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The Hatley Family #2
The Last Promise You Made
RYDER HATLEY
After my ex stole from me and took off, I swore off anything that even looked like a relationship.
I survived by devoting myself to the ranch and my family, keeping my head down, and accepting some of us just aren’t meant for happily ever afters.
Until a spitfire undercover agent shatters everything I believed by introducing me to a little girl who’s supposedly mine.
Now, my world centers around keeping the child safe from the danger in her past and keeping my hands off the sexy agent who is guaranteed to do what all the women in my life have done before her—leave.
Until then, I have to protect them both while somehow guarding my heart.
GIA KENT
I’d already cleared Ryder Hatley and his family from ties to the cartel I’m hunting. But when a dead woman in a hotel leaves behind a little girl who appears to be his, I’m sent back to the wilds of Tennessee to investigate once more. What I can’t do is let the arrogant cowboy see how he makes my heart race.
I’m only in this middle-of-nowhere town until I make sure the girl is safe. To do that, I need to uncover the secret her mother was hiding. There’s no way I’ll get attached to the grumpy rancher turned doting father. No way I’ll see the three of us tucked into his home as the family I never wanted.
Not even a common enemy can force us to trust each other after our rocky start.
Desire is an inconvenience I won’t cave into.
Falling in love is absolutely out of the question…
Inspired by "A Little Bit Trouble" by Brothers Osborne, this fast-paced, standalone, heartfelt adventure is sure to make you hold your breath and keep turning the pages.
After my ex stole from me and took off, I swore off anything that even looked like a relationship.
I survived by devoting myself to the ranch and my family, keeping my head down, and accepting some of us just aren’t meant for happily ever afters.
Until a spitfire undercover agent shatters everything I believed by introducing me to a little girl who’s supposedly mine.
Now, my world centers around keeping the child safe from the danger in her past and keeping my hands off the sexy agent who is guaranteed to do what all the women in my life have done before her—leave.
Until then, I have to protect them both while somehow guarding my heart.
GIA KENT
I’d already cleared Ryder Hatley and his family from ties to the cartel I’m hunting. But when a dead woman in a hotel leaves behind a little girl who appears to be his, I’m sent back to the wilds of Tennessee to investigate once more. What I can’t do is let the arrogant cowboy see how he makes my heart race.
I’m only in this middle-of-nowhere town until I make sure the girl is safe. To do that, I need to uncover the secret her mother was hiding. There’s no way I’ll get attached to the grumpy rancher turned doting father. No way I’ll see the three of us tucked into his home as the family I never wanted.
Not even a common enemy can force us to trust each other after our rocky start.
Desire is an inconvenience I won’t cave into.
Falling in love is absolutely out of the question…
Inspired by "A Little Bit Trouble" by Brothers Osborne, this fast-paced, standalone, heartfelt adventure is sure to make you hold your breath and keep turning the pages.
468 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 29, 2024
1469 people are currently reading
1176 people want to read
About the author
L.J. Evans
34 books1,336 followersAward-winning author LJ Evans lives in Northern California with her husband, child, and the three terrors called cats. She's written compulsively since she was a little girl, often getting derailed from what she should be doing by a song lyric that sends her scrambling to jot a scene down.
A former first-grade teacher, she now spends her days deep in the pages of romance and mystery with a bit of the otherworldly thrown in. Her favorite characters are those who live resiliently—stubbornly and triumphantly getting through this wild ride called life with hope, love, and found families guiding the way.
Her novels have won multiple industry awards, including CHARMING AND THE CHERRY BLOSSOM which was Writer’s Digest’s Self-Published E-book Romance of the Year.
Find out more about LJ and her books at www.ljevansbooks.com
A former first-grade teacher, she now spends her days deep in the pages of romance and mystery with a bit of the otherworldly thrown in. Her favorite characters are those who live resiliently—stubbornly and triumphantly getting through this wild ride called life with hope, love, and found families guiding the way.
Her novels have won multiple industry awards, including CHARMING AND THE CHERRY BLOSSOM which was Writer’s Digest’s Self-Published E-book Romance of the Year.
Find out more about LJ and her books at www.ljevansbooks.com
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February 25, 2026
The Last Promise You Made is book two in The Hatley Family series by L.J. Evans. This book is amazing. It’s sweet, swoony and edge of your seat suspenseful. It can be read as a stand alone but I still will let you know the ties the main characters have to other books in case you have read them or plan to!
Ryder Hatley is thirty three years old. If you read book one, The Last One You Loved, you got to know his older brother, Maddox who is the sheriff of Willow Creek. Seven years ago, Ryder fell in love with a beautiful woman named Ravyn. They were engaged. But she left before the wedding, not only shattering his heart, but stealing money from the ranch as well which set them back financially. It took a long time to get back on their feet. Ryder considers Ravyn as the only woman he was meant to love, his soul mate. Now he is resigned to living the rest of his days alone. Except for one kiss he hasn’t been able to forget. The sister of a Secret Service agent that was staying at their ranch. They shared one passionate kiss and it has haunted his dreams ever since.
Gia Kent is twenty seven years old. She is an undercover agent for the National Security Agency. Even her family doesn’t know what she really does for a living. She moves from place to place alone. We met Gia’s brother, Holden, in book three of The Painted Daisies series. Gia has been working for years trying to bring down the Lovato crime family. She was on the trail of an elusive woman she was convinced was the key but what she found was a dead body and a little girl who was hiding. When she discovers who the little girl’s father possibly is, she knows that is the only place she can go to keep them safe until she can unravel this. Right back to the man she shared a kiss with so long ago that she’s never been able to forget!
When you first meet little seven year old Addy, your heart is going to explode right in your chest. This little girl is so sweet, so traumatized, and so smart. Watching her bond with Ryder made my eyes water.
LJ Evans builds and builds throughout this book. You don’t know who to trust. And you need to be prepared to not be able to put it down the last twenty five percent! I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. This is yet another work of art by this author, just a fantastic story. I loved Ryder, Gia and little Abby so much.
Ryder Hatley is thirty three years old. If you read book one, The Last One You Loved, you got to know his older brother, Maddox who is the sheriff of Willow Creek. Seven years ago, Ryder fell in love with a beautiful woman named Ravyn. They were engaged. But she left before the wedding, not only shattering his heart, but stealing money from the ranch as well which set them back financially. It took a long time to get back on their feet. Ryder considers Ravyn as the only woman he was meant to love, his soul mate. Now he is resigned to living the rest of his days alone. Except for one kiss he hasn’t been able to forget. The sister of a Secret Service agent that was staying at their ranch. They shared one passionate kiss and it has haunted his dreams ever since.
