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The Seven #4
Just This Once
The days are numbered for Hope Langston.
She’s suffering from liver failure and isn’t sure if she’ll make it to a transplant in time or not. So she creates a bucket list of experiences she wants to try before it’s too late. Number four on her list is Parker Ohrley, one of her brother’s best friends.
Prickly, rude, and sarcastic, this jerk is all things brooding and tormented. But Hope’s curious. She wants to sample him like nothing else.
In the spirit of carpe diem, she says screw it, and she shoots her shot. Who cares if she gets a humiliating rejection, right? She won’t have to live with the embarrassment for long.
Except Parker might not say no.
And that’s when the real trouble begins.
Let the mess of secrets, lies, and heartbreak commence.
She’s suffering from liver failure and isn’t sure if she’ll make it to a transplant in time or not. So she creates a bucket list of experiences she wants to try before it’s too late. Number four on her list is Parker Ohrley, one of her brother’s best friends.
Prickly, rude, and sarcastic, this jerk is all things brooding and tormented. But Hope’s curious. She wants to sample him like nothing else.
In the spirit of carpe diem, she says screw it, and she shoots her shot. Who cares if she gets a humiliating rejection, right? She won’t have to live with the embarrassment for long.
Except Parker might not say no.
And that’s when the real trouble begins.
Let the mess of secrets, lies, and heartbreak commence.
- GenresRomance
474 pages, Kindle Edition
First published December 13, 2024
10 people are currently reading
57 people want to read
About the author
Linda Kage
51 books5,537 followersLinda writes romance fiction from YA to adult, contemporary to fantasy.
Published since 2010, she first went through a 2-year writing correspondence class in children’s literature from The Institute of Children’s Literature, then graduated with a Bachelor's in Arts-English with an emphasis in creative fiction writing from Pittsburg State University.
She currently lives with her husband, two daughters, a cat named Holly, and nine cuckoo clocks in southeast Kansas.
She started out reading with the Baby-Sitters Club, then moved to Sandra Brown, Linda Howard, Julie Garwood, and LaVyrle Spencer in high school. Now, she's all over the place with her romance reading tastes.
A few of her favorite things have been:
Stranger Things, Supernatural, Cheers, Teen Wolf, Umbrella Academy, Outlander, Yellowstone, Grey's Anatomy, Game of Thrones, The Walking Dead, Shawshank Redemption, Dirty Dancing, Harry Potter, Tangled, A Walk to Remember, Dr. Pepper, Roast Beef with mashed potatoes and onion rings, the poem "Equipment" by Edgar A. Guest, and To Kill a Mockingbird.
Published since 2010, she first went through a 2-year writing correspondence class in children’s literature from The Institute of Children’s Literature, then graduated with a Bachelor's in Arts-English with an emphasis in creative fiction writing from Pittsburg State University.
She currently lives with her husband, two daughters, a cat named Holly, and nine cuckoo clocks in southeast Kansas.
She started out reading with the Baby-Sitters Club, then moved to Sandra Brown, Linda Howard, Julie Garwood, and LaVyrle Spencer in high school. Now, she's all over the place with her romance reading tastes.
A few of her favorite things have been:
Stranger Things, Supernatural, Cheers, Teen Wolf, Umbrella Academy, Outlander, Yellowstone, Grey's Anatomy, Game of Thrones, The Walking Dead, Shawshank Redemption, Dirty Dancing, Harry Potter, Tangled, A Walk to Remember, Dr. Pepper, Roast Beef with mashed potatoes and onion rings, the poem "Equipment" by Edgar A. Guest, and To Kill a Mockingbird.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 30 reviews
March 21, 2025
4.5 stars
*cues Beautiful Things by Benson Boone*
I've read one book by Linda Kage before in 2018. I promised myself that I needed to read more from her. Fast forward 7 years later, this is my next book from her.
And what a perfect read this was.
Parker is the best part of this book. Hope is a fantastic FMC but man, I love meself some repressed, grumpy ML that turned into a bubbling mess at the possibility of losing his love. Call me sadistic but that's why I picked up books like this. I need vulnerability in my fictional men, guys! You can't this thing out there.
That scene where they were dancing in the rain? OMG. It was so beautiful, it forced a fucking tear out of my heart. There were few scenes in fact in here that hit me so hard with its plain simplicity and beauty, that I went ahead and fell in love with the characters. Fell in love with Parker.
“It happened in an instant.” I snapped my fingers. “I fell. It was the scariest, most amazing, thrilling thing to ever happen to me. Just like that, he became everything. I would’ve done anything for him.”
What I do not care though, probably the unpopular opinion here, is the paranormal aspect of this book. I don't think it serves any point (although the previous 3 books are about the paranormal aspects), it just didn't fit in this one. Could the author insert the paranormal stuff differently to make the story work? Maybe. I guess, in a book about a dying girl, the whole ghosts stuff kinda distracts the original plot.
With that said though, this was almost perfect for me.
*cues Beautiful Things by Benson Boone*
I've read one book by Linda Kage before in 2018. I promised myself that I needed to read more from her. Fast forward 7 years later, this is my next book from her.
And what a perfect read this was.
Parker is the best part of this book. Hope is a fantastic FMC but man, I love meself some repressed, grumpy ML that turned into a bubbling mess at the possibility of losing his love. Call me sadistic but that's why I picked up books like this. I need vulnerability in my fictional men, guys! You can't this thing out there.
That scene where they were dancing in the rain? OMG. It was so beautiful, it forced a fucking tear out of my heart. There were few scenes in fact in here that hit me so hard with its plain simplicity and beauty, that I went ahead and fell in love with the characters. Fell in love with Parker.
“It happened in an instant.” I snapped my fingers. “I fell. It was the scariest, most amazing, thrilling thing to ever happen to me. Just like that, he became everything. I would’ve done anything for him.”
