thought-provoking, and the stories will stay with me for a very long time.
I highly recommend not only this book but this series to you to read.
5 stars.
September 1, 2022
I struggled with this one quite a bit, and I think it really comes down to Chaya. I really wanted to like her, I did. I definitely felt for her and all she's been through, but ultimately there was a just a wall there for me when it came to her. I didn't like how she handled some very important situations, and I hated how she was so woven into her religion that she couldn't see the path that was really for her. I have my own issues with religion (not God itself, but the cult-like phenomenon it is) so maybe that clouded my judgement here a bit, but here's the thing: I get marrying someone with the same beliefs and values as you is a good thing. But you also have to take that into consideration with *who* a person is. Ben wasn't religious so that automatically counted him out of her life, but he was a better person than her fiance.🤷♀️
I'm a die hard Ben fan though. Throughout the entire series he's been my favorite, so I'm glad he got his happy ending for himself, but I still don't know if I'm happy it was with her.
Overall this was a good series and I'm sad to see it go.
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions**
I'm a die hard Ben fan though. Throughout the entire series he's been my favorite, so I'm glad he got his happy ending for himself, but I still don't know if I'm happy it was with her.
Overall this was a good series and I'm sad to see it go.
**I received an ARC of this book and these are my honest opinions**
August 29, 2022
💛🎶🎸🎤🎹🥁🎶💛
My favorite book band Sad Fridays are back for the last book in this amazing series about an up and coming band from Manchester, UK. They’re comprised of siblings, cousins and a long time friend so it makes their relationships and success even more complex and special in my opinion.
Ben and Chaya have been friends since childhood after Ben rescued her from a kidnapper. They formed a bond that evolved into strong friendship and deep love.
Chaya is driven to be the best at everything for her family and that means marrying a Jewish man as her parents wish. The problem with that is she and Ben are in love with each other and he’s not Jewish.
I love their closeness and true friendship, it felt so real and on the flip side I felt their agony and heartache over their seemingly impossible situation and it was so heart wrenching.
Ben is the guy that takes care of everyone, sacrifices for those he loves and tries to keep everything together for them all. He wants everyone to be happy and he does everything he can to aid that. He’s so lovable and total husband material. I adore him so much.
Chaya gets engaged and Ben is heartsick and spinning out of control.
She has to decide if her happiness is more important than tradition and her family relationships.
It’s semi- slow burn, but the chemistry is insanely hot and emotional.
It’s less angsty than I expected, there’s a lot of happy relationship moments. I adore these two characters together and I loved their journey to happiness so much.
It’s a bittersweet book as it’s the last in this series about the band Sad Fridays, their struggles, triumphs and path’s to love, success and happiness.
I love all the characters and their journey’s were all so original and enjoyable. It’s really a one of a kind group of characters.
Their grandma, Nan is an amazing secondary character, I ADORE her. She’s the caretaker of them all, she has a bawdy sense of humor, lots of love, very understanding and she’s not afraid to give tough love when needed.
Such a wonderful story/book to end this amazing series. I cried a bit both in sad moments and happy. Truly a beautiful book and series.
My favorite book band Sad Fridays are back for the last book in this amazing series about an up and coming band from Manchester, UK. They’re comprised of siblings, cousins and a long time friend so it makes their relationships and success even more complex and special in my opinion.
Ben and Chaya have been friends since childhood after Ben rescued her from a kidnapper. They formed a bond that evolved into strong friendship and deep love.
Chaya is driven to be the best at everything for her family and that means marrying a Jewish man as her parents wish. The problem with that is she and Ben are in love with each other and he’s not Jewish.
I love their closeness and true friendship, it felt so real and on the flip side I felt their agony and heartache over their seemingly impossible situation and it was so heart wrenching.
Ben is the guy that takes care of everyone, sacrifices for those he loves and tries to keep everything together for them all. He wants everyone to be happy and he does everything he can to aid that. He’s so lovable and total husband material. I adore him so much.
Chaya gets engaged and Ben is heartsick and spinning out of control.
She has to decide if her happiness is more important than tradition and her family relationships.
It’s semi- slow burn, but the chemistry is insanely hot and emotional.
It’s less angsty than I expected, there’s a lot of happy relationship moments. I adore these two characters together and I loved their journey to happiness so much.
It’s a bittersweet book as it’s the last in this series about the band Sad Fridays, their struggles, triumphs and path’s to love, success and happiness.
I love all the characters and their journey’s were all so original and enjoyable. It’s really a one of a kind group of characters.
Their grandma, Nan is an amazing secondary character, I ADORE her. She’s the caretaker of them all, she has a bawdy sense of humor, lots of love, very understanding and she’s not afraid to give tough love when needed.
Such a wonderful story/book to end this amazing series. I cried a bit both in sad moments and happy. Truly a beautiful book and series.
September 4, 2022
4.5 ⭐ The story I've been waiting for since the first novel delivered. I appreciate the the main conflict was the struggle of how to bring together what you love and what you believe in. I'm neither Jewish nor strongly rooted in my faith, but I could understand Chaya's reasoning and the debackle of living up to her faith's moral standards. It was a character driven book for the most part. It brought a sense of clousure for the whole series. Ben and Chaya's story starts in the first book and I believe I would have appreciated it better if I could binge through all the books back to back instead of reading them over the course of months. I missed something in this story, but I cannot figure out what it is. I liked how the book focused not only on the romance, but also on the band's journey overall. My favorites in the series will be Jase and Cerys' story and Luke and Willow's, but this one is a close second. Hope Scarlett has an idea for another series, cause I would gladly enter another wolrd built by her.
August 28, 2022
How Do You Give a Book More Than Five Stars?!!!
If any book deserves more than the five-star rating this would be the book. Ms. Cole is bringing another of her series to an end that makes you feel like you never want the story to end because no one can write a story like this author. I always get brought to the forefront of all of the emotions she wants to wring out of me and then some.
Ben and Chaya have to go through so much to get their HEA but when it happens it was so worth the journey with them as well as getting to see the rest of the guys in Sad Friday and their ladies. Be prepared because this story took me to the highest of highs and the lowest of lows but it was Nan that always made the story truly perfect.
All I can say is do yourself a favor and grab this book and when you’ve finished grab Ms. Cole’s other books as well because each of them have earned the five-star rating.
If any book deserves more than the five-star rating this would be the book. Ms. Cole is bringing another of her series to an end that makes you feel like you never want the story to end because no one can write a story like this author. I always get brought to the forefront of all of the emotions she wants to wring out of me and then some.
Ben and Chaya have to go through so much to get their HEA but when it happens it was so worth the journey with them as well as getting to see the rest of the guys in Sad Friday and their ladies. Be prepared because this story took me to the highest of highs and the lowest of lows but it was Nan that always made the story truly perfect.
All I can say is do yourself a favor and grab this book and when you’ve finished grab Ms. Cole’s other books as well because each of them have earned the five-star rating.
