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Love Always, Isa
I fell in love with my best friend’s brother. A fugitive accused of horrible crimes he didn’t commit.
We were supposed to run away together, but instead, I ended up running from him. Two pink lines was all it took for me to give everything up. Everything, including my two best friends and the only man I have ever loved. I did what I had to do to ensure my daughter could live a worry-free life.
For thirteen years, I managed to keep her father’s identity a secret.
That all changes when I meet her favorite teacher at the summer program she’s attending.
We were supposed to run away together, but instead, I ended up running from him. Two pink lines was all it took for me to give everything up. Everything, including my two best friends and the only man I have ever loved. I did what I had to do to ensure my daughter could live a worry-free life.
For thirteen years, I managed to keep her father’s identity a secret.
That all changes when I meet her favorite teacher at the summer program she’s attending.
184 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 23, 2024
2 people are currently reading
24 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews
August 14, 2024
Ohhh my goodness!! This book was everything 🙌 I was literally hooked from the. prologue. From there, I couldn't put it down, and I devoured it. There were so many emotions in this story. I was on the edge of my seat to see what happened next. I felt so bad for both "Isa" and "Adam". The writing style was very easy to follow and everything flowed together nicely. I loved the ending, but I was shook at the end 🤣 I can't say much more without spoiling anything. This was definitely a page-turner and I highly recommend giving this book a try if you love romances.
August 31, 2024
I LOVED this book! This book is so good and to be a debut?! Give me more! When the FMC finds out she’s pregnant, she runs. She’s forced to leave the love of her life to protect her child. Years later, he’s their daughter’s teacher. It’s beautiful and heart wrenching. It’s hopeful and fun. Layla had me on the edge of my seat till the very last page! I am soooooooooo glad we will be getting a book 2!! I NEED Matt and Free’s story!!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 24, 2024
ARC Review!
Y’all this book was everything!
Layla definitely found the way to my heart! This was a slow burn so make sure you mentally prepare but it was everything. The store was absolutely beautiful. Alex and Marissa have that one in a lifetime kinda love that is completely undeniable, but when the unexpected happens Marissa is forced to make a split second decision it could change everything. Yall have got to read this beautiful story and fall in love with Isa and Alex the way I do! I cannot wait to read the rest of this series!
Thank you for such a phenomenal story and the early read!
Y’all this book was everything!
Layla definitely found the way to my heart! This was a slow burn so make sure you mentally prepare but it was everything. The store was absolutely beautiful. Alex and Marissa have that one in a lifetime kinda love that is completely undeniable, but when the unexpected happens Marissa is forced to make a split second decision it could change everything. Yall have got to read this beautiful story and fall in love with Isa and Alex the way I do! I cannot wait to read the rest of this series!
Thank you for such a phenomenal story and the early read!
October 20, 2025
This had sooo much potential. The premise and the plot line were there but it was ultimately too short and the dialogue was a little cringey at times. I hope she’ll rewrite this and expand the scenes and timeline into a full book
August 23, 2024
Interesting story ! It’s a quick read, but a good one . Layla was able to really develop the charachters in a short time… yet it didn’t feel rushed ! I’m a sucker for a second chance romance and i really enjoyed this one !
August 28, 2024
Well I didn’t see THAT ending coming!! I was completely shocked at that. I thought the dual Point Of view was great. I especially like the way the places mentioned in the book I could actually visualise which is unusual for me. I really liked how wholesome this book made me feel whilst reading I could feel my emotions going all over the place. Overall I think this was such a good book. Definitely recommend.
August 24, 2024
Layla Ravens' debut novel "Love Always, Isa" is a heartwarming and emotional story that left me smiling or even giggling, swooning, and occasionally wiping away a tear or two. This slow-burn romance shows us that love can overcome any obstacle and that the path to redemption is a two-way street.
If you’re a fan of slow-burn romance, you’ll appreciate the way Layla Ravens crafts the tension between our protagonists, letting them work through the turnoil of emotions caused by years of separation, secrets and betrayal. We get to watch their spark rekindle slowly while Isa's little secret becomes both their first priority.
