Lake + Manning (Something in the Way) (Volume 4)
A home he built us on the unshakeable foundation we fought for.
A life of laughter carved out of heartache and betrayal.
A love story to stand the test of time.
But between a trust that can’t be broken, joy that can’t be bridled, and passion that would scorch the sun, the empty spaces are becoming more and more difficult to ignore . . .
Fears that keep Manning up at night as he slips from our bed.
Our complicated relationship with a man he respects and one I don't know how to forgive.
And a sprawling, beautiful home with one small room I'm afraid I'll never be able to fill.
Manning and I have what happily-ever-after is made of . . .
But I'll beg the heavens for just one thing more.
Reviews (434)
Perfect Ending to an Epic Love ❤️
Five Summer Triangle Stars 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟! If I could give this book all the stars in the universe I would! I really don't know where to begin with my review. I was one reader who was satisfied with the ending of Move the Stars, but also sad that there were going to be no more words to read about Lake and Manning. When it was announced that there would be a fourth book I was over the moon happy. And I started to develop expectations. Expectations of Manning, of Lake, and of their life together. I was not disappointed. All of my expectations were met, and then some. This book had everything. I laughed, I cried both happy and sad tears, and I was heartbroken at times. Nothing less than what I expect from Jessica Hawkins. And I also had the opportunity to get reacquainted with the Manning I fell in love with in Something in the Way. Manning made me fall in love all over again in this book. I didn't realize how much I missed him and needed this version of Manning until I had him again. Fans of this series will absolutely love Lake + Manning. Once again Jessica has poured her heart and soul into this couple and we as readers are rewarded for it.
They 'll confront the stars this time...together. <3
The conclusion of Bear and his Birdy…is both heart-warming and gut-wrenching. Honestly, it’s indescribable the big and epic grandness to the entirety of the series, and culminates in the final installment of a truly magnificent, raw, powerful, evocative, moving, and incredibly haunting Quartet. In Book 1, it's not just the beginning, but a beginning of an end because once Lake and Manning met, that was it. Something in the Way was about the intangible and fragile perceptions of what we think we know and how it wars with what we want, however indecipherable but instinctual. And richly multi-layered in the complex emotions for both characters. For Lake, at 16, it was love. A kind of love that came from somewhere so deep inside her, it gave her goosebumps from the inside out. For Manning, at 23, it was nostalgia. A brief sweetness in a dark abyss of his childhood that he lost, can’t shake, and somehow thinks he can regain in Lake. It is that remembrance of an innocence he hadn't touched or seen in an age that draws him to her. In him, he awoke, finally became alive, the second he saw her... In Manning, Lake's innocence was everything he needed, and everything she wanted to give. Only to him. In the next book, Somebody Else's Sky, everything is changed. And not. Not when it comes to the essentials of Lake's love for Manning but also her trust and belief in him as a good man. For Manning, the demons that haunt him continue to steer him on a path away from what he knows is wrong but also completely right. He lives on a different edge of darkness, and it lives within him. But it is a madness he's accepted and it can't be undone. He’s not going to hide that he lives in the real and in real he must in order to live his empty life. He already knows he doesn't get to have what others have, only what the fates will bestow upon him. He’s still trying to do the right thing, save Lake from himself. However, out of everything he tries so hard to control, he can't control his own path, his deep and growing feelings, towards Lake. Or the emotions that tear him apart and consume him. No, he can't save himself, but he'll give her everything he can--as long as it's not with him. Sometimes heaven is out of reach, and so the stars are close enough. In Move the Stars, time has passed. It's fast-forward and we're given a Lake a little older, somewhat wiser, and without her hero… A hero who has given up on his own dreams so that she can thrive. It's all a grand design--of Manning's making--his choices, his decision, his final verdict. But Lake isn't a girl anymore. And she's angry. She's hurt. Lost. Adrift. When Manning comes careening back in her life, the pull that's always been there, hasn't changed. In fact, it's become explosive. Finally, Manning lets himself believe, want, and have everything he's wanted, dreamed and wished for...but reality upends them both and this time...it's Lake that makes her choice. And walks away. Book 3 was supposed to be the end...but I *felt* it wasn't. That there were still layers to be unraveled. This time, it's Lake's