Just a Little Promise

Dare Crossover #3

by Carly Phillips, Erika Wilde

He’s the one she’s never forgotten.
She’s the one he regrets letting go.
Now they have a second chance to get it right.

When Skye Tremont runs into her sexy former flame, Tripp Daniels, she’s reminded of the baby pact they’d made years ago… If she was single and childless by the age of thirty, he’d step in and be her baby daddy and fulfill her dream of having a child.

Now, after a bitter divorce that has left her guarding her heart, and wanting only one thing, Skye is ready to take Tripp up on his promise. When he’s one of the bachelors up for bid at a charity auction, it’s the perfect opportunity to have him all to herself for a weekend of baby making fun, as long as he agrees to her terms.

Tripp is on board to fulfill the promise he made to Skye. If he’s going to have a baby with anyone, it’s going to be the one woman he’d foolishly let slip through his fingers. But not this time because he’s all in. Skye is even more beautiful than he remembers, and the chemistry between them is hotter than ever, but while she gives him free rein with her body, she’s made it clear her heart is off limits.

Now, with a second chance within his grasp, Tripp is prepared to do whatever it takes to win the woman he loves and give them both the family they’ve always craved.

Genres: Romance, Second Chance, Contemporary Romance, Contemporary, Audiobook, Family, Fiction

242 pages, Kindle Edition

First published January 17, 2024

About the author

NY Times, Wall Street Journal, and USA Today Bestseller, Carly Phillips is the queen of Alpha Heroes, at least according to The Harlequin Junkie Reviewer.. Carly married her college sweetheart and lives in Purchase, NY along with her crazy dogs who are featured on her Facebook and Instagram pages. The author of over 75 romance novels, she has raised two incredible daughters and is now an empty nester. Carly’s book, The Bachelor, was chosen by Kelly Ripa as her first romance club pick. Carly loves social media and interacting with her readers. Want to keep up with Carly? Sign up for her newsletter and receive TWO FREE books at www.carlyphillips.com.

Reviews

[Jo Reads Romance · Rating 5 out of 5]

Baby making fun
5 stars

This is another fun collaboration between Carly Phillips and Erika Wilde, the third in their Dare Crossover series. It features side characters from the Dirty Dare / Kingston Family series’ who are all connected in some way or another. But you don’t have to have read any other books to understand and enjoy this one. In fact, when Tripp is trying to tell Skye about all the connections, he often leaves it with just a “it’s complicated”! So if she doesn’t need to know, neither do you!

I’m pretty sure Tripp and Skye were teased in the previous book in this series, Just a Little Secret, about Tripp’s brother, Derek. But I don’t think that the authors stuck with their original plan as how Skye and Tripp reconnect isn’t the same as it was in the teaser and the bachelor auction takes place mid-story rather than at the start. But no bother - it’s all good so long as I get a good romance.

And I definitely did. Tripp and Skye were, well, mostly friends with benefits back in college until Skye caught feelings and Tripp decided he wasn’t ready for commitment. Not a terrible crime on Tripp’s part but even if we did feel he’d been cruel to Skye, it’s more than made up for by the realisation that he’s regretted his decision ever since. He’s a likeable character all round and I enjoyed the way that he knew that he wanted Skye forever rather than just as a hook-up or as her baby daddy. Sort of unrequited / he falls first vibes even if we know fine well that Skye feels the same way but is just scared to open herself up again.

Skye is more complicated than Tripp in that she’s gone through an abusive marriage that has definitely left some emotional scars. You understand her reticence to have a real relationship even if it’s fairly obvious that her walls aren’t going to last under Tripp’s onslaught. I liked her blend of feisty and a little damaged. She was real and I rooted for her.

Together Tripp and Skye have a good chemistry and seeing that they’re old friends, sex happens very quickly in the book. But due to their shared history, they still have an emotional connection which is essential for me to enjoy the characters. Tripp has a bit of a bossiness in the bedroom which is what Skye needs and what I like. Definitely two thumbs up for the sex scenes. Hardly surprising when you’re reading a book from the queens of Harlequin Blaze (RIP).

There’s also a little bit of, well, I suppose you could call it suspense, happening in the book what with Skye’s ex-husband causing problems. Perhaps ‘danger’ is a better word. It doesn’t dominate the story, it doesn’t unnecessarily scare you, but it adds a nice tension to the story later on. It came at a time when the story was just beginning to slow, so it definitely kept me hooked.

I make no bones about the fact that I love Carly Phillips writing and her characters - and she and Erika Wilde definitely make a great writing pair. The stories are short, sexy and always an enjoyable and satisfying read. Whether you’re a fan of either author or you just want a cute, second chance romance, I would recommend this to you. 5 stars.

[Julie Booklover · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love the Dare world, and when Carly Phillips and Erika Wilde team up it is always enjoyable. In another installment of the Charity Bachelor event, we have Tripp Daniels turn on the runway. Only he might not be a bachelor anymore.

Skye Tremont dated Tripp, but the timing was not right, and their goals did not match. Skye is one year divorced and has the desire to be a mom. She plans to do so, when she crosses paths with Tripp. They had a good thing at one time, and there was a baby pact discussed. Is now their time? Are there second chances for the one who got away?

Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.

[QuinnReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Let's Make a Baby!

DV haunts Skye Abbott (Tremont) as she continues working on getting her life back after years of damage from her ex. I admire women who find their way out of those situations and get the help they need to avoid sliding back into it. Most of it is off-screen, but it's there with some detail.