August 27, 2022
Let me love you est le cinquième et dernier tome de la saga All Excess Areas, une superbe saga dans le monde de la musique que j'ai adorée découvrir. Chaque tome nous offre sa problématique et ses thématiques plus ou moins intenses. J'attendais avec impatience l'histoire de Ben et Chaya et c'est avec les larmes aux yeux que je referme le roman.
Bref, Let me love you est la conclusion parfaite à une saga entraînante, charmante et addictive. Scarlett Cole nous offre des romances différentes les unes des autres tout en gardant ce fil connecteur et cette partition qui ne sera pas sans anicroches. Un vrai régal et une pléiade d'émotions nous attente avec cet ultime tome.
Avis complet à lire sur: https://thelovelyteacheraddictions.bl...
Bref, Let me love you est la conclusion parfaite à une saga entraînante, charmante et addictive. Scarlett Cole nous offre des romances différentes les unes des autres tout en gardant ce fil connecteur et cette partition qui ne sera pas sans anicroches. Un vrai régal et une pléiade d'émotions nous attente avec cet ultime tome.
Avis complet à lire sur: https://thelovelyteacheraddictions.bl...
September 2, 2022
Ok so ignore this if i start to rant but not sure if im ready to write this review just yet lol
I have been drawn in and hooked on this series from the first words and i wasnt sure if id ever quite be ready for it all to end.
Seeing those Sad Fridays guys grow up, and be who they want to be and be accepted is just beautiful.
They way they are a team, a whole, a family it just gives you so much hope for everyone to get their people.
Ben and Chaya have been friends for years since Ben found Chaya under the worse circumstances you could imagine. Theyve been by each others sides as besties since that very day... but could they want more?
Absolutely jammed packed with love, friendship, and all the emotions/feels you could ever want this story has it all.... including the best Nan EVER!!!!
Scarlett Cole you have smashed this series lady! Love love love!!!
I have been drawn in and hooked on this series from the first words and i wasnt sure if id ever quite be ready for it all to end.
Seeing those Sad Fridays guys grow up, and be who they want to be and be accepted is just beautiful.
They way they are a team, a whole, a family it just gives you so much hope for everyone to get their people.
Ben and Chaya have been friends for years since Ben found Chaya under the worse circumstances you could imagine. Theyve been by each others sides as besties since that very day... but could they want more?
Absolutely jammed packed with love, friendship, and all the emotions/feels you could ever want this story has it all.... including the best Nan EVER!!!!
Scarlett Cole you have smashed this series lady! Love love love!!!
August 24, 2022
Full review coming 8/30/22 www.simplylovebooks.com
TW: discussion of child abduction & sexual assault (in past, told by main character survivor), domestic violence (secondary character retelling), parental abandonment (main character faith related)
Let Me Love You is that last book in the Excess All Areas/Sad Fridays series and throughout it we’ve seen the two main characters of this book who maintain to all that what they have together is strictly a platonic friendship and it was and for a reason that won’t change. This book was emotional and at times hard to read, yet it was also a love story between two friends whose friendship is tested, broken, eventually repaired, and they become more. This wasn’t an easy story, and you’d think it would be angst filled, but that wasn’t the case. These characters are put through the wringer and together they emerge not only stronger as individuals but as a couple and I was there for them every step of the way.
A beautiful ending to what has been an exceptional series.
TW: discussion of child abduction & sexual assault (in past, told by main character survivor), domestic violence (secondary character retelling), parental abandonment (main character faith related)
Let Me Love You is that last book in the Excess All Areas/Sad Fridays series and throughout it we’ve seen the two main characters of this book who maintain to all that what they have together is strictly a platonic friendship and it was and for a reason that won’t change. This book was emotional and at times hard to read, yet it was also a love story between two friends whose friendship is tested, broken, eventually repaired, and they become more. This wasn’t an easy story, and you’d think it would be angst filled, but that wasn’t the case. These characters are put through the wringer and together they emerge not only stronger as individuals but as a couple and I was there for them every step of the way.
A beautiful ending to what has been an exceptional series.
August 30, 2022
17/20 - https://www.leslecturesdemylene.com/2...
En bref, j'étais curieuse et impatiente de découvrir l'histoire de Ben et Chaya et ils ne m'ont clairement pas déçue. J'ai aimé vivre les hauts et les bas en leur compagnie, leur questionnement et tout ce que ça implique pour eux. Plus on avance et plus les choses se précisent, ils vont faire face à des décisions qui vont changer leurs vies et forcément, les secousses que cela engendre sont parfois un peu violentes. Les personnages secondaires ont forcément un rôle important à jouer dans leurs décisions tout comme la religion est une pierre angulaire de leurs choix. Plus on avance et plus les sentiments deviennent forts, on les ressent sans peine au travers des mots de l'autrice et le final nous touche de bien des manières. Une très belle saga portée par des thèmes forts et des personnages géniaux !!
En bref, j'étais curieuse et impatiente de découvrir l'histoire de Ben et Chaya et ils ne m'ont clairement pas déçue. J'ai aimé vivre les hauts et les bas en leur compagnie, leur questionnement et tout ce que ça implique pour eux. Plus on avance et plus les choses se précisent, ils vont faire face à des décisions qui vont changer leurs vies et forcément, les secousses que cela engendre sont parfois un peu violentes. Les personnages secondaires ont forcément un rôle important à jouer dans leurs décisions tout comme la religion est une pierre angulaire de leurs choix. Plus on avance et plus les sentiments deviennent forts, on les ressent sans peine au travers des mots de l'autrice et le final nous touche de bien des manières. Une très belle saga portée par des thèmes forts et des personnages géniaux !!
August 22, 2022
You need to read about the Sad Fridays!
Guitarist Ben King has always been the steady one of the Sad Fridays but he went off the rails when he found a save the date card for Chaya Tobias’ wedding. Ben was in love with Chaya and wanted to date her but he had one major thing against him, he wasn’t Jewish and Chaya planned to marry within her faith. But can Ben let Chaya go and marry someone else?
I’ll admit there are very few romances that have a religious theme in the story but Scarlett Cole has shown how Ben and Chaya learn to balance what is important to them and compromise.
P.S. Now you have read the Excess All Areas series, you need to read the Preload series because Scarlett Cole will take your emotions through a wringer with tears and laughs but they are worth it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author and Wildfire Marketing. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Guitarist Ben King has always been the steady one of the Sad Fridays but he went off the rails when he found a save the date card for Chaya Tobias’ wedding. Ben was in love with Chaya and wanted to date her but he had one major thing against him, he wasn’t Jewish and Chaya planned to marry within her faith. But can Ben let Chaya go and marry someone else?
I’ll admit there are very few romances that have a religious theme in the story but Scarlett Cole has shown how Ben and Chaya learn to balance what is important to them and compromise.
