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Promise Me #3
Far From Destined
New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Carrie Ann Ryan continues her sexy new contemporary stand-alone series with a broken heart and the shattered soul that can heal them both.
Macon Brady remembers every moment he lay on the ground, a bullet in his chest, his life bleeding out with each pulse. Yet his nightmares aren’t the only thing keeping him up at night.
Dakota Bristol left her ex with nothing but the clothes on her back and her child in her arms. She’s been hurt before and wants nothing to do with the shadows in Macon’s eyes. The problem? Her son loves him, and the more time she spends with the man, the more she’s afraid she’ll come to love him just as much.
Danger always comes back to haunt those who run. It was a lesson Dakota learned before. Now, it might be the man she refuses to fall for who makes the greatest sacrifice of all.
Macon Brady remembers every moment he lay on the ground, a bullet in his chest, his life bleeding out with each pulse. Yet his nightmares aren’t the only thing keeping him up at night.
Dakota Bristol left her ex with nothing but the clothes on her back and her child in her arms. She’s been hurt before and wants nothing to do with the shadows in Macon’s eyes. The problem? Her son loves him, and the more time she spends with the man, the more she’s afraid she’ll come to love him just as much.
Danger always comes back to haunt those who run. It was a lesson Dakota learned before. Now, it might be the man she refuses to fall for who makes the greatest sacrifice of all.
308 pages, Paperback
First published October 27, 2020
245 people are currently reading
3183 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Ann Ryan
277 books6,352 followersCarrie Ann Ryan is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary, paranormal, and young adult romance. Her works include the Montgomery Ink, Talon Pack, Promise Me, and Elements of Five series, which have sold millions of books worldwide. She's the winner of a RT Book of the Year and a Prism Award in her genres. She started writing while in graduate school for her advanced degree in chemistry and hasn’t stopped since. Carrie Ann has written over seventy-five novels and novellas with more in the works. When she’s not losing herself in her emotional and action-packed worlds, she’s reading as much as she can while wrangling her clowder of cats who have more followers than she does.
The Montgomery Ink World contains the following series, though each series is a stand alone and can be read in any order. Feel free to hop around:
The Montgomery Ink Series
The Gallagher Brothers Series
The Montgomery Ink: Colorado Springs Series
The Whiskey and Lies Series
The Fractured Connections Series
The Montgomery Ink: Boulder Series
The Less Than Series
The Promise Me Series
Her Elements of Five Series is her Young Adult Romance series while her other series are all adult.
Her Talon Pack series is set in the same world as the Redwood Pack series, only 30 years later.
The Dante's Circle, Holiday, Montana, and Branded Packs series are all individual series as well.
The Montgomery Ink World contains the following series, though each series is a stand alone and can be read in any order. Feel free to hop around:
The Montgomery Ink Series
The Gallagher Brothers Series
The Montgomery Ink: Colorado Springs Series
The Whiskey and Lies Series
The Fractured Connections Series
The Montgomery Ink: Boulder Series
The Less Than Series
The Promise Me Series
Her Elements of Five Series is her Young Adult Romance series while her other series are all adult.
Her Talon Pack series is set in the same world as the Redwood Pack series, only 30 years later.
The Dante's Circle, Holiday, Montana, and Branded Packs series are all individual series as well.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 218 reviews
October 27, 2020
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Amazon US * Amazon UK
Macon and Dakota had a complicated relationship and connection which was made impossible to ignore since they were constantly being thrown together by their friends and family. Macon was still dealing with the attack that left him with nightmares while Dakota still felt like she was living her nightmare and had a hard time trusting people.
I liked that they didn't fall into a relationship really easily though and we got to see them both grow as characters and have a gradual connection that grew stronger with each passing page. It was captivating to read and try to find out when they would finally give in to each other and it definitely kept me interested the entire time reading.
Overall, the characters were very easy to like, the story was intriguing and had a nice pace to it, and its a book I would definitely recommend. I do think it could be read as a standalone but I would recommend reading the series in order to truly get to know all the characters and how they became such a close group.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
Amazon US * Amazon UK
Macon and Dakota had a complicated relationship and connection which was made impossible to ignore since they were constantly being thrown together by their friends and family. Macon was still dealing with the attack that left him with nightmares while Dakota still felt like she was living her nightmare and had a hard time trusting people.
I liked that they didn't fall into a relationship really easily though and we got to see them both grow as characters and have a gradual connection that grew stronger with each passing page. It was captivating to read and try to find out when they would finally give in to each other and it definitely kept me interested the entire time reading.
Overall, the characters were very easy to like, the story was intriguing and had a nice pace to it, and its a book I would definitely recommend. I do think it could be read as a standalone but I would recommend reading the series in order to truly get to know all the characters and how they became such a close group.
ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review.
October 31, 2020
I don’t know about you, but one of my favorite tropes is single parent romance. I love when characters find love again—even if it takes a bit of dirty play by friends and family to make it happen.
From the very first book in this fantastic Promise Me series, I’ve been extremely intrigued by both Macon and Dakota. I was dying to know their pasts—especially Dakota’s—and see where they ended up romantically. And, wow, I was so not disappointed.
Dakota survived a horrible relationship—taking nothing but her son with her when she finally got out. And Macon’s been trying to overcome the terrible injury to both his body and mind when Hazel was kidnapped. Both of them had a lot of emotional healing to do—and they both had to try to put their pasts behind them to move on.
I loved the spark that built between Dakota and Macon. Well, more like a raging inferno once it ignited. And their friendship and romance just moved quickly once they got to know each other and what motivated and drove them to be the people they were. Of course, they never would have gotten together without a whole lot of interference from Hazel, Paris, and Myra, and of course Macon’s brothers, Cross, Prior, and Nate.
I loved Far From Destined from start to finish and cannot wait to read Myra and Nate’s story next. From the pieces that have been revealed so far, From Our First is going to be epic. ~ Missy, 5 stars
From the very first book in this fantastic Promise Me series, I’ve been extremely intrigued by both Macon and Dakota. I was dying to know their pasts—especially Dakota’s—and see where they ended up romantically. And, wow, I was so not disappointed.
Dakota survived a horrible relationship—taking nothing but her son with her when she finally got out. And Macon’s been trying to overcome the terrible injury to both his body and mind when Hazel was kidnapped. Both of them had a lot of emotional healing to do—and they both had to try to put their pasts behind them to move on.
I loved the spark that built between Dakota and Macon. Well, more like a raging inferno once it ignited. And their friendship and romance just moved quickly once they got to know each other and what motivated and drove them to be the people they were. Of course, they never would have gotten together without a whole lot of interference from Hazel, Paris, and Myra, and of course Macon’s brothers, Cross, Prior, and Nate.
I loved Far From Destined from start to finish and cannot wait to read Myra and Nate’s story next. From the pieces that have been revealed so far, From Our First is going to be epic. ~ Missy, 5 stars
October 27, 2020
Macon Brady has had a tough go of things lately and that's putting it mildly. My heart broke for him and to be honest I didn't know where all the hostility from Dakota came from for a while but I slowly began to understand where she was coming from. Being a single mom of Joshua, Dakota had to run a tight ship so she didn't fall behind on anything, but things seem to be falling apart all around her. Macon and Dakota aren't friends but they aren't enemies either, they are kinda thrown together because two of Macon's brothers are in a relationship with Dakota's friends.