Tripp Daniels is surprisingly aware of some of the tells, making me love this patient and tender man even more. I like that he smartly pursues Skye, knowing that not only did he make a mistake years ago, but she's skittish.

“After my divorce, the last thing I’m in the market for is a man. Well, except for maybe his swimmers,” she added humorously.
-- Skye Abbott

There are some timeline inconsistencies, but I think they're minor. I find myself more interested in their chemistry and baby making fun. 😁🔥🥳

This isn't all light and fun as the past pays a visit. Man, oh, man! The way that all goes.... Yeah, I think I have a crush. 😍

I enjoyed the audio book as part of the 'Dare Crossover' series. The narrators, Angelina Rocca and Alex Knox, are very likeable and good choices for these characters. 🎧❤️🎧

Story: 4 stars
Narration: 4 stars
Listening Speed: 1.8x

H = 36; h = 30

[Michelle the Romance Witch · Rating 5 out of 5]

Nothing is better than a story of two people both getting a second chance at the one this they both want more than anything else in the world—even if they don’t agree one just what they are getting. This fun crossover series written in the world of the Dare/Kingston family by Carly Phillips in conjunction with Erika Wilde is one that continues to thrill me as each new book shapes up. Each story begins around the Bachelor Auction for charity hosted by Chloe Kingston and with each story we get a new POV and a new see a new bachelor find himself falling in love. Because of this the timelines overlap and each of the storylines interweave together and we get glimpses of just who might be falling next. In this latest installment former lovers are brought back together in big way and the auction is just the excuse they need to rekindle their past and fulfill a pact from long ago. I am enjoying reach of these fun stories and can’t wait for the next one because I suspect who it might be about and if I’m correct it will be beyond fascinating to experience.

Skye Tremont is finally free from her ex and living a life that she is content with, except for the one thing she has always wanted—a baby. She is enjoying her new job and freedom when she runs into the one man from her past who can shatter the delicate balance of her fairytale, the one man that she never stopped loving but that broke her heart irrevocably. Tripp Daniels is amazed to look across his favorite bar one night and see the face of the woman he left a decade ago but he can’t deny he still wants and loves her. Determined to prove there is still something real between them, Tripp sets out to remind Skye why they were so good together but she had built walls high and strong around her heart, leaving only one small allowance for him to get through. She will allow him to be the father of her baby, but she won’t let him have her heart—unless he can break through once and for all and prove they should have been together all along. Now that he has a small opening, Tripp will do whatever it takes to get through to Skye, but he needs to protect her from her abusive ex-husband first or they might not ever have a chance at have the life together they so badly deserve.

I truly enjoyed every moment of this story, even as I watch Skye struggle with her issues of self-confidence and self-worth after her bastard ex-husband’s treatment. Skye was obviously a bright light that her ex tried so badly to steal for himself and when he wasn’t able to really earn her heart, he tried to snuff out her light. She was sweet, loving, caring, strong, brave and I could totally see her being one of my girlfriends if I met her in real life. I felt badly for all the challenges she was forced to face, but between the love of her family and the love that she found with Tripp she had the support she finally needed to stand up once and for all and bring down her ex. Tripp is a good guy that made a dumb decision in his youth, leaving a good woman behind because he thought it was the right thing to do. I will say that while that pissed me off, he definitely got smarter as he got older, because the moment he set eyes on Skye again he knew there was no way he was letting her go again. He is smart, resilient, kind, adoring, and sweet as he tried to convince Skye that he is the man she needs for her partner in all aspects of her life. I was thrilled to see him finding small ways to give her exactly what she asked for and needed, instead of just bulldozing over her as so many males do, but at the same time he showed her she could trust him to always be there for her. We can easily see these two are meant to be and will make a beautiful couple and even more beautiful family when the time comes.

Just a Little Promise is a story of two people, separated by decades, but brought back together by fate and a time in their lives when they can offer one another exactly what they need. Even as Skye resists the truth, that Tripp is offering her so much more than just his “baby making” presence in her life, she is also coming to trust and believe in him, caring for him again in the way she did in her youth. While she still has hangups from her previous relationship, we watch her slowly open herself up to Trip and give him more and more of herself to Tripp as he shows her the man he is today and how much he loves her. Tripp is a man that knows what he lost and what he needs to do to prove that he will never again give up on them. His willingness to do whatever it takes to prove he is there for the long haul shows his moral character and the strength of his love. Watching these two circle and dance together as they fall back in love was beautiful and passionate, but of course I expected nothing less from these two authors as they team up for this series. I am looking forward to seeing more couples from this bachelor auction as they fall in lust and ultimately find love, because let’s be real, what could be sexier that billionaire bachelors being auctioned off for charity and then falling love with the women that win them. What a dream come true that would be! But until that happens for me, I will just keep enjoying reading about it happening for these ladies.

[Joana Alves · Rating 4 out of 5]

Para mim um livro de avaliação 3.5/4. Uma historia bonita, envolvente e atual, com que muitos de nós nos iremos identificar dada a situação que retrata, no entanto considero um romance que não surpreende ao longo da leitura. Contudo, acho que tem algumas referências que podem deixar a pensar.

[Megan · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a steamy, fun, baby-making book, and I am not mad at it!

Skye is divorced from an abusive husband, and she's sworn to never need a man again, except for one thing: She wants to have a baby. She's decided to go the artificial insemination route to avoid any messy entanglements. But then, she runs into an old flame, and things start to look a little less clear. Could Tripp be the real answer to her baby daddy problem?

