Book Review: Someone to Have (Skylark #3) by Michelle Major
There’s something magnetic about diving into a new book by Michelle Major. Her combination of relatable characters and engaging storylines has a way of wrapping around me like a warm blanket. As a longtime fan, I was thrilled to dig into Someone to Have, the third installment in the Skylark series. The allure of a charming, sweet, and undeniably hot brother’s best friend romance was enough to entice my curiosity, and Major did not disappoint!
The story revolves around Taylor, a quiet librarian who often finds herself lost in the shadow of her overachieving, athletic family. Watching her grapple with her self-confidence and aspirations—like checking performing on stage off her bucket list—was both heartwarming and relatable. Taylor’s journey really resonated with me, especially as she navigated the pressures of wanting to be noticed by her crush and, ultimately, to be more than just the “invisible” sister.
Enter Eric Anderson: the ultimate swoon-worthy hero. A European pro hockey player and her brother’s best friend, Eric temporarily moves to town to care for his nephew. His intention to help Taylor boost her self-confidence as her personal "confidence coach" adds complexity to their budding chemistry. His charm is hard to resist, showcasing the classic trope of the reformed player who’s here to lift the heroine up rather than tear her down. The way he calls Taylor a "librarian smokeshow"—while she initially scoffs—sets the stage for delightful banter and swoon-worthy moments.
Major’s writing style is as enchanting as ever, making the pacing brisk yet comfortable. I loved how she alternated between Taylor and Eric’s perspectives, providing a dual POV that enriched the story. Their thoughts and struggles felt raw and genuine, pulling me deeper into their world. The balance between sweet moments and hot tension had my heart racing.
I found myself particularly drawn to the themes of self-acceptance and found family. Eric’s struggles with his nephew highlighted his vulnerabilities, making him even more relatable. Watching Taylor support him while she gains confidence was incredibly heartwarming, creating a beautiful sense of unity that echoed throughout the narrative. Their interactions often sparked smiles; for instance, Eric’s playful remark, “You want my cookies, sweetheart?” that turned into a delightful exchange revealed his playful nature and genuine affection.
"While I’ve never considered myself possessive, it’s going to kill me to let her go." This line stuck with me, encapsulating the complex emotions involved in their relationship. It’s a fine balance between longing and fear, and Major captures it perfectly.
Someone to Have is a small-town romance filled with tender moments and delightful sparks. Readers who appreciate the brother’s best friend trope, themes of anxiety and self-confidence, or just a feel-good love story will find joy in these pages. For me, the experience was one of cozy warmth, with characters who felt like friends by the end.
In short, if you’re searching for a book that wraps you in sweet, heartfelt romance while also addressing deeper issues of self-worth, look no further. Michelle Major has crafted yet another gem that I couldn’t put down, and I traverse eagerly into her world, like a kid in a candy store. Trust me; you won’t want this story to end!
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