Ethan

Ghost Ops #5

by Lynn Raye Harris

Dead to their pasts. Ghosts. No family ties. No connections. Six men with a top-secret mission move to a small town where they have to navigate local life, protect their secret, and, above all, stay single.

Ethan "Dragon" Snow has spent five years trying to forget the woman who got away. When Paisley Allen walks into Sutton's Creek as the new head librarian, he's stunned—and even more shocked when he meets her four-year-old daughter. He could be wrong, but does the little girl have his eyes?

Paisley fled Florida to escape her abusive husband, a disgraced former Hostile Operations Team soldier with a dangerous obsession. She’s found the perfect place to start a new life far from her ex—until she runs into a ghost from her past.

The last thing she wants is help from Ethan, the man who walked away without a word when she needed him most. But when her ex tracks them to Sutton's Creek, she has no choice.

Ethan isn't supposed to get involved. His cover, his team, his mission—everything depends on staying away from Paisley. But how can he walk away from the woman he never forgot and the daughter who might be his?

First, he'll have to convince Paisley to trust him—and prove he won't abandon her ever again. Because he finally has a chance to be the man he’s always wanted to be—and to claim the family that should have been his.

A small town, second chance, secret baby, military protector romance from NYT bestselling author Lynn Raye Harris.

Genres: Romantic Suspense, Military Fiction, Second Chance, Romance, Military Romance, Suspense, Abuse

348 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 28, 2025

About the author

Lynn Raye Harris is a New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of sizzling military romantic suspense novels and contemporary romance novels. She lives in Alabama with her husband (former military), her cat, and her American Saddlebred horse.

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Reviews

[Eileen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ethan by Lynn Raye Harris, book five in the Ghost Ops series, is an emotional, friendships, small town, second chance, escape, suspense, intrigue, single mom, military protector romance, a roller coaster of emotions and secrets, making it the perfect mixture of romance, action, and suspense; keeping me on the edge of my seat. Beware: domestic abuse is mentioned within this story.

Five years ago while away from HOT headquarters, Ethan and Paisley met and were instantaneously attracted to each other. During the short time they spent together, the attraction grew, leading to a possibility of forever. When Ethan is sent on a mission, with no time to tell Paisley he asks a fellow HOT member, Trey, to tell her he will be back for her. Unfortunately for both Ethan and Paisley, Trey was a manipulative jerk with his own agenda and betrayed Ethan by telling Paisley that Ethan left and didn’t want a future with her. When Ethan tried to reconnect with Paisley, he was told she found someone else and blocked him on her phone.

Fast forward to today and Paisley, the new librarian in town, with her adorable 4 year old daughter, Violet, is adopted by the Ghost Ops ladies. Entering the bar with the ladies, Paisley is shocked when she sees Ethan. Ethan doesn’t know how to handle this situation; especially after being told she didn’t want to be with him anymore. As these two reconnect they learn about the mistake in choosing the wrong person to deliver his message and the manipulation of the situation Trey managed. He discovers that Paisley had been through the wringer with her abusive former husband and after escaping his control, is now in hiding, with a protective order. That’s all Ethan needed to hear to step up and protect Paisley and Violet. One thing was definitely evident; the love these two shared five years ago still exists, continuing to grow each day. Ethan is in protective mode; caring not just about Paisley but also Violet as if she is his own, even if she might not be. When danger arrives from a foe they know all too well, Ethan and the One Shot Tactical guys will do whatever it takes to save the day.

Ms. Harris does an amazing job at weaving the high-stakes tension with the protection and nurturing of a romance between Ethan and Paisley. This is not only a story about second chances but about fighting for what is right. The bond and friendship with the entire Ghost Ops team is entertaining and their women fit right in. If you love military protector romances, strong-willed heroines, and emotionally complex heroes, you won't be able to put this book down. I can’t wait for the wrap up on this mission and finally Ghost/Alex’s story.

I voluntarily reviewed a complimentary copy of this book.
#Ethan #LynnRayeHarris #GhostOps #HOT

[Jenny · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ethan is book five in the Ghost Ops series by Lynn Raye Harris. Ethan "Dragon" Snow has seen other friends fall for local ladies. Still, he never believed he would until he saw the love of his life, Paisley Allen, the new librarian, come through the door of Dawg with his friends' partners. However, due to the way they broke up, he tried to keep away from her until he found out that someone wanted to hurt her, and his protective nature came through, and he had to keep her safe. The readers of Ethan will continue to follow Paisley and Ethan to discover what happens.

After reading the first book in this series, I had to read this book straight away, and I was pleased I did. It continues my engagement with this series. I preordered this book to ensure I could continue reading this series, and I was not disappointed. I love Lynn Raye Harris's writing style, which always keeps me engaged in her stories and characters. I like how Lynn Raye Harris portrays workplace jealousy.