Tripp Daniels has known pretty much from the first minute after he broke up with Skye that it was a mistake. But he was in med school, and she needed so much more than he could give her at the time. She got married within a year of their breakup, and he thought he missed his chance forever. When he runs into her at the bar, and finds out she's single again, all bets are off. But, she isn't the same carefree girl he once knew, and he's not sure what he'll need to do to convince her to give him another chance. When he finds out she wants a baby, he volunteers as tribute.

Tripp and Skye had chemistry like whoa, and their reconnection was FIRE. But Skye had walls around her heart that weren't there before, and Tripp was determined to break them down. He never really got over her, and he knew he could never lose her again. So he was IN, no matter what she threw at him. I loved that he was so into her, and she needed someone to love and care for her unconditionally.

It's always fun seeing characters from past books show up, and of course we got some of that here, since Tripp's brother is the hero from a prior story. I also enjoyed meeting Tripp's business partners, as they could easily be future heroes!

This book was just FUN, and I really enjoyed reading it. As always, I'm looking forward to what's next!

I received an advanced copy of this book from the author. This review is my personal opinion, voluntarily given.
Reviewed by Megan from Romanced by the Book

[Mags · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐

Carly Phillips and Erika Wilde combine once again for a delightful second chance romance.

As Skye Tremont moves to New York to start again and escape her narcissistic ex-husband Jack who's behaviour and mental abuse has done a real number on her and her confidence. Which has left her trust in men not related to her at zero.

That is until she bumps into Tripp Daniels an ex-boyfriend who she was once head over heels in love with and vice versa. And whom she made a pact with that if she was still single and childless at thirty they would have a baby together.

A baby Skye is desperately thinking of conceiving and has even looked at all the ways to make that possible.

But once Tripp sets his eyes on her all his old feelings come flooding back. Yet, he also notices a big difference in her. As she's not the confident, out going girl he once worshipped.

And he soon learns why, and will do anything to prove he is one man she can trust.

He's also ready to give her the baby she craves.

Only Skye is determined that if she does get pregnant her and Tripp will be nothing more than friends and co-parents.

But Tripp is playing for keeps. 

And with emotion, heat, family feels and a little danger. This was a really enjoyable read. I just wish it had been longer and the romance between Tripp and Skye a little more developed. As I adored them and especially Tripp with his family history, etc.

I would happily recommend Just a little Promise to all.

My thanks to Booksprout and the authors for the opportunity to read an early copy of Just a little Promise. 😊

[Felice Foster · Rating 4 out of 5]

The third book in the Dare Crossover Series focuses on Skye getting her groove back.

I really enjoyed this book and so glad Skye wasn’t on a “hate all men” train. She was cautious and didn’t want a permanent relationship with anyone, but she didn’t paint every man with her ex-husband’s evil brush.

This was about her trusting herself again. She already knew that Tripp was an honest stand up guy, but her self worth and that little voice that we all have was tattered and unsure. 

That Tripp let her take her time to really trust him and herself again, was so lovely to see. No pressure, well maybe a little, but for the most part, he let her set the pace.

There is also some harrowing moments in here and someone gets their comeuppance. Living for these crossovers.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Daisy Nijs · Rating 5 out of 5]

In college, Tripp and Skye were friends with benefits, until one of them got their feelings involved and the other one wasn’t ready for anything more. But they made a pact. If Skye was still childless at the age of thirty, Tripp would be her baby daddy.
Now, years later, they come into each other’s lives again, and he will come through on his promise and make sure that she knows he’s all in.
I am a big fan of Carly Phillips’ book, and the collab with Erika Wilde is just a big extra.
The Kingston/ Dare crossovers are always a fun read, steamy scenes, a bit of suspense and quick updates on other characters from this world.

[Karen · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love this dare world and another book Carly Phillips did not disappoint. She writes great chemistry and this couple is no exception.

Tripp and Skye used to date but wasn’t the right time or circumstance but now it is. Skye went through a lot in her prior relationship and now her and Tripp
have to go through alot to get to their HEA but it’s all worth it. Their chemistry was off the charts . I loved their friendship and what turned into a beautiful love story. He never pushed her or made her feel anything less than safe and was patient with Skye. Def recommend this book.

[Tanja OMGReads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tripp and Skye have found each other again after being a part for 5 years. The separation is set heavily on Tripps heart. When he broke things off he didn't know what would send in motion for the both of them. But now their paths have crossed and he's determined not to let her slip through his fingers.

Skye has not had an easy life while they were apart. She's fundamentally changed and is not looking to be in a relationship now or maybe never. But she knows him and can let her guard down even if it's not the smartest move. But seeing him again and having him show her just how much he wants her in his life, might be just the glimpse of hope she thought she lost and reaching for the HEA he promises might not be such a hard choice to make after all.

***Review copy requested and reviewed on behalf of OMGReads Blog***

[Alicia · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 stars

A quick, second chance romance with Skye and Tripp as our lead characters. Following a chance meeting, old feelings re-emerge as these two realise that they have a new opportunity to find happiness with each other. Their connection is even stronger now that they are older and have, in Skye's case particularly, experienced that which they do not want.
This is a good read with many positives. I didn't find myself connected terribly well with the characters as they aren't really developed to a huge extent and any tension is quickly dissipated. A nice quick read. 💖💖💖

[Cali Jewel · Rating 4 out of 5]

Edge of your seat emotional thrill ride that reunites this amazing couple and gives them a second chance to have it all. A highly entertaining and emotionally thrilling romantic journey that is filled with so much longing, need and undeniable passion.... was a great read.

