Those who have read Stay with Me I (book one in Becky Wade’s Misty River Romance series), met Sebastian Grant. But we were only acquainted with him. In book two of the series, Let It Be Me, we get to know Sebastian—his intelligence, his stubborn determination, his admirable occupation, and all of the hurts he’s carried for years.

A chance meeting brought Leah Montgomery into his life, but when he discovers she is the same woman his best friend has been pursuing (at a turtle’s pace), he steps back. For those of you who are averse to love triangles, just know this one is handled impeccably and does not last long.

Wade writes two cerebral characters so well, even those who don’t have the IQ of Sebastian or Leah will connect with them in some way. Maybe in the witty banter. Or Leah’s solid faith. Or Sebastian’s care with infant heart patients. Maybe the mystery or the faith element. Believe me, there’s something in Let It Be Me that will hook you into this story.

This contemporary romance is a prime example of how heat, sparks, magnetism, and desire can be relayed without any touch (but when that first kiss comes, phew, be sure to pull out your fan because its powerful).

But best of all is the growth of the characters throughout the story because despite their intelligence and drive, they are both humanly flawed. It takes friends, faith, and challenges to grow them beyond the place they arrived on the pages at the beginning of the book. And oh, what a marvelous journey it is to take with them.



Disclosure statement: I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book and was not required to write a positive review. All opinions are my own.

I am a huge Becky Wade fan and when I found out she had a new book coming out I was so excited. I knew that I wanted to be involved in the launch team as soon as I heard about it.

I loved the glimpses of Sebastian that we got in Stay With Me and I was so happy to hear that he was getting his own book. Both Sebastian and Leah are great characters. I love how Becky is able to create interesting and relatable characters that are still unique from other characters.

One of the things I love most about Becky Wade’s writing is how she talks about serious and sometime heavy topics but not in a way that brings you down. There were so many cute, fun moments in this book and they were the perfect balance to the serious moments.

I loved this book and can’t wait for the final book in the series. I’m excited that the others in the Miracle Five will get their stories shared.

Review Snippet:
A SWEET, TENDER ROMANCE

Let It Be Me will absolutely, positively tug on your heartstrings! Becky Wade delivers a multi-layered story of faith, family and romance that is both beautiful and entertaining.

From the direct, matter-of-fact conversation between Sebastian and Leah, to the underlying thread of learning to relinquish our own human-based desire for control to a God who has much bigger plans for our lives, Wade unfolded a story that was very much enjoyed from cover to cover.


Review:
Over the last year or so, I’ve read many wonderful reviews regarding Becky Wade’s contemporary romance novels and was delighted for an opportunity to read her newest release, Let It Be Me.

I found this story to be sweet, tender, rich and simply delightful.

With two dynamic, headstrong characters such as pediatric heart surgeon Sebastian Grant and high school math teacher Leah Montgomery, there were many moments I felt the tangible chemistry between these two. Their magnetic pull to each other is ultimately what enraptured me in this story.

Becky Wade carefully crafts a must-layered story of faith, family and romance that is both beautiful and entertaining. While the story was still rich with struggle and strife, the hope this story delivers is unparalleled.

From the direct, matter-of-fact conversation between Sebastian and Leah, to the underlying thread of learning to relinquish our own human-based desire for control to a God who has much bigger plans for our lives, Wade unfolded a story that was very much enjoyed from cover to cover.

For readers who enjoy somewhat quirky characters, real life situations (ahem, drama!) and contemporary romance, this Christian fiction is for you!

P.S. While I did dearly love Sebastian’s characters, I found a serious soft spot for Ben Coleman! That endearing personality of his! Swoon!

*I voluntarily received a complimentary e-copy of this book from the publisher via NetGalley. All thoughts below are my own and I was not required to post a positive review.