P.S. Now you have read the Excess All Areas series, you need to read the Preload series because Scarlett Cole will take your emotions through a wringer with tears and laughs but they are worth it.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book from the author and Wildfire Marketing. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 22, 2022
Let Me Love You is the final installment for the Sad Fridays and also the story that has been sitting in the background screaming to be heard. Ben and Chaya have loved each other under the pretense of friendship letting beliefs to stand in their way instead of embracing them. As tragedy throws these two together it also shows how true love can shine if communication and honesty are put at the forefront. Tears will flow, your heart will shatter but these two will mend it all and have you bursting with happiness. A story filled with love, healing, faith and family. The chemistry and love that radiates between these two is poignant and infectious. A story that easily winds its way around your heart and at times consumes you. A beautiful ending to what has been an emotional and heartfelt journey between five young men who deserved nothing short of being loved for their true selves.
September 14, 2022
Sigh! I’m so sad this series is over, but thrilled to have experienced it. Scarlett Cole has left the best til last. This was an amazing read that dealt with sensitive topics such as childhood abduction and traditional faiths and wove them into a story that showed the acceptance of those who love without fear or boundaries. Loved it.
September 1, 2022
Sad Fridays has given me one of the best book world experience. I love Scarlett Cole and her books. She always takes me away and I love the unique experiences as I fall in love with her characters. That has been true here as I love the band mates, their girls, and of course Nan.
So why the three stars for this specific book. I am just not a fan of Chaya. Maybe I should have allowed for more growing pains but I really struggle with what I see as religious injustices. I didn’t even care that another guy was involved for part of this story in fact it made it more interesting. I just didn’t grow to love the heroine even as she started to act like a grown up and treat Ben the way he deserved.
Ugh I spent most of this book feeling sad for Ben. Yes he had his demons but he deserved to be treated better. His band mates and Nan (grandmother) were his saving grace in my opinion. Eek. Did I mention I love the them. It bares repeating. Hee hee.
Truthfully i feel a bit unfair in regards to my feelings on this book. I was raised very religious in an almost cult like church. I definitely have some childhood trauma which was a bit triggered in this read. Why an I telling you this? Because you might feel differently about this book and maybe my feelings are specific to me. Yikes.
Anyway if you are a fan of this author and want an in-depth look at a specific religion and how it affects a relationship then this story is well worth you time. It definitely has the right amount of spice to keep things interesting. Wink.
Happy Reading Everyone! XOXO
So why the three stars for this specific book. I am just not a fan of Chaya. Maybe I should have allowed for more growing pains but I really struggle with what I see as religious injustices. I didn’t even care that another guy was involved for part of this story in fact it made it more interesting. I just didn’t grow to love the heroine even as she started to act like a grown up and treat Ben the way he deserved.
Ugh I spent most of this book feeling sad for Ben. Yes he had his demons but he deserved to be treated better. His band mates and Nan (grandmother) were his saving grace in my opinion. Eek. Did I mention I love the them. It bares repeating. Hee hee.
Truthfully i feel a bit unfair in regards to my feelings on this book. I was raised very religious in an almost cult like church. I definitely have some childhood trauma which was a bit triggered in this read. Why an I telling you this? Because you might feel differently about this book and maybe my feelings are specific to me. Yikes.
Anyway if you are a fan of this author and want an in-depth look at a specific religion and how it affects a relationship then this story is well worth you time. It definitely has the right amount of spice to keep things interesting. Wink.
Happy Reading Everyone! XOXO
August 23, 2022
What a beautiful ending to a great series! I loved so many pieces of this book, but honestly I loved most seeing the hard work pay off for all the characters. I love how they all better themselves on the inside before the outside and Chaya, what a strong female. I loved how she owned up to her mistakes, because it's hard, but she did it. And Nan! I loved her ending, absolutely the best!
I'm going to share my favorite line of the entire book, because it's so true! "The sum of our lives is not the achievements but the feelings.”
I'm going to share my favorite line of the entire book, because it's so true! "The sum of our lives is not the achievements but the feelings.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 30, 2022
TW: discussion of child abduction & sexual assault (in past, told by main character survivor), domestic violence (secondary character retelling), parental abandonment (main character faith related), unintentional emotional cheating (main character/not malicious just not realizing it for what it was)
Let Me Love You is that last book in the Excess All Areas/Sad Fridays series and throughout it we’ve seen the two main characters of this book who maintain to all that what they have together is strictly a platonic friendship and it was and for a reason that won’t change. This book was emotional and at times hard to read, yet it was also a love story between two friends whose friendship is tested, broken, eventually repaired, and they become more. This wasn’t an easy story, and you’d think it would be angst filled, but that wasn’t the case. These characters are put through the wringer and together they emerge not only stronger as individuals but as a couple and I was there with them every step of the way.
Ben and Chaya have been friends since she was 11 years old and he was 15 and found her chained in an abandoned warehouse after being kidnapped and assaulted by a neighbor. Her parents did not approve of their friendship and it was JUST a friendship for 17 years. There was attraction but Ben never went there with Chaya even though he wanted to because of Chaya’s plan to marry within her Orthodox Jewish faith. Ben understood it was important to her and if nothing else Ben wanted Chaya to have everything she wanted in life and as long as she was happy he was happy for her. Celebrating Christmas with his family he learns that Chaya’s boyfriend proposed and she is engaged after a very short time of dating and that sends him into a tailspin and when her boyfriend has issues with her friendship with Ben, she is torn but backs away for the sake of her relationship which only has him spinning even further out of control.
When Ben’s Nan has a stroke and ends up in the hospital he calls Chaya, who is a junior doctor, and she rushes to be by his side with her fiancé Asher the a$$ in tow. It is easy to see that Asher is not impressed and that agitates Ben. Chaya feels torn and really has no one to talk to her feelings about because the one person she would talk to about it with is Ben. I really felt for Chaya, she had big pressures from the pace of her job, planning a wedding that was coming about way too soon, a fiancé who didn’t seem to take her wants and needs into account at all, and missing her best friend Ben and then feeling guilty about it. It took her awhile to figure things out and in the meantime Ben figured out that he needed to step back and let Chaya move on. There was so much heartache and I felt for both Ben and Chaya as they returned items left and one another’s homes and said goodbye, but it was also a turning point for both of them as well.
I feel I need to touch on this subject a bit because Chaya feels in this book that she was an emotional cheater on her boyfriend/fiancé, but I really didn’t see that. She loved Ben and had for a long time but I also felt she was devoted and in love with Asher. Asher however was a bit of a d*ck and he didn’t like Ben and didn’t want her spending time with him as her best friend. He even admitted that if Ben was a woman best friend he’d have no issues (sorry that’s a red flag right there) and the fact that he didn’t want her to invite Ben and the band and their significant others and Nan to their wedding when those people were all HER friends (friends she considered close as family) which he refused to get to know (another red flag). Maybe she did have strong feelings for Ben but she was dedicated to marrying within her faith and I believe she did love Asher, but it was different than her love of Ben, and had he accepted Ben and welcomed Ben into their lives I feel it could have made a difference. Would it have been difficult for Ben? Yes, but if he saw Chaya happy he would have been happy for her, but he never got to see that because Asher was a complete and utter d*ck. Right along with her father which is a whole other issue. I feel that Ben and Chaya would have remained friends (obviously their friendship would have changed some) had Asher put forth any effort but he didn’t and we didn’t have to find out because Chaya realized that Ben was more important.