What I do not care though, probably the unpopular opinion here, is the paranormal aspect of this book. I don't think it serves any point (although the previous 3 books are about the paranormal aspects), it just didn't fit in this one. Could the author insert the paranormal stuff differently to make the story work? Maybe. I guess, in a book about a dying girl, the whole ghosts stuff kinda distracts the original plot.
With that said though, this was almost perfect for me.
December 21, 2024
3.5⭐️
Hope necesita un trasplante de hígado urgente y, dado que sabe que es poco probable encontrar un donante, decide pasar sus últimos días con su hermano. Además de estar con sus seres queridos, tiene una lista de cosas por hacer, y para cumplirla le pide ayuda a Parker, un amigo de su hermano con quien nunca se ha llevado bien, pero con quien se siente atraída.
Había dicho que no iba a leer nada sobre universitarios, pero es un libro de Linda y no pude resistirme.
Sentí que los temas tratados, como el abandono y el alcoholismo, no fueron explorados a fondo, lo cual es una lástima porque el libro tenía muy buenos elementos. Por otra parte, fue interesante la inclusión de lo sobrenatural.
Tengo mucha curiosidad por la historia de Nova y Thane. Espero que, si la teoría de Hope es cierta, Nova haya buscado ayuda psicológica y que, aunque duela estar lejos de Thane, intente seguir adelante.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Hope necesita un trasplante de hígado urgente y, dado que sabe que es poco probable encontrar un donante, decide pasar sus últimos días con su hermano. Además de estar con sus seres queridos, tiene una lista de cosas por hacer, y para cumplirla le pide ayuda a Parker, un amigo de su hermano con quien nunca se ha llevado bien, pero con quien se siente atraída.
Había dicho que no iba a leer nada sobre universitarios, pero es un libro de Linda y no pude resistirme.
Sentí que los temas tratados, como el abandono y el alcoholismo, no fueron explorados a fondo, lo cual es una lástima porque el libro tenía muy buenos elementos. Por otra parte, fue interesante la inclusión de lo sobrenatural.
Tengo mucha curiosidad por la historia de Nova y Thane. Espero que, si la teoría de Hope es cierta, Nova haya buscado ayuda psicológica y que, aunque duela estar lejos de Thane, intente seguir adelante.
Thanks to NetGalley, the publisher and the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review.
December 24, 2024
I received an ARC for free and this is my honest review.
6⭐ 1.75🌶 5❤ I also bought the book as soon as I could, I absolutely loved this book. The Seven series definitely holds a special place in my heart. All of these characters are just so lovable and broken. So far no one was more broken then Parker was in my opinion. Through the hole series his has been the story I've been looking forward to the most, and it did not disappoint at all.
In Just This Once we meet Hope for the first time and she is Alec's half sister and the one to nick name the seven after the Seven Dwarfs, so I was especially excited to meet her and get to know her as well. Her and Parker at first didn't make sense to me because I thought maybe he was going to get a headstrong but very sweet girl to get him out of his Grumpy ways. Hope is headstrong and very snarky and just the absolute best person for him. She doesn't take and of his shit and pushes all of his buttons. Best of all she loves all of him, even his Grumpy ways.
These two characters together is just the perfect combination of characters I have seen in a romance in a while. This is not you typical grumpy sunshine trope this is Grumpy snarky and it just works for some reason. Their relationship even starting with lies to the Seven, is just so pure and raw. Even after only a short time together they developed such a strong connection to each other while working through the items in Hope's bucket list.
I feel like the similar childhood trauma they share makes it so they can understand each other better then anyone else in the world. It is something that only someone who has gone through that same thing can really understand.
As always Linda Kage's writing is just incredible. She has this way of making me just feel everything that is happening. I can feel their guilt over the past. I can feel their longing and want. I could feel them falling in love by the pool. I could feel Parker's devastation towards the end of the book.
I know whenever I pick up a Linda Kage book I know I'm just going to sob, whether it be from devastating pain or utter happiness there are always tears and I love it. She just packs so much emotion and angst into her books and I love it.
As always with the Seven series check triggers, there is always some talk of death in all the books of the series. Mostly talk of close friends or family dying. If that is triggering to you just be aware and take care of yourself.
I highly recommend this series, the whole series. Yes you can read each book as a stand alone but the series as a whole is just a completely different experience. I love all of these books and I will never stop recommending them to everyone.
6⭐ 1.75🌶 5❤ I also bought the book as soon as I could, I absolutely loved this book. The Seven series definitely holds a special place in my heart. All of these characters are just so lovable and broken. So far no one was more broken then Parker was in my opinion. Through the hole series his has been the story I've been looking forward to the most, and it did not disappoint at all.
In Just This Once we meet Hope for the first time and she is Alec's half sister and the one to nick name the seven after the Seven Dwarfs, so I was especially excited to meet her and get to know her as well. Her and Parker at first didn't make sense to me because I thought maybe he was going to get a headstrong but very sweet girl to get him out of his Grumpy ways. Hope is headstrong and very snarky and just the absolute best person for him. She doesn't take and of his shit and pushes all of his buttons. Best of all she loves all of him, even his Grumpy ways.
These two characters together is just the perfect combination of characters I have seen in a romance in a while. This is not you typical grumpy sunshine trope this is Grumpy snarky and it just works for some reason. Their relationship even starting with lies to the Seven, is just so pure and raw. Even after only a short time together they developed such a strong connection to each other while working through the items in Hope's bucket list.
I feel like the similar childhood trauma they share makes it so they can understand each other better then anyone else in the world. It is something that only someone who has gone through that same thing can really understand.