Gia Kent is twenty seven years old. She is an undercover agent for the National Security Agency. Even her family doesn’t know what she really does for a living. She moves from place to place alone. We met Gia’s brother, Holden, in book three of The Painted Daisies series. Gia has been working for years trying to bring down the Lovato crime family. She was on the trail of an elusive woman she was convinced was the key but what she found was a dead body and a little girl who was hiding. When she discovers who the little girl’s father possibly is, she knows that is the only place she can go to keep them safe until she can unravel this. Right back to the man she shared a kiss with so long ago that she’s never been able to forget!
When you first meet little seven year old Addy, your heart is going to explode right in your chest. This little girl is so sweet, so traumatized, and so smart. Watching her bond with Ryder made my eyes water.
LJ Evans builds and builds throughout this book. You don’t know who to trust. And you need to be prepared to not be able to put it down the last twenty five percent! I couldn’t turn the pages fast enough. This is yet another work of art by this author, just a fantastic story. I loved Ryder, Gia and little Abby so much.
August 27, 2024
3.75/5⭐️
3/5🌶
Segundo libro de los hermanos Harley.
Ryder es el mayor, lleva el rancho de su familia, convertido en complejo vacacional y trae el corazón roto desde que su prometida se fugó con el dinero y el anillo de su abuela.
Gia es agente encubierta, está investigando como destruir a un peligroso cartel de drogas y nunca se queda en ningún lado. Hace su trabajo y se va.
Este libro gustó más que el primero. El romance, si bien en cuanto a tiempo es un insta love, no se sintió así por la cantidad de escenas que tienen juntos eso lo hizo creíble.
La trama es súper dinámica y no te deja respirar. Hay mafia, secretos y mucha acción. Spicy como para cumplir, pero con mucha tensión previa. Estuvo bien, ya que toda la historia gira más en la situación con el cartel que en sí se acuestan o no.
Puntos flojos: como ya me pasó en el libro anterior, los villanos son muy planos, carecen de un solo gris. Además al completar escenas con el punto de vista del antagonista, es prácticamente una caricatura del malo. Iracundo y llevado la rabia y la violencia. Difícil creer que alguien así tenga la inteligencia para montar todo lo que se supone que hizo.
De todas formas es un libro entretenido y se lee súper rápido.
3/5🌶
Segundo libro de los hermanos Harley.
Ryder es el mayor, lleva el rancho de su familia, convertido en complejo vacacional y trae el corazón roto desde que su prometida se fugó con el dinero y el anillo de su abuela.
Gia es agente encubierta, está investigando como destruir a un peligroso cartel de drogas y nunca se queda en ningún lado. Hace su trabajo y se va.
Este libro gustó más que el primero. El romance, si bien en cuanto a tiempo es un insta love, no se sintió así por la cantidad de escenas que tienen juntos eso lo hizo creíble.
La trama es súper dinámica y no te deja respirar. Hay mafia, secretos y mucha acción. Spicy como para cumplir, pero con mucha tensión previa. Estuvo bien, ya que toda la historia gira más en la situación con el cartel que en sí se acuestan o no.
Puntos flojos: como ya me pasó en el libro anterior, los villanos son muy planos, carecen de un solo gris. Además al completar escenas con el punto de vista del antagonista, es prácticamente una caricatura del malo. Iracundo y llevado la rabia y la violencia. Difícil creer que alguien así tenga la inteligencia para montar todo lo que se supone que hizo.
De todas formas es un libro entretenido y se lee súper rápido.
June 24, 2024
Hiding from the cartel
After reading the first half of this book, I skimmed to the end. The book begins with a mother's gruesome murder and the discovery of her little girl, Addie, hiding under the bed. The mother's "in case of emergency" letter leads NSA agent, Gia, and Addie to a Tennessee ranch and Addie's father, Ryder. Previous antagonists, Gia and Ryder negotiate a truce while they care for the traumatized child and try to keep her existence a secret from the cartel. At the same time, Gia is also continuing her efforts to take down the cartel.
With so much going on, and a lot of hostility between the main characters, this is a very slow burn. The author signals the identity of the villains early and clearly which detracts from the suspense.
After reading the first half of this book, I skimmed to the end. The book begins with a mother's gruesome murder and the discovery of her little girl, Addie, hiding under the bed. The mother's "in case of emergency" letter leads NSA agent, Gia, and Addie to a Tennessee ranch and Addie's father, Ryder. Previous antagonists, Gia and Ryder negotiate a truce while they care for the traumatized child and try to keep her existence a secret from the cartel. At the same time, Gia is also continuing her efforts to take down the cartel.
With so much going on, and a lot of hostility between the main characters, this is a very slow burn. The author signals the identity of the villains early and clearly which detracts from the suspense.
March 12, 2026
🎧AUDIO REVIEW🎧
Well now, this was a great introduction into LJ’s word wizardry! Actually, not exactly. LOL A few months ago, I started listening to My Life as a Country Album and while I didn’t dislike it, single POV listens take me longer to get thru because it’s really hard to feel those kinds of stories, in audio, for me. Anywho, that’s all to say that I skipped over it to this audiobook, so it makes it my new-to-me audio instead.
THIS.STORY. At first, I felt like I should know things and I immediately went back to read some reviews and figure out if this was a “true” standalone. I was skeptical because my OCD tendencies were screaming I should know things. But it turned out I couldn’t do anything about it so I carried on. And on. And on. And on. And this morning at 5:45 am! What?! This was a pulse-pounding, grab you by the throat, I have to know what happens next immediately, kind of story and I was here for all of it! It was also deeply emotional, imo. There are several circumstances happening in the sotyr that tugged at every heartstring I have and just wouldn’t let go. The attraction and all around chemistry between our leads was also dynamic and sparked right off the pages, or in my case, my ears LOL! But you get what I mean.
When a book excites me the way this one did, I normally use my KU subscription and immediately download the book just to have it handy in case I want to read ahead about something that’s making me jittery or twitchy. I cancelled that subscription last month and MAN DO I MISS IT! Lol So I literally just had to wait for every single plot-point/circumstance to unfold in “real-time”, hence why I just kept going on and on and on … It was worth every single hour I missed of sleep! Having one of my favorite male narrators of course did not help me stop listening and get some sleep but also, I discovered a new “must listen to all the things” female narrator that also did not help me stop listening! 🎤Aaron Shedlock & Emery Erickson🎤 were absolute fire in this duet performance! They painted a vivid picture of this story, and I felt like I lived it! They made all the ups and downs and everything in between more poignant and suspenseful and heartfelt. Excellent experience all around for me!
Well now, this was a great introduction into LJ’s word wizardry! Actually, not exactly. LOL A few months ago, I started listening to My Life as a Country Album and while I didn’t dislike it, single POV listens take me longer to get thru because it’s really hard to feel those kinds of stories, in audio, for me. Anywho, that’s all to say that I skipped over it to this audiobook, so it makes it my new-to-me audio instead.