Ben was lucky to have people in his life to tell him he needed to figure himself out; to find what made him happy in life, a purpose, and to be selfish for a change because Ben has always been the one that kept everyone together and gave everything he could to his brother, his Nan, his mom, his cousins, and his friends. He never put himself first and he realized that he needed to find something that made him happy, settled, and gave him a purpose. Chaya on the other hand felt she had no one, but she did reach out to her friend Izabel basically having a bit of a mental break and panic attack which led to her and Ben really talking about their friendship and what she truly wanted in her life. They agreed to take a month apart (no visits, no phone calls or texts) to look at their lives, what they wanted for their future, and to dig deep in what they wanted individually as well.
What I loved about this book was that both Ben and Chaya did some hard work individually and because of their long friendship, they communicated quite well. Yes they had things to discuss, things they never discussed as friends. It was open, often frank, and raw, but they got through it together. Ben was adamant about them dating and not moving into a physical relationship immediately which I adored even though it frustrated Chaya to no end and he also set out to make her dreams come true while also finding his path to happiness in all aspects of his life.
Throughout this series we’ve seen these characters lives turned completely upside down going from a band barely able to hang to one selling out stadiums and headlining music festivals. We’ve seen them face their childhood demons, overcome battles, and learn to be their true selves. And best of all we saw each of them open their hearts and minds and find love.
I have loved each book in this series, but watching Ben and Chaya throughout it made Let Me Love You a very special story. The book was heartfelt, emotional, and it consumed me. A beautiful ending to what has been an exceptional series.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
Let Me Love You is that last book in the Excess All Areas/Sad Fridays series and throughout it we’ve seen the two main characters of this book who maintain to all that what they have together is strictly a platonic friendship and it was and for a reason that won’t change. This book was emotional and at times hard to read, yet it was also a love story between two friends whose friendship is tested, broken, eventually repaired, and they become more. This wasn’t an easy story, and you’d think it would be angst filled, but that wasn’t the case. These characters are put through the wringer and together they emerge not only stronger as individuals but as a couple and I was there with them every step of the way.
Ben and Chaya have been friends since she was 11 years old and he was 15 and found her chained in an abandoned warehouse after being kidnapped and assaulted by a neighbor. Her parents did not approve of their friendship and it was JUST a friendship for 17 years. There was attraction but Ben never went there with Chaya even though he wanted to because of Chaya’s plan to marry within her Orthodox Jewish faith. Ben understood it was important to her and if nothing else Ben wanted Chaya to have everything she wanted in life and as long as she was happy he was happy for her. Celebrating Christmas with his family he learns that Chaya’s boyfriend proposed and she is engaged after a very short time of dating and that sends him into a tailspin and when her boyfriend has issues with her friendship with Ben, she is torn but backs away for the sake of her relationship which only has him spinning even further out of control.
When Ben’s Nan has a stroke and ends up in the hospital he calls Chaya, who is a junior doctor, and she rushes to be by his side with her fiancé Asher the a$$ in tow. It is easy to see that Asher is not impressed and that agitates Ben. Chaya feels torn and really has no one to talk to her feelings about because the one person she would talk to about it with is Ben. I really felt for Chaya, she had big pressures from the pace of her job, planning a wedding that was coming about way too soon, a fiancé who didn’t seem to take her wants and needs into account at all, and missing her best friend Ben and then feeling guilty about it. It took her awhile to figure things out and in the meantime Ben figured out that he needed to step back and let Chaya move on. There was so much heartache and I felt for both Ben and Chaya as they returned items left and one another’s homes and said goodbye, but it was also a turning point for both of them as well.
I feel I need to touch on this subject a bit because Chaya feels in this book that she was an emotional cheater on her boyfriend/fiancé, but I really didn’t see that. She loved Ben and had for a long time but I also felt she was devoted and in love with Asher. Asher however was a bit of a d*ck and he didn’t like Ben and didn’t want her spending time with him as her best friend. He even admitted that if Ben was a woman best friend he’d have no issues (sorry that’s a red flag right there) and the fact that he didn’t want her to invite Ben and the band and their significant others and Nan to their wedding when those people were all HER friends (friends she considered close as family) which he refused to get to know (another red flag). Maybe she did have strong feelings for Ben but she was dedicated to marrying within her faith and I believe she did love Asher, but it was different than her love of Ben, and had he accepted Ben and welcomed Ben into their lives I feel it could have made a difference. Would it have been difficult for Ben? Yes, but if he saw Chaya happy he would have been happy for her, but he never got to see that because Asher was a complete and utter d*ck. Right along with her father which is a whole other issue. I feel that Ben and Chaya would have remained friends (obviously their friendship would have changed some) had Asher put forth any effort but he didn’t and we didn’t have to find out because Chaya realized that Ben was more important.
Ben was lucky to have people in his life to tell him he needed to figure himself out; to find what made him happy in life, a purpose, and to be selfish for a change because Ben has always been the one that kept everyone together and gave everything he could to his brother, his Nan, his mom, his cousins, and his friends. He never put himself first and he realized that he needed to find something that made him happy, settled, and gave him a purpose. Chaya on the other hand felt she had no one, but she did reach out to her friend Izabel basically having a bit of a mental break and panic attack which led to her and Ben really talking about their friendship and what she truly wanted in her life. They agreed to take a month apart (no visits, no phone calls or texts) to look at their lives, what they wanted for their future, and to dig deep in what they wanted individually as well.
What I loved about this book was that both Ben and Chaya did some hard work individually and because of their long friendship, they communicated quite well. Yes they had things to discuss, things they never discussed as friends. It was open, often frank, and raw, but they got through it together. Ben was adamant about them dating and not moving into a physical relationship immediately which I adored even though it frustrated Chaya to no end and he also set out to make her dreams come true while also finding his path to happiness in all aspects of his life.
Throughout this series we’ve seen these characters lives turned completely upside down going from a band barely able to hang to one selling out stadiums and headlining music festivals. We’ve seen them face their childhood demons, overcome battles, and learn to be their true selves. And best of all we saw each of them open their hearts and minds and find love.
I have loved each book in this series, but watching Ben and Chaya throughout it made Let Me Love You a very special story. The book was heartfelt, emotional, and it consumed me. A beautiful ending to what has been an exceptional series.
Review copy provided for a voluntary review.
August 31, 2022
Let Me Love You is the final book in Scarlett Cole’s Excess All Areas series and is Ben and Chaya’s story. All through the previous books we have known this couple are best of friends and that Ben had rescued her from a kidnapper when she was eleven. Due to her being Jewish, they have always known their love was forbidden but Ben had always wanted more. Over the last year she had come to realise she wanted him as much as she couldn’t have him due to her faith. This story isn’t just about Ben and Chaya, but also about the power of family and friendships. While we follow them trying to decide what to do, we get to see how much the band has progressed and how all five of them have grown and matured. It is a thoughtful and emotional series finale.