As always Linda Kage's writing is just incredible. She has this way of making me just feel everything that is happening. I can feel their guilt over the past. I can feel their longing and want. I could feel them falling in love by the pool. I could feel Parker's devastation towards the end of the book.
I know whenever I pick up a Linda Kage book I know I'm just going to sob, whether it be from devastating pain or utter happiness there are always tears and I love it. She just packs so much emotion and angst into her books and I love it.
As always with the Seven series check triggers, there is always some talk of death in all the books of the series. Mostly talk of close friends or family dying. If that is triggering to you just be aware and take care of yourself.
I highly recommend this series, the whole series. Yes you can read each book as a stand alone but the series as a whole is just a completely different experience. I love all of these books and I will never stop recommending them to everyone.
December 27, 2024
I am loving this series. The fact that it’s so different to other contemporary romances makes it even better. Admittedly the supernatural element isn’t as highlighted with Parker and Hope but it was still there. Hope is an amazing FMC, and able to match wits with Parker, and come out ahead. The way Parker moaned about Hope at the beginning and sent out all his angry energy towards her and then as the story unfolds we get all these little snippets of how impactful she is on his life. The guy didn’t even ask one time for his super expensive car back he lent her, yet nobody else had been allowed to drive it. I see you Parker, and I approve.
As with all the books in the series this story deals heavily with grief and death. Tears were shed, then more tears. I don’t normally like books that devastate me but I can forgive it here. They’re so well written and I want more and I need to know how the story will resolve itself.
I know Keene’s book is next but since Vacancy I have been desperate for Thane and Nova’s story. I feel that book may become my whole personality.
As with all the books in the series this story deals heavily with grief and death. Tears were shed, then more tears. I don’t normally like books that devastate me but I can forgive it here. They’re so well written and I want more and I need to know how the story will resolve itself.
I know Keene’s book is next but since Vacancy I have been desperate for Thane and Nova’s story. I feel that book may become my whole personality.
December 31, 2024
Emotional rollercoasters have nothing on the unexpected ride I experienced.
Got this from Netgalley not realizing it was part of a series and I have EVERY intention and going back to the beginning.
Not the most fine tuned writing, but good character development and arcs. The pain bleeds off the page.
I get annoyed with Hope at times but then remember that she's only 20.
Parker is the perfect broken bad boy.
The others are a mix that as important as they are to each other, I think takes a bit away from the overall development of Hope and Parker. I needed more interaction between those two than other bits that didn't really move the plot forward in steps but a boring nudge that left me skimming bits.
I was going to give this 3 ⭐ but the last quarter dug deep and earned the 4.
Got this from Netgalley not realizing it was part of a series and I have EVERY intention and going back to the beginning.
Not the most fine tuned writing, but good character development and arcs. The pain bleeds off the page.
I get annoyed with Hope at times but then remember that she's only 20.
Parker is the perfect broken bad boy.
The others are a mix that as important as they are to each other, I think takes a bit away from the overall development of Hope and Parker. I needed more interaction between those two than other bits that didn't really move the plot forward in steps but a boring nudge that left me skimming bits.
I was going to give this 3 ⭐ but the last quarter dug deep and earned the 4.
January 12, 2025
I told y’all that Parker was my man!!! Usually when someone is reserved, prickly/grumpy, and a substance abuser, its BECAUSE OF SOMETHING. And oh boy, did this man have a lot on his mind. From his guilt over his parents’ deaths still many years later, to the guilt over Raina’s almost death in the last book, to the girls he continued to check up on from the center where sexual abuse was prevalent, this man had his mind going so many different ways at any one time. HOWEVER, what he didn’t want us to see (and we ultimately did), was how incredibly sweet and thoughtful he was. His friend needed or wanted literally anything under the sun? He would go procure it under a different name so they had no idea why it was falling into their lap. His friend’s sister (who he couldn’t stand) got harassed by some man on a flight? He bought the company he worked for and fired him. Not to mention, he did so well with Hope when her condition would act up. There were countless times he had to think quickly and help her out of a hairy situation, and each time I was just in awe of him.
And Hope…aka Trouble 😊 I loved how she had been around this group of men since they were all kids at the grief center. I loved her tie in to them from a very young age and how much this tiny woman scared all of these “big, strong men”. She is the prankster of the group for sure, at least to everyone but her brother Alec. Alec is her “person” as she explains countless times. Speaking of which, I completely adored their relationship. This brother/sister duo may not have known each other for the first decade of their lives, but you would never know with how they are basically each others best friends. Alec is such a passive and sweet guy helping Hope every opportunity he can, and Hope is there to have his back and tackle his enemies before they can even strike. They are one of the best brother/sister duos I’ve ever read, if not the best. I loved them both separately, but I loved their sibling bond so much.
I loved watching these two be vulnerable with each other. There were so many times I almost lost it with tears while reading this because of their connection and vulnerability. I think Parker singing Benson Boone's "Beautiful Things" to Hope while they slow danced will emotionally stay with me for a very long time.
Since Alec was brought up, I can’t NOT mention his fat crush on the new roommate…Xander Union…Foster’s cousin. Alec is so nervous and cute around her, also very considerate of her feelings and the hard time she’s going through when she first moves in. I can’t believe Linda is going to make us wait until the bloody end for their book!!! Haha jk, they’re all amazing.
