Only Love

4.5 stars I have been waiting for Stella's story since meeting her in Only You and I was not disappointed! This story had so much heart and emotion. Though this is book 3 in the One and Only series, it can be read as a stand alone. Ryan and Stella were broken and in so much pain when they first met. I loved seeing these two slowly come together and heal the other. Yes, there are some missteps and a good amount of push and pull, but you can just feel the connection between them from the start. Once Ryan's emotional baggage is revealed, it's easier to understand why he reacted and responded the way that he did. The best thing about Ryan and Stella was that they each accepted and loved the other exactly as they were. They knew there would be hard times, but they allowed the other to be exactly who they were without judgment or criticism. The epilogue was the perfect way to bring everything full circle and I couldn't have been happier as this series draws to a close. Grams was such a fun addition to the story and was the perfect balance to the heavier moments in the story. All of her meddling brought a smile to my face and I'm pretty sure I need Gram's recipes for apple pie and meatloaf! ;) Catching up with Emme and Maren was awesome as well, and though this book didn't have as much sisterly banter, I loved seeing how their happily ever afters have progressed. Mack definitely caught my attention in the story and I was so happy to see that it will be his story next to start off Melanie's new series! *I voluntarily read an advance reader copy of this book*

I absolutely loved this story! It was funny, sexy, heartbreaking and heartwarming. We met Stella in the first book, where she was defending her safe, and sexless relationship with Buzz (Walter). I knew Stella's story would be awesome and it definitely did not disappoint! Stella was reeling after Walter broke up with her on her birthday. When her Grandmother convinces Stella that she is sick and needs her help, Stella races to be with her. Little did she know that her Gram's had plans for her and the sexy, ex-marine living next door. Ryan is a tortured, wounded warrior who has closed himself off after his tragic tour in Afghanistan. Stella has played it safe her whole life, afraid to break the rules. They both are so much alike, and they are exactly what they both need, to help each other heal. Add in a 90 year old granny, who doesn't have time waste, who is shamelessly meddling in their lives, they never stood a chance! There were so many hilarious moments that made me laugh out loud. The poignant moments were so heartfelt and authentic and added a depth that kept me turning the pages. I was so moved by the way Harlow addressed the heartbreaking struggles of veterans with empathy and honesty. She expertly weaves a story that makes you feel so many emotions and makes you beg for more. This story is the perfect blend of humor, heartbreak, charm, and steam. It had me laughing and crying and everything in between. This beautiful story is the perfect conclusion to the One and Only series and is a must read!

4.5 stars!! Oh, how I adored this book. Melanie Harlow wrote a super sweet, heartfelt, emotional romance that made me feel all the warm and fuzzy moments and gave me a few laughs along the way. Only Love had outstanding character chemistry, fiery passion and an outrageous meddling grandmother I couldn't help but love. I'm chuckling and shaking my head just thinking about her antics. Ryan and Stella had a wonderful connection. Both with their own hang ups about relationships and love. Still, it could not be denied that what they had was something beautiful. I've been waiting for Stella's story after loving the previous stories featuring her sisters. I was pleased with how it turned out. I loved Stella. She was always the practical, straight laced Devine sister. She took emotion, love and sex out relationships. Staying in a boring relationship because it looked good on paper and was uncomplicated. When her boyfriend dumps her she's forced to really take in account what she wants out of life. I really liked seeing her break out of her shell and go after her desires. Especially when it comes to Ryan. Ryan has some emotional scarring stemming from his years as a Marine and adjusting to life outside the military. He was situated to living a life of solitude. Until his nosey, meddling neighbor and her gorgeous granddaughter entered his life. He opens up to Stella but quickly closes himself right up. There is a constant push and pull between these characters. Making me crave more and more. I really liked this book. Was it my favorite in the One and Only series? No, but it still held it's own with the others. It gave me the feels and made me smile. I highly recommend picking this book up. It can be read as a standalone.