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Misted Pines #4
The Woman Left Behind
There are two dead bodies in Idaho, and the gun used to kill them has been traced back to a sixteen-year-old robbery in Misted Pines.
Sheriff Harry Moran has a broken heart and a stack of case files on his desk that the corrupt sheriff who came before him might have bungled.
Or he may have framed innocent people.
The first case Harry dives into, the woman left behind lives just a block away from his office.
When Lillian Rainier opens the door to the sheriff, Harry, who’s been a dead man walking since his wife died, comes back to life.
As for Lillian, she’s had a crush on Harry for forever, Harry showing at her door, and how he is when he does only makes her fall deeper.
As Harry and his team dive into these suspicious cases, Harry and Lillian have to figure out what to do with all they feel for each other, how hard it hits them, and how deep it goes.
But as a voice from the past becomes a witness in the present, and Harry and his crew dig deeper, they sense something sinister happened years ago.
As they weave together the threads of a cold case, they realize how messy it is.
Worse, the man behind the mess is desperately cleaning it up …
And no one in Misted Pines is safe.
Sheriff Harry Moran has a broken heart and a stack of case files on his desk that the corrupt sheriff who came before him might have bungled.
Or he may have framed innocent people.
The first case Harry dives into, the woman left behind lives just a block away from his office.
When Lillian Rainier opens the door to the sheriff, Harry, who’s been a dead man walking since his wife died, comes back to life.
As for Lillian, she’s had a crush on Harry for forever, Harry showing at her door, and how he is when he does only makes her fall deeper.
As Harry and his team dive into these suspicious cases, Harry and Lillian have to figure out what to do with all they feel for each other, how hard it hits them, and how deep it goes.
But as a voice from the past becomes a witness in the present, and Harry and his crew dig deeper, they sense something sinister happened years ago.
As they weave together the threads of a cold case, they realize how messy it is.
Worse, the man behind the mess is desperately cleaning it up …
And no one in Misted Pines is safe.
418 pages, Kindle Edition
First published April 15, 2025
288 people are currently reading
929 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Ashley
144 books39.6k followersKristen Ashley was born in Gary, Indiana, USA. She nearly killed her mother and herself making it into the world, seeing as she had the umbilical cord wrapped around her neck (already attempting to accessorise and she hadn't taken her first breath!).
Kristen grew up in Brownsburg, Indiana but has lived in Denver, Colorado and the West Country of England. Thus she has been blessed to have friends and family around the globe. Her posse is loopy (to say the least) but loopy is good when you want to write.
Kristen was raised in a house with a large and multi-generational family. They lived on a very small farm in a small town in the heartland and existed amongst the strains of Glenn Miller, The Everly Brothers, REO Speedwagon and Whitesnake (and the wardrobes that matched).
Needless to say, growing up in a house full of music, clothes and love was a good way to grow up.
And as she keeps growing up, it keeps getting better.
Kristen grew up in Brownsburg, Indiana but has lived in Denver, Colorado and the West Country of England. Thus she has been blessed to have friends and family around the globe. Her posse is loopy (to say the least) but loopy is good when you want to write.
Kristen was raised in a house with a large and multi-generational family. They lived on a very small farm in a small town in the heartland and existed amongst the strains of Glenn Miller, The Everly Brothers, REO Speedwagon and Whitesnake (and the wardrobes that matched).
Needless to say, growing up in a house full of music, clothes and love was a good way to grow up.
And as she keeps growing up, it keeps getting better.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 197 reviews
April 16, 2025
This is my favorite Kristen Ashley series of recent years. Something about the mysteries, the dual POVs, the compelling plots that don't rely on over-the-top dramas to deal the deck... I don't know. But whatever it is, I love it, and this latest installment is no exception.
Characters: ★★★★
Plot/Pacing: ★★★★★
Enjoyment: ★★★★★
The Woman Left Behind is the fourth book in the Misted Pines romance mystery series by Kristen Ashley. The first book, The Girl in the Mist, is the best place to start if you want to get the full experience. However, like most romance novels, this fourth book is a self-contained story so you can definitely jump in here if you'd like to do that.
This is the story of Misted Pines' beloved sheriff: Harry Moran.
We've gotten to know Harry in the previous novels as he went from the one straight-shooter investigator underneath the corrupt former sheriff to becoming the sheriff of Misted Pines' dreams. He's an honest, hardworking, law-abiding good guy with a sad past and a heart of gold. He's a widower in need of a bright spot amidst his dark job and his solitary lifestyle.
So it was time for him to find his happy ending... Enter Lillian Rainier.
Lillian's had a hard go at life as well. When she was 19 years old, her loving parents were implicated in a local robbery and they disappeared. They never came back home, despite being devoted to their daughter. Lillian knows what that means after 16 years of no contact, no letters, and no news.
But now there have been updates in her parents' long dead case. Harry Moran meets Lillian for the first time—and let's just say the sparks fly instantly.
With emotional journeys, small-town heart, a compelling series of mysteries, and lots of cameos from the previous books in the series, The Woman Left Behind was a treat!
I think one of this series' most compelling points is the focus on older-aged protagonists (and not even "old"!) and second chance romances. While that shouldn't be unique, in today's romance market it is. It's rare to see characters finding love in their late 30s, 40s, and beyond—the 20-somethings and early 30-somethings seem to have all of the fun in publishing. So it's refreshing that the entire series of Misted Pines focuses on the rest of us.