I loved how much Waverly we got!! Waverly has just kinda been in the background in this series so far, often sparring with Keene (dang kids lol), but she hasn’t taken a very big role yet. I loved seeing her connection to Hope (and Nova…), watching her develop an almost reluctant friendship with Parker, and her run away from Keene (for real, what the hell happened there?!?!?!). I seriously cannot wait for the next book which she will be the FMC in 😊
This felt the least “paranormal” of the group thus far, simply because this was the first book in the series where one of the MC didn’t have a paranormal ability. THIS IS NOT A CRITICISM AT ALL, I liked that about this book. There were still definitely aspects between the amulet that turned different colors as someone was getting closer to death, Parker introducing Hope to the ghost in the school library, and the continued Raina sleep guidance to the “other side”, so don’t worry, they’re there 😊
Thank you to Linda Kage for the opportunity to read this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
And Hope…aka Trouble 😊 I loved how she had been around this group of men since they were all kids at the grief center. I loved her tie in to them from a very young age and how much this tiny woman scared all of these “big, strong men”. She is the prankster of the group for sure, at least to everyone but her brother Alec. Alec is her “person” as she explains countless times. Speaking of which, I completely adored their relationship. This brother/sister duo may not have known each other for the first decade of their lives, but you would never know with how they are basically each others best friends. Alec is such a passive and sweet guy helping Hope every opportunity he can, and Hope is there to have his back and tackle his enemies before they can even strike. They are one of the best brother/sister duos I’ve ever read, if not the best. I loved them both separately, but I loved their sibling bond so much.
I loved watching these two be vulnerable with each other. There were so many times I almost lost it with tears while reading this because of their connection and vulnerability. I think Parker singing Benson Boone's "Beautiful Things" to Hope while they slow danced will emotionally stay with me for a very long time.
Since Alec was brought up, I can’t NOT mention his fat crush on the new roommate…Xander Union…Foster’s cousin. Alec is so nervous and cute around her, also very considerate of her feelings and the hard time she’s going through when she first moves in. I can’t believe Linda is going to make us wait until the bloody end for their book!!! Haha jk, they’re all amazing.
I loved how much Waverly we got!! Waverly has just kinda been in the background in this series so far, often sparring with Keene (dang kids lol), but she hasn’t taken a very big role yet. I loved seeing her connection to Hope (and Nova…), watching her develop an almost reluctant friendship with Parker, and her run away from Keene (for real, what the hell happened there?!?!?!). I seriously cannot wait for the next book which she will be the FMC in 😊
This felt the least “paranormal” of the group thus far, simply because this was the first book in the series where one of the MC didn’t have a paranormal ability. THIS IS NOT A CRITICISM AT ALL, I liked that about this book. There were still definitely aspects between the amulet that turned different colors as someone was getting closer to death, Parker introducing Hope to the ghost in the school library, and the continued Raina sleep guidance to the “other side”, so don’t worry, they’re there 😊
Thank you to Linda Kage for the opportunity to read this book. The thoughts and opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
January 2, 2025
Let me start off by praising Lind Kage profusely on all her writing, and I mean all her writing. I have not read a single one of her books I didn’t like. Thank you, Linda Kage, for the hours of pleasure, the tears of joy and heartbreak, the stomach aches from the laughter, and the place in my heart for each one of your couples. Thank you. If this is the first Linda Kage book you read, you will thank me for the recommendation, I enjoyed this book as much as all the others of her books.
This is book four of the seven series. I love the seven, even though this book was about my least favorite of the seven, Parker, I still could not stop reading once I started. Probably because I fell in love with Hope and her quirky ways. I appreciated Hopes outlook on life, her living for the people she loves, how she gives all the guys snow white and the seven dwarfs nicknames, I love it all so much. I Liked the transformation in the characters and their relationship, how parker is actually a great guy behind the scenes. How he is actually the puppet master for his circle of found family. How hope is a match maker in her own right and really an alpha of alphas, if you don’t know, you will after you read this book. These two are perfect for one another, there is and should be only hope for only parker, in my opinion. Plus, I love how we still find out more about how the other seven men and their ladies are doing which as well is the perfect continuation of the whole series.
I liked the plot of this story, it being an enemy to lovers, last dying wish story. How this book followed the supernatural in the real world vibe. I like the idea of being able to see ghosts in real life situations or going to sleep and seeing your lost loved ones. I can’t wait for the rest of the series either because Linda Kage really knows how to plant those lead up easter eggs throughout her book and this one is no different It just makes me anticipate thane, Keene and alecs stories even more. No spoilers I promise but we do get to really start guessing what comes next for our favorite ghost guys.
The last reason I fully loved this book was the smexiness, whenever I read a Linda Kage book I always know the spice will be top tier for sure and she did not disappoint with this one, let me just say hot tub smex in now on my bucket list to try. The spice is also not forced or out of context either, which is awesome and keeps the reader invested in the relationship even more. I loved this book I support this book and recommend it to any and all. Please join me in my love affair with Linda Kage books, I bet there is plenty of space in this uber king sized bed for all.
This is book four of the seven series. I love the seven, even though this book was about my least favorite of the seven, Parker, I still could not stop reading once I started. Probably because I fell in love with Hope and her quirky ways. I appreciated Hopes outlook on life, her living for the people she loves, how she gives all the guys snow white and the seven dwarfs nicknames, I love it all so much. I Liked the transformation in the characters and their relationship, how parker is actually a great guy behind the scenes. How he is actually the puppet master for his circle of found family. How hope is a match maker in her own right and really an alpha of alphas, if you don’t know, you will after you read this book. These two are perfect for one another, there is and should be only hope for only parker, in my opinion. Plus, I love how we still find out more about how the other seven men and their ladies are doing which as well is the perfect continuation of the whole series.
I liked the plot of this story, it being an enemy to lovers, last dying wish story. How this book followed the supernatural in the real world vibe. I like the idea of being able to see ghosts in real life situations or going to sleep and seeing your lost loved ones. I can’t wait for the rest of the series either because Linda Kage really knows how to plant those lead up easter eggs throughout her book and this one is no different It just makes me anticipate thane, Keene and alecs stories even more. No spoilers I promise but we do get to really start guessing what comes next for our favorite ghost guys.
