Let It Be Me

by Toni Aleo

[Cocktails and Books]

I was't sure what to expect from this book, considering it was a departure from the hockey romances I love by Toni Aleo. Despite the very tough subject matter surrounding domestic violence, it was a story that I truly enjoyed.

Violet Moore finds herself moved across the country, away from her family and friends, by the abuse husband who likes nothing than blaming Violet for everything that has gone wrong in his life. The only bright spot in her new life is her job as an Office Manager for one incredibly hot, sweet and steadfast Tucker McCloud.

Toni Aleo gets readers to get into the head of a woman who suffers from spousal abuse. If you ever wonder why they stay, Violet gives us a front seat as to why she stayed with a man who made her life absolutely miserable. You feel for Violet and the way she's been secluded by the man who swore to love and honor her. I cringed as much as Violet did every time the man showed up on the page. He was truly, truly vile.

Who changes things for Violet? Tucker McCloud.

Tucker was a fabulous hero. He reminded me of a certain glasses wearing hockey player because he was determined to stand by Violet, no matter what. He was friendly with her, praised her and showed her that she was worthy. His friendship and love was exactly what she needed to find the courage to save herself. And he was willing to give Violet the space she needed to find herself and stand on her own two feet. He was absolutely perfect.

Despite the tough subject matter, the story grabs you and makes it very hard to put down. I loved the path the author took to get Tucker and Violet to their HEA. She didn't make it easy and forced the characters to really take a look at what they were doing before jumping into their forever. If you're looking for something a little different from a favorite author, this is definitely one you should pick up.