What do you think?
Rate this book
Avenging Angels #3
Tenderfoot
Harlow O’Neill is waiting for Javier Montoya to make his move. She has it bad for the gorgeous new investigator at Nightingale Investigations and Security. She’s sure he knows it. She’s also sure he’s just as into her.
And she’s read the Rock Chick books. She knows how those Hottie Squad men are supposed to win their women.
Javi is just not trying to win her.
Then one evening Harlow is undercover on a mission for the Avenging Angels, and Javi blows her cover. She’s not happy about it. They share words and some of the ones Javi uses aren’t all that great.
Harlow retreats. Javi goes on the advance.
And the man Harlow was investigating winds up dead.
The Angels go all in to discover what’s happening with a dating app scam that ended up with a dead guy. The Nightingale men aren’t fans of the women wading in on such a dangerous case, and they’re doing something about it.
It’s a race between the Angels and the Hottie Squad as to who’s going to solve the mystery.
While all of that happens, Javi’s not taking any chances with Harlow’s safety. He moves her into his place and Harlow learns firsthand what it means to be in the romantic crosshairs of a member of the Hottie Squad…and the heartbreaking reasons why Javi kept her at arm’s length.
And she’s read the Rock Chick books. She knows how those Hottie Squad men are supposed to win their women.
Javi is just not trying to win her.
Then one evening Harlow is undercover on a mission for the Avenging Angels, and Javi blows her cover. She’s not happy about it. They share words and some of the ones Javi uses aren’t all that great.
Harlow retreats. Javi goes on the advance.
And the man Harlow was investigating winds up dead.
The Angels go all in to discover what’s happening with a dating app scam that ended up with a dead guy. The Nightingale men aren’t fans of the women wading in on such a dangerous case, and they’re doing something about it.
It’s a race between the Angels and the Hottie Squad as to who’s going to solve the mystery.
While all of that happens, Javi’s not taking any chances with Harlow’s safety. He moves her into his place and Harlow learns firsthand what it means to be in the romantic crosshairs of a member of the Hottie Squad…and the heartbreaking reasons why Javi kept her at arm’s length.
438 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 17, 2025
320 people are currently reading
752 people want to read
About the author
Kristen Ashley
133 books39.5k 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.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 206 reviews
June 29, 2025
3.5 stars
I hate to say it, but this one didn’t hit as solidly as the previous books. I did like the relationship between the Harlow and Javi, but the character development felt a bit lacking. I also expected more from the family drama, both hers and his. her toxic parents barely made an appearance until the end, and the whole thing with her brother was wrapped up in like two seconds.
the thing is, while I wasn’t missing the relationship drama, I felt like the book really needed some kind of suspense or drama or any kind of conflict to keep it interesting. there just wasn’t much going on. it had some really sweet and funny moments, but overall, it didn’t feel like there was a real story arc to follow.
I will always be a fan of KA and RC series, but I guess you can't love every single book. I’m assuming the next one will be about Luna and Knox, but honestly, I’m more interested in Willow and Gabe’s story. can’t wait to see where their story goes!
I hate to say it, but this one didn’t hit as solidly as the previous books. I did like the relationship between the Harlow and Javi, but the character development felt a bit lacking. I also expected more from the family drama, both hers and his. her toxic parents barely made an appearance until the end, and the whole thing with her brother was wrapped up in like two seconds.
the thing is, while I wasn’t missing the relationship drama, I felt like the book really needed some kind of suspense or drama or any kind of conflict to keep it interesting. there just wasn’t much going on. it had some really sweet and funny moments, but overall, it didn’t feel like there was a real story arc to follow.
I will always be a fan of KA and RC series, but I guess you can't love every single book. I’m assuming the next one will be about Luna and Knox, but honestly, I’m more interested in Willow and Gabe’s story. can’t wait to see where their story goes!
June 25, 2025
4.25 stars
This series has been a blast to read. I enjoyed ‘Tenderfoot’ even more than the first two. I think this is one of the best series Kristen Ashley has put out in years.
Javi and Harlow have a bit of opposites attract romance. I loved their vibe. I also loved all the music references in this one. It was just an all around good read. I’m glad this series doesn’t seem to be ending anytime soon!
This series has been a blast to read. I enjoyed ‘Tenderfoot’ even more than the first two. I think this is one of the best series Kristen Ashley has put out in years.
Javi and Harlow have a bit of opposites attract romance. I loved their vibe. I also loved all the music references in this one. It was just an all around good read. I’m glad this series doesn’t seem to be ending anytime soon!
Audio book source: Audible
Story Rating: 4.25 stars
Narrators: Stella Bloom
Narration Rating: 4 stars
Genre: Romance
Length: 10h 10m
June 16, 2025
3.5 stars
This latest installment of the Avenging Angels' series shares the story of Harlow and Javier—a romance teased since the first book that we've all been dyingggg to explore!—and the usual Charlie's Angels-esque shenanigans. Strap in for another good time!
Romance: ★★★★
Plot/Pacing: ★★★
Enjoyment: ★★★
Tenderfoot is the third book in Kristen Ashley's Avenging Angels series, which is in itself a spin-off of sorts from her wildly popular Rock Chicks series. I'm a huge Rock Chicks fan and highly recommend new readers start there, but if you want to jump right into the action with this spin-off series check out Avenging Angel here!
Harlow is a girl with iron-clad routines and a deep desire to be known and loved.
Javier is a man with a past raised on the streets and a deep desire for foundations and family.
When these two collided in Phoenix, Arizona, in some Angels' escapades through mutual friends involving stakeouts, hijinks, drama, and found family... sparks flew. And then they didn't. Javier backed up, and Harlow cracked in splinters.
But the Angels' drama waits for no one, not even Javier and Harlow's weird hang-ups, so when shit hits the fan and Harlow finds herself at the heart of the action, Javier is Right There. As in, interrupting-the-scene-and-laying-down-the-claim, Right There.
In typical KA fashion, things go from smoldering to blazing hot in the blink of an eye as this latest duo finds their feet in a tender romance amidst the fast-action plot.... Angels, action!
So I've got to start my feelings off with a small caveat: I'm a girl who loves her romantic angst, and I love a slower burn. This sometimes sets me off at cross-purposes with romance novels, because not everyone is here for those things. And that's valid! But given my personal tastes, when the romance kicks off too fast and too wholesome for me... I sometimes have a harder time engaging with the story.
I think that was the case with Harlow and Javier's romance.