“We’ve always loved each other and now we want to try being in love with each other.”
Ben King is the lead guitarist for the Sad Fridays and now the only single member of the band. He is feeling very envious of the others all settling down with their girls. When his brother Alex tells him that Chaya has got engaged he is devastated she’d picked Asher. He has been in love with his best friend for years but knew in reality she’d never marry him as he wasn’t Jewish. Ben’s reaction to the news was to get drunk and this continued as his coping mechanism throughout their US tour, ending with him disgracing himself by falling off the stage drunk one night. She had been a part of his life for fifteen years since he rescued her. Now he knew she would drift away as Asher not comfortable with their friendship. His life is spiralling downwards and he knows he needs to figure out what to do with the rest of his life especially if it means Chaya isn’t in it.
Chaya is a junior doctor and under a lot of pressure at work. With all the stress of the wedding and her indecisions she is overwhelmed. Why does she have to choose between her faith and her family’s support or Ben. She knows what her faith expects from her and how interfaith marriage is frowned on. The wedding is in three months but she's beginning to think they have rushed things because she thought she’d have time to fall out of love with Ben. Asher thinks their relationship isn’t healthy as it bordered between friends and lovers so she questions if she can commit to him and give up her friendship with Ben.
When a tragic event has a huge impact on him, he reaches out for the one person he shouldn’t. The band is like family to Chaya so she has no reservations dashing to help them. She misses the band because they are a massive part of her life but has stayed away to appease Asher. This leads to her questioning her decisions and wondering if she will let her faith dictate her actions. Is the love they have as best friends enough after years of never crossing the boundaries to see what would happen. Can they envision their lives without one another? Who are they without each other? Can she find a way of loving Ben without sacrificing her faith when she realises she can’t live without him?
I loved the way he insists they get to know each other as lovers because he knows they work as friends. She needs to accept that what happened to her as a child has affected her far more than she realised. She always been scared to let anyone down so must take responsibility for her own life. They have both had huge expectations placed on them and this is a chance to get something for themselves. Both have feelings of being a disappointment and Ben feels he needs to be a better version of himself not only for Chaya but also himself.
“When you let me love you like that...Your trust in me and us devastates me, babe.”
I think this was one of my favourite of the series as there was a lot of depth to their story. I loved seeing Matt and Izabel, Jase and Cerys, Alex and Zoe, Luke, Willow and Zale, all doing so well after all the ups and downs they’d been through. I laughed at the girls putting the band member’s love lives into romance tropes. It was lovely seeing Ben find a sense of purpose and finally be happy because he was always there for everyone else and fixing things so it was great he fixed something for himself. I loved how he managed to stand up to her dad in the end. The Epilogues are great and bring the whole series to a romantic and fun ending. A good conclusion to an enjoyable series.
“We’ve always loved each other and now we want to try being in love with each other.”
Ben King is the lead guitarist for the Sad Fridays and now the only single member of the band. He is feeling very envious of the others all settling down with their girls. When his brother Alex tells him that Chaya has got engaged he is devastated she’d picked Asher. He has been in love with his best friend for years but knew in reality she’d never marry him as he wasn’t Jewish. Ben’s reaction to the news was to get drunk and this continued as his coping mechanism throughout their US tour, ending with him disgracing himself by falling off the stage drunk one night. She had been a part of his life for fifteen years since he rescued her. Now he knew she would drift away as Asher not comfortable with their friendship. His life is spiralling downwards and he knows he needs to figure out what to do with the rest of his life especially if it means Chaya isn’t in it.
Chaya is a junior doctor and under a lot of pressure at work. With all the stress of the wedding and her indecisions she is overwhelmed. Why does she have to choose between her faith and her family’s support or Ben. She knows what her faith expects from her and how interfaith marriage is frowned on. The wedding is in three months but she's beginning to think they have rushed things because she thought she’d have time to fall out of love with Ben. Asher thinks their relationship isn’t healthy as it bordered between friends and lovers so she questions if she can commit to him and give up her friendship with Ben.
When a tragic event has a huge impact on him, he reaches out for the one person he shouldn’t. The band is like family to Chaya so she has no reservations dashing to help them. She misses the band because they are a massive part of her life but has stayed away to appease Asher. This leads to her questioning her decisions and wondering if she will let her faith dictate her actions. Is the love they have as best friends enough after years of never crossing the boundaries to see what would happen. Can they envision their lives without one another? Who are they without each other? Can she find a way of loving Ben without sacrificing her faith when she realises she can’t live without him?
I loved the way he insists they get to know each other as lovers because he knows they work as friends. She needs to accept that what happened to her as a child has affected her far more than she realised. She always been scared to let anyone down so must take responsibility for her own life. They have both had huge expectations placed on them and this is a chance to get something for themselves. Both have feelings of being a disappointment and Ben feels he needs to be a better version of himself not only for Chaya but also himself.
“When you let me love you like that...Your trust in me and us devastates me, babe.”
I think this was one of my favourite of the series as there was a lot of depth to their story. I loved seeing Matt and Izabel, Jase and Cerys, Alex and Zoe, Luke, Willow and Zale, all doing so well after all the ups and downs they’d been through. I laughed at the girls putting the band member’s love lives into romance tropes. It was lovely seeing Ben find a sense of purpose and finally be happy because he was always there for everyone else and fixing things so it was great he fixed something for himself. I loved how he managed to stand up to her dad in the end. The Epilogues are great and bring the whole series to a romantic and fun ending. A good conclusion to an enjoyable series.
September 1, 2022
The previous four books in this series have led us to this moment, laying the groundwork for this epic friends to lovers romance that will have you frequently reaching for the tissues...out of sadness and joy! This is a tale full of intense emotions, a rollercoaster ride that breaks your heart before putting it back together. It's a tale of friends and family and the profound effects they can have on a person's life. It's also a tale of a love meant to be and a journey that was necessary to make that love all the richer for how hard the fight was to reach HEA.
Ben and Chaya have had an intense bond since he (literally) came to her rescue years ago, an unshakable bond that many around them didn’t understand but thought was romantic...though they always denied it. The more time they spend together though, the more sharing of important life events, has the truth becoming more and more obvious to them...they're in love with their best friend! This isn't an easy admission for either of them needless to say. With her being Jewish her family expects her to marry within their faith and rockstar Ben is definitely not what her father wants for her. For Ben, he just wants her to be happy. And knowing how important her faith and her family is to her has him willing to step away from her...no matter how much it kills him. With Chaya's wedding date to another man racing ever closer, feelings are fighting to get out and the power of love is in for the fight of a lifetime.