Author Becky Wade hits it out of the park with book two in the Misty River Romance series. I am always amazed at the depth of characterization and the subject matters she talks about in her books. All of this makes for captivating read. This novel focuses on Sebastian Grant (one of the Miracle Five) and how his world starts to change after he meets Leah, math prodigy, and high school teacher. She is an amazingly smart, logical gal who has done remarkable things despite her life situation. He is afraid to get too close to her for those reasons. Leah is afraid of how she feels around him too. It’s new territory for them both.

This was a fascinating story on many levels. I enjoyed every second of my time hanging out with these witty, heart-warming characters. At times I felt like praying for them as they faced really difficult situations. This is a wonderful novel to read for fun and one that would work well for your next book club meeting. The story and characters are compelling. There is so much to discuss.

Disclosure of Material Connection: I have received a complimentary copy of this book by the publisher through NetGalley. I was not required to write a positive review. The opinions I have expressed are my own. I am disclosing this in accordance with the Federal Trade Commission’s 16 CFR, Part 255 “Guides Concerning the Use of Endorsements and Testimonials in Advertising”

Nora St. Laurent
TBCN Where Book Fun Begins!
The Book Club Network blog www.bookfun.org

I can always count on several things when I read a book by Becky Wade:

There will be pitch-perfect banter.
There will be delicious kisses.
There will be fabulous characters (main & supporting).
I will smile a lot. (Chuckles are also not to ruled out)
I will swoon a lot. (Safety precautions like a fainting couch & a couple of fans are recommended.)
I will get hit in all the feels & my heart will be encouraged.

Let It Be Me, the second book in Wade’s Misty River Romance series, checked all those boxes and more! Leah and Sebastian are immediately engaging characters, though we do have a bit of a history with them already from Stay With Me (and therefore are ready to jump into their story before we even start reading this book). While I am not nearly smart enough to keep pace with Leah or Sebastian – these are two prodigies, after all – Wade has written them in such a way that it’s easy to relate to them. Even if I don’t get Leah’s love for math (lol), let’s hear it for STEM heroines! I love seeing a super smart, strong heroine take center stage. (I also love seeing a super smart, wounded hero take center stage but we all knew that already.)

Themes of belonging and family weave seamlessly throughout this novel, adding layers and dimension to the plot and making it a romance that strengthens your heart in more ways than one. I was hooked from the moment Leah got her DNA results, and I stayed completely engrossed in that story line through some stunning twists. I was also eager to learn more about Sebastian and Ben and their friendship – and how it would withstand the fact that they were both unknowingly in love with the same woman. Normally I loathe love triangles because my heart gets so twisted up for the one left behind. But in Let It Be Me, the author does a fabulous job approaching the delicate situation in a way that’s easy on everyone’s hearts, mine included. And I really loved getting to know Ben’s family – what a hoot they are, and full of unconditional love. I can’t wait to spend more time with them when Ben gets his story.

I haven’t even talked about Sebastian’s personal story … or Leah’s brother … or all the geeky Star Wars references. Ack. Just trust me – you need to read it for yourself! And then we can talk about all the things.

Bottom Line: Wade consistently exceeds the already-high expectations I have with each new book of hers that I read. It’s hard to improve on perfection, but she seriously just keeps getting better & better. Let It Be Me is engaging from start to finish, full of forgiveness and grace, fabulous characters and swoonilicious kisses. Entertaining simply at its face value – as a story of two people who fall in love – it also allows the reader to also explore questions of belonging, faith, and the sovereignty of God. A must read for sure!

(I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book)

Let It Be Me by Becky Wade is still sticking to my heart, long after I reached ‘The End.’ This story will charm any tender hearted reader. Especially one who likes to cheer for the underdog.

Math prodigy Leah Montgomery got her degree at just and took over the raising of her younger brother at just eighteen years old. One day she comes across a car wreck, calls the authorities and stays with the driver until they arrive. She has no idea her presence has a greater impact than the accident itself.