Maybe it's because they were teased so heavily as a "will they, won't they" pairing. Maybe it's because I was hoping for more angst around Harlow's family dynamics and her internal dilemmas around that, not to mention Javier's intense backstory. I'm not quite sure, but the end result of my personal experience reading Tenderfoot was that, while I had a good time, I knew this particular journey was not fated to be an all-time favorite.
Again, this is a "me" thing. I'm still a KA mega fan, and I'm still enjoying this series. Sometimes, I find myself wishing for some of the more grounded plot lines of her Misted Pines series, I have to say—but I think that's also my personal preferences as I mature as a reader looking for more depth and plot to a lot of my stories. Not negatives, but I think worthwhile sidebars to this review as I know many of my fellow KA fans might need to understand where I'm coming from with this more lukewarm take on my usual hype train.
I think I also—for the first time—struggled more heavily with the sheer weight of how many characters, side characters, cameos, and additional people were constantly in the juggling pot to keep track of with reading their interjections and sidebars for so many of these scenes. This is likely due to the fact that I was not "in it" with Harlow and Javier to the level that I was for the other couples, so the other elements were more on the nose for me. But regardless, I found myself trying to catch a mental breather, trying to stay focused on the action when there were almost 15-20 people at any given time in a lot of the scenes, all saying dialogue bits and adding their personality flares.
However, all that to say, don't miss this latest installment in the series. Come for the OTT drama, stay for the OTT drama! And we'll get some more with what appears to be new romances on the horizon...
Thank you to the author for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
Blog | Instagram | Libro.fm Audiobooks
This latest installment of the Avenging Angels' series shares the story of Harlow and Javier—a romance teased since the first book that we've all been dyingggg to explore!—and the usual Charlie's Angels-esque shenanigans. Strap in for another good time!
Romance: ★★★★
Plot/Pacing: ★★★
Enjoyment: ★★★
Tenderfoot is the third book in Kristen Ashley's Avenging Angels series, which is in itself a spin-off of sorts from her wildly popular Rock Chicks series. I'm a huge Rock Chicks fan and highly recommend new readers start there, but if you want to jump right into the action with this spin-off series check out Avenging Angel here!
Harlow is a girl with iron-clad routines and a deep desire to be known and loved.
Javier is a man with a past raised on the streets and a deep desire for foundations and family.
When these two collided in Phoenix, Arizona, in some Angels' escapades through mutual friends involving stakeouts, hijinks, drama, and found family... sparks flew. And then they didn't. Javier backed up, and Harlow cracked in splinters.
But the Angels' drama waits for no one, not even Javier and Harlow's weird hang-ups, so when shit hits the fan and Harlow finds herself at the heart of the action, Javier is Right There. As in, interrupting-the-scene-and-laying-down-the-claim, Right There.
In typical KA fashion, things go from smoldering to blazing hot in the blink of an eye as this latest duo finds their feet in a tender romance amidst the fast-action plot.... Angels, action!
So I've got to start my feelings off with a small caveat: I'm a girl who loves her romantic angst, and I love a slower burn. This sometimes sets me off at cross-purposes with romance novels, because not everyone is here for those things. And that's valid! But given my personal tastes, when the romance kicks off too fast and too wholesome for me... I sometimes have a harder time engaging with the story.
I think that was the case with Harlow and Javier's romance.
Maybe it's because they were teased so heavily as a "will they, won't they" pairing. Maybe it's because I was hoping for more angst around Harlow's family dynamics and her internal dilemmas around that, not to mention Javier's intense backstory. I'm not quite sure, but the end result of my personal experience reading Tenderfoot was that, while I had a good time, I knew this particular journey was not fated to be an all-time favorite.
Again, this is a "me" thing. I'm still a KA mega fan, and I'm still enjoying this series. Sometimes, I find myself wishing for some of the more grounded plot lines of her Misted Pines series, I have to say—but I think that's also my personal preferences as I mature as a reader looking for more depth and plot to a lot of my stories. Not negatives, but I think worthwhile sidebars to this review as I know many of my fellow KA fans might need to understand where I'm coming from with this more lukewarm take on my usual hype train.
I think I also—for the first time—struggled more heavily with the sheer weight of how many characters, side characters, cameos, and additional people were constantly in the juggling pot to keep track of with reading their interjections and sidebars for so many of these scenes. This is likely due to the fact that I was not "in it" with Harlow and Javier to the level that I was for the other couples, so the other elements were more on the nose for me. But regardless, I found myself trying to catch a mental breather, trying to stay focused on the action when there were almost 15-20 people at any given time in a lot of the scenes, all saying dialogue bits and adding their personality flares.
However, all that to say, don't miss this latest installment in the series. Come for the OTT drama, stay for the OTT drama! And we'll get some more with what appears to be new romances on the horizon...
Thank you to the author for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
Blog | Instagram | Libro.fm Audiobooks
June 23, 2025
It's difficult to reconcile the Kristen Ashley who wrote this book with the Kristen Ashley who wrote "Wild Man," or "At Peace," or "Rock Chick Revolution." The two seem to be totally different people with totally different skill sets and who live in entirely different galaxies. Because I see very little of the formerly amazing author in this book.
Yes, the MMC is gorgeous, a sex god, has deep emotional damage, and otherwise fits a sorta "alpha for the New World" mode. I'm not entirely sure about that mold, but OK. And there's some kinda mystery to solve that involves bold, brash alpha dudes with a huge case of hero complex. But most of the comparisons stop right about there.
In this book, we have an FMC who is 30 but is really maybe 20 on her bestest best day. We don't know any more about her at the end of thisnstory than we did in the beginning, because she has no character arc at all. The MMC "solves" her family problems. We have a faint mystery that we're told about, but barely see. We are mostly dragged repeatedly through family drama that takes center stage at all times. There's a lot of door slamming, righteous speeches, extrapriveleged young men folk, and brittle, Freudian-filtered older women (over 40! oh my!) who litter this candy colored landscape with their mean selves. The messages here are pretty clear. If you are a middle-aged mom, you judge young women and are most likely bad. If you are a young guy who comes from money, you are definitely bad.
The "story" is a series of domestic scenes strung together by helpfully supplied text that lets us know a mystery is underway. There's no actual showing of the mystery, but we are told about it here and there. There's virtually no action outside of a handful of family altercations. Oh, there is the obligatory kidnapping at the literal end of the book. And per the normal template in this series, the two leads spend multiple nights together but don't actually do the deed until after the 55% point because of....reasons.
The first book in this series gave me hope. It wasn't fabulous, but it had some interesting characters and a lot of potential, and I enjoyed the read. I really hoped for strong female characters with alpha dudes, fast-paced action, seriously hot sex, and some intense relationships. That's just not what is here.
