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It Had to Be You
Preorder the BRAND NEW novel from Number 1 Bestselling author Beth Moran! ‘Another gorgeous tale from the queen of comfort reads’ Growing up, sisters Libby and Nicky never knew who they’d find at breakfast.
Their parents fostered children of all ages, and although the girls loved playing their part in providing a safe haven, it meant that life was rarely peaceful.
Now as a single mother of two, Libby’s life is still anything but peaceful. In her work as an antenatal coach, as well as for the charity she and Nicky run for teenage mothers, Libby uses all the skills she learnt growing up surrounded by children. Her days are full, caring for her family, the mothers-to-be and the latest strays she has welcomed into her home. But in the dark of the lonely nights, Libby worries she’s falling apart at the seams.
One troubled boy and a reckless decision she made thirteen years ago still haunts her.
Two hearts that were broken, still not mended.
The time has come for Libby to look out for herself. As her family, friends and her community have known forever, Libby is one of a kind, and if she can just learn to love herself, she may be able to welcome back the love she let slip through her fingers.
Uplifting, heart-warming and irresistibly good for the soul, it’s impossible not to fall in love with a Beth Moran story. Perfect for all fans of Jill Mansell, Julie Houston, and Jenny Colgan.
Their parents fostered children of all ages, and although the girls loved playing their part in providing a safe haven, it meant that life was rarely peaceful.
Now as a single mother of two, Libby’s life is still anything but peaceful. In her work as an antenatal coach, as well as for the charity she and Nicky run for teenage mothers, Libby uses all the skills she learnt growing up surrounded by children. Her days are full, caring for her family, the mothers-to-be and the latest strays she has welcomed into her home. But in the dark of the lonely nights, Libby worries she’s falling apart at the seams.
One troubled boy and a reckless decision she made thirteen years ago still haunts her.
Two hearts that were broken, still not mended.
The time has come for Libby to look out for herself. As her family, friends and her community have known forever, Libby is one of a kind, and if she can just learn to love herself, she may be able to welcome back the love she let slip through her fingers.
Uplifting, heart-warming and irresistibly good for the soul, it’s impossible not to fall in love with a Beth Moran story. Perfect for all fans of Jill Mansell, Julie Houston, and Jenny Colgan.
393 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 10, 2024
About the author
Beth Moran
18 books787 followersLibrarian Note: There is more than one author in the Goodreads database with this name.
Beth Moran initially worked as a biochemist and then taught antenatal classes before becoming an author. She loves to write contemporary women`s fiction set in and around Sherwood Forest, where she lives with her family
Beth Moran initially worked as a biochemist and then taught antenatal classes before becoming an author. She loves to write contemporary women`s fiction set in and around Sherwood Forest, where she lives with her family
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 113 reviews
April 30, 2024
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The Book Review Crew Blog
‘You don’t think love’s enough?’ ‘Not when it’s about a momentary feeling rather than a conscious choice, day in, day out, whether we feel like it or not.’
I have loved every book I've read by this author. Let It Snow , Take Me Home and Because You Loved Me were all four-star reads for me and I am happy to report that It Had to Be You did not disappoint. Moran's books are always realistic and detail-oriented.
In this one, we have Libby who is a single mother with a life in chaos. She has a messy house, runs a charity and is very work-oriented. I could relate...even though my boys are now 35 and 40 I remember those days and though I remember them with fondness they were also really hard.
This is a second-chance romance with now and then chapters. I enjoyed getting the backstory of the characters to see what they were like growing up. I am not a big romance fan but Beth Moran always adds something to her stories where the romance is secondary. Even though this is a romance it is in no way a fluffy read. Moran tackles some tough topics like mental health, parental abandonment, drugs, teenage pregnancy, divorce and extramarital affairs. I love that she writes about these issues in such a realistic way while being sensitive at the same time.
I loved the foster care angle, it was so refreshing to see a positive spin on it. I've read lots of thrillers with foster parents and they were always negative. Some of the stories in this book were so heartbreaking and I appreciated that the author showed a single teenage dad stepping up and taking responsibility, these are few and far between. I loved the side character, Nicky the most, she reminded me of my own sister in the way that she's always there for her sis no matter what. All in all a wonderful book on second chances, what it means to be a success and learning to love yourself.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
The Book Review Crew Blog
‘You don’t think love’s enough?’ ‘Not when it’s about a momentary feeling rather than a conscious choice, day in, day out, whether we feel like it or not.’
I have loved every book I've read by this author. Let It Snow , Take Me Home and Because You Loved Me were all four-star reads for me and I am happy to report that It Had to Be You did not disappoint. Moran's books are always realistic and detail-oriented.
In this one, we have Libby who is a single mother with a life in chaos. She has a messy house, runs a charity and is very work-oriented. I could relate...even though my boys are now 35 and 40 I remember those days and though I remember them with fondness they were also really hard.
This is a second-chance romance with now and then chapters. I enjoyed getting the backstory of the characters to see what they were like growing up. I am not a big romance fan but Beth Moran always adds something to her stories where the romance is secondary. Even though this is a romance it is in no way a fluffy read. Moran tackles some tough topics like mental health, parental abandonment, drugs, teenage pregnancy, divorce and extramarital affairs. I love that she writes about these issues in such a realistic way while being sensitive at the same time.
I loved the foster care angle, it was so refreshing to see a positive spin on it. I've read lots of thrillers with foster parents and they were always negative. Some of the stories in this book were so heartbreaking and I appreciated that the author showed a single teenage dad stepping up and taking responsibility, these are few and far between. I loved the side character, Nicky the most, she reminded me of my own sister in the way that she's always there for her sis no matter what. All in all a wonderful book on second chances, what it means to be a success and learning to love yourself.
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the Advance Readers Copy.
June 15, 2024
EXCERPT: I paused briefly as I read her name: Ellis.
I'd known an Ellis who'd been in foster care once. She must be about the same age as this one.
More significantly, I'd known her big brother.
I scanned straight to the box where people could add the names of their birth partner, my heart sinking - in either relief or disappointment, I wasn't sure - at the unfamiliar name.
The truth was, I'd not simply known him. He'd been my first kiss. The love of my life.
Loving him had nearly destroyed our family.
Losing him had almost destroyed me.
ABOUT 'IT HAD TO BE YOU': Growing up, sisters Libby and Nicky never knew who they’d find at breakfast.
Their parents fostered children of all ages, and although the girls loved playing their part in providing a safe haven, it meant that life was rarely peaceful.
Now as a single mother of two, Libby’s life is still anything but peaceful. In her work as an antenatal coach, as well as for the charity she and Nicky run for teenage mothers, Libby uses all the skills she learnt growing up surrounded by children. Her days are full, caring for her family, the mothers-to-be and the latest strays she has welcomed into her home. But in the dark of the lonely nights, Libby worries she’s falling apart at the seams.
One troubled boy and a reckless decision she made thirteen years ago still haunts her.
Two hearts that were broken, still not mended.
The time has come for Libby to look out for herself. As her family, friends and her community have known forever, Libby is one of a kind, and if she can just learn to love herself, she may be able to welcome back the love she let slip through her fingers.
MY THOUGHTS: I think most of us remember our first love with a little wistfulness, maybe a little regret, but we never forget them. Libby has never forgotten hers.
This is my first book by Beth Moran and it pulled me in very quickly. I found it hard enough parenting two children with a husband present, but Libby only has herself and the occasional help of her dad, plus she is running a demanding business. No wonder she never feels on top of anything! I found her easy to relate to and empathise with, especially the 'doing anything else to avoid dealing with her own problems' scenario. Been there, done that, got the t-shirt, and still I catch myself doing it every now and then! Libby has a big heart and just can't say no to anyone who needs her help. Perhaps it helps assuage her guilt over the events of 13 years ago . . . the event that ruined so many lives.
Nicky has her own problems in life, but just adores her younger sister. She wants to see her in a meaningful relationship - she deserves to be! - but Libby doesn't want or need any more complications in her life.
Need or not, she's going to get them when both her mother and first love Jonah wind up back in her life.
Beth Moran hasn't written a typical romance. In fact, the romance comes a clear second to the dramas in Libby's life - broken relationships, child behavioral problems, and an ex-husband who feels he has every right to hand out advice on her life to name but a few.
