Benevolence, Book 2
From the publisher:
She’s rebuilding her life. He’s learning to heal. Together, they’ll discover that love can be the most powerful rescue of all.
From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Lucy Score comes a deeply moving small-town romance about finding hope after heartbreak, claiming your worth, and believing in second chances.
For Gloria, survival came first. Now, it’s time to live―and to trust that scars don’t mean broken.
Ten years lost to a controlling relationship have left Gloria determined to take her life back, one bold change at a time. Her next chapter? It’s hers alone. But hometown hero Aldo Moretta, a decorated military veteran with a wicked grin and a heart of gold, refuses to let her give up on love, or herself.
A single unforgettable kiss. A promise that lingers. And when Aldo’s deployment ends unexpectedly, Gloria must find the courage to fight for their happy ending―even if it means becoming the hero she never knew she could be.
Perfect for readers who love emotional small-town romance, strong heroines, and unforgettable love stories that linger long after the last page.
Author’s Note: You will laugh, cry, and fall head over face for Gloria and Aldo. And the evil rescue kitten. Also the four-letter-word-loving, commando-going Mrs. Moretta who’s just in it for the cookies.
My Lucy Score obsession continues…
This is a beautiful, emotional story about two wounded souls: a military man who loses a leg in combat and a woman who spent far too long trapped in an abusive relationship. Both carry deep scars—physical and emotional—and the question is whether they can set aside their baggage and finally let love into their lives.
The story runs parallel to Pretend You’re Mine, so readers of that book will recognize a few overlapping scenes. That said, it works perfectly well as a standalone, and you won’t feel lost if this is your first time in this world. Either way, you’re in for a treat: plenty of angst, humor, and emotion as strong characters learn to overcome what they believe defines or damages them.
The book centers on Aldo, a handsome, witty, and thoughtful Army reservist who is also a talented engineer. He’s truly the whole package—and he’s been quietly in love with Gloria from afar since high school. After being deployed, Aldo returns home a hero, but he’s also learning to navigate life after losing part of his leg in the war.
Gloria, meanwhile, spent ten years in an abusive relationship. Her character is written so beautifully that I found myself keeping a box of tissues close by. After nearly a decade of domestic abuse, she finally finds the courage to break free, and her journey—coming to terms with what she endured and recognizing what she truly deserves—is incredibly powerful and inspiring.
Aldo is patient, kind, and unwavering in his support of Gloria. He never leaves her guessing about how special she is, consistently encouraging her, lifting her up, and reminding her of her strength. Gloria is a gentle, kind soul, and it’s heartbreaking to read all she’s been through, which makes her growth even more meaningful.
Together, Aldo and Gloria are two wounded people learning how to heal, trust, and move forward. Their story is tender, emotional, and deeply rewarding—a reminder that love doesn’t require perfection, just courage, compassion, and the willingness to believe you are worthy of more.
1/2026 Stacy Alesi, AKA the BookBitch
FINALLY MINE by Lucy Score. Bloom Books. (September 30, 2022). ISBN: 978-1728282572. 488p.
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