From New York Times and USA Today bestselling author Carrie Ann Ryan comes a sexy new contemporary stand-alone series.Hazel Noble has survived horrors she wouldn’t inflict on her worst enemy. Since then, she’s healed, found herself, and connected with a group of women she’s proud to call her friends. However, when they make a pact to start looking for love, Hazel finds herself not only up first … not only up first but also forced to face a past she thought she’d escaped.
Cross Brady has no need for a relationship. As the oldest of five, he’s always been the one his family can rely on. Now, all he wants is to work in peace and live his life. His priorities shift dramatically, though, when Cross finds himself in Hazel’s path.
Though the two initially fight their connection, they soon learn that it’s safer to fall for each other than keep running from what’s holding them back—not to mention, who wants them dead.
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OMG! BRADYs! I had totally forgotten about these hunks after Arden, their baby sister went and found herself a Montgomery. Now they are here, front and center! Starting with Cross Brady. I couldn’t be a happier reader. Hazel is fabulous on this ride with him into an HEA… and ride it is. There is no slow whimpy meet & fall in love. There is strength of character, action, and heat. These two don’t have an easy time of it, but they find love together. I am doing a happy dance to have Cross & Hazel’s story and hopefully more Bradys in the future.
Carrie Ann Ryan weaves a beautiful HEA. For Cross and Hazel, they start with an accidental blind date, and end in murder (sounds about right). Four single friends come together and produce a dating pact. Since they have been unlucky at finding romance on their own, they decide that they will set each other up on blind dates. Hazel is first. Cross is sent to meet a potential new client by his partner. Through mistaken identities, Cross and Hazel meet. Hazel is skittish because of her past, Cross is complacent yet together they figure out how to navigate through the landmines of their lives.
Completely loving this new series!! This is Cross and Hazel’s story. Hazel is a math teacher that makes a pact with her friends to start dating again but things don’t go as planned exactly. Cross is a furniture builder that has his own business with his friend Chris but something has been off lately at work. Cross loves creating his designs for the furniture but Chris seems to have other ideas how things should go. Hazel has a past one she can’t let go of and doesn’t believe she will ever be able too because somethings you just can’t forget and leave you fearful at every turn. Overall I truly enjoyed their story, loved watching it unfold, it’s page turning and another amazing creation from the author. I look forward to the next book in the series.
I loved it! Hazel has a past she is trying hard to recover from. Meeting Cross feels right and the connection snaps in place. This emotional tale of past horrors revisited is very realistic. It’s also steamy and awesome. I received an advanced copy of this book and freely leave this honest review.
Hazel and Cross were everything I needed in this new series!!! I had completely forgotten that this series was going to be about the Brady men, but once I figured it out I was so excited!!! I got more of Arden, and who doesn’t love Arden??? And of course we got Liam and the rest of the Brady men, a girl can’t ask for much more!
Hazel is so special, I love how strong she had become!!! I LOVE that she has such a close knit group of friends too! Piper checking in on her was the sweetest and totally reminded me of my friends. And then the “meet cute” between her and Cross…. I GOT STARRY EYES!!! This was THE BEST! I loved the instant attraction and instant ease between them. And Cross, oh cross, he’s so dreamy! I loved how the girls joked about the bearded men who were attractive and Cross appeared out of thin air! This man is spectacular. I love that he’s he oldest and his turn first of the guys. But also, he deserves it just as much as Hazel.
These two were going through a lot personally throughout this book and it added the perfect amount of drama. The actual drama in this book was INTENSE, but everything else leading up to it was pretty perfect! Also, I can’t not mention Chris Cross, THIS WAS GENIUS!! I laughed hysterically! As a person in the interior design industry, I loved sooo much that Cross is a furniture designer. It is such a rare craft these days and I adored this so much!
This whole story was absolutely amazing. There were so many layers and boy was it spicy!!! It had everything I need and love in all of Carrie Ann’s books and I’m impatiently waiting for more!