Told in a 'NOW' and 'THEN' format, Libby's current life is interspersed with the past, the circumstances which lead up to THAT event.
I really enjoyed It Had to be You. It is a quick, easy and emotional read that kept me rooting for Libby and her friends throughout.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.1
#ItHadtoBeYou #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Beth Moran initially worked as a biochemist and then taught antenatal classes before becoming an author. She loves to write contemporary women`s fiction set in and around Sherwood Forest, where she lives with her family.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Boldwood Books via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of It Had to be You by Beth Moran for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
I'd known an Ellis who'd been in foster care once. She must be about the same age as this one.
More significantly, I'd known her big brother.
I scanned straight to the box where people could add the names of their birth partner, my heart sinking - in either relief or disappointment, I wasn't sure - at the unfamiliar name.
The truth was, I'd not simply known him. He'd been my first kiss. The love of my life.
Loving him had nearly destroyed our family.
Losing him had almost destroyed me.
ABOUT 'IT HAD TO BE YOU': Growing up, sisters Libby and Nicky never knew who they’d find at breakfast.
Their parents fostered children of all ages, and although the girls loved playing their part in providing a safe haven, it meant that life was rarely peaceful.
Now as a single mother of two, Libby’s life is still anything but peaceful. In her work as an antenatal coach, as well as for the charity she and Nicky run for teenage mothers, Libby uses all the skills she learnt growing up surrounded by children. Her days are full, caring for her family, the mothers-to-be and the latest strays she has welcomed into her home. But in the dark of the lonely nights, Libby worries she’s falling apart at the seams.
One troubled boy and a reckless decision she made thirteen years ago still haunts her.
Two hearts that were broken, still not mended.
The time has come for Libby to look out for herself. As her family, friends and her community have known forever, Libby is one of a kind, and if she can just learn to love herself, she may be able to welcome back the love she let slip through her fingers.
MY THOUGHTS: I think most of us remember our first love with a little wistfulness, maybe a little regret, but we never forget them. Libby has never forgotten hers.
This is my first book by Beth Moran and it pulled me in very quickly. I found it hard enough parenting two children with a husband present, but Libby only has herself and the occasional help of her dad, plus she is running a demanding business. No wonder she never feels on top of anything! I found her easy to relate to and empathise with, especially the 'doing anything else to avoid dealing with her own problems' scenario. Been there, done that, got the t-shirt, and still I catch myself doing it every now and then! Libby has a big heart and just can't say no to anyone who needs her help. Perhaps it helps assuage her guilt over the events of 13 years ago . . . the event that ruined so many lives.
Nicky has her own problems in life, but just adores her younger sister. She wants to see her in a meaningful relationship - she deserves to be! - but Libby doesn't want or need any more complications in her life.
Need or not, she's going to get them when both her mother and first love Jonah wind up back in her life.
Beth Moran hasn't written a typical romance. In fact, the romance comes a clear second to the dramas in Libby's life - broken relationships, child behavioral problems, and an ex-husband who feels he has every right to hand out advice on her life to name but a few.
Told in a 'NOW' and 'THEN' format, Libby's current life is interspersed with the past, the circumstances which lead up to THAT event.
I really enjoyed It Had to be You. It is a quick, easy and emotional read that kept me rooting for Libby and her friends throughout.
⭐⭐⭐⭐.1
#ItHadtoBeYou #NetGalley
THE AUTHOR: Beth Moran initially worked as a biochemist and then taught antenatal classes before becoming an author. She loves to write contemporary women`s fiction set in and around Sherwood Forest, where she lives with her family.
DISCLOSURE: Thank you to Boldwood Books via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC of It Had to be You by Beth Moran for review. All opinions expressed in this review are entirely my own personal opinions.
https://sandysbookaday.wordpress.com/...
June 11, 2024
Can love last a lifetime? Libby devotes her life to helping young mothers. One young mother shows up with her brother who is someone from Libby’s past. The characters in this story are wonderful and bring the story to life. I enjoyed the dual timeline. Libby was my favorite character as she is so relatable she could be your best friend. If you enjoy books with a heart this is a book for you.
April 21, 2024
starting off with I absolutely enjoy beth moran’s books and the writing style. They are typically a little longer and maybe even overly detailed, but they are such wholesome and realistic books and characters that is very easy to read.
it had to be you focused was not your typical romance. it can be a harder read because of all the real life representation going on - toxic/unhealthy family relationships, broken family, social services and the foster care system, divorce and not having a handle on life. while the book could be condensed, following along libby’s trials as she gains back a hold on her life and household was interesting to read. I love the past and present telling because you really are able to understand what lead to the current day situations.
the book did end happily, as beth moran’s typically do. libby was able to mend her broken relationship with her mom, jonah and libby did have a second chance at love and a life together, and libby was also able to get a grasp on her life and structure with parenting.
it had to be you focused was not your typical romance. it can be a harder read because of all the real life representation going on - toxic/unhealthy family relationships, broken family, social services and the foster care system, divorce and not having a handle on life. while the book could be condensed, following along libby’s trials as she gains back a hold on her life and household was interesting to read. I love the past and present telling because you really are able to understand what lead to the current day situations.
the book did end happily, as beth moran’s typically do. libby was able to mend her broken relationship with her mom, jonah and libby did have a second chance at love and a life together, and libby was also able to get a grasp on her life and structure with parenting.
April 14, 2024
Libby' life is anything but quiet. Libby is starting to second guess some past decisions she has made. This book was a nice read
June 8, 2024
I can always count on Beth Moran to give me a great tragic love story with character growth and a valiant journey to find happiness again.
Told in past and present, you slowly learn Libby’s sad story where a young girl takes the weight of the world on her own shoulders looking for love and acceptance in her life. When her lost love Jonah returns, all the old feelings come back, but Libby needs to heal herself before she can move on.
The heart of this story is Libby. Her guilt with what happened 13 years ago has weighed heavy on her. Her life has not been easy as a single mom and then her past returns in full force. Libby is a good person who thrives on helping others, but she neglects herself. Jonah’s return is surprising, but Libby takes it in stride. His transformation from a brooding foster kid to a compassionate teacher is admirable and his unwavering devotion to his vulnerable sister is heartwarming. Jonah is a good man who has overcome so much and I love his patience and commitment to Libby.
Ms. Moran writes realistic imperfect characters who learn truths about themselves and strive to change for the better. This is so true for Libby and it is enlightening to see her become the bigger person by forgiving those who wronged her, but not allowing them to walk all over her anymore.
I love the idea of Libby and Nicky’s charity, Baby Bloomers, to empower single mothers to “defy the odds, smash the stereotypes, and conquer that long, hard road together”. Libby’s older sister Nicky is Libby’s protector and a force to be reckoned with. I admire her strength and her straight talk especially as she and Libby confront their long lost selfish mother.
If you enjoy poignant stories about real-life hardships, dysfunctional families, and second chances, give this book a try.
Thank you to Ms. Moran for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
Told in past and present, you slowly learn Libby’s sad story where a young girl takes the weight of the world on her own shoulders looking for love and acceptance in her life. When her lost love Jonah returns, all the old feelings come back, but Libby needs to heal herself before she can move on.
The heart of this story is Libby. Her guilt with what happened 13 years ago has weighed heavy on her. Her life has not been easy as a single mom and then her past returns in full force. Libby is a good person who thrives on helping others, but she neglects herself. Jonah’s return is surprising, but Libby takes it in stride. His transformation from a brooding foster kid to a compassionate teacher is admirable and his unwavering devotion to his vulnerable sister is heartwarming. Jonah is a good man who has overcome so much and I love his patience and commitment to Libby.
Ms. Moran writes realistic imperfect characters who learn truths about themselves and strive to change for the better. This is so true for Libby and it is enlightening to see her become the bigger person by forgiving those who wronged her, but not allowing them to walk all over her anymore.
I love the idea of Libby and Nicky’s charity, Baby Bloomers, to empower single mothers to “defy the odds, smash the stereotypes, and conquer that long, hard road together”. Libby’s older sister Nicky is Libby’s protector and a force to be reckoned with. I admire her strength and her straight talk especially as she and Libby confront their long lost selfish mother.