THIS.STORY. At first, I felt like I should know things and I immediately went back to read some reviews and figure out if this was a “true” standalone. I was skeptical because my OCD tendencies were screaming I should know things. But it turned out I couldn’t do anything about it so I carried on. And on. And on. And on. And this morning at 5:45 am! What?! This was a pulse-pounding, grab you by the throat, I have to know what happens next immediately, kind of story and I was here for all of it! It was also deeply emotional, imo. There are several circumstances happening in the sotyr that tugged at every heartstring I have and just wouldn’t let go. The attraction and all around chemistry between our leads was also dynamic and sparked right off the pages, or in my case, my ears LOL! But you get what I mean.
When a book excites me the way this one did, I normally use my KU subscription and immediately download the book just to have it handy in case I want to read ahead about something that’s making me jittery or twitchy. I cancelled that subscription last month and MAN DO I MISS IT! Lol So I literally just had to wait for every single plot-point/circumstance to unfold in “real-time”, hence why I just kept going on and on and on … It was worth every single hour I missed of sleep! Having one of my favorite male narrators of course did not help me stop listening and get some sleep but also, I discovered a new “must listen to all the things” female narrator that also did not help me stop listening! 🎤Aaron Shedlock & Emery Erickson🎤 were absolute fire in this duet performance! They painted a vivid picture of this story, and I felt like I lived it! They made all the ups and downs and everything in between more poignant and suspenseful and heartfelt. Excellent experience all around for me!
May 26, 2024
LJ Evans at her very best and one of my top reads this year. There aren't enough stars for this book: the heart stopping suspense as I suspected basically everyone, the way Ryder melts for the little girl he never knew, the character development - especially Gia when she goes from standoffish agent to the woman who always wanted love but didn't know how to fit it into her life, the palpable longing, and the most beautiful romance weaved through. It can be read as a pure standalone, but you're going to want more of this whole family when you're done. I've always believed LJ Evans to be one of the best romantic suspense authors, but she truly shines with this book.
I never want to leave the Hartleys or this ranch.
I never want to leave the Hartleys or this ranch.
May 29, 2024
4.5 stars
Ms. Evans has done it again, given us a heart pounding suspenseful story, with layered characters. The story is hard to put down, and her words create the emotion and tension needed to tell Gia and Ryders story.
Both our characters are a bit broken due to history and employment. Gia, the government agent who lives with secrets, is stubborn, protective, and sassy. Watching her with Ryder as walls are lowered, she realizes she can have more. Ryder has been burned and figured love is not in the cards for him, but the discovery of a daughter and the woman who brings her to him. Will they give in to the chemistry that simmers under the surface?
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Ms. Evans has done it again, given us a heart pounding suspenseful story, with layered characters. The story is hard to put down, and her words create the emotion and tension needed to tell Gia and Ryders story.
Both our characters are a bit broken due to history and employment. Gia, the government agent who lives with secrets, is stubborn, protective, and sassy. Watching her with Ryder as walls are lowered, she realizes she can have more. Ryder has been burned and figured love is not in the cards for him, but the discovery of a daughter and the woman who brings her to him. Will they give in to the chemistry that simmers under the surface?
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
June 2, 2024
L.J. Evans is definitely someone who should be reaching all the rankings and getting all the banners! Oh how I wish to scream from the rooftop and make everyone read her books. Her writing just touches my soul every single time! The Last Promise You Made is a sensational and captivating mix of heart wrecking emotions, jaw dropping suspense and scorching hot chemistry. Set in a beautiful heartwarming ranch full of amazing people, this love story hooked me from the first page with the fast paced and complicated plot full of twists. Gia and Ryder stole my heart easily..along with little Addy.
- NSA agent FMC
- ranch owner MMC
- romantic suspense
- second chance
- big family dynamics
- enemies to lovers
- small town
Gia and Ryder's path crosses for second time when she appears in his ranch and at his house with a terrified little girl who has just witnessed murder of her mother..and Ryder is informed that Addy is the daughter he never knew about and her mother is the woman who once destroyed his heart. Gia is working hard to take down the Lovato Cartel and Addy or her mother is an important key. The situation is so high strung all around. Ryder cannot trust Gia after her secret agent identity comes out. Addy is digging up all his old pain but he is determined to protect the little girl who has suffered so much. Ryder is just dream book boyfriend. He loves deep and hard. He cares intensely. He has this alpha side that wants to stand in front of every danger, emotional or physical, coming to his loved ones. And Gia tested and unraveled his control. I love a bada&& FMC and Gia is even more perfect because of her soft empathetic side. Sharp mind. High intelligence. Fearless and protective. Has a golden heart. Everything that made Ryder fall for her against all his inhibitions and resistance. Gia never thought love is in her cards. But spending the day in the ranch, with an amazing girl and an amazing man and the amazing family, made her realise she is missing something big. The plot is fast paced and expertly executed. It was a dazzling balance of angst, slow burn and action. You won't be able to stop once you start.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
- NSA agent FMC
- ranch owner MMC
- romantic suspense
- second chance
- big family dynamics
- enemies to lovers
- small town
Gia and Ryder's path crosses for second time when she appears in his ranch and at his house with a terrified little girl who has just witnessed murder of her mother..and Ryder is informed that Addy is the daughter he never knew about and her mother is the woman who once destroyed his heart. Gia is working hard to take down the Lovato Cartel and Addy or her mother is an important key. The situation is so high strung all around. Ryder cannot trust Gia after her secret agent identity comes out. Addy is digging up all his old pain but he is determined to protect the little girl who has suffered so much. Ryder is just dream book boyfriend. He loves deep and hard. He cares intensely. He has this alpha side that wants to stand in front of every danger, emotional or physical, coming to his loved ones. And Gia tested and unraveled his control. I love a bada&& FMC and Gia is even more perfect because of her soft empathetic side. Sharp mind. High intelligence. Fearless and protective. Has a golden heart. Everything that made Ryder fall for her against all his inhibitions and resistance. Gia never thought love is in her cards. But spending the day in the ranch, with an amazing girl and an amazing man and the amazing family, made her realise she is missing something big. The plot is fast paced and expertly executed. It was a dazzling balance of angst, slow burn and action. You won't be able to stop once you start.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
February 28, 2025
"Cuerpo. Corazón. Alma. Cada gramo que tenía para dar. Ansiaba que fuera mía."
El libro esta muy bien narrado y que la autora explicara detalladamente los sentimientos y conflictos de los protagonistas ayudaba a sentir empatía por ellos especialmente por Ryder que al principio me molestaba por las reacciones que tenía acerca de tener a la pequeña Abby en su casa porque según era peligrosa pero entendía su desconfianza y que no era fácil enterarse que tenía una hija con la mujer que rompió su corazón.