It's also one of my favorite combinations of high-stakes drama—in this case, the police procedurals—and yet real-life levels of cozy and slice of life. While I'm a huge KA fan and love all of her works to different degrees, I confess that sometimes the high-octane OTT drama levels of some of the other series get to me sometimes and I wish for something slower, softer, and more grounded in reality. Misted Pines is that series for me.
I loved the love story for Harry and Lillian. I found it sweet, well-plotted, and one of KA's best in recent years for writing style and overall emotional resonance. A slam dunk! Eagerly looking forward to more of the Misted Pines series.
Thank you to the author for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
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Characters: ★★★★
Plot/Pacing: ★★★★★
Enjoyment: ★★★★★
The Woman Left Behind is the fourth book in the Misted Pines romance mystery series by Kristen Ashley. The first book, The Girl in the Mist, is the best place to start if you want to get the full experience. However, like most romance novels, this fourth book is a self-contained story so you can definitely jump in here if you'd like to do that.
This is the story of Misted Pines' beloved sheriff: Harry Moran.
We've gotten to know Harry in the previous novels as he went from the one straight-shooter investigator underneath the corrupt former sheriff to becoming the sheriff of Misted Pines' dreams. He's an honest, hardworking, law-abiding good guy with a sad past and a heart of gold. He's a widower in need of a bright spot amidst his dark job and his solitary lifestyle.
So it was time for him to find his happy ending... Enter Lillian Rainier.
Lillian's had a hard go at life as well. When she was 19 years old, her loving parents were implicated in a local robbery and they disappeared. They never came back home, despite being devoted to their daughter. Lillian knows what that means after 16 years of no contact, no letters, and no news.
But now there have been updates in her parents' long dead case. Harry Moran meets Lillian for the first time—and let's just say the sparks fly instantly.
With emotional journeys, small-town heart, a compelling series of mysteries, and lots of cameos from the previous books in the series, The Woman Left Behind was a treat!
I think one of this series' most compelling points is the focus on older-aged protagonists (and not even "old"!) and second chance romances. While that shouldn't be unique, in today's romance market it is. It's rare to see characters finding love in their late 30s, 40s, and beyond—the 20-somethings and early 30-somethings seem to have all of the fun in publishing. So it's refreshing that the entire series of Misted Pines focuses on the rest of us.
It's also one of my favorite combinations of high-stakes drama—in this case, the police procedurals—and yet real-life levels of cozy and slice of life. While I'm a huge KA fan and love all of her works to different degrees, I confess that sometimes the high-octane OTT drama levels of some of the other series get to me sometimes and I wish for something slower, softer, and more grounded in reality. Misted Pines is that series for me.
I loved the love story for Harry and Lillian. I found it sweet, well-plotted, and one of KA's best in recent years for writing style and overall emotional resonance. A slam dunk! Eagerly looking forward to more of the Misted Pines series.
Thank you to the author for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
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April 16, 2025
I don’t know, maybe I have outgrown KA’s writing style, or maybe she has not evolved enough for me. I had high hopes for Harry’s book, and I was really, really bored. I powered through, hoping for some action, hoping for some true romance, but we readers sort of limped through. Book one and two of this series were FANTASTIC, book 3 and 4 were subpar.
April 18, 2025
5 stars. You all know by now I’m a huge KA fan. If she writes it, I will read it. I’ve read over 50 books from her, so when I say that Harry Moran is one of my all time favorite KA heroes, you KNOW that means he’s incredible. He’s not KA’s typical male lead— he’s essentially her version of a cinnamon role. He’s still pretty manly, but also evolved. He’s gruff but speaks in full sentences. Yes, there were chin lifts, but they weren’t in lieu of actual conversation. And he was alpha (town sheriff and all) but not in your face about it, and absolutely open to discussion. When I say, I could read an entire series about Harry solving crime and falling in love with Lillian, I am not exaggerating. Literally. KA should do an entire spin-off series following Harry and Lillian as the leads where they continue to unravel the mess that is the Misted Lines sheriff’s department. Lillian was such a sweet and likeable character as well. And honestly, the perfect complement to Harry. Both of them suffered incredible losses, but that’s didn’t keep them from being good people down to their core. In this book we get a great couple to root for, a compelling mystery, a quirky small town, and insane found family vibes. Compared to the other books in this series, the vibe is a little less gothic, but everything about this one worked out to make it my favorite in the series. I’m SO excited she’s continuing the Misted Pine books, and can’t wait to see who is next!
Thank you so much to Kristen and her team for the ARC in exchange for my review!
Thank you so much to Kristen and her team for the ARC in exchange for my review!
April 19, 2025
Well, it's between 3 and 4, but I'm rounding to 4 because this guy is the greenest of green flags ever written by KA. I just gotta reward that 😂
March 17, 2025
The Woman Left Behind is a perfect blend of all the feels romance and compelling mystery with crime solving too!
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. Thank you to the author and her team. All opinions are my own and given freely.*
Harry is the new sheriff and he has his work cut out for him in the smalltown of Misted Pines. He has a stack of case files to go through and further investigate since cleaning house at the station of all the corrupt officers- including the previous sheriff. He decides to start with the woman left behind-Lillian. A woman just down the street from the station, one he's never noticed, perhaps due to the fog of grief he's been in for years. But she's noticed him... she's always had a crush. As they work through their connection and new feelings, the case heats up and proves to be quite messy. So messy the criminal responsible is desperately trying to clean up their mess, leaving no one safe.