If you enjoy poignant stories about real-life hardships, dysfunctional families, and second chances, give this book a try.
Thank you to Ms. Moran for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
June 11, 2024
Beth Moran has done it again, she has written a another book that had me running through all my emotions, she always somehow manages to pull me through the wringer when I come out the other side I feel warm and uplifted.
It Had To Be You is such a wonderful story, I love how Beth has clearly used her experiences with foster care and put her heart into the story. Libby is a beautiful character that you can’t help but feel for and connect with, you’ll be routing for the best things for her and willing her on (or maybe that’s just me when I’m reading 😊)
I loved watching her growth, her being able to forgive others and move on, whilst not letting people treat her badly too. This book does deal with difficult issues, such as neglect, drug abuse, social services, broken family and divorce, its not a sweet lighthearted romance but a story that will pull every emotion from your body and that’s what I love with Beth Moran books so much, the genuine emotion I feel for the characters and their experiences, if you’re looking to really feel a story, this will fit the bill perfectly.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
It Had To Be You is such a wonderful story, I love how Beth has clearly used her experiences with foster care and put her heart into the story. Libby is a beautiful character that you can’t help but feel for and connect with, you’ll be routing for the best things for her and willing her on (or maybe that’s just me when I’m reading 😊)
I loved watching her growth, her being able to forgive others and move on, whilst not letting people treat her badly too. This book does deal with difficult issues, such as neglect, drug abuse, social services, broken family and divorce, its not a sweet lighthearted romance but a story that will pull every emotion from your body and that’s what I love with Beth Moran books so much, the genuine emotion I feel for the characters and their experiences, if you’re looking to really feel a story, this will fit the bill perfectly.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
June 12, 2024
Libby is a single mom whose life is in chaos. Her house is as messy as her life despite the fact that she successfully runs a charity devoted to helping young mothers and is very work oriented. One of the young mothers that turns up to her group is the sister of someone very important from her past. Jonah was Libby's first love and one she never truly got over, and as she second guesses her life choices just as he re-enters her life again, they get a second chance at what could have been. Jonah has become a good man who is patient and kind despite the chaos of Libby's life.
She also takes in one of the dads and his baby when he becomes homeless and the mom walks away and want nothing to do with the baby and he helps Libby get her house, and her life, in order.
This is not your typical second chance romance as there's a lot going on in Libby's world-toxic/unhealthy relationships, social services, foster care, broken families, just being some of it, but I liked that despite the semi heaviness of the story we got to get a happy ending
These are imperfect chat who get to know themselves and we get to watch them change for the better, especially in Libby's case, but even in a lot of the "Baby Bloomers" as the women of her charity are known.
The story is told in two timelines making it very easy to follow. I can't wait to read what the author writes next.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review.
She also takes in one of the dads and his baby when he becomes homeless and the mom walks away and want nothing to do with the baby and he helps Libby get her house, and her life, in order.
This is not your typical second chance romance as there's a lot going on in Libby's world-toxic/unhealthy relationships, social services, foster care, broken families, just being some of it, but I liked that despite the semi heaviness of the story we got to get a happy ending
These are imperfect chat who get to know themselves and we get to watch them change for the better, especially in Libby's case, but even in a lot of the "Baby Bloomers" as the women of her charity are known.
The story is told in two timelines making it very easy to follow. I can't wait to read what the author writes next.
Thanks to Boldwood Books and NetGalley for this eArc in exchange for my review.
June 13, 2024
I loved Beth’s latest book, It Had to Be You. You can tell right from the beginning that the subject matter is very close to the author’s heart and firsthand experience. I laughed a lot while reading, but I also cringed at some of the squeamish parts. I’m not sure I’d be very good at delivering a baby - too much mess for me!
As well as some fun and romance, Beth included many difficult topics in the book, such as teenage pregnancies, parental abuse and single mums and dads. It was particularly interesting to read how a single teenage dad coped with being thrust into fatherhood, with no support from his partner.
The book is a dual timeline story, flipping between present day and when our female protagonist, Libby, is sixteen and just about to sit her GCSEs. I enjoyed reading about her and her sister’s life growing up amongst the many foster kids who came through their home and how there were rules set in place to keep everyone comfortable and safe within the home.
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for the opportunity to read and review It Had to Be You by Beth Moran.
As well as some fun and romance, Beth included many difficult topics in the book, such as teenage pregnancies, parental abuse and single mums and dads. It was particularly interesting to read how a single teenage dad coped with being thrust into fatherhood, with no support from his partner.
The book is a dual timeline story, flipping between present day and when our female protagonist, Libby, is sixteen and just about to sit her GCSEs. I enjoyed reading about her and her sister’s life growing up amongst the many foster kids who came through their home and how there were rules set in place to keep everyone comfortable and safe within the home.
Thank you to NetGalley, Boldwood Books and Rachel’s Random Resources for the opportunity to read and review It Had to Be You by Beth Moran.
November 30, 2024
Absolutely vile, the way this book came out of left field and tore apart any of the emotions I have left
June 12, 2024
Мені сумно.
Бестселлер, але так погано написаний, що нецікаво було читати. Хоча ідея класна 😒
Бестселлер, але так погано написаний, що нецікаво було читати. Хоча ідея класна 😒
June 12, 2024
Libby and her sister Nicky grew up in foster homes.
Libby has a lot going on in her life, taking care of her kids and trying to make time for herself. Then there’s her ex husband to deal with.
This was an intense book that flips back and forth from past to present. There’s the possibility of a new romance for Libby. Lots of life drama in this book
Libby has a lot going on in her life, taking care of her kids and trying to make time for herself. Then there’s her ex husband to deal with.
This was an intense book that flips back and forth from past to present. There’s the possibility of a new romance for Libby. Lots of life drama in this book
April 17, 2024
Libby and Nicky grew up sharing their home and their parents with other kids. A foster family, they both loved helping support kids in need of a safe space and struggled to grasp the security and consistency they needed to. Now adults they run a program for vulnerable mothers to be together. Divorced and raising her kids without the father who walked out on the everyday is it’s own brand of chaos and struggle for Libby. When the troubled boy she loved at 17 turns up, her memories of the reckless choice she made 13 years ago, that lead to the destruction of her family as she knew it haunts her. But Jonah and his sister need her support and she is determined not to fail them, or let anything else in her life slip through the cracks either.
I really enjoyed this story. It was less of a romance then I anticipated but rather a story about life with some romance included. I love when an author lets a character give themselves an honest look in the eye and make adjustments to themselves accordingly, and I love when it’s done in a realistic way and @bethmoranauthor did that beautifully with Libby. She is a great character to start but her development through the story made her all the more endearing. This book does go through some hard subjects, neglect, adoption, drug use, abuse, but it’s handled with empathy.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and it won’t be the last.
Look for it June 10, 2024.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for letting me have an ARC copy to review.
I really enjoyed this story. It was less of a romance then I anticipated but rather a story about life with some romance included. I love when an author lets a character give themselves an honest look in the eye and make adjustments to themselves accordingly, and I love when it’s done in a realistic way and @bethmoranauthor did that beautifully with Libby. She is a great character to start but her development through the story made her all the more endearing. This book does go through some hard subjects, neglect, adoption, drug use, abuse, but it’s handled with empathy.
This is the first book I’ve read by this author and it won’t be the last.
Look for it June 10, 2024.
Thank you to Boldwood Books and Netgalley for letting me have an ARC copy to review.
October 8, 2024
cutest book
Full of heart, emotion, and laugh out loud moments. Complex characters with relatable challenges, and full of growth potential. Loved it.
Full of heart, emotion, and laugh out loud moments. Complex characters with relatable challenges, and full of growth potential. Loved it.
April 11, 2024
First and foremost, a big thank you to Beth Moran, Boldwood Books and NetGalley for the free ARC which allowed me to voluntarily provide an unbiased review and discover a new author.
It Had to Be You was a difficult read. It is not a lighthearted romance. There was so much focus on what a drag Libby’s life is. What kept me going was the “then” chapters. I wanted to know what happened between Libby and Jonah. I think Beth Moran could toned down the midwifery, antenatal and postnatal classes scenes and still emphasize its importance to Libby’s character.
