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Ashford Creek #.5
Careless
On my 21st birthday, I know there's only one wish I'm making when I blow out my candles.
A chance with him.
Only I'm his best friend's little sister, so that means I'm beyond off limits.
And did I mention he's older?
I'm ready to be seen as my own person and to take the next step.
But I know it can't be with him.
Yet when I'm backed in a corner, there's only one person I can call for help.
Him.
Careless is the prequel to the Ashford Creek series. Learn how Callum Ashford and Felicity Carter fall into a careless mistake before their full story in Legacy.
A chance with him.
Only I'm his best friend's little sister, so that means I'm beyond off limits.
And did I mention he's older?
I'm ready to be seen as my own person and to take the next step.
But I know it can't be with him.
Yet when I'm backed in a corner, there's only one person I can call for help.
Him.
Careless is the prequel to the Ashford Creek series. Learn how Callum Ashford and Felicity Carter fall into a careless mistake before their full story in Legacy.
232 pages, Paperback
First published November 10, 2025
112 people are currently reading
174 people want to read
About the author
Carrie Ann Ryan
277 books6,350 followersCarrie Ann Ryan is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary, paranormal, and young adult romance. Her works include the Montgomery Ink, Talon Pack, Promise Me, and Elements of Five series, which have sold millions of books worldwide. She's the winner of a RT Book of the Year and a Prism Award in her genres. She started writing while in graduate school for her advanced degree in chemistry and hasn’t stopped since. Carrie Ann has written over seventy-five novels and novellas with more in the works. When she’s not losing herself in her emotional and action-packed worlds, she’s reading as much as she can while wrangling her clowder of cats who have more followers than she does.
The Montgomery Ink World contains the following series, though each series is a stand alone and can be read in any order. Feel free to hop around:
The Montgomery Ink Series
The Gallagher Brothers Series
The Montgomery Ink: Colorado Springs Series
The Whiskey and Lies Series
The Fractured Connections Series
The Montgomery Ink: Boulder Series
The Less Than Series
The Promise Me Series
Her Elements of Five Series is her Young Adult Romance series while her other series are all adult.
Her Talon Pack series is set in the same world as the Redwood Pack series, only 30 years later.
The Dante's Circle, Holiday, Montana, and Branded Packs series are all individual series as well.
The Montgomery Ink World contains the following series, though each series is a stand alone and can be read in any order. Feel free to hop around:
The Montgomery Ink Series
The Gallagher Brothers Series
The Montgomery Ink: Colorado Springs Series
The Whiskey and Lies Series
The Fractured Connections Series
The Montgomery Ink: Boulder Series
The Less Than Series
The Promise Me Series
Her Elements of Five Series is her Young Adult Romance series while her other series are all adult.
Her Talon Pack series is set in the same world as the Redwood Pack series, only 30 years later.
The Dante's Circle, Holiday, Montana, and Branded Packs series are all individual series as well.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 131 reviews
November 11, 2025
I love when Carrie Ann gives us these prequels to tie us over until we can get our hands on the first book of a new series. CARELESS is just the book to whet your appetite for the Ashford Creek Series. In this prequel, we meet the Ashford Family as well as Felicity Carter and her brother Ruin.
𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewC05
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
**𝐈 𝐚𝐥𝐬𝐨 𝐩𝐫𝐞-𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐲
You can find me here: Nadine Bookaholic's Links
𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewC05
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books**𝐈 𝐚𝐥𝐬𝐨 𝐩𝐫𝐞-𝐨𝐫𝐝𝐞𝐫𝐞𝐝 𝐚 𝐜𝐨𝐩𝐲
You can find me here: Nadine Bookaholic's Links
October 30, 2025
Rate: 4/5⭐️
Spice: 0/5🌶️
This is book 0.5 aka prequel of the Ashford Creek series! You get to follow Felicity and Callum. Oh this was the perfect way to start this series! You get a little age gap, forbidden romance and brothers best friend vibes. I know their story is going to be so good if this is the sneak peak we got. Note that in this book you get a little taste of Felicity and Callum but to finish their story you have to read Legacy which comes out in January 2026 and I can’t wait! 🙌
Spice: 0/5🌶️
This is book 0.5 aka prequel of the Ashford Creek series! You get to follow Felicity and Callum. Oh this was the perfect way to start this series! You get a little age gap, forbidden romance and brothers best friend vibes. I know their story is going to be so good if this is the sneak peak we got. Note that in this book you get a little taste of Felicity and Callum but to finish their story you have to read Legacy which comes out in January 2026 and I can’t wait! 🙌
November 22, 2025
Brilliant prequel
Brilliant prequel to what looks like another amazing series from Carrie Ann Ryan.
