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Little Hope Series #4
Fragile Lives
“You’re the only thing holding me together. And they all know that.”
Leila
I was born in this small town, and I knew one day, no matter what I did to prevent it, I’d die here, alone. What I didn’t account for was my brother’s mysterious, dark, damaged friend coming to town and making his way into everyone’s hearts. But his years serving in the Navy seem to cause him a different level of damage that no one else sees: one that hides on the inside and scars deeper.
He’s older. He’s a mess.
Hiding his pain behind a wicked smile, ridden by the guilt of someone else’s mistakes, he refuses to play by the rules.
Archie
I found this little town because I was looking for closure in my miserable life. But what I really found is something entirely different—someone, who saw me at my lowest. The only one who sees the real me.
She’s younger. She’s pure. She’s my friend’s sister.
She’s smart. Smart enough to know she should run from me, leaving me in the dust.
But I find myself chasing her, scared she’ll reveal my dirty secrets. Scared she’ll leave me alone with them.
“I would give everything to keep you, but I got nothing left to give.”
.
.
.
This slow-burn, strangers-to-enemies-to-lovers, contemporary romance is a standalone filled with angst, pain, and finding peace. Each book contains a story about a different couple. No cheating. No cliffhangers. HEA.
TW: severe depression, alcohol abuse, mention of su1cide. Strong language. 18+.
Leila
I was born in this small town, and I knew one day, no matter what I did to prevent it, I’d die here, alone. What I didn’t account for was my brother’s mysterious, dark, damaged friend coming to town and making his way into everyone’s hearts. But his years serving in the Navy seem to cause him a different level of damage that no one else sees: one that hides on the inside and scars deeper.
He’s older. He’s a mess.
Hiding his pain behind a wicked smile, ridden by the guilt of someone else’s mistakes, he refuses to play by the rules.
Archie
I found this little town because I was looking for closure in my miserable life. But what I really found is something entirely different—someone, who saw me at my lowest. The only one who sees the real me.
She’s younger. She’s pure. She’s my friend’s sister.
She’s smart. Smart enough to know she should run from me, leaving me in the dust.
But I find myself chasing her, scared she’ll reveal my dirty secrets. Scared she’ll leave me alone with them.
“I would give everything to keep you, but I got nothing left to give.”
.
.
.
This slow-burn, strangers-to-enemies-to-lovers, contemporary romance is a standalone filled with angst, pain, and finding peace. Each book contains a story about a different couple. No cheating. No cliffhangers. HEA.
TW: severe depression, alcohol abuse, mention of su1cide. Strong language. 18+.
386 pages, Kindle Edition
Published May 1, 2023
253 people are currently reading
2865 people want to read
About the author
Ariana Cane
14 books555 followersAriana Cane is the queen of sizzling slow-burn romances that blend heart-pounding chemistry. A die-hard Disney fan, she sprinkles a touch of magic into her stories, keeping readers hooked as her characters navigate their way to happily-ever-after. 💖
Forget insta-love—Ariana’s all about crafting damaged alpha heroes with layers of depth and complications that unravel like a perfectly plotted fairy tale. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her dreaming up new ways to torture her characters (and readers!) with a cup of decaf coffee or striding the Disney parks because it’s her happy place.
Writing about herself in the third person? Let’s just say it’s as tricky as convincing her characters to kiss and make up before the final chapter. 📚
Forget insta-love—Ariana’s all about crafting damaged alpha heroes with layers of depth and complications that unravel like a perfectly plotted fairy tale. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her dreaming up new ways to torture her characters (and readers!) with a cup of decaf coffee or striding the Disney parks because it’s her happy place.
Writing about herself in the third person? Let’s just say it’s as tricky as convincing her characters to kiss and make up before the final chapter. 📚
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 138 reviews
January 25, 2024
Stayed up til 3AM yesterday night to finish it. Had to wake up at 7AM today because of uni. I regret nothing.
February 12, 2023
Fragile Lives is a raw emotional read that makes your heart bleed and feel all emotions. The author put her heart and soul into this book. Here is how. I know; I cried one too many times, leaving me with a major book hangover.
This review may be all over the place since I’m still emotional.
Since Haunted Hearts and reading part of Archie’s story, I have always wondered more about him. Besides the mask, he puts on. When the author announced his book, I Was giddy as a schoolgirl. I knew he was going to be my kind dirty. To say I’m obsessed with all things Archie is an understatement.
Leila is intuitive and wise beyond her years. She finds herself helping a stranger in one of his dark moments. she later finds out he is her brother’s best friend, Archie. The chemistry between the two is instant and intense.
Their journey is beautifully broken, spicy, and a tear jerkier. While writing this review, I’m choking up and trying not to cry. It’s a nice pleasant surprise how the author wrote Leila. Without spoilers, Archie is the one to worry about in more ways than one. A bonus is she is a take-charge kind of woman. Loved it!
Words alone can’t express how happy I am that I found this author. I have never been so invested in a series before.
This review may be all over the place since I’m still emotional.
Since Haunted Hearts and reading part of Archie’s story, I have always wondered more about him. Besides the mask, he puts on. When the author announced his book, I Was giddy as a schoolgirl. I knew he was going to be my kind dirty. To say I’m obsessed with all things Archie is an understatement.
Leila is intuitive and wise beyond her years. She finds herself helping a stranger in one of his dark moments. she later finds out he is her brother’s best friend, Archie. The chemistry between the two is instant and intense.
Their journey is beautifully broken, spicy, and a tear jerkier. While writing this review, I’m choking up and trying not to cry. It’s a nice pleasant surprise how the author wrote Leila. Without spoilers, Archie is the one to worry about in more ways than one. A bonus is she is a take-charge kind of woman. Loved it!
Words alone can’t express how happy I am that I found this author. I have never been so invested in a series before.
February 15, 2023
Fragile Lives. What a perfect title for this story. I wasn’t even a page in and I was already in tears because I know what it might lead too. That dark place. That sense of lost.
But I knew I had to read it. I need to read this story! And I loved it. Everything single chapter. My heart was in piece’s to many times 🥹.
But thats the beautiful of this story, of this book. It has the dark, the bad and the light, the healing. And not in a unhealthy way. People are not things to be fixed but we can also try out hardest to give them a wake up call if we can!
And the best part that I love in any series that are connected is when they overlap in time. The attention to detail always gets me. It’s the best 💕💕💕
Broken Souls will always be my first love but Fragile Lives is a extreme close second. And know I am super curious about Kenneth story. I keep getting pulled into their lifes!!!
And I heard the song The Archer by Taylor Swift and couldn’t stop thinking how they connected to their story in some way.
“…
I've been the archer,
I've been the prey
Screaming, who could ever leave me, darling?
But who could stay?
(I see right through me, I see right through me)
…”
❤️🩹❤️🩹
But I knew I had to read it. I need to read this story! And I loved it. Everything single chapter. My heart was in piece’s to many times 🥹.
But thats the beautiful of this story, of this book. It has the dark, the bad and the light, the healing. And not in a unhealthy way. People are not things to be fixed but we can also try out hardest to give them a wake up call if we can!
And the best part that I love in any series that are connected is when they overlap in time. The attention to detail always gets me. It’s the best 💕💕💕
Broken Souls will always be my first love but Fragile Lives is a extreme close second. And know I am super curious about Kenneth story. I keep getting pulled into their lifes!!!
And I heard the song The Archer by Taylor Swift and couldn’t stop thinking how they connected to their story in some way.
“…
I've been the archer,
I've been the prey
Screaming, who could ever leave me, darling?
But who could stay?
(I see right through me, I see right through me)
…”
❤️🩹❤️🩹
February 12, 2023
This series is one of my very favorites! Every book is so good and book 4, Fragile Lives, just raised the bar even higher.
This time we get to see Archie and Leila navigate their relationship. I loved how much Archie POV's we got!! The story starts heavy and doesn't really lighten too much. It's an emotional ride, for sure! BUT! It's beautiful! These two characters were made for each other and no one will convince me otherwise!
As always, the side characters are amazing! Revisiting Little Hope and getting another glimpse into the lives of Alex and Freya again was probably my favorite part! The whole time I was trying to guess who book 5 would be about and I couldn't be happier with who Ariana chose! I keep wondering how she's going to top these books but then she just does it! Every time!
This time we get to see Archie and Leila navigate their relationship. I loved how much Archie POV's we got!! The story starts heavy and doesn't really lighten too much. It's an emotional ride, for sure! BUT! It's beautiful! These two characters were made for each other and no one will convince me otherwise!
As always, the side characters are amazing! Revisiting Little Hope and getting another glimpse into the lives of Alex and Freya again was probably my favorite part! The whole time I was trying to guess who book 5 would be about and I couldn't be happier with who Ariana chose! I keep wondering how she's going to top these books but then she just does it! Every time!
February 25, 2023
Snooze fest. Archie is suicidal and Leila saves him. Alex and Justin are still dicks.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 13, 2023
THIS WAS THE BEST OF THE SERIES. 4.5 stars!!
this book centres around what i assume is everyone's favourite character: archie. if he's not your fave, then what are you even reading?
archie has been in the series since book 1 where he's briefly mentioned and ever since then, he's been secretly helping every couple. the way he helped kayla??? the way he somehow bumped into mark then alicia and helped them both too???? archie has the best heart out there, always trying to help people when in fact, he's the one that needed help the most.
leila meets archie when he's considering jumping off. its brother best friend trope so he keeps trying to resist when there's obvious chemistry between them. he's also dealing with trauma and my heart breaks for him. the way he sees and treats himself...
"As she makes another cut, going a lot deeper this time, I think about how it’s getting more difficult to feel anything without pain with every passing day. When will I reach my limit?"
CAN YOU HEAR MY HEART BREAKING
love how protective he was of her too :-(( literally almost killed a guy for hurting her until she called out his real name :-(
HIS VOICEMAIL :-((( IF U KNOW U KNOW:-(( i actually cried i was so so so worried for him
And the scariest moment of my life happens. It takes two seconds, but to me, it feels like it lasts for hours. A little figure with flaming hair jumps out of nowhere and starts hitting the bearded guy with her purse.
“Stephan, stop.” I freeze. Her voice is like a cold bucket. My name on her lips is a soothing balm over the internal wounds I’m hiding from everyone.
“Take off your sweater.” Her brows shoot to the stratosphere, and she lets out a surprised laugh. “Without foreplay?” Her teeth sink into her lower lip while her cheeks stretch into a smile. “I need to take a look at your shoulder.” I try my best to hide the pinkening of my cheeks. I bet it went down to my neck. Good thing my tats cover everything. “Oh.” Now her cheeks turn pink. “I’m fine.” Smooth move, asshole. I could have played it off with a joke like I usually do, but for some reason, I can’t think straight knowing she’s hurt. Can’t joke. Can’t focus. But her slumped shoulders and worried lip make me reconsider, so I try something new and let the real me show. “You are not.” I point at the chair. “Please, sit, Leila. I need to see that you’re okay.”