The way I swooned at the very start of this book. I was SOLD. Harry is such a GOOD GUY. He is a pillar of strength and authority for this town. But also so kind, caring and such a true gentleman. The way the comfort trope came to play in the first meet- I was so giddy. I equally adored Lillian. Like meets like in this one, because she is equally just as soft and sweet. I loved their connection, and I didn't mind one bit that they just dove right in headfirst. Cutting to the chase of their attraction and developing feelings, before moving into a physical connection. But there is such delicious tension and chemistry that slow burns into steam. Making it so worth the wait.
These two gave me a smidge of Chace and Faye (from Breathe) vibes that I liked. But the whole town setting that the author has created is fabulous. There is a strong found family vibe, in the way they all come together to support one another. The side characters are so compelling and really make each story that much more complete. I also really enjoyed the mystery and crime solving component too. I felt as if this story was much slower paced, allowing you to really enjoy the development of the connection. I just loved taking my time with this one. Another fantastic addition to this series. I hope there are many more to come! The twins perhaps? Stormy? I'm ready for whatever comes next- I'm not fussy!
CW:
* I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. Thank you to the author and her team. All opinions are my own and given freely.*
Harry is the new sheriff and he has his work cut out for him in the smalltown of Misted Pines. He has a stack of case files to go through and further investigate since cleaning house at the station of all the corrupt officers- including the previous sheriff. He decides to start with the woman left behind-Lillian. A woman just down the street from the station, one he's never noticed, perhaps due to the fog of grief he's been in for years. But she's noticed him... she's always had a crush. As they work through their connection and new feelings, the case heats up and proves to be quite messy. So messy the criminal responsible is desperately trying to clean up their mess, leaving no one safe.
The way I swooned at the very start of this book. I was SOLD. Harry is such a GOOD GUY. He is a pillar of strength and authority for this town. But also so kind, caring and such a true gentleman. The way the comfort trope came to play in the first meet- I was so giddy. I equally adored Lillian. Like meets like in this one, because she is equally just as soft and sweet. I loved their connection, and I didn't mind one bit that they just dove right in headfirst. Cutting to the chase of their attraction and developing feelings, before moving into a physical connection. But there is such delicious tension and chemistry that slow burns into steam. Making it so worth the wait.
These two gave me a smidge of Chace and Faye (from Breathe) vibes that I liked. But the whole town setting that the author has created is fabulous. There is a strong found family vibe, in the way they all come together to support one another. The side characters are so compelling and really make each story that much more complete. I also really enjoyed the mystery and crime solving component too. I felt as if this story was much slower paced, allowing you to really enjoy the development of the connection. I just loved taking my time with this one. Another fantastic addition to this series. I hope there are many more to come! The twins perhaps? Stormy? I'm ready for whatever comes next- I'm not fussy!
CW:
April 24, 2025
I knew I was going to love Harry's story. He was just an honorable guy as we got to know him in previous books and I loved Lillian for him. Her story is just as heartbreaking as his and you can't help but root for these two. Their story was very sweet. Now...when are we getting Stormy's story? I'm so intrigued by him!!
Read
April 17, 2025This is book 4 in the series and in book 1 it established that there was police corruption so the consequences of that have run through the series.
The Hero in this book is the Sheriff so he's cleaning up alot of mess and it leads to a cold case being reopened when bodies are found.
Both the Hero and heroine have suffered loss.
He's a widow, his wife died some time ago, years, I think maybe 7, in a previous book where he was a secondary character, he was told to start living his life as he was so wrapped up in grief he just worked and not much else.
This has meant he hasn't been with anyone else since his wife.
A huge positive especially for a KA book.
The heroine is divorced and has had serious relationships that haven't worked out.
The heroine doesn't have any family except elderly grandparents who live away but has really good friends.
A huge positive was the Hero has healthy family relationships and the heroine has supportive, posse of friends.
The Hero has dealt with his grief and is ready to restart his life.
The cold case, mysteries are long and complicated. I did feel the couple's story gets a bit lost in the details of the police work. To be honest it got a bit boring.
They are pretty insta, Rock Chick move of him living with her within days due to circumstances.
They were smooth sailing between them, she has an ex husband who causes some issues.
The cases involve so many people, criminals and police, FBI, investigators it got a bit too much tbh.
Definitely read series in order due to crime history and previous characters popping up.
Dual POV.
The Hero in this book is the Sheriff so he's cleaning up alot of mess and it leads to a cold case being reopened when bodies are found.
Both the Hero and heroine have suffered loss.
He's a widow, his wife died some time ago, years, I think maybe 7, in a previous book where he was a secondary character, he was told to start living his life as he was so wrapped up in grief he just worked and not much else.
This has meant he hasn't been with anyone else since his wife.
A huge positive especially for a KA book.
The heroine is divorced and has had serious relationships that haven't worked out.
The heroine doesn't have any family except elderly grandparents who live away but has really good friends.
A huge positive was the Hero has healthy family relationships and the heroine has supportive, posse of friends.
The Hero has dealt with his grief and is ready to restart his life.
The cold case, mysteries are long and complicated. I did feel the couple's story gets a bit lost in the details of the police work. To be honest it got a bit boring.
They are pretty insta, Rock Chick move of him living with her within days due to circumstances.
They were smooth sailing between them, she has an ex husband who causes some issues.
The cases involve so many people, criminals and police, FBI, investigators it got a bit too much tbh.
Definitely read series in order due to crime history and previous characters popping up.
Dual POV.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 6, 2025
Review: 4 stars
This was way less thriller-ish than the first three books and more of her standard KA books.
I wasn't too much fan of the insta-love after Harry acted like nothing could change his mind in the previous books and suddenly fell for someone!