This book is the first in a new series and it was amazing. I love Hazel and Cross’s story. Once I started reading it, I didn’t want to put it down. I can’t wait till the next book in this series comes out. Carrie Ann Ryan is an amazing author.
Forever Only Once is a beautiful love story filled with so many emotions. Hazel Noble has a past that is horrific and somehow she manages to move forward. Cross Brady is a perfect match up for Hazel. I had so many emotions with this book. I cried, I laughed and I fell in love. A romance that captives you. You need to read this beautiful book.
Once again Ms. Ryan knocked out of the park. It is very well written. It the first of many, when a group of ladies make a pack to find love for each other. Up first is Hazel, can she find love after she has so many horrors in your life. Can Brady find love when he has worked to hard on business and being the oldest brother of 5. A must read to find out if it is a love match. Can’t wait for the next one to see which lady is up next in the love matching.
Cross and Hazel grabbed my heart with this. They are both not wanting any relationship and Hazel herself has been healing from a tumultuous past. But when they meet, sparks fly and it’s only for so long that they can fight their pull. It’s explosive. But there is also some mystery and suspense. What I loved most was the sense of family; from their friends and Cross’s family. It’s a feel-good story with a little edge to keep you riveted.
Hazel Nobel has escaped the horrors of her past and started a new life for herself in Boulder, Colorado where she and a few of her friends have made a pact to help each other find their perfect ones by setting them up on blind dates, Hazel is first up. So when the handsome bearded gentlemen sits down at her table she thinks her friend did well in finding her someone she was at least attracted to, only to find out that they have both mistakenly taken the other for someone else. But hey, things happen for a reason right!?!
Cross Brady is the oldest of the five Brady siblings, he doesn’t have time for dating he is to consumed with his business, Chris Cross Furniture, and taking care of his sister Arden but now that she is with Liam he finds he has some time on his hands. So when he sits down at Hazel’s table thinking she is the client he is supposed to meet, only to find out his mistake a short time later, he can’t help but want to spend some of his time with her.
Their chemistry was instant, it’s as if you put water up to boil and within thirty seconds you burnt the pot, yes it was that hot. This story was much more than their chemistry though, Carrie Ann Ryan gives us a story of family, friends, suspense, hope, survival, and love. I cannot wait to see what she has in store for us next.
The PROMISE ME SERIES is another in the long line of spin-offs from the original Montgomery Ink Series and I for one couldn’t be happier. This series is about the four brothers of Arden Brady who married Liam Montgomery in WRAPPED IN INK, so if you have read that book you will see some familiar faces. I love the way these books can be read as a standalone if you choose to read it that way or if you have been reading some of the different Montgomery Ink Series you will get a treat with different people popping up. No matter which way you choose to read this book I am sure you will enjoy it.
Happy Reading!!!
4.5 Stars
Another great story in this world. Cross and Hazel are so great. Can’t wait for the rest of the crew to have their turn.
Cross and Hazel are so cute together!! There’s a lot of angst and romance, i loved how this all came together. But OMG these two couldn’t catch a break with people coming at them from all angles Loved they way it was written, but hate having to wait to find out the backgrounds of the other girls from the teasers we got. Can’t wait for more from this series
Carrie Ann Ryan hooked me in with the premise to this exciting new series of standalones- each book starting with a blind date and ending with a murder. SIGN ME UP. The center here are four friends making a pact to start dating to find their future partner- drawing straws to decide who they focus on first. Each book is focused on a different girl, and Forever Only Once is the story of Hazel.
Hazel, a college math professor, is reluctant but determined to get back out there.
By fate, she ends up on a blind date with the wrong man- Cross Brady, who isn’t there for a date at all. Rather, he thinks he’s taking a meeting in the stead of his recalcitrant business partner. The two hit it off in a charming meet cute and decide to make a date of it after all. Hazel is still hesitant, but there is undeniable spark between these two- they just click, like two old friends reconnecting.