To my surprise, I find Archie watching me with heavy intensity. His lips are tight, his eyes dark. I expect him to look away when I catch him staring, but he doesn’t. If anything, his stare intensifies.
“That man has nothing left to lose. Do you understand me?” I meet his intense eyes and begin to comprehend that it’s not prejudice he’s showing, but care. “Nothing,” he continues. “And he’s looking at you as if you might be his lifeline. But if he loses you, that would be the last thing he loses. Do you understand me?”
“My ass was very far from your face. Maybe you’re just having a hard time staying away?” I take a step toward him, and now we’re a foot apart. I’m expecting a joke, but his eyes darken as he leans closer. “Maybe I am.” His voice is a low grumble. And promising. Very promising. “Is it really that hard?” I ask on an exhale. “Very.” He swallows. “Very hard.” “Then don’t.” I move, so we are flush against each other. “Don’t stay away.”
“Archie.” Her tone is pleading. I graze my teeth along her chin. “Say my name, and you’ll get them.” “Archie,” she says loudly. “Archie, make me come with your fingers.” “No. Say my name, Leila.” I don’t know why it’s so important to me, but it is. She understands it too, because her eyes sober up, and she pulls away just enough to see my face. “Make me come with your fingers, Stephan,” she breathes out, and my name on her swollen lips does something to my heart. To the place it’s supposed to be. That empty void I’ve long but given up on. I don’t want to pretend with her. I just want to be.
“You shouldn’t have been so open with this invitation because now I’ll never ever let you go.”
“I’ve been searching for something to hold me together for a long time. And I just found it.”
“You’re mine, Leila, and no one else can have you.” I should be scared of a declaration like that, but I’m not. I’m a woman of the twenty-first century, and it sounds too possessive, archaic, and unhealthy. And I’m fucking loving it. “Don’t you want to ask my opinion?” “It doesn’t matter.” He pulls me closer and kisses the top of my head. “I’ll change it in my favor.”
I’ll get her the moon if she wants it. It might take longer, but I’d reverse gravity so the shining ball could be in her magical hands.
“You are so beautiful, Lei. You don’t even know it.”
“It’s the hair.”
“No. I mean, yes, your hair is gorgeous. But it’s more. It’s you. You’re just….” He takes a deep breath before continuing, “I would give everything to keep you, but I got nothing left to give.”
“I went too far with you and promised too much I can’t deliver.”
“But you’re addictive. Better than any drug I’ve ever tried.”
“But I can’t stay away from you. Not when we’re in close quarters like this. How can I stay away from you? Tell me how.” “Don’t,” I whisper, because him staying away is the last thing I want. “I can’t, Lei. I can’t be with you.” His voice is full of agonizing torture.
But we also want to feel needed. We want to be desired like the very last breath. And she makes me feel like that—like I’m the last breath she is willing to take. Not with her touch, but with her eyes. They don’t lie.
“If I could ever be with a woman forever, it would be you. You’re not just a fuck to me. Do you understand?” She nods.
“But I can’t be with anyone. I’m not built that way, and I respect you too much to drag you down with me.” She watches me, unblinking. “And I don’t need saving. I don’t deserve it. Nor do I seek it. Do you understand?” She nods again.
“I won’t make the first move, Lei. I can’t. I can’t live with that, knowing I dragged you down with me.” “Okay,” she whispers. “I get it.”
And I know she really does. She doesn’t say it just to say it, but she does. And it breaks my heart that I’m losing the only woman I’m capable of loving. I’m losing her before I even had her. I don’t give a fuck about what Alex thinks. Or anyone else, for that matter. She’s more than them. She is more than anything. She is everything.
“I love you, Stephan,” she whispers into my ear.
“I can’t be your crutch, Stephan. I don’t think anyone can. But I will be if you need me to. Every time your mind gets clouded with thoughts I don’t appreciate, I want you to remember what I just said. I mean it, and I stand by it.” I want so badly to turn around, but I can’t. My hand is on the doorknob, my heart is bleeding, and she keeps talking. “I’ll always be here if you need me. I’m that person whose life you’ve changed. Irrevocably for good.”
“Just remember that,” she adds quieter. “Just remember me.”
“Hey…” A pause. “It wasn’t what you think, you know.” A shuddering air intake. “I would never do that. Even though we agreed to go our separate ways after the cabin,” a sad chuckle, “I never could, you know. You’re all I can think about.” He laughs sloppily. “You know, I always laughed at guys at the base when they said they fell in love at first sight and got married a month later. But I get it now.” A sniffle. “I get it. It’s crazy how much you consumed me after such a short time. You’re deep here,” a sound of a hand hitting something. His chest? That was loud. “So deep I can’t get rid of you. But I must. Because it’s so fuckin’ toxic. I’m dependent on you, and you don’t need this fuckin’ burden. I’ll only drag you down. You’re so young and so pure.” A deep sigh. “Thank you for what you did. The work you’ve done…” he pauses, “is tru…tram…huge.” He laughs. “Sorry, I’m drunk. Can’t speak. You’ve given me the biggest gift. I’m too deep though, for it to change me, but I am grateful to you. And I love you, Leila. I want you to know that.” A sad laugh. “Fuck, I’m mumbling. Such a pitiful sack of shit. Anyway, I’m happy I met you.”
Once I’m by his side, he lifts his head and blinks again. “Are you real?” he croaks. “I am,” I whisper and kneel by him. “What are you doing here?” His voice is coarse like he’s been yelling at a stadium for hours. “I got your voicemail.” “Oh.” His cheeks pinken.
“Yeah, and I came to tell you that I love you too.” I carefully put my hand on top of his. The one he’s holding the gun with. “You still do?” “I always will.” I carefully move my fingers on his grip. “May I have this?”
“Go home, Leila.” He hides his face in his hands. “Please, go.” “I’m not going anywhere.” “I can’t use you as a fuckin’ crutch.” He’s still hiding his face, so his words come out muffled. “I’m happy to be your crutch as long as you need me to be.” I cover his hands with mine and gently pull them away from his face. “Look at me.”
“I can’t face you, Lei.” His voice is tired. “Why?” I whisper, grabbing his hands in mine and not letting him pull them away. “Look at me.” He takes a shuddering breath. “I’m a fuckin’ mess. You don’t need that in your life.”
“Leila.” His voice turns serious, and he pushes away a little so he can see my face. “You are mine. You were mine then too. It’s just now I don’t have to pretend or hide anymore.” “How do I know you won’t change your mind?” Insecurity I’ve never felt before slowly creeps on me. “You don’t, but you can trust me.” His eyes dart between mine. “I know I’ve said shit before, but can you promise that you will try at least?” I watch him for a minute before nodding. “Yes. But you need to promise me something too.” “Anything,” he says without hesitation. I start to worry, not knowing how to form the right sentence. “If you ever feel like you did today, can you promise to talk to me right away? No matter where I am or what I’m doing, you have to find me. Can you?”
“It’s beautiful, but it’s just…empty, you know. It’s not home.” Oh, my poor Stephan. I know the feeling all too well. “I had the same feeling when you left.” I lie back and stare at the ceiling. “What do you mean?” He sits so he can look at me. “When you left Little Hope and my home, it stopped being home. It felt like…you took the home with you, you know?”
“Ten minutes in a place like mine for a woman like you is a lot.” “A lot for what?” I can feel my forehead wrinkling. “For snatching you. Obviously.”
“I’m serious. You are clearly into tats and bad boys, and there is plenty of that there. I don’t want to risk it.” “And that?” I point at my neck. “That’s my insurance that everyone will stay the fuck away.”
“Why do you think I’ll jump ship the moment I see some other hot dude?” He swallows before speaking. “Because I still can’t believe you’ve chosen me.”
“Do you think I’m not scared?”
“You shouldn’t be.” His eyes move between mine as his hands squeeze my waist. “You should never fear I’d choose someone else. That I’d even look at someone else.” He chuckles. “Hell, that I’d even think about thinking of looking at someone else.” He takes my chin between his fingers. “You are the only thing holding me together. And the whole world knows that. If you ever leave me, I’ll fall apart.”
“You can’t leave everything behind for me.” She looks around, uncomfortable, as if thinking I’ll miss this house and the city. Well, maybe I’ll miss the city a little, but who cares about that when she’ll be by my side every single day. “It’s not right.”
“Leila,” I take her hand in mine, “without you, there won’t be anything. You need to understand that. I’ll move anywhere for you.”
I finally fully understand how he felt all this time. When the desire to live dies along with the people you loved the most. That’s how I feel. I need him to breathe. I need him to. Because if he doesn’t wake up, that’s it. I’m done too.
“You’re back,” I whisper. “Back. Please, stay.” I start peppering his face with kisses. “Please, Stephan, stay with me. I can’t live without you.”
“I understand now,” she whispers, leaning in close to his face. “And I want you to know that if you leave, I’m not staying. Call it childish, call it stupid. But you heard me—I am not staying.” Dread settles in my stomach because I know what she’s talking about.
“Lei.” My voice is coarse, and it’s all I can really manage. It’s the most important word in this world—her name. And she falls apart in front of my eyes. Her whole body quakes with shudders, and she covers her face with her hands, falling to her knees. “Lei,” I say, stronger this time, “baby.” It hurts to speak, but she needs to hear me.
“Never do that again, jerk!” A loud sniffle. “I thought I was never going to hear your voice again. Don’t do that to me anymore.” Her eyes well up again before she adds, “Please.”
“You saved me.” One more sniffle. “There was a shooter, and you covered me with your body. You took two bullets that were meant for me.” Tears start running down her face. What’s wrong then? You are alive, that’s what matters, I ask her silently. She understands, of course, she’s always got me, and she smacks me again.
Right now, I’m happy to be alive. Never thought I’d say that, but I am. I can’t imagine leaving Leila alone in this world where she’s supposed to be protected by me. It’s the sole purpose of my existence now.
this book centres around what i assume is everyone's favourite character: archie. if he's not your fave, then what are you even reading?
archie has been in the series since book 1 where he's briefly mentioned and ever since then, he's been secretly helping every couple. the way he helped kayla??? the way he somehow bumped into mark then alicia and helped them both too???? archie has the best heart out there, always trying to help people when in fact, he's the one that needed help the most.
leila meets archie when he's considering jumping off. its brother best friend trope so he keeps trying to resist when there's obvious chemistry between them. he's also dealing with trauma and my heart breaks for him. the way he sees and treats himself...
