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Anchors and Eagles #4
What I Should Have Felt
Fifteen years ago, he left without a word. She swore she would never forgive him. He swore he would never return. Now he’s the only one who can protect her—even if it means getting stabbed in the heart all over again, because in the Louisiana bayou, some promises are meant to be broken.
Navy SEAL operator Ford Thibodeaux never thought a phone call would bring him back to the place he once called home. Despite the threat that forced him to leave fifteen years ago, staying away is no longer an option with his family’s livelihood in danger. He expects trouble, but not the kind with fiery red hair, a sharp tongue, and bright green eyes that have haunted his dreams. When he runs into Colette LeBlanc, the woman he walked away from, he knows there’s no reason for her to ever trust or love him again. But his feelings for her never changed and he will do anything to keep her safe. Even if that means getting stabbed by her. Again. And again.
Colette LeBlanc spent fifteen years trying to forget him. Ford disappeared without a word, shattering her heart, and leaving her to pick up the pieces while pretending she didn’t care. Forced by a long-standing family rivalry to keep their relationship a secret all those years, she buried her pain, became a doctor, and made a life without him. But now he’s back. Older. Harder. And even more maddening than she remembers. Her family’s restaurant is hanging on by a thread, and the same ruthless developer threatening the Thibodeauxs is aiming to destroy everything she’s worked for. She doesn’t want his help. She definitely doesn’t want him. But it seems her heart hasn’t gotten the memo.
As tensions rise and the attacks on both families turn violent, this fight becomes more than just about the businesses or money. It’s personal. The walls Colette and Ford have built around their hearts start to crack, but old wounds and buried secrets still stand between them. If they want to survive, both of them have to face the past and decide if love and vulnerability are worth it. Or they risk more than their own broken hearts.
This is book 4 of 5, following "What I Should Have Known" BUT can be read as a standalone. A discreet cover option will be available in paperback and hardcover at a later time.
This is the second to last in this series! So there is one more to follow to wrap up this wonderful journey:)
Navy SEAL operator Ford Thibodeaux never thought a phone call would bring him back to the place he once called home. Despite the threat that forced him to leave fifteen years ago, staying away is no longer an option with his family’s livelihood in danger. He expects trouble, but not the kind with fiery red hair, a sharp tongue, and bright green eyes that have haunted his dreams. When he runs into Colette LeBlanc, the woman he walked away from, he knows there’s no reason for her to ever trust or love him again. But his feelings for her never changed and he will do anything to keep her safe. Even if that means getting stabbed by her. Again. And again.
Colette LeBlanc spent fifteen years trying to forget him. Ford disappeared without a word, shattering her heart, and leaving her to pick up the pieces while pretending she didn’t care. Forced by a long-standing family rivalry to keep their relationship a secret all those years, she buried her pain, became a doctor, and made a life without him. But now he’s back. Older. Harder. And even more maddening than she remembers. Her family’s restaurant is hanging on by a thread, and the same ruthless developer threatening the Thibodeauxs is aiming to destroy everything she’s worked for. She doesn’t want his help. She definitely doesn’t want him. But it seems her heart hasn’t gotten the memo.
As tensions rise and the attacks on both families turn violent, this fight becomes more than just about the businesses or money. It’s personal. The walls Colette and Ford have built around their hearts start to crack, but old wounds and buried secrets still stand between them. If they want to survive, both of them have to face the past and decide if love and vulnerability are worth it. Or they risk more than their own broken hearts.
This is book 4 of 5, following "What I Should Have Known" BUT can be read as a standalone. A discreet cover option will be available in paperback and hardcover at a later time.
This is the second to last in this series! So there is one more to follow to wrap up this wonderful journey:)
363 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 27, 2025
137 people are currently reading
955 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 81 reviews
December 14, 2025
4.5⭐️ I love heterochromia even more. Especially, when there are tattoos involved.
June 30, 2025
ARC Review:
Did I read this in one sitting? Yes, yes I did.
I did cry, yell, scream at my poor kindle? Also yes, yes I did.
Did I have some serious choice words for FMC’s parents? Also yes I did. *sided eye hard core*
Did I love the way the FMC was a baddie in her own right? Yes I did. Love me some femme rage.
I also wanted the MMC grandma to adopt me. No shame there.
Stars: 5/5
Spice: None.
Did I read this in one sitting? Yes, yes I did.
I did cry, yell, scream at my poor kindle? Also yes, yes I did.
Did I have some serious choice words for FMC’s parents? Also yes I did. *sided eye hard core*
Did I love the way the FMC was a baddie in her own right? Yes I did. Love me some femme rage.
I also wanted the MMC grandma to adopt me. No shame there.
Stars: 5/5
Spice: None.
June 21, 2025
Colette and Ford? Love. This is a second chance, friends to lovers, small town, mystery romance. And suuuch a fun read. So many secrets undiscovered, and the banter is top notch.