[Jennifer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Yay. This was better than 2…really liked Tripp and Skye.

[Patricia (Spellbound Stories Trish) · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just A Little Promise was a sweet and super enjoyable read! It was on the shorter end but the story was still packed with emotion and lots of steam!

This beautiful story is a second chance romance and I love how easy and fun the reconnection was between Tripp and Skye! I really wish we would’ve gotten more with them but you can tell that they had a great foundation and trust between them!

Tripp seriously had a heart of gold and had such amazing patience with Skye. He knew when to push but also when to let her be.

[Erin Under_Covers_Smut_Lover · Rating 3 out of 5]

Rating 3.25⭐️
Spice 3🌶

Tropes:
- Second Chance
- Baby Making Pact
- The One That Got Away
- Dirty Talking MMC
- Third Person POV

Why did I do this to myself? I wish I wouldn't have got a third-person POV book. I had a hard time wanting to read it. Maybe if I had listened to this book, it would have been better. Even though I struggled to read it, I did.

Tripp and Skye were old college hookup buddies. Skye fell hard for Tripp, but he didn't return those same feelings. Even though he thought about her a lot over the next 5 years, she was the one who got away. They did make a pact, though. If they both didn't have a child by the time they were 30, they'd have one together.

Tripp is still the fun-loving guy but wants Skye back when she shows up in New York. Although, Skye is not her old self. She been through a horrible relationship with a guy who had worn her down. Once Tripp figures out why she's like this, he'll do anything to protect her. She's hoping he'll live up to his end of the deal about having a baby with her. She wants one so bad, but Skye thinks once she's pregnant, everything between her and Tripp will stop besides friendship and parenting. Tripp had other plans, though. He wants her for the long haul. Will they get their HEA family, or does Skye's ex-husband have other plans?

Even though this was better than the first one I read, it was still missing something. I wish there would have been more romance in this book. There was plenty of spice, don't get me wrong. It was just missing the romantic aspect. Or it didn't show it enough, is a better way to put it. Even though it was a pact they made, if Tripp was playing for keeps, I feel like it should have been more romantic. As with the last one, this is meant to be smut and not a good one. Yes, there is some action towards the end, which was very short, but something more. Then, there was the third person POV. I did that to myself, though.

I received this as an Advance Readers Copy from Wildfire Marketing Solutions, and this is my honest opinion.

[Valeen Robertson (Live Thru Books Blog) · Rating 4 out of 5]

eBooks:
Kindle / Apple / Nook / Kobo / Google

Print:
Amazon Print / BN Print



Skye's trying to move on from her marriage, which was a horrible one. Now she's finally single, and her clock is ticking. She had a pact with her former fwb that if she was childless at 30, the two would have a baby together. But seeing as Tripp's not in the picture now, she'll just have to find someone else to give her that baby. Then she runs into Tripp and suddenly it's looking like that pact might actually come to fruition. But only if Tripp can get past Skye's walls and into the heart she's put on ice.



Back when he and Skye had their casual thing, Tripp knew he couldn't offer her what she wanted, deserved - a commitment, even that white picket fence and all that jazz. He was focused on his pediatric surgery residency and at that point just couldn't (wouldn't) see himself giving her more than their casual arrangement, regardless of both their strong feelings. Now though? Seeing her again has made all those same feelings come rushing back, and he's more than ready to take on parenthood with her, and even more significantly, forever, commitment, and love.



I love it when the guy falls first, which is sort of the case here. I say sort of because of their history, when she had feelings he didn't exactly share. But now in their present, he's definitely the one driving the commitment, the need for forever. Skye is deservedly wary of being hurt again, so very understandably she didn't want to commit to anything beyond making a baby. Thank God the ice around her heart was no match for Tripp's determination. The added bonus of some suspense gives this delicious story an edge showcasing Skye's strength and Tripp's protective instincts, leaving me with anticipation for more Dare crossovers.



ARC provided by Wildfire Marketing Solutions for an honest review.

Review / Release Blitz: Live Through Books Blog.

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[Lisa D · Rating 5 out of 5]

Terrific story. I've enjoyed this series so much. The way both characters support each other and how Tripp makes sure that Skye feels safe and knows that he cares about her. A beautiful love story between these two.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Laura Fabian · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC kindly provided in exchange for an honest review

Just a Little Promise is my favorite book in the series, I think the authors gave a different structure to the story of Skye & Tripp compared to the previous books and I really enjoyed reading them, especially because they are a very sweet couple, and I loved the direction in which their love went throughout its pages.

Skye has an unexpectedly heartbreaking story that has led her to guard her heart to avoid further suffering, but she's still determined to achieve her dream of being a mother, having an independent life and be happy again. I really liked the introduction that Carly & Erika gave to her character, how they showed her relationship with her brother Spencer, a little of her past with Tripp and how he broke his heart because it helped to know her much more.

Tripp is a charming man, a pediatric surgeon who focused on his career and let Skye go years ago, but after regretting that decision he's willing to fight for the opportunity to return to her life and to fulfill her promise to give Sky the baby she so desperately wants. Tripp is a very funny, tender character who totally understands Skye's needs, even when he doesn't always like to give her what she asks for.

Skye & Tripp have an interesting past history: they were friends with benefits years ago and he decided to end the relationship because Skye needed something Tripp was not willing to give, but when Tripp meets her unexpectedly he decides to take that second chance that life gives him and I LOVED reading them reconnect in such a simple way, even when Skye tries to protect her heart.