Gia la amo, al principio se mostraba como una mujer independiente que siempre tuvo su rumbo marcado porque ella sabía que quería dedicar su vida a su profesión pero con la llegada de Anny a su vida se dió cuenta que tal vez sus elecciones no fueron las correctas ya que con las nuevas interacciones que hubo con la familia de Ryder se dió cuenta que en el fondo siempre se sintió sola y no tenía nadie con quién compartir sus lindos momentos y se despertaron sus deseos de tener una familia.
El libro tiene su drama y descubrí rápidamente quién era el malo en todo esto pero fue muy entretenido porque la autora supo entrelazar muy bien la vida profesional de la protagonista, el vínculo de padre e hija entre Ryder y Abby, y sobre todo el romance que no fue para nada rápido.
El libro esta muy bien narrado y que la autora explicara detalladamente los sentimientos y conflictos de los protagonistas ayudaba a sentir empatía por ellos especialmente por Ryder que al principio me molestaba por las reacciones que tenía acerca de tener a la pequeña Abby en su casa porque según era peligrosa pero entendía su desconfianza y que no era fácil enterarse que tenía una hija con la mujer que rompió su corazón.
Gia la amo, al principio se mostraba como una mujer independiente que siempre tuvo su rumbo marcado porque ella sabía que quería dedicar su vida a su profesión pero con la llegada de Anny a su vida se dió cuenta que tal vez sus elecciones no fueron las correctas ya que con las nuevas interacciones que hubo con la familia de Ryder se dió cuenta que en el fondo siempre se sintió sola y no tenía nadie con quién compartir sus lindos momentos y se despertaron sus deseos de tener una familia.
El libro tiene su drama y descubrí rápidamente quién era el malo en todo esto pero fue muy entretenido porque la autora supo entrelazar muy bien la vida profesional de la protagonista, el vínculo de padre e hija entre Ryder y Abby, y sobre todo el romance que no fue para nada rápido.
May 21, 2024
Ryder Hatley is trying to get his life back on track after his ex broke his soul. Working on his family farm has been his calm until undercover agent Gia Kent comes back to town with a surprise in tow for him. When Gia finds a little girl left in a motel room crime scene she returns to Tennessee with the girl and a message for Mr. Hatley. Is this little girl Ryder’s? What happened in that motel room? Their first meeting was not the friendliest so what will Ryder do seeing Gia again and with her surprise news? This was a great mystery that keeps your interest throughout. It’s mixed with a small town feel and a swoonworthy southern cowboy that deserves his happy ending. My heart goes out to all Ryder has been through and I enjoyed his banter with Gia. A beautiful story of second chances and protecting the ones you love. Told in first person and multiple POV
May 21, 2024
What an extraordinary book! I fell in love with the Hatley family in The Last One You Loved and I’ve been eagerly awaiting Ryder and Gia’s story. I loved every single page, and it just might be my favorite standalone LJ Evans has written. The suspense and danger of this book is almost tangible, and their love story is so darn beautiful. I was a wreck, turning pages as quickly as I could, to see how the story would end.
Ryder is my new favorite Hero. This gruff, brokenhearted cowboy, who had given up on his own Happily Ever After, has my whole heart. As LJ Evans revealed all the different layers of him, I fell deeper and deeper in love with him. Ryder takes care of everyone in his life, always putting himself and his happiness second. The way he gains Addy and Gia’s trust and love touched my heart deeply. Gia is gorgeous, feisty and intelligent and she’ll do anything to protect those she cares about, even keeping the truth of her life a secret.
Seeing these strong, protective individuals allow themselves to be vulnerable so they can come together in love is almost breathtakingly beautiful. Seeing Addy get the life, the childhood and the family she should have had all along is … extraordinary.
Ryder is my new favorite Hero. This gruff, brokenhearted cowboy, who had given up on his own Happily Ever After, has my whole heart. As LJ Evans revealed all the different layers of him, I fell deeper and deeper in love with him. Ryder takes care of everyone in his life, always putting himself and his happiness second. The way he gains Addy and Gia’s trust and love touched my heart deeply. Gia is gorgeous, feisty and intelligent and she’ll do anything to protect those she cares about, even keeping the truth of her life a secret.
Seeing these strong, protective individuals allow themselves to be vulnerable so they can come together in love is almost breathtakingly beautiful. Seeing Addy get the life, the childhood and the family she should have had all along is … extraordinary.
June 29, 2024
This book had my heart racing in more ways than one!! In this romantic suspense novel, a NSA analyst, Gia, who’s undercover saves a young girl (Addy) who’s bidding at a crime scene… who happens to be the long lost daughter of a sexy cowboy, Ryder, she once met. She takes it upon herself to make sure this little girl is safe which means reuniting with Ryder. Feelings get sparked back up and tension is HIGH. So much is unknown but as the story progresses you can’t help but stay on the edge of your seat to find out what will happen next!!
Addy was such a sweet kid & had my heart so full. You will fall in love with this lil cutie. Now Ryder & Gia were something else!! They were hot & filled with underlying love & attraction. I loved how the three of them were together, so protective & loving & GOOD.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
Small town
Opposites attract
Found family
Single dad
Addy was such a sweet kid & had my heart so full. You will fall in love with this lil cutie. Now Ryder & Gia were something else!! They were hot & filled with underlying love & attraction. I loved how the three of them were together, so protective & loving & GOOD.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Tropes:
Small town
Opposites attract
Found family
Single dad
May 22, 2024
“I’ll write myself onto your soul and never let go.”
Interwoven with fairytales and mystical stories, LJ Evans takes you on a loving journey of; safety, broken hearts and discovered souls. There are two romances in this wonderful story; a love between a man with a destroyed soul and his daughter, and that of a strong, independent woman and her soulmate. Enjoy Ryder, Gia and Addy, as they find their future. A beautifully written story, that keeps you turning the pages.
Interwoven with fairytales and mystical stories, LJ Evans takes you on a loving journey of; safety, broken hearts and discovered souls. There are two romances in this wonderful story; a love between a man with a destroyed soul and his daughter, and that of a strong, independent woman and her soulmate. Enjoy Ryder, Gia and Addy, as they find their future. A beautifully written story, that keeps you turning the pages.
October 7, 2025
Enjoyed the mystery more than the romance
May 10, 2024
Absolutely amazing! What a story! The way LJ Evans weaves this story is incredible…the love, the suspense, the danger, the uncertainty…I’m not sure I have adequate words to describe this book. This one made my heart race, my anxiety spike and my palms sweat! Quite possibly my new favorite LJ Evans book and that says a lot as I’ve loved them all. But this one is special…truly amazing!