I love Lynn Raye Harris's portrayal of her characters and their interactions throughout this book. Ethan is well written and well researched by Lynn Raye Harris. I like Lynn Raye Harris's descriptions of Ethan's settings, which help me imagine myself as part of the book's plot.

I recommend this book.

[Wendy Livingstone · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the 5th book in this amazing series, and this is Ethan and Paisley’s story.
Ethan is trying to forget the girl who got away, and Paisley arrives in town as the head librarian, and is a single mom to her 4-year-old daughter. Paisley is on the run from her abusive and obsessed ex, who is a dangerous formed soldier, and the last person she expects to cross paths with his Ethan, who walked away when she needed him the most.
This is a well written action-packed story, with friendships, emotions, tension, secrets, suspense, intrigue, forced proximity, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, small-town romance.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.

[Cheryl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ethan is another book in the Ghost Ops series and it’s a doozy.. Ethan and Paisley are given a second chance when she moves to town with her daughter to start a new life. Leaving her ex has been quite a challenge because every time she tries to start over he appears. When Ethan realizes that Paisley was lied to regarding the reason why Ethan couldn’t contact her things get interesting. Watching the three of them become a unit and finding out things her ex kept from her makes this is a great suspenseful read!

[♡︎ Kesa Subban ♡︎ · Rating 4 out of 5]

ꍏꋪꏳ ꋪꏂ꒦ꀤꏂꅐ
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 - 𝖤𝗍𝗁𝖺𝗇
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 - 𝖯𝖺𝗂𝗌𝗅𝖾𝗒
4 𝘚𝘦𝘤𝘰𝘯𝘥 𝘊𝘩𝘢𝘯𝘤𝘦 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐫𝐬
𝐎𝐯𝐞𝐫𝐚𝐥𝐥 𝐎𝐩𝐢𝐧𝐢𝐨𝐧

Paisley, a connection was formed within a few weeks and before she knew what was happening she fell in love. But Ethan left with a heartbreaking message. And now nearly five years later, she has moved to Sutton Creek to start over. Only to come face to face with her past.

Ethan, is one of six highly trained operatives. He and his friends are ghosts. With one mission, to protect their country. To do this they are disguised as former military operatives starting over as civilians.

Ethan, had his heart broken five years ago when the woman he fell for told him she moved on. And the life he pictured for them fell apart. He eventually moved on, but his heart only ever belonged to her. And coming face to face with her in Sutton Creek brings back everything.

This is the fifth book in the series and I literally could not put it down.

Lies broke them, And now they have to fight for their future .

I loved that both spoke their truths only to realise the deception they both had to deal with. I loved that, that aspect of it wasn't drawn out, it got sorted out pretty quickly, and then the friendship and getting to know each other once again was done beautifully. The chemistry and connection between the two leads was perfect & I loved how Ethan instantly loved Violet. And the suspense weaved in is perfect.

I can't wait to see what's next!

𝐒𝐞𝐜𝐨𝐧𝐝𝐚𝐫𝐲 𝐂𝐡𝐚𝐫𝐚𝐜𝐭𝐞𝐫𝐬

Emma, Rory, Callie, Daphne 💜
Blaze, Chance, Seth, Kane 💚
Alex & Diane! Lol, yeah! I'm so ready!!!

𝐑𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠𝐬
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨 🔫🔫🔫🔫🔫
𝐇𝐞𝐫𝐨𝐢𝐧𝐞 📚📖📚📖📚
𝐂𝐡𝐞𝐦𝐢𝐬𝐭𝐫𝐲 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥
𝐒𝐩𝐢𝐜𝐞 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 🥵 🌶️
𝐏𝐥𝐨𝐭 📚📚📚📚
𝐄𝐦𝐨𝐭𝐢𝐨𝐧𝐚𝐥 𝐋𝐞𝐯𝐞𝐥 💧

[Maria · Rating 3 out of 5]

Twisted Betrayal

3.5 Stars - Ethan and Paisley's story was good. They have a brief history and it just evaporates. He didn't understand, in his mind he must of thought things differently. To his surprise, his teammate's women introduce him to the new librarian. They are both stunned, but don't reveal they know each other. We learn about his horrible childhood and about what has gone on in her life since they last saw each other five years ago. I wanted more to the ending though.

[YvonneReadsRomance · Rating 3 out of 5]

A bit depressing but okay otherwise

Ethan by Lynn Raye Harris is the fifth book in the Ghost Ops series. There are things that could’ve made it more enjoyable, but overall it wasn’t a bad read. The writing, while not flawless, was solid. The plot and characters were tolerable, except maybe for the FMC.

Ethan Snow and Paisley Allen met five years ago and dated for a month. Both felt there was potential for more, but Ethan was suddenly called away on a mission. With no time to explain, he asked teammate Trey McCann to deliver a message: tell Paisley he’d call her as soon as he could. Trey, however, saw his chance. Instead of passing along Ethan’s words, he lied and told Paisley Ethan had broken things off. Trey then wormed his way into her life and eventually married her.