We are also introduced to more colorful characters and we get to enjoy glimpses of their stories when they get their own moment to shine in upcoming books of the Eternal Heart Series.
"Love Always, Isa" is a beautifully written slow-burn romance that is an absolute delight to read. The emotional tension between the protagonists kept me at the edge of my seat. The world and characters crafted in this story are an absolute delight. And the themes of second chances and the importance of family —both the one you're born into and the one you create — are absolutely heart-warming.
While the entire book was an absolute page-turner, the ending had me absolutely surprised and giddy with joy.
I cannot wait to read what these characters are up to next!
If you’re a fan of slow-burn romance, you’ll appreciate the way Layla Ravens crafts the tension between our protagonists, letting them work through the turnoil of emotions caused by years of separation, secrets and betrayal. We get to watch their spark rekindle slowly while Isa's little secret becomes both their first priority.
We are also introduced to more colorful characters and we get to enjoy glimpses of their stories when they get their own moment to shine in upcoming books of the Eternal Heart Series.
"Love Always, Isa" is a beautifully written slow-burn romance that is an absolute delight to read. The emotional tension between the protagonists kept me at the edge of my seat. The world and characters crafted in this story are an absolute delight. And the themes of second chances and the importance of family —both the one you're born into and the one you create — are absolutely heart-warming.
While the entire book was an absolute page-turner, the ending had me absolutely surprised and giddy with joy.
I cannot wait to read what these characters are up to next!
August 24, 2024
Love Always, Isa was a lot of nostalgia for me. Like Isa (Marissa), I spent time in chat rooms as a teen and young adult. Making Alex/Adam a white hat hacker on the run from the law for a crime he didn't commit - if that's a trope, Layla totally got me with it.
These two met when they were young and Adam was hiding out (that pesky crime thing) and when Marissa finds out she's pregnant, she runs - using all the skills he taught her to disappear. Thirteen years later, her daughter Grace is the catalyst for their reunion when she attends a summer program for computer programming. Of course, Adam is one of the teachers.
I really appreciated their reunion wasn't instant forgiveness - on anyone's part - and it felt like both of them had to earn the trust and respect of the other again. There were some twists, turns, and bumpy bumps along the way.
I loved these characters, the espresso shot of nostalgia, and the indirect path these two took to their HEA. I was very impressed with Layla's debut novel and look forward to seeing what she comes up with next! I read an advance copy of this book.
These two met when they were young and Adam was hiding out (that pesky crime thing) and when Marissa finds out she's pregnant, she runs - using all the skills he taught her to disappear. Thirteen years later, her daughter Grace is the catalyst for their reunion when she attends a summer program for computer programming. Of course, Adam is one of the teachers.
I really appreciated their reunion wasn't instant forgiveness - on anyone's part - and it felt like both of them had to earn the trust and respect of the other again. There were some twists, turns, and bumpy bumps along the way.
I loved these characters, the espresso shot of nostalgia, and the indirect path these two took to their HEA. I was very impressed with Layla's debut novel and look forward to seeing what she comes up with next! I read an advance copy of this book.
August 23, 2024
This book drew me in from the first page. Isa (Marissa) and Alex (Adam) are fascinating characters that I instantly liked and couldn’t wait to see get their happily ever after. A surprise pregnancy forced Isa to make some decisions that protected her baby, but basically cut off all avenues to Adam and his family. Neither had given their real names during their brief time together, so any chance of finding each other or communicating at a later date were next to impossible. Fast forward thirteen years later, twelve year old Grace is the catalyst to reuniting her parents.
The tumultuous emotions, regrets and recriminations between these two characters in no way detracts from the fact that they never forgot about each other and the love they shared then, is still very much between them. The mutual love for their daughter is also a powerful connection between them. Their story is deftly written, insight and captivating. I enjoyed reading this book very much and look forward to reading more books written by this new author.
I will happily recommend this very engaging book.
The tumultuous emotions, regrets and recriminations between these two characters in no way detracts from the fact that they never forgot about each other and the love they shared then, is still very much between them. The mutual love for their daughter is also a powerful connection between them. Their story is deftly written, insight and captivating. I enjoyed reading this book very much and look forward to reading more books written by this new author.