Read my full book review here: https://bit.ly/NBReviewFfD
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**
You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
Read my full book review here: https://bit.ly/NBReviewFfD
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**You can find me here: https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic
October 23, 2020
I am inlove with this series and this family and friends. And even though I know the last book is coming up I don’t want it to end ☹
I knew that Macon’s story would be my favorite. From the first book I loved this quiet man. And I knew he would be perfect for Dakota and Joshua.
Macon wasn’t having a good time right now. He was still getting over being shot and almost dying and the only way he could cope with this was deciding to do some boxing. And being what Dakota went through she was not good with being around him when he was fighting. But both of them couldn’t hide their mutual attraction. So when their friends set them up on a ‘friend date’ that was it.
But unfortunately Dakota’s past wasn’t going to go away anytime soon. And because she is such a strong independent women taking care of her son and running her coffee shop it took a lot from her to lean on her friends and most importantly to lean on Macon.
Like I said I knew Macon would be my favorite and seeing him coping with his trauma and then being there for Dakota even though he was struggling himself I loved it. I loved how he interacted with Joshua as well and he knew Dakota was struggling so he took it slow and on her time. Dakota was amazing. She was strong and independent and also an amazing fierce mother.
Boy oh boy I can’t wait for Nate and Myra’s book especially with that ending 😊 I cant wait…
Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
I knew that Macon’s story would be my favorite. From the first book I loved this quiet man. And I knew he would be perfect for Dakota and Joshua.
Macon wasn’t having a good time right now. He was still getting over being shot and almost dying and the only way he could cope with this was deciding to do some boxing. And being what Dakota went through she was not good with being around him when he was fighting. But both of them couldn’t hide their mutual attraction. So when their friends set them up on a ‘friend date’ that was it.
But unfortunately Dakota’s past wasn’t going to go away anytime soon. And because she is such a strong independent women taking care of her son and running her coffee shop it took a lot from her to lean on her friends and most importantly to lean on Macon.
Like I said I knew Macon would be my favorite and seeing him coping with his trauma and then being there for Dakota even though he was struggling himself I loved it. I loved how he interacted with Joshua as well and he knew Dakota was struggling so he took it slow and on her time. Dakota was amazing. She was strong and independent and also an amazing fierce mother.
Boy oh boy I can’t wait for Nate and Myra’s book especially with that ending 😊 I cant wait…
Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
October 13, 2020
Four and a half stars
Far From Destined is the third in Carrie Ann Ryan's Promise Me series, and is about single mom and coffee-shop owner Dakota Bristol and veterinarian Macon Brady. Their friends are close, so they're thrown together often, and despite themselves, really do enjoy each other's company.
Macon's dealing with the aftermath of a violent attack that left him nearly bleeding out while he desperately fought to protect those he loves. And Dakota's past is unfortunately back to haunt her with vengeance on his mind. Neither of them is really in the market for a relationship, but one kind of sneaks up on them while they're busy resisting their friends' efforts to encourage them.
Carrie Ann Ryan's story is a page-turner, weaving together solid friendships, family, and found-family relationships with Macon and Dakota's growing connection. Far From Destined is a hot, emotionally satisfying read. Macon wins over not only Dakota but her son, and it is a lovely thing indeed to see them come to recognize that they can trust not just the passion between them but the promises they are willing to make. Beautifully done.
Far From Destined is the third in Carrie Ann Ryan's Promise Me series, and is about single mom and coffee-shop owner Dakota Bristol and veterinarian Macon Brady. Their friends are close, so they're thrown together often, and despite themselves, really do enjoy each other's company.
Macon's dealing with the aftermath of a violent attack that left him nearly bleeding out while he desperately fought to protect those he loves. And Dakota's past is unfortunately back to haunt her with vengeance on his mind. Neither of them is really in the market for a relationship, but one kind of sneaks up on them while they're busy resisting their friends' efforts to encourage them.
Carrie Ann Ryan's story is a page-turner, weaving together solid friendships, family, and found-family relationships with Macon and Dakota's growing connection. Far From Destined is a hot, emotionally satisfying read. Macon wins over not only Dakota but her son, and it is a lovely thing indeed to see them come to recognize that they can trust not just the passion between them but the promises they are willing to make. Beautifully done.
October 23, 2020
Veterinarian Macon Brady is broken. He’s survived being shot but it has changed him. Coffee house owner Dakota Bristol is broken too. Her ex did a number on her ego and her heart. These two may just be what the other needs.
This is an engaging and endearing tale that is sure to tug at your heartstrings.
This is an engaging and endearing tale that is sure to tug at your heartstrings.
October 29, 2020
Far From Destined is the third book in the Promise Me series by Carrie Ann Ryan. The series is about four friends who made a pact to go on blind dates set up by the other three and the four Brady brothers who are destined for them. I still find it a little weird that the four friends will end up with a brother each. I am still waiting on Myra and Nate's happy ending. I know it's next, but I am getting impatient here. These two are very mysterious and I want to find out what happened between them especially after the ending of this book.
Macon and Dakota are probably going to be my favorite couple in this series. They didn't exactly start on the right foot, but they made up for it later. Macon almost died from a gunshot wound in Forever Only Once and he is not completely over it yet and I don't blame the guy. Dakota escaped from her abusive ex and she is hesitant to get close to someone who seems violent (which is something Macon did in the beginning of the book). She has her son to think about and that little kid is everything. For once, a kid acted like his age and didn't have an old soul that made him very mature and it earned some points for the book.
To be completely honest, I don't consider the books in the series a true stand-alone because to me it feels like each book is a part of a bigger story that's told a little bit in each book. While each book features another couple, there are a lot of things going on about the other couples, and tiny pieces of their stories are told in all the books. Macon, Dakota, and Joshua had some moments in the previous books that made everything in this book feel very natural.
Dakota and Macon are stubborn people and it took them some time to get over it and admit their feelings for each other. Once they did though it was glorious and I loved seeing them together. Joshua is not forgotten or an afterthought for Dakota and we see him often enough in my opinion.
Overall, I enjoyed the book very much. Dakota and Macon's relationship felt very natural and they were good characters which is all I could ask for. The suspense is also one of the good things about the book. It was just the right amount and it added to the story. I would recommend the book.
Macon and Dakota are probably going to be my favorite couple in this series. They didn't exactly start on the right foot, but they made up for it later. Macon almost died from a gunshot wound in Forever Only Once and he is not completely over it yet and I don't blame the guy. Dakota escaped from her abusive ex and she is hesitant to get close to someone who seems violent (which is something Macon did in the beginning of the book). She has her son to think about and that little kid is everything. For once, a kid acted like his age and didn't have an old soul that made him very mature and it earned some points for the book.
To be completely honest, I don't consider the books in the series a true stand-alone because to me it feels like each book is a part of a bigger story that's told a little bit in each book. While each book features another couple, there are a lot of things going on about the other couples, and tiny pieces of their stories are told in all the books. Macon, Dakota, and Joshua had some moments in the previous books that made everything in this book feel very natural.
Dakota and Macon are stubborn people and it took them some time to get over it and admit their feelings for each other. Once they did though it was glorious and I loved seeing them together. Joshua is not forgotten or an afterthought for Dakota and we see him often enough in my opinion.
Overall, I enjoyed the book very much. Dakota and Macon's relationship felt very natural and they were good characters which is all I could ask for. The suspense is also one of the good things about the book. It was just the right amount and it added to the story. I would recommend the book.