Overall, this one is a solid read, with her classic KA hero, Harry, who is protective, and a strong heroine like Lillian. It speaks to getting a second chance at love as the characters are older and strong family concepts, where their friends and neighbours rally around them, and how KA speaks to the goodness of that. I'm glad Harry got his HEA.
This was way less thriller-ish than the first three books and more of her standard KA books.
I wasn't too much fan of the insta-love after Harry acted like nothing could change his mind in the previous books and suddenly fell for someone!
Overall, this one is a solid read, with her classic KA hero, Harry, who is protective, and a strong heroine like Lillian. It speaks to getting a second chance at love as the characters are older and strong family concepts, where their friends and neighbours rally around them, and how KA speaks to the goodness of that. I'm glad Harry got his HEA.
April 24, 2025
It pains me that at first as I sat to type this, I couldn't recall much, it's coming back to me now, but still, as I recall the story, it still pains me because I really am sort of neither here or there with it.
The first two things to occur. The sixteen year silence and the fact that Harry has never heard of or seen Lillian were both just such a stretch for me. And yes, I understand it's possible he doesn't know everyone but well, she'd have been on his radar regardless of his blinders and his lack of living.
And unfortunately for me, that stuck with me.
I don't know. I saw a review from one of my friends and they said "this was perfectly fine". And that is what it was. I'll maybe not stick with the perfectly, but it was definitely fine.
I guess the romance was cute. I mean, I love that Lillian had a crush like she did and when she thought she had a shot, she took it. Even more, with the heartbreak that is Harry, him getting that shot right through the heart was lovely. I loved that for him, he saw someone and felt something and he also, took it. But really, all that happened so quick and so early in the book and it just was. That's that.
I enjoyed digging through all the corruption, even though most of it was hard to stomach, but it wasn't enough.
And I guess, the best part of the book was the focus on family and friends and this wonderful community but that just lead me back to the fact that the town was all there for Lillian, they all were so very sad about her well loved parents and Harry just didn't know who she was! Anyway...
Yes. The family and friends and community was lovely. But again, it just wasn't enough.
I don't know if it needed a tad bit of emotional relationship drama. Maybe a kidnapping? HAHA! I don't know.
It was fine.
If anything, it made me want to re-read something a little older, so that is exactly what I did.
The first two things to occur. The sixteen year silence and the fact that Harry has never heard of or seen Lillian were both just such a stretch for me. And yes, I understand it's possible he doesn't know everyone but well, she'd have been on his radar regardless of his blinders and his lack of living.
And unfortunately for me, that stuck with me.
I don't know. I saw a review from one of my friends and they said "this was perfectly fine". And that is what it was. I'll maybe not stick with the perfectly, but it was definitely fine.
I guess the romance was cute. I mean, I love that Lillian had a crush like she did and when she thought she had a shot, she took it. Even more, with the heartbreak that is Harry, him getting that shot right through the heart was lovely. I loved that for him, he saw someone and felt something and he also, took it. But really, all that happened so quick and so early in the book and it just was. That's that.
I enjoyed digging through all the corruption, even though most of it was hard to stomach, but it wasn't enough.
And I guess, the best part of the book was the focus on family and friends and this wonderful community but that just lead me back to the fact that the town was all there for Lillian, they all were so very sad about her well loved parents and Harry just didn't know who she was! Anyway...
Yes. The family and friends and community was lovely. But again, it just wasn't enough.
I don't know if it needed a tad bit of emotional relationship drama. Maybe a kidnapping? HAHA! I don't know.
It was fine.
If anything, it made me want to re-read something a little older, so that is exactly what I did.
April 15, 2025
The slow burn of The Woman Left Behind is a stunning example of a romantic build. Sweet yet fiery. Calm yet erratic. Trust and honesty. They all work hand in hand to create a beautiful and all-encompassing read. Thank you so much to KA for sharing this with me. I adored it.
~Tanja
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~Tanja
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May 7, 2025
What is with Kristen Ashley making me cry?!
Okay, it is not like it is the first or second time and to be honest.
It probably won't be the last either.
The Woman Left Behind is a story of loss, grief, heartache and pain. In that loss and pain, comes closure and a hope at a second chance.
Since book one of the Misted Pines series, I have been longing for Harry Moran to get his happily ever after. Once he lost his wife he was stuck in the rut of grief and pain. Much like Lillian Rainier. Grief is a fickle creature and once it gets its claws into you it is almost impossible to get them out. Yet, in the light of something good there is also something very bad plaguing Misted Pines and that draws Lillian and Harry together.
From the moment they meet you can tell these two are destined to be together. They both know what it is like to feel the loss of someone you love. In vastly different ways, but loss is loss and not one person's loss is greater than another's.
As the mystery unfolds you start to see just how much these two mean to one another. Love can happen at any time, even in the midst of a murder investigation.
I've kept the details vague on purpose. One spoiler could ruin this book for someone who hasn't read it, and I won't do that. What I will say is that Misted Pines is some of Kristen Ashley's best work since Colorado Mountain Men.
Carly Robins and Dylan Reilly Fitzpatrick made this story come to life with their narration. I've been a fan of Carly for years, but Dylan is a new narrator for me. I hope to see his name pop up again sometime soon.
Okay, it is not like it is the first or second time and to be honest.
It probably won't be the last either.
The Woman Left Behind is a story of loss, grief, heartache and pain. In that loss and pain, comes closure and a hope at a second chance.
Since book one of the Misted Pines series, I have been longing for Harry Moran to get his happily ever after. Once he lost his wife he was stuck in the rut of grief and pain. Much like Lillian Rainier. Grief is a fickle creature and once it gets its claws into you it is almost impossible to get them out. Yet, in the light of something good there is also something very bad plaguing Misted Pines and that draws Lillian and Harry together.