The last reason I fully loved this book was the smexiness, whenever I read a Linda Kage book I always know the spice will be top tier for sure and she did not disappoint with this one, let me just say hot tub smex in now on my bucket list to try. The spice is also not forced or out of context either, which is awesome and keeps the reader invested in the relationship even more. I loved this book I support this book and recommend it to any and all. Please join me in my love affair with Linda Kage books, I bet there is plenty of space in this uber king sized bed for all.
December 17, 2024
I absolutely devoured this book – it was that good! As always, I love anything Linda writes, and this book was no exception. To be honest, at first, I wasn’t sure how I felt about Hope in the opening chapter. She came across as pretty harsh toward Alec. But fast forward to the present, and I absolutely adore how Hope becomes Alec’s personal cheerleader. She’s such an incredible big sister, and their sibling dynamic is heartwarming. I also loved how Hope playfully terrorizes the rest of the Seven, especially how she gave them nicknames based on the Seven Dwarfs. And each nickname fits them perfectly!
At first, I didn’t think Parker and Hope were going to be compatible as a couple, since Parker is snarky, sarcastic, and downright grumpy at times, while Hope is basically his complete opposite. But that’s where they actually work together. Hope isn’t deterred by Parker’s personality and isn’t afraid to give it right back to him every time.
Like the other books in the series, death is a recurring theme, and the final chapters had me feeling incredibly emotional, leaving me in tears. And is it wrong that I love it when the heroine is severely hurt or on the brink of death, and the hero is powerless to save her? The emotional turmoil the hero goes through is always gut-wrenching—he becomes so overwhelmed, he almost goes feral, unable to function. I live for those intense, raw moments, and Parker absolutely fits the bill. His despair over Hope was heartbreaking.
Waverly was introduced in the previous books, and that ending... wow, what a cliffhanger! I absolutely need to know what Waverly did to Keene—I can't wait to discover their story! Also, Xander has made her entrance, and I can already tell her journey will be captivating—especially paired with Alec! I’m eager to see how their relationship develops.
At first, I didn’t think Parker and Hope were going to be compatible as a couple, since Parker is snarky, sarcastic, and downright grumpy at times, while Hope is basically his complete opposite. But that’s where they actually work together. Hope isn’t deterred by Parker’s personality and isn’t afraid to give it right back to him every time.
Like the other books in the series, death is a recurring theme, and the final chapters had me feeling incredibly emotional, leaving me in tears. And is it wrong that I love it when the heroine is severely hurt or on the brink of death, and the hero is powerless to save her? The emotional turmoil the hero goes through is always gut-wrenching—he becomes so overwhelmed, he almost goes feral, unable to function. I live for those intense, raw moments, and Parker absolutely fits the bill. His despair over Hope was heartbreaking.
Waverly was introduced in the previous books, and that ending... wow, what a cliffhanger! I absolutely need to know what Waverly did to Keene—I can't wait to discover their story! Also, Xander has made her entrance, and I can already tell her journey will be captivating—especially paired with Alec! I’m eager to see how their relationship develops.
January 7, 2025
JUST THIS ONCE is the fourth book in The Seven series, and I highly recommend you read them in order to get the fullest out of them. This was Parker and Hope's story.
Parker is the ultimate bad boy. He doesn't think twice about kicking someone out of their job because they were bad-mannered. If you're in his circle, you're in and that's that. Hope is Alec's half-sister. They had a tumultuous time of it when they were younger but have developed an amazing bond. Now, when Hope has lost all hope, it is Alec and the Seven she turns to.
Oh, man. I couldn't wait for Parker's story and it was so good! I love how he works, thinks, and feels, and the feelings between these two literally jump off the page. This isn't a Grumpy/Sunshine book, instead it's Grumpy/Attitude and I am here for it. These two worked so well together, in big and little ways. I could completely understand why neither of them wanted the others to know about it, even if it did go against everything they are.
Death is a topic in most of these books, none more so than this one, so be warned if that's a trigger. And yes, it had me in tears. The pain felt by everyone was tangible and I loved it.
Keene's is the next book and I'm hoping he is paired with Waverley after that outstanding ending. I also want Thane and Nova's, as well as Xander and Alec's. At least, that's how it's working in my mind.
This series is simply outstanding and I HIGHLY RECOMMEND every single one of them.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jan 7, 2025
Parker is the ultimate bad boy. He doesn't think twice about kicking someone out of their job because they were bad-mannered. If you're in his circle, you're in and that's that. Hope is Alec's half-sister. They had a tumultuous time of it when they were younger but have developed an amazing bond. Now, when Hope has lost all hope, it is Alec and the Seven she turns to.
Oh, man. I couldn't wait for Parker's story and it was so good! I love how he works, thinks, and feels, and the feelings between these two literally jump off the page. This isn't a Grumpy/Sunshine book, instead it's Grumpy/Attitude and I am here for it. These two worked so well together, in big and little ways. I could completely understand why neither of them wanted the others to know about it, even if it did go against everything they are.
Death is a topic in most of these books, none more so than this one, so be warned if that's a trigger. And yes, it had me in tears. The pain felt by everyone was tangible and I loved it.
Keene's is the next book and I'm hoping he is paired with Waverley after that outstanding ending. I also want Thane and Nova's, as well as Xander and Alec's. At least, that's how it's working in my mind.
This series is simply outstanding and I HIGHLY RECOMMEND every single one of them.
** same worded review will appear elsewhere **
* A copy of this book was provided to me with no requirements for a review. I voluntarily read this book; the comments here are my honest opinion. *
Merissa
Archaeolibrarian - I Dig Good Books!
Jan 7, 2025
December 17, 2024
Overall, I enjoyed this read, even though there were some unexpected elements that led me to believe I wouldn’t. However, Linda Kage is a super talented writer who always wrings my emotions out of me, so this ended up being a really enjoyable book for me!
