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lifeinthebooklane's review
3.0
Release is a well written, captivating read that will pull on your heartstrings and leave you chock full of emotion. It has two rounded main characters, each with a complex past and plenty of side characters to add depth to the story. The plot leaves you wondering where the story is heading and I loved how Harry and Lilly met and their first few meetings.
Lilly is such a wonderfully complex, emotional and damaged character. Even when I didn't care for her actions (and she could be quite annoying) I still forgave and liked her, and was so desperate for her to find healing with Harry. He carries a huge weight of expectations and responsibility on his shoulders but despite this he was a pretty decent guy.
I liked Lilly and Harry as a couple, they certainly had chemistry. The book did feel a little slow to get going at first, I'm not sure if this was more where my head is at than the book as I was bouncing between 3 books and not really settling to read any of them. However whilst this never felt like a book I didn't want to finish, it didn't drag me in either.
Lilly is such a wonderfully complex, emotional and damaged character. Even when I didn't care for her actions (and she could be quite annoying) I still forgave and liked her, and was so desperate for her to find healing with Harry. He carries a huge weight of expectations and responsibility on his shoulders but despite this he was a pretty decent guy.
I liked Lilly and Harry as a couple, they certainly had chemistry. The book did feel a little slow to get going at first, I'm not sure if this was more where my head is at than the book as I was bouncing between 3 books and not really settling to read any of them. However whilst this never felt like a book I didn't want to finish, it didn't drag me in either.
kellyyoungbl's review
3.0
Good story, terrible characters
I really liked this story, but the characters were awful and kept me from really enjoying it. They were both very selfish, stubborn, and angry. They were incredibly unlikable with no redeeming qualities.
I really liked this story, but the characters were awful and kept me from really enjoying it. They were both very selfish, stubborn, and angry. They were incredibly unlikable with no redeeming qualities.
bibliophile90's review
5.0
**ARC provided in exchange for an honest review**
4.5 stars
"I want to know what put that sadness there. I want to tell her the source of my own pain."
Release is the third and final book in the Symbols of Love series by the awesome Dylan Allen. I have read every book this author has released and been a fan from the start. I had been looking forward to Lilly and Harry's story, after being introduced to them in the previous books. First I want to mention that the prologue was very intense and raw, and the author did an incredible job in giving the reader a very realistic view of the situation. It had me feeling so many emotions and I felt like I was present in that scene. It definitely wasn't easy to read but it gave me a very clear view into Lilly's personality.
"I will never experience anything as magnificent as the way he has adored me. It's like the sun shining on the darkest parts of my insides, disinfecting and cleansing. But, there are some stains that nothing can remove. And the one on my soul is one of those."
Harry was very honest and said what was on his mind. I loved that a lot about him, and his personality resulted in Lilly coming out of her shell. She brought down her defensive walls and let Harry get to know her a bit, even though what they had was just a holiday fling (or so they thought). Harry was more open then Lilly, but seeing what she gone through in the past it was very understandable. There was a lot going on in this book, and I didn't completely agree with the way both of them handles certain situations. But on the other side this did result in them growing as individuals and getting their life back on track.
"When you kiss me, it's like a shot of sunshine. Straight to my center."
There were also a couple of twists which added another layer to the story, which I liked. I loved that all the previous characters made appearances in this book, and I enjoyed seeing what they were up to. The setting of the story was great. The first part was mainly set in Ghana and the second in the United Kingdom. The author did a phenomenal job in telling Lilly and Harry's story and gave them a well-deserved HEA. I had a hard time keeping my tears contained a couple of times, so I just let them flow. I am sad this series is done, but Release was definitely a great way to end it. However, I want Harry's twin Freya to get her own story. Release can be read as a stand-alone, but I think you would enjoy it more if you read the previous books. I can't wait to see what Dylan has in story for us next.
4.5 stars
"I want to know what put that sadness there. I want to tell her the source of my own pain."
Release is the third and final book in the Symbols of Love series by the awesome Dylan Allen. I have read every book this author has released and been a fan from the start. I had been looking forward to Lilly and Harry's story, after being introduced to them in the previous books. First I want to mention that the prologue was very intense and raw, and the author did an incredible job in giving the reader a very realistic view of the situation. It had me feeling so many emotions and I felt like I was present in that scene. It definitely wasn't easy to read but it gave me a very clear view into Lilly's personality.