I liked the Jonah and Libby scenes. Their romance is tragic but sweet and innocent. Their story is a perfect type for a second chance romance. I liked Libby’s accidental stand-in mother relationship to Toby. I liked that Libby had supportive family members in her life.
Regarding the language, Beth is clearly English and it shows in her writing. She used words either I am unfamiliar with or used in a way that is usual to me (e.g. pootled, mooched, fractious, askance, squillionth, fortnightly, rank, grassed, hair tongs, chuntered, codgers, bladdered, mardy, tosser, invigilator, and grandad). Even using the dictionary feature on my phone/Kindle didn’t always help me better understand what was being conveyed. Is this bad? Not necessarily, just it will limit her audience pool to those who understand British English lingo or can sweep it under the rug when faced with it.
Overall, the story is believable and very fleshed out. It just needs to be condensed, so the reader feels like the story is moving along.
TROPES/ THEMES: second chance romance, foster care and adoption, midwifery, antenatal and postnatal topics, small town vibe, tik tok and online culture
Read on for characters…
CHARACTERS (more or less in order of appearance):
Libby Donahue/ Franklin: 29 yo, Daisy’s instructor, antenatal and parenting class instructor , co-creater of Baby Bloomers
Daisy: 18 yo and 37 weeks pregnant
Tari: Daisy’s best friend
Raz: Daisy’s baby’s father, Daisy’s ex-fiancé until he cheated
Kaylee: expected mother of twins, same class as Daisy
Lisa: Daisy’s foster carer
Nicky: 31 yo, Libby’s older sister, co-creater of Baby Bloomers, GP, triathlon athlete, can’t have her own baby
Ingrid: foster carer
Lillian: labor suite reception
Theo: Nicky’s husband
Finn: Libby’s son
Isla: Libby’s daughter
Tony: 55 yo, retired foster, Nicky and Libby’s dad
Helen: retired foster, Nicky and Libby’s mom left the family to take a yearlong cruise to find herself after years to fostering then stayed away ending her 40 years of marriage to Tony
Brayden/ Brayve: Finn and Isla’s father, Libby’s ex-husband
Bolt: Daisy’s newborn son
Ellis: Jonah’s baby sister (10 years younger), newest member to Baby Bloomers
Jonah King: same age as Libby, he and his siblings were all raised in foster homes because of a “mother with mental health issues, scraping by on benefits, an uninterested dad and an extended family who didn’t care.”
Billy: Jonah’s younger brother
Sarah/ Silva: Brayden/Brayve’s pregnant girlfriend whom he cheated on Libby with, influencer
Other couples in Libby’s antenatal class:
Jamima and Chris, Claudia and ?, Gordon and Astrid
Alicia: Libby’s best friend
Mr. Matthews: Libby and Jonah’s teacher
Katie: Libby’s other friend, crush on Luke Hughes
Courtney: boyfriend Toby and daughter Hazel, she is disengaged in her daughter’s life and enjoying life as if single
Hazel: Toby’s mother, baby Hazel’s grandmother
Toby: Courtney’s girlfriend, takes care of baby Hazel, goes to school, good at woodworking/ furniture restoration, nice guy who helps out
Shanice: the manager at Bigley’s hair salon, Snips; previously a Bloomers, was impregnated by a drug dealer and has twin boys
Bob: lives at the Green House, married to Mary, Benny’s brother, fosters a bunch of teens
Benny: lives at the Green House, married to Maria, Bob’s brother, fosters a bunch of teens
Petra: 15 and six months pregnant, foster child living at the Green House
Leo: Ellis’ newborn son
QUOTES/ SCENES:
“I unwrapped the paper to find a journal, the cover decorated with trees, in the midst of which was a tiny, enchanting cottage. ‘I know your dream is to live all by yourself in the middle of a forest. Now you can write out your dreams inside one. I know it’s not quite the same, but, well…’ “
‘“I made her a mix tape to tell her I love her, ’cos I’ll never be able to tell her that I love her”? And that other song was literally about waiting in the garden in the middle of the night for the girl you can’t stop thinking about. You have to admit it’d be a weird coincidence.’ … Jonah had put on a song about a messed-up boy being in love with a ‘nice girl’. The chorus was all about how he needed to stay away because he was ‘too broken to not break her heart’.”
“‘What’s your treat, Libby?’ he asked. ‘How are you showing these guys that mums deserve to be happy, too?’”
“My door’s always open. I mean, metaphorically. Even if it isn’t, like, literally open”
“I’m upside down and inside out and have no idea who I am any more. I don’t know what’s going to happen or how this will end. I know that I can’t stop. And even if I could, I don’t want to. If this is falling in love, I want to keep on falling forever.”
“I was the one who ruined things. Not you. And what you gave me–that tiny shred of hope that I wasn’t the pointless freak I’d convinced myself I was. That someone like you could see something worth loving in me? Libby, you were the first person who made me want to survive, not for Ellis or Billy, but for me. You saved me.”
“ ‘I already miss you,’ I said. ‘I miss you when you hide in your bedroom for days on end. When you turn in the opposite direction to avoid me in the corridor at school. When I creep down to the garden at night and you’re not here. Or I hang about for a pathetically long time in the kitchen, but you don’t show up. The thought of you moving somewhere else, where I can’t accidentally bump into you on the stairs, makes me miss you so hard I can somehow pretend I’m happy for you to stay as my foster brother. As Bronah. The thought of you never being here? Jonah, if you died, half my heart would die with you.’ “
“ ‘The only way I’m becoming part of your family is if you marry me.’ ‘Woah. That’s a big statement.’ ‘So is I love you.’ “
“ ‘This is me telling you that you were right. It was real. I wouldn’t have believed it was possible to love you more than I did back then.’ He shook his head in amazement. ‘I love you more every time we speak. You are the most incredible person I’ve ever met.’ “
“ ‘I have loved you for so long, I can’t fathom a second of my life without you in it. Libby, I love your kids, your ugly, smelly dog. Your parents and random lodger. I am undone by how you love my brother and sister, and my nephew. A while ago I told you that if you asked me to be a part of your family, I’d say yes. I’ve given up waiting to be asked; I’m inviting myself in. If you’ll have me? Us? I know that coming as a gang means it won’t always be easy. But, Libby Franklin, will you marry me?’ “
It Had to Be You was a difficult read. It is not a lighthearted romance. There was so much focus on what a drag Libby’s life is. What kept me going was the “then” chapters. I wanted to know what happened between Libby and Jonah. I think Beth Moran could toned down the midwifery, antenatal and postnatal classes scenes and still emphasize its importance to Libby’s character.
I liked the Jonah and Libby scenes. Their romance is tragic but sweet and innocent. Their story is a perfect type for a second chance romance. I liked Libby’s accidental stand-in mother relationship to Toby. I liked that Libby had supportive family members in her life.
Regarding the language, Beth is clearly English and it shows in her writing. She used words either I am unfamiliar with or used in a way that is usual to me (e.g. pootled, mooched, fractious, askance, squillionth, fortnightly, rank, grassed, hair tongs, chuntered, codgers, bladdered, mardy, tosser, invigilator, and grandad). Even using the dictionary feature on my phone/Kindle didn’t always help me better understand what was being conveyed. Is this bad? Not necessarily, just it will limit her audience pool to those who understand British English lingo or can sweep it under the rug when faced with it.
Overall, the story is believable and very fleshed out. It just needs to be condensed, so the reader feels like the story is moving along.
TROPES/ THEMES: second chance romance, foster care and adoption, midwifery, antenatal and postnatal topics, small town vibe, tik tok and online culture
Read on for characters…
CHARACTERS (more or less in order of appearance):
Libby Donahue/ Franklin: 29 yo, Daisy’s instructor, antenatal and parenting class instructor , co-creater of Baby Bloomers
Daisy: 18 yo and 37 weeks pregnant
Tari: Daisy’s best friend
Raz: Daisy’s baby’s father, Daisy’s ex-fiancé until he cheated
Kaylee: expected mother of twins, same class as Daisy
Lisa: Daisy’s foster carer
Nicky: 31 yo, Libby’s older sister, co-creater of Baby Bloomers, GP, triathlon athlete, can’t have her own baby
Ingrid: foster carer
Lillian: labor suite reception
Theo: Nicky’s husband
Finn: Libby’s son
Isla: Libby’s daughter
Tony: 55 yo, retired foster, Nicky and Libby’s dad
Helen: retired foster, Nicky and Libby’s mom left the family to take a yearlong cruise to find herself after years to fostering then stayed away ending her 40 years of marriage to Tony
Brayden/ Brayve: Finn and Isla’s father, Libby’s ex-husband
Bolt: Daisy’s newborn son
Ellis: Jonah’s baby sister (10 years younger), newest member to Baby Bloomers
Jonah King: same age as Libby, he and his siblings were all raised in foster homes because of a “mother with mental health issues, scraping by on benefits, an uninterested dad and an extended family who didn’t care.”