Now, five years later, Paisley is divorcing the abusive Trey. She and her daughter, Violet, move to Sutton’s Creek, where Paisley takes a job as head librarian. One night, she runs into Ethan at the local bar. Both are shocked at seeing the other. Believing Paisley had ended things, Ethan resolves to stay out of her way. But because they share the same circle of friends, they keep crossing paths. As the truth comes out, Ethan and Paisley’s attraction rekindle. Meanwhile, Trey wants revenge on Paisley for daring to divorce him, and Ethan and the Ghost Ops team vow to protect her and Violet.

Although the plot was decent, the mood was too Debbie Downer for me. Yes, Paisley was a victim of abuse, but she was constantly in her head about Trey and what he did, dragging the book down. It was her choice to believe Trey. Her choice to lean on him like a crutch when she thought Ethan had left her. Her choice to sleep with Trey a mere week after the supposed “break-up” while still pining for Ethan.

Later, it’s explained Trey might have drugged her the first time, but that didn’t sit well with me. It was also never confirmed, but for me, getting drunk and sleeping with someone else within days of the man you really love leaving you is not an excuse. Then Paisley discovered she was pregnant and didn’t know if the father was Trey or Ethan. Ever heard of a paternity test? Apparently not. Instead, she married Trey—no one forced her—and stayed with him for almost five years despite the abuse. She acted like she had no agency. I kept asking: why did she marry Trey? Was it desperation to be married? Did she love him, despite supposedly pining for Ethan all that time? Honestly, her part in their breakup did not endear Paisley to me.

Ethan was a good guy. His past was dark too, but unlike Paisley, he didn’t roll over and play the victim. Could he have searched Paisley out when he got that rejection text from her five years ago? Of course he could’ve, and that’s the one thing about him that rubbed me off wrong. Other than that, he did what needed to be done. And once Paisley reentered his life and he realized he still loved her, he went all out to make her and Violet his. Ethan was the kind of alpha character I enjoy in these books, and I sympathized with him during his reflections about Paisley having been with Trey. He honestly had a lot of forgiveness in him. Paisley, on the other hand, was the kind of FMC who was passive and wishy-washy. She just went with the flow.

Their relationship was slow-moving. The romance only started around 40%. At 50%, they hadn’t even shared a proper kiss (and pecks on the head or lips don’t count). Their progression was odd, though, because they acted like a couple, doing everything couples do, except the romance part. Once they finally got together, things moved forward, and the spice wasn’t bad. Still, I was annoyed that Paisley cowardly avoided finding out who Violet’s father was, and that she wasn’t upfront with Ethan about the possibility Violet might be his.

The suspense was decent but slow. We got two or three passages from Trey’s POV, but the real action only hit at the end.

I generally enjoy Lynn Raye Harris’s books, but this one was just okay plot-wise. That sleeping-with-someone-else move a week after the supposed breakup just didn’t do it for me. I am, however, looking forward to the next and final book in the series, Alex/Ghost’s story. Hopefully it delivers the same kind of fire that Ian Black’s book in the Black’s Bandits series did.

[R.L. Dunn · Rating 5 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
“Some stories heal you without even meaning to — this was one of them.”

I absolutely loved this book. Lynn Raye Harris has this gift for writing stories that aren’t just romantic, but soul-deep. Ethan wasn’t just a love story — it was about pain, trust, forgiveness, and learning that sometimes, home isn’t a place… it’s people.

From the very first page, I was completely gone. Ethan’s story hit me right in the heart. He’s this strong, stoic soldier who’s seen and survived more than most people could imagine — but he’s also carrying so much guilt and grief that he’s forgotten what it means to live. Watching him struggle, and then slowly begin to open up, was both heartbreaking and beautiful. Every moment of vulnerability from him felt earned, and every step toward healing made me tear up a little more.

And then there’s Paisley — strong, compassionate, brave in quiet ways. She’s been through her own share of pain, but instead of letting it harden her, she meets the world with softness and hope. I loved that she didn’t try to “fix” Ethan. She just saw him — the man behind the scars, the protector who didn’t believe he deserved to be loved. Her strength isn’t loud or showy; it’s in her patience, her loyalty, and the way she loves fiercely without losing herself.

Violet, her daughter, absolutely stole my heart. She’s this little burst of sunshine in a story full of shadows — sweet, funny, pure. The way she connected with Ethan melted me. She’s the one who breaks through his walls without even trying. Through her innocence, Ethan finds laughter again, trust again, and a sense of family he thought he’d lost forever.

The three of them together? Pure magic. Watching them form a family, piece by piece, was one of the most emotionally satisfying parts of the book. Every scene felt intimate — not just romantic, but human. Lynn Raye Harris doesn’t write clichés; she writes real people finding love in the middle of chaos.

By the end, I was crying and smiling at the same time. Ethan, Paisley, and Violet deserved every bit of peace they found. This story reminded me why I love romance so much — because love, in all its messy, healing, imperfect forms, saves people.