🍼Tripp: 5/5
🍼Skye: 5/5
🍼Plot: 5/5
🍼Love story: 5/5
🍼Secondary characters: 5/5
🍼Universe: 5/5
🍼Cover: 5/5
🌶️: 2/5

ARC amablemente proporcionada a cambio de una reseña honesta

Just a Little Promise es mi libro favorito de la serie, creo que las autoras le dieron una estructura distinta a la historia de Skye & Tripp con respecto a los libros anteriores y me gustó mucho leerlos, especialmente porque son una pareja muy dulce, y amé la dirección en la que su amor se fue a lo largo de sus páginas.

Skye tiene una historia inesperadamente desgarradora que la ha llevado a resguardar su corazón para evitar más sufrimiento, pero aún así está determinada a conseguir su sueño de ser madre, tener una vida independiente y ser feliz de nuevo. Me gustó mucho la introducción que Carly & Erika le dieron a este personaje, como mostraron su relación con su hermano Spencer, un poco de su pasado con Tripp y como le rompió el corazón porque me ayudó mucho más a conocerla.

Tripp es un hombre que encantador, un cirujano pediátrico que se concentró en su carrera y dejo ir a Skye años atrás, pero que después de arrepentirse de esa decisión está dispuesto a luchar por la oportunidad de regresar a su vida y de cumplir su promesa de darle a Sky el bebé que tanto desea. Tripp es un personaje muy divertido, tierno y que entiende totalmente las necesidades de Skye, aún cuando no siempre le gusta darle lo que ella le pide.

Skye & Tripp tienen una historia pasada muy interesante: fueron amigos con derechos hace años y él decidió terminar la relación porque Skye necesitaba algo Tripp no estaba dispuesto a dar, pero cuando Tripp se encuentra con ella inesperadamente decide tomar esa segunda oportunidad que la vida le da y AMÉ leerlos reconectar de manera tan sencilla, aún cuando Skye intenta proteger su corazón.

🍼Tripp: 5/5
🍼Skye: 5/5
🍼Trama: 5/5
🍼Historia de amor: 5/5
🍼Personajes secundarios: 5/5
🍼Universo: 5/5
🍼Portada: 5/5
🌶️: 2/5

[Jackie (Jackie's Book World) · Rating 5 out of 5]

***Review can also be found at Jackie's Book World. :)***

As the third book in the Dare Crossover Series, Phillips and Wilde deliver a second chance romance in Just a Little Promise. This steamy story is about new beginnings that will leave you wanting for more!

At the beginning of the book we are introduced to Skye Abbott, who has recently gone through a tremendous divorce. Leaving her vulnerable and making it hard to trust again. But it’s been months since she moved to New York from Boston and Skye has managed to rebuild her confidence while being in a good mental head space. As the assistant event coordinator at the Meridian Hotel, Skye has worked really hard to start over and move into the apartment/area that she can finally feel save in.

Yet, the clock is ticking and there is something that Skye has always wanted more than anything, to be a mother. It did not work with her ex, but she is willing to be a single mother. Until she runs into Tripp Daniels, the man who broke her heart with his inability to to be more than friends with benefits. Reminding Skye of the promise that he made to her all those year ago, that if she was still childless and single by the age of thirty, he’ll give her the baby that she’s always dream of having. Skye is aware that she can’t get emotionally attached to Tripp this time around, but he is determined to win her over again no matter what.

At thirty-six, Tripp has managed to open a family practice with two of his friends/business partners. His dream and hard work to get into pediatrics has paid off. Yet, no matter how successful he is, his biggest regret was to let Skye go all those years ago. Bumping into her again felt like fate and he’s been given a second chance to make things right with her. But she has made it clear that there can’t be anything more between them and Tripp will work hard to give them a chance. Little do they know that their lives are about to change forever.

I throughly enjoyed reading Just a Little Promise, the chemistry is off the charts between Skye and Tripp. Though they have history, they are able to pick up where they left off right away. Only this time around the tables have turned and Skye doesn’t want to give Tripp her heart. So it’s on Tripp to win her over once again and prove that he is worthy of a second chance. But it won’t be easy and they’ll have unite in order to be together. I loved the ending and how the authors gives us a glimpse of the next book in the series. I cannot wait to read it, I would highly recommend checking out this book/series as well. :)

***I received an advanced copy from the publisher. All opinions are my own.***

[Jane Royal · Rating 5 out of 5]

Tripp Daniels is an accomplished pediatric surgeon. While he residency in Boston, he met and fell in love with Skye Abbot. Only for Tripp, the timing was wrong as he was knee deep in training and hours upon hours in medicine and felt that there wasn’t enough hours in the day to give to Skye. Without consulting her, he let her go. A decision he would come to regret. Skye Abbot moved on and married with the hope of having children by 30 as was her set goal. Only that was not to happen. She left her abusive husband and moved to NYC/Brooklyn and into an apartment she would share, temporarily with her brother Spencer. And she would, as Readers learn in the first chapter, learn martial arts to protect herself. She finds employment as an Event Coordinator at the Dare family hotel Meridian. She and her co-worker Lauren go the the Zach Dare owned bar The Back Door and there she literally pumps into Tripp Daniels. He invites Skye to sit and catch up and they end up back at his place. She shares with him her desire to be a single mother and is looking at sperm donors. Tripp offers to be THAT sperm donor for her. After all, they are compatible, they know each other and unbeknownst to Skye, he wants to be more than just a donor. He wants to be a father to their child and more, a husband to the only woman who had ever mattered. And by Chapter 2 readers are totally hooked in their complex story. Will Tripp be patient with the “only sex when ovulating” rule Skye sets up? Will Skye be willing to lower protective walls that she erected after her abusive husband? Will she and Tripp overcome their past..mistakes.