From the moment they meet you can tell these two are destined to be together. They both know what it is like to feel the loss of someone you love. In vastly different ways, but loss is loss and not one person's loss is greater than another's.
As the mystery unfolds you start to see just how much these two mean to one another. Love can happen at any time, even in the midst of a murder investigation.
I've kept the details vague on purpose. One spoiler could ruin this book for someone who hasn't read it, and I won't do that. What I will say is that Misted Pines is some of Kristen Ashley's best work since Colorado Mountain Men.
Carly Robins and Dylan Reilly Fitzpatrick made this story come to life with their narration. I've been a fan of Carly for years, but Dylan is a new narrator for me. I hope to see his name pop up again sometime soon.
May 9, 2025
The Woman Left Behind by Kristen Ashley
Misted Pines Book 4. Can Stand Alone. Romantic Thriller/Suspense/Mystery
Thank you to Kristen Ashley and her team for an early copy of this book for review. My reviews are always honest and unpaid. This post contains affiliate links.
“I would love this man until my dying breath.”
I’ve been waiting for Harry’s story since the very first book in the Misted Pines Series and The Woman Left Behind by Kristen Ashley finally gave it to us. Widowed seven years ago, after only a year of marriage, Harry is now the new sheriff in town, stepping in after Leland Dern and half his department were taken down in a corruption scandal. His job? Sort through all the old cases and figure out what was overlooked—or intentionally ignored. That’s how he stumbles on a sixteen-year-old robbery case… and two bodies recently discovered a few states away that might be tied to it.
Sixteen years ago, Lillian’s loving, well-respected parents were accused of burglary. They didn’t do it—but they vanished, leaving 17-year-old Lillian alone and hoping someone would find the truth. Nobody in their small town believed they were guilty, and the community rallied around Lillian after they disappeared.
Now, all these years later, Harry delivers the devastating news that two bodies might be her parents. When he shows up at her house, something clicks into place for him—something that’s been dormant since his wife died. And here’s the kicker: Lillian has been quietly crushing on “Handsome Harry” for years. She’s been to town meetings, lives just a block from the station, and yet Harry had never really seen her before. Maybe it was grief. Maybe it just wasn’t time yet. But now that he sees her—really sees her—everything changes.
“She frowned at it. ‘Stop being hot.’
‘I’ll try.’
Her eyes lifted to his. ‘You’ll fail.’”
They get together pretty early on, but Harry, being the good guy he is, doesn’t want their relationship to begin while she’s in the middle of a traumatic investigation. He wants to wait until her case is resolved—until she’s truly okay. He was such a sweet, respectful guy, but with just enough alpha edge to make it delicious.
The romance was a strong part of the story, but the mystery surrounding her parents took center stage. Now that old cases are being dug up, someone is getting nervous—and things start to get dangerous.
“I’m so sorry you have to go through this with me.”
“Lilly,” he said sharply. At his tone, he felt her head move and her gaze on him through the dark. When he got the last, he stated, “I feel like the luckiest man on the planet that I get to be here for you while you go through this.”
This is the fourth book in the series, and while it could stand alone, the police corruption arc started in the earlier books, so I’d recommend reading them in order. As with most of KA’s recent books, there were a lot of characters—both new and from the previous stories—and reading a physical ARC over the course of a month made it hard to keep them all straight. I think if I had read it faster or had the audiobook, I wouldn’t have struggled as much.
That said, even when I was a little lost in the details, the romance made it completely worth it.
“Lillian had rested her cheek on her knee, but her gaze was on him, a look on her face he’d seen nuances of since he’d met her, but the feeling behind it was full force now, nothing buried, nothing hidden, nothing restrained, and it hit him like a rocket. There was gratitude, and such depth of affection, it felt like it filled the room, he was swimming in it, and the waters were cleansing and warm. And he’d been reborn.”
Likes:
•Harry Moran is just so amazing—the way he truly sees her and tries to help in any way is just ~~sigh~~....
•Brought out all the feels.
•Lillian couldn’t have been a better heroine. Her strength and light really made the book special.
•I loved Lillian’s found family.
•The dogs were such a great addition to the story.
•I always like how Kristen’s books are first person for the female and third for the male.
•Mature characters who have lived a little.
•Lillian had a history of picking guys not good for her—don’t we all? This made her more realistic to me.
•How they were mature and talked—great, mature communication.
•I fell in love with her parents through the narrative, even though they were never in the book.
Dislikes:
•I had trouble keeping all the characters straight.
•The couple was together and solid from very early in the book.
•I found it a little slow—I was never racing to pick it back up, even if I loved it when I was reading it.
The Down & Dirty:
Kristen Ashley is one of my favorite authors for a reason. Most important in a book is for me to love the FMC, and Lillian was awesome. Harry is the perfect romance hero: protective, a good communicator, handsome, sweet, alpha, and lets you know how he feels and how much he appreciates you. Add to that he’s hot in bed? Yep—perfect romance hero. The Woman Left Behind felt like a quieter, slower Kristen Ashley book, and it brought all the feels. I wish my menopause brain was better at keeping all the characters straight—I had to search a few names to remember who was who. While I usually enjoy a mystery/thriller, this one had so many threads that it was hard to connect them all. But the romance? I LOVED them together. I’m excited to return to Misted Pines… but I’ll probably wait for the audio next time.