"As she makes another cut, going a lot deeper this time, I think about how it’s getting more difficult to feel anything without pain with every passing day. When will I reach my limit?"
CAN YOU HEAR MY HEART BREAKING
love how protective he was of her too :-(( literally almost killed a guy for hurting her until she called out his real name :-(
HIS VOICEMAIL :-((( IF U KNOW U KNOW:-(( i actually cried i was so so so worried for him
And the scariest moment of my life happens. It takes two seconds, but to me, it feels like it lasts for hours. A little figure with flaming hair jumps out of nowhere and starts hitting the bearded guy with her purse.
“Stephan, stop.” I freeze. Her voice is like a cold bucket. My name on her lips is a soothing balm over the internal wounds I’m hiding from everyone.
“Take off your sweater.” Her brows shoot to the stratosphere, and she lets out a surprised laugh. “Without foreplay?” Her teeth sink into her lower lip while her cheeks stretch into a smile. “I need to take a look at your shoulder.” I try my best to hide the pinkening of my cheeks. I bet it went down to my neck. Good thing my tats cover everything. “Oh.” Now her cheeks turn pink. “I’m fine.” Smooth move, asshole. I could have played it off with a joke like I usually do, but for some reason, I can’t think straight knowing she’s hurt. Can’t joke. Can’t focus. But her slumped shoulders and worried lip make me reconsider, so I try something new and let the real me show. “You are not.” I point at the chair. “Please, sit, Leila. I need to see that you’re okay.”
To my surprise, I find Archie watching me with heavy intensity. His lips are tight, his eyes dark. I expect him to look away when I catch him staring, but he doesn’t. If anything, his stare intensifies.
“That man has nothing left to lose. Do you understand me?” I meet his intense eyes and begin to comprehend that it’s not prejudice he’s showing, but care. “Nothing,” he continues. “And he’s looking at you as if you might be his lifeline. But if he loses you, that would be the last thing he loses. Do you understand me?”
“My ass was very far from your face. Maybe you’re just having a hard time staying away?” I take a step toward him, and now we’re a foot apart. I’m expecting a joke, but his eyes darken as he leans closer. “Maybe I am.” His voice is a low grumble. And promising. Very promising. “Is it really that hard?” I ask on an exhale. “Very.” He swallows. “Very hard.” “Then don’t.” I move, so we are flush against each other. “Don’t stay away.”
“Archie.” Her tone is pleading. I graze my teeth along her chin. “Say my name, and you’ll get them.” “Archie,” she says loudly. “Archie, make me come with your fingers.” “No. Say my name, Leila.” I don’t know why it’s so important to me, but it is. She understands it too, because her eyes sober up, and she pulls away just enough to see my face. “Make me come with your fingers, Stephan,” she breathes out, and my name on her swollen lips does something to my heart. To the place it’s supposed to be. That empty void I’ve long but given up on. I don’t want to pretend with her. I just want to be.
“You shouldn’t have been so open with this invitation because now I’ll never ever let you go.”
“I’ve been searching for something to hold me together for a long time. And I just found it.”
“You’re mine, Leila, and no one else can have you.” I should be scared of a declaration like that, but I’m not. I’m a woman of the twenty-first century, and it sounds too possessive, archaic, and unhealthy. And I’m fucking loving it. “Don’t you want to ask my opinion?” “It doesn’t matter.” He pulls me closer and kisses the top of my head. “I’ll change it in my favor.”
I’ll get her the moon if she wants it. It might take longer, but I’d reverse gravity so the shining ball could be in her magical hands.
“You are so beautiful, Lei. You don’t even know it.”
“It’s the hair.”
“No. I mean, yes, your hair is gorgeous. But it’s more. It’s you. You’re just….” He takes a deep breath before continuing, “I would give everything to keep you, but I got nothing left to give.”
“I went too far with you and promised too much I can’t deliver.”
“But you’re addictive. Better than any drug I’ve ever tried.”
“But I can’t stay away from you. Not when we’re in close quarters like this. How can I stay away from you? Tell me how.” “Don’t,” I whisper, because him staying away is the last thing I want. “I can’t, Lei. I can’t be with you.” His voice is full of agonizing torture.
But we also want to feel needed. We want to be desired like the very last breath. And she makes me feel like that—like I’m the last breath she is willing to take. Not with her touch, but with her eyes. They don’t lie.
“If I could ever be with a woman forever, it would be you. You’re not just a fuck to me. Do you understand?” She nods.
“But I can’t be with anyone. I’m not built that way, and I respect you too much to drag you down with me.” She watches me, unblinking. “And I don’t need saving. I don’t deserve it. Nor do I seek it. Do you understand?” She nods again.
“I won’t make the first move, Lei. I can’t. I can’t live with that, knowing I dragged you down with me.” “Okay,” she whispers. “I get it.”
And I know she really does. She doesn’t say it just to say it, but she does. And it breaks my heart that I’m losing the only woman I’m capable of loving. I’m losing her before I even had her. I don’t give a fuck about what Alex thinks. Or anyone else, for that matter. She’s more than them. She is more than anything. She is everything.
“I love you, Stephan,” she whispers into my ear.
“I can’t be your crutch, Stephan. I don’t think anyone can. But I will be if you need me to. Every time your mind gets clouded with thoughts I don’t appreciate, I want you to remember what I just said. I mean it, and I stand by it.” I want so badly to turn around, but I can’t. My hand is on the doorknob, my heart is bleeding, and she keeps talking. “I’ll always be here if you need me. I’m that person whose life you’ve changed. Irrevocably for good.”
“Just remember that,” she adds quieter. “Just remember me.”
“Hey…” A pause. “It wasn’t what you think, you know.” A shuddering air intake. “I would never do that. Even though we agreed to go our separate ways after the cabin,” a sad chuckle, “I never could, you know. You’re all I can think about.” He laughs sloppily. “You know, I always laughed at guys at the base when they said they fell in love at first sight and got married a month later. But I get it now.” A sniffle. “I get it. It’s crazy how much you consumed me after such a short time. You’re deep here,” a sound of a hand hitting something. His chest? That was loud. “So deep I can’t get rid of you. But I must. Because it’s so fuckin’ toxic. I’m dependent on you, and you don’t need this fuckin’ burden. I’ll only drag you down. You’re so young and so pure.” A deep sigh. “Thank you for what you did. The work you’ve done…” he pauses, “is tru…tram…huge.” He laughs. “Sorry, I’m drunk. Can’t speak. You’ve given me the biggest gift. I’m too deep though, for it to change me, but I am grateful to you. And I love you, Leila. I want you to know that.” A sad laugh. “Fuck, I’m mumbling. Such a pitiful sack of shit. Anyway, I’m happy I met you.”
Once I’m by his side, he lifts his head and blinks again. “Are you real?” he croaks. “I am,” I whisper and kneel by him. “What are you doing here?” His voice is coarse like he’s been yelling at a stadium for hours. “I got your voicemail.” “Oh.” His cheeks pinken.
“Yeah, and I came to tell you that I love you too.” I carefully put my hand on top of his. The one he’s holding the gun with. “You still do?” “I always will.” I carefully move my fingers on his grip. “May I have this?”
“Go home, Leila.” He hides his face in his hands. “Please, go.” “I’m not going anywhere.” “I can’t use you as a fuckin’ crutch.” He’s still hiding his face, so his words come out muffled. “I’m happy to be your crutch as long as you need me to be.” I cover his hands with mine and gently pull them away from his face. “Look at me.”
“I can’t face you, Lei.” His voice is tired. “Why?” I whisper, grabbing his hands in mine and not letting him pull them away. “Look at me.” He takes a shuddering breath. “I’m a fuckin’ mess. You don’t need that in your life.”
“Leila.” His voice turns serious, and he pushes away a little so he can see my face. “You are mine. You were mine then too. It’s just now I don’t have to pretend or hide anymore.” “How do I know you won’t change your mind?” Insecurity I’ve never felt before slowly creeps on me. “You don’t, but you can trust me.” His eyes dart between mine. “I know I’ve said shit before, but can you promise that you will try at least?” I watch him for a minute before nodding. “Yes. But you need to promise me something too.” “Anything,” he says without hesitation. I start to worry, not knowing how to form the right sentence. “If you ever feel like you did today, can you promise to talk to me right away? No matter where I am or what I’m doing, you have to find me. Can you?”
“It’s beautiful, but it’s just…empty, you know. It’s not home.” Oh, my poor Stephan. I know the feeling all too well. “I had the same feeling when you left.” I lie back and stare at the ceiling. “What do you mean?” He sits so he can look at me. “When you left Little Hope and my home, it stopped being home. It felt like…you took the home with you, you know?”
“Ten minutes in a place like mine for a woman like you is a lot.” “A lot for what?” I can feel my forehead wrinkling. “For snatching you. Obviously.”
“I’m serious. You are clearly into tats and bad boys, and there is plenty of that there. I don’t want to risk it.” “And that?” I point at my neck. “That’s my insurance that everyone will stay the fuck away.”
“Why do you think I’ll jump ship the moment I see some other hot dude?” He swallows before speaking. “Because I still can’t believe you’ve chosen me.”
“Do you think I’m not scared?”
“You shouldn’t be.” His eyes move between mine as his hands squeeze my waist. “You should never fear I’d choose someone else. That I’d even look at someone else.” He chuckles. “Hell, that I’d even think about thinking of looking at someone else.” He takes my chin between his fingers. “You are the only thing holding me together. And the whole world knows that. If you ever leave me, I’ll fall apart.”
“You can’t leave everything behind for me.” She looks around, uncomfortable, as if thinking I’ll miss this house and the city. Well, maybe I’ll miss the city a little, but who cares about that when she’ll be by my side every single day. “It’s not right.”
“Leila,” I take her hand in mine, “without you, there won’t be anything. You need to understand that. I’ll move anywhere for you.”
I finally fully understand how he felt all this time. When the desire to live dies along with the people you loved the most. That’s how I feel. I need him to breathe. I need him to. Because if he doesn’t wake up, that’s it. I’m done too.
“You’re back,” I whisper. “Back. Please, stay.” I start peppering his face with kisses. “Please, Stephan, stay with me. I can’t live without you.”
“I understand now,” she whispers, leaning in close to his face. “And I want you to know that if you leave, I’m not staying. Call it childish, call it stupid. But you heard me—I am not staying.” Dread settles in my stomach because I know what she’s talking about.
“Lei.” My voice is coarse, and it’s all I can really manage. It’s the most important word in this world—her name. And she falls apart in front of my eyes. Her whole body quakes with shudders, and she covers her face with her hands, falling to her knees. “Lei,” I say, stronger this time, “baby.” It hurts to speak, but she needs to hear me.
