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The Seal’s Promise
He never expected to return to his hometown, but now he can’t leave her behind again.
Dr. Dalton Hart left his small Southern beach town fifteen years ago to become a Navy SEAL. Now he’s back, and Sandy Point is buzzing over his return. He thought he came home to help his family, but his oldest brother will barely speak to him and his childhood friend is trying to avoid him. Worse, if he wants to stay, he’ll have to face the secret that’s haunted him ever since he left.
Brooke Garcia can’t believe this ripped, blue-eyed SEAL is back in her life or that she’s stuck working with him. She’s no stranger to smooth-talking hometown heroes—she married one, and he broke her heart. Now a single mom, she doesn’t have time to indulge in walks down memory lane. Brooke never forgave Dalton for the way he left town without even saying good-bye, and she’s not interested in making amends.
But soul mates have a way of finding you…even when you’re not ready.
A small-town reunion romance.
Dr. Dalton Hart left his small Southern beach town fifteen years ago to become a Navy SEAL. Now he’s back, and Sandy Point is buzzing over his return. He thought he came home to help his family, but his oldest brother will barely speak to him and his childhood friend is trying to avoid him. Worse, if he wants to stay, he’ll have to face the secret that’s haunted him ever since he left.
Brooke Garcia can’t believe this ripped, blue-eyed SEAL is back in her life or that she’s stuck working with him. She’s no stranger to smooth-talking hometown heroes—she married one, and he broke her heart. Now a single mom, she doesn’t have time to indulge in walks down memory lane. Brooke never forgave Dalton for the way he left town without even saying good-bye, and she’s not interested in making amends.
But soul mates have a way of finding you…even when you’re not ready.
A small-town reunion romance.
298 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 22, 2025
15 people are currently reading
1638 people want to read
About the author
Stella Holt
13 books102 followersAuthor of your next binge-worthy contemporary romance series, featuring hot alpha heroes and the ambitious women they fall for.
Series Alert:
Small-town steamy in The Southern Hart Brothers series. Follow these four brothers as they uncover family secrets, and fight for love.
Big city swoon in The Legacy of the Maguires series featuring a family of siblings, and six steamy workplace romances.
Each book can be read as a standalone, but you won't want to miss one page of these heartwarming families, all the banter, and steamy romance.
Want to get to know Stella? Most days Stella can be found drinking too much coffee, collecting lipstick she forgets to wear, and baking. Connect with her on socials!
https://www.instagram.com/stellaholtb...
https://www.tiktok.com/@stellaholtbooks
Series Alert:
Small-town steamy in The Southern Hart Brothers series. Follow these four brothers as they uncover family secrets, and fight for love.
Big city swoon in The Legacy of the Maguires series featuring a family of siblings, and six steamy workplace romances.
Each book can be read as a standalone, but you won't want to miss one page of these heartwarming families, all the banter, and steamy romance.
Want to get to know Stella? Most days Stella can be found drinking too much coffee, collecting lipstick she forgets to wear, and baking. Connect with her on socials!
https://www.instagram.com/stellaholtb...
https://www.tiktok.com/@stellaholtbooks
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 50 reviews
May 27, 2025
A fabulous start to a new series, this one is moving, sensual and getting to know Dr. Dalton Hart, Brooke Garcia and Max was so good, come along and meet them all you will not be disappointed.
Dalton left the small southern beach town of Sandy Point fifteen years ago to become a navy Seal, he left just after his parents were killed in a car accident, guilt had kept him away but now his grandmother Barbara Hart needs him home to help with her health issues and the family estate, he plans on staying just for the summer to help his brother Wes and then get out of town but he catches up with Brooke Garcia a very good friend from his past but she is divorced now and has a seven year old son.
Brooke never thought that her high school crush would return to town and after what she has been through, a new relationship is not what she is looking for she has enough problems with her ex, but you can’t help the pull and chemistry that is there and soon they are having a very sensual fling, but she is determined that it will not go any further.
When cupid throws an arrow they stick and soon Dalton is stepping up to the plate not only with her son. Max but with her as well and Dalton has talked to his brother and staying in Sandy Point is what he wants and not only that but he wants Brooke and Max.
I beautifully written romance one that had me turning the pages and it is one that I highly recommend.
My thanks to Tule Publishing for my digital copy to read and review.
Dalton left the small southern beach town of Sandy Point fifteen years ago to become a navy Seal, he left just after his parents were killed in a car accident, guilt had kept him away but now his grandmother Barbara Hart needs him home to help with her health issues and the family estate, he plans on staying just for the summer to help his brother Wes and then get out of town but he catches up with Brooke Garcia a very good friend from his past but she is divorced now and has a seven year old son.
Brooke never thought that her high school crush would return to town and after what she has been through, a new relationship is not what she is looking for she has enough problems with her ex, but you can’t help the pull and chemistry that is there and soon they are having a very sensual fling, but she is determined that it will not go any further.
When cupid throws an arrow they stick and soon Dalton is stepping up to the plate not only with her son. Max but with her as well and Dalton has talked to his brother and staying in Sandy Point is what he wants and not only that but he wants Brooke and Max.
I beautifully written romance one that had me turning the pages and it is one that I highly recommend.
My thanks to Tule Publishing for my digital copy to read and review.