July 15, 2025
R.L has done it yet again! Book 4 in the Anchors & Eagles series, What I Should have felt, was everything I hoped for and more! I loved getting to know the mysterious Ford better and the love of his life Colette. This second chance romance checked all the boxes. If you haven't checked out this series yet I highly recommend that you do if you love dark military romance like me!
July 4, 2025
Ugh! Where do I begin! Ford and Colette are everything! This is my favorite book of the series. All of the angst, twist and turns were amazing! Amazing job!
June 27, 2025
Finally Ford’s book!!!! Colette made me grin and laugh so much. Her character was a spitfire and I adored how she stood up to Ford. Ford always made me laugh with the jokester side he had, but it was great seeing him vulnerable.
He really knew how to set thing in motion that one. Ford said he wished Dom had been there at one point because he just wanted to be given the orders… but I can tell you Ford is definitely a leader and protector. I loved the protective side that came out of him in this book. Learning about his past made it so easy to connect with him. I was rooting for Colette and Ford from the moment she stabbed him (to be fair through… he totally deserved it, can’t be sneaking in a girls house like that my guy come on) I couldn’t stand Colette’s family. As much as I tried to give them the benefit of the doubt it just wasn’t possible for me by the end of the book but that’s okay because maybe one day in my head they’ll grow on me. Fords Mawmaw was just the sweetest woman I could imagine. I wished I had a grandma like her. The REAL star of the show though was Azelie. She stole my heart the moment I met her. ( not sure how to pronounce her name but it’s fine we got through it) She was awesome. Just like the perfect mix of her mom and dad. I loved that she was so much older. (Only 14 BUT) I always read books where the children are so young. It was nice to see a different dynamic between a mom and her teenage daughter. And a dad and his teenage daughter as well! I can’t wait to finish off the series with Dom’s book!!!
He really knew how to set thing in motion that one. Ford said he wished Dom had been there at one point because he just wanted to be given the orders… but I can tell you Ford is definitely a leader and protector. I loved the protective side that came out of him in this book. Learning about his past made it so easy to connect with him. I was rooting for Colette and Ford from the moment she stabbed him (to be fair through… he totally deserved it, can’t be sneaking in a girls house like that my guy come on) I couldn’t stand Colette’s family. As much as I tried to give them the benefit of the doubt it just wasn’t possible for me by the end of the book but that’s okay because maybe one day in my head they’ll grow on me. Fords Mawmaw was just the sweetest woman I could imagine. I wished I had a grandma like her. The REAL star of the show though was Azelie. She stole my heart the moment I met her. ( not sure how to pronounce her name but it’s fine we got through it) She was awesome. Just like the perfect mix of her mom and dad. I loved that she was so much older. (Only 14 BUT) I always read books where the children are so young. It was nice to see a different dynamic between a mom and her teenage daughter. And a dad and his teenage daughter as well! I can’t wait to finish off the series with Dom’s book!!!
June 20, 2025
Book four of the “What I Should Have…” series takes us on Ford’s journey home.
He hasn’t been back to the bayou for 11 years and is slightly trepidatious (well,
as trepidations as a Navy SEAL gets), as to what’s going to greet him when he
arrives.
He left 15 years ago and hasn’t had any contact with anyone, his family, and the
love of his youth, included. His secret visit 11 years ago proved everything was
fine and worked out as it should have.
That was true until his Mawmaw told him he needed to come home, that trouble
had come to town and his family needed him.
During his visit, you’ll meet the town’s doctor, Collette, who happens to not only
be the woman he’s pined for all this time, but is also the daughter of his family’s
generational enemies. Think Hatfield and McCoys or Montegues and Capulets.
Join Ford as he navigates tumultuous days of regret, forgiveness, life-altering
surprises, and, ultimately, love. Along the way, he and the team also combat a
vindictive billionaire set on not only destroying the town, but these two families,
in particular.
As with the first three in R. L. Atkinson’s “What I Should Have” series, this was a
5🌟 read with a 2.5🌶️ level. This book is scheduled for a June 27, 2025 release
date, which gives you enough time to read the first three and get to know the
rest of the team. You’ll be smiling when you finish this book. Don’t hesitate to
add it to your collection.
He hasn’t been back to the bayou for 11 years and is slightly trepidatious (well,
as trepidations as a Navy SEAL gets), as to what’s going to greet him when he
arrives.
He left 15 years ago and hasn’t had any contact with anyone, his family, and the
love of his youth, included. His secret visit 11 years ago proved everything was
fine and worked out as it should have.
That was true until his Mawmaw told him he needed to come home, that trouble
had come to town and his family needed him.
During his visit, you’ll meet the town’s doctor, Collette, who happens to not only
be the woman he’s pined for all this time, but is also the daughter of his family’s
generational enemies. Think Hatfield and McCoys or Montegues and Capulets.