Cross is definitely a bearded charmer. He’s the big brother of a big family- protective and nurturing. He’s also a visionary in his business- he’s a man of integrity and principle, focused and hard-working, so much so that he’s not been focusing on his social life much. His concerning interactions with his business partner have been consuming much of his mind-until he finds Hazel. Hazel has some real relationship baggage, trying to recover from a bad past situation that has left her distrustful of men.
The relationships here are really charming, something C.A.R. is so good at writing- Hazel has a fun inner circle of supportive friends, each of whom we’ll get to know better in future books, but Cross’s relationship with his family (his sister in particular) just really stole the show. Carrie Ann really uses these relationships, smartly, to characterize our leads- helping us get to know them when their walls are down, even as they are still getting to know each other. I loved the romantic narrative here- tentative given Hazel’s history and Cross being out of practice. The chemistry isn’t necessarily explosive at first, it’s more intimate, familiar, and comforting, even though the spark is certainly there. And then their two tribes start to interact, such fun.
There is some unexpected action and turns- definitely kept this entertaining, even though the relationship in and of itself is sweet and interesting enough on its own. Both of our characters have connections that threaten their budding happiness and comfort. Action, mystery, steam, and a bit of humor tossed in as well. Carrie Ann Ryan brings all the entertainment!
4.5 stars
Hazel and her best friends are making a pact to get back into dating and find the one. Each of them will take her turn, with the others picking the perfect date. Through luck of the draw, Hazel is up first. She has picked up her life and recovered from a controlling, negative situation. Her first date is set with a friend of a friend, a man her friends think will be perfect for her, but at the last minute he cancels leaving her already waiting at the bar alone.
Cross thought he had everything he wanted, with his focus entirely on his business he runs with his best friend. But lately, he’s been noticing some odd things with his friend and he begins to question if their business is everything they had planned it to be. His suspicions are raised when his partner sends him to meet a client in the evening at a bar, rather than a more traditional business setting.
Both Hazel and Cross are at the bar expecting to meet someone, but through a case of initial mistaken identity (and that last minute cancelation), they end up spending the evening together. Things just click as they continue their conversation, but Hazel is still tentative.
The progression between these two was so much fun to watch. Hazel is hesitant. Though she has put herself back together, there is a part of her that is afraid history will repeat if she isn’t careful. As Cross learns more about Hazel, he learns that he will have to tread carefully, but that the patience is worth it. The chemistry between these two is fantastic. I loved the banter and development as they met each other’s friends or family (because those are not smooth transitions in all cases).
There are also a few darker threads rolling in the background as Cross tries to figure out what is going on with his business partner. And on top of that mess, the past Hazel thought was in her past is back, and she’s already put herself back together once, she doesn’t know if she can do it again.
I’ve read parts of the Montgomery series, but haven’t read the Boulder part of the family yet. Even so, the way this series is set up, each book stands alone. I loved getting to meet the women that make up Hazel’s circle and can’t wait for each of their stories to come to light!
Paperback. First in the series and it’s full of Action and deep issues. Hazel looks over her shoulder all the time after what happened in her past. Cross on the other hand is fed up with his partnership with his friend after all he wants are huge commissions for his art. Everything becomes a deadly game as Hazels past comes back with a bang and Cross’s work partner is in the midst of it. Some great characters and I can’t wait to read the next books in the series.
I love when a book gets me excited for the start of a new series. Cross is the oldest sibling. He has taken on the role of the protector of the siblings and has put his social life on the back burner. Then there is Hazel. She’s happy with her job and her group of friends. She has some demons in her past that makes her put a social life outside of her group of friends. Cross and Hazel has the cutest meet cute that gets them curious of what life would be like if they made time for the other. Cross is working through what to do about his current business arrangement so he is okay with taking things slow. I loved the attraction and chemistry between the couple. I really enjoyed how Hazel worked towards healing and dealing with her past. I loved how loyal Cross is. I don’t usually like suspense in a romance but the story gave the perfect amount of suspense and fit perfectly in the story. I loved the secondary characters and am excited for the other books in the series. If you are looking for a book with a great storyline the perfect mixture of emotions and great supporting characters that keeps you turning the pages this is your book!