October 26, 2020
Ryan delivers a fast-paced and exciting story. From the beginning, these two interested me. The push and pull, the attraction, the hesitancy, I loved it.
Both Dakota and Macon had scars. Neither are strangers to trauma and have struggled to find a new normal. As part of the same group, it’s impossible to not be around one another. A pact, a blind date, a connection, and the rest is history. When a threat enters the picture and Dakota and her son are in danger, the whole crew, especially Macon do whatever it takes to protect them.
I definitely struggled at the beginning of this story. I hadn’t realized this was part of a series and initially, I felt a bit lost. As the story went on, more was explained and things became clearer. I do wish I had read the others prior, it would have given me a better feel for the characters and the dynamics.
The fast pace of this story kept me engaged. I was eager to see how things would play out between Dakota and Macon and I loved the build of the relationship. When the threat was introduced everything went into overdrive. This aspect completely drew me in. I enjoyed the suspense it created.
I’m looking forward to the next book and going back to read the first two!
October 21, 2020
I’ve really been enjoying this Promise Me series by Carrie Ann Ryan, however I think this story, is one of my favorites and I’ve been waiting for this book. I’ve fallen in love with Macon, Dakota and of course, Joshua. This book did make me a little more anxious than the others with Macon and his nightmares and Dakota trying to figure out what to do next when she finds out news she wasn’t prepared to hear. I like how they’ve become their own little family with the pact sisters and the brady brothers and of course their extended family with the Montgomery’s and the family that Dakota has at Boulder Bean. I also enjoyed Pop, you definitely want her by your side if something comes up. Both of these characters have gone through hard times in their lives and I did enjoy watching their friendship forge into maybe something more and seeing what might happen. Really great story! I’m looking forward to the next book to see what happens with Nate and Myra, especially with Nate having some challenges in this book.
October 28, 2020
I was so excited when Far From Destined by Carrie Ann Ryan hit my kindle. The third story in the Promise Me series and I could not wait to read Macon and Dakota’s story. I would suggest reading this series in order, as though they are about interconnected couple, there is some back story in this one from the first book in the series. I was captivated watching these two interact and see how great Macon was with her son. They tried to deny what they felt, but some things are undeniable.
I loved Macon. He was caring and sweet but haunted with what happened with him. Dakota was smart and determined and set to put her past behind her. But some things you just can’t outrun. As their feelings change, can they find what they truly need in the other before it is too late? I absolutely loved Far From Destined by Carrie Ann Ryan and highly recommend it.
Read and reviewed for Sultry Sirens Book Blog.
Happy reading!
I loved Macon. He was caring and sweet but haunted with what happened with him. Dakota was smart and determined and set to put her past behind her. But some things you just can’t outrun. As their feelings change, can they find what they truly need in the other before it is too late? I absolutely loved Far From Destined by Carrie Ann Ryan and highly recommend it.
Read and reviewed for Sultry Sirens Book Blog.
Happy reading!
October 23, 2020
I thoroughly enjoyed this heart tugging romance. This book is such a wonderful combination of heart, poignancy, emotion and genuineness. Mason and Dakota snuck right into my heart after giving it one epic workout. You had to feel for these two. They each had such heavy baggage they were carrying and painful histories that refused to stay in the past. It is a beautiful and moving story that will also have you feeling that you are perched right on the edge of a precipice, waiting anxiously to see what will happen if and when that fall comes. I am posting an unbiased, volitional review.
October 26, 2020
This is the third book in the Promise Me series, it can be read as a standalone but previous couples are mentioned in the story. Dakota is a single mom and coffee shop owner. She loves her son and her group of friends that have become family. Macon is a veterinarian. He is dealing with the aftermath of a violet attack that he cannot seem to forget and not sure how to move past it. Dakota has a past so there are things that she has after effects on her life. Dakota is up next in the pact and her friends decide that it is time Macon and Dakota get pass their differences and become friendly so they set them up on a date. Dakota and Macon decide they are not looking for a relationship but decide to be friendly.
I found this book to be an emotional roller coaster. Macon and Dakota are both working through issues in their past. They have a rocky road of happiness in their relationship but it was a beautiful journey to read about. They both had great determination as well as strength. I thought the chemistry between them was perfect. I loved how Macon not only won over Dakota but also Joshua, Dakota's son. Overall great story, that grabs your attention and keeps you turning the pages.
~Reemah💜
I found this book to be an emotional roller coaster. Macon and Dakota are both working through issues in their past. They have a rocky road of happiness in their relationship but it was a beautiful journey to read about. They both had great determination as well as strength. I thought the chemistry between them was perfect. I loved how Macon not only won over Dakota but also Joshua, Dakota's son. Overall great story, that grabs your attention and keeps you turning the pages.
~Reemah💜
May 21, 2025
Far From Destined
Exciting, yet traumatic events still haunt Macon, the dreams/nightmares continue. Things from when Hazel was taken still are forefront in his memory, loud noises seem like gunfire! Yet, he still feels like he and Dakota could be a possibility, but she has her own secrets. Can these two come together, open up and share their demons? Beautiful story about opening up your heart, sharing your thoughts, feelings and emotions.
Exciting, yet traumatic events still haunt Macon, the dreams/nightmares continue. Things from when Hazel was taken still are forefront in his memory, loud noises seem like gunfire! Yet, he still feels like he and Dakota could be a possibility, but she has her own secrets. Can these two come together, open up and share their demons? Beautiful story about opening up your heart, sharing your thoughts, feelings and emotions.
October 21, 2020
So loved these two. Mason and Dakota Both have had previous tragic experiences that they are trying to cope with and both struggling to be happy, while moving forward. They fight with each other and their attraction because neither feels they have anything to give another person. Once they begin to live on the moment it feels so natural it was like the had been together always. A life altering moments forces both to open their hearts and life for good. I so loved this book!!!!!
October 13, 2020
Ahh, that ending and bonus epilogue gave me all the warm and happies! I mean, thank goddess because Dakota and Macon had put me through the wringer. Both so independent yet you could see they needed help so much. Both pushing others away, not wanting to be a burden. Both ignoring and actively avoiding the sparks that flared between them. Like all their friends and family, I kept wanting to nudge them, then push them, or trick them, until they got together. They could only hold out so long. The heat between them was amazing and the connection was perfect. And then bad things starting happening, not between them, but to Dakota. The panic Dakota felt, the fear Macon had, it was palpable and radiated off the pages as their big bad presented. These two had such inner strength though and their love only cemented those strengths together. Macon and Dakota ended up together, and happy, with family, and love <3
October 14, 2020
Sooo good. Macon and Dakota knew each other but were always sniping or just not being real friendly. He was trying to deal from his being shot trying to save Hazel and Dakota had secrets she had not told anyone. Her business was thriving, she had nice circle of friends and one darling little 6 year old. Joshua was so precious. You can't help but love him. AS much as I really liked the main characters, Joshua was beyond my favorite. He loves Macon, he wants cats and dogs and is really sweet trying to get them. Some of his little comments made me laugh out loud. Great writing. Can't wait for Myra and Nate's story
I got this book from the author for an honest review
I got this book from the author for an honest review
October 26, 2020
The Heart Always Wins!!!