Billy: Jonah’s younger brother
Sarah/ Silva: Brayden/Brayve’s pregnant girlfriend whom he cheated on Libby with, influencer
Other couples in Libby’s antenatal class:
Jamima and Chris, Claudia and ?, Gordon and Astrid
Alicia: Libby’s best friend
Mr. Matthews: Libby and Jonah’s teacher
Katie: Libby’s other friend, crush on Luke Hughes
Courtney: boyfriend Toby and daughter Hazel, she is disengaged in her daughter’s life and enjoying life as if single
Hazel: Toby’s mother, baby Hazel’s grandmother
Toby: Courtney’s girlfriend, takes care of baby Hazel, goes to school, good at woodworking/ furniture restoration, nice guy who helps out
Shanice: the manager at Bigley’s hair salon, Snips; previously a Bloomers, was impregnated by a drug dealer and has twin boys
Bob: lives at the Green House, married to Mary, Benny’s brother, fosters a bunch of teens
Benny: lives at the Green House, married to Maria, Bob’s brother, fosters a bunch of teens
Petra: 15 and six months pregnant, foster child living at the Green House
Leo: Ellis’ newborn son
QUOTES/ SCENES:
“I unwrapped the paper to find a journal, the cover decorated with trees, in the midst of which was a tiny, enchanting cottage. ‘I know your dream is to live all by yourself in the middle of a forest. Now you can write out your dreams inside one. I know it’s not quite the same, but, well…’ “
‘“I made her a mix tape to tell her I love her, ’cos I’ll never be able to tell her that I love her”? And that other song was literally about waiting in the garden in the middle of the night for the girl you can’t stop thinking about. You have to admit it’d be a weird coincidence.’ … Jonah had put on a song about a messed-up boy being in love with a ‘nice girl’. The chorus was all about how he needed to stay away because he was ‘too broken to not break her heart’.”
“‘What’s your treat, Libby?’ he asked. ‘How are you showing these guys that mums deserve to be happy, too?’”
“My door’s always open. I mean, metaphorically. Even if it isn’t, like, literally open”
“I’m upside down and inside out and have no idea who I am any more. I don’t know what’s going to happen or how this will end. I know that I can’t stop. And even if I could, I don’t want to. If this is falling in love, I want to keep on falling forever.”
“I was the one who ruined things. Not you. And what you gave me–that tiny shred of hope that I wasn’t the pointless freak I’d convinced myself I was. That someone like you could see something worth loving in me? Libby, you were the first person who made me want to survive, not for Ellis or Billy, but for me. You saved me.”
“ ‘I already miss you,’ I said. ‘I miss you when you hide in your bedroom for days on end. When you turn in the opposite direction to avoid me in the corridor at school. When I creep down to the garden at night and you’re not here. Or I hang about for a pathetically long time in the kitchen, but you don’t show up. The thought of you moving somewhere else, where I can’t accidentally bump into you on the stairs, makes me miss you so hard I can somehow pretend I’m happy for you to stay as my foster brother. As Bronah. The thought of you never being here? Jonah, if you died, half my heart would die with you.’ “
“ ‘The only way I’m becoming part of your family is if you marry me.’ ‘Woah. That’s a big statement.’ ‘So is I love you.’ “
“ ‘This is me telling you that you were right. It was real. I wouldn’t have believed it was possible to love you more than I did back then.’ He shook his head in amazement. ‘I love you more every time we speak. You are the most incredible person I’ve ever met.’ “
“ ‘I have loved you for so long, I can’t fathom a second of my life without you in it. Libby, I love your kids, your ugly, smelly dog. Your parents and random lodger. I am undone by how you love my brother and sister, and my nephew. A while ago I told you that if you asked me to be a part of your family, I’d say yes. I’ve given up waiting to be asked; I’m inviting myself in. If you’ll have me? Us? I know that coming as a gang means it won’t always be easy. But, Libby Franklin, will you marry me?’ “
June 11, 2024
Not the best way to start a review, but I wasn’t sure at first that this was going to be the book for me – as Libby is barely keeping her head above water while juggling being the best mother she can be with working as an ante-natal coach and running (with help of her far more organised GP sister Nicky) their charity for troubled teenage mothers. It’s all distinctly chaotic and uncomfortable (well, it was for me anyway…), but – with the unwelcome arrival of her ex-husband and his pregnant new partner in one of her classes, and an awareness that she really does need to get her life under some semblance of control – she decides that the time has come to make some changes.
An unexpected arrival on her doorstep – a homeless young father and his baby – provide welcome help and support, when she might have rather expected things to be the other way around. But she’s also dealing with a major issue from the past – the reappearance of Jonah, once fostered by her family and the teenage love of her life, now supporting his addicted younger sister to her ante-natal classes. Their earlier relationship ended badly, with repercussions for her parents’ marriage too – and, as they get to know each other again, and discover both what happened in the missing years and the fact that there’s still a strong spark between them, we also find out in flashback what really happened thirteen years before.
The author unfailingly makes me ache for her characters, feel their anguish and pain – her emotional touch is just perfect – and there were so many moments that broke my heart. And this book really does deal with a number of particularly difficult issues – teenage pregnancy, child neglect and abuse, drug use, the challenges of motherhood – all handled with the surest of touches. But it’s often nicely balanced by humour, and there’s joy between the pages too with a focus on friendship and family and second chances – all as Libby begins to shed her feelings of inadequacy and guilt, and feels able to consider the possibility of a brighter future.
This was such an engaging read – emotional at times, sometimes painful, but ultimately so wonderfully uplifting and filled with hope. One I’d very much recommend to others – and the author’s writing just continues to get better and better with every book.
An unexpected arrival on her doorstep – a homeless young father and his baby – provide welcome help and support, when she might have rather expected things to be the other way around. But she’s also dealing with a major issue from the past – the reappearance of Jonah, once fostered by her family and the teenage love of her life, now supporting his addicted younger sister to her ante-natal classes. Their earlier relationship ended badly, with repercussions for her parents’ marriage too – and, as they get to know each other again, and discover both what happened in the missing years and the fact that there’s still a strong spark between them, we also find out in flashback what really happened thirteen years before.
The author unfailingly makes me ache for her characters, feel their anguish and pain – her emotional touch is just perfect – and there were so many moments that broke my heart. And this book really does deal with a number of particularly difficult issues – teenage pregnancy, child neglect and abuse, drug use, the challenges of motherhood – all handled with the surest of touches. But it’s often nicely balanced by humour, and there’s joy between the pages too with a focus on friendship and family and second chances – all as Libby begins to shed her feelings of inadequacy and guilt, and feels able to consider the possibility of a brighter future.
This was such an engaging read – emotional at times, sometimes painful, but ultimately so wonderfully uplifting and filled with hope. One I’d very much recommend to others – and the author’s writing just continues to get better and better with every book.
September 6, 2024
4.5 stars: I have read and enjoyed several of Beth Moran's romance stories and It Had to Be You was another winner for me. Libby and Nicki grew up in a loving home where her parents were foster parents. They never knew who would be at their breakfast table. Now they run a charity for teenage mothers and Libby is an antenatal coach. She is also a single mother who is crazy busy, with only limited help from her dad. She is worried that she is coming unraveled. When she comes face to face with the boy, now a man, who she loved thirteen years ago, she has to figure out what she wants from life and if she is willing to take a chance to love again.