A brand new spin off from The Montgomery family series by Carrie Ann Ryan brings us 4 friends who have banded together to form a family they don’t have. These friend all have one thing in common, they want to find their happiness. So with a a promise to be open to allowing that to happen the search begins with Hazel and that search brings her to Cross Brady the oldest of 5.
What is supposed to be a blind date for Hazel and a business meeting for Cross turns into a meet cute that will melt your heart and an instant love connection that burns hot, but Hazel has a dangerous past that is never far away.
I really enjoyed the setup for this series, 4 best friends, all independent, successful woman looking to find some love and happiness, all a little wounded and four single, successful brothers. If hazel and Cross are any indication this should be an awesome story. Not to mention the brother are the siblings of Arden (Liam) so anytime there is more of that family it’s a gold thing right?
**I was generously provided with an advanced readers copy of this book in exchange for my fair and honest review**
Side not the cover of this book is absolutely, ridiculously stunning. It would have been enough to make me want to read the book had I not been familiar with the author.
Forever Only Once is the first book in the new Promise me series! This is Cross and Hazel’s story! Hazel is a math professor with a painful past and Cross is the oldest Brady and co-owns a furniture store. A pact between friends change everything, and finally gives Hazel the courage to date. Hazel and Brady have instant chemistry but each have their own reason for not rushing things. When Hazel finally has a chance at a happy ending will her past ruin everything? I really loved this story and can’t wait for the rest of the series!
This is the 1st in a new series and what a thrilling beginning this story is. Hazel is a survivor who has had some horrific things happen to her. Cross is the eldest of 5 siblings and is so bust being protective of them that he is lacking in his social life. When Cross and Hazel beet by accident they soon hit it off and the chemistry between them is explosive. This is a well written story which is filled with angst, drama, suspense, twists, romance and is a steamy and all-consuming read. I look forward to reading more in this series and recommend for all readers.
orever Only Once begins with Hazel Noble on her way to meet up with her three dearest friends. Once there, they discuss the “pact” they’ve made: the group will find each other the perfect date, one at a time. Hazel draws the short straw and is the first to be set up on a blind date. Though she agreed to the pact, she doesn’t want to go first….if at all.
Cross Brady loves what he does. He and his business partner have been partners for years, but something is off. When his partner comes in and asks him to meet one of his clients for him, Cross wants to say no, but knows he needs to do it for the business. He still doesn’t like it……
Cross heads to the restaurant to meet up with the new client and sees a very attractive lady sitting by herself and approaches her. It only takes a few moments for them to realize neither is whom they were meeting due to unforeseen circumstances. As they enjoy each other’s company and talk over dinner, neither can help but wonder if the other just might be worth seeing again. Hazel has vowed to put her past behind her and is intrigued by Cross, just as he is with her.
As they begin to build a relationship, neither are ready to jump head-first. The two of them go slow and both realize the chemistry between them is undeniable. However, as things heat up between Cross and his business partner and discoveries are made, a threat from Hazel’s past reemerges that jeopardizes everything.
Forever Only Once is an amazing story and I love the premise of the series. Four women who are single, for one reason or another, decide to help each other find happiness. Hazel’s backstory is one of nightmares and control. I love the way she broke free and made a new life for herself and reconnected with old friends. Cross was great as well. He is loyal and honorable. I loved the chemistry between the two of them. The secondary characters are well written and definitely leave you wanting more of their stories. If you like your romance with a little intrigue and steam that keeps you turning the pages, this one is definitely for you. Well done, Carrie Ann Ryan!! Very well done!