July 17, 2025
love love love 💗
this was the perfect feel good small southern coastal town romance. our two main characters where high school friends turned sweethearts but our male main character Dalton, moved away after something traumatic happened. he is now a navy seal and he is back in the small town of sandy point after 15 years.
brooke is now a single divorced mom to a little boy and is working at the town hospital where dalton comes in with his grandma to get checked out. their encounter stirs up old feelings for them both.
such a cute second chance romance, highly recommend if you’re in the mood for a cute steamy, romance
this was the perfect feel good small southern coastal town romance. our two main characters where high school friends turned sweethearts but our male main character Dalton, moved away after something traumatic happened. he is now a navy seal and he is back in the small town of sandy point after 15 years.
brooke is now a single divorced mom to a little boy and is working at the town hospital where dalton comes in with his grandma to get checked out. their encounter stirs up old feelings for them both.
such a cute second chance romance, highly recommend if you’re in the mood for a cute steamy, romance
August 28, 2025
★★. Brooke had more connection with the ex husbands brother, the mmc’s brother and the other doctors. Her holding onto anger because he left after his parents were killed by a drunk driver because he didn’t say goodbye is actually wild. Like clinically insane. They weren’t even dating. He had no feelings for her and then all of sudden it gets revealed that he did have feelings??? Yeah, I believe that. There was no buildup. Him saying he can’t stay the WHOLE book just for his mind to be changed within minutes.
The most wildest part was her sending her kid off to get laid. Specifically, asked her parents or sister to watch him to get laid. I get it a girl has needs, but baby. You are in a custody fight with your rich nasty ex and you are prioritizing your libido over that…we need to reevaluate.
2 stars primarily for Max, the little boy. He at least acted like a child yet was a plot point to bring together Dalton and Brooke.
For my safety readers, safe. Other man drama with the ex.
The most wildest part was her sending her kid off to get laid. Specifically, asked her parents or sister to watch him to get laid. I get it a girl has needs, but baby. You are in a custody fight with your rich nasty ex and you are prioritizing your libido over that…we need to reevaluate.
2 stars primarily for Max, the little boy. He at least acted like a child yet was a plot point to bring together Dalton and Brooke.
For my safety readers, safe. Other man drama with the ex.
May 14, 2025
Dalton has come home after fifteen years away. After his parents died he hid a secret and left for the Navy. He qualified as a doctor and was working away but his grandmother pretended she was really ill to persuade him to come home!
He bumps into Brooke, who he was friendly with when he was at school but he left her too. Turns out she's a nurse and the administrator at the hospital, and has a young son.
Max, her son, plays baseball and Dalton acts as the team doctor and starts getting very friendly with Brooke, he can't decide if he's staying or not, but he has these feelings but isn't sure what they are.
Brooke has had feelings for Dalton for a long time, but she's hiding them as she's unsure how long Dalton will be staying and she's worried that Max will get too close to him and then be really upset when Dalton leaves again.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
An entertaining read from Stella.
He bumps into Brooke, who he was friendly with when he was at school but he left her too. Turns out she's a nurse and the administrator at the hospital, and has a young son.
Max, her son, plays baseball and Dalton acts as the team doctor and starts getting very friendly with Brooke, he can't decide if he's staying or not, but he has these feelings but isn't sure what they are.
Brooke has had feelings for Dalton for a long time, but she's hiding them as she's unsure how long Dalton will be staying and she's worried that Max will get too close to him and then be really upset when Dalton leaves again.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
An entertaining read from Stella.
May 10, 2025
Fabulous:
This was an enjoyable contemporary romance which flowed well and kept my attention throughout. It was emotional and had drama, but it wasn't excessive and was balanced well with good dialogue and a sweet romance. I thought Dalton and Brooke made a cute couple and it was fun watching them reconnect. I also really loved young Max and the joy that he added to the story.
I now eagerly await the next book in the series! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
This was an enjoyable contemporary romance which flowed well and kept my attention throughout. It was emotional and had drama, but it wasn't excessive and was balanced well with good dialogue and a sweet romance. I thought Dalton and Brooke made a cute couple and it was fun watching them reconnect. I also really loved young Max and the joy that he added to the story.
I now eagerly await the next book in the series! I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 20, 2025
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book, given to me by Tule Publishing via BookFunnel. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
An incredibly sweet romance about a childhood crush turning into mature love, “The Seal’s Promise”, by Stella Holt, features two strong, caring and very likeable leads.
I liked Dalton and Brooke’s history and their present relationship, mixed with what adulthood brought into their lives, families, responsability, happinness and sorrow.
I also appreciated the tenderness, caring and protectiveness, the shared memories and people, in the romance and relationship.
Dalton’s hotness level, accentuated often, doesn’t mean, as so frequently happens, lack of substance or sensitivity. In fact, the hero is sort of perfect, blending handsomeness with being a kindhearted person, a physician and a former SEAL, all factors of attractivity.
He´s also struggling with emotional pain, a long-lasting, misguided guilt related to a family tragedy, which gives the hero that touch of vulnerability readers usually love.
Brooke is also a great character: the bookworm who turned into a beautiful, accomplished woman and mom.
I liked the familial relationships and the small-town setting.
There are interesting secondary characters, who, I guess, will be promising lead characters in future stories.
An incredibly sweet romance about a childhood crush turning into mature love, “The Seal’s Promise”, by Stella Holt, features two strong, caring and very likeable leads.
I liked Dalton and Brooke’s history and their present relationship, mixed with what adulthood brought into their lives, families, responsability, happinness and sorrow.
I also appreciated the tenderness, caring and protectiveness, the shared memories and people, in the romance and relationship.