This is a wonderful story of second chances. Libby spends all her time taking care of everyone else, and needs to decide if it is time for her to take care of herself. The story is told in a dual timeline of then and now as we learn about young Libby and what her dreams and plans were. Nicky has her own problems, but wants her sister to be happy. With her mother and Jonah coming back into her life, she is dealing with that and her residual feelings and maybe some guilt. Then there is her ex-husband, who thinks he knows best and tries to tell her what she should be doing. Although this is a second chance romance, it is also a story of personal growth, making choices for yourself, not always for others, and taking a chance on being happy. I really enjoyed this story and recommend it.
This is a wonderful story of second chances. Libby spends all her time taking care of everyone else, and needs to decide if it is time for her to take care of herself. The story is told in a dual timeline of then and now as we learn about young Libby and what her dreams and plans were. Nicky has her own problems, but wants her sister to be happy. With her mother and Jonah coming back into her life, she is dealing with that and her residual feelings and maybe some guilt. Then there is her ex-husband, who thinks he knows best and tries to tell her what she should be doing. Although this is a second chance romance, it is also a story of personal growth, making choices for yourself, not always for others, and taking a chance on being happy. I really enjoyed this story and recommend it.
June 18, 2024
I sought out this author on Kindle hoping to find one I hadn’t read while sleeping in the car with my one year old as we were camping and he was waking up the whole campsite crying in the tent…needless to say I was excited to find a brand new book and grateful for a heartwarming story during an otherwise long night! Love these books. They are easy reads, but not fluffy. They tackle hard issues and don’t sugarcoat the difficulties of foster parenting or teenage pregnancies, but still offer hope and a good story.
October 16, 2024
A nice story with few suprises but still satisfying. Libby and her sister grew up in a house with a revolving door for foster kids, and everything changed when Jonah came into their lives. A disastrous decision changes their lives and those around them.
A single mum helping other single mums, a chaotic household, a wimp of an ex husband and a jealous girlfriend all come into the mix and add (and subtract) the chaos of the household and business.
A fun read with no real effort required!
A single mum helping other single mums, a chaotic household, a wimp of an ex husband and a jealous girlfriend all come into the mix and add (and subtract) the chaos of the household and business.
A fun read with no real effort required!
August 23, 2024
I am a sucker for a redemption story
November 28, 2024
First book of Beth Moran's i have read. Wow. What a complicated love story. I loved Libby and Jonah's story. It made me cry, smile. Thank you Beth.
June 10, 2024
Such an easy read!
Libby and Nicky are sisters who had a lively childhood; as the natural children of foster carers, they never knew who they wouold be sharing their home with. These days, they are all grown up; Libby is a divorced mother of two running her own business, Nicky is a GP and they are still close. However, that's more than could be said for their parents. Their mother took off on a world trip and is yet to return while their father has never quite known why. Whilst Nicky lives an ordered life, but Libby feels as if she is constantly struggling with everything and never quite getting on top of anything. Then there's a blast from the past and everything goes off-kilter . . .
I've yet to come acriss any work of this author's that I didn't enjoy and this one is such an easy read, pulling me in from the very start and with characters I really empathised with. I found myself struggling to set it aside to get anything else done and, as a result, read it in a day. Beautifully crafted characters and an enticing storyline all add up to an excellent read and one I'm very happy to recommend. 5*.
Libby and Nicky are sisters who had a lively childhood; as the natural children of foster carers, they never knew who they wouold be sharing their home with. These days, they are all grown up; Libby is a divorced mother of two running her own business, Nicky is a GP and they are still close. However, that's more than could be said for their parents. Their mother took off on a world trip and is yet to return while their father has never quite known why. Whilst Nicky lives an ordered life, but Libby feels as if she is constantly struggling with everything and never quite getting on top of anything. Then there's a blast from the past and everything goes off-kilter . . .
I've yet to come acriss any work of this author's that I didn't enjoy and this one is such an easy read, pulling me in from the very start and with characters I really empathised with. I found myself struggling to set it aside to get anything else done and, as a result, read it in a day. Beautifully crafted characters and an enticing storyline all add up to an excellent read and one I'm very happy to recommend. 5*.
June 9, 2024
I absolutely loved this story of second-chance romance and found myself turning the pages, hoping for clues of a happy ending. Of course, Beth Moran controls the story carefully and reveals each element slowly. Each morsel leads toward the final payoff, and I loved every moment.
When we first meet her, Libby is a little bit broken. She is under the illusion that she’s coping well with her life and doing a great job of raising her children and running a business. However, it’s not long before the reader becomes aware that the piles of mess and unimaginative meals are symptoms of a breaking heart. As the book tells us more about her past, we get a clear insight into the events that led to her downward path.
Along with her sister, Nicky, Libby runs a centre that helps parents discover more about what is in store for them when their baby arrives. Thankfully, Libby’s background is as a midwife and Nicky works as a GP. Together they coach couples in all forms as well as single parents. They dedicate a part of their service to troubled teens, as when they were growing up, their parents fostered children who may otherwise have been lost in the care system. With each element of detail about Libby’s past, I was able to gain a better understanding of how she came to be so sad, and how she could perhaps find her way back to happiness.
Parts of this story are poignant, and others are comedic. I particularly enjoyed her blossoming friendship with Toby and the way he clearly saw what she needed and helped in a way that seemed to be about him rather than her. That friendship was inspiring and beautifully handled. Her relationship with her Dad was beautiful, and I could imagine his presence as she became stronger and more in control of her actions.
I was less inspired by Libby’s feckless ex-husband and her absentee mother, but even the irredeemable are offered a safety net in this beautifully uplifting story that left me feeling warm and contented.
When we first meet her, Libby is a little bit broken. She is under the illusion that she’s coping well with her life and doing a great job of raising her children and running a business. However, it’s not long before the reader becomes aware that the piles of mess and unimaginative meals are symptoms of a breaking heart. As the book tells us more about her past, we get a clear insight into the events that led to her downward path.
Along with her sister, Nicky, Libby runs a centre that helps parents discover more about what is in store for them when their baby arrives. Thankfully, Libby’s background is as a midwife and Nicky works as a GP. Together they coach couples in all forms as well as single parents. They dedicate a part of their service to troubled teens, as when they were growing up, their parents fostered children who may otherwise have been lost in the care system. With each element of detail about Libby’s past, I was able to gain a better understanding of how she came to be so sad, and how she could perhaps find her way back to happiness.
Parts of this story are poignant, and others are comedic. I particularly enjoyed her blossoming friendship with Toby and the way he clearly saw what she needed and helped in a way that seemed to be about him rather than her. That friendship was inspiring and beautifully handled. Her relationship with her Dad was beautiful, and I could imagine his presence as she became stronger and more in control of her actions.
I was less inspired by Libby’s feckless ex-husband and her absentee mother, but even the irredeemable are offered a safety net in this beautifully uplifting story that left me feeling warm and contented.
June 7, 2024
Libby is a 29yr old single mum to two small children, as well as running a charity and a business. She teaches antenatal classes and post-birth baby care classes to teen mums as well as older couples who are also pregnant. But Libby is struggling to keep her life together, her cottage needs to be tidied up and repairs made, she's trying to stop her daughter from having constant meltdowns as well as trying to check up on all the new teen mums around her.
Things start to change for Libby though when a young teen dad turns up on her doorstep with his baby daughter after the baby's mum decides she doesn't want to be a mum anymore. This kid is working in construction and in return for free board, he has started fixing everything in Libby's cottage, he also has younger siblings he helped his own single mum raise so he helps Libby with her two children. All of this means Libby gets some much needed time to herself, which she definitely needs because she has two big things in her life to deal with - the boy (now man) that broke her heart and her mum, who has turned up again after 5yrs of being out of touch.
Libby met Jonah as a teenager when he was being fostered by her parents. The both developed feelings for each other but nothing happens for a long time, until one day they're home alone and they admit they love each other and kiss. That night, Libby sneaks into Jonah's room and though nothing really happens, they fall asleep and are found in bed together the next morning. This causes Libby's parents to have a complete meltdown and they kick Jonah out and the plan to adopt Jonah and his two young siblings goes along with him.
But then Jonah turns back up in Libby's life - his younger sister is pregnant and she needs help so they start attending Libby's classes. It's obvious Libby and Jonah still had feelings for one another and it takes some time and some talking to fill in the gaps they've missed out on. At one point it looks like they're going to be able to make it this time around but they both have complicated lives and as much as they may want to, it's not so easy to slot easily into someone else's mess.