Macon Brady had been having nightmares that kept him up at night after what he went through at the hands of his sister-in-law Hazel's ( FOREVER ONLY ONCE ) ex-husband's hands. But that wasn't the only reason he couldn't sleep, there was a smart, beautiful and single mother who caught his eyes, Dakota Bristol.
Dakota Bristol, owner of the Boulder Bean café and a single mother of a six year-old son named Joshua, who left her ex because she couldn't stand the hurt any longer. She was hurt in the past and she didn't want to go through that again. Macon had demons that were haunting him yet she couldn't stay away from the man. Cause her son loved him and the more time she spent with him, she knew she wouldn't be able to keep up her walls.
Macon had some dragons to slay. He was fighting to keep his anger under control. He never wanted to feel helpless ever again, no matter what. Hazel found herself on a friendly date with the man she was trying to avoid. There was a deep attraction between them and it scared her.
There was danger lurking around, when Dakota's past came back to haunt her. She realized that she wasn't alone, no matter what she thought. She was loved by her friends, her son and her customers. And the man she'd lost her heart to.
Macon and Dakota became so much more than friends, they were lovers, partners and equals. They helped each other fight their demons. The way they complemented each other was done beautifully. Along with Joshua and some new additions, they got their HEA. They were family.
FAR FROM DESTINED is the third installment in Carrie Ann Ryan's PROMISE ME series. It was heartwarming, intoxicating and a fantastic read. Carrie Ann did it again. Magnificent! 5++++
****I received this book, without any obligation to review.****
****Characters icons & teasers courtesy of Carrie Ann Ryan.****
Macon Brady had been having nightmares that kept him up at night after what he went through at the hands of his sister-in-law Hazel's ( FOREVER ONLY ONCE ) ex-husband's hands. But that wasn't the only reason he couldn't sleep, there was a smart, beautiful and single mother who caught his eyes, Dakota Bristol.
Dakota Bristol, owner of the Boulder Bean café and a single mother of a six year-old son named Joshua, who left her ex because she couldn't stand the hurt any longer. She was hurt in the past and she didn't want to go through that again. Macon had demons that were haunting him yet she couldn't stay away from the man. Cause her son loved him and the more time she spent with him, she knew she wouldn't be able to keep up her walls.
Macon had some dragons to slay. He was fighting to keep his anger under control. He never wanted to feel helpless ever again, no matter what. Hazel found herself on a friendly date with the man she was trying to avoid. There was a deep attraction between them and it scared her.
There was danger lurking around, when Dakota's past came back to haunt her. She realized that she wasn't alone, no matter what she thought. She was loved by her friends, her son and her customers. And the man she'd lost her heart to.
Macon and Dakota became so much more than friends, they were lovers, partners and equals. They helped each other fight their demons. The way they complemented each other was done beautifully. Along with Joshua and some new additions, they got their HEA. They were family.
FAR FROM DESTINED is the third installment in Carrie Ann Ryan's PROMISE ME series. It was heartwarming, intoxicating and a fantastic read. Carrie Ann did it again. Magnificent! 5++++
****I received this book, without any obligation to review.****
****Characters icons & teasers courtesy of Carrie Ann Ryan.****
July 25, 2023
Sucks but I just didn't enjoy this one all that much. I mean it was fine in places but it was eyerolling in most of the other places.
This sometimes happens when I binge series like this so it might not be Macon and Dakota's fault.
Although...
Dakota really annoyed me. I just didn't like her at all. I still don't even know what her problem with Macon was at the beginning. She liked him too much? But even that didn't make sense because she was talking about how he set her teeth on edge and not like butterflies or whatever. And she was just so rude, not just to Macon (but the way she warned him away from Joshua was awful) but to everyone who tried to help her. Yes, I get she had trust issues but that can only be forgiven so many times.
Then when they all got their heads out of their ass and the massive drama with the quite frankly ridiculous over the top villain, they become a family in like 30 seconds. Joshua literally calls Macon dad before Macon and Dakota are ever an official couple as far as he is concerned. So Dakota spends most of the book trying to protect her son from getting hurt emotionally by having a man in her life and then does a 180 in an instant? It was weird.
And don't get me started on all the negative reactions to Macon boxing. It was so silly. You'd think he'd been out kicking puppies.
Going to finish my Carrie Ann Ryan binge with From Our First. I don't have very high hopes because I don't think I like Myra and I'm no a huge fan of their trope but I want to square off this series. I will be adding some of her other books to my tbr though as I've enjoyed the others a lot and I think they'd be that perfect Sunday afternoon comfort books that I like to have on hand.
This sometimes happens when I binge series like this so it might not be Macon and Dakota's fault.
Although...
Dakota really annoyed me. I just didn't like her at all. I still don't even know what her problem with Macon was at the beginning. She liked him too much? But even that didn't make sense because she was talking about how he set her teeth on edge and not like butterflies or whatever. And she was just so rude, not just to Macon (but the way she warned him away from Joshua was awful) but to everyone who tried to help her. Yes, I get she had trust issues but that can only be forgiven so many times.
Then when they all got their heads out of their ass and the massive drama with the quite frankly ridiculous over the top villain, they become a family in like 30 seconds. Joshua literally calls Macon dad before Macon and Dakota are ever an official couple as far as he is concerned. So Dakota spends most of the book trying to protect her son from getting hurt emotionally by having a man in her life and then does a 180 in an instant? It was weird.
And don't get me started on all the negative reactions to Macon boxing. It was so silly. You'd think he'd been out kicking puppies.
Going to finish my Carrie Ann Ryan binge with From Our First. I don't have very high hopes because I don't think I like Myra and I'm no a huge fan of their trope but I want to square off this series. I will be adding some of her other books to my tbr though as I've enjoyed the others a lot and I think they'd be that perfect Sunday afternoon comfort books that I like to have on hand.
October 28, 2020
So going into this one you knew it would be Macon and Dakota, but one or both of them would fight it. I was a bit surprised that Macon didn't fight harder than he did, yet was glad for it too. I think their friends and family took the right route to sort of force them together, but not in any type of romantic way, just to have them get a base friendship started as the two groups mingle so much and things wouldn't be awkward and of course it turned to romance fairly quickly. I was happy that Dakota let herself have this, she needed more in her life and seemed to be in a place where she was ready for more too. Macon was sneaky at times by taking advantage of the help that Dakota needed to be around her more, hello kittens and no more babysitters. It worked out for them both and later when Dakota really needed support it was natural for her to turn to Macon. The drama at the end had me holding my breath...really could have done with out that, but loved how everyone was there and helped save themselves. But I think the best part of this one was the talk that Macon and Joshua had after, about how they both saw things changing for them, they just had to get Dakota to their side.
October 22, 2020
5 star review Far From Destined (Promise Me #3) by Carrie Ann Ryan
I know this is hard to believe but Carrie Ann Ryan is a relatively new author to me and I have no idea hwy that is. I was drawn in to Macon Brady and Dakota Bristol’s story and I had a hard time putting it down.
What an emotional roller coast of a read this one was. Both Macon and Dakota are trying to come to terms with their pasts and yet when it comes back to haunt them, they will both dig deep and come together to overcome what fate has put in their path.
The chemistry between them is intense and too hard to resist and when they come together it is explosive. Their road to happiness will be rocky, but they journey will bring them together and forge a strong bond. The strength, determination and courage that they need was huge and I was really cheering for these two to get the happily ever after they both deserve.