If you’re into military heroes with haunted pasts, strong women who love with courage, and stories that blend heartache with hope, this book will absolutely wreck you — in the best way possible.

[bookishWife · Rating 5 out of 5]

Paisley and Ethan were once in love—until Ethan left town for an assignment without enough time to explain. Trusting someone he thought was a friend, Trey, Ethan asked him to pass along a message to Paisley. Instead, Trey betrayed him. Fueled by his own desire for Paisley, Trey spread lies that ultimately tore Ethan and Paisley apart.

Years later, Paisley is married to Trey and has a four-year-old daughter. But Trey turns out to be manipulative and abusive, pushing Paisley to flee. She isn’t exactly hiding, but she also isn’t advertising her whereabouts. Of all the small towns she could escape to, she ends up in the one where Ethan now lives. Funny how fate works. What begins as an awkward coincidence slowly turns into serendipity. As Paisley and Ethan reconnect, the truth behind their separation comes to light, and they realize it was all Trey’s manipulation. They begin rebuilding their relationship, even with Trey’s lingering threat still looming.

Ethan’s unwavering love for Paisley is the emotional highlight of this book. Though he was angry and hurt by the way things ended, he never stopped loving her. Once Paisley’s adorable daughter—who turns out to be his—enters the picture, it’s impossible for him not to fall in love all over again. Paisley is equally compelling: mature, honest, and brave. Despite feeling trapped and hopeless during her marriage, she finds the strength to leave in order to protect herself and her child. She’s open with Ethan about Trey’s deception and doesn’t cling to petty grudges or misunderstandings. And her grandmother? An absolute hoot—I loved her.

Normally, I would struggle with a story where the heroine is still legally married when she reconnects with her former love. However, because Trey is abusive, I see the marriage as effectively over the moment the abuse begins. I mention this because I know some readers may find this situation uncomfortable.

Overall, this is the best book in the series. It made me cry, smile, laugh, and feel genuinely scared at times. It’s the kind of story you can’t put down—and it’s absolutely worth reading in one sitting.

[Nikki Brooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ethan and his fellow Ghost Ops are the best at what they do but they are failing on one particular section of their undercover mission: Don't fall in love!

I've loved meeting the Ghost Ops and the women that snare their hearts. Ethan, however, gets to steal the hearts of two women, Paisley and her daughter Violet. They have a bit of past, one that was cut short due to a mission and some heinous miscommunication instigated by someone they thought was a friend.

Now stuck together in a small town, Ethan needs to find a way to repair the damage done to their relationship, damage not caused by him but he still feels a large dollop of guilt. Paisley wants to trust people again but she has a hard time letting down those walls but the women of Ghost Ops will not let her cower away - they'll kick the butt of anyone who threatens her, whether they are pregnant or not!

Ethan and Paisley's story may move too fast for some readers, but they do have history so to me it just felt that they'd hit pause. Whilst Paisley has an abusive ex-husband to deal with, she won't do it alone. Violet is the sweetest and most empathetic toddler. She has seen way too much for her little eyes to handle but she remains an optimistic bundle of joy!

Reading from multiple POV's (including the ex) we really see how all the emotions, motivations & thoughts move the story along. I love a flawed MC and Ethan, the big macho male who is terrified of spiders was such a refreshing change. His love of Paisley and Violet was all encompassing and he didn't need anything more than them, no piece of paper would ever make him think violet was anything less than his daughter.

You will want to punch the living daylights out of Trey at the least. He is an odious, evil, motherducker and he got just the end he deserved!

[Cassy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lynn Raye Harris is one of those rare authors that the further I get into a series by her, the more I end up liking the book. My favorites always seem to be at the end of a series, both because of the plot she’s weaved but also because I think I’ve gotten to know the characters so much, I’m incredibly invested in their happily ever after.

Let me start by saying that this book had the potential to be a terribly dragged out miscommunication trope and Harris nipped that in the bud right away. The misunderstanding got cleared out immediately and even managed to build on the plot and the characters. It gave you great insight to Paisley and her life before Ethan.

I also adored how quickly Ethan decided that she was it. He knew when they had been together five years ago, and once the air was cleared, he was pretty quick to decide that Paisley and Violet were his family, Ghost Ops directive be damned. 🤣 He basically took the “well all my teammates are hitched so no reason I shouldn’t be” attitude. I really like that he wasn’t resistant to the relationship.

Also he took such CARE with them both. He didn’t push, didn’t insist, didn’t do anything that would make both Paisley and Violet uncomfortable. Ethan and Paisley had fantastic chemistry and I really appreciate the easy friendship Paisley gained with the other women.

I am REALLY excited to see Ghost’s book because it’s clear everything that has been building is going to culminate there and I am SO EXCITED to not only see it happen and these men save the day again, but to see Alex fall hard while they do it.

As usual, another 10/10 book.