Dalton’s hotness level, accentuated often, doesn’t mean, as so frequently happens, lack of substance or sensitivity. In fact, the hero is sort of perfect, blending handsomeness with being a kindhearted person, a physician and a former SEAL, all factors of attractivity.
He´s also struggling with emotional pain, a long-lasting, misguided guilt related to a family tragedy, which gives the hero that touch of vulnerability readers usually love.
Brooke is also a great character: the bookworm who turned into a beautiful, accomplished woman and mom.
I liked the familial relationships and the small-town setting.
There are interesting secondary characters, who, I guess, will be promising lead characters in future stories.
May 30, 2025
I live in a small town, and I really wish many of the young people who leave after they finish school would come back to town in the manner of small town romance.
Dalton Hart ran from Sandy Point after the death of his parent's in a car accident. He planned to join the navy, a point of conflict with his father which left Dalton with unresolved issues after the accident. Now he's come home to help out his brother Wes to sort out some issues from their grandmother's seemingly failing health.
One of the first people he runs into is his friend from school, Brooke Garcia. Brooke is now a divorcee with a son who is a keen baseball player in the local little league.
They were never in a relationship as such, but Brooke may have had hopes which were never realised as Dalton didn't return until fifteen years had passed.
Dalton trained as an emergency room doctor and Brooke works at the hospital so this story had doctor nurse romance vibes at times, although not with the level of medical detail seen in dedicated medical romance.
Instead we see lots of interactions in the community, especially with Max, Brooke's adorable son.
It looks at first like another man might be interested in Brooke, as her brother in law is a determined part of Max and her lives. Her husband was an entitled selfish (words deleted to prevent this review being banned).
Both Brooke and Dalton's lives are complicated at the moment so they both acknowledge that anything serious isn't on, despite the strong attraction.
There are intimate open door scenes with the couple but the majority of the story is about them reconnecting in the midst of other complications.
The ending was satisfying and I look forward to further books in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Dalton Hart ran from Sandy Point after the death of his parent's in a car accident. He planned to join the navy, a point of conflict with his father which left Dalton with unresolved issues after the accident. Now he's come home to help out his brother Wes to sort out some issues from their grandmother's seemingly failing health.
One of the first people he runs into is his friend from school, Brooke Garcia. Brooke is now a divorcee with a son who is a keen baseball player in the local little league.
They were never in a relationship as such, but Brooke may have had hopes which were never realised as Dalton didn't return until fifteen years had passed.
Dalton trained as an emergency room doctor and Brooke works at the hospital so this story had doctor nurse romance vibes at times, although not with the level of medical detail seen in dedicated medical romance.
Instead we see lots of interactions in the community, especially with Max, Brooke's adorable son.
It looks at first like another man might be interested in Brooke, as her brother in law is a determined part of Max and her lives. Her husband was an entitled selfish (words deleted to prevent this review being banned).
Both Brooke and Dalton's lives are complicated at the moment so they both acknowledge that anything serious isn't on, despite the strong attraction.
There are intimate open door scenes with the couple but the majority of the story is about them reconnecting in the midst of other complications.
The ending was satisfying and I look forward to further books in this series.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 22, 2025
While there is a lot to like about this story, there were also things that didn’t sit right. I’ll start with the good.
The overall premise is a good one. I liked both Dalton and Brooke, and even Brooke’s son Max. (Kids don’t always work well in books, but Max does.) I may not have felt flames leaping off the page between this couple, but there was a connection. They brought each other a sort of peace, and I loved that. Overall, the romance in this story is spot on.
This story could work well for you if you are a fan of low-stakes that feel like high-stakes. The reason Dalton left town and never came back isn’t something I felt was as big of a deal as he made it out to be. I kept thinking there must be more to it, but there’s not. That didn’t bother me. What bothered me was the wishy-washy way Dalton’s intentions were handled. At the beginning of the book, it seems as if he’s back in town to stay. Why else would he permanently leave his job and give up his house? Throughout the story it seemed Dalton would act like he was there temporarily with one person, and question why nobody trusted him to stick around with another person. It was confusing and made me think it wasn’t intentional but a mistake missed in editing. As the reader, I felt I couldn’t trust Dalton, yet I didn’t feel this was supposed to be the case.
I’m a stickler for timeline issues because my brain latches onto them, and there are a few slips in this book. I’m sure that’s not something everyone would notice, but it stood out more because of the issues of Dalton staying or going, so I felt it was worth mentioning.
The setting of this story and the set-up of future stories kept me engaged and piqued my curiosity enough that I will most likely read the next book. Plus, it left me with an overall happy and contented feeling. That’s always a wonderful thing.
**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely.**
The overall premise is a good one. I liked both Dalton and Brooke, and even Brooke’s son Max. (Kids don’t always work well in books, but Max does.) I may not have felt flames leaping off the page between this couple, but there was a connection. They brought each other a sort of peace, and I loved that. Overall, the romance in this story is spot on.
This story could work well for you if you are a fan of low-stakes that feel like high-stakes. The reason Dalton left town and never came back isn’t something I felt was as big of a deal as he made it out to be. I kept thinking there must be more to it, but there’s not. That didn’t bother me. What bothered me was the wishy-washy way Dalton’s intentions were handled. At the beginning of the book, it seems as if he’s back in town to stay. Why else would he permanently leave his job and give up his house? Throughout the story it seemed Dalton would act like he was there temporarily with one person, and question why nobody trusted him to stick around with another person. It was confusing and made me think it wasn’t intentional but a mistake missed in editing. As the reader, I felt I couldn’t trust Dalton, yet I didn’t feel this was supposed to be the case.