I hate being negative about KA. She has written some of my favorite books. I guess I'm just greedy, because I wanted this series to be as good as some of her previous ones. It's not. The female characters are 30, but are portrayed as 20. The mysteries are negligible at best. There's a whole lot of self righteous speechifying to semi-estranged family members. And this Angel thing gets more play than the actual story. Super cuteness has replaced an actual plot. I recall a numbrr of readers disliked how KA talked about clothes, shopping, and decor in her past series. I personally liked that. But that's been replaced with ruffles, personalized cocktails, mushrooms, and a tricked out STORAGE UNIT that serves as a headquarters for women who don't solve mysteries. Although in the last few pages the Angels solve the mystery of the bullying boss at a fast-food establishment, who they blackmail into being nicer.
I can't get a bead on which demographic KA is trying to hit with these recent series. And honestly, I wouldn't care if the writing was good, the characters strong and interesting, and the action exciting, the sex hot. I'm just not seeing it here. I was so hoping this book would be better than the last, but nope.
Yes, the MMC is gorgeous, a sex god, has deep emotional damage, and otherwise fits a sorta "alpha for the New World" mode. I'm not entirely sure about that mold, but OK. And there's some kinda mystery to solve that involves bold, brash alpha dudes with a huge case of hero complex. But most of the comparisons stop right about there.
In this book, we have an FMC who is 30 but is really maybe 20 on her bestest best day. We don't know any more about her at the end of thisnstory than we did in the beginning, because she has no character arc at all. The MMC "solves" her family problems. We have a faint mystery that we're told about, but barely see. We are mostly dragged repeatedly through family drama that takes center stage at all times. There's a lot of door slamming, righteous speeches, extrapriveleged young men folk, and brittle, Freudian-filtered older women (over 40! oh my!) who litter this candy colored landscape with their mean selves. The messages here are pretty clear. If you are a middle-aged mom, you judge young women and are most likely bad. If you are a young guy who comes from money, you are definitely bad.
The "story" is a series of domestic scenes strung together by helpfully supplied text that lets us know a mystery is underway. There's no actual showing of the mystery, but we are told about it here and there. There's virtually no action outside of a handful of family altercations. Oh, there is the obligatory kidnapping at the literal end of the book. And per the normal template in this series, the two leads spend multiple nights together but don't actually do the deed until after the 55% point because of....reasons.
The first book in this series gave me hope. It wasn't fabulous, but it had some interesting characters and a lot of potential, and I enjoyed the read. I really hoped for strong female characters with alpha dudes, fast-paced action, seriously hot sex, and some intense relationships. That's just not what is here.
I hate being negative about KA. She has written some of my favorite books. I guess I'm just greedy, because I wanted this series to be as good as some of her previous ones. It's not. The female characters are 30, but are portrayed as 20. The mysteries are negligible at best. There's a whole lot of self righteous speechifying to semi-estranged family members. And this Angel thing gets more play than the actual story. Super cuteness has replaced an actual plot. I recall a numbrr of readers disliked how KA talked about clothes, shopping, and decor in her past series. I personally liked that. But that's been replaced with ruffles, personalized cocktails, mushrooms, and a tricked out STORAGE UNIT that serves as a headquarters for women who don't solve mysteries. Although in the last few pages the Angels solve the mystery of the bullying boss at a fast-food establishment, who they blackmail into being nicer.
I can't get a bead on which demographic KA is trying to hit with these recent series. And honestly, I wouldn't care if the writing was good, the characters strong and interesting, and the action exciting, the sex hot. I'm just not seeing it here. I was so hoping this book would be better than the last, but nope.
June 27, 2025
I finished this story out of sheer willpower.
Let's be clear: I love the original Rock Chick series and their main characters, and I'm always excited when they appear in this series, but this time, even that wasn't enough.
Absolutely nothing happens in this book; it didn't evoke any emotions in me, and I rolled my eyes a few times at some parts and repetitions.
I love the older KA books, but this just isn't it anymore.
Let's be clear: I love the original Rock Chick series and their main characters, and I'm always excited when they appear in this series, but this time, even that wasn't enough.
Absolutely nothing happens in this book; it didn't evoke any emotions in me, and I rolled my eyes a few times at some parts and repetitions.
I love the older KA books, but this just isn't it anymore.
June 17, 2025
Safe! no ow/om drama no virgins no manwhore
he's celibate after meeting the h
But I'm so mad Knox has a girlfriend when he clearly feels something for Luna, I don't know if I can read their book
he's celibate after meeting the h
But I'm so mad Knox has a girlfriend when he clearly feels something for Luna, I don't know if I can read their book
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 26, 2025
Tenderfoot, book 3, in the Avenging Angels series was just the story I needed!
*Thank you to the author and her team for the complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own and given freely.
I was absolutely giddy reading this. It had everything I needed to bring me out of a reading slump, while also delivering on everything I love about a Kristen Ashley read:
-Protective alpha men, who you can't help but fall in love with
-A girly heroine who made me smile
-Fierce friendships
-Strong found family vibes
-Picturesque settings
-ALL THE FEELS
-Chemistry that ignites into heat with a side of dirty talk
-Sweet endearments
-Crime solving suspense
-Wit & Charm
-KA Character Cameo's
I don't want to touch on the plot, just dive in, but I will say- I truly loved both Javi and Harlow. Even if it was a little rocky at the start. They come from different worlds. Such opposites. She's the light, to his darkness. But they bring such support, comfort and healing to one another too that will draw you in. And he calls her lil' mama (among many other things) ya'll!!! CUE the swoon. And hot flashes too😉
There is so much about this book (and series) that feels very nostalgic, while also being fresh and new. So far the Angel's have had it much easier than the Chick's in my opinion, but how fun is it that we get to see them TOGETHER. I was giddy. And just full on smiling so often. I mean Tex- gosh he cracks me up. But there were pockets of heavy, and emotion too that brought tears to my eyes as well. This author weaves magic every time for me- I never want a story of hers to end. And I truly look forward to the next!! I'm so invested in these characters and the mention of others joining at the end here!!?! STOKED! I am ready!!!
*Thank you to the author and her team for the complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own and given freely.