[Sara · Rating 5 out of 5]

Another fantastic book in the Ghost Ops series! I’m loving watching each of these seasoned special operators fall in love while on a secret mission to protect a top secret project.

I love the second chance romance with Ethan possibly learning he is a daddy to sweet Violet. It was heartbreaking how these two were pulled apart due to the jealousy of someone else, and then the abuse Paisley suffered at his hand. Ethan reacted strongly when he was surprised with Paisley’s reappearance in his life, but other than that reaction he was calm and steady with a determination to put Paisley and her daughter first.

The development of their relationship happens as Ethan and Paisley spend time together while he installs a security system at her home and then stays as added security to give her some peace of mind. Paisley feels guilt and struggles with telling Ethan he could possibly be Violet’s biological father, and while she doesn’t tell him immediately she was actually fairly proactive given all that she’d been through at her ex’s hand..

The bond and friendship with the entire Ghost Ops team is entertaining and their women fit right in. The ladies welcome Paisley to their sisterhood and Bookalicious Besties Bookclub before her connection to Ethan is known. At this point, Ghost is resigned with his men are falling in love with the local ladies.

This is an entertaining and exciting book! The next book featuring Ghost and Diana should be explosive given their oil and water work relationship

I received a free ARC from the author; and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.

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

Ethan’s story is one of miscommunication, second chances, and deceptions that remind us that some of the most dangerous people hide behind a perfectly unassuming mask. Paisely and Ethan trusted the wrong person and it changed the course of their lives, leaving them both suffering and picking up their lives instead of happy together. Now they have a chance to rewrite their story and together they will succeed only if they decide to have faith in one another. Paisely is a woman determined to turn the chapter on her story and start over for herself and her daughter, but offering her heart again was not in her plan, until she ran into Ethan again; now she has to decide if letting him back into her heart is the only way to go forward and have that happy next path in life or if it will be another mistake. Ethan has no intention of settling down in Podunk Alabama like his buddies have, but is plans are FUBAR when Paisely walks into the bar one night and changes everything, bringing not just his heart back to life but giving him a chance at a family he never knew he’d lost and he will do whatever it takes to keep it. The passion between these two was a roller coaster ride, obviously they never stopped wanting one another so as soon as they got over their past fears and pain, it was unleashed in a big way. I cannot wait for Alex and once that series finale is done I know that whatever Ms. Harris send out into the world it’ll be just as amazing as this series spin-off has been. I never fail to enjoy myself when reading a Harris story and you can’t go wrong with a hot special ops alpha male losing his heart in a big way.

[H · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you love stories about tough heroes, strong women, and second chances at love, Ethan will hit all the right notes. This book gives us Ethan “Dragon” Snow’s story- one of the mysterious Ghost Ops men who’s supposed to stay under the radar and avoid attachments. But when the woman he never stopped loving suddenly shows up in his new town, all bets are off.

Paisley is trying to start over with her young daughter, Violet, after escaping a bad marriage and a dangerous past. She doesn’t expect to run into Ethan- the man who broke her heart years ago and doesn’t even know she had a child. Their reunion is emotional, messy, and completely gripping from the start.

What really makes this book shine is how genuine the characters feel. Ethan is protective but gentle, especially with Violet, and it’s impossible not to smile watching him slowly fit into their lives. Paisley’s mix of strength and vulnerability makes her easy to root for, and the chemistry between her and Ethan feels real - like two people who have loved and lost and finally get a second shot.

Of course, this is a Lynn Raye Harris story, so you can count on plenty of suspense, danger, and team action to keep your heart racing. There’s a threatening ex, a secret mission, and just enough tension to keep you flipping pages.

All in all, Ethan is a perfect blend of romance, redemption, and adrenaline. It’s a story about love that refuses to die, family found in unexpected places, and courage in the face of danger. A fantastic addition to the Ghost Ops series and one that fans won’t want to miss.

[Rosalynn Hilton · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was a great read. Paisley and Ethan have a past and both were very surprised when they came face to face in small town Alabama. Both have feelings of being ghosted and not understanding what went wrong. Now that they are in the same small town and she has made friends with his teammates partners, he needs to speak with her and be able to have a cordial relationship. Once they speak and realize they were both lied to and her estranged spouse was behind it all, they were able to rebuild their friendship. However, the chemistry is still there and when Ethan finds out that his so called acquaintance, Trey has been abusive and physical with Paisley, he decides that it is his job to make sure Paisley and Violet are safe in the home they are currently living in. As Ethan and Paisley rekindle their friendship, it is very obvious that the feelings are still there and growing. As the danger increases due to Trey trying to make sure that he makes Paisley pay for leaving, filing for divorce and telling the court he is abusive the One Shot Tactile team gets ready to defend against a foe who knows how they strategize due to being a HOT team member until he was released from this duty while in the military. This is a great second chance love and it was amazing to see the partners of the One Shot men be able to hold their own with forces that were out to make sure they felt as much pain as possible.