I’m a stickler for timeline issues because my brain latches onto them, and there are a few slips in this book. I’m sure that’s not something everyone would notice, but it stood out more because of the issues of Dalton staying or going, so I felt it was worth mentioning.
The setting of this story and the set-up of future stories kept me engaged and piqued my curiosity enough that I will most likely read the next book. Plus, it left me with an overall happy and contented feeling. That’s always a wonderful thing.
**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely.**
May 24, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Emotional, Heartwarming, and Packed with Second-Chance Chemistry
The SEAL’s Promise is a touching small-town romance that balances emotional depth with swoony second-chance sparks. Stella Holt brings together two wounded hearts—one a decorated Navy SEAL, the other a strong single mother—and crafts a story full of tension, forgiveness, and long-buried truths.
Dalton is everything you want in a hero: protective, loyal, and quietly struggling with guilt over a secret that’s been eating away at him for years. Watching him return home to a town that both welcomes and resents him is gripping—and the emotional weight he carries is palpable.
Brooke is a standout heroine. She’s fiercely independent, juggling motherhood and a complicated past, all while keeping her heart on lockdown. Her refusal to immediately fall for Dalton again makes their slow-burn reconnection all the more satisfying.
What makes this book shine:
• Second-chance romance with real emotional stakes
• A tough yet tender hero coming to terms with his past
• A resilient, relatable heroine who refuses to be anyone’s second choice
• Family dynamics that add richness to the story
• A beautifully written Southern beach town setting you’ll want to escape to
This is more than just a romance—it’s about healing, growth, and realizing that sometimes, the person who hurt you is also the only one who can make you whole again.
If you’re a fan of heartfelt, small-town stories with military heroes and a touch of unresolved pasts, The SEAL’s Promise delivers all the feels.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Emotional, Heartwarming, and Packed with Second-Chance Chemistry
The SEAL’s Promise is a touching small-town romance that balances emotional depth with swoony second-chance sparks. Stella Holt brings together two wounded hearts—one a decorated Navy SEAL, the other a strong single mother—and crafts a story full of tension, forgiveness, and long-buried truths.
Dalton is everything you want in a hero: protective, loyal, and quietly struggling with guilt over a secret that’s been eating away at him for years. Watching him return home to a town that both welcomes and resents him is gripping—and the emotional weight he carries is palpable.
Brooke is a standout heroine. She’s fiercely independent, juggling motherhood and a complicated past, all while keeping her heart on lockdown. Her refusal to immediately fall for Dalton again makes their slow-burn reconnection all the more satisfying.
What makes this book shine:
• Second-chance romance with real emotional stakes
• A tough yet tender hero coming to terms with his past
• A resilient, relatable heroine who refuses to be anyone’s second choice
• Family dynamics that add richness to the story
• A beautifully written Southern beach town setting you’ll want to escape to
This is more than just a romance—it’s about healing, growth, and realizing that sometimes, the person who hurt you is also the only one who can make you whole again.
If you’re a fan of heartfelt, small-town stories with military heroes and a touch of unresolved pasts, The SEAL’s Promise delivers all the feels.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 16, 2025
3.5 stars. Review to come
April 24, 2025
A sweet second chance romance for Dr Dalton and his high school best friend Brooke Garcia. A former seal he returns to his home town concerned about his grandmother’s health providing a second chance for the two.
I’d recommend to anyone who wants a lazy afternoon read of an enjoyable book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I’d recommend to anyone who wants a lazy afternoon read of an enjoyable book.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
April 13, 2025
I voluntarily read an advanced reader’s copy for an honest opinion.
A great start to The Southern Hart Brothers series. I really enjoyed The Seal's Promise by Stella Holt. Right from the first page I hated to put the book down and when I did I couldn't wait to pick it back up again to read more. A storyline of coming back home, family, possible second chance friends to lovers, and so much more. I can't wait to read more books in this series and more by Stella Holt.
A great start to The Southern Hart Brothers series. I really enjoyed The Seal's Promise by Stella Holt. Right from the first page I hated to put the book down and when I did I couldn't wait to pick it back up again to read more. A storyline of coming back home, family, possible second chance friends to lovers, and so much more. I can't wait to read more books in this series and more by Stella Holt.
May 19, 2025
THE SEAL’S PROMISE is the first instalment in Stella Holt’s contemporary, adult THE SOUTHERN HART BROTHERS erotic, romance series focusing on the Hart Brothers -Dalton, Wes and Levi.This is former US Navy SEAL / ER physician Dr. Dalton Hart, and RN /single mother Brooke Garcia’s story line.
Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Dalton and Brooke) THE SEAL’S PROMISE follows the return of US Navy SEAL and ER physician Dr. Dalton Hart, to his home town of Sandy Point, after fifteen years in the service. A call from his beloved grandmother finds Dalton fearing the worst but never expected to come face to face with the woman he once loved. Enter RN and single mother Brooke Garcia. Brooke is a single mother, nurse and administrator of their small town hospital, and a woman who is overwhelmed and struggling with all of the demands. Having been betrayed in the past by two men she thought she had loved, Brooke battles between head and heart with the return of the man who will break her heart.
The world building follows several paths including the rebuilding friendship and relationship between Brooke and Dalton while Dalton comes to terms with the demons from his past,and the realization that all is not as it appeared to be. As Brooke battles her attraction to the man who broke her heart, another battle is about to ensue when Brooke takes control of everything she lost.