Libby's mum never really forgives her for what happened with Jonah and after a few years she decides that she needs to leave and rediscover herself, leaving Libby, her older sister and their dad. The girls are in their 20's by this point but they still need their mum as things in their lives fall apart around them. But then she turns up again, almost like nothing has happened, and expects the girls to welcome her home but they're both too angry to let her back into their lives.
I thought this book was really well written and I like that it was told in a dual timeline so we can see how Libby and Jonah fell in love as teenagers, while watching them reconnect as adults. It also helps to explain some of the background to what happened with Libby's mum and dad. The characters are well rounded and relatable and I felt like Libby was someone who, while struggling, was open to admitting things needed to change in her life.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
Things start to change for Libby though when a young teen dad turns up on her doorstep with his baby daughter after the baby's mum decides she doesn't want to be a mum anymore. This kid is working in construction and in return for free board, he has started fixing everything in Libby's cottage, he also has younger siblings he helped his own single mum raise so he helps Libby with her two children. All of this means Libby gets some much needed time to herself, which she definitely needs because she has two big things in her life to deal with - the boy (now man) that broke her heart and her mum, who has turned up again after 5yrs of being out of touch.
Libby met Jonah as a teenager when he was being fostered by her parents. The both developed feelings for each other but nothing happens for a long time, until one day they're home alone and they admit they love each other and kiss. That night, Libby sneaks into Jonah's room and though nothing really happens, they fall asleep and are found in bed together the next morning. This causes Libby's parents to have a complete meltdown and they kick Jonah out and the plan to adopt Jonah and his two young siblings goes along with him.
But then Jonah turns back up in Libby's life - his younger sister is pregnant and she needs help so they start attending Libby's classes. It's obvious Libby and Jonah still had feelings for one another and it takes some time and some talking to fill in the gaps they've missed out on. At one point it looks like they're going to be able to make it this time around but they both have complicated lives and as much as they may want to, it's not so easy to slot easily into someone else's mess.
Libby's mum never really forgives her for what happened with Jonah and after a few years she decides that she needs to leave and rediscover herself, leaving Libby, her older sister and their dad. The girls are in their 20's by this point but they still need their mum as things in their lives fall apart around them. But then she turns up again, almost like nothing has happened, and expects the girls to welcome her home but they're both too angry to let her back into their lives.
I thought this book was really well written and I like that it was told in a dual timeline so we can see how Libby and Jonah fell in love as teenagers, while watching them reconnect as adults. It also helps to explain some of the background to what happened with Libby's mum and dad. The characters are well rounded and relatable and I felt like Libby was someone who, while struggling, was open to admitting things needed to change in her life.
Thanks to NetGalley and Boldwood Books for the opportunity to read and review this ARC.
May 16, 2024
Thank you to NetGalley and the publishers for an advanced copy of It Had to Be You in exchange for a review.
YES the new Beth Moran book is here and YES OF COURSE it’s another perfect smasher! One of my absolute favourite authors, I can always rely on Beth to provide characters I become deeply invested in, some laughs, some tears, some truly hard-hitting themes, a brilliant story that never gets boring for a second, and a fab ending. What more can I want for?
In this latest story, we follow 29-year-old Libby – a single mum of two, struggling to balance everything going on in her life. From her antenatal classes with rich couples to her charity supporting teenage mums through pregnancy and birth, to her own home life with two young kids and a ‘dropout’ ex-husband she can’t rely on – and his new life with his influencer girlfriend he left her for.
In the present day, an older brother of a pregnant teenager gets in touch with Libby to ask for help – the name is similar to someone from her past. But, it can’t be him, can it? We then flit between the present and 13 years ago, when a troubled teenage boy came to live with Libby, her sister Nicky and their parents, and how she came to have her heart broken for the first time.
The story touched on some difficult themes with the teenage mums that Libby supports – the sub-story with teen dad Toby and baby Hazel was incredibly moving – both sad and uplifting in equal measure! And – oh! – Libby and Jonah is just the most gorgeous love story and my heart broke for them multiple times. The description of Libby’s teenage feelings for him was just perfect and really filled my heart with that powerful young love feeling that I remember so well!
Perfection once again!
YES the new Beth Moran book is here and YES OF COURSE it’s another perfect smasher! One of my absolute favourite authors, I can always rely on Beth to provide characters I become deeply invested in, some laughs, some tears, some truly hard-hitting themes, a brilliant story that never gets boring for a second, and a fab ending. What more can I want for?
In this latest story, we follow 29-year-old Libby – a single mum of two, struggling to balance everything going on in her life. From her antenatal classes with rich couples to her charity supporting teenage mums through pregnancy and birth, to her own home life with two young kids and a ‘dropout’ ex-husband she can’t rely on – and his new life with his influencer girlfriend he left her for.
In the present day, an older brother of a pregnant teenager gets in touch with Libby to ask for help – the name is similar to someone from her past. But, it can’t be him, can it? We then flit between the present and 13 years ago, when a troubled teenage boy came to live with Libby, her sister Nicky and their parents, and how she came to have her heart broken for the first time.
The story touched on some difficult themes with the teenage mums that Libby supports – the sub-story with teen dad Toby and baby Hazel was incredibly moving – both sad and uplifting in equal measure! And – oh! – Libby and Jonah is just the most gorgeous love story and my heart broke for them multiple times. The description of Libby’s teenage feelings for him was just perfect and really filled my heart with that powerful young love feeling that I remember so well!
Perfection once again!
June 9, 2024
It Had to be You by Beth Moran
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Their parents fostered children of all ages, and although the girls loved playing their part in providing a safe haven, it meant that life was rarely peaceful.
Now as a single mother of two, Libby’s life is still anything but peaceful. In her work as an antenatal coach, as well as for the charity she and Nicky run for teenage mothers, Libby uses all the skills she learnt growing up surrounded by children. Her days are full, caring for her family, the mothers-to-be and the latest strays she has welcomed into her home. But in the dark of the lonely nights, Libby worries she’s falling apart at the seams.
One troubled boy and a reckless decision she made thirteen years ago still haunts her.
Two hearts that were broken, still not mended.
The time has come for Libby to look out for herself. As her family, friends and her community have known forever, Libby is one of a kind, and if she can just learn to love herself, she may be able to welcome back the love she let slip through her fingers.
My Opinion
Beth Moran writes some lovely books. This was one that I finished in an afternoon as it was just so easy to read. Moran uses chapter headings to tell this story in two different timelines, making it very easy to follow. Libby and her sister Nicky have always been close, they even share a business. A very relatable novel with some great characters.
I have now read quite a few books by Beth Moran and so far I have not been disappointed.
Rating 4/5
I received an advance review copy for free thanks to Rachel's Random Resources and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Blurb
Their parents fostered children of all ages, and although the girls loved playing their part in providing a safe haven, it meant that life was rarely peaceful.
Now as a single mother of two, Libby’s life is still anything but peaceful. In her work as an antenatal coach, as well as for the charity she and Nicky run for teenage mothers, Libby uses all the skills she learnt growing up surrounded by children. Her days are full, caring for her family, the mothers-to-be and the latest strays she has welcomed into her home. But in the dark of the lonely nights, Libby worries she’s falling apart at the seams.
One troubled boy and a reckless decision she made thirteen years ago still haunts her.
Two hearts that were broken, still not mended.
The time has come for Libby to look out for herself. As her family, friends and her community have known forever, Libby is one of a kind, and if she can just learn to love herself, she may be able to welcome back the love she let slip through her fingers.
My Opinion
Beth Moran writes some lovely books. This was one that I finished in an afternoon as it was just so easy to read. Moran uses chapter headings to tell this story in two different timelines, making it very easy to follow. Libby and her sister Nicky have always been close, they even share a business. A very relatable novel with some great characters.
I have now read quite a few books by Beth Moran and so far I have not been disappointed.
Rating 4/5
June 23, 2024
We all remember our first love, just like Libby, our main character. Her heart was forever changed by her first love.
I had never read anything by Beth Moran before this book and I have to say that it grabbed me right from the beginning.
Dealing with two kids is hard enough when you have a partner to help out; however, she does it alone most of the time while also trying to run an extremely successful business with only occasional support from her father who lives miles away – no wonder she feels swamped every single day. But despite all this generosity that seems so ingrained within Libby’s nature – not being able to turn down anyone who needs help – could just only be an attempt to lessen the weight of guilt over an incident thirteen years ago that had long-reaching effects.