I will happily recommend this very engaging book.
August 27, 2024
This was a super lighthearted, easy read about second chances.
In this story, we see how Isa falls pregnant, and she decides to leave behind her current life, friends and the father of her baby in order to protect her child from the lifestyle that staying with them would bring her. Years later, Marissa meets Grace's dad, again, by chance, and after talking everything out, they decide to give each other another chance.
One of the things I really liked about the story was the concept of friendship and how our decisions affect not only our partners and family but also our friends.
The story had a lot of potential, but everything happened so fast that it felt like there was no real character development. Taking into consideration that this is this author's first novel, I am curious to see how her skills develop in the future.
Quote: “No, Alex, nobody. Nobody has ever even come close to replacing you.”
In this story, we see how Isa falls pregnant, and she decides to leave behind her current life, friends and the father of her baby in order to protect her child from the lifestyle that staying with them would bring her. Years later, Marissa meets Grace's dad, again, by chance, and after talking everything out, they decide to give each other another chance.
One of the things I really liked about the story was the concept of friendship and how our decisions affect not only our partners and family but also our friends.
The story had a lot of potential, but everything happened so fast that it felt like there was no real character development. Taking into consideration that this is this author's first novel, I am curious to see how her skills develop in the future.
Quote: “No, Alex, nobody. Nobody has ever even come close to replacing you.”
August 29, 2024
Alex and Marissa's story was one I was not expecting, though I read this as an ARC, I went in completely blind. With a story of double secret identity (both sides), secret baby, second chance with first love, all of it had me in a chokehold the entire way through.
These two had a whirlwind start and loved each other from the moment they laid eyes on one another, though they were long distance, they got to spend an amazing week together and then Marissa disappeared in order to protect herself and her future.
Almost 13 years later they come face to face again when Marissa's daughter is placed in Alex's class for a summer computer program. At first these two butt heads but then they call a truce for the sake of their daughter and "family", they move forward and they reminisce, eventually they realize how much the other has grown over the years. Eventually they end up confessing that they never got over each other and commit to each other entirely once again, it takes us a bit to get there, but in the end it comes together beautifully and they have the family that was meant to be all along.
I loved this book and the journey it takes you on from the beginning. Such a beautiful story.
These two had a whirlwind start and loved each other from the moment they laid eyes on one another, though they were long distance, they got to spend an amazing week together and then Marissa disappeared in order to protect herself and her future.
Almost 13 years later they come face to face again when Marissa's daughter is placed in Alex's class for a summer computer program. At first these two butt heads but then they call a truce for the sake of their daughter and "family", they move forward and they reminisce, eventually they realize how much the other has grown over the years. Eventually they end up confessing that they never got over each other and commit to each other entirely once again, it takes us a bit to get there, but in the end it comes together beautifully and they have the family that was meant to be all along.
I loved this book and the journey it takes you on from the beginning. Such a beautiful story.
August 12, 2024
To preface, I think this rates around a 4.5 out of 5 stars but I prefer to give it the full 5 like other books I’ve rated 4.5 and rounded up to 5.
Okay. Now on to the story. This is reminiscent of the Wattpad stories I used to read as a teen but with more adult topics (i.e. on page sex). It has really beautifully built characters and a unique story idea that was, in my opinion, executed extremely well. I love Isa / Marissa and her strength for her child as well as the kiddo and her adorable antics. The romance in this was one of my favorites, I’m a sucker for “trying not to show it” love tropes and stories. I think this is a beautiful read and I love this author’s writing style. Grateful to have read this ebook! Definitely want to re read it again in the future.
Okay. Now on to the story. This is reminiscent of the Wattpad stories I used to read as a teen but with more adult topics (i.e. on page sex). It has really beautifully built characters and a unique story idea that was, in my opinion, executed extremely well. I love Isa / Marissa and her strength for her child as well as the kiddo and her adorable antics. The romance in this was one of my favorites, I’m a sucker for “trying not to show it” love tropes and stories. I think this is a beautiful read and I love this author’s writing style. Grateful to have read this ebook! Definitely want to re read it again in the future.