The relationship between Brooke and Dalton is one of second chances; a rekindling friendship that struggles in the face of perceived betrayal, and a fight to see the truth. As Dalton begins a slow seduction of our story line heroine, Brooke continues to battle what was and what will never be. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are introduced to Dalton’s brother Deputy Chief Wes Hart, and their grandmother Barb; Brooke’s sister and café owner May; Dr. Tommy, Nurse Steph and desk manager Nora, as well as Brooke’s son Max, her ex Tyler Banks , his brother Miles.
THE SEAL’S PROMISE is a story of betrayal and heart break, family and friendships, relationships and love. The character driven premise is dramatic and entertaining; the romance is seductive and fated;the characters are determined and charismatic.
copy supplied for review
Told from dual omniscient third person perspectives (Dalton and Brooke) THE SEAL’S PROMISE follows the return of US Navy SEAL and ER physician Dr. Dalton Hart, to his home town of Sandy Point, after fifteen years in the service. A call from his beloved grandmother finds Dalton fearing the worst but never expected to come face to face with the woman he once loved. Enter RN and single mother Brooke Garcia. Brooke is a single mother, nurse and administrator of their small town hospital, and a woman who is overwhelmed and struggling with all of the demands. Having been betrayed in the past by two men she thought she had loved, Brooke battles between head and heart with the return of the man who will break her heart.
The world building follows several paths including the rebuilding friendship and relationship between Brooke and Dalton while Dalton comes to terms with the demons from his past,and the realization that all is not as it appeared to be. As Brooke battles her attraction to the man who broke her heart, another battle is about to ensue when Brooke takes control of everything she lost.
The relationship between Brooke and Dalton is one of second chances; a rekindling friendship that struggles in the face of perceived betrayal, and a fight to see the truth. As Dalton begins a slow seduction of our story line heroine, Brooke continues to battle what was and what will never be. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
We are introduced to Dalton’s brother Deputy Chief Wes Hart, and their grandmother Barb; Brooke’s sister and café owner May; Dr. Tommy, Nurse Steph and desk manager Nora, as well as Brooke’s son Max, her ex Tyler Banks , his brother Miles.
THE SEAL’S PROMISE is a story of betrayal and heart break, family and friendships, relationships and love. The character driven premise is dramatic and entertaining; the romance is seductive and fated;the characters are determined and charismatic.
copy supplied for review
April 13, 2025
Dalton Hart left his hometown on the coast near Savannah right after graduating from high school to attend the US Naval Academy. This is also right after his parents are killed in an accident. Dalton leaves behind his two other brothers when he leaves. But he also leaves behind Brooke Garcia. Fast forward a bit over a decade and Dalton has returned back to his hometown. (Thanks to granny intervention.)
Brooke Garcia has not let Dalton Hart leaving cause her to let her life stop. She made the mistake of falling for the proverbial local rich idiot/bully, gotten married to the same proverbial idiot, left him while pregnant, got divorced and started a new life as a single mom. She is now successful running the small local hospital and being a nurse.
Dalton has come back and takes a job temporally at the same local hospital. And sparks fly between Dalton and Brooke. Brooke as a single mother is cautious about letting this sparks ignite since she has to always keep her son's well being in mind. Do these two find a way to let these sparks take hold and build into a lasting love? Is Dalton able to let the ghosts of his past go?
This is a quick read and easy. I normally do not like fiction that switches the POV between characters but this one works for some reason. I did feel that the bonus epilogue wasn't worth downloading though. I expected it to be more than 2 pages even though we finally get to meet Levi the brother alluded to in this book but never "seen."
I did receive a copy of this book in advance from the publisher in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
Brooke Garcia has not let Dalton Hart leaving cause her to let her life stop. She made the mistake of falling for the proverbial local rich idiot/bully, gotten married to the same proverbial idiot, left him while pregnant, got divorced and started a new life as a single mom. She is now successful running the small local hospital and being a nurse.
Dalton has come back and takes a job temporally at the same local hospital. And sparks fly between Dalton and Brooke. Brooke as a single mother is cautious about letting this sparks ignite since she has to always keep her son's well being in mind. Do these two find a way to let these sparks take hold and build into a lasting love? Is Dalton able to let the ghosts of his past go?
This is a quick read and easy. I normally do not like fiction that switches the POV between characters but this one works for some reason. I did feel that the bonus epilogue wasn't worth downloading though. I expected it to be more than 2 pages even though we finally get to meet Levi the brother alluded to in this book but never "seen."
I did receive a copy of this book in advance from the publisher in exchange for a fair and unbiased review.
May 9, 2025
This was a wonderful start to this new series about three adult brothers in Sandy Point.
The oldest Hart sibling, Wes, came back home when their parents were killed in a car accident to take care of his younger brothers. But as soon as they turned 18 , the two boys left .
The middle brother is Dalton Hart, former Navy SEAL and nowadays a physician. He left fifteen years ago because he felt responsible for the death of their parents. Still today, he carries a great deal of guilt and feels that if he reveals his secret, his family will never want to see him again. So his visit to help his grandmother , is only temporary.
Meanwhile, Brooke Garcia, once Dalton’s best friend and the one who secretly had a crush on Dalton, still remembers how heartbroken she was when he left without saying goodbye. Brooke is nowadays a single mom and the nurse in charge of the town’s small hospital. She has no interest in a relationship . Did that and has the emotional scares as proof.
But fate brings Dalton and Brooke together. Will they get a second chance ? Will Dalton reveal his secret to his family and if so, will they turn their backs on him?