I was absolutely giddy reading this. It had everything I needed to bring me out of a reading slump, while also delivering on everything I love about a Kristen Ashley read:
-Protective alpha men, who you can't help but fall in love with
-A girly heroine who made me smile
-Fierce friendships
-Strong found family vibes
-Picturesque settings
-ALL THE FEELS
-Chemistry that ignites into heat with a side of dirty talk
-Sweet endearments
-Crime solving suspense
-Wit & Charm
-KA Character Cameo's
I don't want to touch on the plot, just dive in, but I will say- I truly loved both Javi and Harlow. Even if it was a little rocky at the start. They come from different worlds. Such opposites. She's the light, to his darkness. But they bring such support, comfort and healing to one another too that will draw you in. And he calls her lil' mama (among many other things) ya'll!!! CUE the swoon. And hot flashes too😉
There is so much about this book (and series) that feels very nostalgic, while also being fresh and new. So far the Angel's have had it much easier than the Chick's in my opinion, but how fun is it that we get to see them TOGETHER. I was giddy. And just full on smiling so often. I mean Tex- gosh he cracks me up. But there were pockets of heavy, and emotion too that brought tears to my eyes as well. This author weaves magic every time for me- I never want a story of hers to end. And I truly look forward to the next!! I'm so invested in these characters and the mention of others joining at the end here!!?! STOKED! I am ready!!!
July 8, 2025
Could have been much better.
There was not a hint of the KA magic, that made the OG RC books enjoyable, found here. The characters lacked depth and the storyline fell flat. Cameos and outdated cringy phrases, like totally righteous and rad, have become tiresome. Also, enough of the lecturing and preachy BS. The immaturity of these 30 something year old female characters was extremely annoying.
There was not a hint of the KA magic, that made the OG RC books enjoyable, found here. The characters lacked depth and the storyline fell flat. Cameos and outdated cringy phrases, like totally righteous and rad, have become tiresome. Also, enough of the lecturing and preachy BS. The immaturity of these 30 something year old female characters was extremely annoying.
May 31, 2025
I’ve never been happier to receive an ARC! I love KA books because she writes badass alphas,BUT her FMC are THE BEST!!!!!!
My girl Harlow STOOD ON BUSINESS FOR HER MAN!!! She had his back and she even sprinkled a few curse words 😜
This whole crew of characters and there is a LOT of them just mean so much to me. I feel in love with the rock chicks back in my freshmen dorm room in 2012 and have not looked back since. Will be forever obsessed with the stories she weaves and the unique style!
“Don’t ever mention quid pro quo again, Harlow,” he stated and pointed at the door. “You give me more than I could ever give you.”
Javi was no joke. Ladies and gents, THIS MAN😮💨
“you need me, no matter what I’m doing, call me. I’ll find my way to you,” Javi declared.
My girl Harlow STOOD ON BUSINESS FOR HER MAN!!! She had his back and she even sprinkled a few curse words 😜
This whole crew of characters and there is a LOT of them just mean so much to me. I feel in love with the rock chicks back in my freshmen dorm room in 2012 and have not looked back since. Will be forever obsessed with the stories she weaves and the unique style!
“Don’t ever mention quid pro quo again, Harlow,” he stated and pointed at the door. “You give me more than I could ever give you.”
Javi was no joke. Ladies and gents, THIS MAN😮💨
“you need me, no matter what I’m doing, call me. I’ll find my way to you,” Javi declared.
June 16, 2025
..."Javier Montoya is as solid as they come."
Cards on the table
Mine play out like fools in a fable, oh
It was sinking in (sinking in, oh)
Slow is the quicksand
Poison blood from the wound of the pricked hand
Oh, still I dream of him
Javier "Javi" Montoya and Harlow O'Neill have been circling each other. They know and others know there are sparks between them until Javi lays it out leaving Harlow wounded BUT Javi is quick on his feet so there's that. As things progress in their story with Harlow's adventures being an Angel and taking on a new case, Javi and Harlow's family dynamics(which is sad), Tex, pop up of Rock Chicks and The Hot Bunch, friends and colleagues antics and banter, make Tenderfoot one of THE best Avenging Angels so far.
When you came my way
(Came my way)
You brightened every day
With your sweet smile
Now.
"I wanted you to pursue me."
I love how Javi and Harlow communicate. Either with words or touch, they just get one another. They have each others backs and have no issue speaking words on those who hurt either one.
"You're just like...walking sunshine. My life was dark, Harlow, in a way you will never get. And you're sunshine."
Cards on the table
Mine play out like fools in a fable, oh
It was sinking in (sinking in, oh)
Slow is the quicksand
Poison blood from the wound of the pricked hand
Oh, still I dream of him
Javier "Javi" Montoya and Harlow O'Neill have been circling each other. They know and others know there are sparks between them until Javi lays it out leaving Harlow wounded BUT Javi is quick on his feet so there's that. As things progress in their story with Harlow's adventures being an Angel and taking on a new case, Javi and Harlow's family dynamics(which is sad), Tex, pop up of Rock Chicks and The Hot Bunch, friends and colleagues antics and banter, make Tenderfoot one of THE best Avenging Angels so far.
When you came my way
(Came my way)
You brightened every day
With your sweet smile
Now.
"I wanted you to pursue me."
I love how Javi and Harlow communicate. Either with words or touch, they just get one another. They have each others backs and have no issue speaking words on those who hurt either one.
"You're just like...walking sunshine. My life was dark, Harlow, in a way you will never get. And you're sunshine."
June 21, 2025
I’ve just binged all the Avenging Angels books. Let’s preface this by saying I absolutely love & adore the Rock Chick series. It’s my comfort series. I’ve read all the books like 8+ times.
But… I’m struggling with the Avenging Angels books. I’m bored. They are boring. It doesn’t have the same thrill as the first. It could be that the blatant recycling of tropes, the constant cameos from the OG series & constant references just don’t make the Avenging Angels seem like its own book. It just makes it seem like an extension of the Rock Chick series. But like a knock off Walmart version. The crossovers are overkill. I simply cannot anymore & this is me who absolutely loves the Rock Chick series. But the OG characters need to stay in their own books & stop infiltrating the Angel series. I thought the same about the Dream Team books too. This is why I put off starting this series for so long. I was scared this would happen & *sighs* I was right.
With the third book I thought it might grow on me but I still with all my heart hate the concept of the Avenging Angels it’s so beyond cringe. I always skim read all the Angel business. I simply can’t accept how these girls.. these civilians with ZERO training are allowed to run loose on the streets solving crime.
I can’t fathom how the Hottie Squad just accept that their woman are untrained doing this. The Hot Bunch would never.