Pediatric cardiac surgeon Sebastian Grant shut his own heart down after a series of losses, including his wonderful mother. In his teens he becomes one of the miracle five, trapped in an earthquake and grows close to another survivor, Ben. After wondering about the mystery woman from the crash, he learns she’s Ben’s teaching colleague.

Sebastian’s feelings grow but because Ben is attracted to Leah, Sebastian refuses to pursue her. When he is free to explore their relationship, Sebastian and Leah begin a tentative non-courtship. For someone shutdown and a prodigy who marches to the beat of her own drum, love is never going to be an easy path

If I’m honest, it took a while to fall for Sebastian, but I loved Leah from the outset. Then about a third of the way through, I clicked with the heart surgeon and was fully invested from then onwards.

Let It Be Me made me smile, tear up, sigh and worry until the very satisfying end. Highly recommended for anyone who values a great love story.

Visit Becky Wade’s website here…

To read my review of the free prequel novella in the series, click here…

Let It Be Me, by Becky Wade, is a tale that opens with a bang. Leah Montgomery, a math prodigy who is currently teaching advanced mathematics at her brother's high school, has received surprising news from a genealogy web-site. The man and woman, who raised her, are not actually her birth parents!

This knowledge seems to open up a lot of unknowns for Leah. Along this journey of trying to discover information about her actual parents, Leah crosses paths with Sebastian Grant, a pediatric heart surgeon. At first, Leah does not remember that she had meet this man previously. She had come upon an accident outside her hometown and this was that man inside a crumbled up vehicle!

This is an interesting tale as you watch Sebastian assist Leah in her search for her parents. As with all of Becky Wade's stories, there will be surprises along the way!

You definitely do not want to miss this tale!

I received an e-copy of this book from Bethany House. Opinions expressed in this review are completely my own.

I’m going to go out on a limb and guess that if you are looking in the book reviews section, it’s because you’ve never read a book written by Becky Wade. She only writes one a year, and I am always anxiously awaiting getting my hands on her next one. Let It Be Me is such an incredibly good and unique book. I mean who writes books about math genius’ and heart surgeons?

This book is the second novel in the Misty River Romance Series and I couldn’t get enough! Sebastian is swoon-worthy in so many ways… hello pediatric heart surgeon! I fell in love with his intensity. I could not imagine having all his attention focused on me and not falling into a puddle on the floor. Leah is his perfect match. Not a woman prone to swooning, her primary focus is on raising her younger brother. How can you not admire a woman who puts her hopes and dreams aside for that? Luckily for them both their primary focus was on something other than romance, otherwise who knows how they would have settled.

The chemistry that Wade put on the page was breathtaking. The way she described everything made me feel as if I was right there with them and I couldn’t stop reading. I was blessed to read the first book in this series, and totally suggest that you do, because hello… Becky Wade! That being said you can totally read this as a stand alone novel. I would recommend this book to anyone who enjoys Contemporary Romance. I received a complimentary copy of this book from Bethany House Publishers and was in no way forced to post a positive review. All opinions expressed are my own.

Let It Be Me is going straight to my favorites list! This contemporary romance has everything I love about the genre, as well as the powerful storytelling of Becky Wade to recommend it!

Becky Wade’s characters are portrayed in a way that makes them deeply relatable. Their identities are fleshed out through personality, sense of humor, career, dreams, memories, and even a physical sense of how they move through a room to make them feel so REAL and realistic. The reader learns their POV and perspective when all this combines to see life, faith, decisions, and emotions through their individuality. This stirs empathy even when the reader experiences life in a completely different way.

Sebastian and Leah’s dynamic is simply magnetic. Any time they are on the page together, their sparks and passion are palpable, even in a scene as innocuous as a conversation at a school fundraiser booth, it’s present (their banter! it sparkles!). While his attraction to her is instant, he recognizes and falls for her intelligence and compassion quickly. I love romance when the hero falls first and it takes a bit for the heroine to catch up. Challenges to their situation, though, allow for the story to develop at the perfect pace and for the reader to be rooting for them 1,000% by the time things turn more serious.