Join Ford as he navigates tumultuous days of regret, forgiveness, life-altering
surprises, and, ultimately, love. Along the way, he and the team also combat a
vindictive billionaire set on not only destroying the town, but these two families,
in particular.
As with the first three in R. L. Atkinson’s “What I Should Have” series, this was a
5🌟 read with a 2.5🌶️ level. This book is scheduled for a June 27, 2025 release
date, which gives you enough time to read the first three and get to know the
rest of the team. You’ll be smiling when you finish this book. Don’t hesitate to
add it to your collection.
June 30, 2025
This is my first book by R. L. Atkinson. Granted this is the 4th book in the series and before I began reading it, the books are standalones, but it's recommended to read them in order. Oops!
Overall, the story is good. You've got Ford who's been away for 15 years serving in the military and Colette who dreamed big and became a doctor.
While the overall story is good, 😬 there were some serious plot holes. Was I able to overlook most of them for the good of the book and to see how it ended? Yes, it's very rare when I wont finish a book.
I have a lot of unanswered questions. I also feel like the author wasn't sure how to wrap up certain parts to get to the HEA or make certain parts of the book fall into place for the "ah-ha" moment, so she threw in a few convenient instances. Which is a little disappointing in my book. I do intend to go back and read the first 3 books in this series.
So if you're looking for a simple book that wont make you think too much into what all is happening or you're looking for that, "Im in-between series right now and nit sure what to read" book, pick this one up for a palette cleanser!
Overall, the story is good. You've got Ford who's been away for 15 years serving in the military and Colette who dreamed big and became a doctor.
While the overall story is good, 😬 there were some serious plot holes. Was I able to overlook most of them for the good of the book and to see how it ended? Yes, it's very rare when I wont finish a book.
I have a lot of unanswered questions. I also feel like the author wasn't sure how to wrap up certain parts to get to the HEA or make certain parts of the book fall into place for the "ah-ha" moment, so she threw in a few convenient instances. Which is a little disappointing in my book. I do intend to go back and read the first 3 books in this series.
So if you're looking for a simple book that wont make you think too much into what all is happening or you're looking for that, "Im in-between series right now and nit sure what to read" book, pick this one up for a palette cleanser!
June 27, 2025
What is hiding in the bayou (hint it's not swamp puppies lol)?
It's time to follow Ford back to his home town. Why was he afraid to return and what is bringing him back now?
This is such a tragic story of missed chances and family feuds. Ford left the love of his life and his family back in the bayou where he grew up. You see their families own competing restaurants and their has been beef between the families for so long I'm not sure anyone really even knows why anymore.
When Ford's grandmother calls him home to help with the issues in town he will be forced to face the woman he still loves. Is there still a chance for them to have a future or has that boat completely sailed?
First off this woman is feisty and her first response to Ford being back is freaking epic. However, she is hiding some pretty big secrets. Her family also has secrets and lies they have told that have shaped the lives of everyone involved.
The bad guy buying up the town and not afraid to use thugs to get what he wants....yeah I didn't expect that to go where it did.
The biggest reveal though was both tragic and fantastic. In a small town how have so many secrets been kept for so long?
I giggled about the weird passive aggressive compliment fighting that happens though. Of all the ways to fight that is a pretty epic way.
It's time to follow Ford back to his home town. Why was he afraid to return and what is bringing him back now?
This is such a tragic story of missed chances and family feuds. Ford left the love of his life and his family back in the bayou where he grew up. You see their families own competing restaurants and their has been beef between the families for so long I'm not sure anyone really even knows why anymore.
When Ford's grandmother calls him home to help with the issues in town he will be forced to face the woman he still loves. Is there still a chance for them to have a future or has that boat completely sailed?
First off this woman is feisty and her first response to Ford being back is freaking epic. However, she is hiding some pretty big secrets. Her family also has secrets and lies they have told that have shaped the lives of everyone involved.
The bad guy buying up the town and not afraid to use thugs to get what he wants....yeah I didn't expect that to go where it did.
The biggest reveal though was both tragic and fantastic. In a small town how have so many secrets been kept for so long?
I giggled about the weird passive aggressive compliment fighting that happens though. Of all the ways to fight that is a pretty epic way.
July 3, 2025
Ford & Colette 🖤
If there is one series that I would recommend everyone read, it is this one. R.L. Atkinson does a phenomenal job with my favorite SEALs, and I swear each book keeps getting better!
Ford and Colette have such a history and so many secrets, but it makes for such a good story line! Each time a secret was aired, I got so happy! There was just something about them reconnecting after 15 years!
And the fact that the whole team came to Willow Roux? I had missed them dearly, and was so excited to have them show up at the track. There is just something about this military family that warms your heart! And that ending? Holy moly! I didn’t see that coming, but I loved every second of Ford doing his thing!
This is an interconnected series, and while you don’t have to read the previous three books, there is a back story that helps connect some dots about characters that are referenced. The fact that only one book remains makes me sad, because I love this series with my whole heart, and I think you will too!