Jules “the Law” is the only acceptable street vigilante because she had TRAINING. The Angels don’t. So every time they say they have a case, a mission, any time they reference the mysterious Arthur being Charlie & Clarice being Bosley it just makes me cringe. They have no training to be doing any of this. And I simply cannot overlook it no matter how hard I try.
What I enjoyed about the Rock Chicks is that they accidentally got themselves in messes that went south fast, not because they had laughable missions or cases to solve. Trouble found the Rock Chicks. The Angels find trouble they have no business getting into.
What I also hate is how much Angels there now is. Why have 2 new ones been added? I’ve barely got my head around the other 2 new ones Shanti & Willow. It’s too much. The dream team was 4 books. 8 on this knock off Rock Chicks is overkill.
In terms of the romance with Javi and Harlow. Like the first two books the lack of relationship drama made this book boring. Again I didn’t like how fast Javi and Harlow got together with barely any conflict. It bothered me greatly how quick Harlow forgave Javi. He deserved to be iced out for a few months even more for the shit he said to her at the start. The generalisations he made. He deserved to wallow in his guilt for more than the measley less than 8 hours it took for them to resolve that. That drama was over way too soon.
Though to be fair after learning about Javi’s back story. I got why he said what he did & understood why Harlow forgave him so fast. I still wished he stewed & suffered longer. Harlow was way too forgiving.
I’m interested in reading Knox & Luna. Though the reason why they are not going there being Luna is besties with Raye & Knox besties with Cap is SOO dumb. That’s the entire point the Angels and Hottie Squad merging.
The revelation at the end of this story that that Knox is dating another woman pissed me off. At least Javi didn’t touch another woman when he met Harlow & they has their months of circling each other. But I am not going to lie I am now more invested in that drama because of it. I’m affronted for Luna and this is the first thing that has made me invested in Luna and Knox.
Gabe and Willow seem interesting. But we have nothing much on them yet as it’s still new. They’re circling each other too.
Not going to lie between Willow & Luna - I’m more invested in Willow’s trauma of a shitty ex whose burned her & that’s why she’s hesitant to get into new relationships and is avoiding Gabe like the plague then I am in Luna’s trauma simply being a deadbeat sister & her not warning to go there with Knox because he’s her besties’s man’s best friend. So dumb.
Though apparently KA did hint Knox has other reasons why he isn’t going there with Luna so there is also that.
Overall even though I hate the concept of the Avenging Angels I will still likely be reading the Luna & Willow’s books.
I also wonder who the rest of the pairings are.
Lowkey though I’m slightly annoyed that Liam and Roam the two black characters aren’t getting paired with any Angels yet. Especially if there are two new editions in the Hottie Squad too. Why is there currently no focus on Liam and Roam who are the actual OG Hottie Squads!! More time should be spent developing them as leads for the next books. The only reason I can think of is because they are black. KA has a history of only ever giving her black side characters novellas. They are never mains. I absolutely love KA’s books but this has always been a pet peeve about KA for me.
I’m feeling oddly protective of the OGs being the only two black characters who haven’t been given any spotlight or Angel pairings despite being OGs.
If KA doesn’t go there with them I am going to be peeved x
But… I’m struggling with the Avenging Angels books. I’m bored. They are boring. It doesn’t have the same thrill as the first. It could be that the blatant recycling of tropes, the constant cameos from the OG series & constant references just don’t make the Avenging Angels seem like its own book. It just makes it seem like an extension of the Rock Chick series. But like a knock off Walmart version. The crossovers are overkill. I simply cannot anymore & this is me who absolutely loves the Rock Chick series. But the OG characters need to stay in their own books & stop infiltrating the Angel series. I thought the same about the Dream Team books too. This is why I put off starting this series for so long. I was scared this would happen & *sighs* I was right.
With the third book I thought it might grow on me but I still with all my heart hate the concept of the Avenging Angels it’s so beyond cringe. I always skim read all the Angel business. I simply can’t accept how these girls.. these civilians with ZERO training are allowed to run loose on the streets solving crime.
I can’t fathom how the Hottie Squad just accept that their woman are untrained doing this. The Hot Bunch would never.
Jules “the Law” is the only acceptable street vigilante because she had TRAINING. The Angels don’t. So every time they say they have a case, a mission, any time they reference the mysterious Arthur being Charlie & Clarice being Bosley it just makes me cringe. They have no training to be doing any of this. And I simply cannot overlook it no matter how hard I try.
What I enjoyed about the Rock Chicks is that they accidentally got themselves in messes that went south fast, not because they had laughable missions or cases to solve. Trouble found the Rock Chicks. The Angels find trouble they have no business getting into.
What I also hate is how much Angels there now is. Why have 2 new ones been added? I’ve barely got my head around the other 2 new ones Shanti & Willow. It’s too much. The dream team was 4 books. 8 on this knock off Rock Chicks is overkill.
In terms of the romance with Javi and Harlow. Like the first two books the lack of relationship drama made this book boring. Again I didn’t like how fast Javi and Harlow got together with barely any conflict. It bothered me greatly how quick Harlow forgave Javi. He deserved to be iced out for a few months even more for the shit he said to her at the start. The generalisations he made. He deserved to wallow in his guilt for more than the measley less than 8 hours it took for them to resolve that. That drama was over way too soon.
Though to be fair after learning about Javi’s back story. I got why he said what he did & understood why Harlow forgave him so fast. I still wished he stewed & suffered longer. Harlow was way too forgiving.
I’m interested in reading Knox & Luna. Though the reason why they are not going there being Luna is besties with Raye & Knox besties with Cap is SOO dumb. That’s the entire point the Angels and Hottie Squad merging.
The revelation at the end of this story that that Knox is dating another woman pissed me off. At least Javi didn’t touch another woman when he met Harlow & they has their months of circling each other. But I am not going to lie I am now more invested in that drama because of it. I’m affronted for Luna and this is the first thing that has made me invested in Luna and Knox.
Gabe and Willow seem interesting. But we have nothing much on them yet as it’s still new. They’re circling each other too.
Not going to lie between Willow & Luna - I’m more invested in Willow’s trauma of a shitty ex whose burned her & that’s why she’s hesitant to get into new relationships and is avoiding Gabe like the plague then I am in Luna’s trauma simply being a deadbeat sister & her not warning to go there with Knox because he’s her besties’s man’s best friend. So dumb.
Though apparently KA did hint Knox has other reasons why he isn’t going there with Luna so there is also that.
Overall even though I hate the concept of the Avenging Angels I will still likely be reading the Luna & Willow’s books.
I also wonder who the rest of the pairings are.