I have a few more things to say about the romance. No spoilers here, but they have plenty to work through with the Sebastian, Leah, and Ben situation. (note of relief: it is NOT a love triangle). But whew, when things do start happening of a more romantic nature, Sebastian’s determination and Leah’s I-don’t-do-romance mantra practically combust. I will just reiterate what I said about book 1 in this series: it’s a “prime example of how the inspirational romance genre CAN have heat and convey a real, respectful sense of desire without crossing any inappropriate lines.”

Both Sebastian and Leah have personal arcs outside of their changing romantic relationship that center on identity. For Leah, she grapples with surprises related to her heritage. And, she is fiercely independent. Sebastian upends her stability, which causes some friction and challenges her mindset in more than one way. For Sebastian, he carries baggage from living his own heartbreaking past. His arc, too, has to do with his determination, need of acceptance, and perfectionist tendencies. Her presence just might break through his barriers and cause him to reconsider his fears and emotional detachment, seeing all areas of his life with more of his heart. Sebastian’s relationship with the Colemans is an important part of his life, too. I really like his relationship with Ben Coleman and how it exemplifies true friendship in wanting the very best for one another.

From friendships to identity, forgiveness and honesty, many aspects combine to make this much more than a romance. It’s a meaningful story of growth for the hero and heroine. I can’t wait to get Luke’s story next year 🙂

Thank you to Bethany House Publishers for the review copy. This is my honest review.

When I pick up a Becky Wade book, I know I’m in for a great read. Let It Be Me carries on her fantastic book tradition with realistic, engaging, and multi-layered characters and a compelling storyline. With witty dialogue, an intriguing mystery, and plenty of romance, Leah and Sebastian’s story kept me turning pages to the end. A solid faith element permeates the tale with messages of forgiveness, grace, and God’s love for each of us. I’m looking forward to more books in this series.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy from the publisher via NetGalley. All opinions are my own.

Becky Wade's name always appears whenever there's a request for a recommendation for a good Christian romance writer, so I thought I'd have a look.

Though the storylines are great, I have to admit to being somewhat disappointed. Perhaps it is the style of writing or the dialogue that I do not prefer.

Anyhow, many people seem to enjoy this author's books. I may try again in the future.

What a beautifully crafted story! There is much to love about this book. Becky has woven quite a story within the pages of Let It Be Me. From the banter between Sebastian and Leah(one of my favorite elements of the story!) to wonderful lead characters and fun supporting characters and a storyline I had trouble putting down for pesky things like my kids and sleep, this book has it all. The storyline pulls in the reader from literally the first line and it doesn't let go until the last page. I am literally still processing the surprising twists of the story and how it's resolved. Wow, this is a compelling read! Don't miss it!!

I received this book as a member of the launch team and was not required to post a positive review. All thoughts are my honest opinion.

I love how well this author tackles tough issues in a way that I can feel and relate even though I might not have personally gone through the same things the characters are going through. This story filled me with all the feelings I long for as a reader. I was attached to these characters and I was invested in their story and most especially, in their success. There were some twists I didn't see coming and I love to be surprised in good ways. This book was so well written and I loved it from beginning to end. Loved it.

Content: Christian elements, kissing

- I received a complimentary copy of this book. All opinions expressed are my own.