You will love What I Should Have Felt if you love
🐊 Second Chance Romance
💀 Secrets and Danger
🐊 a “My Wife” Moment
💀 She Stabs Him
🐊 Forced Proximity
If there is one series that I would recommend everyone read, it is this one. R.L. Atkinson does a phenomenal job with my favorite SEALs, and I swear each book keeps getting better!
Ford and Colette have such a history and so many secrets, but it makes for such a good story line! Each time a secret was aired, I got so happy! There was just something about them reconnecting after 15 years!
And the fact that the whole team came to Willow Roux? I had missed them dearly, and was so excited to have them show up at the track. There is just something about this military family that warms your heart! And that ending? Holy moly! I didn’t see that coming, but I loved every second of Ford doing his thing!
This is an interconnected series, and while you don’t have to read the previous three books, there is a back story that helps connect some dots about characters that are referenced. The fact that only one book remains makes me sad, because I love this series with my whole heart, and I think you will too!
You will love What I Should Have Felt if you love
🐊 Second Chance Romance
💀 Secrets and Danger
🐊 a “My Wife” Moment
💀 She Stabs Him
🐊 Forced Proximity
July 5, 2025
ღ BOOK REVIEW ღ
𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝑺𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝑯𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝑭𝒆𝒍𝒕
By R.L. Atkinson
𝑻𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔~
Fifteen years is a long time to hold a secret and be away from your person/love. This romantic suspense features Ford from the Navy Seal team that the series follows. While home, after being called back by his Mawmaw, long buried secrets are brought to light and Ford and Collette rediscover past feelings while resolving the person causing havoc on his and her families business in his small hometown in the bayou.
𝙉𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙗𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙛 𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙚𝙢𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙧𝙮 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙩𝙪𝙖𝙧𝙮 𝙬𝙖𝙨, 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙤𝙖𝙨𝙞𝙨.
Another great book in the Anchors and Eagles Series. This was a quick fast paced read and I loved both Ford and Collette. She was a fierce and independent mama that was doing what she needed to raise her daughter and Fords devotion to doing the right thing to protect the ones he loves just had my heart hurting for the time he missed out on.
There is to be one more book in the series I am sad that the series is ending. I have really enjoyed this entire SEALs team and the ones they fall for.
Second Chance •Single Mom •former military •romantic suspense •standalone •It’s always been you •secrets
𝑾𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝑺𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒍𝒅 𝑯𝒂𝒗𝒆 𝑭𝒆𝒍𝒕
By R.L. Atkinson
𝑻𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔~
Fifteen years is a long time to hold a secret and be away from your person/love. This romantic suspense features Ford from the Navy Seal team that the series follows. While home, after being called back by his Mawmaw, long buried secrets are brought to light and Ford and Collette rediscover past feelings while resolving the person causing havoc on his and her families business in his small hometown in the bayou.
𝙉𝙤 𝙢𝙖𝙩𝙩𝙚𝙧 𝙝𝙤𝙬 𝙗𝙧𝙞𝙚𝙛 𝙤𝙧 𝙩𝙚𝙢𝙥𝙤𝙧𝙖𝙧𝙮 𝙢𝙮 𝙨𝙖𝙣𝙘𝙩𝙪𝙖𝙧𝙮 𝙬𝙖𝙨, 𝙨𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙖𝙨 𝙢𝙮 𝙤𝙖𝙨𝙞𝙨.
Another great book in the Anchors and Eagles Series. This was a quick fast paced read and I loved both Ford and Collette. She was a fierce and independent mama that was doing what she needed to raise her daughter and Fords devotion to doing the right thing to protect the ones he loves just had my heart hurting for the time he missed out on.
There is to be one more book in the series I am sad that the series is ending. I have really enjoyed this entire SEALs team and the ones they fall for.
Second Chance •Single Mom •former military •romantic suspense •standalone •It’s always been you •secrets
June 25, 2025
Book 4 in the Anchors and Eagles series features Ford and Colette
Tropes: Small town romance, Second chances, military romance (if ya didn’t already know lol)
This book in the series was also healing after the pain and heart ache that we went through with the last three books. Yes the characters still had a battle to fight but in the end, everyone gained a closure that they didn’t have before.
I LOVED that the fact that Griffin taking three days to rescue Jane was mentioned! That has absolutely been my FAVORITE running joke in the series and on social media. I love how R.L. Writes their “diet spice” scenes, unlike other spicy romances, these scenes in her books makes you FEEL what’s in the characters hearts rather than what is explicitly happening. The mixture of both is 🤌🏼🤌🏼🤌🏼 PERFECT.
As I always say in my reviews of this series: thank you R.L. Atkinson for embodying what our service members and veterans go through. For doing your best to accurately portray how things work in specific scenarios. As a military family and married to a combat veteran. Thank you 💜
Tropes: Small town romance, Second chances, military romance (if ya didn’t already know lol)
This book in the series was also healing after the pain and heart ache that we went through with the last three books. Yes the characters still had a battle to fight but in the end, everyone gained a closure that they didn’t have before.