Lowkey though I’m slightly annoyed that Liam and Roam the two black characters aren’t getting paired with any Angels yet. Especially if there are two new editions in the Hottie Squad too. Why is there currently no focus on Liam and Roam who are the actual OG Hottie Squads!! More time should be spent developing them as leads for the next books. The only reason I can think of is because they are black. KA has a history of only ever giving her black side characters novellas. They are never mains. I absolutely love KA’s books but this has always been a pet peeve about KA for me.
I’m feeling oddly protective of the OGs being the only two black characters who haven’t been given any spotlight or Angel pairings despite being OGs.
If KA doesn’t go there with them I am going to be peeved x
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2025
This one is my favorite so far. 🙌🏼🥰
June 23, 2025
I’ve been a Kristen Ashley fan for years, and I’ll always pick up her books because she’s just a solid writer. Tenderfoot was just okay. It was something to pass the time, but honestly it didn’t really pull me in like her other books have. (I've re-read her books so many times).
This Avenging Angels series is starting to feel like a Rock Chick repeat. There’s nothing fresh or exciting to really keep my interest. At times, the book just felt crowded, too many people, too much talking, too many cameos, and it kind of lost its focus because of that.
The romance between Harlow and Javi didn’t help much either. It felt like a relationship I’ve already read before in her past books. There was nothing new about their connection, and I had a hard time getting invested in them. I actually struggled to finish this one, which is rare for me with a Kristen Ashley book.
I’m still a fan and I’ll keep reading her stuff, but I don’t know if I’ll stick with this series unless something really changes.
This Avenging Angels series is starting to feel like a Rock Chick repeat. There’s nothing fresh or exciting to really keep my interest. At times, the book just felt crowded, too many people, too much talking, too many cameos, and it kind of lost its focus because of that.
The romance between Harlow and Javi didn’t help much either. It felt like a relationship I’ve already read before in her past books. There was nothing new about their connection, and I had a hard time getting invested in them. I actually struggled to finish this one, which is rare for me with a Kristen Ashley book.
I’m still a fan and I’ll keep reading her stuff, but I don’t know if I’ll stick with this series unless something really changes.
June 20, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up. There’s something about this KA series that is just so damn special. And with the way the books keep ending, it’s clear KA feels the same and has no intention of ending the Avenging Angels books any time soon. I was definitely intrigued by Harlow and Javier’s burgeoning will they won’t they vibe from the last book, and Tenderfoot starts out kind of like the other books in this series… essentially with an explosion of emotions between the leads. Harlow and Javi are total opposites attract, but their relationship is also really sweet. Javi is very much a KA alpha male and Harlow is very much a girly KA heroine, down to the giggle. Given their back stories, there are definitely some emotional moments, but this feels a little lighter compared to the previous 2 books (the last one truly gutted me). The crime also feels a little lower stakes, which did not detract at all from my interest. It’s nice that she’s mixing it up. All in all, I love this series. I finish each book excited to read the next (especially given all of the little carrots KA dangles). These books just hit exactly how I want them to. Thank you so much to Kristen and her team for the complimentary copy!
July 30, 2025
Loved it the first time, loved it even more the second...the audiobook was fantastic!
June 9, 2025
Copy received from author's team for an honest review
It's been a while since I have been reading a lot of Kristen Ashley, therefore I haven't read the first two books in the Avenging Angels series (and therefore, bad chicklet that I am, did not know they are a Rock Chick spin off series)
I mean, Rock Chicks meet Charlie's Angels? Yes please!
Reading Tenderfoot was like falling back into conversation with friends you haven't seen in a long time. You know what you are going to get with a KA book - strong women who don't need a man's help, a big bad hottie who will drive the woman insane - but we all know that they are head over high heels for each other.
And the way Harlow stood up to people for Javi - go woman!
Harlow and Javi's story had me hooked right from the start. A la Rock Chicks, the women get themselves involved in things, the hottie brigade try to stop them, fights ensue, followed by making out hahaha.
Add in my man Tex and you have a book I can't put down.
I absolutely loved that we saw some of the Rock Chicks and their guys in this book - I am hoping when I go back and read the first two books (and I have already bought them ha!) that we get more of the OGs.
I also liked that it looks like we will get more of the Angels in the future, as like the Rock Chick series, I was left wanting more. Please give us more, Miss Ashley!
It's been a while since I have been reading a lot of Kristen Ashley, therefore I haven't read the first two books in the Avenging Angels series (and therefore, bad chicklet that I am, did not know they are a Rock Chick spin off series)
I mean, Rock Chicks meet Charlie's Angels? Yes please!
Reading Tenderfoot was like falling back into conversation with friends you haven't seen in a long time. You know what you are going to get with a KA book - strong women who don't need a man's help, a big bad hottie who will drive the woman insane - but we all know that they are head over high heels for each other.
And the way Harlow stood up to people for Javi - go woman!
Harlow and Javi's story had me hooked right from the start. A la Rock Chicks, the women get themselves involved in things, the hottie brigade try to stop them, fights ensue, followed by making out hahaha.
Add in my man Tex and you have a book I can't put down.
I absolutely loved that we saw some of the Rock Chicks and their guys in this book - I am hoping when I go back and read the first two books (and I have already bought them ha!) that we get more of the OGs.
I also liked that it looks like we will get more of the Angels in the future, as like the Rock Chick series, I was left wanting more. Please give us more, Miss Ashley!
June 17, 2025
This book! I am obsessed! I loved everything about Harlow and Javi. I loved watching them circle each other and come together, and the development as their layers were peeled back. I adore this world and found family, how the Angels and Hottie Squad have each other's backs and the bonds they share. There were so many special relationships and they made my heart feel full. There was drama and emotion and heat… all these stellar moments that made my belly flip. The entertainment value was off the charts! Avenging Angel: Tenderfoot is officially a favorite!
Harlow and Javi were amazing! I loved learning about them and their lives, I hurt for Harlow and the strained relationship she had with her family, and my heart broke for Javi about his upbringing, some of it gutted me. I loved their walls coming down and them connecting and how they were there for one another with the drama coming at them, and the growth they experienced, it was emotion-filled. Harlow was kick-butt in her own right and I loved seeing that strength from her. Together, Javi and Harlow had off-the-charts chemistry with playful flirting and banter that built into an undeniable passion that I couldn’t get enough of. There were so many great moments between them and I felt every single one. Harlow was sunshiny positive that was a ray of light to Javi's dark. He was a totally protective alpha, and I was there for it.