This was a touching story. At times heartbreaking , it was also heartwarming.
The plot was engaging and the imperfection of the characters, made them perfect.
This reader is looking forward to the next stories in the series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
The oldest Hart sibling, Wes, came back home when their parents were killed in a car accident to take care of his younger brothers. But as soon as they turned 18 , the two boys left .
The middle brother is Dalton Hart, former Navy SEAL and nowadays a physician. He left fifteen years ago because he felt responsible for the death of their parents. Still today, he carries a great deal of guilt and feels that if he reveals his secret, his family will never want to see him again. So his visit to help his grandmother , is only temporary.
Meanwhile, Brooke Garcia, once Dalton’s best friend and the one who secretly had a crush on Dalton, still remembers how heartbroken she was when he left without saying goodbye. Brooke is nowadays a single mom and the nurse in charge of the town’s small hospital. She has no interest in a relationship . Did that and has the emotional scares as proof.
But fate brings Dalton and Brooke together. Will they get a second chance ? Will Dalton reveal his secret to his family and if so, will they turn their backs on him?
This was a touching story. At times heartbreaking , it was also heartwarming.
The plot was engaging and the imperfection of the characters, made them perfect.
This reader is looking forward to the next stories in the series.
I was entrusted a copy of this book. The opinions expressed are solely my own.
May 22, 2025
Stella Holt was new to me with her debut novel, leading me to devour her Legacy of the Maguires series. I’m always willing to take a chance on a new or new-to-me author because you never know when you’ll find your next favorite. I was delighted by it, which led to a healthy desire to see where her stories took me. Spoiler alert: to date, I’ve thoroughly enjoyed them all. The Seal’s Promise shepherds in her next series, The Southern Hart Brothers. Needless to say, I’m a solid Stella Holt fan now.
Dalton and Brooke’s story is one of significant loss, reconnection, reconciliation, and a second chance at love for the main characters. As the opening act for this series, the worldbuilding introduces us to Dalton’s small hometown, where he returns to help his sweet but meddling grandmother and attempts to reconcile with his brother, with whom he also has a broken relationship. There’s also another brother we learn a bit about, but he doesn’t appear in this book. The story flowed well and hints at what’s to come in the series. As the relationship between the main characters progresses, we are treated to Brooke’s delightful young son, who steals your heart and adds just the right touch to the story.
With a great cast of secondary characters, relatable main characters, and a delightful small beach town that’s far from perfect, The Seal’s Promise was an entertaining read from start to finish. I’m looking forward to the books to come!
NICUnurse’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭑(4.5)
Dalton and Brooke’s story is one of significant loss, reconnection, reconciliation, and a second chance at love for the main characters. As the opening act for this series, the worldbuilding introduces us to Dalton’s small hometown, where he returns to help his sweet but meddling grandmother and attempts to reconcile with his brother, with whom he also has a broken relationship. There’s also another brother we learn a bit about, but he doesn’t appear in this book. The story flowed well and hints at what’s to come in the series. As the relationship between the main characters progresses, we are treated to Brooke’s delightful young son, who steals your heart and adds just the right touch to the story.
With a great cast of secondary characters, relatable main characters, and a delightful small beach town that’s far from perfect, The Seal’s Promise was an entertaining read from start to finish. I’m looking forward to the books to come!
NICUnurse’s Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭑(4.5)
May 23, 2025
The SEAL's Promise begins the Southern Hart Brothers with an emotional, fun, satisfying romance between former friends who didn’t act on their feelings in their younger days, but now life has taught them some lessons.
Perhaps, not the same lessons as Dalton is returning home to care for his Gran (who doesn’t need tending, thank you very much!), to try to heal his relationship with his brothers but isn’t intending to stay for long, and Brooke, who was devastated when Dalton left town without a word, yet moved on to a disastrous marriage. The only good thing about that marriage is her son, Max, who will steal scenes whenever he shows up on page.
I, frankly, have yet to read a Stella Holt book that I didn’t love. And that feeling continues in Dalton’s and Brooke’s story. A well-written, emotional, engaging, and, yes, fun story provides a great start to a series I’ll definitely follow. My favorite character? Dalton’s matchmaking grandmother! If you love a romance with a touch of drama, some old conflicts to get past, characters who are realistic, and a couple you can’t help but root for as they work their way to a happy ending, then The SEAL's Promise by Stella Holt is perfect for you.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or the author's team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
Perhaps, not the same lessons as Dalton is returning home to care for his Gran (who doesn’t need tending, thank you very much!), to try to heal his relationship with his brothers but isn’t intending to stay for long, and Brooke, who was devastated when Dalton left town without a word, yet moved on to a disastrous marriage. The only good thing about that marriage is her son, Max, who will steal scenes whenever he shows up on page.
I, frankly, have yet to read a Stella Holt book that I didn’t love. And that feeling continues in Dalton’s and Brooke’s story. A well-written, emotional, engaging, and, yes, fun story provides a great start to a series I’ll definitely follow. My favorite character? Dalton’s matchmaking grandmother! If you love a romance with a touch of drama, some old conflicts to get past, characters who are realistic, and a couple you can’t help but root for as they work their way to a happy ending, then The SEAL's Promise by Stella Holt is perfect for you.
*I received an e-ARC of this novel from the author or the author's team via Booksprout, and I sincerely thank them for their trust. It is my choice to leave a review giving my personal opinion about this book.*
May 16, 2025
This book is so good and I enjoyed reading it and I know you will love it too. I highly recommend this book to all of you that are looking for a good love story.