[Joanne · Rating 5 out of 5]

A great second change love story!
Paisley is the new librarian in town and just starting to settle in with her adorable 4 year old daughter, Violet when she runs into Ethan at the bar with the other ladies. To say that they are both shocked to see each other is an understatement. These two met 5 years earlier and fell in love but then tragedy struck when someone betrayed both of them and Ethan was left thinking that Paisley didn’t want to be with him anymore. Poor Paisley has been through a lot in her life in the last 5 years and is now running and hiding from that mistake. Thankfully Ethan steps up and these two finally talk about what happened to them years ago and they move on from there. They both still love each other and the way that Ethan treats Violet is beautiful to watch. He is a true man in that he doesn’t care if Violet is his or not, because he is going to treat her like she is and love her like she deserves to have a father love her. That made my heart happy to see. This book has everything you would expect from Lynn and her Ghost Ops series. There’s still the mystery of the mission they are working on, but there is also passion and love with Ethan and Paisley and also a bad guy who needs to be dealt with. Now there’s only one man left standing and I cannot wait to see what Lynn has in store for Alex!

[Linda Carlson · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ethan & Paisley

Intensely exciting! A great story about a woman who escaped, along with her young daughter, an abusive marriage only to end up in the same town as her ex-love.

Danger is always around the corner that has Paisley constantly looking at everyone and watching to make sure her abusive husband, Trey, has not somehow found them.

After 5 years thinking Paisley is no longer interested in a relationship, Ethan sees Paisley at the Salty Dawg and it starts all over from there. He immediately goes into protective mode after learning of Paisley’s situation and how he played a role in its beginning - much to the angst of Colonel Alex (Ghost) Bishop, their boss of Ghost Ops and One Shot Tactical. They discover they are still in love and go about their days, cautious of any lurking danger.

I love how they immediately fall into being a small, loving family. Unfortunately, they have a cloud hanging over their heads dampening their future.

Everything heats up when danger does come to town. I snickered at Trey’s over-inflated ego and his smug confidence thinking he was going to prevail and make everyone involved suffer. I absolutely love how the One Shot Tactical Team gathers forces and does their thing to save their loved ones.

Great story! Can’t wait for Alex’s turn next!

[U.M. Hiram · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ethan “Dragon” Snow has been trying to forget the one woman who ever really mattered to him. When she shows up in his town with a four-year-old daughter who resembles him, my heart did a little flip right along with his. There’s so much history between them. As their raw feelings resurface and truths about their forced separation unfold, it is engaging and page-turning.

Paisley Allen survived a controlling, dangerous husband and is trying to build a safe life for her child. Seeing her forced to rely on Ethan again adds real emotional tension. While Ethan is a tough guy on the outside, he melts the minute he realizes what he might have lost at the hands of a narcissist.

This story balances sweet moments with high-stakes danger. I loved the small-town feel: nosy neighbors, new friendships, a librarian trying to start over, and a group of lethally trained men pretending to be normal while hiding a top-secret mission. The suspense element keeps things tense, especially when Paisley’s past catches up to her.

A few twists were predictable, but honestly, I was too invested in the characters to mind. The second-chance romance, the “maybe dad” reveal, and the protective streak Ethan tries then fails to hide—it all works to make this an amazing story. Until next time ... Happy Reading!

[Dana zamora · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blood money doing GREAT THINGS

Five years ago they thought they had everything, Ethan gets called out on a mission and has his co-worker relay a message to Paisley that he will be it touch as soon as possible, present day Paisley fled to Sutton Creek to the safety of her aunt with her daughter, fearing for her and her daughters life from her abusive husband, as the towns newest librarian she's meeting all kinds of people, invited into the local book club was a good thing, still leary, always watching and waiting for the other shoe to drop, she thinks she may have seen a ghost at the Dawg one night out with the girls, Ethan leaves out the back when he makes eye contact with her, ohhhhhh their chemistry is still molten lava HOTTTTTT, and he adores her little girl with unique eyes, kinda like his, truths, childhood tragedy, current situation, everything on the table out in the open, no more hiding anything from each other, and the past comes rushing back ready to destroy what they are building together, score one for the good guys, Lynn Raye Harris, I have loved every single book in Ghost Ops series, but I think this one was the BEST but I will hold my final opinion once the top dog Ghost comes out, this has everything you want in a story, thank you, Dana Zamora

[Lisa · Rating 5 out of 5]

This second chance romance is a great read and a great addition to this series.

Paisley has come to Sutton Creek to escape her abusive ex and have a fresh start with her daughter. What she does not expect is to run into a man from her past while hiding from her abusive ex. Too bad that man is Ethan and he isn't going anywhere especially after he discovers that their story from the past ended in deceit by her ex.

Ethan never thought that he would run into Paisley again especially in Sutton Creek. After finding out the truth about their past ending, he didn't expect to still have feelings and an attraction to her. Add in a little girl that has some of his characteristics and chemistry between the pair that is off the charts while one adds in the danger aspect of her ex and one gets an action packed story that is hard to put down.