However much Nicky loves her little sister, despite her problems, she wants nothing more than seeing ‘the right man’ come into Libby's life because that girl deserves it more than anyone; but then again love itself can sometimes complicate things too much for our liking or expectations… and that happens when her estranged mother and her first love, Jonah, reappear in her life.
Libby and her friends had me rooting for them the whole time because they were such strong characters with depth who were relatable to many different people. It might seem like nothing much happens plot-wise; however, this story is anything but boring thanks to its quick pace paired up with an engaging narrative that is anything but dry.
It was a delightful dual-time story and I enjoyed reading it.
Thank you to Boldwood Books via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC.
I had never read anything by Beth Moran before this book and I have to say that it grabbed me right from the beginning.
Dealing with two kids is hard enough when you have a partner to help out; however, she does it alone most of the time while also trying to run an extremely successful business with only occasional support from her father who lives miles away – no wonder she feels swamped every single day. But despite all this generosity that seems so ingrained within Libby’s nature – not being able to turn down anyone who needs help – could just only be an attempt to lessen the weight of guilt over an incident thirteen years ago that had long-reaching effects.
However much Nicky loves her little sister, despite her problems, she wants nothing more than seeing ‘the right man’ come into Libby's life because that girl deserves it more than anyone; but then again love itself can sometimes complicate things too much for our liking or expectations… and that happens when her estranged mother and her first love, Jonah, reappear in her life.
Libby and her friends had me rooting for them the whole time because they were such strong characters with depth who were relatable to many different people. It might seem like nothing much happens plot-wise; however, this story is anything but boring thanks to its quick pace paired up with an engaging narrative that is anything but dry.
It was a delightful dual-time story and I enjoyed reading it.
Thank you to Boldwood Books via NetGalley for providing a digital ARC.
July 27, 2024
It’s not much of a secret to followers of my Blog or past reviews that I’ve read a lot of the author’s books ( almost all published till date). This does not mean I’ll rate all the books the same – the opposite in fact. I have a standard with the content I enjoy and this book falls somewhere in the middle of the others I’ve read.
This book is about how the past can impact the present. We have a dual grindstone narrative to reinforce the overlap. Our protagonist has an interesting job feeling people plan births as much as possible. Given that it’s been less than a year since I gave birth myself, a lot of the talk around the event and the emotional reactions of the younger mothers made a lot more sense to me than it would have otherwise.
She is struggling with her personal life because of several reasons and this book will serve as the time for her own coming of age type narrative.
There are always serious plotlines tackled in all her books and this was no exception. The idea of fostering and the weight it carries both to the family doing the carrying and the children in the system is dealt with. My favourite part of the story has to be the unlikely lodger and his teething child. It was the most vivid part of the entire narrative.
I was not a fan of the dual timeline format in this book. This is probably the only reason I’m rating it the way I am. I would still highly recommend this author and the book to readers of this genre.
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience of this and several of the author’s other works.
This book is about how the past can impact the present. We have a dual grindstone narrative to reinforce the overlap. Our protagonist has an interesting job feeling people plan births as much as possible. Given that it’s been less than a year since I gave birth myself, a lot of the talk around the event and the emotional reactions of the younger mothers made a lot more sense to me than it would have otherwise.
She is struggling with her personal life because of several reasons and this book will serve as the time for her own coming of age type narrative.
There are always serious plotlines tackled in all her books and this was no exception. The idea of fostering and the weight it carries both to the family doing the carrying and the children in the system is dealt with. My favourite part of the story has to be the unlikely lodger and his teething child. It was the most vivid part of the entire narrative.
I was not a fan of the dual timeline format in this book. This is probably the only reason I’m rating it the way I am. I would still highly recommend this author and the book to readers of this genre.
I received an ARC thanks to Netgalley and the publishers but the review is entirely based on my own reading experience of this and several of the author’s other works.
May 15, 2024
This is a heartwarming tale that delves into the complexities of family, love, and self-discovery.
From the outset, Moran captures the reader’s attention with the character of Libby, a compassionate and selfless woman who dedicates her life to caring for others. As a single mother, an antenatal coach and co-founder of a charity for teenage mothers, Libby’s days are busy with nurturing those around her, leaving little time for herself. Yet beneath her outward strength lies a vulnerability stemming from past mistakes and unresolved heartache.
The narrative skillfully navigates between past and present, gradually unraveling the events that continue to haunt Libby. She’s forced to face her past and reassess her life when a man from her past arrives, triggering memories from thirteen years ago. Moran deftly explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the healing power of love, as Libby embarks on a journey of self-discovery and learns to confront her insecurities.
The cast of characters adds depth and richness to the story, from Libby’s family and friends to the eclectic mix of women and their partners who bring both chaos and joy to her life.
Moran’s writing, as always, is filled with warmth and compassion, drawing readers into Libby’s world with its vivid descriptions and heartfelt emotions.
It Had to Be You is a story of hope and resilience, reminding readers of the importance of self-love and acceptance and allowing for second chances.
From the outset, Moran captures the reader’s attention with the character of Libby, a compassionate and selfless woman who dedicates her life to caring for others. As a single mother, an antenatal coach and co-founder of a charity for teenage mothers, Libby’s days are busy with nurturing those around her, leaving little time for herself. Yet beneath her outward strength lies a vulnerability stemming from past mistakes and unresolved heartache.
The narrative skillfully navigates between past and present, gradually unraveling the events that continue to haunt Libby. She’s forced to face her past and reassess her life when a man from her past arrives, triggering memories from thirteen years ago. Moran deftly explores themes of forgiveness, redemption, and the healing power of love, as Libby embarks on a journey of self-discovery and learns to confront her insecurities.
The cast of characters adds depth and richness to the story, from Libby’s family and friends to the eclectic mix of women and their partners who bring both chaos and joy to her life.
Moran’s writing, as always, is filled with warmth and compassion, drawing readers into Libby’s world with its vivid descriptions and heartfelt emotions.
It Had to Be You is a story of hope and resilience, reminding readers of the importance of self-love and acceptance and allowing for second chances.
June 27, 2024
A bit of a let down
This is the second book from this author that features a broken family where the wife seems happy to let her cheating husband off without paying adequate child support, leaving her and her children at a financial disadvantage.
Libby’s runs a charity that offers help and support to young mothers, teaching them to care for themselves and their babies, an amazing, worthwhile vocation. However, her own life is chaotic, she never has enough time, her home is a mess and her children are not coping well with the upheaval caused by their father moving on with his new life and wife.
I did not like her mother, who left them unexpectedly years earlier to go travelling and find herself, now she is coming back and seems to expect everyone to welcome her with open arms.
I loved Toby, a young man who took on the responsibility for his baby daughter when her mother deserted her. He was thoughtful, organised, dependable and had the ability to see what needed to be done and did it.
Overall it was ok, but it was neither uplifting nor heartwarming. I felt very tense reading it and the relief when I came to the end of it was quite surprising. I have read all the author’s books and enjoyed them apart from the last two, in which I felt that the women seemed to become doormats for their exes to walk over and were not good role models for their children.
This is the second book from this author that features a broken family where the wife seems happy to let her cheating husband off without paying adequate child support, leaving her and her children at a financial disadvantage.
Libby’s runs a charity that offers help and support to young mothers, teaching them to care for themselves and their babies, an amazing, worthwhile vocation. However, her own life is chaotic, she never has enough time, her home is a mess and her children are not coping well with the upheaval caused by their father moving on with his new life and wife.
I did not like her mother, who left them unexpectedly years earlier to go travelling and find herself, now she is coming back and seems to expect everyone to welcome her with open arms.
I loved Toby, a young man who took on the responsibility for his baby daughter when her mother deserted her. He was thoughtful, organised, dependable and had the ability to see what needed to be done and did it.
Overall it was ok, but it was neither uplifting nor heartwarming. I felt very tense reading it and the relief when I came to the end of it was quite surprising. I have read all the author’s books and enjoyed them apart from the last two, in which I felt that the women seemed to become doormats for their exes to walk over and were not good role models for their children.
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