"I will never experience anything as magnificent as the way he has adored me. It's like the sun shining on the darkest parts of my insides, disinfecting and cleansing. But, there are some stains that nothing can remove. And the one on my soul is one of those."
Harry was very honest and said what was on his mind. I loved that a lot about him, and his personality resulted in Lilly coming out of her shell. She brought down her defensive walls and let Harry get to know her a bit, even though what they had was just a holiday fling (or so they thought). Harry was more open then Lilly, but seeing what she gone through in the past it was very understandable. There was a lot going on in this book, and I didn't completely agree with the way both of them handles certain situations. But on the other side this did result in them growing as individuals and getting their life back on track.
"When you kiss me, it's like a shot of sunshine. Straight to my center."
There were also a couple of twists which added another layer to the story, which I liked. I loved that all the previous characters made appearances in this book, and I enjoyed seeing what they were up to. The setting of the story was great. The first part was mainly set in Ghana and the second in the United Kingdom. The author did a phenomenal job in telling Lilly and Harry's story and gave them a well-deserved HEA. I had a hard time keeping my tears contained a couple of times, so I just let them flow. I am sad this series is done, but Release was definitely a great way to end it. However, I want Harry's twin Freya to get her own story. Release can be read as a stand-alone, but I think you would enjoy it more if you read the previous books. I can't wait to see what Dylan has in story for us next.
shellysbookcorner's review
3.0
I had no idea that this book would be so intense!! The first few pages had my heart in my throat. I honestly wasn’t sure if I was going to be able to continue with this book due to the subject matter but I needed to see what was going to happen. My heart broke for Lilly in this story which is why I gave her a slight break for her actions. Harry. What can I say about Harry? I loved him so much! Harry has a rough past as well and because of it he is brutally honest no matter the cost. I loved that realness when it came to Harry, he kept it real with everyone whether they wanted to hear it or not. I have to say as much as I wanted to I had a hard time feeling the connection between Lilly and Harry. Maybe it's because I couldn't connect to Lilly? Don’t get me wrong my heart went out for her but for some reason I just couldn't connect to her character.
This is the second book by Dylan Allen that I have read and it was an emotional read and dealt with a heavy subject matter and the aftermath. This book was well written about healing and moving on but at times I felt it was a little slow but the last few chapters sucked me in and I couldn’t put the book down. Even though it was a favorite of mine don’t let my review stop you from reading!
3.5 Stars
“Received an ARC for which I voluntarily provided an honest review."
For more reviews check me out at: http://www.shellysbookcorner.com
This is the second book by Dylan Allen that I have read and it was an emotional read and dealt with a heavy subject matter and the aftermath. This book was well written about healing and moving on but at times I felt it was a little slow but the last few chapters sucked me in and I couldn’t put the book down. Even though it was a favorite of mine don’t let my review stop you from reading!
3.5 Stars
“Received an ARC for which I voluntarily provided an honest review."
For more reviews check me out at: http://www.shellysbookcorner.com
sexyvixenreader's review
5.0
What can I say but Dylan has again stripped me bare and raked my emotions raw. This amazing story is not to be missed, its pain, love, and heartbreak. Harry and Lilly is epic love done brilliantly.
halston's review
4.0
Lilly finding herself and finding love was all heart. She meets Harry and the sparks that fly between these two. Allen will make you cry, laugh and just want to hug all the characters. Those naughty scenes... wowza!!
nessreads11's review
5.0
*ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review*
5 "Mind Blown" Stars!!!!!
I took my time. Once I start a book, I usually finish it in a day or two. But this time, I took my time. Don't get me wrong, I wanted more than anything to devour this book in one sitting. But I just knew that this book meant to be savored. From the very first page I knew in my heart that this story was going to make me feel and break me. I knew that Dylan was going to take me on one of those rides that I wouldn't want to get off of. And more than anything, with this book and its story and the characters, I learned. Dylan taught me things, so many things I didn't know. And for that I am extremely grateful. Release is one of those books that'll stay with me forever. Its story is one that I won't soon forget. And Lilly and Harry, oh my word they made my heart beat ferociously. These two will ravish you in the best possible way.
Lilly will capture your heart. Her journey of triumph is one of strength. Lilly's growth throughout the book took time, but when she got to that point, it was so beautiful. The vulnerability she showed was a testament of her courage.
Harry, my gosh Harry was a treasure. Patient, he was so patient. He wanted more than anything to be there for Lilly. To help her in any way he could. He showed Lilly the importance of honestly. That no matter what she could always count on him.