This is one great read and a great addition to this series. The characters are well written with chemistry that is off the charts. I enjoy the return of the characters from the previous books and the plot of the story had me hooked. Overall, this is a great read that I enjoyed from page one and would recommend this book to others as well as this series.

[Jean Marie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was Ethan's story and a wonderful addition to the Ghost Ops Series.

Five years ago, Ethan met this woman Paisley and they hit it off. They weren't together long but they knew it was something special and even got matching tattoos. But then, Ethan gets called away on a mission and didn't have any time to tell Paisley what was going on. He asked a "friend" of his, Trey, to tell her what happened and he'd call as soon as he could. Unfortunately, Trey took this as his chance to make Paisley his instead. Paisley was so devastated, but Trey consoled her. Eventually Trey and Paisley got married but then Trey became abusive and Paisley ran away with "their" daughter.

She ends up in Sutton Creek where her Aunt lives and as it turns out, so does Ethan. They run into each other and it's like each of them has seen a ghost. Both of them are hurt by the way things ended but they quickly realize that things didn't happen the way they thought they did. They begin a new friendship and realize that they still have feelings. But Trey rears his ugly head again and not only captures Paisley but also the women of the other men.

Will Ethan and the boys be able to rescue them in time? Will Trey ever let her go? What will happen to Ethan? Read the book to find out. Loved it!

[Christina · Rating 5 out of 5]

We finally got Ethan’s story! I have been waiting to see what would happen with Ethan and Paisley! Ethan thought he had been ghosted by Paisley and Paisley was told that Ethan was done with her. What unfolds is a complex story where you will most likely be mad at the character who caused the split.

At first, Ethan and Paisley act as if they did not have a past, but that quickly changes when it appears that Paisley and her daughter are in trouble. No spoilers, but as expected, Ghost did some more head banging at learning about Ethan and Paisley’s past connection!

Overall, a great story of love and redemption and learning to trust again. I loved how Ethan was with Violet (Paisley’s daughter) – there are such cute moments with arranging for her to see fireworks and just him telling her a story before bed. There’s also great suspense and events with the whole Ghost Ops team (and their significant others). This is my favorite book from this series (so far at least!). I can’t wait to see how the overarching story concludes in the next story!

I voluntarily reviewed an advanced reader copy of this book. This is my true and honest opinion.

[Anika · Rating 5 out of 5]

Every time I finish a new book in the Ghost Ops series, I’m convinced it’s my favorite—and Ethan just proved me right again! Lynn Raye Harris has such a gift for blending heart-pounding suspense with deep emotion and unforgettable romance.

Ethan "Dragon" Snow completely stole my heart. His story with Paisley was everything I love in a second-chance romance—intense, emotional, and full of chemistry. The added twist of a secret child and Paisley’s fight to protect her daughter made it impossible to put down. I was cheering for them from the very first page.

I loved seeing how the small-town setting of Sutton’s Creek keeps revealing new layers with each book. The brotherhood between the Ghost Ops men is as strong as ever, but Ethan’s story really tugged at my heartstrings. Watching him finally face his past and fight for his future with Paisley was both satisfying and deeply moving.

Lynn Raye Harris never disappoints—her characters are real, her plots are gripping, and the romance is always swoon-worthy. I can’t wait to read Alex's book next.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Di · Rating 5 out of 5]

When Paisley encounters Ethan after five years, their reunion is not so great, pretending to not know each other but living in the same small town, you can’t but help bumping into each other especially since Paisley has become friends with the women. Ethan can’t believe that after all these years he sees her again, and now she as a four year old daughter, Violet, but the two have been through a lot, and there is a reason she is getting a divorce and doesn’t want her ex to find her. Their past is bittersweet, lies and betrayals have kept them apart but once it all gets revealed, there is nothing that Ethan won’t do to protect the two….no matter the cost.
Flip…flip…flip…the pages kept flipping and I didn’t want their story to end. I LOVED what could have become over the top drama, did not, there is enough going on around them, reconnecting, the suspense, which made the story sooooo much more. Descriptions were spot on, story flowed beautifully, adorable cuteness from Violet, brave women who can hold their own and Ethan and Paisley….sigh and swoon…sigh and swoon.
*I voluntarily read an advanced copy and expressed my honest opinion*

[lowkeyreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Ethan by Lynn Raye Harris is a compelling and emotionally charged contemporary romance that kept me engaged from start to finish. The story explores complex themes of love, redemption, and healing through deeply flawed but relatable characters. I appreciated the intense emotional depth Harris brought to the narrative, making the characters’ struggles and growth feel authentic.

The chemistry between Ethan and the heroine is electric, with a blend of raw vulnerability and passion that adds richness to their connection. Harris’s writing style is immersive and evocative, drawing readers into the characters’ world and emotions.