Here we have a second chance to get our love story right. Brooke Garcia and Dalton Hart were high school sweethearts. And then Daltons parents were killed in a car accident and the next thing you know he has left town without even saying good bye. My heart is broken and I may never be able to forgive Dalton for doing this to me.
Brooke went on with her plans and became a nurse working at the local hospital and she has worked her way up to director at this point. The hospital is so small and short staffed and she still works as a nurse when she is needed. I also got married to Tyler Banks but we got divorced when I found him in our bed making love to another woman. I was pregnant at the time and I now have a sweet little boy that is my life, Max is almost eight years old.
Here is is 15 years later and I hear Dalton is back in town. He went on to be a Seal but when he got hurt on his last mission he decided it was time to retire. He was a medic when a seal and worked at a hospital when he retired. So now he is here trying to get a job at my hospital. Will Brooke ever forgive me for leaving like I did? Do I have any kind of a chance at resuming our friendship like it used to be?
Here we have a second chance to get our love story right. Brooke Garcia and Dalton Hart were high school sweethearts. And then Daltons parents were killed in a car accident and the next thing you know he has left town without even saying good bye. My heart is broken and I may never be able to forgive Dalton for doing this to me.
Brooke went on with her plans and became a nurse working at the local hospital and she has worked her way up to director at this point. The hospital is so small and short staffed and she still works as a nurse when she is needed. I also got married to Tyler Banks but we got divorced when I found him in our bed making love to another woman. I was pregnant at the time and I now have a sweet little boy that is my life, Max is almost eight years old.
Here is is 15 years later and I hear Dalton is back in town. He went on to be a Seal but when he got hurt on his last mission he decided it was time to retire. He was a medic when a seal and worked at a hospital when he retired. So now he is here trying to get a job at my hospital. Will Brooke ever forgive me for leaving like I did? Do I have any kind of a chance at resuming our friendship like it used to be?
May 22, 2025
The SEAL’S Promise ~The Southern Hart Brothers #1 by Stella Holt.
Stella Holt delivers a brilliant start to her new series with The SEAL’S Promise. Set in the charming small town of Sandy Point, this book is a perfect blend of romance, heartfelt moments, and just the right touch of steam.
The chemistry between Dalton and Brooke is electric, pulling you in from their very first interaction. Their connection feels authentic and compelling, thanks to Stella’s vivid and emotionally rich writing.
The storyline flows smoothly, keeping you engaged while bringing both the setting and characters to life with descriptive detail.
This is a story that will stay with you long after you turn the last page. I highly recommend The SEAL’S Promise to fans of small-town romance, and I’m already looking forward to the next Southern Hart Brothers.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read
Great world building
Happily Ever After
Original
Page-turner
Romantic
Realistic
Steamy
Wonderful characters
Stella Holt delivers a brilliant start to her new series with The SEAL’S Promise. Set in the charming small town of Sandy Point, this book is a perfect blend of romance, heartfelt moments, and just the right touch of steam.
The chemistry between Dalton and Brooke is electric, pulling you in from their very first interaction. Their connection feels authentic and compelling, thanks to Stella’s vivid and emotionally rich writing.
The storyline flows smoothly, keeping you engaged while bringing both the setting and characters to life with descriptive detail.
This is a story that will stay with you long after you turn the last page. I highly recommend The SEAL’S Promise to fans of small-town romance, and I’m already looking forward to the next Southern Hart Brothers.
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Easy-to-read
Great world building
Happily Ever After
Original
Page-turner
Romantic
Realistic
Steamy
Wonderful characters
May 22, 2025
What an absolutely lovely book.
After 15 years away as a Navy Seal and becoming an emergency room doctor, Dalton comes home to take care of his grandmother...not that she needs taking care of!
Brooke had a serious crush on Dalton during high school and when he left, without even a goodbye, she was devastated. Moving along with her life she married, had a son, and divorced. Now she is the hospital administrator in need of an emergency room doctor.
Will Dalton and Brooke be able to put aside their animosity towards each other and work together? Will Brooke be able to make sure her son doesn't get to close to Dalton? Will love be able to conquer their doubts? Will Dalton finally let everyone know why he left and didn't come back until his grandmother needed him?
Great story, well crafted, and believable. I can't wait for the next book in this series.
After 15 years away as a Navy Seal and becoming an emergency room doctor, Dalton comes home to take care of his grandmother...not that she needs taking care of!
Brooke had a serious crush on Dalton during high school and when he left, without even a goodbye, she was devastated. Moving along with her life she married, had a son, and divorced. Now she is the hospital administrator in need of an emergency room doctor.
Will Dalton and Brooke be able to put aside their animosity towards each other and work together? Will Brooke be able to make sure her son doesn't get to close to Dalton? Will love be able to conquer their doubts? Will Dalton finally let everyone know why he left and didn't come back until his grandmother needed him?
Great story, well crafted, and believable. I can't wait for the next book in this series.
May 23, 2025
The first book in the new Southern Hart Brothers Series, The Seals Promise by Stella Holt will take the reader on a heartwarming journey that will leave a smile on your face when finished. Dr. Dalton Hart returns home after fifteen years to reconnect with his brothers and care for his sassy grandmother. He has been away for a long time so you can imagine mending some broken ties with his brothers is important to this story. It is full of realistic feelings, doubts, and fears. This is also a second chance romance for Dalton and medical professional, Brooke Garcia. With all the serious issues it is still an upbeat story because of Dalton’s positive attitude. A story that includes the troubles of child custody, small-town hospitals and town development. All parts of real life in small-town America. A great start to this new series with people you will love.