There were a few things that didn’t quite work for me:
I hadn’t read any of the previous books in this series and hadn’t anticipated that being a problem. Mostly, it wasn’t — in the sense that I didn’t feel like I needed to read past stories to understand this one. But, there were a ton of characters that were alternated between calling them by their first names, last names, dwarf names, or (presumably) nicknames from previous installments (eg, Stalker). I rarely knew who they were talking about outside of Hope and Parker. Not sure if I would have had as much trouble if I had gotten familiar with characters in previous books since I had gotten better at mentally keeping Keene, Alec, and Thane straight by the end of the book. I don’t even remember the rest of their names.
I also felt the side characters were integrated more heavily in this book than I typically see, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing — it’s just I mostly didn’t know who they were talking about, so the stories didn’t have as much of an impact on me as they could have.
Beyond that, my biggest issue was this unexpected paranormal aspect. I did not know there were going to be ghosts and dreamwalking and I didn’t go into this book in the headspace to just go with it, so I was thrown off every time it came up, especially since everyone was so casual about it.
There were a few things that didn’t quite work for me:
I hadn’t read any of the previous books in this series and hadn’t anticipated that being a problem. Mostly, it wasn’t — in the sense that I didn’t feel like I needed to read past stories to understand this one. But, there were a ton of characters that were alternated between calling them by their first names, last names, dwarf names, or (presumably) nicknames from previous installments (eg, Stalker). I rarely knew who they were talking about outside of Hope and Parker. Not sure if I would have had as much trouble if I had gotten familiar with characters in previous books since I had gotten better at mentally keeping Keene, Alec, and Thane straight by the end of the book. I don’t even remember the rest of their names.
I also felt the side characters were integrated more heavily in this book than I typically see, which isn’t necessarily a bad thing — it’s just I mostly didn’t know who they were talking about, so the stories didn’t have as much of an impact on me as they could have.
Beyond that, my biggest issue was this unexpected paranormal aspect. I did not know there were going to be ghosts and dreamwalking and I didn’t go into this book in the headspace to just go with it, so I was thrown off every time it came up, especially since everyone was so casual about it.
July 29, 2025
This book was my first reading in a long time and honestly it was everything I expected and needed. Linda Kage never lets me down. The connection between Hope and Parker feels natural, inevitable, like it's always been there, waiting for its moment, and... it was so good.
Parker has always been the most distant and angry member of the group but here he finally reveals himself and i didn't expect him to be so ...good people. What surprised me most was how vulnerable we see him. You'd think that because of his cold and reserved demeanor it would be difficult to see him open up but with Hope he lets his guard down and that gives his character a depth we haven't seen before. It's impossible not to love him.
One of my favorite things of this series is how it handles vulnerability. While there's drama, especially when the situation reaches its most critical point, what truly stands out is the characters' bonds, the sense of family, home, among them. That connection between everyone that supports each other despite their wounds, is what makes this series feel so special and always makes me cry.
Hope is hilarious. I loved her. The fact that she's known the seven since they were kids and can make them uncomfortable, challenge them, and make them tremble as soon as she walks back through the door was so funny. Her presence shakes everything up and she does it in a very charming way. Her relationship with Alec is also precious.
Unlike the other books, this novel has fewer paranormal elements, but i think there was enough drama with Hope's illness and keeping it secret from Alec. I really enjoyed this book and i can't wait to keep reading the rest of the series.
Parker has always been the most distant and angry member of the group but here he finally reveals himself and i didn't expect him to be so ...good people. What surprised me most was how vulnerable we see him. You'd think that because of his cold and reserved demeanor it would be difficult to see him open up but with Hope he lets his guard down and that gives his character a depth we haven't seen before. It's impossible not to love him.
One of my favorite things of this series is how it handles vulnerability. While there's drama, especially when the situation reaches its most critical point, what truly stands out is the characters' bonds, the sense of family, home, among them. That connection between everyone that supports each other despite their wounds, is what makes this series feel so special and always makes me cry.
Hope is hilarious. I loved her. The fact that she's known the seven since they were kids and can make them uncomfortable, challenge them, and make them tremble as soon as she walks back through the door was so funny. Her presence shakes everything up and she does it in a very charming way. Her relationship with Alec is also precious.
Unlike the other books, this novel has fewer paranormal elements, but i think there was enough drama with Hope's illness and keeping it secret from Alec. I really enjoyed this book and i can't wait to keep reading the rest of the series.
January 14, 2025
Title: Poignant, passionate tragic love story with an HEA
This author can make even a story headed toward tragedy a page-turner with Hope. Pun intended. I thoroughly enjoyed every laugh I had, bout of crying I did and every poignant moment that made me say ahhh. If you like well-written romances with just the right amount of steam and passion, you must read this book! This entire series of stand-alone books is phenomenal.
We are back with The Seven who comprise seven college students who met during their grieving process at a center. They have maintained their close friendship for at least a decade. Among them was one not-so-much-wanted girl, Hope whose half-brother was one of The Seven, Alec. She has returned to be with Alec during her last days with a bucket list to complete but she does not want anybody to know she is dying. Number four on her list is to have something she has never had during intimacy, but her choice candidate is the snarky, grumpy Parker. Can she get him to submit to her request? Can he give her what she wants? Then what? Oh. My. Word. this book will haunt me; I already feel it. With just a hint of paranormal events among The Seven, we get a unique story. I am already looking forward to the next one. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through BookSirens.
This author can make even a story headed toward tragedy a page-turner with Hope. Pun intended. I thoroughly enjoyed every laugh I had, bout of crying I did and every poignant moment that made me say ahhh. If you like well-written romances with just the right amount of steam and passion, you must read this book! This entire series of stand-alone books is phenomenal.