I know this is hard to believe but Carrie Ann Ryan is a relatively new author to me and I have no idea hwy that is. I was drawn in to Macon Brady and Dakota Bristol’s story and I had a hard time putting it down.
What an emotional roller coast of a read this one was. Both Macon and Dakota are trying to come to terms with their pasts and yet when it comes back to haunt them, they will both dig deep and come together to overcome what fate has put in their path.
The chemistry between them is intense and too hard to resist and when they come together it is explosive. Their road to happiness will be rocky, but they journey will bring them together and forge a strong bond. The strength, determination and courage that they need was huge and I was really cheering for these two to get the happily ever after they both deserve.
January 3, 2021
2.5 stars
I’m really not sure why I downloaded this book other than I was desperate for my next book fix like a heroin addict craves his next hit and a story with a little romance and danger mixed in involving a single mom and her son sounded interesting. It’s not that I hadn’t read Carrie Ann Ryan before or hadn’t enjoyed her stories. She’s just not one of my go to favorite authors and not being on Kindle Unlimited drops her down a notch in my search order when I’m searching for something to read. When you read three or four books a week you have to count your pennies.
My usual M.O. is to start a series from the first book and then work forward from there. Far From Destined is Ryan’s 3rd book in her Promise series. It became quickly apparent that even though this story was intended (as most are) to be okay to read as a standalone I was already at a disadvantage from the start. I felt like being at a party where everyone knew everyone but me. Unfortunately the feeling that I didn’t know enough about the stories in the previous books never left me. Our hero Macon Brady was involved in some sort of shooting that also involved others that changed his life leaving him with a serious case of PTSD. These others are friends with our heroine Dakota Bristol a young single mom who owns and runs the Boulder Bean coffee shop. As the story opens its clear that Macon and Dakota have some history in the previous books but aren't on the best of terms even before Macon sows up at her coffer shop with bloody knuckles and a bruised face. The fact that I didn't know why Dakota was uncomfortable around Macon frustrated me. I understand the author couldn't repeat the entire stories from the first two books in the series into this one but I think she could have given us more of the backstories and sooner than she did since she kept referring back to the shooting and how it affected Macon without ever really explaining how it all came about beyond it involved Hazel and his brother Cross's former business partner.
Macon is a veterinarian whom as I said had in a previous book been shot trying to protect Hazel, now his brother Cross’s girlfriend. (Other than the youngest Nate, all the Brady siblings, Cross, Prior, Macon and Arden have unusual names as do some of the heroines like Hazel, Myra and Paris.) Macon was a great guy, I know he struggled with PTSD but beyond that I never understood why he felt he wasn’t worthy of Dakota and her son Joshua’s love? Throughout the story even after Macon and Dakota got together they both seemed to be pessimistically fearing their relationship would fail even though forming a family felt natural and easy. I never really understood why? Dakota in particular had a very sad back story but nothing I read told me that before they got together either had been in a relationship where they’d had their hearts broken. Yet both seemed to be afraid to trust the happiness they brought into each other’s lives. A good two-thirds of the story is Macon and Dakota gradually accepting their feelings for each other and Dakota learning to trust Macon and tear down the walls she’d built to protect her heart. The rest is Macon and their friends banding together to protect Dakota and Joshua from Adam her abusive ex who is now out of prison and threatening her and Joshua. We also got to hear all the other characters constantly reassuring Dakota that she was alone and didn't have to do everything by herself.
The basic plot outline for this story, the relationship between Macon and Dakota, each overcoming their personal issues to come together and the threat from Adam was good. There was much to like about both Macon, Dakota and their group of friends. There were just to many holes in the story and too much that was hard to believe for me to rate it any higher than 2.5 stars.
I’m really not sure why I downloaded this book other than I was desperate for my next book fix like a heroin addict craves his next hit and a story with a little romance and danger mixed in involving a single mom and her son sounded interesting. It’s not that I hadn’t read Carrie Ann Ryan before or hadn’t enjoyed her stories. She’s just not one of my go to favorite authors and not being on Kindle Unlimited drops her down a notch in my search order when I’m searching for something to read. When you read three or four books a week you have to count your pennies.
My usual M.O. is to start a series from the first book and then work forward from there. Far From Destined is Ryan’s 3rd book in her Promise series. It became quickly apparent that even though this story was intended (as most are) to be okay to read as a standalone I was already at a disadvantage from the start. I felt like being at a party where everyone knew everyone but me. Unfortunately the feeling that I didn’t know enough about the stories in the previous books never left me. Our hero Macon Brady was involved in some sort of shooting that also involved others that changed his life leaving him with a serious case of PTSD. These others are friends with our heroine Dakota Bristol a young single mom who owns and runs the Boulder Bean coffee shop. As the story opens its clear that Macon and Dakota have some history in the previous books but aren't on the best of terms even before Macon sows up at her coffer shop with bloody knuckles and a bruised face. The fact that I didn't know why Dakota was uncomfortable around Macon frustrated me. I understand the author couldn't repeat the entire stories from the first two books in the series into this one but I think she could have given us more of the backstories and sooner than she did since she kept referring back to the shooting and how it affected Macon without ever really explaining how it all came about beyond it involved Hazel and his brother Cross's former business partner.
Macon is a veterinarian whom as I said had in a previous book been shot trying to protect Hazel, now his brother Cross’s girlfriend. (Other than the youngest Nate, all the Brady siblings, Cross, Prior, Macon and Arden have unusual names as do some of the heroines like Hazel, Myra and Paris.) Macon was a great guy, I know he struggled with PTSD but beyond that I never understood why he felt he wasn’t worthy of Dakota and her son Joshua’s love? Throughout the story even after Macon and Dakota got together they both seemed to be pessimistically fearing their relationship would fail even though forming a family felt natural and easy. I never really understood why? Dakota in particular had a very sad back story but nothing I read told me that before they got together either had been in a relationship where they’d had their hearts broken. Yet both seemed to be afraid to trust the happiness they brought into each other’s lives. A good two-thirds of the story is Macon and Dakota gradually accepting their feelings for each other and Dakota learning to trust Macon and tear down the walls she’d built to protect her heart. The rest is Macon and their friends banding together to protect Dakota and Joshua from Adam her abusive ex who is now out of prison and threatening her and Joshua. We also got to hear all the other characters constantly reassuring Dakota that she was alone and didn't have to do everything by herself.
The basic plot outline for this story, the relationship between Macon and Dakota, each overcoming their personal issues to come together and the threat from Adam was good. There was much to like about both Macon, Dakota and their group of friends. There were just to many holes in the story and too much that was hard to believe for me to rate it any higher than 2.5 stars.
October 22, 2020
Far From Destined is the third book in The Promise Me series by the lovely Carrie Ann Ryan and what a tear jerker it is. Far From Destined can be read as a standalone, but I do think reading the first two in the series will help the reader understand the characters and also give them the back story so they may understand where the current book starts.
I have been loving this series, I love the sisterhood the pact sisters have and don’t even get me started on the Brady Brothers. We see more of previous characters from past books, which is always super interesting, seeing what they are up to. The more I read this series, the more I wanted from it.
Macon Brady.
Brooding veterinarian, survivor of bullet wounds and all-time alpha male with a soft spot for family and friends. Macon is troubled, dealing with the aftermath that comes with the scar on his chest, he takes to the one thing that helps; boxing.