“Never do that again, jerk!” A loud sniffle. “I thought I was never going to hear your voice again. Don’t do that to me anymore.” Her eyes well up again before she adds, “Please.”
“You saved me.” One more sniffle. “There was a shooter, and you covered me with your body. You took two bullets that were meant for me.” Tears start running down her face. What’s wrong then? You are alive, that’s what matters, I ask her silently. She understands, of course, she’s always got me, and she smacks me again.
Right now, I’m happy to be alive. Never thought I’d say that, but I am. I can’t imagine leaving Leila alone in this world where she’s supposed to be protected by me. It’s the sole purpose of my existence now.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 24, 2023
OMG! My heart is filled with so much love and admiration for Archie and Leila. Their love story is an inspiration. The raw and grittiness of their emotions is what drew me in and had me sobbing uncontrollably throughout. I hurt when they hurt, their pain was my pain, and my heart hurt for them both. What an incredibly emotional journey of pain, getting a second chance at love, forgiveness, and finally healing, to be taken on.
Leila it’s a powerhouse. She’s fierce, intuitive and just an utterly incredible woman. She has a way of seeing past the walls that people put up, delving deep into who they really are. When I think about Leila all I can think is the Shakespeare quote ”and though she be but little, she is fierce.” That is Leila.
Archie is a broken man with many demons hanging on his shoulders, pulling him down every day. He tries to just survive each day, but always ends up punishing himself for things he had no control of in his past. My heart ached for him, his sadness and his brokenness. He just needed to find that one person to bring him out of the darkness and back into the light again.
When Lela enters into Archie’s life, she turns his world upside down and inside out. He is not ready for the whirlwind storm that she is. They have this undeniable connection that continually pulls them together. Their interactions are emotionally charged and filled with such explosive chemistry. I could not wait for these two to let their guards down. They were going to be incredible together.
This was a beautifully written love story that was filled with suspense, heartache, emotional turmoil, drama, unexpected twisted moments and some deliciously spicy interactions that had my toes curling. I loved all the laughter it gave me, all the tears it made me shed and all of the beautiful heartfelt moments that will forever remain with me!
Leila it’s a powerhouse. She’s fierce, intuitive and just an utterly incredible woman. She has a way of seeing past the walls that people put up, delving deep into who they really are. When I think about Leila all I can think is the Shakespeare quote ”and though she be but little, she is fierce.” That is Leila.
Archie is a broken man with many demons hanging on his shoulders, pulling him down every day. He tries to just survive each day, but always ends up punishing himself for things he had no control of in his past. My heart ached for him, his sadness and his brokenness. He just needed to find that one person to bring him out of the darkness and back into the light again.
When Lela enters into Archie’s life, she turns his world upside down and inside out. He is not ready for the whirlwind storm that she is. They have this undeniable connection that continually pulls them together. Their interactions are emotionally charged and filled with such explosive chemistry. I could not wait for these two to let their guards down. They were going to be incredible together.
This was a beautifully written love story that was filled with suspense, heartache, emotional turmoil, drama, unexpected twisted moments and some deliciously spicy interactions that had my toes curling. I loved all the laughter it gave me, all the tears it made me shed and all of the beautiful heartfelt moments that will forever remain with me!
March 23, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐒:
❥ brother's best friend
❥ small town
❥ ex-military
❥ forced proximity
❥ found family
❥ age gap
❥ PTSD
❥ sexual trigger / BDSM
𝐋𝐞 𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐳𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐢 𝐜𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐢 𝐡𝐚 𝐬𝐮𝐬𝐜𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐚 𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚: 😍 🥰 🥺 ☺️ 😆 😨 😭 😏
𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞 𝐑𝐢𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐨:
Per quanto un ponte sia un ottimo punto di osservazione per il mondo circostante, è anche un'attrazione per coloro che sono convinti di non avere più motivi di guardare davanti a sé.
E' così che Leila incontra Archie, letteralmente strappandolo dalla sua realtà per incatenarlo alla propria. E' un colpo di fulmine che nessuno dei due voleva ma di cui entrambi avevano bisogno per salvarsi a vicenda, letteralmente. ( ´ ﹀ ` )
𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐞:
Bellissima storia, davvero. C'è emozione, tensione, calore e la trama e il sesso si tengono per mano serenamente, senza mai sovrastare l'altro nonostante non manchino di intensità. (˶ᵔ ᵕ ᵔ˶)♡
Leila è una protagonista matura ma non perfetta, sa di avere la sindrome da crocerossina ed è onorevole come si ponga le giuste domande durane l'attrazione per Archie. Lui, uomo sexy e tormentato che trova riparo in una maschera indossata per troppo tempo, viene privato di questa dalle mani gentili di Leila che lo legge e accetta come mai nessuno aveva fatto prima.
Ho adorato come non si siano davvero mai giudicati amandosi, ma abbiano sempre cercato di capirsi e di trovare l'origine delle rispettive reazioni e comportamenti. ٩(ˊᗜˋ )و
Inoltre è stato molto apprezzato l'alone di mistero che aleggia durante la lettura, come la dose di lacrime in seguito a un piccolo infarto poco prima della fine del libro.
🌶🌶🌶🌶🌶
𝐓𝐑𝐎𝐏𝐄𝐒:
❥ brother's best friend
❥ small town
❥ ex-military
❥ forced proximity
❥ found family
❥ age gap
❥ PTSD
❥ sexual trigger / BDSM
𝐋𝐞 𝐞𝐦𝐨𝐳𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐢 𝐜𝐡𝐞 𝐦𝐢 𝐡𝐚 𝐬𝐮𝐬𝐜𝐢𝐭𝐚𝐭𝐨 𝐥𝐚 𝐥𝐞𝐭𝐭𝐮𝐫𝐚: 😍 🥰 🥺 ☺️ 😆 😨 😭 😏
𝐁𝐫𝐞𝐯𝐞 𝐑𝐢𝐚𝐬𝐬𝐮𝐧𝐭𝐨:
Per quanto un ponte sia un ottimo punto di osservazione per il mondo circostante, è anche un'attrazione per coloro che sono convinti di non avere più motivi di guardare davanti a sé.
E' così che Leila incontra Archie, letteralmente strappandolo dalla sua realtà per incatenarlo alla propria. E' un colpo di fulmine che nessuno dei due voleva ma di cui entrambi avevano bisogno per salvarsi a vicenda, letteralmente. ( ´ ﹀ ` )
𝐑𝐞𝐜𝐞𝐧𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐞:
Bellissima storia, davvero. C'è emozione, tensione, calore e la trama e il sesso si tengono per mano serenamente, senza mai sovrastare l'altro nonostante non manchino di intensità. (˶ᵔ ᵕ ᵔ˶)♡
Leila è una protagonista matura ma non perfetta, sa di avere la sindrome da crocerossina ed è onorevole come si ponga le giuste domande durane l'attrazione per Archie. Lui, uomo sexy e tormentato che trova riparo in una maschera indossata per troppo tempo, viene privato di questa dalle mani gentili di Leila che lo legge e accetta come mai nessuno aveva fatto prima.
Ho adorato come non si siano davvero mai giudicati amandosi, ma abbiano sempre cercato di capirsi e di trovare l'origine delle rispettive reazioni e comportamenti. ٩(ˊᗜˋ )و
Inoltre è stato molto apprezzato l'alone di mistero che aleggia durante la lettura, come la dose di lacrime in seguito a un piccolo infarto poco prima della fine del libro.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 22, 2023
5/5 stars
*screaming, crying, throwing up* What I love about AC is that she is able to handle timelines so well. This book takes in between Broken Souls, her third book, and *slow clapping* because it works so well. I love seeing the books from the other perspective and this is fantastic.
Leila. I just love her so much. From the first moment she shows up to the end, she is fantastic. I love the dynamics of her in terms of not only Archie, but the entire family as well. This is a huge point because this is what Ariana does best in terms of characters. Their relationships are so important and I just love this in all of her books and especially in this one.
Archie, my baby boy. I love him so much and he is hurting so so so much and my heart just wants to hug him. I love how Ariana introduces his character and his struggles and he just broke my heart. He might be my new favorite, no one tell my dumb dumb man because it hurts to say this out loud. He struggled and that makes his HEA so much better. Ariana has a true talent to handle such issues with such delicacy and amazingness.
With so many background wonderful characters and the allusions to previous stories (lamps, I’m dying laughing and others), this book can be read as a standalone, however it is ten times more hilarious to see the wonderful characters that have come far and found Hope in little Hope. Fantastic job, Ariana, FANTASTIC JOB. This book means so much to me and it is one to check out.
If you haven’t read of AC’s book, this book is the one to start and read the rest.Please be mindful of the trigger warnings and delicate matters of this book and the others in the series. Please please please don’t let that deter you from this amazing book and the amazing ones that came before it. Check this amazing book coming out on Feb. 21st on Kindle and KU!
A huge thank you to @arianacaneauthor for an ARC copy of the book.
*screaming, crying, throwing up* What I love about AC is that she is able to handle timelines so well. This book takes in between Broken Souls, her third book, and *slow clapping* because it works so well. I love seeing the books from the other perspective and this is fantastic.
Leila. I just love her so much. From the first moment she shows up to the end, she is fantastic. I love the dynamics of her in terms of not only Archie, but the entire family as well. This is a huge point because this is what Ariana does best in terms of characters. Their relationships are so important and I just love this in all of her books and especially in this one.
Archie, my baby boy. I love him so much and he is hurting so so so much and my heart just wants to hug him. I love how Ariana introduces his character and his struggles and he just broke my heart. He might be my new favorite, no one tell my dumb dumb man because it hurts to say this out loud. He struggled and that makes his HEA so much better. Ariana has a true talent to handle such issues with such delicacy and amazingness.
With so many background wonderful characters and the allusions to previous stories (lamps, I’m dying laughing and others), this book can be read as a standalone, however it is ten times more hilarious to see the wonderful characters that have come far and found Hope in little Hope. Fantastic job, Ariana, FANTASTIC JOB. This book means so much to me and it is one to check out.
If you haven’t read of AC’s book, this book is the one to start and read the rest.Please be mindful of the trigger warnings and delicate matters of this book and the others in the series. Please please please don’t let that deter you from this amazing book and the amazing ones that came before it. Check this amazing book coming out on Feb. 21st on Kindle and KU!
A huge thank you to @arianacaneauthor for an ARC copy of the book.
February 16, 2025
I had high hopes for Archie and he partially delivered. Partially, because I felt like the balance between a broken boy and a grown up man wasn’t fully there and that wasn’t fair to Leila.
He definitely should worship the ground she walks on for the rest of his life, so there’s that.
It also seems like the stalker storyline was not properly developed, just kinda thrown in there for a good measure.
Still, it was adorable, even if a bit too simple of a story and I had a hard time putting it down. There’s something addictive about the Little Hope.