As per usual, Carly Phillips and Erika Wilde have combined to create real characters. Readers will not only root for these two but also for Skye to overcome the lingering fears she has about her last relationship. Their characters are warm, witty, feisty and determined. Even the give and take between the protectiveness of her brother Spencer is believable especially to those younger sisters with older brothers. Readers will hope that those lines in the pregnancy tests will be positive and also for some HEA as they deserve it. There are a few twists and turns and of course family… Tripp’s and a Bachelor Auction to raise funds for children who are aging out of foster care. A project near and dear to the hearts of the Kingston-Dare families. And to the 2 authors. After all, there are still stories about all of those auctioned off bachelors and Lauren’s and Chase’s story is up next.
An absolutely fun read with a minimum of 5 stars. Most definitely a high of 10. Can an old love be rekindled into a HEA? Guess you will just have to read.

[Sandy S · Rating 4 out of 5]

JUST A LITTLE PROMISE is the third instalment in the contemporary, adult DARE CROSSOVER erotic, romance series co-authored by Carly Phillips and Erika Wilde. This is Dr. Tripp Daniels, and thirty year old, assistant event coordinator Skye Abbot-Tremont’s story line. JUST A LITTLE PROMISE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty. Any important information from the previous story lines or series is revealed where necessary. The DARE cross over series is interconnected with the authors’ KINGSTON Family, DARE and DIRTY DARE series.

NOTE: Due to the nature of the story line premise, there may be triggers for more sensitive readers

Told from omniscient third person perspectives (Tripp and Skye) JUST A LITTLE PROMISE follows the second chance relationship between our leading couple. Skye Abbott is rebounding from a bitter divorce, and she is hoping one-day to become a mother but Skye never expected to run into Dr. Tripp Daniels, the one man she has never forgotten. Five years earlier, Tripp and Skye were a couple but Tripp had plans for the future, and there was no time for a relationship while in medical school. Fast forward to present day, Skye’s arrival in New York and ultimately Brooklyn finds Skye face to face with her past in the guise of our story line hero, the man who continues to stir something deep inside. Skye’s plans for a child are about to take on a new direction when when Tripp offers up himself as the potential father. What ensues is the rebuilding romance and relationship between our story line couple as Skye’s past refuses to let go.

The world building follows Skye and Tripp as they navigate the process of getting pregnant but someone may be stalking our story line heroine, and Tripp suspects it is someone from her past.


The relationship between Skye and Tripp is one of second chances: a rebuilding romance in which Skye struggles to trust in the face of her failed marriage, and Tripp is hoping for something more. The $ex scenes are erotic and passionate without the use of over the top sexually graphic language and text.

We are introduced to Skye’s brother Spencer, her friend and co-worker Lauren, as well as several member of Tripp’s extended Dare/Kingston family.

JUST A LITTLE PROMISE is a story of family and friendships, relationships and love. The character driven premise is captivating and exciting; the rekindling romance is seductive ; The characters are determined and real.


www.thereadingcafe.com

copy supplied for review

[Jami Birnbaum · Rating 5 out of 5]

*An advance reader copy was provided to me in exchange for an honest review.*

Skye Tremont and Tripp Daniels have a shared past that ended when Tripp was in medical school, and he decided for the two of them that he could not be in a committed relationship. He thought he was doing the best thing for Skye at the time. Time moved on, and so did Skye. She went on to date, then marry another man. Unfortunately for her, that union was nothing like it should have been and ended in an ugly divorce. Her ex changed after they married and then dragged on with their divorce for too long. Now, Skye is back in New York, working for the Meridian Hotel with Jade Dare Sinclair (Just One Kiss), as an event planner. Their next big event is the Bachelor Charity Auction for Aurora Kingston Dare’s non-profit Future Fast Track for Foster Kids Charity.

While out with her friend and co-worker, Lauren, for a drink, Skye runs into Tripp. She didn’t expect to see him in New York. They haven’t spoken in all the years since their breakup. They spent some time together catching up at the bar, then went back to his place together. You could see the spark had never extinguished between them. Skye, being a little gun-shy on starting (or even re-starting) a relationship, knew that she could trust Tripp with her body. That night together was exactly what she needed.

Now Tripp had to figure out how to keep Skye in his life, knowing that she needed time. When he finds out that she was looking for a donor, so she could get pregnant on her own, Tripp remembers that he made a promise to her all those years ago. If she was single at 30 and wanted a child, he would father it for her. Skye remembered that conversation, too, but after what her ex put her through, she wasn’t looking for a man in her life. She promised to think about it.

On the day of the Bachelor Auction, Tripp asks Skye to bid on him until she wins, he’ll cover the cost. He doesn’t want to be won by anyone but Skye, however he’s smart enough not to say that to her. Tripp wants to show her that he’s changed and that he’s ready for a commitment. Will Skye realize that Tripp would not just make a good donor, but a good partner for her? All she has to do is say yes.

I love second chance romance. It’s always been one of my favorite genres. I really enjoyed this story. And can’t wait to read the next story in this series.

[CarolKat · Rating 5 out of 5]

As this book opens, we meet Skye Abbott as she trains with her brother Spencer. He's been helping her learn kickboxing and self-defense since her divorce and move to New York. They share an apartment for now, but Sky is ready to move forward with her life.