story. Manning's, too. More importantly, it's their story. This time, Lake has the control but not the strength--not on her own. In this taut finale, it's about how much they need each other, and yes, deserve each other but how, in each other, they can truly overcome any obstacles and face all their fears—and they do—on their own terms. In this final installment, Lake + Manning, it's finally about them. Their journey, together. Their pain, struggles, joy, bliss--as a couple, a family, a team. No more distractions, no more outsiders pushing and pulling at them--they both will confront the stars and overcome, together. It's just them, on they own, good or bad, up or down, they either rise, or they fall--but together. This is a story as only they could wish it, and dared; to dream for more and to finally get everything they could hope for. However people felt about each book (ranted, raved, despised, loved, cried, hated—and every other emotion felt), Jessica Hawkins has delivered one of the most thought-provoking and intense emotional roller-coaster of a series. I sometimes didn’t like where she took us but I respected and admired her risks and writing a realistic and real story for the characters, and not trying to appease readers, and considering we’re a fickle bunch, it impresses me more she went with her gut and took those chances. In a genre filled with generic and formulaic romances, this Quartet goes beyond just a simple romance and digs so deep into the psyche and soul of two characters that they not only embed under your skin, but some piece them actually stays there. You cannot deny that Ms. Hawkins has a stunning and beautifully fucked-up view of romance and her characters but that’s what makes this series and her point of view so fascinating and hard to ignore. She's a master at character development. A storyteller who knows how to tell a story. She's an artist in the way she uses words to paint every aspect of this book for the reader's mind. Her words force you to feel--sometimes sad, happy, ugly, angry, bitter, heartbroken--emotions. Few books make your gut clench, your breath hitch, you brain hum with anticipation at what unexpected curveball she'll throw out you. Nothing is without intention, purpose, and focus. She's not about the fluff, and everything about the heart…about telling the story as it should be not told and not trying to write something that readers want or demand. She writes a story about two people with all the trimmings, including the triumphs and struggles that I think are quite relatable, eloquent, devastating but oh-so deliciously wonderful to read. If you don't read this final of a magnificent series, an extended HEA epilogue (60k words!), you are missing out in a big way. It has everything you want, wanted, and so much more. She continues to surprise me and I loved everything about it. But if you choose not to…well, maybe that’s for the best because Ms. Hawkins is still going to going to get a reaction out of you—and I’ll bet it’ll be an unexpected one at that. Not since CJ Roberts' The Dark Duet Series, have I been so pulled and strung out in the best possible way (x4! I guess I like to be emotionally destroyed). These characters aren't like any you've read. They feel like real people and we're taken along with them on their journey. They bleed, they hurt, and they love, and they can still laugh after all the hell that's reigned down on them. Sigh…I'm gonna miss Lake and Manning. I'm even going to miss Tiffany and their parents and all the secondary characters that also had an impact and also beautifully written to enhance the plot and challenge/support our MCs. I'm glad to have been part of their journey, their strife and especially their victories. And I think this last book truly completes the series in a way that won't leave you for quite a while but will think back with a deep, satisfied sigh, and with great fondness.
A LOVE STORY THAT STANDS THE TEST OF TIME AND WILL LIVE IN MY HEART FOREVER!
If I could pick ONE series for you guys to read, it would be The Something in the Way Series by Jessica Hawkins. I can't tell you what an epic journey she has taken me and MANY, MANY readers and friends on. It's unlike anything I've ever seen. EVER. Oh yeah, and the emotions this author put her readers through with this series is like... 😍😑🙄😯😥😒😖😱🤢😭😡💔❤️🔥😊😂😁😭🤤 I can't tell you how amazing this story was. I pulled an all nighter reading it, I couldn't stop, and I never ever want to say good bye to these characters. Lake + Manning is one of the most beautiful, emotional, and sexiest endings to a series I have ever read. I couldn't be HAPPIER with this gift she's given us. I've been invested in their lives, it's like they are a part of my family, a part of my heart ❤️ I'm so sad it's over, I really don't know what to do with myself now. I'll miss them so much, I know they'll not only live on in my heart forever, but in the hearts of many, many readers all across the world. Thank you so much Jessica for giving us such a beautiful, epic, and UNFORGETTABLE love story.
Lake + Manning are EVERYTHING!!!