Lilly and Harry's story is not light and fluffy. It's gritty and heartbreaking and raw, but most of all its real. And it will make you want to rip your hair out. It's filled to the brim with so much emotion and it'll make you feel everything. You'll be rooting so hard for Lilly and Harry to make it because their love story is one that should thrive and survive.
"This is what happens when souls that are meant for each other collide. They create something new. Something that no one has ever had before. It’s unpredictable, with a will of its own. It refuses to be mastered or tamed."
5 "Mind Blown" Stars!!!!!
I took my time. Once I start a book, I usually finish it in a day or two. But this time, I took my time. Don't get me wrong, I wanted more than anything to devour this book in one sitting. But I just knew that this book meant to be savored. From the very first page I knew in my heart that this story was going to make me feel and break me. I knew that Dylan was going to take me on one of those rides that I wouldn't want to get off of. And more than anything, with this book and its story and the characters, I learned. Dylan taught me things, so many things I didn't know. And for that I am extremely grateful. Release is one of those books that'll stay with me forever. Its story is one that I won't soon forget. And Lilly and Harry, oh my word they made my heart beat ferociously. These two will ravish you in the best possible way.
Lilly will capture your heart. Her journey of triumph is one of strength. Lilly's growth throughout the book took time, but when she got to that point, it was so beautiful. The vulnerability she showed was a testament of her courage.
Harry, my gosh Harry was a treasure. Patient, he was so patient. He wanted more than anything to be there for Lilly. To help her in any way he could. He showed Lilly the importance of honestly. That no matter what she could always count on him.
Lilly and Harry's story is not light and fluffy. It's gritty and heartbreaking and raw, but most of all its real. And it will make you want to rip your hair out. It's filled to the brim with so much emotion and it'll make you feel everything. You'll be rooting so hard for Lilly and Harry to make it because their love story is one that should thrive and survive.
"This is what happens when souls that are meant for each other collide. They create something new. Something that no one has ever had before. It’s unpredictable, with a will of its own. It refuses to be mastered or tamed."
raciethereader's review
5.0
This is the 3rd book in Dylan Allen’s Symbols of Love series and this is Lilly’s book, the middle sister. It can be read as a standalone. It is Dylan’s 4th book (plus a novella) and her writing continues to be beautiful. This book has character growth in spades, by the bucket loads. I adore character growth. Lilly and Harry have a rocky start. There is instant lust, followed by disgust and fascination. It is quite a journey. When they get together, it is beautiful and so heart healing. I won’t give any spoilers and won’t share too much but I thoroughly enjoyed the journey. Lilly has a heartbreaking story that needs to be experienced and I loved Harry despite his stance on cheese.
prettymessreading's review
5.0
*****4.5 STARS*****
Three sisters. Three stories. Three broken hearts. That’s what Symbols of Love is all about. Release gives us Lilly’s story.
I have been interested in Lilly’s story from the moment I read about her in Rise. There was something mysterious about her that had me intrigued. Let me tell y’all – Lilly’s story is heart-breaking and gut-wrenching. I cried! I’m not a crier but I had tears flowing down my cheeks during this story.
That prologue. . .oh my sweet soul. I almost died. I wasn’t ready! I wasn’t ready! Dylan Allen had me hooked from the first paragraph. You have to read it to know what I mean. It was so damn emotional.
Lilly is beautiful, raw, complex, and broken. She is everything that a woman is. We’re all a little broken if you really think about it.
Harry is handsome, caring, thoughtful, and genuine. He is everything that a woman wants in her man.
Lilly is hurting on the inside something terrible and Harry has no idea how much yet sees all the good in her that she tries to hide.
As fate continues to bring these two together, Lilly’s heart just doesn’t know what to do. Fate was also the thing that risks taking them apart.
The type of relationship they form is not an easy one. Their pasts make them a unique pair, there are so many layers to them both.
What do you do when you want to get to know someone and they don’t have the capacity to give their heart to you? – You find a way to convince them that they are worth it. You find a way to let that person know that you are there, standing and waiting. At least that’s what we hope, right?
What drew me into the story more than anything else was how broken and kind of bitchy Lilly was. Like I said, we are all a little bit broken and I can be a bitch – a sweet one, but still a bitch. I guess that’s why I wanted more than anything for her to find some peace in this crazy, fucked up world. The same world that killed so much of who was in the past.