May 8, 2025
A wonderfully written easy to read romantic story as Dalton returns to his hometown after several years to help his grandmother. He runs into his old friend Brooke that always had a crush on him at the hospital when he takes his grandmother in for passing out. The grandmother was trying everything to get Dalton to move back home. Brooke had married a rich man, had a son by him, now divorced, received no child support, and she worked extra hours at the hospital to make ends meet. Dalton retired SEAL, and doctor ended up filling a position at the hospital for a while, but he claimed he was not staying in town forever. We would see about that!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 21, 2025
The SEAL’s Promise is book 1 in the Southern Hart Brothers series by Stella Holt, a new to me author 4.5 stars
Dalton and Brooke were high school friends (she was crushing) but when tragedy strikes he graduates and leaves for the naval academy along with a secret. Now 15 yrs later he’s back to help his family that he hasn’t seen since he left. When he sees Brooke after all this time something stirs in his heart. What happens next is forgiveness, looking for ways to help his family, reconnection, emotional on many levels, second chances and finally learning to let go of the secret to build a future with your soulmate! Can’t wait for the next Hart brother…
I voluntarily read a copy of this book from Tule Publishing, American Heart. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
Dalton and Brooke were high school friends (she was crushing) but when tragedy strikes he graduates and leaves for the naval academy along with a secret. Now 15 yrs later he’s back to help his family that he hasn’t seen since he left. When he sees Brooke after all this time something stirs in his heart. What happens next is forgiveness, looking for ways to help his family, reconnection, emotional on many levels, second chances and finally learning to let go of the secret to build a future with your soulmate! Can’t wait for the next Hart brother…
I voluntarily read a copy of this book from Tule Publishing, American Heart. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 24, 2025
Dalton Hart is coming home after 15 years of experience as a Navy SEAL, then an ER doctor after a medical discharge. The reason he left was never clear to his family or to Brooke, his friend. Everyone has changed and his "welcome" is strained. As things progress he feels that this is home, and he wants to stay. What he didn't expect was to fall in love with Brooke and her adorable son, Max. Add in a vengeful ex, a conniving grandmother, and many other interesting characters and you have a very satisfying story of second chances, family, and finding home. This will appeal to those who enjoy goodness winning in life and love.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 19, 2025
Dr. Dalton Hart and Brooke Garcia are being giving a second chance. Dalton never thought he would come home again, and he doesn’t know if he wants to stay. Brooke has already had her heart broken by her ex and she has a son to think about. The more time they spend together the closer they get. The closer they get the more their hearts become involved. Will they be able to figure out what it is that they both truly want before it is to late? I loved this book. I could not put it down. A really great start to this new series and I am eagerly awaiting the next book. I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
May 22, 2025
This book was cute, sweet and so much fun! Single mom, Brooke, is a nurse and the hospital administrator in this small town. Dalton is a doctor that has just come home to help out his grandma. They used to be friends when they were younger. Brooke definitely had a crush on him and he left.
This book was well written with lots of good emotion. I love small town romances with lots of heart! This book had it all. The conflict was good allowing me to want to keep reading long past my bedtime. The author did a good job setting up the backstories. I loved the character growth. I felt like these characters were friends! I’m excited to read the rest of this series!
This book was well written with lots of good emotion. I love small town romances with lots of heart! This book had it all. The conflict was good allowing me to want to keep reading long past my bedtime. The author did a good job setting up the backstories. I loved the character growth. I felt like these characters were friends! I’m excited to read the rest of this series!
May 21, 2025
This was an emotional and wonderful read between two old friends, Brook and Dalton! Taking place in their small hometown, they both have to deal with ghosts of the past while battling their current feelings for each other. I loved these two together and how much Dalton supported Brook and her son, Max. Gran was such a kick in the pants and added a flair and conniving to their story that was awesome! While this was a medium heat story, it was very easy to skip over any parts I didn't feel comfortable reading. Overall, this story was amazing and I'm anxious to see what Gran has in store for Dalton's brother, Levi next!
August 19, 2025
This is my first book by Stella. I found Dalton and Brooke to be very endearing characters. Dalton’s grandmother has me in stitches with her antics. This book has a villain and I spent the entire book hating him. Both Brooke and Dalton have emotional scars and hurt to work through. And we learned that some family members aren’t all that they seemed to be. One thing that bothered me was the constant switching between first and last names. I understand that sometimes children will address adults as Mr. Dalton instead of Mr. Hart but for adults to do it interchangeably seems inconsistent. And addressing doctors as Dr. Tommy seems unprofessional.
April 29, 2025
Dalton has felt quilt for his parents death for a long time now and it has caused him to be on the outs with his siblings. Brooke has been a single mom for a few years and wants child support so she can give her son a better future. But her ex wants to play dirty. Dalton finally gets the truth about the night his parents both passed away. So good,emotional, pulling together, and letting the hurt and guilt go. I love everything about this story.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 22, 2025
Dalton is only in town temporarily to help his grandmother but when he runs into his old friend Brooke at the hospital he can't help but feel attracted. Brooke is angry at Dalton for leaving without saying goodbye but she's always had feelings for him. Is this her chance to act on it if her selfish manipulative ex doesn't get in the way? Her son Max was great and took to Dalton right away. Dalton's grandmother is a riot with friends and own schemes for her grandsons. This was a steamy former friends to lovers romance.
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