Rating: 4.25 Stars, 2 Heat
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March 23, 2025
ARC received for an honest review
I am a terrible chicklet, and this is the first book in the Misted Pines series that I have read (I know, right? I am moving them right up my TBR as we speak)
However that did not affect my reading or enjoyment of The Woman Left Behind.
Harry and Lilly's story is one of those perfect blends of romance, mystery and hope.
Can I say that Harry is swooooon. Part bad ass, part squishmallow, all heart. He really needs to be an addition to the Dream Man series.
I love, how through the toughest times in their lives, they are each other's comfort. They give each other hope, they give each other friendship, and when it is least expected, they give each other love.
It has a classic good cop/bad cop, wild wild west kind of feel to it. Or maybe it is the good, the bad and the ugly at heart.
I didn't know the back story of the previous books and if they weave into this story, but that was not a problem at all. I was the newcomer to town, and I liked not knowing all about MP.
I love the found family, the close friendships, and just the vibe of everything around our lovelies.
I look forward to what Kristen Ashley brings us next, and going back to Misted Pines
I am a terrible chicklet, and this is the first book in the Misted Pines series that I have read (I know, right? I am moving them right up my TBR as we speak)
However that did not affect my reading or enjoyment of The Woman Left Behind.
Harry and Lilly's story is one of those perfect blends of romance, mystery and hope.
Can I say that Harry is swooooon. Part bad ass, part squishmallow, all heart. He really needs to be an addition to the Dream Man series.
I love, how through the toughest times in their lives, they are each other's comfort. They give each other hope, they give each other friendship, and when it is least expected, they give each other love.
It has a classic good cop/bad cop, wild wild west kind of feel to it. Or maybe it is the good, the bad and the ugly at heart.
I didn't know the back story of the previous books and if they weave into this story, but that was not a problem at all. I was the newcomer to town, and I liked not knowing all about MP.
I love the found family, the close friendships, and just the vibe of everything around our lovelies.
I look forward to what Kristen Ashley brings us next, and going back to Misted Pines
December 31, 2025
KA did amazing once again! Harry and Lilly have my heart!
This book really made me feel like I was back with Faye and Chase in her previous book, Breathe. Which made me love this whole story even more!
Harry is the small town cop who loves his job and wouldn't want to be doing anything else. He's trying to clean up the mess from the previous corrupt cops and has opened up so many cases. This leads him to Lilly and at first sight they both know something is there. Lilly is the sweet girl who keeps to herself after many tragic happenings in her life. She was so strong and independent but was willing to let Harry be there for her.
I loved the suspense in this story and it had me on the edge of my seat. KA did such a great job of guiding this story and making me gasp at every turn. I had chills when they finally were putting the final pieces together and I couldn't put it down. I love that Harry is finally getting another chance at love after mourning his previous wife's death and how Lilly brought him back to himself. There were so many heart warming moments mixed in with the drama and it kept me sucked into the story the whole time. If you haven't read this series yet I highly recommend it! Each book gets better and better!
Thank you Kristen Ashley and team for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
This book really made me feel like I was back with Faye and Chase in her previous book, Breathe. Which made me love this whole story even more!
Harry is the small town cop who loves his job and wouldn't want to be doing anything else. He's trying to clean up the mess from the previous corrupt cops and has opened up so many cases. This leads him to Lilly and at first sight they both know something is there. Lilly is the sweet girl who keeps to herself after many tragic happenings in her life. She was so strong and independent but was willing to let Harry be there for her.
I loved the suspense in this story and it had me on the edge of my seat. KA did such a great job of guiding this story and making me gasp at every turn. I had chills when they finally were putting the final pieces together and I couldn't put it down. I love that Harry is finally getting another chance at love after mourning his previous wife's death and how Lilly brought him back to himself. There were so many heart warming moments mixed in with the drama and it kept me sucked into the story the whole time. If you haven't read this series yet I highly recommend it! Each book gets better and better!
Thank you Kristen Ashley and team for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
April 17, 2025
Okay but this story was everything 🥹🩷
Harry was literally the definition of a dream man, I had been waiting for his story and omg it did not disappoint.
If you loved “the time in between” and loved Coert, you will absolutely love Harry. I adored the immediate chemistry between him and Lilly. I loved how sweet and strong she was and I loved that Harry saw that but still took care of her and did his best to protect her heart and was just there for her. It was soooo beautiful and beautifully written.
“Never, sweetheart, never, no matter what shit I’m dealing with at work, do you bury shit you’re dealing with. Never keep it from me. Never.”
I mean, come on 😭😭😭😭 FREAKING SWOON 🤭🩷🥹
I love the mystery aspect to this series and it definitely keeps you on your toes!
Now I’m super excited to see who’s next. My vote is Stormy! 🥹 he deserves so much and I can’t wait to get to his story.
Harry was literally the definition of a dream man, I had been waiting for his story and omg it did not disappoint.
If you loved “the time in between” and loved Coert, you will absolutely love Harry. I adored the immediate chemistry between him and Lilly. I loved how sweet and strong she was and I loved that Harry saw that but still took care of her and did his best to protect her heart and was just there for her. It was soooo beautiful and beautifully written.
“Never, sweetheart, never, no matter what shit I’m dealing with at work, do you bury shit you’re dealing with. Never keep it from me. Never.”
I mean, come on 😭😭😭😭 FREAKING SWOON 🤭🩷🥹
I love the mystery aspect to this series and it definitely keeps you on your toes!
Now I’m super excited to see who’s next. My vote is Stormy! 🥹 he deserves so much and I can’t wait to get to his story.
April 20, 2025
4 Harry x Lillian stars
Absolutely loved this!
