Book Review: Let Me Be the One (Family Ties Book 1) by Lori Foster

Book cover of Let Me Be the One by Lori Foster – contemporary romance
She's sworn off love. He's all in. New beginnings!
Title: Let Me Be the One by Lori Foster
Series: Family Ties Book 1
Publish Date: April 1,2025
Genre: Contemporary Romance / Small-Town Fiction
Rating: ★★★★★ (5/5)
Format: ARC provided by NetGalley

My Review

Lori Foster’s Let Me Be the One is a heartwarming tale of second chances, personal growth, and the transformative power of love. Set in the quaint town of Hoker, Kentucky, this novel introduces readers to Callie McCallahan, a woman seeking a fresh start after a failed engagement and business venture. Inheriting her uncle’s farm, Callie returns to her roots, aiming to rebuild her life and career.

Tanner Patrick, her neighbor and former high school admirer, has built a quiet life focused on his family’s tree farm. When Callie reenters his life, old feelings resurface, leading to a rekindling of past emotions and the possibility of new beginnings.

When Callie McCallahan takes over her late uncle’s farm, it feels like the perfect escape—a chance to leave behind family expectations, an overbearing ex-fiancé, and the exhausting need to meet everyone else’s standards.

Despite her “princess” upbringing, Callie is anything but pampered. She’s practical, hard-working, and incredibly easy to root for. And Tanner? He captured my heart instantly. Once the scrappy kid from the wrong side of town, he’s grown into a man who’s loyal, grounded, and absolutely swoon-worthy.

Tanner’s family plays a strong supporting role—from the woman who took him in and raised him, to the brother he’s chosen through love, not blood. The family dynamic in this story is rich and emotionally satisfying.

If small-town romance is your thing, this book has everything you crave—nosy but lovable neighbors, heartfelt moments, and that cozy sense of belonging. Callie has her share of struggles—from family guilt and unsettling neighbors, to the chaos of backyard animals. The chemistry between her and Tanner is magnetic with witty banter that brought a constant smile on my face.

Favorite Quotes

“She’s more than the girl next door. She’s the one who got away.”
 
“Could this be the do-over each of them didn’t know they needed?”

Themes and Highlights

Second Chances: Both protagonists confront past regrets and explore the possibility of new beginnings.

Community and Found Family: The novel emphasizes the importance of community support and the families we choose.

Personal Growth: Callie’s journey from city life to embracing rural challenges showcases resilience and adaptability.

Final Thoughts

Let Me Be the One is a delightful read that combines romance, personal growth, and the warmth of small-town life. Foster’s engaging storytelling and well-developed characters make this novel a standout in contemporary romance. Highly recommended for fans of heartfelt love stories and tales of personal transformation.

Join the Conversation

Have you read Let Me Be the OneShare your thoughts in the comments below. Let’s discuss your favorite moments and characters from the book.

Want to know more?
You can find Bad Seed on Goodreads or check out my full review there too:

Love books by Lori Foster?
See more of her books I’ve read and loved — your next favorite might be just a click away.

Shop the Book on Amazon
If you haven’t picked up the book yet, consider purchasing it through the link below. Your support helps keep this blog running and allows me to continue sharing reviews and recommendations with you.

★ Shop the Book on Amazon ★

As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases — including purchases made via OneLink for international readers at no extra cost to you.
🌍 International reader? You’ll automatically be redirected to your local Amazon store when available
.



0 comments