Skye gets a Spencer approved apartment in Brooklyn where she enjoys the peace and quiet. Her job as assistant event planner at the Meridian Hotel in Manhattan is always full of the hustle and bustle of the city. We learn of the reasons behind her divorce as she reflects on how far she's come. She's also thinking about her plans to have a baby using artificial insemination instead of a partner. She really doesn't want another relationship. It's a Saturday and with no plans she decides to make some with her co-worker and friend Lauren. The meet up at The Back Door, a place they enjoy happy hour occasionally after work.

Lauren and Skye enjoy conversation, a couple of drinks and appetizers, before deciding to call it a night.

We meet Tripp Daniels as he and his friend Hudson are having a drink after volunteering at the Children's Community Clinic, giving vaccinations to children of low-income families. He notices a woman at the bar, and she reminds him of Skye. He doesn't think it could be her since the last he heard she was married and living in Boston.at the bar with a friend. Then she turns and it really is her, his friend Hudson teases him about approaching her before he does. Hudson is the one who points out she's not wearing a wedding ring. Hudson also encourages him to go say hello before she leaves. Since Lauren knows Tripp and apparently Skye knows him as well, she leaves the two of them to catch up.

Tripp introduces her to his friend Hudson, who after a bit of ribbing leaves them to get reacquainted.

From this point on everything between these two heats up. Between that first night together, to the Bachelor Auction we see as they get closer.

Even though Skye is determined not to get romantically attached, there is a lot of emotion between them. There's also the fact she wants a no strings attached baby.

I truly loved the way this story plays out. From Tripp's determination to win her, his family's acceptance of her and well just everything that unfolds.

I can't wait to see what's next in this series.

[Jean · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is book three in A Dare Crossover Novel series and it is Skye and Tripp’s story and omg it is definitely a must read. Skye and Tripp have history and they made a pact that if she didn’t have a baby by the time that she was thirty he would be her baby daddy. Skye had just gone through a bitter divorce and trust is now a very big issue but the one thing that she always wanted was a baby and now she is looking into getting her wish only when she bumps into Tripp again after all these years she is determined to keep her heart out of the way because she couldn’t go through the heartbreak ever again especially as she never forgot him or stopped loving him. Tripp had always loved Skye and he had always regretted letting her go all those years ago so when he bumps into her again and his feelings for her are still as strong and he hopes that this is his chance to not only fulfill his promise to her and give her the baby that she always wanted but hopefully also get her to fall in love with him again even though she is so wary and her heart is so guarded but he can’t let her go again and when she tells him about wanting a baby bye herself he offers to help and Skye eventually agrees not knowing how complicated there lives are about to get. When Skye agrees to have a baby with Tripp she puts many conditions in place so that things are kept simple between them but will it work especially with the attraction, chemistry and connection between them is just as strong and intense as it had always been between them. Just when everything is going great between Skye and Tripp danger arrives but will the threat be eliminated in time before it takes away Skye and Tripp’s happiness and future. Wow this book certainly takes you on a rollercoaster ride of emotions and actions and I couldn’t put it down as it completely pulled me in from the first page and kept my attention throughout and I was so hooked that I read it in one sitting until the early hours of the morning and I can’t wait to read the next book in this amazing series.

[Heather · Rating 4 out of 5]

Just a Little Promise is a second chance romance that was an emotional and enjoyable read!

Skye Tremont has moved to New York after getting herself out of an abusive marriage and to distance herself from her ex-husband. She's ready to start over on her own, but she's soured on men after her experience with her ex and her trust in men is at an all time low except for her brother who has been her rock.

When out with one of her girlfriends, Skye runs into Tripp Daniels, her ex-boyfriend, and the one man that she was in love with and thought she could spend the rest of her life with. While she didn't think he felt the same way, he too felt that way, but he chose focusing on med school over a long term commitment. The one thing they did make a pact about was if she was still single when she was thirty and childless, they would have a child together.

Seeing as Skye is ready for a child, she has explored all of her options and is about ready to follow through. Tripp on the other hand, is flooded with all of the emotions he had years before knowing that he still has feelings for Skye, but he also knows that she is not the same person she was when he knew her before. She's more guarded, less confident and not as outgoing.

When Tripp learns what Skye has been through, he is not only determined to show her she can trust him, but he is also fully on board to give her the baby she so desperately wants. Will they be able to get pregnant? And if they do, will they be able to just be co-parents and friends like Skye wants them to be even though the chemistry between them is obvious?

Not only was this book really enjoyable due to the characters of Tripp and Skye, there was also the addition of the element of danger in the plot that added to the intrigue. The book was full of emotion, heat and all the feels, which both Erika Wilde and Carly Phillips are both known for. This book is absolutely worth picking up!

*I voluntarily read an early copy of this title in exchange for an honest review**

[Maddie (Bookaholic_Dreamer) · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75 ⭐️

Just a Little Promise is the third Standalone book from co-authors Carly Phillips and new to me author Erika Wilde's A Dare Crossover series.
It has you following the story of Skye Abbott and Tripp Daniels through the telling of 3rd person.

If you’re looking for a sweet, loving and romantic Second Chance Romance then look no further because co-authors Carly and Erika hit the mark on Skye and Tripp’s story.
In this book you got to see old friends/lovers Skye and Tripp reconnect leading to an unexpected journey to say the least given what puts them back into each other’s lives.
Through that path it had you going through the feels of emotions alongside Skye and Tripp too.