He definitely should worship the ground she walks on for the rest of his life, so there’s that.
It also seems like the stalker storyline was not properly developed, just kinda thrown in there for a good measure.
Still, it was adorable, even if a bit too simple of a story and I had a hard time putting it down. There’s something addictive about the Little Hope.
February 23, 2023
🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: Small Town Romance, Ex-Military, Best Friends Sister, Age Gap, Forced Proximity
𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀: 💜💜💜💜
𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗟𝗼𝘀𝘁: 💧💧💧💧
𝗣𝗹𝗼𝘁 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁: 🖊️🖊️🖊️🖊️
𝗣𝗢𝗩: Dual
𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗮 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗮𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗺𝘆 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿, 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗿𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗻𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗰𝗮𝘃𝗲, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗳𝘂𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝗺𝗮𝗱𝗺𝗮𝗻.
As with all of the books by this author, there is some very difficult topics that are taken on in this book, so please read the content notices before starting. And some of these topics are taken on right away in chapter one.
Archie hide everything he really feels from the world. To most he is a successful businessman who loves to party, both with a drink and with women. That is so far from the truth, but nobody sees the full extent of his internal pain. That is until a chance encounter one cold night in Main. She saw everything he tried to hide from the world.
Lelia never expected to see the man from the bridge again, let alone at a family dinner as his brothers best friend. And then again when she tries to run away from a problem she has kept hidden from those around her.
This leads to a few amazing nights in a secluded cabin, a visit to the woods that is definitely not complete without a favorite moose. These two have such an amazing story to tell and it is definitely one you should check out.
𝗧𝗿𝗼𝗽𝗲𝘀: Small Town Romance, Ex-Military, Best Friends Sister, Age Gap, Forced Proximity
𝗢𝘃𝗲𝗿𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗥𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟
𝗦𝗽𝗶𝗰𝗲 𝗟𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗿𝗮𝗰𝘁𝗲𝗿𝘀: 💜💜💜💜
𝗧𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗟𝗼𝘀𝘁: 💧💧💧💧
𝗣𝗹𝗼𝘁 𝗗𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗹𝗼𝗽𝗺𝗲𝗻𝘁: 🖊️🖊️🖊️🖊️
𝗣𝗢𝗩: Dual
𝗜 𝘄𝗮𝘀 𝗮 𝘀𝗲𝗰𝗼𝗻𝗱 𝗮𝘄𝗮𝘆 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗿𝗼𝘄𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝗺𝘆 𝘀𝗵𝗼𝘂𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿, 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗿𝘆𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗻𝗲𝗮𝗿𝗲𝘀𝘁 𝗰𝗮𝘃𝗲, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗳𝘂𝗰𝗸𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗵𝗲𝗿 𝗶𝗻𝘁𝗼 𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗶𝘃𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝗹𝗶𝗸𝗲 𝗮 𝗺𝗮𝗱𝗺𝗮𝗻.
As with all of the books by this author, there is some very difficult topics that are taken on in this book, so please read the content notices before starting. And some of these topics are taken on right away in chapter one.
Archie hide everything he really feels from the world. To most he is a successful businessman who loves to party, both with a drink and with women. That is so far from the truth, but nobody sees the full extent of his internal pain. That is until a chance encounter one cold night in Main. She saw everything he tried to hide from the world.
Lelia never expected to see the man from the bridge again, let alone at a family dinner as his brothers best friend. And then again when she tries to run away from a problem she has kept hidden from those around her.
This leads to a few amazing nights in a secluded cabin, a visit to the woods that is definitely not complete without a favorite moose. These two have such an amazing story to tell and it is definitely one you should check out.
February 23, 2023
Oh man! This book was raw and emotional. Really pulled at my heartstrings.
Archie…
Broken and wracked with guilt. We only got a glimpse of him in other books and doesn’t even scratch the surface. Archie is more complex and hides pain to those who don’t know him.
Enter Leila…
She is a good soul who wants to do the right thing and solve puzzles, in this case people. Something about Archie grabs her.
These two just got so well together. Archie is darkness personified but you feel so much love for him as you see what he deals with. And Leila with her sunnier disposition is the perfect remedy. Don’t expect a smooth ride. There are some dark turns that will leave you sobbing and a slight twist as well that had me on edge.
Nice to see characters from the series and two that surprised me with their actions. One golf feed and the other you may want to smack upside the head.
* I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
Archie…
Broken and wracked with guilt. We only got a glimpse of him in other books and doesn’t even scratch the surface. Archie is more complex and hides pain to those who don’t know him.
Enter Leila…
She is a good soul who wants to do the right thing and solve puzzles, in this case people. Something about Archie grabs her.
These two just got so well together. Archie is darkness personified but you feel so much love for him as you see what he deals with. And Leila with her sunnier disposition is the perfect remedy. Don’t expect a smooth ride. There are some dark turns that will leave you sobbing and a slight twist as well that had me on edge.
Nice to see characters from the series and two that surprised me with their actions. One golf feed and the other you may want to smack upside the head.
* I received this book as an ARC for an honest review.
February 27, 2023
Worth the Wait
I’ve been looking forward to Archie’s book since I first met him in Justin & Kayla’s story. And it did not disappoint!
Archie is the owner of several tattoo parlors. He served in the military with Alex, and they were both discharged after a traumatic event. They both carry significant guilt over the event, and I’m not sure whose guilt is stronger.
Leila is a freelance reporter, and Alex’s younger sister. Not that Archie knows that tidbit when they first meet at the start of the book. Alex and Leila never exactly been close, but he is protective of her. And he does not take Leila and Archie being together well.
All of the books in this series have dealt with dark themes, but this may be the darkest. I won’t give any spoilers here, but read the trigger warnings!
A main critique I have is that there were certain aspects of the story that I expected to be more prominent than they actually were. Again, would be spoilers, but certain incidents seemed to be almost forgotten about midway through the story, and didn’t come back until the very end. Even then, they didn’t seem completely resolved/explained. At least not to me. But maybe that was the point.
I’m looking forward to continuing this series as Ms Cane writes them! And I don’t want to smack Jake this time.
I’ve been looking forward to Archie’s book since I first met him in Justin & Kayla’s story. And it did not disappoint!
Archie is the owner of several tattoo parlors. He served in the military with Alex, and they were both discharged after a traumatic event. They both carry significant guilt over the event, and I’m not sure whose guilt is stronger.
Leila is a freelance reporter, and Alex’s younger sister. Not that Archie knows that tidbit when they first meet at the start of the book. Alex and Leila never exactly been close, but he is protective of her. And he does not take Leila and Archie being together well.
All of the books in this series have dealt with dark themes, but this may be the darkest. I won’t give any spoilers here, but read the trigger warnings!
A main critique I have is that there were certain aspects of the story that I expected to be more prominent than they actually were. Again, would be spoilers, but certain incidents seemed to be almost forgotten about midway through the story, and didn’t come back until the very end. Even then, they didn’t seem completely resolved/explained. At least not to me. But maybe that was the point.
I’m looking forward to continuing this series as Ms Cane writes them! And I don’t want to smack Jake this time.
February 15, 2024
"She is everything. And that is precisely why I can't be with her."
I will start this off by emphasizing the importance of checking the author's trigger warnings.
Now that I got that important tidbit out of the way....let's talk Archie and Leila. We have had glimpses of Archie in all three of the previous books but the biggest glimpse is in Guilty Minds and after so much anticipation his story is finally here.
I have to say that to date, this is Ariana's best story. The subject matter is deep (again...check trigger warnings) but Ariana does what she does best which is weaving a story with her beautiful mind that will hit you in every single emotion, pull on every last heart string you freaking have, then you end up staring at the words on the page like you cannot believe what just happened actually happened and you end up chanting to yourself in your head that it does end with a happily ever after.
It is no secret that Archie is damaged from his time in the military with Alex. What we have not seen yet is why and how deep it actually goes. Be prepared to have your heart bleeding for this man. I wanted to reach into my kindle and hug him so many times...just wrap him up with my mama arms. He is so deserving of love, all the love and then some. Enter Leila....Alex's sister.
Leila is so observant to the point it is scary. She is very intuitive and almost even more so when it comes to Archie. She doesn't shy away and speaks her mind. I felt even though she comes from this fairly decent sized family nobody actually "sees" her with the exception of Kenneth. Her crossing paths with Archie is most definitely the best thing that could have happened to both of them. She is free to be who she truly is with him and he has no choice but to be his real self because she will call him on it if he isn't. She is exactly who he needed in his life.
A very unexpected surprise for me with this story is Kenneth. We have met him as the Sheriff as well as the fact he is Alex and Leila's brother. The bond he ends up forming with Archie, I could totally see them becoming besties of sorts. He is a better father figure for Leila than Keith (her actual father). Kenneth is her rock, her solid foundation when she needs it most.
Just like the other couples of Little Hope their story is not one full of sunshine and roses. It isn't an easy coming together by any means. Archie has a lot of baggage that he must address in order to move forward. Ariana gives an excellent combination of heartbreaking and heartwarming all at the same time. The chemistry between Archie and Leila is explosive. The way they are in the general vicinity of each other.....fastest slow burn she has written.....they really, really like each other 😉 I swear her mind never ceases to amaze me. I will never stop looking forward to whatever she is writing!
I will start this off by emphasizing the importance of checking the author's trigger warnings.
Now that I got that important tidbit out of the way....let's talk Archie and Leila. We have had glimpses of Archie in all three of the previous books but the biggest glimpse is in Guilty Minds and after so much anticipation his story is finally here.
I have to say that to date, this is Ariana's best story. The subject matter is deep (again...check trigger warnings) but Ariana does what she does best which is weaving a story with her beautiful mind that will hit you in every single emotion, pull on every last heart string you freaking have, then you end up staring at the words on the page like you cannot believe what just happened actually happened and you end up chanting to yourself in your head that it does end with a happily ever after.
It is no secret that Archie is damaged from his time in the military with Alex. What we have not seen yet is why and how deep it actually goes. Be prepared to have your heart bleeding for this man. I wanted to reach into my kindle and hug him so many times...just wrap him up with my mama arms. He is so deserving of love, all the love and then some. Enter Leila....Alex's sister.
Leila is so observant to the point it is scary. She is very intuitive and almost even more so when it comes to Archie. She doesn't shy away and speaks her mind. I felt even though she comes from this fairly decent sized family nobody actually "sees" her with the exception of Kenneth. Her crossing paths with Archie is most definitely the best thing that could have happened to both of them. She is free to be who she truly is with him and he has no choice but to be his real self because she will call him on it if he isn't. She is exactly who he needed in his life.