July 2, 2024
DNF
I read the first book in the series and loved it. I got up to 47% on this one before giving up. Here’s why:
1) There are people and events that are talked about that are clearly relevant to the characters and their relationship, but don’t happen in this book or the first book. More than just a passing reference.
2) I don’t like Gia.
3) I am not buying the attraction between Gia and Ryder (see 1 and 2). I dread them getting together, in fact.
4) They have already left Addy unprotected three times when she is clearly in danger of some sort.
I really like this family and the suspense part of the storyline, so maybe I’ll try it again someday.
I read the first book in the series and loved it. I got up to 47% on this one before giving up. Here’s why:
1) There are people and events that are talked about that are clearly relevant to the characters and their relationship, but don’t happen in this book or the first book. More than just a passing reference.
2) I don’t like Gia.
3) I am not buying the attraction between Gia and Ryder (see 1 and 2). I dread them getting together, in fact.
4) They have already left Addy unprotected three times when she is clearly in danger of some sort.
I really like this family and the suspense part of the storyline, so maybe I’ll try it again someday.
May 21, 2024
The Last Promise You Made by L.J. Evans
-Hatley Family Book 2-
4.25/5⭐️
2/3🌶️
•My Thoughts•
This was a true romantic suspense I didn’t know I was craving! Our FMC, Gia, is an undercover NSA agent working to bring down the cartel and everything is intense from the beginning. Ryder was a perfectly grumpy cowboy nursing a broken heart from years past and was completely thrown when he found out he had a daughter. I loved this twist on the typical single dad trope and how Ryder rose to the occasion. LJ Evans writes modern day fated mates in a really beautiful way and even though the overall timeline was quick, the characters’ journey was thoughtful and the tension was fantastic. I loved the family dynamics and the sibling banter was fun. This is written as a standalone but our MCs first encounter each other in book 1 and while you don’t NEED to read it, you won’t regret it!
*Check content warnings since this deals with the cartel world, violence and trauma in children.
*A fun side note: LJs stories are often inspired by music and each chapter is the title of a song! It definitely adds to the experience!!
Thanks you to LJ Evans for the advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own. The Last Promise You Made releases May 29th, 2024.
-Hatley Family Book 2-
4.25/5⭐️
2/3🌶️
•My Thoughts•
This was a true romantic suspense I didn’t know I was craving! Our FMC, Gia, is an undercover NSA agent working to bring down the cartel and everything is intense from the beginning. Ryder was a perfectly grumpy cowboy nursing a broken heart from years past and was completely thrown when he found out he had a daughter. I loved this twist on the typical single dad trope and how Ryder rose to the occasion. LJ Evans writes modern day fated mates in a really beautiful way and even though the overall timeline was quick, the characters’ journey was thoughtful and the tension was fantastic. I loved the family dynamics and the sibling banter was fun. This is written as a standalone but our MCs first encounter each other in book 1 and while you don’t NEED to read it, you won’t regret it!
*Check content warnings since this deals with the cartel world, violence and trauma in children.
*A fun side note: LJs stories are often inspired by music and each chapter is the title of a song! It definitely adds to the experience!!
Thanks you to LJ Evans for the advanced copy. All thoughts and opinions are my own. The Last Promise You Made releases May 29th, 2024.
May 28, 2024
4.5 ⭐️
I was looking for an emotional story and this one delivers. By Chapter 2 I was already feeling the emotions.
Ryder and Gia are closed off to relationships and emotions. His ex broke him. He spends his life devoted to his family and their ranch. Gia is focused on her career as an undercover agent.
At a crime scene, Gia discovers a little girl clutching a letter naming Ryder as her father. Taking the little girl to the ranch, Gia sticks around to ensure she's protected and hidden.
The evolution of the characters and their relationships captured my heart.
The romance is a slow burn but the story is not. This is a carefully constructed complex story. There is romance, suspense, danger, and so much more. I loved seeing Ryder embrace being a father and Gia open up to love and connection.
The world created is so well-crafted. I loved the cross-over characters, but it's not necessary to read those or book one in the series to pick this one up.
I was looking for an emotional story and this one delivers. By Chapter 2 I was already feeling the emotions.
Ryder and Gia are closed off to relationships and emotions. His ex broke him. He spends his life devoted to his family and their ranch. Gia is focused on her career as an undercover agent.
At a crime scene, Gia discovers a little girl clutching a letter naming Ryder as her father. Taking the little girl to the ranch, Gia sticks around to ensure she's protected and hidden.
The evolution of the characters and their relationships captured my heart.
The romance is a slow burn but the story is not. This is a carefully constructed complex story. There is romance, suspense, danger, and so much more. I loved seeing Ryder embrace being a father and Gia open up to love and connection.
The world created is so well-crafted. I loved the cross-over characters, but it's not necessary to read those or book one in the series to pick this one up.
May 29, 2024
This has been a fabulous read. Ryder's stoic, steadfast character, whose heart has been shredded, but who has found solace and some peace in the heart of his family and home, is brought face to face with a woman from his past and something much, much more. Gia's courage, commitment, and passion for her job, brings her back to a slice of her past in the form of Ryder and her ongoing job.
This book has mysteries, danger, thrills, love, friendship, and a poignant portrait of a vulnerable child. It is written skillfully, layering events cleverly so that the tension builds and builds. It contrasts good with evil in a way that has your heart in your mouth and doubts about people round every corner! The slow growing love at its heart is shrouded by things that are hidden, secrets that must be unravelled and revealed, making the journey to happiness one which is fraught with uncertainty and danger...and I loved every minute. Fabulous! 💖💖💖💖💖
This book has mysteries, danger, thrills, love, friendship, and a poignant portrait of a vulnerable child. It is written skillfully, layering events cleverly so that the tension builds and builds. It contrasts good with evil in a way that has your heart in your mouth and doubts about people round every corner! The slow growing love at its heart is shrouded by things that are hidden, secrets that must be unravelled and revealed, making the journey to happiness one which is fraught with uncertainty and danger...and I loved every minute. Fabulous! 💖💖💖💖💖
July 3, 2025
Beautiful Story
Ryder and Gia are fire and ice sometimes and at others they are two separate fires becoming one
He represents everything she didn’t think she would ever want and yet ends up falling head over tail bone for him and his daughter.
Rayvn ended up bringing Ryder three loves into his life: hers that was short and sweet, his daughter which is just pure joy, and Gia who ended up being the missing piece of his soul
I read Sadie’s book before this one and the things about Ryder and Gia mentioned in her book make more sense now.
This book will make you swoon, laugh, smile, and try to out the pieces of the puzzle together before the big reveal.
Ryder and Gia are fire and ice sometimes and at others they are two separate fires becoming one
He represents everything she didn’t think she would ever want and yet ends up falling head over tail bone for him and his daughter.