I can't wait to read Felicity and Callum's story and the rest of the siblings.
Brilliant prequel to what looks like another amazing series from Carrie Ann Ryan.
I can't wait to read Felicity and Callum's story and the rest of the siblings.
November 12, 2025
Universal
Felicity's just turned 21 and wants everyone, especially her brother's best friend Callum, to recognize she's an adult. She's crushed on him forever, but he's always only viewed her as the much younger little sister of his friend. But when she needs him most and she calls, he comes running to the rescue. Will it be the catalyst for him to finally give into the chemistry she knows is there?
Felicity and Callum's story is off to an intriguing start in Careless. The tension between them is going to make for some serious sparks when their full length story begins in Legacy, and I cannot wait for it. Though Careless is only the beginning, Carrie amped up the intensity by not only presenting the would be couple, but the secondary characters as well, who will be getting their own stories. This prequel is pitched perfectly, and has me highly impatient for what's to come!
ARC provided by for an honest review.
Review: Live Through Books Blog.
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November 5, 2025
Careless by Carrie Ann Ryan
Thank you to Carrie Ann Ryan for my gifted book.
Let’s just get this out of the way: Careless is only 232 pages long, and yet somehow manages to emotionally wreck me, soothe me, flirt with me, and leave me desperately refreshing release calendars for the next book like I’ve lost all self-control. Because I have. It’s gone. Legacy can’t come soon enough.
Now, about this so-called “prequel” novella. Don’t let the page count fool you—this thing is loaded. Carrie Ann Ryan clearly doesn’t believe in easing us into a series. Nope. She kicks the door open with all the tension, angst, and emotional stakes of a book twice its length, sets the tone for the Ashford Creek universe, and casually drops a forbidden romance bomb that’s still ringing in my ears.
Felicity Carter is newly 21, freshly independent, and fully ready to stop being seen as someone’s kid sister—specifically, Callum Ashford’s best friend’s little sister. Which, in romance world, is code for “completely off-limits but secretly all I think about.” Callum is older, emotionally guarded, and trying very hard to do the right thing. Unfortunately for him, the right thing does not align with what his heart is doing. Spoiler: his heart is an idiot, and we love him for it.
The dynamic between Callum and Felicity is perfectly messy. She wants to be seen, taken seriously, and finally go after what—and who—she wants. He wants to keep things respectful, logical, boring. Guess who wins? (It’s not logic.) There’s a moment, mid-simmering-glance-fest, where Callum finally cracks and says, “You’re not just his best friend’s sister anymore, Flick. You’re you. And I can’t stop seeing you.” I don’t know if I want to frame it or scream into a pillow. Possibly both.
And yes, technically, this is just a setup for the real rollercoaster that’s coming in Legacy. But it’s also a complete emotional experience. There’s so much yearning and hesitation packed into such a tight space that I kept forgetting it wasn’t a full-length novel. I had to double-check the page count because how dare a novella make me this invested?
The pacing is quick, but it never feels rushed. Every scene serves a purpose. Every interaction pushes something deeper. The chemistry between Callum and Felicity isn’t just hot—it’s complicated. There’s history, guilt, loyalty, timing. That tension between “I want you” and “I shouldn’t want you” is the whole plot, and it’s glorious.
Also: the writing. Carrie Ann Ryan’s voice is cozy and cutting all at once. Just when you settle into a sweet, tender beat, she’ll blindside you with a line that makes your stomach flip. It’s the kind of storytelling that feels effortless but clearly isn’t. You don’t pack this much punch into a novella without skill—and this woman’s got it in spades.