I LOVED that the fact that Griffin taking three days to rescue Jane was mentioned! That has absolutely been my FAVORITE running joke in the series and on social media. I love how R.L. Writes their “diet spice” scenes, unlike other spicy romances, these scenes in her books makes you FEEL what’s in the characters hearts rather than what is explicitly happening. The mixture of both is 🤌🏼🤌🏼🤌🏼 PERFECT.
As I always say in my reviews of this series: thank you R.L. Atkinson for embodying what our service members and veterans go through. For doing your best to accurately portray how things work in specific scenarios. As a military family and married to a combat veteran. Thank you 💜
July 3, 2025
✨ 𝚂𝚙𝚘𝚒𝚕𝚎𝚛𝚜 ✨
𝚃𝚒𝚝𝚕𝚎/𝙰𝚞𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚛:
What I Should Have Felt - R.L Atkinson
𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
𝙼𝚊𝚒𝚗 𝙲𝚑𝚊𝚛𝚊𝚌𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚜:
- Ford
- Collette
𝚀𝚞𝚘𝚝𝚎𝚜:
"She was the only heaven I’d ever make it to."
"It left me with the love of my life and my daughter. My family. My world. The beauty and color I’d been missing."
"It was time to become the monster of death I’d been trained to be."
𝚂𝚢𝚗𝚘𝚙𝚜𝚒𝚜:
Collette and Ford had a hard relationship and it wasn't all their fault. When life happens and Collette is in trouble, Ford jumps in to protect what's his.
𝚃𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝𝚜:
This author just keeps giving me more books to read! There is one more book in this series and I'm so excited but so sad because I loved this little gang. This story was fantastic and always something turning my head towards. The FMC was feisty and the MMC was strong and caring. How did everything to protect everyone else heart but his own.
𝚃𝚛𝚘𝚙𝚎𝚜:
• Second chances
• Military
• Secrets
• Suspense
• Hea
𝚂𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚎:
🌶️/5
𝚂𝚘𝚗𝚐:
You're Gonna Go Far - Noah Kahan
𝚃𝚒𝚝𝚕𝚎/𝙰𝚞𝚝𝚑𝚘𝚛:
What I Should Have Felt - R.L Atkinson
𝚁𝚊𝚝𝚒𝚗𝚐:
⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐/5
𝙼𝚊𝚒𝚗 𝙲𝚑𝚊𝚛𝚊𝚌𝚝𝚎𝚛𝚜:
- Ford
- Collette
𝚀𝚞𝚘𝚝𝚎𝚜:
"She was the only heaven I’d ever make it to."
"It left me with the love of my life and my daughter. My family. My world. The beauty and color I’d been missing."
"It was time to become the monster of death I’d been trained to be."
𝚂𝚢𝚗𝚘𝚙𝚜𝚒𝚜:
Collette and Ford had a hard relationship and it wasn't all their fault. When life happens and Collette is in trouble, Ford jumps in to protect what's his.
𝚃𝚑𝚘𝚞𝚐𝚑𝚝𝚜:
This author just keeps giving me more books to read! There is one more book in this series and I'm so excited but so sad because I loved this little gang. This story was fantastic and always something turning my head towards. The FMC was feisty and the MMC was strong and caring. How did everything to protect everyone else heart but his own.
𝚃𝚛𝚘𝚙𝚎𝚜:
• Second chances
• Military
• Secrets
• Suspense
• Hea
𝚂𝚙𝚒𝚌𝚎:
🌶️/5
𝚂𝚘𝚗𝚐:
You're Gonna Go Far - Noah Kahan
June 26, 2025
Ford’s story has always been a tease and a mystery. I never would have guessed the amount of history he was hiding in his Cajun roots back home. Neither did he. The secrets always have a way of making their way known.
This book reminded me so much of Romeo and Juliet without the tragic ending and a HEA. Colette and Ford’s families have been feuding for decades in Louisiana and it has put them at risk when a developer shows up in their small town throwing threats and harm to all. Leave it to Mawmaw making a call to bring home Ford after being gone for 15 years to discover all of this. Let’s just say that little was put up with once he was home.
From the banter to the sass, I was all for it. Also when the secrets started to spill, let’s say you should have a box of tissues close by. Definitely one of favorite reads of this year.
This book reminded me so much of Romeo and Juliet without the tragic ending and a HEA. Colette and Ford’s families have been feuding for decades in Louisiana and it has put them at risk when a developer shows up in their small town throwing threats and harm to all. Leave it to Mawmaw making a call to bring home Ford after being gone for 15 years to discover all of this. Let’s just say that little was put up with once he was home.
From the banter to the sass, I was all for it. Also when the secrets started to spill, let’s say you should have a box of tissues close by. Definitely one of favorite reads of this year.