We are back with The Seven who comprise seven college students who met during their grieving process at a center. They have maintained their close friendship for at least a decade. Among them was one not-so-much-wanted girl, Hope whose half-brother was one of The Seven, Alec. She has returned to be with Alec during her last days with a bucket list to complete but she does not want anybody to know she is dying. Number four on her list is to have something she has never had during intimacy, but her choice candidate is the snarky, grumpy Parker. Can she get him to submit to her request? Can he give her what she wants? Then what? Oh. My. Word. this book will haunt me; I already feel it. With just a hint of paranormal events among The Seven, we get a unique story. I am already looking forward to the next one. I volunteered to review an ARC of this book through BookSirens.
December 23, 2024
After reading — and loving — the previous books in “The Seven” series, I was very excited to see “Grumpy” Parker finally meet his match. Who could possibly put up with his stubbornness and surliness? I am happy to report that the heroine, Hope Langston, was just as amazing as I hoped (pun certainly intended), and her tenacious yet protective personality was perfectly suited for our prickly Parker, who struggled to resist her at every turn.
I am so glad that there are still three books left to be published in the series, because I never want to leave this world that Linda Kage has created. While I am eager for Keene’s story, which is supposed to be up next, I must admit that I simply can’t wait for Alec’s book, because I think he is the most adorable, pure, and sweet male character I’ve read about in years, and the way he already cares about Xander is undeniably heartwarming. Friends to lovers has always been my favorite relationship trope, so I just know that Alec’s book will be incredible. I am keeping my fingers crossed that his story will be next after Keene’s, but in the meantime, I will gladly give five stars for “Just This Once,” which is easily one of my favorite books this year.
I am so glad that there are still three books left to be published in the series, because I never want to leave this world that Linda Kage has created. While I am eager for Keene’s story, which is supposed to be up next, I must admit that I simply can’t wait for Alec’s book, because I think he is the most adorable, pure, and sweet male character I’ve read about in years, and the way he already cares about Xander is undeniably heartwarming. Friends to lovers has always been my favorite relationship trope, so I just know that Alec’s book will be incredible. I am keeping my fingers crossed that his story will be next after Keene’s, but in the meantime, I will gladly give five stars for “Just This Once,” which is easily one of my favorite books this year.
December 17, 2024
Omg! I am obsessed with this series! This book by far is my favorite. Parker and Hope were amazing! In the beginning I was not expecting this book to be so good but I was definitely surprised and shocked and amazed at every turn. Hope is dying but she’s kept it a secret from her half brother Alec, not wanting to bring him any pain. She makes a bucket list and puts Parker as number four on the list. Parker really surprised me! I was almost brought to tears, how Parker was going to do anything to make sure his trouble didn’t die on him. He was such a sweet heart and he hid all of that sweetness under being a grump. Hope was so funny and I loved her energy, she kept Parker and all the guys on their toes and I absolutely adored her for it. I loved how Parker was so protective over Hope, despite being a jerk to her in the beginning. I enjoyed watching him fall more and more in love with her. These two were absolutely my favorite. I can’t wait until the next book. I’m dying to see what happens next. Linda has done it again! This book was a true gem.
I received an ARC copy and I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review.
I received an ARC copy and I’m voluntarily leaving my honest review.
December 23, 2024
The blurb for this book sounds like a straight forward angsty new adult read. It is missing a key element of the plot, the supernatural including ghosts and those who can communicate with them. I was not all prepared for that part of the story. I haven’t read the previous books in this series and while this works as a standalone, I wonder if the supernatural aspect had been set up better so I would have found them less jarring. As it stands, they did not work for me at all and took away from the central story which was already also competing with the foundations being laid for future couples in the series. Parker and Hope got lost in it all and their connection never really developed for me. I have enjoyed books by Kage before but this was a disappointment for me.
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review..
I received a copy of this book in exchange for an honest review..
January 4, 2025
I love all the books in this series but Parker and Hope's story is my favourite one yet!
"I knew at that moment, I was never going to be the same again. This girl had me locked down. She was in my head. She ran through my veins. She f*cking owned me."
I adored the snarky dynamic they had going on - all that friction between them was always going to explode into glorious, life-changing fireworks! The passion and desire between them was irresistible and addictive. Parker was the grump with a heart of gold, and Hope was the protective one who adored her brother, Alec. With both of them, once you were in their inner circle, they would do everything in their power to keep you safe and happy. I loved how alike the two of them were and how much they had in common.
This story was funny, hot and emotional. I absolutely loved it!
Amazon:
"I knew at that moment, I was never going to be the same again. This girl had me locked down. She was in my head. She ran through my veins. She f*cking owned me."
I adored the snarky dynamic they had going on - all that friction between them was always going to explode into glorious, life-changing fireworks! The passion and desire between them was irresistible and addictive. Parker was the grump with a heart of gold, and Hope was the protective one who adored her brother, Alec. With both of them, once you were in their inner circle, they would do everything in their power to keep you safe and happy. I loved how alike the two of them were and how much they had in common.
This story was funny, hot and emotional. I absolutely loved it!
Amazon:
January 13, 2025
Hope and Parker's story I devoured. Intense, Drama and OH such witty dialogue between these two!!, beautiful moments, Raw moments, Breathtaking and Emotional moments… my Heart is still recovering….and I am speechless. When people mention the thin line between hate and love… I believe Linda had that in line writing these two. The chemistry at times literally so so blazing… it's amazing how authors can portray this to pages….I liked all the books so far… but Parker and Hope's… my favorite… between the hate, love, chemistry and as details unfolds… combined with the "seven" … I highly recommend getting the book!!!
I received this as a free copy and leaving my honest review voluntarily.