I need a moment of silence to mourn the loss of these characters. They've been in my life for almost a year now and I don't know how to let them go. I have been on this journey with Lake, Manning and company since the very beginning. The author warned us that it would be a difficult road to travel, but she also said to trust her.... and thank goodness I did because the end result is more than worth it. I'm not going to go into details about Lake + Manning, just know you should experience it for yourself. I think it should be obvious, but please make sure to read Something in the Way, Somebody Else's Sky and Move the Stars before reading the final conclusion of Lake + Manning! I have never been more invested in a book series the way I have been with this one. There hasn't been a day that's gone by that I don't think about the characters. They are a part of my soul and I don't think they'll ever leave... and I don't want them to. I'm not ready to say goodbye. If you have any lingering questions about the series, they are all wrapped up in L+M. I do not have a single complaint- this whole novel was perfection from start to finish. Manning is *EVERYTHING* I have ever wanted, hoped for and dreamed about. This series will bring out every emotion. I laughed, I cried, I swooned, I got angry... and repeat. Jessica Hawkins is one of the most talented authors I have ever had the pleasure of reading. She is simply one of the best! I cannot wait to see what she has in store for us next!!!
Jessica Hawkins moved the stars for her fans with her unputdownable conclusion to this series.
Lake + Manning’s relationship has never been easy. If you’re reading the fourth installment of Something in the Way, you already know that Lake and Manning’s relationship has always been complicated. Well, the complexities didn’t end with Move the Stars. Lake and Manning are now pursuing their dreams together. Just like in any relationship, life isn’t always simple. Lake and Manning have similar goals, but are they out of reach? Is having it all in their stars? There is no doubt in my mind that you are going to read this book if you have read the other books in this series. Lake + Manning is phenomenal! This book is not to be missed. If you thought you loved Lake + Manning before, wait until you read this book. I can’t believe their story is over. I feel like I just closed a chapter on old friends. I’m happy the way it all ended. Jessica Hawkins moved the stars for her fans with her unputdownable conclusion to this series.
Lake + Manning = The Perfect Conclusion
If you have followed the saga of Lake and Manning since Something in the Way (and if you have not, I urge you to STOP READING THIS REVIEW right now - RIGHT NOW - because it will contain spoilers for the three books), then you know that our favorite why-aren't-they-together couple fought several seemingly insuperable obstacles before they were, finally, united. When I finished Move the Stars, I thought, "Okay. Thank you, Jessica Hawkins, for how you brought these two together." I didn't think I needed a fourth book. I didn't think I needed to read about more conflict between Lake and Manning. Jessica Hawkins, though, had other ideas. She knew her story was not finished. She knew that there were a few more things that Lake and Manning had to battle before they could truly find their happily-ever-after. And so now we get to spend more time with them, and what makes this book so fantastic is that we get to spend time with Lake and Manning together. Whereas they fought to be a couple - or fought against it, as the case may be - for three books, here they fight as one. The conflicts that Hawkins throws at them are organic and feel authentic. They do not feel forced or histrionic. When Lake says, "We had ways of molding the universe to meet our demands," you know that the emphasis here is on the word "we." If you learned anything about Lake and Manning over the course of the first three books, it is that they fight for what they want and what they need. They fight for what they deserve. Jessica Hawkins keeps them true to this ethos, never manipulating them into behaving in ways that feel inauthentic. Lake + Manning, it turns out, equals the perfect ending to a favorite couple's love story.
5 Summer Triangle Stars!
My thoughts are all over the place where Lake + Manning are concerned. How do you even begin to convey what reading their love story means, what feelings it evoked and how you’ll manage the ups and downs. This is not just a story full of angst, hope, frustration, love, anger, hatred, etc., etc. This is a journey. Jessica takes you on a journey that will captivate your heart and soul in a way you never thought possible. Nothing about Lake + Manning or their relationship has been an easy road to follow. Their love is all consuming, but sometimes fate likes to step in and test you again and again. Even so, Manning is strong and will do everything in his power to make sure his Birdy is safe, well taken care of and happy. To see Manning in is element, acting all alpha, “great bear” with his girl is soooooooooooooo sexy! Oh em gee this man, this is the Manning I absolutely love and adore. Lake is Lake, I’ve admired her from the start and that feeling has only intensified while following her through this bumpy life. When she loves, she loves with every fiber of her being. She’s honest, she’s real and I can honestly say I’m one of her biggest fans. I loved this story and the entire series. The characters have captured my heart, it will never be the same. Yes, I’m pretty sure there were multiple times my heart broke in two and I thought I might not survive. But with the love and support of my book girls, I made it through and I feel like I have a new family. Lake + Manning’s love story is a journey worth taking and one you won’t forget. The conclusion of Lake + Manning’s story is nothing short of perfection. Their love story is beautiful, painful, raw and emotional. Jessica’s writing is once again flawless as she guides us through the ever-changing obstacles they continue to face. Every word pulls you deeper and deeper into their lives. They’ve become family, not just characters in a love story. It won’t be easy to let go, I can’t believe their story has come to an end. I know without a doubt their story and my journey with them will always hold a special place in my heart ❤❤❤ #TeamLanning #BearandBirdy #Foreverinmyheart #Blueberrypie
5 hard earned emotional star! Everything I could’ve asked for and didn’ know I needed!