A very unexpected surprise for me with this story is Kenneth. We have met him as the Sheriff as well as the fact he is Alex and Leila's brother. The bond he ends up forming with Archie, I could totally see them becoming besties of sorts. He is a better father figure for Leila than Keith (her actual father). Kenneth is her rock, her solid foundation when she needs it most.
Just like the other couples of Little Hope their story is not one full of sunshine and roses. It isn't an easy coming together by any means. Archie has a lot of baggage that he must address in order to move forward. Ariana gives an excellent combination of heartbreaking and heartwarming all at the same time. The chemistry between Archie and Leila is explosive. The way they are in the general vicinity of each other.....fastest slow burn she has written.....they really, really like each other 😉 I swear her mind never ceases to amaze me. I will never stop looking forward to whatever she is writing!
February 22, 2023
I’m here reporting for the Gossip column of the Little Hope Gazette. Todays big story: Navy buddy of Little Hopes own Naval hero catches eye of our favorite reporter.
All jokes aside now: I cried. A lot. Ariana has once again brought us a beautiful love story between two people who couldn’t have started off any more different than the other. Archie’s Naval past isn’t the only thing that shaped him and we learn a lot about why and who he truly is. Leila, we’ll Ariana explains who she is so well and continues to prove that.
A fallen hero and a hero complex. I don’t know if there’s a better pairing.
I’ve said it a million times since first meeting Archie, he’s my favorite. I didn’t need to know anything about him, he captured my heart without batting those pretty long eyelashes of his.
I found ways to relate to all of our female protagonist, but Leila hit deeper. I saw so much of myself in her. She cares and doesn’t give up on people, no matter how much they turn her away.
Ariana has broken me to pieces once again but hitting us with a topic that hits very close to home for many of us. But she doesn’t bring up a topic and forget about it as so many other authors have.
So dear reader, reading this review and many others, do it. Read Fragile Lives. Because you’ll find a new home in Little Hope, just like we did.
All jokes aside now: I cried. A lot. Ariana has once again brought us a beautiful love story between two people who couldn’t have started off any more different than the other. Archie’s Naval past isn’t the only thing that shaped him and we learn a lot about why and who he truly is. Leila, we’ll Ariana explains who she is so well and continues to prove that.
A fallen hero and a hero complex. I don’t know if there’s a better pairing.
I’ve said it a million times since first meeting Archie, he’s my favorite. I didn’t need to know anything about him, he captured my heart without batting those pretty long eyelashes of his.
I found ways to relate to all of our female protagonist, but Leila hit deeper. I saw so much of myself in her. She cares and doesn’t give up on people, no matter how much they turn her away.
Ariana has broken me to pieces once again but hitting us with a topic that hits very close to home for many of us. But she doesn’t bring up a topic and forget about it as so many other authors have.
So dear reader, reading this review and many others, do it. Read Fragile Lives. Because you’ll find a new home in Little Hope, just like we did.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Read
November 9, 2023I just wasn’t feeling these characters. Archie’s character felt like a “man written by a woman” too much for my liking. I like a sensitive man, can appreciate flaws, and love a fictional alpha, but this didn’t work for me. He felt too soft, but not vulnerable, if that makes any sense.
And honestly, I can’t even remember the heroine’s name… yikes. 😬🫣
The writing was good, but this just didn’t work for me.
DNF @ 29%
And honestly, I can’t even remember the heroine’s name… yikes. 😬🫣
The writing was good, but this just didn’t work for me.
DNF @ 29%
June 6, 2023
don't ask me what the book was about bc they did nothing.
I did enjoy that tho, the troubles that these men have is really something tho.
I just wanna hug them and give them free therapy for life.
and the stalker plot of the story? did we forget about it until like 90% in???
I am speechless. It was a lost opportunity to make the plot interesting.
I'll be waiting for Kenneth, the last scene with him omg, it was ✨gold✨ 😌
I did enjoy that tho, the troubles that these men have is really something tho.
I just wanna hug them and give them free therapy for life.
and the stalker plot of the story? did we forget about it until like 90% in???
I am speechless. It was a lost opportunity to make the plot interesting.
I'll be waiting for Kenneth, the last scene with him omg, it was ✨gold✨ 😌
February 25, 2023
I have had trouble coming up with the words to truly give this book all the credit it deserves. This book will be in my top favorite just for the way it made me feel. This author has a way with words and the emotions she made me feel was amazing. Ariana Cane is able to right about real-world mental health problems people deal with in a beautiful way and give couples an HEA.
This book deals with depression, suicide, and PTSD. I love that she shows that it's okay to turn to others when things get too hard to handle on your own. It isn't weakness to show someone you need help no matter man or woman.
If you haven't read the Little Hope Series, I suggest starting with book 1 before diving into this one. In this book we get to know Archie who we have introduced to previously as Alex's friend from the military who is dealing with his own demons in his life, but always is there for everyone else. Along with Archie we have Leila who is Alex's younger sister. The first time Leila meets Archie she has no idea it is her brother's friend until she runs into him later. The first night they meet they share something special between the two of them. Yet, when he finds out that Leila is his best friends' little sister, he is told he can't go there, and he will respect his friends wishes. Archie always is watching out for other feelings, and thinking of people before him, but who is looking out for Archie and thinking of his feelings. I don't want to say too much because this is type of book to go in blind with. Archie and Leila will get their chance though and they can't stay away from each other. The pull between the two is strong no matter how hard they try to resist it. What these two people go through to end up together is heartbreaking at times. The relationship between them is deeper than any of the other couples in this series. I do love though that Leila gets this whole different side of Archie, he introduces himself to her as Stephen, and that is the man she falls head over heels for. Archie (Stephen) can be himself with Leila, it's so sweet. Leila truly does save Archie's life! There will be moments where you're holding your breath and can't read fast enough to find out what is going to happen.
Along with some serious topics there is also some hot spicy scenes. Archie and Leila have some amazing sexual chemistry. They both can be in charge in the bedroom and like it when they take turns being the more dominant one. Leila has no trouble telling Archie what she wants and how she wants it. Sex with Leila is totally different for Archie then it has ever been with any other woman. The author makes sure to give us the spice (with spankings)!!
There is also quite a bit of humor involved and the banter between people is so real. We get to know Kenneth so much better in this book and he is so funny, especially at the end of the book. The other characters in this book are just as important. I love the small town and that we get to catch up on everyone and everyone is always in each other's business. We have really gotten to know everyone in this town, and I love the descriptions we get of everyone. This is the first book to we get a glimpse at a mystery man that helps out Leila big time and I'm curious to see where that might go.
"He's looking at you as if you might be his lifeline. But if he loses you, that would be the last thing he loses. Do you understand me?"
"I grab her ass, lift her in the air and move to the loveseat-the name is so fitting for what I'm about to do."
"F*ck common sense. F*ck the consequences. For once in this lifetime, I'm letting myself just be, because she ordered me to."
This book deals with depression, suicide, and PTSD. I love that she shows that it's okay to turn to others when things get too hard to handle on your own. It isn't weakness to show someone you need help no matter man or woman.
If you haven't read the Little Hope Series, I suggest starting with book 1 before diving into this one. In this book we get to know Archie who we have introduced to previously as Alex's friend from the military who is dealing with his own demons in his life, but always is there for everyone else. Along with Archie we have Leila who is Alex's younger sister. The first time Leila meets Archie she has no idea it is her brother's friend until she runs into him later. The first night they meet they share something special between the two of them. Yet, when he finds out that Leila is his best friends' little sister, he is told he can't go there, and he will respect his friends wishes. Archie always is watching out for other feelings, and thinking of people before him, but who is looking out for Archie and thinking of his feelings. I don't want to say too much because this is type of book to go in blind with. Archie and Leila will get their chance though and they can't stay away from each other. The pull between the two is strong no matter how hard they try to resist it. What these two people go through to end up together is heartbreaking at times. The relationship between them is deeper than any of the other couples in this series. I do love though that Leila gets this whole different side of Archie, he introduces himself to her as Stephen, and that is the man she falls head over heels for. Archie (Stephen) can be himself with Leila, it's so sweet. Leila truly does save Archie's life! There will be moments where you're holding your breath and can't read fast enough to find out what is going to happen.
Along with some serious topics there is also some hot spicy scenes. Archie and Leila have some amazing sexual chemistry. They both can be in charge in the bedroom and like it when they take turns being the more dominant one. Leila has no trouble telling Archie what she wants and how she wants it. Sex with Leila is totally different for Archie then it has ever been with any other woman. The author makes sure to give us the spice (with spankings)!!
There is also quite a bit of humor involved and the banter between people is so real. We get to know Kenneth so much better in this book and he is so funny, especially at the end of the book. The other characters in this book are just as important. I love the small town and that we get to catch up on everyone and everyone is always in each other's business. We have really gotten to know everyone in this town, and I love the descriptions we get of everyone. This is the first book to we get a glimpse at a mystery man that helps out Leila big time and I'm curious to see where that might go.
"He's looking at you as if you might be his lifeline. But if he loses you, that would be the last thing he loses. Do you understand me?"
"I grab her ass, lift her in the air and move to the loveseat-the name is so fitting for what I'm about to do."
"F*ck common sense. F*ck the consequences. For once in this lifetime, I'm letting myself just be, because she ordered me to."
February 24, 2023
Fragile Lives, the fourth book in the Little Hope series by Ariana Cane is a small-town, age-gap, brother's best friend romance that will bring you to your knees!!! Seriously. No one can write a jam packed emotional story like Ariana can and this one was utter perfection! If you’ve stepped into the quaint picturesque town of Little Hope before, then I’m sure you’re quite familiar with the tattooed hottie Archie so you’ll be thrilled to see this is finally his much sought after story. And of course Ariana did NOT disappoint!
This is the story of Leila, Alex’s and Kenneth’s sister, and Archie, the other survivor from the incident that almost cost Alex his life, and to say that it was utter perfection and absolutely captivating would be an understatement.
Leila is by far one of my favorite heroines, seeing the world, and people, around her for the truth it really is and not afraid to call it as she sees it. Observant, courageous, strong and dedicated to the core I don’t think anyone could have helped Archie overcome his past better then her and I loved watching him slowly open up and reveal all his insecurities and pain to her. And when they finally come together? Holy hell!!! Their chemistry is so off the charts and so freaking delicious i loved every second of it and never wanted them to leave that cabin!! (iYKYK 🔥🥵🔥) And while their story flowed beautifully and covered all the essential necessary parts, I can’t help but wish we had more back history of Lelia like we had with Archie because she was just so dynamic I never wanted to let her go!
Overall this is a beautifully moving slow-burn, strangers-to-enemies-to-lovers, contemporary romance that will hit you in all the feels with all the trauma, pain, and emotional packed angst that both of these characters go through—but man is it a well sought after ending! And all those delicious tidbits along the way, setting up (hopefully) more to come stories of Little Hope are just to die for!!! I can’t wait for the next story and need it now!!!