I received this as a free copy and leaving my honest review voluntarily.
June 24, 2025
I did really like this book but of the 7 series (I've read the 1st 3), it wasn't my favorite. I do love angry, tortured Parker - and I was really looking forward to his story. When he explained to Foster about 'hair pulling' - whew!! that was HOT! I'm trying to get my husband to pull my hair! But although I kinda liked her, I didn't love Hope - she's kinda mean. And I had to suspend belief to accept that a person in end-stage liver failure wouldn't look like a wreck and not be sexy at all. But still I gobbled up the book because I love The Seven and their intereactions with each and Parker is still a secretly good, bad boy, sex-god with enough confidence to fill a amphitheater!
August 30, 2025
This book deals with Parker and Hope. He is known as Grumpy because Hope has named all the seven boys in the group after the seven dwarfs. He has past trauma dealing with the death of his parents and she is dealing with the trauma of the death of her father. It is a surprise to both of them when they get feelings for each other. She is also a sister to one of the seven named Alec. This book also deals with the supernatural. Such a great book. I highly recommend this book to all supernatural romance readers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
December 31, 2024
As invested as I am in The Seven right now, I would NEVER have turned down this free copy!
Have you ever binge watched a tv show that was so good, that you were choked you had to wait for the next season? Yeah. That. Thanks for that, Linda Kage! Can we have the rest, now?!
Just so we are clear, there are no cliffhangers, no "to be continued"s… Just a story. Seven of them. Each with their own Happily Ever After! But three stories are being dangled in front of me right now, and I NEED them!
Read this series. ALL OF THEM!
Have you ever binge watched a tv show that was so good, that you were choked you had to wait for the next season? Yeah. That. Thanks for that, Linda Kage! Can we have the rest, now?!
Just so we are clear, there are no cliffhangers, no "to be continued"s… Just a story. Seven of them. Each with their own Happily Ever After! But three stories are being dangled in front of me right now, and I NEED them!
Read this series. ALL OF THEM!
March 5, 2025
This sounded like a heart wrenching, tear jerker of a book. Nowhere at all in the blurb does it mention that this book contains paranormal elements, and in no way does the cover show this. While I have no issues reading stories with paranormal elements, in this case ghosts, I was under the impression I was signing up to read a straight up romance. Perhaps if the blurb or cover had indicated this in any way, it would have made the addition of ghosts less of a ‘what the…’ moment.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review.
Thank you to NetGalley for the ARC in return for an honest review.
December 16, 2024
Great romance! I loved grumpy and Hope. He was so surly and yet such a sweet marshmallow inside. I loved how Alec and her were such great siblings to one another. Grumpy would do anything foe Hope and Hope made sure to take care of him in all the ways she could for when she was gone. Such a touching loving cry worthy story. It made mw cry a lot it is a story worth reading with all the feels.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
December 20, 2024
This book it's not what I was expecting. Its much better. Totally surprised me. I love Holy. The characters are completely unique. I love it. All the sarcasm, rude answers for some nice to others. It was such a fun to read. Even though it has upsetting aspect of approaching death still most of the time I had smile on my face. It was easy to read. My favourite from series is still 3rd book but this one is not far off. Now I can't wait to get to the story of Nova and Thane.
December 26, 2024
I was not too keen on this series because of the paranormal tint to it.
But it's Linda Kage!
And I absolutely enjoyed the forbidden men series!
So when I saw this release with an FMC with liver failure , wanting just one chance to be bad with her brother's best friend I had to jump on it!!
You know what?
Now I want to start the series from the beginning 😅
Enemies to lovers, hot and steamy sometimes emotional.
Not one regret! Happy reader right here!😊
But it's Linda Kage!
And I absolutely enjoyed the forbidden men series!
So when I saw this release with an FMC with liver failure , wanting just one chance to be bad with her brother's best friend I had to jump on it!!
You know what?
Now I want to start the series from the beginning 😅
Enemies to lovers, hot and steamy sometimes emotional.
Not one regret! Happy reader right here!😊
January 9, 2025
This is a well written book with strong characters in Parker and Hope. The author does a great job developing their relationship and takes you into their lives with secrets, lies and a ton of emotions. She does a wonderful job bringing the story to life with her perfectly painted scenes and delivers an emotional and heartbreaking read. Have the tissues ready for this one!
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book. All opinions in this review are my own and are freely given.
November 23, 2025
Thoroughly enjoyed reading Hope and Parker's story. Parker's story does tug at the heart strings and the banter between Parker and Hope is enjoyable to read. I love that the author includes the seven and their girlfriends throughout the series which is the highlight.
The paranormal element is still there but only between the other characters. As the story continues you get to understand Parker's back story just like the other books. Well written.
The paranormal element is still there but only between the other characters. As the story continues you get to understand Parker's back story just like the other books. Well written.
August 29, 2025
This is such a bittersweet story with Parker and Hope becoming entangled with each other despite both of them not exactly liking the other much to begin with. Another romance with paranormal activity and twist that are sure to surprise. Another winner in this series to fall in love with.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
January 20, 2025
I loved Parker and Hope. This story had me feeling every emotion along with the characters. This was an amazing story. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Want to read
January 6, 2025This dynamic has drama written all over it. We're on board.
March 2, 2025
What an emotional ride! I loved it! I have read the other novels in this series and loved them. This novel didn't disappoint. I was excited to jump back into this series and was not disappointed. This novel checked so many boxes for me. From the first chapter this novel reached across the pages and grabbed ahold of my heart and held on tight until the very last page. Wow, I loved it! I loved Parker and Hope's story. Although this novel took me on such an emotional ride. Their chemistry was so good! I loved their story and watching them fall in love. Once I started reading I could not put this novel down. I can hardly wait to see what this author has coming next. So good! I loved it!
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