August 23, 2024
ARC Review! This was a good quick read that kept me turning the page. This story had hard choices, selfless acts, a mother’s love for her daughter, making the right but hard choices and second chances at love. As a debut novel, it was very well done! It definitely left me wanting more and can’t wait to see the other characters in the book get their own stories.
When Marissa finds out she’s pregnant, she has to make the hard choice to leave the man she loves or risk her and her babies lives as fugitives. When she makes the choice to run and protect her daughter, she leaves everything she’s ever known behind. Many years down the line fate steps in and she gets a second chance with the only man she’s ever loved.
When Marissa finds out she’s pregnant, she has to make the hard choice to leave the man she loves or risk her and her babies lives as fugitives. When she makes the choice to run and protect her daughter, she leaves everything she’s ever known behind. Many years down the line fate steps in and she gets a second chance with the only man she’s ever loved.
August 15, 2024
Oh my! This book was so much fun to read! Baby spice levels but what a great debut novel!
Alex and Marissa find their way back to each other in such a unique way! I loved it!
The book is short, the story is sweet with some spicy scenes peppered in and ends on a beautiful note!
I am so happy to see that Freedom and Matt get a story of their own! Dom and Amanda though is going to be interesting as he’s a bad boy and a player, she is a red flag chaser that hasn’t settled down with anyone since her sons father and her ended their sham of a relationship when he was a child. They will be fun in a different way
Alex and Marissa find their way back to each other in such a unique way! I loved it!
The book is short, the story is sweet with some spicy scenes peppered in and ends on a beautiful note!
I am so happy to see that Freedom and Matt get a story of their own! Dom and Amanda though is going to be interesting as he’s a bad boy and a player, she is a red flag chaser that hasn’t settled down with anyone since her sons father and her ended their sham of a relationship when he was a child. They will be fun in a different way
September 1, 2024
3 1/2 stars
This is a quick and easy read, perfect for the pool. It has great structure even though the writing is a bit simple and choppy. Still it kept me engaged and curious about what was coming next. Alex and Marissa show very real emotions and reactions to their circumstances. Even though they still try to do what is best they work together to support the others relationship with their daughter. I love the real look at what forgiveness looks like for different people as well as yourself. It’s a beautiful sweet story and well done for a debut novel. Can’t wait to see what’s next in this world. Looking for a good quick summer read then run away with Isa and Alex.
This is a quick and easy read, perfect for the pool. It has great structure even though the writing is a bit simple and choppy. Still it kept me engaged and curious about what was coming next. Alex and Marissa show very real emotions and reactions to their circumstances. Even though they still try to do what is best they work together to support the others relationship with their daughter. I love the real look at what forgiveness looks like for different people as well as yourself. It’s a beautiful sweet story and well done for a debut novel. Can’t wait to see what’s next in this world. Looking for a good quick summer read then run away with Isa and Alex.
August 12, 2024
Loved this book! Amazing story line that is relatable to a single mother having to do what is best for her child! I fell in love with the characters of this book & am impatiently waiting for the next!
The ending took a twist I wasn’t prepared for, but Layla kept me hooked and on the edge of my seat!
The ending took a twist I wasn’t prepared for, but Layla kept me hooked and on the edge of my seat!
August 23, 2024
I thought this book was a great palate refresher. It was a quick and easy read that had me feeling the feels and rooting for the main characters. There was minimal spice in it. I'd say this is a true sweet romance book - like a Hallmark movie. I would continue the series when the other books release.
I was not a fan of the ending and would have rather seen the overall result happen, but in a different way. I'm being vague so I don't have any spoilers in my review. I received an Advanced Reader Copy of the book in exchange for leaving a review with my honest opinion about it on the release date.
I was not a fan of the ending and would have rather seen the overall result happen, but in a different way. I'm being vague so I don't have any spoilers in my review. I received an Advanced Reader Copy of the book in exchange for leaving a review with my honest opinion about it on the release date.