So glad Harry got his HEA.
The story. The main & minor character relationships. The build up.
Adore.
Absolutely loved this!
So glad Harry got his HEA.
The story. The main & minor character relationships. The build up.
Adore.
November 27, 2025
Spoilers ahead 3 * given a bump because of Harry
We come to the tale of good guy Sheriff Harry Moran who took over after the corrupt and vile former Sheriff left a mess behind in such a small town. Harry has basically been a one woman man for years because he hadn't been with another woman since the death of his wife years before. His life is his job and although he's lived in misted pines same as Lilian for years...... he's just never noticed her..... until yet another case by Dern has been reopened, this one a robbery 16 years previously with the two accused going missing. The accused were the parents of Lillian. From all accounts however, they were a couple in love, fiercely devoted to each other and their only daughter..... why then would they rob his employer and then disappear? Harry seeks to bring closure for Lillian and justice for her parents.
*******
In all honesty even with the overlapping cases and the investigations I found myself a bit bored with this one.
Lillian and Harry felt the connection almost immediately and due to the circumstances of the case they got close pretty quickly and stayed close. Unlike typical KA Alpha's however Harry was truly a good guy, not like they tried to portray Mitch as a good guy 🙄but down to his bones good, loyal and true and for that reason this book deserves a higher star rating than I would usually give especially given the author 😅.
Lillian had a crush on Harry but she actually had relationships over the years, the last one we saw develop at the end of the previous book and it lasted over a year before they broke up. We do see her exes but typical of KA is the ex from many many years ago who actually causes the drama, which is just so unrealistic it's not even funny. Lillian herself wasn't a bad h, she liked Harry for years and they fell seemlessly together. She did have blinders on with the situation concerning her parents though because there's no way they'd be missing for 16 years with no letters or word to her. And when Dern was out why didn't she go to Harry and ask for help to locate them or something? idk
Anyway not my favourite of the series but a nonmanwhoring Alpha H from KA? Heck yeah Imma take it!
*******"
No cheating
H has been a widower for 7 years now one since his wife died
He does mention he loved his wife but he isn't pining for her and he doesn't push the h away
h was married briefly took a while to get her divorce, she had some relationships over the years as well
Slight OM drama
Murder
We come to the tale of good guy Sheriff Harry Moran who took over after the corrupt and vile former Sheriff left a mess behind in such a small town. Harry has basically been a one woman man for years because he hadn't been with another woman since the death of his wife years before. His life is his job and although he's lived in misted pines same as Lilian for years...... he's just never noticed her..... until yet another case by Dern has been reopened, this one a robbery 16 years previously with the two accused going missing. The accused were the parents of Lillian. From all accounts however, they were a couple in love, fiercely devoted to each other and their only daughter..... why then would they rob his employer and then disappear? Harry seeks to bring closure for Lillian and justice for her parents.
*******
In all honesty even with the overlapping cases and the investigations I found myself a bit bored with this one.
Lillian and Harry felt the connection almost immediately and due to the circumstances of the case they got close pretty quickly and stayed close. Unlike typical KA Alpha's however Harry was truly a good guy, not like they tried to portray Mitch as a good guy 🙄but down to his bones good, loyal and true and for that reason this book deserves a higher star rating than I would usually give especially given the author 😅.
Lillian had a crush on Harry but she actually had relationships over the years, the last one we saw develop at the end of the previous book and it lasted over a year before they broke up. We do see her exes but typical of KA is the ex from many many years ago who actually causes the drama, which is just so unrealistic it's not even funny. Lillian herself wasn't a bad h, she liked Harry for years and they fell seemlessly together. She did have blinders on with the situation concerning her parents though because there's no way they'd be missing for 16 years with no letters or word to her. And when Dern was out why didn't she go to Harry and ask for help to locate them or something? idk
Anyway not my favourite of the series but a nonmanwhoring Alpha H from KA? Heck yeah Imma take it!
*******"
No cheating
H has been a widower for 7 years now one since his wife died
He does mention he loved his wife but he isn't pining for her and he doesn't push the h away
h was married briefly took a while to get her divorce, she had some relationships over the years as well
Slight OM drama
Murder
April 21, 2025
So this was perfectly fine. It was definitely too long and the romance was kind of lacking but I enjoyed the other relationships. It very much focused on the sense of community in Misted Pines and the community surrounding Lillian and Harry. That was cute.
I found the start of this book to be the best part of it, it was all very emotional and just very sad, once Lilly and Harry decided on each other it was a bit boring though, as I said, perfectly fine, but there was no excitement, and I felt like they didn't have much chemistry.
I don't know what to say, cute but forgettable?
I'll be continuing on with this series, I need the twins story ASAP!
April 14, 2025
“And that was all in their messed-up world that Harry, down to his bones, knew. However Lillian Rainier came to him, he was going to like it.”
Uuughhh I’ve been WAITING for Harry’s book for what feels like forever, and it did not disappoint!
Ya’ll know I’m a massive KA fan, her books are my ultimate and constant comfort reads, and I absolutely love the Misted Pines universe. These books are the perfect blend of angsty crime-dramas and giggling-kicking-your-feet romance.
Harry is the new sheriff of Misted Pines and as we’ve seen in previous books, he’s got his work cut out for him. In trying to clean up some fishy cases from his less-than-above-board predecessor, Harry finds himself on Lillian’s doorstep. Lillian’s parents disappeared 15 years ago after being accused of a crime they most definitely did not commit, and when two bodies turn up with connections to the robbery they were alleged to have perpetrated, Harry and his officers start digging.