Dakota Bristol, single mother and small business owner is trying to give her young son the best life she can. She has good friends that have become family, and now it’s her turn. The Blind date pact is upon her, and she won’t go back on her promise. Her pact sisters have found their partners in the Brady family, and they want her to find hers there as well. In Macon.
Macon the man that her son is clinging to, the man who looks good enough to eat and a lover of all thing’s animals. To bad all they seem to do is snip at each other whenever they are in ear reach. Both characters have been through so much, each has their own fears to work through as the story lines progresses. Macon gets under Dakota’s skins and it turns out, she likes him there. When Dakota’s past, in the form of her abusive ex makes an appearance, Macon will stop at nothing to keep his new family safe.
Wow! Carrie Ann Ryan out did herself in this one. Today’s generalizations of men teach them not to show emotion, to not let a weakness show, they must never be weak. Carrie Ann Ryan chucks that out the window with the Brady Brothers. You feel everything that Macon is going through, the nightmares and the fear. It’s a great story, with even better characters and story line I can’t wait to see fulfilled. I can’t wait to see Myra and Nate, and Pop, I LOVE her! Four and a half stars for this glorious read!
I have been loving this series, I love the sisterhood the pact sisters have and don’t even get me started on the Brady Brothers. We see more of previous characters from past books, which is always super interesting, seeing what they are up to. The more I read this series, the more I wanted from it.
Macon Brady.
Brooding veterinarian, survivor of bullet wounds and all-time alpha male with a soft spot for family and friends. Macon is troubled, dealing with the aftermath that comes with the scar on his chest, he takes to the one thing that helps; boxing.
Dakota Bristol, single mother and small business owner is trying to give her young son the best life she can. She has good friends that have become family, and now it’s her turn. The Blind date pact is upon her, and she won’t go back on her promise. Her pact sisters have found their partners in the Brady family, and they want her to find hers there as well. In Macon.
Macon the man that her son is clinging to, the man who looks good enough to eat and a lover of all thing’s animals. To bad all they seem to do is snip at each other whenever they are in ear reach. Both characters have been through so much, each has their own fears to work through as the story lines progresses. Macon gets under Dakota’s skins and it turns out, she likes him there. When Dakota’s past, in the form of her abusive ex makes an appearance, Macon will stop at nothing to keep his new family safe.
Wow! Carrie Ann Ryan out did herself in this one. Today’s generalizations of men teach them not to show emotion, to not let a weakness show, they must never be weak. Carrie Ann Ryan chucks that out the window with the Brady Brothers. You feel everything that Macon is going through, the nightmares and the fear. It’s a great story, with even better characters and story line I can’t wait to see fulfilled. I can’t wait to see Myra and Nate, and Pop, I LOVE her! Four and a half stars for this glorious read!
October 26, 2020
4.5 stars
Macon Brady almost lost his life, and carries both the scars and the nightmares as a result. He knows how precious life is, but he also can’t help but think his hangups now make him a dangerous partner.
Dakota Bristol has a very full schedule, between running her coffee shop and raising her son on her own, she works very hard for everything in her life. She has a tight knit group around her, her friends and employees, but doesn’t have family around her to help out. As part of the pact her friends made, she is to be set up on a blind date to give her a break from her hectic schedule. She is less than enthused though, so when Macon offers to be a practice date, she accepts hoping it will get her friends to move on.
I loved watching these two together. This was a sweet story, with a little bit of suspense involved. Macon wants to make these fake dates into the real thing and knows he wants to build a family with Dakota and her son. Dakota is wary of relationships because she has been burned hard, and her decisions from the past seem to be coming back to haunt her in ways she never imagined.
I always love diving back into the world of Carrie Ann Ryan’s familial series. It doesn’t matter if it’s the Montgomery’s, the Brady’s, or any branch of the family trees. While this series is ostensibly tied together by the women, the Bradley siblings are at the core, with the second brother tied up in the Pact. The side characters not tied directly to the Brady’s were some of my favorite additions of this book though. Dakota’s employees (and friends) gave the best pushes to get her out of her shell and offer support especially in the times she wasn’t willing to reach out herself.
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Macon Brady almost lost his life, and carries both the scars and the nightmares as a result. He knows how precious life is, but he also can’t help but think his hangups now make him a dangerous partner.
Dakota Bristol has a very full schedule, between running her coffee shop and raising her son on her own, she works very hard for everything in her life. She has a tight knit group around her, her friends and employees, but doesn’t have family around her to help out. As part of the pact her friends made, she is to be set up on a blind date to give her a break from her hectic schedule. She is less than enthused though, so when Macon offers to be a practice date, she accepts hoping it will get her friends to move on.
I loved watching these two together. This was a sweet story, with a little bit of suspense involved. Macon wants to make these fake dates into the real thing and knows he wants to build a family with Dakota and her son. Dakota is wary of relationships because she has been burned hard, and her decisions from the past seem to be coming back to haunt her in ways she never imagined.
I always love diving back into the world of Carrie Ann Ryan’s familial series. It doesn’t matter if it’s the Montgomery’s, the Brady’s, or any branch of the family trees. While this series is ostensibly tied together by the women, the Bradley siblings are at the core, with the second brother tied up in the Pact. The side characters not tied directly to the Brady’s were some of my favorite additions of this book though. Dakota’s employees (and friends) gave the best pushes to get her out of her shell and offer support especially in the times she wasn’t willing to reach out herself.
October 29, 2020
In this third addition of this series we get Macon and Dakota's story. Where it can be read as a standalone story, it would be helpful to read the other books in the series so that one is more familiar with the supporting characters and previous events that are referenced in this book.
So we get a deeper understanding of Macon and how his life has changed after being the victim of a shooting. He has anger issues and PTSD with a side of nightmares that he is working through with the assistance of a therapist and through boxing. He has had feelings for Dakota and her son Joshua but has not pursued them.
In this book we also learn more about Dakota and her troubled past and her fierce determination to be as independent as possible. We were able to get a better understanding of her as a person and her determination not rely on others as she has been let down by others in the past that were supposed to be caretakers for her and ended up abandoning her in the end. We also see her realistic struggles with juggling being a single parent and business owner that are relatable to.
Both of these characters were well written characters that one can relate to. They both have a strong support system that they at times refused to utilize. At times, I could sympathize with Dakota's feelings that others were taking over her life while at the same time I wanted to yell at her that there was nothing wrong with accepting help from others. I also liked the close dynamic of Macon's family. Where they have their sibling issues, it was a great support for Macon. I enjoyed the return of the characters from the previous books in the series as they do play important intertwining rolls for both main characters.
The plot of this story moved along well and kept me interested to see what would happen next. It was at times action packed and showed the high emotions of the situations that the characters have experienced in the past and present.
In the audio version of this book, the narrators Jason Clarke and Emma Wilder did a great job bringing this book to life. The pair made this book entertaining listening experience.
Overall, this was a good book and a good addition to this series that I would recommend to others.
So we get a deeper understanding of Macon and how his life has changed after being the victim of a shooting. He has anger issues and PTSD with a side of nightmares that he is working through with the assistance of a therapist and through boxing. He has had feelings for Dakota and her son Joshua but has not pursued them.
In this book we also learn more about Dakota and her troubled past and her fierce determination to be as independent as possible. We were able to get a better understanding of her as a person and her determination not rely on others as she has been let down by others in the past that were supposed to be caretakers for her and ended up abandoning her in the end. We also see her realistic struggles with juggling being a single parent and business owner that are relatable to.