The Angels were the best! I adored getting more of their personalities and seeing potential pairings with the Hottie Squad. I’m eager for what’s to come. I really liked the mission the women were on, finding clues, and going up against the Hottie Squad, who were determined to keep them safe. I loved getting more from Tex, he always brings the goodness that makes me smile. Add in Tito, Shirleen, surprise visits from others, a few new characters, and I was beyond thrilled with everything that was happening. I was excited to see some new Angels and Hotties being introduced. I was ecstatic to see one in particular (Chaos fans are going to be thrilled). It was all awesome!
This is one of those times that real life got in the way of my reading fun and I did not like having to adult. This was seriously entertaining and exciting, and I loved it all. I am madly in love with the Avenging Angels series, but this one holds a special place in my heart!
Complimentary copy received.
Harlow and Javi were amazing! I loved learning about them and their lives, I hurt for Harlow and the strained relationship she had with her family, and my heart broke for Javi about his upbringing, some of it gutted me. I loved their walls coming down and them connecting and how they were there for one another with the drama coming at them, and the growth they experienced, it was emotion-filled. Harlow was kick-butt in her own right and I loved seeing that strength from her. Together, Javi and Harlow had off-the-charts chemistry with playful flirting and banter that built into an undeniable passion that I couldn’t get enough of. There were so many great moments between them and I felt every single one. Harlow was sunshiny positive that was a ray of light to Javi's dark. He was a totally protective alpha, and I was there for it.
The Angels were the best! I adored getting more of their personalities and seeing potential pairings with the Hottie Squad. I’m eager for what’s to come. I really liked the mission the women were on, finding clues, and going up against the Hottie Squad, who were determined to keep them safe. I loved getting more from Tex, he always brings the goodness that makes me smile. Add in Tito, Shirleen, surprise visits from others, a few new characters, and I was beyond thrilled with everything that was happening. I was excited to see some new Angels and Hotties being introduced. I was ecstatic to see one in particular (Chaos fans are going to be thrilled). It was all awesome!
This is one of those times that real life got in the way of my reading fun and I did not like having to adult. This was seriously entertaining and exciting, and I loved it all. I am madly in love with the Avenging Angels series, but this one holds a special place in my heart!
Complimentary copy received.
June 24, 2025
This was the best KA book I’ve read in years. I missed this feeling of being in love with her characters.
More of this, please!
More of this, please!
October 15, 2025
Omg. I'm 39% in, and can we stop repeating the same stuff over and over and over and over. Nothing happens - crime solving or relationship wise. And Javi doesn't do it for me how he's acting, and Harlow is supposedly a big girl who knows the world and doesn't want to be treated as a child, but c'moooooooooooon. And can we get over the cliché that if we sleep together/ make out on a first date the woman is a slut or she thinks that he thinks that she is a slut. If we are all so empowered women then why this weird thing keeps coming up. Plus if a man thinks that then he has to feel same bad feelings about himself also cause he did it also ... or smth, my brain melted and I hated it. This series hasn't been my fave - the main concept of Angels feels off - but this books feels extra not there, I don't feel the relationship growing, the shitty stuff is prushed off cause he's said to be amazing and supposedly both of their backstories are shit but who knows, the stories have been only alluded to as bad not really shown (especially it's bothering me about her family stuff). It feels like nobody can't have a happy life to be in these books. Like reality shows want the participants to have a sob story.
58% - Still very little happening, but they are watching each other with big meaningful eyes .... or smth, maybe I'm not in the right head space to read this.
60% - Is it a trope or cliché but no condoms, swallowing for "the one", c'mon please stop! .... I know I should quit and try reading this book some other time again, but I won't, somebody needs to read the one stars also.
71% - old Rock Chick crew just showed up, no idea what's gonna happen and if there's more action coming my way but my first thought was that it just feels so lazy to rely on characters from old books that we all love. Already kinda felt it when Tex, etc, showed up to be permanent. Ps. Storywise nothing and I mean NOTHING has happened.
75% - oookay .... come to Jesus with Javi's dad and sisters. The beginning feels very promising.
85% - he has grandparents who idolise him but he lived years on the streets?!?!!!! And they have never ever met before?!?!!!
88% - C'MOOOOOON, that's not solving a case.
93% - and just adding new characters into the mix even while I really don't know or love the old ones much yet. Why?
94% - oh and by the way we solved few more cases .... with blackmail. Who's throwing money at such pointless "detectives". WHY?!?!?!!!
95% - all the family drama, both sides, kinda just ended, got sorta ok, died down ... I dont know ... like ... what.
96% - more new people out of nowhere, just letting you know there's more girls and boys who can hook up. Nothing natural about bringing them in during a story or smth. Just like reading authors plans for the future.
100% - yeah, Angels aren't really tugging my heartstrings. This book, relationship, case didn't hook at all. Will I be reading the next one? Yes, cause I am a sucker.
58% - Still very little happening, but they are watching each other with big meaningful eyes .... or smth, maybe I'm not in the right head space to read this.
60% - Is it a trope or cliché but no condoms, swallowing for "the one", c'mon please stop! .... I know I should quit and try reading this book some other time again, but I won't, somebody needs to read the one stars also.
71% - old Rock Chick crew just showed up, no idea what's gonna happen and if there's more action coming my way but my first thought was that it just feels so lazy to rely on characters from old books that we all love. Already kinda felt it when Tex, etc, showed up to be permanent. Ps. Storywise nothing and I mean NOTHING has happened.
75% - oookay .... come to Jesus with Javi's dad and sisters. The beginning feels very promising.
85% - he has grandparents who idolise him but he lived years on the streets?!?!!!! And they have never ever met before?!?!!!
88% - C'MOOOOOON, that's not solving a case.
93% - and just adding new characters into the mix even while I really don't know or love the old ones much yet. Why?
94% - oh and by the way we solved few more cases .... with blackmail. Who's throwing money at such pointless "detectives". WHY?!?!?!!!
95% - all the family drama, both sides, kinda just ended, got sorta ok, died down ... I dont know ... like ... what.
96% - more new people out of nowhere, just letting you know there's more girls and boys who can hook up. Nothing natural about bringing them in during a story or smth. Just like reading authors plans for the future.
100% - yeah, Angels aren't really tugging my heartstrings. This book, relationship, case didn't hook at all. Will I be reading the next one? Yes, cause I am a sucker.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 18, 2025
3.5
Not enough grovel from H
Not enough grovel from H
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 20, 2025
Sorry KA this was just ok. I got bored about halfway thru.
July 15, 2025
I used to really love Ashley's books - they had kick ass heroines, great story lines, perfect steam...they were amazing.