Ben King is a truly delicious hero, a truly sweet soul, with a tiny bit of naughty added in to make him pure perfection. He's the heart and soul of the band, someone always there for others, and willing to sacrifice for their happiness. He has the biggest heart and seeing what he's going through by not being able to claim Chaya completely...well, it broke MY heart. Chaya Tobias is hurting too, despite being a bride-to-be. She and Ben have had a profound connection for years, a bond that no one else can understand. That connection has evolved over the years as they went from friends and now to unrequited loves. It's a truth she especially doesn't want to admit to as she desperately wants to make her family proud and marry a good Jewish man. She doesn't want to lose her friend though, and the man who means everything to her, so with her wedding date getting closer she must decide who's happiness is more important...hers or her family's. It's a heart-wrenching debate as Ms. Cole realistically depicts the importance of the Jewish faith and how vital it is in how Chaya defines herself, the guilt she feels over possibly disappointing them. But Ms. Cole has also given Chaya another family...the Sad Fridays family. The members of this band are a close knit family (literally and figuratively) and their presence throughout this story brought comfort and joy to me and a strong support to Ben and Chaya as they navigated their feelings. These secondary characters were a wonderful part of the story, giving me a sense of nostalgia as well as getting an update on where each couple is right now. Seeing them made this an even stronger series-ender. Amongst these secondary characters though, the highlight was definitely Nan, the matriarch and the glue holding all these unforgettable characters together. She's full of words of wisdom and isn't afraid to share them when they're needed most. She's reminiscent of Sophia Petrillo from The Golden Girls...and I loved her all the more because of it!
From start to finish this was a book of pure perfection, a friendship meant to be more, and a battle of the heart over familial expectations. The main couple is immensely likable and you're definitely rooting them on every step of the way in a hard-fought HEA that was four books in the making. The rock star world wasn't shown in the usual hedonistic light here. Music had more of a bonding purpose here, a more poetic feel that brought these characters together as a family. From the very start my heart was wholeheartedly invested in the outcome of this story and it didn't disappoint. It's a beautifully crafted series-ender that I will reread often, whenever I want an entertaining and heartfelt rockstar romance, and I recommend it to all those looking for an epic romance full of heart and soul.
Ben and Chaya have had an intense bond since he (literally) came to her rescue years ago, an unshakable bond that many around them didn’t understand but thought was romantic...though they always denied it. The more time they spend together though, the more sharing of important life events, has the truth becoming more and more obvious to them...they're in love with their best friend! This isn't an easy admission for either of them needless to say. With her being Jewish her family expects her to marry within their faith and rockstar Ben is definitely not what her father wants for her. For Ben, he just wants her to be happy. And knowing how important her faith and her family is to her has him willing to step away from her...no matter how much it kills him. With Chaya's wedding date to another man racing ever closer, feelings are fighting to get out and the power of love is in for the fight of a lifetime.
Ben King is a truly delicious hero, a truly sweet soul, with a tiny bit of naughty added in to make him pure perfection. He's the heart and soul of the band, someone always there for others, and willing to sacrifice for their happiness. He has the biggest heart and seeing what he's going through by not being able to claim Chaya completely...well, it broke MY heart. Chaya Tobias is hurting too, despite being a bride-to-be. She and Ben have had a profound connection for years, a bond that no one else can understand. That connection has evolved over the years as they went from friends and now to unrequited loves. It's a truth she especially doesn't want to admit to as she desperately wants to make her family proud and marry a good Jewish man. She doesn't want to lose her friend though, and the man who means everything to her, so with her wedding date getting closer she must decide who's happiness is more important...hers or her family's. It's a heart-wrenching debate as Ms. Cole realistically depicts the importance of the Jewish faith and how vital it is in how Chaya defines herself, the guilt she feels over possibly disappointing them. But Ms. Cole has also given Chaya another family...the Sad Fridays family. The members of this band are a close knit family (literally and figuratively) and their presence throughout this story brought comfort and joy to me and a strong support to Ben and Chaya as they navigated their feelings. These secondary characters were a wonderful part of the story, giving me a sense of nostalgia as well as getting an update on where each couple is right now. Seeing them made this an even stronger series-ender. Amongst these secondary characters though, the highlight was definitely Nan, the matriarch and the glue holding all these unforgettable characters together. She's full of words of wisdom and isn't afraid to share them when they're needed most. She's reminiscent of Sophia Petrillo from The Golden Girls...and I loved her all the more because of it!
From start to finish this was a book of pure perfection, a friendship meant to be more, and a battle of the heart over familial expectations. The main couple is immensely likable and you're definitely rooting them on every step of the way in a hard-fought HEA that was four books in the making. The rock star world wasn't shown in the usual hedonistic light here. Music had more of a bonding purpose here, a more poetic feel that brought these characters together as a family. From the very start my heart was wholeheartedly invested in the outcome of this story and it didn't disappoint. It's a beautifully crafted series-ender that I will reread often, whenever I want an entertaining and heartfelt rockstar romance, and I recommend it to all those looking for an epic romance full of heart and soul.
August 31, 2022
If there was ever someone who deserved to find his own happy ending, it would be the last good man standing, super delicious lead guitarist, Ben King. The person on the receiving end of all his adoration was his long time friend, Chaya Tobias. How long have they been together? Well, they weren't, never had been but they were connected, heart to heart, soul to soul since they met 15 years ago. He saved her life once and she continued to save his, but now she was going to marry someone other than him. He is broken, lost and resigned to a lonely life without her.
Chaya's family and practicing her Jewish faith were the most most important parts of her life. Well, beside her best friend- the man she secretly loved but could never have. Her father made it clear that marrying a man of their faith was what was expected of her and Ben was not incuded on his short list. The man she would marry had all the qualities her family thought were important, but try as she might to think otherwise, something was definitely missing.
Let Me Love You is book 5 in Scarlett Cole's amazing Excess All Areas rockstar romance series featuring her fictional Manchester based band, Sad Fridays. They rose from years of doing local gigs to the top of the charts, but were still humble and grateful for all they'd been blessed with. I am thrilled to have been along for the tumultuous ride with this band of brothers, cousins and friends that have felt anything but fictional to me. I don't think I'll ever forget any of them, especially Ben King.
I just adored everything about him. A deep thinker who protects those he cares for, a nurturer who loves with all of his heart but often forgets about himself in the process. The oldest of Nan's grandsons was kind, selfless and generous when it came to his family and he felt responsible for all of them. He was unbelieveably talented and could shred his guitar until you weeped. Ben King was one sexy, gorgeous, swoonworthy man.
I'm not to say much more because discovering all the details as you read along are part of joy of a story like this one. Just be prepared to hibernate 'cos Ben and Chaya's emotional story has been building up from the beginning of this series and now it's finally here! It'll keep you glued to every page 'til your eyes are dry and burning, straight through the night if neccessary. Your heart might be put through the wringer, but you'll willingly absorb all the tears and smiles to see this couple through to the end of their story. Every book in this 5 book series was unique in it's own right but there was just something exceptional about Let Me Love You.