If you’re coming in for a soft, breezy intro to a new small-town romance series, adjust your expectations. Careless is heartfelt, aching, and emotionally rich in all the right ways. It sets the tone for Ashford Creek with real stakes and leaves you needing the next book, not just wanting it.
In short, if you love a slow-burn age gap with forbidden vibes, high-stakes emotional tension, and a touch of sarcasm to balance the swoon, Careless is your perfect entry point. Just be warned—you’re not leaving Ashford Creek the same.
Rating: ★★★★★
#Careless #CarrieAnnRyan #AshfordCreekSeries #RomanceBookReview #BrothersBestFriend #AgeGapRomance #ForbiddenRomance #SmallTownRomance #RomanceNovella #5StarRead #RomanceARC #2025RomanceReads #KindleRomance #RomanceBookTok #RomanceBlogger #BookstagramReviews
Thank you to Carrie Ann Ryan for my gifted book.
Let’s just get this out of the way: Careless is only 232 pages long, and yet somehow manages to emotionally wreck me, soothe me, flirt with me, and leave me desperately refreshing release calendars for the next book like I’ve lost all self-control. Because I have. It’s gone. Legacy can’t come soon enough.
Now, about this so-called “prequel” novella. Don’t let the page count fool you—this thing is loaded. Carrie Ann Ryan clearly doesn’t believe in easing us into a series. Nope. She kicks the door open with all the tension, angst, and emotional stakes of a book twice its length, sets the tone for the Ashford Creek universe, and casually drops a forbidden romance bomb that’s still ringing in my ears.
Felicity Carter is newly 21, freshly independent, and fully ready to stop being seen as someone’s kid sister—specifically, Callum Ashford’s best friend’s little sister. Which, in romance world, is code for “completely off-limits but secretly all I think about.” Callum is older, emotionally guarded, and trying very hard to do the right thing. Unfortunately for him, the right thing does not align with what his heart is doing. Spoiler: his heart is an idiot, and we love him for it.
The dynamic between Callum and Felicity is perfectly messy. She wants to be seen, taken seriously, and finally go after what—and who—she wants. He wants to keep things respectful, logical, boring. Guess who wins? (It’s not logic.) There’s a moment, mid-simmering-glance-fest, where Callum finally cracks and says, “You’re not just his best friend’s sister anymore, Flick. You’re you. And I can’t stop seeing you.” I don’t know if I want to frame it or scream into a pillow. Possibly both.
And yes, technically, this is just a setup for the real rollercoaster that’s coming in Legacy. But it’s also a complete emotional experience. There’s so much yearning and hesitation packed into such a tight space that I kept forgetting it wasn’t a full-length novel. I had to double-check the page count because how dare a novella make me this invested?
The pacing is quick, but it never feels rushed. Every scene serves a purpose. Every interaction pushes something deeper. The chemistry between Callum and Felicity isn’t just hot—it’s complicated. There’s history, guilt, loyalty, timing. That tension between “I want you” and “I shouldn’t want you” is the whole plot, and it’s glorious.
Also: the writing. Carrie Ann Ryan’s voice is cozy and cutting all at once. Just when you settle into a sweet, tender beat, she’ll blindside you with a line that makes your stomach flip. It’s the kind of storytelling that feels effortless but clearly isn’t. You don’t pack this much punch into a novella without skill—and this woman’s got it in spades.
If you’re coming in for a soft, breezy intro to a new small-town romance series, adjust your expectations. Careless is heartfelt, aching, and emotionally rich in all the right ways. It sets the tone for Ashford Creek with real stakes and leaves you needing the next book, not just wanting it.
In short, if you love a slow-burn age gap with forbidden vibes, high-stakes emotional tension, and a touch of sarcasm to balance the swoon, Careless is your perfect entry point. Just be warned—you’re not leaving Ashford Creek the same.