Now they are simply copy and paste, the same story told over and over with the same people. Very disappointing.
Now they are simply copy and paste, the same story told over and over with the same people. Very disappointing.
July 16, 2025
Aw yeah, KA is back! This book was everything that books one and two should have been but weren't. Loved Javi! 5 stars
June 26, 2025
Avenging Angels: Tenderfoot by Kristen Ashley Book Review
Third in the Avenging Angels Series. RomCom, Action.
Complimentary copy recieved for review. My reviews are ALWAYS honest, and advertising or the affilate links below do not influence my reviews.
I am so in love with this series. If you loved the OG Rock Chicks, you will absolutely love the Avenging Angels series, and especially the newest installment, Avenging Angels: Tenderfoot by Kristen Ashley . It’s Rock Chicks meets Charlie’s Angels, and I am so here for it. There are great friend groups that feel like one big family, a wonderful sisterhood, whirlwind romances where he’s protecting her, and exciting, dangerous mystery and suspense. It’s all wrapped up in a campy, fun bow that never takes itself too seriously and isn’t afraid to poke fun at the fast-moving romance.
I love that Kristen ties the Rock Chick books into the storyline and brings back so many of my favorite characters (TEX!). Some have even moved to Arizona.
“I looked toward the coffee cubby only to gasp, because Indy (Rock Chick book one), Ally (book eight), Roxie (book three) and Roxie’s bestie, Annette (no book, but she featured hilariously through most of the others) came strolling in. We’d intermingled, not copiously, but we all went up to Denver for New Year’s. It had been a total blast. Nothing pulled a long-distance girl gang together better than cocktail attire, cocktails and lots of lip syncing.”
Javi and Harlow were so great together. In Avenging Angels: Tenderfoot, Harlow had been crushing on Javi for a while. She thought he might feel the same but he never made a move. When he finally did, he was your typical KA alphahole at first and said some not-so-nice things to Harlow.
“Now I gotta work to fix it, and I’m gonna do that, mi pequeña Lolita. I promise.”
From that moment on, he worked his ass off to win her over and make it real. As the Angel’s case becomes dangerous and bodies start dropping, the hottie squad steps in to assist. But I love that in this series they truly assist, not take over. They all work great together.
Harlow and Javi come from opposite backgrounds, but both are emotional in their own ways. Javi’s story was absolutely heartbreaking.
“You’re just like”—he threw his hand up in front of him to indicate me—“walking sunshine. My life was dark, Harlow, in a way you will never get. And you’re sunshine.”
Each chapter started with a song. Harlow is a girly-girl and loves Taylor Swift, but there was a nice variety of music that helped set the tone for each chapter. I played every song and looked up the lyrics as I read. I love how Kristen always weaves music into her stories.
There’s also a HUGE cast of characters. In most of Kristen’s recent books, I’ve found that too many secondary characters can get overwhelming. But in this series, many of the characters are familiar faces from the Rock Chick series, so it felt manageable. Kristen even included a character guide at the end, and I LOVED having that.
“I’ll find my way to you.”
The Avenging Angels series is everything I fell in love with in Kristen Ashley’s books all over again — fun, sexy, nostalgic, and packed with heart-stealing characters both old and new.
Likes:
•Nostalgic fun.
•The perfect balance of campy fun, sexy romance, girl friendships, and suspense.
•It just feels like one big party. I want to live at the Oasis with everyone.
•I loved every character.
•Visits from the OG Rock Chicks.
•The Angels and the Hottie Squad worked well together.
•They are both in their early thirties.
•It had everything I originally fell in love with in Kristen Ashley’s books 14 years ago.
•As always, I loved the FMC, who is a total girly-girl but still a capable adult.
Dislikes:
•I wish we, as readers, were part of more of her family events instead of being told about them after the fact.
•I didn’t like the Lolita nickname. I’ve always see Lolita as something negative.
The Down & Dirty:
Avenging Angels: Tenderfoot by Kristen Ashley is another great addition to the Avenging Angels series. I love how this series brings together everything I originally fell in love with in Kristen Ashley’s books. It’s nostalgic, campy, fun, sexy, romantic, and suspenseful, filled with characters I’ve loved for years and new ones I’m falling for. Javi and Harlow were a great couple to follow, and I’m already excited for what’s coming next. I recommend starting at the beginning of the Avenging Angels series, or even better, at the beginning of the Rock Chick series.
Rating: 5 Stars, 2.5 Heat
Purchase Avenging Angels: Tenderfoot
Kindle | Paperback | Audible
See my review for Avenging Angel
See my review for Avenging Angel: Back in the Saddle
Avenging Angels: Bad Medicine releases 12/16/25
See my Complete Guide to Kristen Ashley
July 26, 2025
3.5 Stars
Javi and Harlow
Not as good as the first 2 books. Didn’t really love the Angel’s case in this one.
I liked both MC’s.
A lot of the Rock Chicks show up here. Since this series is Rock Chicks 2.0 edition, I’d prefer KA kept them separate. It’s one thing to mention the characters names and THE BOOKS (good Lord the books) but then to add them into the story is another. A new reader will be overwhelmed and confused as hell.
Javi and Harlow
Not as good as the first 2 books. Didn’t really love the Angel’s case in this one.
I liked both MC’s.
A lot of the Rock Chicks show up here. Since this series is Rock Chicks 2.0 edition, I’d prefer KA kept them separate. It’s one thing to mention the characters names and THE BOOKS (good Lord the books) but then to add them into the story is another. A new reader will be overwhelmed and confused as hell.
June 20, 2025
I shouldn’t feel secondhand embarrassment while reading, should I? I truly hate the term “cringe” but it fits this book so perfectly… the song references, the decor, the outfits, the slang, (“you’re boss”) was painful to read. I could see this being a hit with older women, but I just couldn’t get into it.
June 19, 2025
4.5 stars rounded up
June 20, 2025
3.5 stars
Read
June 28, 2025Ridiculous (I say this with love) but fun
June 30, 2025
Tenderfoot delivers all the signature Kristen Ashley elements with deep emotion, complex characters, and a setting that feels like home. The romance is heartfelt, with a slow-burn tenderness that’s both comforting and passionate. The protagonist’s journey of self-discovery and healing shines, and the emotional beats hit with sincerity. There were a few pacing dips that made the middle feel slightly stretched, but overall, it’s a beautiful exploration of love, CHOSEN FAMILY, and the quiet strength that comes from facing life head-on. A warmly emotional read with emotionally damaged characters from very different backgrounds finding love.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 206 reviews