June 30, 2025
Fifteen years ago Ford left his hometown, his family and the love of his life behind. He has not seen any of them in that time, after a call from his grandmother he knows its time to return home and try to protect his town from a greedy developer who wants to buy them all out. Collette has spent the past 15 years in the same town trying to forget about Ford but when he comes barreling back into town she has to face the truth of what really happened all those years ago and the man who returned is not the boy she remembers. Also there is danger around every corner since her parents refuse to sell their restaurant and the developer will stop at nothing to scare them away.
I loved this book, it may be my favorite in the series so far. Ford has been a character I really enjoyed in the other books and I was so happy to finally get a book centered around him. I also really enjoyed Collette's character and how well she matched Ford. I also really enjoyed the family rivals aspect of this one and the feuding restaurants.
I loved this book, it may be my favorite in the series so far. Ford has been a character I really enjoyed in the other books and I was so happy to finally get a book centered around him. I also really enjoyed Collette's character and how well she matched Ford. I also really enjoyed the family rivals aspect of this one and the feuding restaurants.
July 3, 2025
This is one of the best military romance series I've read. As far as R.L. Atkinson goes, I'll devour anything she writes, but this series? Perfection. And out of that perfection, we get the second chance romance between Ford and his lost love, Colette.
The dynamic between these two was so good. Between bantering and stabbing, you can't help but love them. You can feel how tight they were when they were kids and how devastating it was that they parted. Poor Ford. That giant just couldn't hold it together after being home for the first time in 15 years.
I just really loved this. The relationship between all of the characters, not just Ford and Colette, but their families too, were so well done. The pacing was fantastic. It was just a constant ride between relationship repair/rebuild and suspense. I cannot wait for the next and last book in this series.
The dynamic between these two was so good. Between bantering and stabbing, you can't help but love them. You can feel how tight they were when they were kids and how devastating it was that they parted. Poor Ford. That giant just couldn't hold it together after being home for the first time in 15 years.
I just really loved this. The relationship between all of the characters, not just Ford and Colette, but their families too, were so well done. The pacing was fantastic. It was just a constant ride between relationship repair/rebuild and suspense. I cannot wait for the next and last book in this series.
July 4, 2025
another great story from Atkinson that i had the honor of being an arc reader for! this was actually the first book I had picked up in months and I quite honestly couldn't put it down. managed to read it all in one day and it was even on my mind during my work shift. The action and light spice was absolutely perfect.
I'd have to say this might actually take the spot as my favorite book that I've read from Atkinson. I was absolutely taken surprise by the plot twist with Azelie, Colette, and Ford. while it was hinted at for a moment before the reveal, it didn't quite click in my mind until I got to the reveal. I especially loved the dynamic between Ford and Colette. Colette's attitude also earned her a spot in my list of favorite characters.
I'm looking forward to the next book in the series eagerly!
I'd have to say this might actually take the spot as my favorite book that I've read from Atkinson. I was absolutely taken surprise by the plot twist with Azelie, Colette, and Ford. while it was hinted at for a moment before the reveal, it didn't quite click in my mind until I got to the reveal. I especially loved the dynamic between Ford and Colette. Colette's attitude also earned her a spot in my list of favorite characters.
I'm looking forward to the next book in the series eagerly!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 10, 2025
I have yet to be disappointed by anything R.L. Atkinson writes. I always go into her book with excitement, like going into binging my favorite show or movie. I can't pull myself away from her books once I start reading, especially her male characters. They are my favorite.
Ford and Colette are amazing. Their connection, the banter, and their ability to see each other as no one else does. Although diet spice, the burn is slow and teasing. Colette's fiery, independent nature with Ford's quiet yet domineering stance makes for great conflict (🥰) and fun reading. These two are now officially my favorite of the series, but I say this for every couple in this series.
Thank you so much for writing this, R.L. I'm so grateful to be a part of this journey with you, and I can't wait to see the conclusion.
Ford and Colette are amazing. Their connection, the banter, and their ability to see each other as no one else does. Although diet spice, the burn is slow and teasing. Colette's fiery, independent nature with Ford's quiet yet domineering stance makes for great conflict (🥰) and fun reading. These two are now officially my favorite of the series, but I say this for every couple in this series.
Thank you so much for writing this, R.L. I'm so grateful to be a part of this journey with you, and I can't wait to see the conclusion.
July 15, 2025
southern military man , sign me up
Truly wish there were half stars , because it would of been a 4.5 for me .
This one picks up with Ford going back home after 15 long years . Back to face his past and the choices he made years ago.
Ford is hot ! Not just navy seal persona hot , or southern charm hot . No this man is sweet, caring, funny , hot as sin and protective to a fault while still lets a woman shine .
Collet is a fierce , sassy, well put together FMC who isn’t afraid of packing a punch . Down to get a little stabby she faces everything head on. However facing her past and things they left unsaid proved to be a bit more challenging than expected .