I would say this book actually spends a bit more time on the romance than the previous installments in this series (which you can read as standalones, but it’s better to go in order), but still had the same focus on the mystery and more low-drama, high-feels vibe in terms of the relationship. Harry and Lillian were so great together, and I really appreciated how they handled new and old grief as a couple. I’ve enjoyed this series because we’ve gotten older mc’s who have been through some life, and who aren’t afraid to admit their feelings for one another. Even though there isn’t a lot of back and forth in the romance development, it’s still engaging and swoony because they’re all just so dang cute and invested in one another.
I think this mystery also had a little less shock and awe than previous books, but I think it worked for the story and for the larger focus on the character and relationship development between Harry and Lillian. As the tangled threads of the interconnected crimes unwound, I was along for the ride and loving every minute
Thank you to KA and her team for the ARC of The Woman Left Behind - read it tomorrow!
Uuughhh I’ve been WAITING for Harry’s book for what feels like forever, and it did not disappoint!
Ya’ll know I’m a massive KA fan, her books are my ultimate and constant comfort reads, and I absolutely love the Misted Pines universe. These books are the perfect blend of angsty crime-dramas and giggling-kicking-your-feet romance.
Harry is the new sheriff of Misted Pines and as we’ve seen in previous books, he’s got his work cut out for him. In trying to clean up some fishy cases from his less-than-above-board predecessor, Harry finds himself on Lillian’s doorstep. Lillian’s parents disappeared 15 years ago after being accused of a crime they most definitely did not commit, and when two bodies turn up with connections to the robbery they were alleged to have perpetrated, Harry and his officers start digging.
I would say this book actually spends a bit more time on the romance than the previous installments in this series (which you can read as standalones, but it’s better to go in order), but still had the same focus on the mystery and more low-drama, high-feels vibe in terms of the relationship. Harry and Lillian were so great together, and I really appreciated how they handled new and old grief as a couple. I’ve enjoyed this series because we’ve gotten older mc’s who have been through some life, and who aren’t afraid to admit their feelings for one another. Even though there isn’t a lot of back and forth in the romance development, it’s still engaging and swoony because they’re all just so dang cute and invested in one another.
I think this mystery also had a little less shock and awe than previous books, but I think it worked for the story and for the larger focus on the character and relationship development between Harry and Lillian. As the tangled threads of the interconnected crimes unwound, I was along for the ride and loving every minute
Thank you to KA and her team for the ARC of The Woman Left Behind - read it tomorrow!
April 18, 2025
Sheriff Harry Moran is reinvestigating case files that might/might not be hinkey from the previous corrupt sheriff investigations. The first case involves the disappearance of a couple 16 years ago after they were accused of robbery. This brings him to Lillian Rainier, their daughter.
October 1, 2025
KA nails it again with the romantic suspense. this one was absolutely stellar.
April 21, 2025
*3.5 Stars*
July 3, 2025
After refusing to DNF this book for two months, I’m done at 60%. I just don’t care about it to finish it. I’m bored. I love KA! Maybe I’m spoiled by her. Moving on.
August 1, 2025
God. I can't feel my eyes anymore. I cried a bucket.
Although I skim thru the last 15% of the book. Too much 1st person POV and too much plot in 1 book.
But still an a-okay read tho.
Although I skim thru the last 15% of the book. Too much 1st person POV and too much plot in 1 book.
But still an a-okay read tho.
January 6, 2026
3.5 - 4……slow in parts but all the action came in the last part and that was worth the wait.
May 23, 2025
I loved this.
I loved this book. It was not to over the top action. I needed a soothing romance. I needed to shed a tear for loved ones lost while shedding a tear for the memories of their love playing warmly forward in the hearts of those left behind. I needed exactly this book.
I loved this book. It was not to over the top action. I needed a soothing romance. I needed to shed a tear for loved ones lost while shedding a tear for the memories of their love playing warmly forward in the hearts of those left behind. I needed exactly this book.
May 25, 2025
Whispersync special $2.19
It was... okay? not great. There was zero romantic tension or conflict. They just laid eyes on each other and then he moved in and that was that pretty much.
It was... okay? not great. There was zero romantic tension or conflict. They just laid eyes on each other and then he moved in and that was that pretty much.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 6, 2025
Wonderful romantic suspense
I am loving this series. Misted Pines is a wonderful town, filled with amazing characters. All of the drama and craziness will keep you on the edge of your seat while reading. I loved getting Harry's story and falling completely in love with him. He is so protective of the citizens of his town. When he connects with Lillian, he gets even more intense and I was 100% there for it. I loved their chemistry and how he was trying to take it slow, yet Lilly had other ideas. They have both been through so much, so they deserved some happiness and peace. They gave that to each other, despite all the drama swirling around them throughout this book. I really enjoyed how it all worked out.
I am loving this series. Misted Pines is a wonderful town, filled with amazing characters. All of the drama and craziness will keep you on the edge of your seat while reading. I loved getting Harry's story and falling completely in love with him. He is so protective of the citizens of his town. When he connects with Lillian, he gets even more intense and I was 100% there for it. I loved their chemistry and how he was trying to take it slow, yet Lilly had other ideas. They have both been through so much, so they deserved some happiness and peace. They gave that to each other, despite all the drama swirling around them throughout this book. I really enjoyed how it all worked out.
April 23, 2025
Wow. KA is my favorite for a reason and somehow she brings heavy emotion into Misted Pines and delivers EVERY TIME. 10/10 Harry totally got the HEA he deserved 💖
April 15, 2025
Loved this one. What more do you want from me.
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