Let It Be Me by Becky Wade is the second full-length novel in the Misty River Romance series. It follows the story of Sebastian Grant, one of the Miracle Five we met in the first novel, a pediatric cardiac surgeon in search of the woman who stole his heart when she came to his rescue after a car crash. And Leah, a math prodigy, is investigating some surprising results of a recent DNA test. When Sebastian finds Leah, he also discovers she is the woman his best friend has been crushing on for over a year. But when Leah seeks out his assistance to help her discover the truth about her DNA test, will he be able to deny the feelings he has for her?
Let It Be Me was a fantastic story. The characters were exquisite--and not just the swoon-worthy hero--all of them. I was completely engaged in Leah’s search for the truth, in Sebastian’s struggle to mend his own heart, in Ben’s unconditional love, and even in Dylan’s teenagerly grunts. These characters and their witty, hilarious, and heartfelt interactions are priceless. They will stay with you long after you’ve turned the last page.
Sebastian! What a hero. A pediatric cardiac surgery rockstar. He saves tiny people. He’s a bad boy. He has a big heart. He doesn’t let anyone see it. He is so complicated! And that’s why I loved him. I don’t know how many times he made me throw my head back and laugh, but was also capable of bringing tears to my eyes. As Leah said, he’s a bit of a scoundrel, but that is half of his appeal!
I loved, loved, LOVED Leah. So smart. So loyal. So pragmatic and logical. I fell in love with all of her quirks and complete nerdiness. She is a true inspiration in how she sacrificed her own desires for others, how she treated others with love, and how she sought to have a closer relationship with God. Characters like Leah are why I read Christian fiction. Their lives make me think about my own!
And I CANNOT close this without saying how much I love Ben’s mother, Cece. I love her spunk and her sparkle, but my, oh, my, the woman lives for the Lord and loves like Him, too. I wish all foster children like Sebastian had someone like her in their lives.
Overall, Let It Be Me is a fantastic read and a great second novel in the series. It will be impossible to pick a favorite, I’m afraid! Any fan of contemporary Christian fiction, like Courtney Walsh, would enjoy this book!
I was given a copy of this book by the publisher with no expectations of a positive review. All opinions are my own.

This book reminded me of how much I adore Ms Wade’s writing. She manages to craft a compelling story with twists i cannot foresee and she introduces us to new friends who make you love them. (And I always end up crying!) Thank you for being the excellence in Christian fiction that we need.

This was a super fun book for me to read because my daughter is dating a guy named Sebastian and her middle name is Leigh which is close to Leah making me think about them as I read the story.

I have yet to meet a Becky Wade book I didn’t just love! Her characters are real with flaws and fears just like all of us and the moment you meet them you realize they could be one of your best friends.

In this book Becky touches on a “forbidden” subject within evangelical Christians...forgiving God...and she handles it beautifully and with so much grace. Showing how our feelings are just that and they don’t emulate the truth.

Disclaimer: I received a copy of this book from the publisher. I was not required to write a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

Let It Be Me is the kind of book that once finished, I immediately wanted to read again. It’s the story of Sebastian, a brilliant young heart surgeon, and Leah, a math prodigy who teaches high school while raising her younger brother. Leah has no time for romance and carefully avoids it. Sebastian is drawn to Leah but has trust issues himself. They can’t deny their feelings, but can they make it work? Becky Wade writes such believable and relatable characters. There is lively banter, family drama, and undeniable truths about God that all combine to make a very compelling read.

Thank you to NetGalley, the publisher, Bethany House and the author for the complimentary copy of this book. A positive review was not required and all opinions are my own.

“The thing is,” she whispered, “I don’t need a man in my life. I have math.”

“Let It Be Me” grabbed my heart from the start and still hasn’t let go! The reality, friendship and sweetness of Leah, Ben, and Sebastian’s story simply stole my breath away. Leah and Sebastian don’t think they need a long-term relationship, until they meet one another. However, Sebastion would never get in the way of his best friend, Ben’s happiness. The sparks fly and the chemistry is tangible at times as everything changes, and yet they have so much to overcome. I love the cerebral thinking they relate to that is challenged by their developing emotions. Leah was a wonderful heroine and strong role model.

“He was a heart surgeon who did not understand the inner workings of his own heart.”