Have you ever read a book about characters that you're so invested in, that they become like your friends and family? You feel like you know them, but you lost touch with them and you don't know what has been going on with them lately? Lake + I’m Manning is that relationship for me. Jessica giving us this 4th and final book in the Something in the Way series is a gift I will never take for granted. You must have read the first 3 books in this series to read this one, and if you've made it through the other three. Congratulations! You ran the emotional marathon with the rest of us and we're here to see what becomes of Lake and Manning after their tumultuous ride to a happy ever after. This book ties up many, if not all the questions you have from the previous books. And in true Jessica Hawkins fashion, she takes you on a emotional tour of ups and downs for many characters. Not just the beloved title characters. There will be moments you will laugh, cry, swear, and moments when you need to take a breath and look back on the road that not only Lake and Manning have traveled; but you the reader as well. The expert way in which Jessica weaves beloved and treasured elements from the complete series in to the final book is nothing short of amazing. And something I didn't know I needed. But feel so complete and resplendent having been giving them by the masterful Ms. Hawkins! I can't explain the emotions of reading Lake + Manning, I feel like I finally was able to finally breathe and allow myself to accept all the bumps and bruises we the readers might've taken with these books. There was a certain moment towards the end, where I literally felt my wall crumble and experienced a rush of emotions. I can honestly say no other series or writer has given me a moment like this. Lake + Manning is everything I could've wanted and so much more. I will never forget the ride or the conductor (Ms. Jessica Hawkins). Nor will I forget the connections I've made through this series.
What a ride
Poor Lake is all I can say. Wow. I’m glad things worked out for her but she suffered ten times more than he did in my opinion. And she had to live through that “good” marriage (I’m trying not to give too much away), but really WHAT was he thinking?!?! All I could think was he got both sisters, and then stole her family, too. And then he wanted her to reconcile and grovel to her family after they conspired to keep them apart. I’m angry at Manning even though the story ended happily. He got way more than he deserved and Lake imo made all the sacrifices. Four years of marriage before he checked on her. Holidays with her family while she struggled. Surprise gifts and cars for her sister, while she got over heartbreak. What a jerk. Still the story moved me, but only for Lake’s agony of watching him stupidly screw and marry her sister. My emotions were only for her.
Lake and Manning, and their sky full of stars!
I don't think there ever was a series that I'd read in which every book deserved a 6-star rating. Except this one. And the weird thing is, every book was better than the last one, and... finally, we were given the most beautiful ending to the love story of Lake and Manning. Jessica Hawkins moved my standards and expectations so much higher, and I'm positive that this series will be the one to stay in my mind (and my heart; read: favorite) for a long, long time. Talk about a book hangover! I must say I was so excited when I heard there would be the fourth book in the series. Even though Lake and Manning ended up together at the end of Move the Stars, I felt there was so much more to their happily-ever-after. And the author gave us so much more in this book. I've read it in one breath. It was romantic... it was touching... it was sexy... it was heartbreaking... it was raw... it was beautiful, and scorching and amazing and hope-lifting and... I think this is the moment where words fail me: because there is not such an amazing word - that I know of - that can describe the experience of reading this book, laughing and crying with these characters, feeling for them; the closest I can come to describing it is with breathtaking! I don't want to divulge too much into the story, but let me say: all the loose ends are finally tied up, and happily-ever-after was never truer to everything it represents. If you loved the series this far, you have to read this book. It's a must-read conclusion to one EPIC love story, that will stay with you for as long as your memory serves you. I know for sure because it feels so hard for me to let go of this story, of these characters, and I'm sure it's evident considering this review has come to be from pure emotions: I didn't really think it through, I just wrote. Because I loved this book. Because it was beautiful. Because the Bear and the Birdy finally found their sky full of stars.
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