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TheLisaD
October 31, 2024
Another great story from Shannon!
Whenever Shannon releases a new book, it’s a cause for excitement, as she consistently brings her characters to life in such a vivid way. To Be Loved is no exception. From the very beginning, the chemistry between the characters is palpable. Shannon masterfully conveys that instant, intangible connection, and her skillful writing ensures the reader feels it right along with them.
Our main character, Norah, carries a profound backstory—she’s been through a lot before this story even begins. Shannon handles Norah’s history with sensitivity, honoring her experiences without allowing the plot to become solely about loss and moving forward. Instead, the story focuses on two people who share a powerful connection and the journey they embark on to explore where it might lead.
Adding to the depth of the narrative is Gemma, whose presence brings a sense of calm to Norah amidst her emotional struggles. Gemma truly lives up to her name, becoming Norah’s anchor in a storm of emotions, and their bond adds another layer of warmth to the story.
One of the joys of Shannon’s series is that they often feature characters previously mentioned in passing, allowing readers to delve into new perspectives while exploring a familiar world. Though I hadn’t read the other books in the series, I found To Be Loved fully enjoyable as a standalone story—a testament to Shannon’s talent for creating an immersive, self-contained narrative. Well done, Shannon!