Sebastian was the perfect hunky doctor with layers he has to work through to be in a relationship. Both of their hearts for kids was enviable. All of the “Star Wars” references added fun to the story as well.

“It really was exceptional, the combustion that thickened the air when they were together. Like “the force” in Star Wars—invisible and powerful.”

Wade wrote a book with so many depths and layers that my emotions were all over the place. She stresses the importance and beauty of being real in relationships. I am really loving this series and cannot wait for the next book to come out. What a beautiful and unexpected ending to this story. Oh, and I absolutely loved the beautiful updates from prior books in the series. Truly swoon worthy reading!

“When you met a man you couldn’t help but love . . . it changed everything.”

I was given a copy of this book through NetGalley and by the publisher. All opinions are my own and are given honestly.

Let It Be Me by Becky Wade

Rating: 5 out of 5 stars
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Story Notes

Becky Wade returns us to the lives of the Miracle Five and the delightful town of Misty River to tell the story of Dr Sebastian Grant and his journey to love.

When I read the little teaser intro to Sebastian's story that was dropped into Stay with Me, I just knew it was going to be an awesome story. The great Sebastian Grant was going to be felled by the most unexpected person and he doesn't even know her name. She was the kind person who stopped to help when he wrapped his car around a tree and he is convinced that if he can find her, she will be his perfect girlfriend. But when he finally does find her, again on accident, he discovers that she is the girl his best friend, Ben, has been crushing on and is too afraid to ask out. Despite his incredible disappointment, Sebastian becomes his friend's biggest cheerleader and tries to work things out for Ben and Leah. If only he hadn't already lost most of his heart to her before he even knew her name. Leah Montgomery is a math genius who teaches at Misty River high school. She is the guardian of her younger brother, Dylan, and is doing her best to ensure he is healthy and well prepared for life. While she had to sacrifice her dreams of a PhD in Mathematics to care for her brother, she has never regretted it. She calls it dreams deferred and intends to return to them one day in the future. But her life is unceremoniously turned upside down when she gets unexpected results from her birthday DNA test - she is not her mother's daughter. Not quite believing what she's read, she requests a second test to confirm and upon receiving the same results, must now decide how to go forward. Leah is not a vengeful person but she does want to know what happened and how she was switched with another child in the hospital. Her search brings her into the world of Pediatrics, and Sebastian, when she needs his help to gain access to her records. Their search will bring many surprises and more answers than Leah ever dreamed. But there is heartache to be found along the way as well and it will prove challenging to their relationship. Can they really have anything more than friendship together or will everything and everyone pull them further apart? You'll have to come read this marvelous story to find out. I'm not going to spoil the story for anyone but I'm definitely telling people they need to read it. From the super fun Star Wars quotes and references to the hilariously odd reasoning of Leah, it's not one that readers will want to miss. I loved how stubbornly set Leah was about love and how it applied to her; she made me laugh with her conclusions and reasoning. Sebastian was a wonderful MC with plenty of charm, wit and determination to help Leah see her worth to others. The search to discover what happened at Leah's birth was very well written with everything being revealed at just the right moment. Ms. Wade has an incredible ability to write realistic stories that gut-punch you with their revelations but in a way that is a good shock rather than a bad one. This story included that expected shock but it gave such depth to the story that I would have felt the story incomplete without it. Suffice to say, this story was delightfully heart wrenching and I really was a bit worried for what the ending would be. Which is a perfect place for a voracious reader such as myself to be - it keeps us on our toes. I will certainly be highly recommending this story to others and am very hopeful they will find it as marvelous as I did. I'm now super excited to read the next story and find out what's going to happen with Luke. Well done, Ms. Wade!!

I received this temporary complimentary E-book from Bethany House Publishers via NetGalley in order to provide a fair and honest review. I will receive no fiscal compensation for this review and the opinions expressed herein are entirely my own.

I haven't read any of the other books in the series, however, it didn't keep me from getting all the feels. What an amazing story!