Rayvn ended up bringing Ryder three loves into his life: hers that was short and sweet, his daughter which is just pure joy, and Gia who ended up being the missing piece of his soul
I read Sadie’s book before this one and the things about Ryder and Gia mentioned in her book make more sense now.
This book will make you swoon, laugh, smile, and try to out the pieces of the puzzle together before the big reveal.
May 24, 2024
What a fantastic romantic suspense!!
March 29, 2025
4/5 stars - Definitely enjoying this series. Love that is mixes the thriller/suspense aspect I enjoy with a smidge of romance. Very low spice in this one. Lots of plot.
November 14, 2025
I mean it was hard to get through some parts but this was actually nice
June 12, 2024
I’m just going to say it I HATED THE MMC! I thought this had a good storyline and I liked the MFC but the MMC was just too over the top possessive and macho for me. I mean she’s a trained operative for the NSA and even his brother is the sheriff but the MMC, as a ranch owner, is going to be all macho and take it upon himself to not draw others strength and be the one to protect everyone. I wish the romcom authors would for once let a FMC shine without the counterpart not having full trust in her level of skill. Maybe it’s just me but I think being treated as an equal or even better supported for my level of skill is pretty darn sexy. Okay, my rant is over. The book is still worth reading because most of the support characters are great and the plot is very good.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 8, 2024
I Loved this one so much. This is one of my favorite authors so I always go in knowing I’ll enjoy it, but this one was so different from what I expected. I was excited when this book was announced because I really enjoyed this family and was hoping for one. This book brings out all the feels on top of bringing the suspense. These are two people that have isolated themselves for completely different reasons, but the result was the same. The story is a beautiful healing process.
September 15, 2024
I LOVE LJ’S WORDS!!
I absolutely loved this book. But it’s no surprise really. I know when I read a book by this author, I’m going to be immersed in a world she created and be pulled in immediately.
Suspense and action and tingly sexual tension and sexy kisses and heart-squeezing emotions…plus beautiful written words made this a perfect love story. Some moments were nail-biters, some were heart-wrenching, and a lot of them were sweet and absolutely heartwarming.
The love that slowly and deliciously grew with each turn of the page made my heart burst with pure joy.
The patience and understanding and tenderness Ryder & Gia showed little Miss Addie was so dang sweet and beautiful I could’ve cried. All of the characters are so lovable, I felt like I knew them. I was thoroughly smitten with all of them.
LJ Evans has a way with words, and she had me hooked from the very beginning of this story until the very end. Suspenseful and thrilling, full of heart and emotion, beautifully written, words so poetic, I couldn’t love this any harder if I tried.
I absolutely loved this book. But it’s no surprise really. I know when I read a book by this author, I’m going to be immersed in a world she created and be pulled in immediately.
Suspense and action and tingly sexual tension and sexy kisses and heart-squeezing emotions…plus beautiful written words made this a perfect love story. Some moments were nail-biters, some were heart-wrenching, and a lot of them were sweet and absolutely heartwarming.
The love that slowly and deliciously grew with each turn of the page made my heart burst with pure joy.
The patience and understanding and tenderness Ryder & Gia showed little Miss Addie was so dang sweet and beautiful I could’ve cried. All of the characters are so lovable, I felt like I knew them. I was thoroughly smitten with all of them.
LJ Evans has a way with words, and she had me hooked from the very beginning of this story until the very end. Suspenseful and thrilling, full of heart and emotion, beautifully written, words so poetic, I couldn’t love this any harder if I tried.
June 3, 2024
The Last Promise You Made is the 2nd book in Evan’s Hatley Family series. If I’m being honest I wasn’t really enamored with the male protagonist in this book Ryder Hatley’s character in his brother Maddox’s book, The Last One You Loved, the 1st book in this series. In The Last One You Loved it was clear that Ryder had his heart broken by Ravyn a former love, and so was very cynical and down on love. He kept urging his younger brother Maddox to question whether McKenna whom had broken Maddox’s heart years ago, could be trusted with it again. In this book we learn what Ravyn did to devastate Ryder to the point that years later he still didn’t believe he’d ever find love again. And something that bothered me in this book was how we’re supposed to believe how much in love Ryder had been with Ravyn, but then he tells us repeatedly how much more he feels for this book’s female protagonist NSA Agent Gia Kent. Considering how the author portrayed the way Ravyn’s betrayal had devastated Ryder it was difficult for me to believe he could love any other woman anymore than he had her. I’m not sure why Evans felt it necessary to stress that point? IMHO it would have been fine for Ryder to have loved and lost Ravyn and loved Gia just as much as he had Ravyn. Just as people who are widowed can find love again without comparing their love for the new person in their lives with that of their lost partner. I’ll also say that while I know Ryder is supposed to be a grumpy hero with a heart of gold under neath, I found his surly attitude and short temper early in this story off-putting.
Gia Kent is an NSA Collections Agent whom we met briefly in After All the Wreckage, a standalone book which I loved. Rory, that book’s female protagonist makes frequent appearance in this story as Gia’s co-worker and friend, as they both work to bring down the Lovato Cartel that among other things was responsible for Rory’s mother’s death. Gia had dreamed of becoming a secret agent like Jason Bourne and James Bond since she was a little child. Since graduating college with a double major in computer science and law enforcement Gia has been living her dream, working undercover, trotting the globe from one hotspot to another. Growing up an Army brat she learned young not to form lasting relationships. Even her family which includes a father and brother whom are both ex-Secret Service agents have no idea that Gia is an NSA agent. Her brother appeared in the Painted Daisy’s book Cherry Brandy as the male protagonist, a Secret Service agent assigned to guard the Vice President’s daughter whom he falls in love with. I wasn’t aware until this book that the Hatley Ranch played a prominent role in that story.