Dylan Allen writes Release with so much passion and grace. The words bleed off of the pages, right into the readers heart.
I really hope that you will give this story a try. Release is about family, love, heartbreak and how to find yourself again after everything is taken away from you.
Do I recommend this book? Yes, I truly do.
Will I read more books by Dylan Allen? Yep! If she writes it - I will read it.
Remember to follow all things messy. . .
Three sisters. Three stories. Three broken hearts. That’s what Symbols of Love is all about. Release gives us Lilly’s story.
I have been interested in Lilly’s story from the moment I read about her in Rise. There was something mysterious about her that had me intrigued. Let me tell y’all – Lilly’s story is heart-breaking and gut-wrenching. I cried! I’m not a crier but I had tears flowing down my cheeks during this story.
That prologue. . .oh my sweet soul. I almost died. I wasn’t ready! I wasn’t ready! Dylan Allen had me hooked from the first paragraph. You have to read it to know what I mean. It was so damn emotional.
Lilly is beautiful, raw, complex, and broken. She is everything that a woman is. We’re all a little broken if you really think about it.
Harry is handsome, caring, thoughtful, and genuine. He is everything that a woman wants in her man.
Lilly is hurting on the inside something terrible and Harry has no idea how much yet sees all the good in her that she tries to hide.
“You make me feel. . .perfect,” I say to him on a sigh of pure bliss.
“To me, you are,” he whispers in my ear. – Lilly/Harry
As fate continues to bring these two together, Lilly’s heart just doesn’t know what to do. Fate was also the thing that risks taking them apart.
The type of relationship they form is not an easy one. Their pasts make them a unique pair, there are so many layers to them both.
What do you do when you want to get to know someone and they don’t have the capacity to give their heart to you? – You find a way to convince them that they are worth it. You find a way to let that person know that you are there, standing and waiting. At least that’s what we hope, right?
“Let me prove I can take care of your heart. Even better than I take care of your body” – Harry
What drew me into the story more than anything else was how broken and kind of bitchy Lilly was. Like I said, we are all a little bit broken and I can be a bitch – a sweet one, but still a bitch. I guess that’s why I wanted more than anything for her to find some peace in this crazy, fucked up world. The same world that killed so much of who was in the past.
Dylan Allen writes Release with so much passion and grace. The words bleed off of the pages, right into the readers heart.
I really hope that you will give this story a try. Release is about family, love, heartbreak and how to find yourself again after everything is taken away from you.
Do I recommend this book? Yes, I truly do.
Will I read more books by Dylan Allen? Yep! If she writes it - I will read it.
Remember to follow all things messy. . .
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becsa's review
5.0
This was a beautiful book with so many layers of pain and hidden demons for both Lilly and Harry that they had to overcome to figure out their respective futures.
Lilly was such an incredibly broken character that was running from the past and keeping everyone at an arms length as she was the “glue” for her family. Yet as she held everything together nobody ever asked her about how she was doing and therefore she kept all of her secrets deep within her. There was something about how Harry treated her that allowed her to release a little of her pain in Ghana but there was still so much more.
Harry was a great character who had his own relationship ghosts when his fiancé died while on a romantic holiday with his best friend. He cared about Lilly a lot and was super upset that she was gone so quickly.
There was so much that was unsaid when Lilly is faced with Harry again but he was still able to get through to her in a way that no one else was able to and allow her a chance to deal with everything. Some of the twists and turns were shocking and I was so mad at Harry’s sister Freya for some of the things that she pulled.
This book was beautiful and about healing and it definitely had me worried at certain times!
Lilly was such an incredibly broken character that was running from the past and keeping everyone at an arms length as she was the “glue” for her family. Yet as she held everything together nobody ever asked her about how she was doing and therefore she kept all of her secrets deep within her. There was something about how Harry treated her that allowed her to release a little of her pain in Ghana but there was still so much more.
Harry was a great character who had his own relationship ghosts when his fiancé died while on a romantic holiday with his best friend. He cared about Lilly a lot and was super upset that she was gone so quickly.
There was so much that was unsaid when Lilly is faced with Harry again but he was still able to get through to her in a way that no one else was able to and allow her a chance to deal with everything. Some of the twists and turns were shocking and I was so mad at Harry’s sister Freya for some of the things that she pulled.
This book was beautiful and about healing and it definitely had me worried at certain times!