Bring tissues for a few plot twists ahead and find a quiet place to read while you watch Scarlett Cole spin the Sad Fridays family towards the inevitable conclusion to their wonderful story. I'm really going to miss these unforgettable characters soooo very much but I hope they find a way to pop up sometime again, somewhere in another book. I'm sure there are probably tons of other readers who feel the same way...ahem. What a world, what a series...I'm sad to leave them all now, but I'll back away slowly with a wink, a smile and a happy, happy sigh.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Chaya's family and practicing her Jewish faith were the most most important parts of her life. Well, beside her best friend- the man she secretly loved but could never have. Her father made it clear that marrying a man of their faith was what was expected of her and Ben was not incuded on his short list. The man she would marry had all the qualities her family thought were important, but try as she might to think otherwise, something was definitely missing.
Let Me Love You is book 5 in Scarlett Cole's amazing Excess All Areas rockstar romance series featuring her fictional Manchester based band, Sad Fridays. They rose from years of doing local gigs to the top of the charts, but were still humble and grateful for all they'd been blessed with. I am thrilled to have been along for the tumultuous ride with this band of brothers, cousins and friends that have felt anything but fictional to me. I don't think I'll ever forget any of them, especially Ben King.
I just adored everything about him. A deep thinker who protects those he cares for, a nurturer who loves with all of his heart but often forgets about himself in the process. The oldest of Nan's grandsons was kind, selfless and generous when it came to his family and he felt responsible for all of them. He was unbelieveably talented and could shred his guitar until you weeped. Ben King was one sexy, gorgeous, swoonworthy man.
I'm not to say much more because discovering all the details as you read along are part of joy of a story like this one. Just be prepared to hibernate 'cos Ben and Chaya's emotional story has been building up from the beginning of this series and now it's finally here! It'll keep you glued to every page 'til your eyes are dry and burning, straight through the night if neccessary. Your heart might be put through the wringer, but you'll willingly absorb all the tears and smiles to see this couple through to the end of their story. Every book in this 5 book series was unique in it's own right but there was just something exceptional about Let Me Love You.
Bring tissues for a few plot twists ahead and find a quiet place to read while you watch Scarlett Cole spin the Sad Fridays family towards the inevitable conclusion to their wonderful story. I'm really going to miss these unforgettable characters soooo very much but I hope they find a way to pop up sometime again, somewhere in another book. I'm sure there are probably tons of other readers who feel the same way...ahem. What a world, what a series...I'm sad to leave them all now, but I'll back away slowly with a wink, a smile and a happy, happy sigh.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an early copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
August 30, 2022
Scarlett Cole shows that love is not always easy but worth it in the last book in her Excess All Areas series, Let Me Love You, for a touching story.
Ben King, hard working, loyal and the glue that held his friends, family and ultimately his band the Sad Friday's together. It was virtually impossible not to fall in love with Ben. His kind heart and generosity were spread thin with all the people he looked out for yet the one thing he wanted for himself alone was denied to him for reasons beyond his control. Chaya Tobias was driven to be the best daughter, doctor and person she could be. Caught between adhering to the faith she was raised in and the callings of her heart her struggles were real and challenged her everyday. As a modern woman trying to balance her traditions with the life she was leading showed her to be an inspiring character.
Drawn together from the moment they met, Ben and Chaya feelings grew and matured as they did. Best friends who battled their circumstances as their feelings evolved from friendship to more, this couple had a hard road to find their happiness together. Combating their natural inclination to be nurturers and caregivers to everyone but themselves, seeing Ben and Chaya sort through their misconception that putting themselves first was selfish was heartbreaking. If any couple deserved a happily ever after it was this pair. Their connection had lots of steam but more importantly their connection felt soulful and fated. This couple's angst and torn feelings were extremely well communicated by Ms. Cole. It was hard not to be caught up in Ben and Chaya's situation and easy to see that they were meant to be together despite the obstacles thrown in their way. This was a wonderful couple that readers of this series were able to follow throughout the series and form a solid attachment to.
Every book in this series was well put together and added to the overall experience of this series. A colorful cast of characters kept this series memorable and lively but the standout character of this series was Rhoda "Nan" Palmer. With insight and spunky interactions her fierce devotion to her loved ones brought everything from laughter to tears. Belovedly fallible Nan wore her mistakes on her sleeves even as she reveled in her triumphs, portrayals don't get much better than Nan.
Scarlett Cole books are deliciously intense. Her writing is so beautifully raw and powerful, filled with genuine emotions expressed by not only this author but by extension her characters that it might just be the best symbiotic relationship to hit the pages. With thoughtful and topical subject matter this author's books take her audience's reading experiences to the next level. Her portrayal's mix of vulnerability and fortitude on their journeys of discovery are ones that leave lasting impressions. Let Me Love You was a great ending to a great series!
*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own. *
*While this book can be read as a standalone for an overall enhanced reading experience reading the prior books in this series is recommended.*
Ben King, hard working, loyal and the glue that held his friends, family and ultimately his band the Sad Friday's together. It was virtually impossible not to fall in love with Ben. His kind heart and generosity were spread thin with all the people he looked out for yet the one thing he wanted for himself alone was denied to him for reasons beyond his control. Chaya Tobias was driven to be the best daughter, doctor and person she could be. Caught between adhering to the faith she was raised in and the callings of her heart her struggles were real and challenged her everyday. As a modern woman trying to balance her traditions with the life she was leading showed her to be an inspiring character.
Drawn together from the moment they met, Ben and Chaya feelings grew and matured as they did. Best friends who battled their circumstances as their feelings evolved from friendship to more, this couple had a hard road to find their happiness together. Combating their natural inclination to be nurturers and caregivers to everyone but themselves, seeing Ben and Chaya sort through their misconception that putting themselves first was selfish was heartbreaking. If any couple deserved a happily ever after it was this pair. Their connection had lots of steam but more importantly their connection felt soulful and fated. This couple's angst and torn feelings were extremely well communicated by Ms. Cole. It was hard not to be caught up in Ben and Chaya's situation and easy to see that they were meant to be together despite the obstacles thrown in their way. This was a wonderful couple that readers of this series were able to follow throughout the series and form a solid attachment to.
Every book in this series was well put together and added to the overall experience of this series. A colorful cast of characters kept this series memorable and lively but the standout character of this series was Rhoda "Nan" Palmer. With insight and spunky interactions her fierce devotion to her loved ones brought everything from laughter to tears. Belovedly fallible Nan wore her mistakes on her sleeves even as she reveled in her triumphs, portrayals don't get much better than Nan.
Scarlett Cole books are deliciously intense. Her writing is so beautifully raw and powerful, filled with genuine emotions expressed by not only this author but by extension her characters that it might just be the best symbiotic relationship to hit the pages. With thoughtful and topical subject matter this author's books take her audience's reading experiences to the next level. Her portrayal's mix of vulnerability and fortitude on their journeys of discovery are ones that leave lasting impressions. Let Me Love You was a great ending to a great series!