Loved seeing the whole group come back together, watching Ford finally get what he deserved . Can’t wait for the final book
Truly wish there were half stars , because it would of been a 4.5 for me .
This one picks up with Ford going back home after 15 long years . Back to face his past and the choices he made years ago.
Ford is hot ! Not just navy seal persona hot , or southern charm hot . No this man is sweet, caring, funny , hot as sin and protective to a fault while still lets a woman shine .
Collet is a fierce , sassy, well put together FMC who isn’t afraid of packing a punch . Down to get a little stabby she faces everything head on. However facing her past and things they left unsaid proved to be a bit more challenging than expected .
Loved seeing the whole group come back together, watching Ford finally get what he deserved . Can’t wait for the final book
June 22, 2025
Absolutely loved this book, I finished it in a day.
Every time I read a book in this series I’m like this is the best couple/love story. But each time I’m like I love this couple even more. Ford and Colette’s story is so sweet and the first thing that comes to my mind is ‘what’s meant to be will always find a way’. Ford will do whatever it takes to protect Colette and show her how much she means to him. Colette is also such a badass FMC.
Nice level of diet spice all the way through and the passion between these two is always bubbling. Loved trying to figure out who the villain is through this and still ended up surprised. Cannot wait for the next one in the series, even though I will be sad that it’s the last one.
Every time I read a book in this series I’m like this is the best couple/love story. But each time I’m like I love this couple even more. Ford and Colette’s story is so sweet and the first thing that comes to my mind is ‘what’s meant to be will always find a way’. Ford will do whatever it takes to protect Colette and show her how much she means to him. Colette is also such a badass FMC.
Nice level of diet spice all the way through and the passion between these two is always bubbling. Loved trying to figure out who the villain is through this and still ended up surprised. Cannot wait for the next one in the series, even though I will be sad that it’s the last one.
June 27, 2025
I have loved this series so much!!! This is the 4th book in the anchors and eagles series that is Ford and Colette’s story. Second chance, military, and friends to lovers romance. Ford leaves his hometown for many years at a young age and is called back when trouble comes to town. His first love, Colette and her family are a rival family and have been bickering for years. Ford thinks Colette has been happy and protected for all these years he has been gone but what happens next when he finds out that’s not what happened. These 2 have an undeniable connection that is lost for so many years because of secrets and lies. I love that we get to see our other couples and his teammates and I so can’t wait for Dom’s book next!!!!
June 27, 2025
This is book 4 in the series and it might be my favorite or least tied with Mickey & Scottie
Collette is no nonsense, take care of her self but she realizes she can take a step back and let Ford be the protector he is trained to be.
Having loved Collette since they were kids Ford made the hard decision to leave her behind to protect her but never told her the reason. Collette is upset when Ford returns but they are both keeping secretes from each other that they have both had since they were teenagers.
The whole group (SEAL team) eventually comes together to help Ford put a bully in her place, while earning some clout, but also save the people he loves and cares about the most.
Favorite quote
“Nobody stabbed Ford but me. Especially with my own knife.”
Collette is no nonsense, take care of her self but she realizes she can take a step back and let Ford be the protector he is trained to be.
Having loved Collette since they were kids Ford made the hard decision to leave her behind to protect her but never told her the reason. Collette is upset when Ford returns but they are both keeping secretes from each other that they have both had since they were teenagers.
The whole group (SEAL team) eventually comes together to help Ford put a bully in her place, while earning some clout, but also save the people he loves and cares about the most.
Favorite quote
“Nobody stabbed Ford but me. Especially with my own knife.”
July 7, 2025
This series just keeps getting better and better! WISHF follows Ford. He finally goes back to his home town after 15 years. Tensions are high as not only does his family have a bit of a grudge but his first and only Love Collette does as well. With the town being bought out by a big wig and Collette and fords family being sworn enemies and Ford determined to get Collette back, he has got his hands full.
Honestly I love Ford and his deep devotion. With this story having themes of Romeo and Juliet. Collette is also awesome and not to be messed with. A lot of miscommunication and lies/secrets but ultimately everything comes out in the end and Ford gets the girls and his family back! I cannot wait for the last book in this story!
Honestly I love Ford and his deep devotion. With this story having themes of Romeo and Juliet. Collette is also awesome and not to be messed with. A lot of miscommunication and lies/secrets but ultimately everything comes out in the end and Ford gets the girls and his family back! I cannot wait for the last book in this story!
July 10, 2025
Great love story, plot was fantastic for me, Lots of uncertainty, but worth the read. I loved how this all came together and how everyone was okay once the truth was revealed. A happy ending, for sure, for those wondering. They were meant for each other, and things happen for a reason, even though it took 15 years for them to find each other again and to appreciate what they had. Ford finally stepped up to the plate and said F-it took charge, and that's what was needed out of all this. I can’t wait for an audible version to come out. I highly recommend this book. It can be read as a standalone alone but I would recommend reading the entire series as they all link with each other, with each Character and how they all came together. I do not recommend it for younger readers, 17 and up.