When Gia arrives at the motel room where the tortured body of Ravyn (aka. Anna Smith) the elusive cartel coder the task force she’s been working for has been chasing for years lying on the motel room’s blood-soaked carpet. Gia discovers a young girl Addy, who looks just like Ravyn hiding under the bed. Gia believes the girl is Anna/Ravyn’s daughter who witnessed her mother’s grizzly murder. A letter the girl is clutching to her chest confirms her beliefs and shockingly reveals that Addy is Ryder Hatley’s daughter. Gia had met Ryder briefly while at the Hatley Ranch while undercover investigating possible links between the Tennessee dude ranches in the area and the cartel. Ryder and Gia shared an intense spark of sexual attraction but when Ryder caught her snooping through the files in his office things didn’t go well. Which is why this is an enemies to lovers trope. Gia left the ranch without so much as a goodbye to anyone in the Hartley family who had been so warm and welcoming to her on her visit. Now Gia must return to Willow Springs to bring Ryder the daughter he never knew he had. She must also stay there to protect Addy who could be the key to bringing the entire Lovato cartel down. As you can imagine Ryder whom after Ravyn already had serious trust issues with women before he caught Gian snooping doesn’t exactly give her a warm welcome. But the forced proximity out of the necessity of Gia staying close to Addy allows that simmering sexual attraction to burst into flames. Beyond their sexual attraction they both come to respect and admire each other as fully dimensional people rather than their earlier impressions of one another. As the minions of the cartel leader make repeated attempts to get their hands on Addy forcing Ryder and Gia to circle the proverbial wagons to protect the little girl they’ve both come to love, their feelings for each other grow. Ryder is forced to accept that Ravyn wasn’t really the manipulative monster he believed she was when she broke his heart. Gia begins to question her dedication to her career, longing for the warmth and love and sense of home Ryder and his family so freely offer. My only real issue with this story is I thought the plot falls apart a lot after we discover whom the head of the cartel is. A fittingly total psychopath who seems to become more unhinged every time the author dedicates a chapter to him. Gia comes up with a ridiculous plan to waltz into the man’s lair by herself and try to use her womanly wiles to charm him into providing the information they need to build a rock solid case against him while fully aware that he may know she’s an NSA agent. Which of course he does. I also found the way Ryder allowed the man to separate him and Gia totally out of character for him even though he knew that was what she wanted. Despite those issues with the story, I still found the chapters dedicated to confronting the evil cartel leader heart pounding. All in all I found The Last Promise You Made a damn good page turning book with plenty of steam.
Gia Kent is an NSA Collections Agent whom we met briefly in After All the Wreckage, a standalone book which I loved. Rory, that book’s female protagonist makes frequent appearance in this story as Gia’s co-worker and friend, as they both work to bring down the Lovato Cartel that among other things was responsible for Rory’s mother’s death. Gia had dreamed of becoming a secret agent like Jason Bourne and James Bond since she was a little child. Since graduating college with a double major in computer science and law enforcement Gia has been living her dream, working undercover, trotting the globe from one hotspot to another. Growing up an Army brat she learned young not to form lasting relationships. Even her family which includes a father and brother whom are both ex-Secret Service agents have no idea that Gia is an NSA agent. Her brother appeared in the Painted Daisy’s book Cherry Brandy as the male protagonist, a Secret Service agent assigned to guard the Vice President’s daughter whom he falls in love with. I wasn’t aware until this book that the Hatley Ranch played a prominent role in that story.
When Gia arrives at the motel room where the tortured body of Ravyn (aka. Anna Smith) the elusive cartel coder the task force she’s been working for has been chasing for years lying on the motel room’s blood-soaked carpet. Gia discovers a young girl Addy, who looks just like Ravyn hiding under the bed. Gia believes the girl is Anna/Ravyn’s daughter who witnessed her mother’s grizzly murder. A letter the girl is clutching to her chest confirms her beliefs and shockingly reveals that Addy is Ryder Hatley’s daughter. Gia had met Ryder briefly while at the Hatley Ranch while undercover investigating possible links between the Tennessee dude ranches in the area and the cartel. Ryder and Gia shared an intense spark of sexual attraction but when Ryder caught her snooping through the files in his office things didn’t go well. Which is why this is an enemies to lovers trope. Gia left the ranch without so much as a goodbye to anyone in the Hartley family who had been so warm and welcoming to her on her visit. Now Gia must return to Willow Springs to bring Ryder the daughter he never knew he had. She must also stay there to protect Addy who could be the key to bringing the entire Lovato cartel down. As you can imagine Ryder whom after Ravyn already had serious trust issues with women before he caught Gian snooping doesn’t exactly give her a warm welcome. But the forced proximity out of the necessity of Gia staying close to Addy allows that simmering sexual attraction to burst into flames. Beyond their sexual attraction they both come to respect and admire each other as fully dimensional people rather than their earlier impressions of one another. As the minions of the cartel leader make repeated attempts to get their hands on Addy forcing Ryder and Gia to circle the proverbial wagons to protect the little girl they’ve both come to love, their feelings for each other grow. Ryder is forced to accept that Ravyn wasn’t really the manipulative monster he believed she was when she broke his heart. Gia begins to question her dedication to her career, longing for the warmth and love and sense of home Ryder and his family so freely offer. My only real issue with this story is I thought the plot falls apart a lot after we discover whom the head of the cartel is. A fittingly total psychopath who seems to become more unhinged every time the author dedicates a chapter to him. Gia comes up with a ridiculous plan to waltz into the man’s lair by herself and try to use her womanly wiles to charm him into providing the information they need to build a rock solid case against him while fully aware that he may know she’s an NSA agent. Which of course he does. I also found the way Ryder allowed the man to separate him and Gia totally out of character for him even though he knew that was what she wanted. Despite those issues with the story, I still found the chapters dedicated to confronting the evil cartel leader heart pounding. All in all I found The Last Promise You Made a damn good page turning book with plenty of steam.
March 4, 2025
There were some parts of this book I really enjoyed, and then other parts I disliked.
1) I loved Addy and Ryder’s relationship. I wish we had gotten more
2) I didn’t care for Gia and her storyline. I felt annoyed reading her chapters
3) Some of the stuff that happened after Gia took Addy to Willow Creek felt illegal. Would she just be able to take her without CPS involved. We didnt get DNA until 75% of the book.
4) the timing moved way to fast
5) I skimmed the last 75% of this book. It got soooooo long and winded. I just wanted it to be done. Good grief.
6) the “gang” characters felt sooo confusing. tooo many and they had their own side stories.
1) I loved Addy and Ryder’s relationship. I wish we had gotten more
2) I didn’t care for Gia and her storyline. I felt annoyed reading her chapters
3) Some of the stuff that happened after Gia took Addy to Willow Creek felt illegal. Would she just be able to take her without CPS involved. We didnt get DNA until 75% of the book.
4) the timing moved way to fast
5) I skimmed the last 75% of this book. It got soooooo long and winded. I just wanted it to be done. Good grief.
6) the “gang” characters felt sooo confusing. tooo many and they had their own side stories.
May 30, 2024
Gloriously Emotional Romantic Suspense Ranch Romance!
LJ Evans made my heart bleed with Gia, Ryder and Addy in The Last Promise You Made! There are so many emotions from the very beginning its impossible not to get wrapped up in this book and her characters!!
Ryder is not JUST a growly cowboy, he is an angry man who's been left behind by not one, but TWO women and his heart has scarred over and he's unwilling to let anyone else back in. So when he gets the call from Maddox, and the surprise of his life of course the first emotion he reaches for is anger, he doesn't know how to do anything else.