*I was given an advanced copy. All opinions expressed are my own. *
*While this book can be read as a standalone for an overall enhanced reading experience reading the prior books in this series is recommended.*
August 30, 2022
ARC reçu en échange d’un avis honnête
TW: violence conjugale (pas dans le couple principal)
J’attendais avec impatience la sortie de ce cinquième et dernier tome pour savoir comment aller se finir cette série mais aussi et surtout pour enfin connaître l’histoire de Ben, le guitariste du groupe, et de Chaya sa meilleure amie avec qui on sent qu’il y a une certaine ambiguïté. Mais les choses ne sont pas si simples entre eux puisque Chaya va se marier mais pas avec Ben. Elle est déchirée entre sa foi et son amour pour un homme que son père n’approuve pas. Ben quant à lui est dévasté par la nouvelle. Il voudrait que Chaya réalise qu’il est l’homme qu’il lui faut malgré ce que pense son père. Et lorsqu’une tragédie les réunit, Ben va devoir décider s’il est prêt à se battre pour Chaya ou s’il veut la laisser partir pour toujours de sa vie…
J’ai adoré ce tome. Il est très intéressant et les personnages principaux sont géniaux. Chaya est très touchante. Elle essaie de vivre sa foi comme elle le veut mais subit beaucoup de pression de la part de son entourage. Elle a un passé difficile dont Ben l’a sauvé et c’est ce qui a créé un lien très fort entre eux. Elle a également beaucoup de mal avec la confrontation. C’est pour cela qu’elle préfère se laisser guider plutôt que de créer des conflits mais à cause de cela elle fait souvent passer son propre bonheur au second plan. Elle est altruiste, aimante et drôle et révèle un petit côté quand elle est avec Ben puisque ce dernier ne la juge pas et veut la faire passer avant les décisions des autres. Ben est tout aussi altruiste que Chaya voire un même un peu trop. Il fait toujours passer les autres avant lui, et cela peut être un détriment. Il est drôle, loyal et protecteur surtout envers les gens qu’il aime. Il est toujours là quand on a besoin de lui. J’ai adoré sa relation avec Chaya, en particulier la façon dont il respecte sa foi, même si lui-même n’est pas croyant. La relation entre eux est loin d’être simple mais elle est extrêmement forte et touchante et c’est l’une de mes préférées de la série.
Les thèmes abordés dans cette série sont très intéressants même s’ils sont parfois très sensibles, notamment en ce qui concerne la foi et le patriarcat. On ressent à quel point cela peut-être pesant pour Chaya. C’est un thème que je n’avais jamais lu en romance et j’ai trouvé que c’était très bien abordé ici. D’autres sujets tels que l’impact du passé des parents sur leurs enfants, la remise en question et l’entraide apportent un vrai plus à l’histoire. Tout est vraiment bien traité, à la fois avec respect et sensibilité et cela a été un gros point fort pour moi.
J’ai aussi eu quelques petits points faibles concernant le passé de Chaya. Il est extrêmement important dans son histoire avec Ben et est finalement peu développé ce que je trouve dommage. Il y a aussi certains éléments de l’histoire qui ont été réglés un peu trop rapidement ou de façon trop simpliste à mon goût.
Cela reste malgré tout un très bon tome qui conclut une très bonne série que je recommande vivement si vous cherchez des romances mêlant musique, famille et thèmes de société (attention ce sont souvent des sujets très sensibles). J’espère que cette série sera un jour traduite en français. J’attends maintenant avec impatience de voir ce que Scarlett Cole nous réserve pour la suite car elle ne m’a jamais déçue depuis que je l’ai découverte avec « The Strongest Steel« , premier tome de sa série « Second Circle Tattoos » (série coup de coeur que je recommande très fortement si vous ne l’avez pas encore lue).
https://kingdomofwordsblog.wordpress....
TW: violence conjugale (pas dans le couple principal)
J’attendais avec impatience la sortie de ce cinquième et dernier tome pour savoir comment aller se finir cette série mais aussi et surtout pour enfin connaître l’histoire de Ben, le guitariste du groupe, et de Chaya sa meilleure amie avec qui on sent qu’il y a une certaine ambiguïté. Mais les choses ne sont pas si simples entre eux puisque Chaya va se marier mais pas avec Ben. Elle est déchirée entre sa foi et son amour pour un homme que son père n’approuve pas. Ben quant à lui est dévasté par la nouvelle. Il voudrait que Chaya réalise qu’il est l’homme qu’il lui faut malgré ce que pense son père. Et lorsqu’une tragédie les réunit, Ben va devoir décider s’il est prêt à se battre pour Chaya ou s’il veut la laisser partir pour toujours de sa vie…
J’ai adoré ce tome. Il est très intéressant et les personnages principaux sont géniaux. Chaya est très touchante. Elle essaie de vivre sa foi comme elle le veut mais subit beaucoup de pression de la part de son entourage. Elle a un passé difficile dont Ben l’a sauvé et c’est ce qui a créé un lien très fort entre eux. Elle a également beaucoup de mal avec la confrontation. C’est pour cela qu’elle préfère se laisser guider plutôt que de créer des conflits mais à cause de cela elle fait souvent passer son propre bonheur au second plan. Elle est altruiste, aimante et drôle et révèle un petit côté quand elle est avec Ben puisque ce dernier ne la juge pas et veut la faire passer avant les décisions des autres. Ben est tout aussi altruiste que Chaya voire un même un peu trop. Il fait toujours passer les autres avant lui, et cela peut être un détriment. Il est drôle, loyal et protecteur surtout envers les gens qu’il aime. Il est toujours là quand on a besoin de lui. J’ai adoré sa relation avec Chaya, en particulier la façon dont il respecte sa foi, même si lui-même n’est pas croyant. La relation entre eux est loin d’être simple mais elle est extrêmement forte et touchante et c’est l’une de mes préférées de la série.
Les thèmes abordés dans cette série sont très intéressants même s’ils sont parfois très sensibles, notamment en ce qui concerne la foi et le patriarcat. On ressent à quel point cela peut-être pesant pour Chaya. C’est un thème que je n’avais jamais lu en romance et j’ai trouvé que c’était très bien abordé ici. D’autres sujets tels que l’impact du passé des parents sur leurs enfants, la remise en question et l’entraide apportent un vrai plus à l’histoire. Tout est vraiment bien traité, à la fois avec respect et sensibilité et cela a été un gros point fort pour moi.
J’ai aussi eu quelques petits points faibles concernant le passé de Chaya. Il est extrêmement important dans son histoire avec Ben et est finalement peu développé ce que je trouve dommage. Il y a aussi certains éléments de l’histoire qui ont été réglés un peu trop rapidement ou de façon trop simpliste à mon goût.
Cela reste malgré tout un très bon tome qui conclut une très bonne série que je recommande vivement si vous cherchez des romances mêlant musique, famille et thèmes de société (attention ce sont souvent des sujets très sensibles). J’espère que cette série sera un jour traduite en français. J’attends maintenant avec impatience de voir ce que Scarlett Cole nous réserve pour la suite car elle ne m’a jamais déçue depuis que je l’ai découverte avec « The Strongest Steel« , premier tome de sa série « Second Circle Tattoos » (série coup de coeur que je recommande très fortement si vous ne l’avez pas encore lue).
https://kingdomofwordsblog.wordpress....
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