With that said, their journey wasn’t without its bumps in the roads considering the action packed side of things that came from Skye’s past coming back to haunt her, creating some drama whilst building up the suspense due to the mysterious-ness of it.
Eventually leading to some thrills to be had from seeing it all go down.

There was some issues to be had for me with my biggest critique being the climax leading to the ending.
Considering how it went down with the way it played out, to me it felt way too rushed. Especially seeing as how after the dust barely settled, it rushed straight into a HEA, which IMO was way too quick too.
Honestly it would’ve been nice to see it play out a little more before leading to the HEA.
My other critique was the subplot involving Skye’s past, there didn’t see to be much build up given the lack of hardly an in-depth exploration.
Looking back at it, honestly the times it was brought up it felt like it was thrown in at random odd times, lacking any flowing connection to help with the build up.

In the end, Just a Little Promise ended up being a decent read.
And given the quickness of Skye and Tripp's story, which had it feeling more like a novella, it made getting through the book easy enough, alongside the sweetness of Tripp and his love for Skye which had you swooning.



*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review.

[Luisa Rivas · Rating 5 out of 5]

Carly Phillips is my comfort author, I only have to read one of her books to get into instant good mood. Also, this is a second chance romance, which is my favorite, so I was in heaven as I read.

Skye and Tripp used to date several years ago, it was supposed to be casual but she caught feelings. When she asked for commitment, Tripp didn’t have the time nor the headspace due to his studies and residency in pediatric surgery. So, with broken hearts, they broke up and Skye married a year later, with horrible results. Her husband was abusive and she divorced him, not without going through the wringer of stalking, harassment, having to move away. She’s now living in New York City and working at the Meridian hotel, owned by the Dare family.

A chance encounter with Tripp at a night club brings back all the memories and the feelings of “the one who got away”. Tripp is determined to win her back, she’s determined to keep her independence and never put her faith on a man again. Except she wants to have a baby….

I loved both Tripp and Skye, loved how their story developed and love how it was Tripp the relentless one on having a second chance. Since he was the one who broke them up the first time, it was just and fair he had to work hard at winning Skye back. Their chemistry is still off the charts, and it’s one of those moments when you know they never fell out of love, they just moved on out of necessity. Getting back together was fun and steamy, more so when it involved baby-making!

One comment made by Tripp made me laugh and agree whole-heartedly, the Kingstons and Dare families are hard to figure them out since they have so many interconnections. It’s confusing but I love the family feeling and that it feels like you trip over a Dare or a Kingston or a Daniels or a Sterling anywhere you go in New York City. Can’t wait for the next books!

[Ria Alexander · Rating 5 out of 5]

Fun, entertaining read

Carly Phillips and Erika Wilde have delivered another wonderful addition to their Dare Crossover Series with JUST A LITTLE PROMISE. It is an emotional, second chance romance with the perfect amount of fun, heat, suspense, and a touch of danger.

Five years ago, Tripp Daniels broke the heart of the only woman he had ever loved, Skye Abbott, when he chose his career over her. In the meantime he has become a successful doctor while she had endured and escaped an abusive marriage, She fled to New York to begin a new life and fulfill her dream of becoming a mum, even if she has to do it on her own. An unexpected meeting at The Back Door Bar brings the two back together, and it's clear to see that there is some unfinished business between them.

Regretting the decision he made, Tripp will do anything to win back Skye and have her once again in his life, including fulfilling a pact they once made together about having a baby. He's on board with doing anything that Skye wants. After everything Skye has gone through wll she be able to trust the man who broke her heart? She is not the woman Tripp once knew, and he wants to know why. Who or what happened to change her?

JUST A LITTLE PROMISE was such an entertaining read. I loved the connection, banter and heat Tripp and Skye shared. I enjoyed the journey they took to rekindle their friendship and their loved. It was fun catching up with characters from previous books, I just loved Tripp's family, they were so accepting and full of love for each other. Another great story from these talented authors.

Next up is Just A Little Chase, which will feature Lauren Connelly, Skye's best friend, and Chase Gossard.

Read and Reviewed for Reading Is Our Satisfaction.

✨✨✨✨✨ FIVE ENTERTAINING STARS ✨✨✨✨✨

[Tracy Roberts · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is an absolutely must read! I love 2nd chance romances especially when the characters are phenomenal as in this book.
Skye is somewhat recently divorced. After leaving her ex-husband and moving in with her parents for over a year, she then moved in with her brother. She has been living there with her brother for 4 months now and is finally ready to move into her own place.
Now divorced and having her own place, Skye is ready to make her dream of having a baby come true. All her life all she had ever wanted was to have a baby and a family. She isn’t ready to be in a relationship after the horrible marriage she had, but nowhere does it say you have to be in a relationship to have a child. Skye is ready to start looking into artificial insemination from the sperm bank for a possible baby daddy.
Little did Skye know that while considering having her dream child, that she would run into the one man she has always loved, Tripp Daniels. Now after spending the night getting reacquainted with her old lover, Skye remembers the pact the two of them made years ago. If Skye was not married and did not have a child by the age of 30, Tripp would be her baby daddy.
Tripp can’t believe he is looking at the one woman he let get away. The one woman he has never been able to stop thinking about. After a hot sexy night together and some serious conversations later in which Tripp learns about Skye’s idea of having the baby she’s always wanted, Tripp thinks this might be his one chance to become close with Skye again and win her back. Now he just has to convince Skye to go along with the plan and let him father her baby.
This story was so amazing. Love every second of it. Can’t wait to read more about Skye and Tripp in future books.