Both of these characters were well written characters that one can relate to. They both have a strong support system that they at times refused to utilize. At times, I could sympathize with Dakota's feelings that others were taking over her life while at the same time I wanted to yell at her that there was nothing wrong with accepting help from others. I also liked the close dynamic of Macon's family. Where they have their sibling issues, it was a great support for Macon. I enjoyed the return of the characters from the previous books in the series as they do play important intertwining rolls for both main characters.
The plot of this story moved along well and kept me interested to see what would happen next. It was at times action packed and showed the high emotions of the situations that the characters have experienced in the past and present.
In the audio version of this book, the narrators Jason Clarke and Emma Wilder did a great job bringing this book to life. The pair made this book entertaining listening experience.
Overall, this was a good book and a good addition to this series that I would recommend to others.
November 10, 2020
I've been looking forward to Macon's story if you've read or listened to the earlier books you will already know that he feels drawn to Dakota and already has a strong bond with her son Joshua. In this book, he gets his chance to finally get close to her but will he break through her walls?
This is the third instalment in the Promise Me series, part of the Montgomery Ink universe. Dakota's one of four single friends who have made a pact to set each other up on blind dates, All of them has difficult pasts which only make you more hopeful that they will in fact find their HEA and this time it's her turn to be fixed up.
Macon's having a hard time mentally recovering from being shot when he tried to save Hazel from her crazy ex-husband (Forever Only Once). He has nightmares remembering every moment from that terrible time, laying on the ground, a bullet in his chest, bleeding out expecting to die. His way of coping is to box but he knows he can't keep doing it because one day he'll get hurt or hurt someone else.
Dakota's story is one of pulling herself up from nothing, she had terrible parents and an ex who abused her. He ended up in prison and she was left with only the clothes on her back and the child she was carrying. She’s determined to never need a man again and is fighting to keep Macon at a distance. But how can she do that when her son loves him? Plus the more time she spends with him the more she finds herself falling in love with him too.
But when danger threatens her and Joshua it's Macon, the man she keeps telling herself she doesn't love, who's prepared to go to any lengths to keep the two people he loves safe. This story is an emotional one as both Macon and Dakota fight their own demons while trying to put on a brave front for Joshua. My heart was breaking especially when Macon opened up to Dakota and she didn't back away. I loved how their bond grew, how Joshua became the glue who helped hold all the pieces together! I loved how Mama Cat and her four babies were woven into the tale, you just knew they had a home!
The narration of this book by Emma Wilder and Jason Clarke is perfection personified, they bring every character and every emotion to life beautifully.
This is the third instalment in the Promise Me series, part of the Montgomery Ink universe. Dakota's one of four single friends who have made a pact to set each other up on blind dates, All of them has difficult pasts which only make you more hopeful that they will in fact find their HEA and this time it's her turn to be fixed up.
Macon's having a hard time mentally recovering from being shot when he tried to save Hazel from her crazy ex-husband (Forever Only Once). He has nightmares remembering every moment from that terrible time, laying on the ground, a bullet in his chest, bleeding out expecting to die. His way of coping is to box but he knows he can't keep doing it because one day he'll get hurt or hurt someone else.
Dakota's story is one of pulling herself up from nothing, she had terrible parents and an ex who abused her. He ended up in prison and she was left with only the clothes on her back and the child she was carrying. She’s determined to never need a man again and is fighting to keep Macon at a distance. But how can she do that when her son loves him? Plus the more time she spends with him the more she finds herself falling in love with him too.
But when danger threatens her and Joshua it's Macon, the man she keeps telling herself she doesn't love, who's prepared to go to any lengths to keep the two people he loves safe. This story is an emotional one as both Macon and Dakota fight their own demons while trying to put on a brave front for Joshua. My heart was breaking especially when Macon opened up to Dakota and she didn't back away. I loved how their bond grew, how Joshua became the glue who helped hold all the pieces together! I loved how Mama Cat and her four babies were woven into the tale, you just knew they had a home!
The narration of this book by Emma Wilder and Jason Clarke is perfection personified, they bring every character and every emotion to life beautifully.
March 1, 2021
Macon Brady is a boxer and veterinarian who almost died after he was shot and he continues to fight the demons from that incident. He tries to move on but finds himself back in the ring to try and deal with the mounting pressures that he feels.
Dakota Bristol is a single mom to Joshua, 6, and she owns Boulder Bean, a local coffee shop. When her ex, Adam, is released early from prison she has a restraining order placed against him but also knows there isn't anything that will stop him from doing what he wants.
When Dakota and Macon are set up on a blind date sparks fly but both have pasts that they haven't recovered from and with a child involved they are both hesitant. Yet they can't deny their chemistry and begin to form a solid friendship which gradually leads to more.
Can both come to terms with their respective pasts to have a future together?
This was such a good book and I really enjoyed it from start to finish!
I thought Macon was a great character who had lived through a moment that drastically changed who he was. He lived life on the edge and almost tested whether he should have survived being shot. Yet I loved how dedicated he was to his friends and those around him.
Dakota was an awesome character who was an amazing mom who was doing everything she could to protect her son and keep them both safe. I understood why she hated relying on others, especially when it came to her past with Adam.
There was so much chemistry between Dakota and Macon but both had a lot of baggage. I was happy when Dakota opened up to Macon about Adam and how protective he got over both her and Joshua. There were a couple of freaky moments where Macon's past came back to haunt him at unfortunate times and I was really hoping that he would be able to overcome it and not run.
I hated how Adam kept harassing Dakota and I knew that he would unfortunately keep going until something bad happened.
I was so mad at where things went downhill fast and the situation that developed. I was definitely freaking a little as things got intense!! I was very happy when things worked out as they should!
Definitely looking forward to Nate's story next and I am hoping he's ok!
Dakota Bristol is a single mom to Joshua, 6, and she owns Boulder Bean, a local coffee shop. When her ex, Adam, is released early from prison she has a restraining order placed against him but also knows there isn't anything that will stop him from doing what he wants.
When Dakota and Macon are set up on a blind date sparks fly but both have pasts that they haven't recovered from and with a child involved they are both hesitant. Yet they can't deny their chemistry and begin to form a solid friendship which gradually leads to more.
Can both come to terms with their respective pasts to have a future together?
This was such a good book and I really enjoyed it from start to finish!
I thought Macon was a great character who had lived through a moment that drastically changed who he was. He lived life on the edge and almost tested whether he should have survived being shot. Yet I loved how dedicated he was to his friends and those around him.
Dakota was an awesome character who was an amazing mom who was doing everything she could to protect her son and keep them both safe. I understood why she hated relying on others, especially when it came to her past with Adam.
There was so much chemistry between Dakota and Macon but both had a lot of baggage. I was happy when Dakota opened up to Macon about Adam and how protective he got over both her and Joshua. There were a couple of freaky moments where Macon's past came back to haunt him at unfortunate times and I was really hoping that he would be able to overcome it and not run.
I hated how Adam kept harassing Dakota and I knew that he would unfortunately keep going until something bad happened.
I was so mad at where things went downhill fast and the situation that developed. I was definitely freaking a little as things got intense!! I was very happy when things worked out as they should!
Definitely looking forward to Nate's story next and I am hoping he's ok!
October 27, 2020
I have waited with great anticipation for Dakota's story and I wasn't disappointed. There is a reason that Carrie Ann Ryan is a US No 1 best selling author and that is because she delivers great stories!