And as always, just be mindful of triggers, as like with all of Ariana’s work, her characters are just so beautifully broken and tragically scarred you can’t help but feel connected to them and ache right alongside them, and Archie and Leila have definitely overcome a lot!
This is the story of Leila, Alex’s and Kenneth’s sister, and Archie, the other survivor from the incident that almost cost Alex his life, and to say that it was utter perfection and absolutely captivating would be an understatement.
Leila is by far one of my favorite heroines, seeing the world, and people, around her for the truth it really is and not afraid to call it as she sees it. Observant, courageous, strong and dedicated to the core I don’t think anyone could have helped Archie overcome his past better then her and I loved watching him slowly open up and reveal all his insecurities and pain to her. And when they finally come together? Holy hell!!! Their chemistry is so off the charts and so freaking delicious i loved every second of it and never wanted them to leave that cabin!! (iYKYK 🔥🥵🔥) And while their story flowed beautifully and covered all the essential necessary parts, I can’t help but wish we had more back history of Lelia like we had with Archie because she was just so dynamic I never wanted to let her go!
Overall this is a beautifully moving slow-burn, strangers-to-enemies-to-lovers, contemporary romance that will hit you in all the feels with all the trauma, pain, and emotional packed angst that both of these characters go through—but man is it a well sought after ending! And all those delicious tidbits along the way, setting up (hopefully) more to come stories of Little Hope are just to die for!!! I can’t wait for the next story and need it now!!!
And as always, just be mindful of triggers, as like with all of Ariana’s work, her characters are just so beautifully broken and tragically scarred you can’t help but feel connected to them and ache right alongside them, and Archie and Leila have definitely overcome a lot!
October 17, 2024
This was definitely the best book in the series! their trajectory is beautiful and raw, true in their approach to the themes. The intensity of Archie and the feelings he had, how Leila was the only one who could really see the masks he put on and how only she could make him be true. The way the author described Archie's depression was extremely touching and left me moved by its veracity, as a psychology student and someone who knows people who suffer from this illness, this book left me very moved by the true emotions conveyed by each word written. I'm simply in love with them, and I became even more hooked on this book when I saw that it was the one with the most smut in the series so far, especially because Archie is one of the hottest hahaha
I confess that I wanted to see more of them being a couple and surviving their problems, besides I think there was a lack of at least a brief mention about Archie going to therapy, even though the guilt he had ends up coming out, I still think there were questions there to be resolved with more than just Leila's love and it would have been nice to have at least one sentence saying that he was in therapy. But this did not make the book any less emotional or that the development of the characters was harmed in any way, quite the opposite. Anyway, it definitely became my favorite book in the series. I want extra chapters showing more of them as a couple aaahhhhh
and I also want to know who the mysterious powerful man is who helped in the end, I would easily read a book about him (if it already exists please tell me)
I'm already missing these two, and I know I'm going to spend some time trying to find a book with the same intensity they had.
I confess that I wanted to see more of them being a couple and surviving their problems, besides I think there was a lack of at least a brief mention about Archie going to therapy, even though the guilt he had ends up coming out, I still think there were questions there to be resolved with more than just Leila's love and it would have been nice to have at least one sentence saying that he was in therapy. But this did not make the book any less emotional or that the development of the characters was harmed in any way, quite the opposite. Anyway, it definitely became my favorite book in the series. I want extra chapters showing more of them as a couple aaahhhhh
and I also want to know who the mysterious powerful man is who helped in the end, I would easily read a book about him (if it already exists please tell me)
I'm already missing these two, and I know I'm going to spend some time trying to find a book with the same intensity they had.
March 15, 2023
This is the 4th book in the little hope series. This book follows Archie aka Stephan and Leila’s story. The last 3 books are really special to me. This one’s too! And each book of this series will be. This little hope world now feels like home 😌.
Archie? Hehe 🤭. Oh well when I got to know him a bit from the ‘haunted hearts’ I was like- I need to know everything about this man! I am glad now I know 👀. He is Alex’s best friend. And waiiiiit he becomes Alex’s sister’s boyfriend as well 🫢.
His past was dark and sad. His past proves that he’s really genuine . He can do anything for his loved ones (okay okay this is what military guys do, right?). The present life of him is described in this book where nothing is dark but it’s him who liked to be in dark. When his best-friend’s sister enters in his life. Everything changes (even him too).
Alex’s sister Leila who’s work is to heal things. This time she got a whole big guy to heal. Ahh it was hard for her 😩. She teaches him how to breathe. She’s one who rescued him from the dark. She knew only Archie is her future. But for Archie? She is more than a future to him. The ending was everything that made me so in love with this duo. Leila & Archie ~ oh be in heaven together. You 2 are perfect & deserve each other’s heart.
I loved their chemistry. It was magical, sometimes painful and sometimes funny. The ‘enemies to lovers’ trope was strong of course because Ariana is pro about this! I just love being into this Little Hope world. Please don’t let it end Arianaaaa!
Archie? Hehe 🤭. Oh well when I got to know him a bit from the ‘haunted hearts’ I was like- I need to know everything about this man! I am glad now I know 👀. He is Alex’s best friend. And waiiiiit he becomes Alex’s sister’s boyfriend as well 🫢.
His past was dark and sad. His past proves that he’s really genuine . He can do anything for his loved ones (okay okay this is what military guys do, right?). The present life of him is described in this book where nothing is dark but it’s him who liked to be in dark. When his best-friend’s sister enters in his life. Everything changes (even him too).
Alex’s sister Leila who’s work is to heal things. This time she got a whole big guy to heal. Ahh it was hard for her 😩. She teaches him how to breathe. She’s one who rescued him from the dark. She knew only Archie is her future. But for Archie? She is more than a future to him. The ending was everything that made me so in love with this duo. Leila & Archie ~ oh be in heaven together. You 2 are perfect & deserve each other’s heart.
I loved their chemistry. It was magical, sometimes painful and sometimes funny. The ‘enemies to lovers’ trope was strong of course because Ariana is pro about this! I just love being into this Little Hope world. Please don’t let it end Arianaaaa!
February 24, 2023
I started the book and first thing I read was the Authors Note. It made me emotional and I was contemplating what’s gonna come next, will it break my heart? And I said to myself lets see how it goes, and let me tell you I was not prepared for the intense emotions the story has at every turn. It’s heart breaking to see Archie/Stephan dangling on the edge.
I love Ariana’s writing and she writes from her heart, you can feel her love and devotion and passion for writing while reading any of her books. Every book she publishes has a uniqueness to it and every time I fall for her characters. There’s no comparison in her stories, each of them are different and equally lovable.
The story is deep and depression hits home, not all smiles are real. Leila is the only one who can see Archie’s mental state and she tries everything in her power to help him but can you really help someone of they don’t want it??? It’s a real struggle to achieve the outcome. They both are made in heaven pairs, fated mates types.
The conversations between Archie and Leila is to die for. They are so insightful and loving in their own way. The banter and Leila taking her stand is super amazing and entertaining. I had a good laugh reading the book, I cried at 90% and felt everything shattering but Leila was confident and that made me happy. The chemistry is intense. A must must read story.
I love Ariana’s writing and she writes from her heart, you can feel her love and devotion and passion for writing while reading any of her books. Every book she publishes has a uniqueness to it and every time I fall for her characters. There’s no comparison in her stories, each of them are different and equally lovable.
The story is deep and depression hits home, not all smiles are real. Leila is the only one who can see Archie’s mental state and she tries everything in her power to help him but can you really help someone of they don’t want it??? It’s a real struggle to achieve the outcome. They both are made in heaven pairs, fated mates types.
The conversations between Archie and Leila is to die for. They are so insightful and loving in their own way. The banter and Leila taking her stand is super amazing and entertaining. I had a good laugh reading the book, I cried at 90% and felt everything shattering but Leila was confident and that made me happy. The chemistry is intense. A must must read story.
February 20, 2023
You know that feeling when you love a book so much you cant put it down? Then you hit about the 80% mark, and you are afraid to pick it up because the story will be over? That is my relationship with this book.
It's not a secret that I would move to the fictional town Little Hope, Maine. I'm completely caught up in the people who live there. Ariana has created the perfect small town with plenty of drama.
We have met Archie in previous books. He is generous and kind beyond measure. However, his back story is tragic. He struggles with crippling depression and has given up. He meets Leila at the lowest point of his life. She charges into his and demands he just try. If not for him, then her. She becomes his life line and they fall hard.
I had so many emotions reading this. Sad, angry, happy, heartbroken, relief. It deals with some very tough subject matter that is close to my heart. Check your personal triggers because suicide ideation, self harm, survivors guilt is apart of this complex love story.
Archie and Leila may be my newest favorite couple in Little Hope.
Highlights
- Everyone is still pissed off at Justin. Same.
- Jake is about to get his redemption. I want it.
- Kenneth, everyone's big brother and county sheriff, is next. I know who I suspect his love interest is, but I'm sure Ariana won't tell me.
This can be read as a standalone, but you should read the entire series.
It's not a secret that I would move to the fictional town Little Hope, Maine. I'm completely caught up in the people who live there. Ariana has created the perfect small town with plenty of drama.
We have met Archie in previous books. He is generous and kind beyond measure. However, his back story is tragic. He struggles with crippling depression and has given up. He meets Leila at the lowest point of his life. She charges into his and demands he just try. If not for him, then her. She becomes his life line and they fall hard.
I had so many emotions reading this. Sad, angry, happy, heartbroken, relief. It deals with some very tough subject matter that is close to my heart. Check your personal triggers because suicide ideation, self harm, survivors guilt is apart of this complex love story.
Archie and Leila may be my newest favorite couple in Little Hope.
Highlights
- Everyone is still pissed off at Justin. Same.
- Jake is about to get his redemption. I want it.
- Kenneth, everyone's big brother and county sheriff, is next. I know who I suspect his love interest is, but I'm sure Ariana won't tell me.
This can be read as a standalone, but you should read the entire series.
February 23, 2023
🖤🖤🖤🖤/5
This book was an emotional ride and I wouldn’t have wanted it to be anything less, honestly.
Archie is ex-military and dealing with the trauma and wounds from that past life, even years later still. But aside from that, he has a troubled past in general. And so many emotional scars. I ached for Archie when it came to his depression, because it stemmed from self blame and guilt. I related to him on some occasions, but mostly I just cried for him, his pain, his grief, and his inability to let it all go.
And then there was Leila. She likes to “fix things” and Archie becomes part of that when she finds him alone one night looking awfully contemplative. What might have started out as her helping others, quickly turned into so much more and I loved how she was able to give Archie exactly what he needed right when he needed it most.