August 22, 2024
Just finished Love Always, Isa by Layla Ravens and wow, what a ride! This steamy romance had me hooked from page one with its perfect mix of tropes - found family, second chance, best friend’s brother, slow burn, and more! Layla Ravens’s writing truly transports you into the story, making you feel every emotion alongside the characters. Laughed, cried, and never wanted it to end!
August 25, 2024
OMGGG THIS BOOK IS AMAZING!!!! I love love this book so much. The romance the characters the plot the EVERYTHING is so great. The writing style was so easy to read and the pace of the book wasn’t too fast or too slow. Everything about this book is just nice. If you don’t want to read something too heavy and just want a romance book, this is definitely for you!!
August 30, 2024
I got the pleasure of reading this book in advanced and thoroughly enjoyed this debut novel.
I took this book with me on vacation and I swear people watched me have ALL the emotions in the pool deck. This book had me hooked from the beginning and I can not wait for the next book. I need the next one NOW 💛
I took this book with me on vacation and I swear people watched me have ALL the emotions in the pool deck. This book had me hooked from the beginning and I can not wait for the next book. I need the next one NOW 💛
October 21, 2025
I thought it was a sweet debut with a lot of potential. The story pulled me in right away, but everything happened so fast that it lost a bit of emotional depth. I wish there had been fewer time skips and more focus on character development, because the setup really had room to shine. Still, it’s an easy, enjoyable read, and I’m curious to see how Layla’s writing grows in future books.
August 13, 2024
This was a quick and easy read but it lacked a lot of depth.
The plot didn’t feel very established and the characters lacked substance.
The story had a lot of premise but it didn’t deliver.
✨ I received this book in exchange for an honest review ✨
The plot didn’t feel very established and the characters lacked substance.
The story had a lot of premise but it didn’t deliver.
✨ I received this book in exchange for an honest review ✨
August 24, 2024
Loved it!
I really enjoyed this book. Adam and Isa's story was beautifully written and maflde my heart smile. I can't wait for the next story in the series! I am invested in the supporting characters now! I also hope there will be more about Adam and Isa!
I really enjoyed this book. Adam and Isa's story was beautifully written and maflde my heart smile. I can't wait for the next story in the series! I am invested in the supporting characters now! I also hope there will be more about Adam and Isa!
September 9, 2024
I didn't think I was going to like this one at first because hidden pregnancy/hidden child is not something I typically enjoy. Luckily that's not the main focus of the story and there's no dragging it out and dancing around the truth forever. I'm looking forward to the next one.
August 24, 2024
ARC REVIEW! I really like how the book got right into meeting the characters. It also carried a good flow as the story was told. It’s a page turner I just kept wanting to see what would happen next. I feel it was relatable especially having a baby at a young age and wanting nothing more than to protect her. Imagining finding love at first sight and something breaks your heart. It’s really indescribable the things we will do for our kiddos. I felt deeply for Grace, understood Isa and empathize with Adam. Amanda was just a straightforward ball of real lol. This book is the perfect small town romance and just a breath of fresh air. Read it!
August 25, 2024
An interesting story, perfect for when you need to recover from heavier reads.
August 30, 2024
3/5 ⭐️
✨️ Check TW
✨️ Second Change Romance
✨️ Hidden identity
✨️ Secret Child
✨️ Single Mom
✨️ Short & Faced Paced
✨️ Found Family
✨️ Check TW
✨️ Second Change Romance
✨️ Hidden identity
✨️ Secret Child
✨️ Single Mom
✨️ Short & Faced Paced
✨️ Found Family
August 23, 2024
What a journey this is. Love Always, Isla by Layla Ravens is a beautiful story of difficult choices, love, and chances.
Ravens writes loveable characters and a relatable plot. It is an excellent read to get lost into.
Ravens writes loveable characters and a relatable plot. It is an excellent read to get lost into.
July 8, 2025
Layla knocked this out the part. Isa and Adam's relationship is a slow build as they work through the tension and betray of years of being apart. This is not my normal style of books I adore but it is one I always reread between for that just good feeling love that pulls on your heart strings in the best way possible. I can't wait to see what characters are next.
Displaying 1 - 29 of 29 reviews