June 20, 2025
I’m loving this series, I absolutely loved Ford and Colette’s story. They had a Romeo and Juliet retelling, done really well. After a whirlwind hidden relationship as teenagers until he left for years. Ford came back when there was trouble hitting the town he grew up in. I love Colette’s fire and how she didn’t take crap from anyone. They both had secrets they thought would ruin the others feelings. The plot was fast paced and action packed, I couldn’t put the book down. I enjoyed the rest of the team and they brought some humour with their antics. I can’t wait for the final book for the team.
June 27, 2025
I love this series by R.L Atkinson. These interconnected standalones are best read in order, but can be read as truly standalones. Ford returns to his hometown to help his parents who are struggling. There's a rich man trying to buy out everyone in town. And he'll stop and nothing to take down Fords one and only love and her family. Only Collette has seen or heard from Ford in 15 years. He left her behind and hasn't been back. She moved on, at least she says she has. There are secrets being kept and these two long lost loves won't be able to be together until they're all out in the open. No matter how painful they are.
June 28, 2025
Rating ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice 🌶️
Ford and Colette spry of second chances coming back. 15 years ago Ford made a choice so Colette would not have to. But when MawMaw calls Ford to return to his roots he knows he has to go. What he doesn’t know is the secrets and suspense that awaits him. From the mysterious land dealer to the secrets Colette kept there is so much to see and learn.
Great continuing of this series!! This was way more heart than heat but so well done! Loved it and I am ready to see what is next.
#whatishouldhavefelt #rlatkinsonauthor #secondchance #militaryromance #suspense #mystery #secretsuncovered
Spice 🌶️
Ford and Colette spry of second chances coming back. 15 years ago Ford made a choice so Colette would not have to. But when MawMaw calls Ford to return to his roots he knows he has to go. What he doesn’t know is the secrets and suspense that awaits him. From the mysterious land dealer to the secrets Colette kept there is so much to see and learn.
Great continuing of this series!! This was way more heart than heat but so well done! Loved it and I am ready to see what is next.
#whatishouldhavefelt #rlatkinsonauthor #secondchance #militaryromance #suspense #mystery #secretsuncovered
July 8, 2025
Loved, loved, loved this book. I thought the story was great. This was a very fast, easy to read story left with drama, violence, action and love. I really enjoyed how there were so many old memories brought back to life and new memories. There was a good amount of action which I always enjoy, and I really like R.L. Atkinson writing style. This is a military, small town, coming home, making up for lost time. I think it was a perfect story telling of a rift between two families that can tear someone apart but, in the end, they can come back together when the truth finally comes out. Highly recommend this series.
I received this e-book as an arc in exchange for an honest review.
I received this e-book as an arc in exchange for an honest review.
June 27, 2025
I can’t express how much I LOVED this book!!!! 💚 There are SO MANY THINGS I want to talk about but I won’t becuz I don’t want to spoil anything. SO I’ll start by saying this book had me from the start, I wanted to know what happened, it had me laughing, teary eyed, questioning what was really going on, mind blowing moments and hell yeah moments and there deff was a time where it had me screaming out loud: “I FKKING KNEW IT!!!!” My hubby was definitely giving me those side eyes 😂 But seriously this book was so well done, not only the story and how everything unfolded but the characters were top notch!!! Esp, Ford, 🥵 From the start I knew I was going to love him and the more I read the more I loved him, he is literally the best 😍 I read this book in one sitting because it was just that good, I was never bored or felt like anything was dragged on. This book was good mixture of action and story, and within the story is was filled with so much, it had the love, the heartache, the sexual tension, and so much more. This book deff had me in my emotions but in the best way and that’s what I love about R.L. Atkinson writing, I don’t care that her books are more on the low spice level because the stories and the characters of her books are what capture my heart 🫶🏼
*ARC Was Sent To Me To Review, Thoughts & Opinions Are My Own*
*ARC Was Sent To Me To Review, Thoughts & Opinions Are My Own*
June 27, 2025
5⭐️ 3🌶️
This is a book I have been waiting for!!! I have read every single one of the Anchors and Eagles and books but Ford was one of my favorites in each book so I was BEYOND excited to read this one! It give all the background and information to help understand why he is the way he is and it shows how much his life changed just by going home for the first time in 15 years!! I love the relationship redevelopment between Ford and Colette and even his relationship with Azelie is amazing! I love most things RLAtkinson writes but this one is one of my new favorites!!
This is a book I have been waiting for!!! I have read every single one of the Anchors and Eagles and books but Ford was one of my favorites in each book so I was BEYOND excited to read this one! It give all the background and information to help understand why he is the way he is and it shows how much his life changed just by going home for the first time in 15 years!! I love the relationship redevelopment between Ford and Colette and even his relationship with Azelie is amazing! I love most things RLAtkinson writes but this one is one of my new favorites!!
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