If you have been following the Promise Me series you know that this set of books are about 3 women who have have made a packed that as they have been single for so long they will find each other blind dates. This is entwined with their friendship with the Brady brothers.
Dakota to me is the most broken of the 3. But don't let her know I said that. After her abusive ex was sent to prison - Dakota had taken her young son Joshua and now has made a life for herself - opened her own coffee and cake shop and has some great friends. The only slight fly in the ointment is Macon Brady resident Vet. The closer her son gets to him the more worried she gets - she has seen the bruises on his face and hands and she doesn't want her son to be around any form of violence only trouble is her heart is telling her something different. Ever since Macon took a bullet for his brothers girlfriend he has been living on the edge, the nightmares still keep coming and the only time he can feel in control is entering the ring and fighting! Gone are the days of falling in with everyone plans something changed in him that night that can never be undone!
Their friends decide to stag and intervention by setting Dakota up with Macon for her blind date, just so they can talk and find middle ground. But as the two get to know each other Dakota knows that who and what she thought about Macon is wrong. Macon know's he want's to be the person that Dakota and Joshua can be proud of. But as the tentative relationship starts to take of Dakota's ex is out of prison and is coming for what he thinks is his!
If you have been following the Promise Me series you know that this set of books are about 3 women who have have made a packed that as they have been single for so long they will find each other blind dates. This is entwined with their friendship with the Brady brothers.
Dakota to me is the most broken of the 3. But don't let her know I said that. After her abusive ex was sent to prison - Dakota had taken her young son Joshua and now has made a life for herself - opened her own coffee and cake shop and has some great friends. The only slight fly in the ointment is Macon Brady resident Vet. The closer her son gets to him the more worried she gets - she has seen the bruises on his face and hands and she doesn't want her son to be around any form of violence only trouble is her heart is telling her something different. Ever since Macon took a bullet for his brothers girlfriend he has been living on the edge, the nightmares still keep coming and the only time he can feel in control is entering the ring and fighting! Gone are the days of falling in with everyone plans something changed in him that night that can never be undone!
Their friends decide to stag and intervention by setting Dakota up with Macon for her blind date, just so they can talk and find middle ground. But as the two get to know each other Dakota knows that who and what she thought about Macon is wrong. Macon know's he want's to be the person that Dakota and Joshua can be proud of. But as the tentative relationship starts to take of Dakota's ex is out of prison and is coming for what he thinks is his!
October 31, 2020
Another engaging, heartwarming addition to the Promise Me series, combining romance, finding family, and a dash of suspense in one great read. I was especially intrigued by Macon, who is still struggling to cope with the aftermath of being shot and nearly dying. He hides his pain from his family, not wanting them to know how much he’s still hurting and how lost he feels, and handling some of his frustration in a way he knows would worry them further. Dakota has managed to get away from a violent ex and has built a wonderful new life for herself and her little boy, Joshua. She senses some of the darkness in Macon and is initially afraid to trust him because of it, even though they both feel drawn to each other. There’s also the added complication of the bond that builds between Macon and Joshua, which is why Dakota wants to keep her distance, though it also lures her towards Macon even more. I loved seeing Dakota and Macon grow closer and try to navigate their newfound feelings for each other. I also liked how all the Brady’s and Dakota’s friends rallied around them to offer support and nudged them in the right direction. Tension levels rise when the danger from Dakota’s past forces its way into her present, forcing Dakota and Macon to confront their worst nightmare. Everything works out, of course, but it was still a thrilling, riveting ride, getting at that HEA.
Narration: I love dual narrations, and Emma Wilder’s and Jason Clarke’s voices match just beautifully. Emma Wilder’s take on Dakota felt spot on to me, and she brought just the right amount of emotion to her performance. Jason Clarke’s warm, deep voice was perfect for Macon and an absolute joy to listen to. They both did amazing with the pacing of the story as well as the voices for the secondary characters.
Narration: I love dual narrations, and Emma Wilder’s and Jason Clarke’s voices match just beautifully. Emma Wilder’s take on Dakota felt spot on to me, and she brought just the right amount of emotion to her performance. Jason Clarke’s warm, deep voice was perfect for Macon and an absolute joy to listen to. They both did amazing with the pacing of the story as well as the voices for the secondary characters.
October 29, 2020
Macon is a changed man who has been struggling with nightmares about being shot. He remembers the bullet in his chest. He remembers bleeding out with each pulse of this body. He remembers how he would have died alone after sending his brother, Cross, to save Hazel. Macon remembers feeling helpless and weak and hates those feelings. Dakota has her own secrets. Dakota is a single mother to Joshua and owns a coffee shop. Dakota ran from her ex to protect herself and her unborn child. Macon has used fighting to control his anger of feeling helpless. When Dakota sees his hands and face after a fight and tells him to stay away from her and Joshua, Macon knows it is time to stop fighting. It is Dakota's turn at dating and wants no part of it, but the girls have an idea of setting her and Macon up to try to get them to get along for the sake of their group. Macon and Dakota like spending time together and their attraction grows. Will Macon be able to protect Dakota and Joshua when Dakota's ex comes back and poses a threat to them? Will Dakota finally realize she is not alone but has the love of Macon, their friends, and her loyal customers? Can these two damaged souls help each other heal? I absolutely love Carrie Ann Ryan! Far From Destined is an amazing book with great characters that will keep the reader engaged from the beginning to the end. Macon and Dakota's chemistry is off the charts scorching hot. Far From Destined has, family, chemistry, danger, friends, a precious little boy, and few animals thrown in the mix. Carrie Ann Ryan is a MUST read author for this reader. I would HIGHLY recommend getting Far From Destined and the other books in the Promise Me series. I received an ARC of this book, and I am leaving my honest review.
November 3, 2020
This story was amazing!!! Absolutely loved Macon and Dakota!! Macon is a small animal vet and part of the Brady family and totally on Dakota’s don’t want to look at, know, be around list! Dakota is the owner of the Boulder Bean and has a six year old son Joshua who is so adorable!! Dakota doesn’t want help in any shape or form not from her friends and definitely not Macon Brady. However things don’t always go the way they are planned and Dakota soon has to understand that having help isn’t a bad thing it doesn’t mean you can’t do it all but that maybe you don’t have too when they’re people who care and want to help. The Pact Sisters soon decide its time for Dakota to start going on her blind dates but they have things planned out she never would have expected. Macon still faces demons of his own over the traumatic event from awhile back and starts doing things to relieve the stress that if his family found out they wouldn’t approve of which is learning to box and participate in fights in the ring.
*
Overall I’ve loved this series because we get to see the ups and downs. That everyone has issues just like ourselves no matter how hard we try nothing and nobody is perfect. Macon is strong but so is Dakota and they know something is there no matter how hard they fight it. Dakota has Joshua and he’s her priority and nothing else matters until she stops and finally takes a moment for herself because her friends make her and she deserves it. I can’t wait to read the next in the series!!
*
Overall I’ve loved this series because we get to see the ups and downs. That everyone has issues just like ourselves no matter how hard we try nothing and nobody is perfect. Macon is strong but so is Dakota and they know something is there no matter how hard they fight it. Dakota has Joshua and he’s her priority and nothing else matters until she stops and finally takes a moment for herself because her friends make her and she deserves it. I can’t wait to read the next in the series!!
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