He opens up quickly though, it's impossible not to when the dreams he thought were smashed beyond repair are coming back to life right in front of him. Ryder just has to make sure to keep guarding his heart because like last time, Gia might not stay, she might not be what she seems like this time. LJ makes Ryder so sweet, smart, and effervescent when it comes to the love he has for his family and their land, I just wanted to squeeze him!!
Gia seems like a rock polished to a diamond, determined to keep people from reaching the core of her. When she finds Addy, she knows she has to do the one thing she never wanted to; return to the Hatley Ranch and Whitlock, Tennessee. Gia is more resolute now than ever to lock up any feelings she might have had for the surly rancher. She and Ryder have nothing in common, and he is sure she's nothing but a liar and maybe even a thief.
Gia is strong, sexy, and suspenseful throughout most of the first half of The Last Promise You Made. Why is she ok with protectors that are not known to the county sherrifs sticking around the house, especially when he disappears every time something else happens with the Lovados? Why will she not answer questions, but she expects Ryder to keep everything swirling around them secret - even from his family??
The suspense in this book is absolutely hair raising in certain parts, and had me racing through it afraid to miss even a single sentence! The color sequence at the ball was over the top disturbing, and had me shivering with each course. It was also incredibly interesting because I could tell where Jaime intended to go with it and I wondered if it disturbed his guests as much as it disturbed Gia and Ryder, or if it was solely for their benefit.
In the end LJ Evans has written a gloriously emotional book with beautiful characters that I am sad to leave behind, she gave them such a sweet ending with everything everyone deserved. The epilogue is absolutely FIRE, and I cannot WAIT to get back to the Hatley Ranch soon!!
LJ Evans made my heart bleed with Gia, Ryder and Addy in The Last Promise You Made! There are so many emotions from the very beginning its impossible not to get wrapped up in this book and her characters!!
Ryder is not JUST a growly cowboy, he is an angry man who's been left behind by not one, but TWO women and his heart has scarred over and he's unwilling to let anyone else back in. So when he gets the call from Maddox, and the surprise of his life of course the first emotion he reaches for is anger, he doesn't know how to do anything else.
He opens up quickly though, it's impossible not to when the dreams he thought were smashed beyond repair are coming back to life right in front of him. Ryder just has to make sure to keep guarding his heart because like last time, Gia might not stay, she might not be what she seems like this time. LJ makes Ryder so sweet, smart, and effervescent when it comes to the love he has for his family and their land, I just wanted to squeeze him!!
Gia seems like a rock polished to a diamond, determined to keep people from reaching the core of her. When she finds Addy, she knows she has to do the one thing she never wanted to; return to the Hatley Ranch and Whitlock, Tennessee. Gia is more resolute now than ever to lock up any feelings she might have had for the surly rancher. She and Ryder have nothing in common, and he is sure she's nothing but a liar and maybe even a thief.
Gia is strong, sexy, and suspenseful throughout most of the first half of The Last Promise You Made. Why is she ok with protectors that are not known to the county sherrifs sticking around the house, especially when he disappears every time something else happens with the Lovados? Why will she not answer questions, but she expects Ryder to keep everything swirling around them secret - even from his family??
The suspense in this book is absolutely hair raising in certain parts, and had me racing through it afraid to miss even a single sentence! The color sequence at the ball was over the top disturbing, and had me shivering with each course. It was also incredibly interesting because I could tell where Jaime intended to go with it and I wondered if it disturbed his guests as much as it disturbed Gia and Ryder, or if it was solely for their benefit.
In the end LJ Evans has written a gloriously emotional book with beautiful characters that I am sad to leave behind, she gave them such a sweet ending with everything everyone deserved. The epilogue is absolutely FIRE, and I cannot WAIT to get back to the Hatley Ranch soon!!
May 27, 2024
"Those three words have changed my life, even if they haven't changed yours."
"It wasn't the words that changed me, darlin'. It was you."
After finding a small, haunted girl hiding at the scene of a brutal murder associated with the Lovato Cartel and realizing that this child may be the break in the case she's devoted her career to working , NSA agent Gia Kent vows to protect the child from whoever killed her mother. Finding out that said child is also the child of the man she has trouble forgetting complicates matters. Ryder Hatley is a somewhat grumpy, heartbroken man who has emotionally closed himself off to protect him after his fiance lost their baby and left him, stealing family money when she left. He's let himself reconsider relationships only once with Gia, but then he found her snooping in his family's ranch office and swore he'd never do it again. When she shows up with a child he thought didn't exist, both Ryder and Gia must reevaluate everything they thought they wanted in life.
Once again L.J. Evans has woven together a romantic suspense novel that draws you in and plays with your emotions. The slow burn chemistry is fantastic, creating a sense of anticipation and realistic connection, not only between the characters, but also for the reader. Watching the relationship between Ryder and Gia develop and mature was fantastic and the way they care for and protect Addy just warms the heart. It was great to see how Ryder doesn't try to change Gia, allowing her to be who she is and respecting that she has skills that he does not, but also offering her comfort and quiet support. If you are a fan of L.J. Evans, you will recognize Gia as the sister of Holden from Cherry Brandy. The Hatley family is so warm and loving that I just want to be adopted by them! I can't wait to see what is in store for Sadie in the future.
This is a connected standalone in the Hatley Family series with a HEA and a bonus epilogue.
"It wasn't the words that changed me, darlin'. It was you."
After finding a small, haunted girl hiding at the scene of a brutal murder associated with the Lovato Cartel and realizing that this child may be the break in the case she's devoted her career to working , NSA agent Gia Kent vows to protect the child from whoever killed her mother. Finding out that said child is also the child of the man she has trouble forgetting complicates matters. Ryder Hatley is a somewhat grumpy, heartbroken man who has emotionally closed himself off to protect him after his fiance lost their baby and left him, stealing family money when she left. He's let himself reconsider relationships only once with Gia, but then he found her snooping in his family's ranch office and swore he'd never do it again. When she shows up with a child he thought didn't exist, both Ryder and Gia must reevaluate everything they thought they wanted in life.
Once again L.J. Evans has woven together a romantic suspense novel that draws you in and plays with your emotions. The slow burn chemistry is fantastic, creating a sense of anticipation and realistic connection, not only between the characters, but also for the reader. Watching the relationship between Ryder and Gia develop and mature was fantastic and the way they care for and protect Addy just warms the heart. It was great to see how Ryder doesn't try to change Gia, allowing her to be who she is and respecting that she has skills that he does not, but also offering her comfort and quiet support. If you are a fan of L.J. Evans, you will recognize Gia as the sister of Holden from Cherry Brandy. The Hatley family is so warm and loving that I just want to be adopted by them! I can't wait to see what is in store for Sadie in the future.
This is a connected standalone in the Hatley Family series with a HEA and a bonus epilogue.
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