While some plot elements follow familiar romance tropes, the strong character development and heartfelt storytelling make the story feel fresh and impactful. The pacing was well-balanced, though a few scenes could have been expanded to enhance the emotional resonance.

Overall, Ethan is a powerful, well-written romance for fans who enjoy emotionally layered stories that blend angst with hope. I’m giving it 4 stars and look forward to more from Lynn Raye Harris.

[Liza · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolute loved every moment of Ethan: Ghost Ops book 5. I love a well written second chance romance, and Ethan and Paisley's story was perfection!

Ethan and Paisley met 5 years ago and seemed to be quickly heading to a happily ever after. Until Ethan is sent on a mission and trusts the wrong person to let Paisley know he will call her when he returns from said mission. When Paisley shows up in Sutton Creek, the attraction between them is every bit as strong, but both are still hurt because of how everything ended 5 years ago. Add in Paisley is in the middle of a divorce from her abusive husband Trey, who is behind their ending 5 years ago, and there was a bit of a roller coaster of a ride in this book, especially as Paisley isn't sure if Ethan or Trey is the father of her daughter Violet.

Lynn Raye Harris keeps the reader on the edge of their seat once again in Ethan. I have adored each of the Ghost Ops books to date, and I think Ethan is my favorite so far. The second change romance troupe is one of my favorites, and the action-packed story as well as the romance and family time, were balanced so well.

I'm a huge. fan of this series in audiobook format. Both CJ Bloom and Sebastian York were amazing! The transistions from one narrator to the other was completely seamless, and kept me pulled into the story the entire time.

Rating: 5 Stars
Review copy provided by publisher

[Deborah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Lynn has spun a fabulous second chance romance. Ethan is my favourite of the series so far, although I’ve loved each book. It seems Paisley, Sutton’s newest and prettiest librarian and Ethan shared a passionate past. However, after a series of missed calls and texts along with other nefarious acts ensured their passion flamed out, leaving both Paisley and Ethan heartbroken as they tried move on to pick up the pieces of their lives. Coming face to face with Ethan, Paisley is wary of his motives and is far less trusting these days with an impending divorce and a precocious 4 year old to protect. The ensuing drama and intrigue comes from all directions and all focused towards Paisley, and when the danger hits way too close to home from a foe they know all too well, Ethan and the One Shot Tactical guys will do whatever it takes to save the day. This is a satisfying emotional roller coaster of a read as Ethan and Paisley come to terms with what was and what could be if they take a leap of faith and learn to trust in each other - again. Thanks to the author for the opportunity to read and review her work.

[katharine · Rating 5 out of 5]

I don’t know how Lynn constantly one-ups herself, but this might be her best book to date (and I’ve loved every single one of them)! There was just something about this book that was hitting differently and I was SAT!

I absolutely loved Ethan and Paisley. Their story and history was so heartbreaking and tragic and my heart hurt so much for them.

The villain in this was so unique since he was so close to home for the HOT boys and it made for such an interesting story. I absolutely loved the capture and rescue part of this book for specific reasons, and iykyk exactly what I’m talking about.

But now the moment we have all been waiting for is here and ALEX’S BOOK IS NEXT!!! And we already know it’s Alex and Diana and oh boy am I so freaking excited for it!

If you read Lynn’s newsletter you know the next series takes place across town (which is mentioned in this book). I’m very curious to see who that team will be comprised of. I’m also making a guess now that Nikki (baby Nikki) will be one of the ladies!

[Sarah · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ethan by Lynne Raye Harris is a fast-paced, emotionally charged romantic suspense novel that perfectly captures her signature blend of danger, desire, and heart. This story focuses on Ethan “Dragon” Snow, a disciplined and fiercely loyal operative, and Paisley Allen, a determined, intelligent woman whose strength shines even when she’s thrust into peril.

From the first chapter, Harris pulls readers into a world of high-stakes missions and simmering tension. Ethan is the kind of hero who carries the weight of his past with quiet intensity, while Paisley’s courage and compassion make her instantly likable and deeply relatable. Their connection builds through adrenaline-filled moments and quiet emotional beats, making the romance feel both authentic and powerful.

Harris’s writing is sharp and cinematic—she balances explosive action scenes with genuine emotional depth, ensuring that readers are invested not only in the mission but also in the relationship at the heart of the story.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Paisley has recently moved to Sutton’s Creek with her daughter Violet looking to leave her past behind after managing to escape a difficult marriage. The last person she expects to see there is Ethan, the man she dated years earlier and who left without a backward glance. She doesn’t want anything to do with him but as the danger escalates so do the feelings between them.

Ethan had deep feelings for Paisley, and he thought he made arrangements so that she knew it as well however a betrayal will change everything for them both. Seeing her again he realizes the feelings between them are stronger than ever however they must not only overcome the misunderstandings of the past but the threat in the present as well.

Suspense and romance combine as Paisley and Ethan must deal with everything that happened while they were separated as well as the past that refuses to stay where it belongs. He wants a future with Paisley and is determined to protect both his girls.