Their journey was wild, to put it mildly. And their chemistry was just as fiery. I loved watching them be who the other needed and fill each others lives with that one bright spot of happiness and protection.
I even enjoyed seeing more of Alex in this story as well, since he was connected to Archie’s past, but I wished we would’ve gotten to see more of their friendship along the way, rather than that void we saw between them at the current moment. But that didn’t take away from the story at all, and instead certainly amplified the tension and emotion throughout Archie’s story.
This book is definitely worth a read, but read the TW in the beginning before you start. Fragile Lives is exactly the type of book that you want to be prepared for or at least be aware of what triggers might be involved because of how deep it is.
Tread with care and read with love 🖤
This book was an emotional ride and I wouldn’t have wanted it to be anything less, honestly.
Archie is ex-military and dealing with the trauma and wounds from that past life, even years later still. But aside from that, he has a troubled past in general. And so many emotional scars. I ached for Archie when it came to his depression, because it stemmed from self blame and guilt. I related to him on some occasions, but mostly I just cried for him, his pain, his grief, and his inability to let it all go.
And then there was Leila. She likes to “fix things” and Archie becomes part of that when she finds him alone one night looking awfully contemplative. What might have started out as her helping others, quickly turned into so much more and I loved how she was able to give Archie exactly what he needed right when he needed it most.
Their journey was wild, to put it mildly. And their chemistry was just as fiery. I loved watching them be who the other needed and fill each others lives with that one bright spot of happiness and protection.
I even enjoyed seeing more of Alex in this story as well, since he was connected to Archie’s past, but I wished we would’ve gotten to see more of their friendship along the way, rather than that void we saw between them at the current moment. But that didn’t take away from the story at all, and instead certainly amplified the tension and emotion throughout Archie’s story.
This book is definitely worth a read, but read the TW in the beginning before you start. Fragile Lives is exactly the type of book that you want to be prepared for or at least be aware of what triggers might be involved because of how deep it is.
Tread with care and read with love 🖤
February 22, 2023
5⭐️ - oh my heart. This is easily one of my favorite books. Like of all time. Leila and Archie are precious, the journey to healing that they go through and the incredibly difficult topics in this book were written so so well. Highly recommend.
Forced proximity, brothers best friend/best friends little sister, small town romance. Read the trigger warnings for sure, this book deals with some very difficult themes and has some scenes that may be difficult to read.
After their random meeting at the lowest point in his life, Archie can’t help his feelings towards Leila. She is perfect and understands him more than anyone ever has. Problem is, she’s his best friends little sister, and all of her brothers have warned him off her.
Leila can see how broken Archie is, and can’t seem to bring herself to walk away. Being warned by her brothers that he can’t be her next project, she tries to leave him be, until they end up snowed in a remote cabin together for several days.
This book has my heart in its hands, I’m so excited to read more about the town of Little Hope and the new and improved Kenneth (iykyk). Highly recommend!
Forced proximity, brothers best friend/best friends little sister, small town romance. Read the trigger warnings for sure, this book deals with some very difficult themes and has some scenes that may be difficult to read.
After their random meeting at the lowest point in his life, Archie can’t help his feelings towards Leila. She is perfect and understands him more than anyone ever has. Problem is, she’s his best friends little sister, and all of her brothers have warned him off her.
Leila can see how broken Archie is, and can’t seem to bring herself to walk away. Being warned by her brothers that he can’t be her next project, she tries to leave him be, until they end up snowed in a remote cabin together for several days.
This book has my heart in its hands, I’m so excited to read more about the town of Little Hope and the new and improved Kenneth (iykyk). Highly recommend!
February 26, 2023
The intensity has been raised to the max, but HEA guaranteed!
"Fragile Lives" is book 4 in Ariana Cane's Little Hope Series. This book takes a darker turn than those that came before it, as it touches on the real issues related to returned soldiers' mental health.
"You're the only thing holding me together and they all know that!"
My advice is read your trigger warning list well so you won't encounter any unexpected surprises. However, Ariana's characters give us a very deep insight into these issues as they relate to the story, and whilst it is dark, desperate, and clouded in deception, the issues are handled with great care.
Bring the tissue box ~ although someone must have been cutting onions. I don't cry over books! 😂
This must be my favourite book in the series, although it's not for the faint of heart. I have been waiting for Archie's story… I knew it was going to catch me… He is such an intense character. And Leila… was a surprise.
HEA guaranteed but I was left wondering how they would ever make it!
Definitely recommend this book! What are you waiting for?
🖤 Happy Reading! 🖤
"Fragile Lives" is book 4 in Ariana Cane's Little Hope Series. This book takes a darker turn than those that came before it, as it touches on the real issues related to returned soldiers' mental health.
"You're the only thing holding me together and they all know that!"
My advice is read your trigger warning list well so you won't encounter any unexpected surprises. However, Ariana's characters give us a very deep insight into these issues as they relate to the story, and whilst it is dark, desperate, and clouded in deception, the issues are handled with great care.
Bring the tissue box ~ although someone must have been cutting onions. I don't cry over books! 😂
This must be my favourite book in the series, although it's not for the faint of heart. I have been waiting for Archie's story… I knew it was going to catch me… He is such an intense character. And Leila… was a surprise.
HEA guaranteed but I was left wondering how they would ever make it!
Definitely recommend this book! What are you waiting for?
🖤 Happy Reading! 🖤
January 5, 2024
This baby here was an aaaaaangsty and emotional one, I cried my eyes out throughout half the book. And it's for certain in my top 10 of 2023 reads 💖✨
And I much suggest you take a look on the TW ⚠️
Lyla, our fmc is Alex's little sister from book one, a fierce journalist and an incredible little_big sister. Got those Infj intuitive powers to know the right thing to say and sees right through you , which is unnerving for most, but she's also the epitome of empathy, love, and loyalty—an angel sent straight into our MC's laps.
Now, about Archie. His POV was one of the most heart-wrenching I've ever read from a male character. His internal struggles and guilt tearing him apart, leaving him and I quote "as broken as they come." His character development was deeply dark and took me on an emotional rollercoaster. I just cried, cried and cried some more.
The dynamics between the couple developed amidst such circumstances had me hooked from the first page. Their emotional journey, the intimacy, the spice, the kinks, the power dynamics (dom/domme), their friendship, and the depth of their connection—everything about their love story felt epic and soothing.
This book made me cry buckets, but it also healed parts of me I didn't even know weren't okay. It's truly a powerful read that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page. 📚✨
Ps: from the moment Lyla got called " fixer", I chose "fix you" by Coldplay as THE book song 📖
And I much suggest you take a look on the TW ⚠️
Lyla, our fmc is Alex's little sister from book one, a fierce journalist and an incredible little_big sister. Got those Infj intuitive powers to know the right thing to say and sees right through you , which is unnerving for most, but she's also the epitome of empathy, love, and loyalty—an angel sent straight into our MC's laps.
Now, about Archie. His POV was one of the most heart-wrenching I've ever read from a male character. His internal struggles and guilt tearing him apart, leaving him and I quote "as broken as they come." His character development was deeply dark and took me on an emotional rollercoaster. I just cried, cried and cried some more.
The dynamics between the couple developed amidst such circumstances had me hooked from the first page. Their emotional journey, the intimacy, the spice, the kinks, the power dynamics (dom/domme), their friendship, and the depth of their connection—everything about their love story felt epic and soothing.
This book made me cry buckets, but it also healed parts of me I didn't even know weren't okay. It's truly a powerful read that will stay with you long after you've turned the last page. 📚✨
Ps: from the moment Lyla got called " fixer", I chose "fix you" by Coldplay as THE book song 📖
February 22, 2023
This book was absolutely fantastic! The more I read from this author, the more I want to keep reading!!
This story was beautiful and haunting. Please pay attention to trigger warnings.
I loved everything about this one, the town, the mystery, the characters, EVERYTHING! The world-building is amazing!
I also appreciate how very real the characters are, and that although love might heal, it doesn't eradicate the unpleasantness altogether, but allows people to better navigate their circumstances. Although I don't have personal experience with certain topics of this story, this story really resonated with me and gave me pause on my perspective.
The story was fantastically written, the pace was perfect, and I spent the majority of this book thinking "I did not expect that" (a total bonus). And the cherry on the cake was the great spice! (Mature 18+ audiences only for this one).
This book is a wild ride from start to end that will rip you apart in the best way!!
This story was beautiful and haunting. Please pay attention to trigger warnings.
I loved everything about this one, the town, the mystery, the characters, EVERYTHING! The world-building is amazing!
I also appreciate how very real the characters are, and that although love might heal, it doesn't eradicate the unpleasantness altogether, but allows people to better navigate their circumstances. Although I don't have personal experience with certain topics of this story, this story really resonated with me and gave me pause on my perspective.
The story was fantastically written, the pace was perfect, and I spent the majority of this book thinking "I did not expect that" (a total bonus). And the cherry on the cake was the great spice! (Mature 18+ audiences only for this one).
This book is a wild ride from start to end that will rip you apart in the best way!!
February 13, 2023
Story - 4.5/5
Angst - 4.5/5
Spice - 5/5
*I was gifted this book as an ARC and my opinions are my own*
Archie, oh Archie... he needed so much love and Leila was his perfect match.
Sometimes, we hide our trauma in plain sight and it takes a very strong person to break through our walls to get to the space of actual healing. Leila knew what she wanted and wasn't afraid of her vulnerability and I appreciated her so much for this!
What I found I liked most about both characters is that they were looking for such a deep connection that may have tipped the line of toxic but I saw the all consuming love they sought.
Archie's spiral was handled really well and as someone that's been at the bottom of despair before, I connected so much with his push and pull with validation.
And OMG the SPICE! Ariana - girl, you're a QUEEN!
My only tiny tiny issue was that there were some minor grammatical / spelling errors but that did not deter from the overall story.
WHEN AM I GETTING KENNETH'S STORY?!!!
Angst - 4.5/5
Spice - 5/5
*I was gifted this book as an ARC and my opinions are my own*
Archie, oh Archie... he needed so much love and Leila was his perfect match.
Sometimes, we hide our trauma in plain sight and it takes a very strong person to break through our walls to get to the space of actual healing. Leila knew what she wanted and wasn't afraid of her vulnerability and I appreciated her so much for this!
What I found I liked most about both characters is that they were looking for such a deep connection that may have tipped the line of toxic but I saw the all consuming love they sought.
Archie's spiral was handled really well and as someone that's been at the bottom of despair before, I connected so much with his push and pull with validation.
And OMG the SPICE! Ariana - girl, you're a QUEEN!
My only tiny tiny issue was that there were some minor grammatical / spelling errors but that did not deter from the overall story.
WHEN AM I GETTING KENNETH'S STORY?!!!
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