Rating: ★★★★★
#Careless #CarrieAnnRyan #AshfordCreekSeries #RomanceBookReview #BrothersBestFriend #AgeGapRomance #ForbiddenRomance #SmallTownRomance #RomanceNovella #5StarRead #RomanceARC #2025RomanceReads #KindleRomance #RomanceBookTok #RomanceBlogger #BookstagramReviews
November 9, 2025
Careless (Ashford Creek #0.5)
By: Carrie Ann Ryan
Recommendation: 🌕🌕🌕🌕 - (Out of 5 🌕)
Genre: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Best Friend's Sister
Length: 232 Pages**
Pace: Fast
Moods: Romantic, Page Turner, HEA, Wonderful Characters, Easy to Read, Quick Read
Release Date: November 10, 2025
This an introduction novella by Carrie Ann Ryan for the Ashford Creek series. We first learned about the Ashfords in Pieces of Me, which was Briar and Gabriel's tragedy turned happily ever after. I am so excited to finally be revisiting the Ashford family. In Pieces of Me, Ryan made the family with a small town named after them seem so exciting, dramatic, and mysterious. This short story about Callum and Felicity is a teaser to what is yet to come.
Synopsis:
Felicity Carter has been in love with her older brother's best friend since she was very young. She has elected to celebrate her 21st birthday with her college roommates in her home town of Ashford Creek. While there, she runs into Callum and realizes her feelings for him have never subsided.
Callum Ashford certainly notices Felicity when he runs into her celebrating her birthday. She has grown into an intelligent, independent, beautiful woman but she is completely off limits to him. Not only is she his best friend's sister, she is ten years younger than him. She has not even graduated college yet. When Felicity finds herself in a difficult situation she reaches out to Callum, his protective instincts kick in and he immediately comes to her rescus.
Careless is an introduction to Felicity and Callum's full story titled 'Legacy'. I can't wait to read this couples long anticipated story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
By: Carrie Ann Ryan
Recommendation: 🌕🌕🌕🌕 - (Out of 5 🌕)
Genre: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Best Friend's Sister
Length: 232 Pages**
Pace: Fast
Moods: Romantic, Page Turner, HEA, Wonderful Characters, Easy to Read, Quick Read
Release Date: November 10, 2025
This an introduction novella by Carrie Ann Ryan for the Ashford Creek series. We first learned about the Ashfords in Pieces of Me, which was Briar and Gabriel's tragedy turned happily ever after. I am so excited to finally be revisiting the Ashford family. In Pieces of Me, Ryan made the family with a small town named after them seem so exciting, dramatic, and mysterious. This short story about Callum and Felicity is a teaser to what is yet to come.
Synopsis:
Felicity Carter has been in love with her older brother's best friend since she was very young. She has elected to celebrate her 21st birthday with her college roommates in her home town of Ashford Creek. While there, she runs into Callum and realizes her feelings for him have never subsided.
Callum Ashford certainly notices Felicity when he runs into her celebrating her birthday. She has grown into an intelligent, independent, beautiful woman but she is completely off limits to him. Not only is she his best friend's sister, she is ten years younger than him. She has not even graduated college yet. When Felicity finds herself in a difficult situation she reaches out to Callum, his protective instincts kick in and he immediately comes to her rescus.
Careless is an introduction to Felicity and Callum's full story titled 'Legacy'. I can't wait to read this couples long anticipated story.
I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.
November 14, 2025
Great prequel! Loved the characters!
This was a great prequel story that lets us get a glimpse of Ashford Creek and get to see some of Callum and Felicity and what they have going on before we get their full story in the first novel. It is Felicity's 21st birthday and she is back in her hometown with 4 of her college friends/roommates for her birthday. She has had a crush on Callum for years but with him being older and her brother's best friend never really expected something to really take off between them. She believes he still sees her as her too young. There is definitely some undeniable chemistry between them though as well as a connection. Callum is drawn to her but with her being his best friend's little sister and him not wanting to be his father and the way he views himself, won't let himself even contemplate making a move. But when things go awry, Callum is Felicity's first call for help. I loved getting to know both characters and some of what they have going on. There is definitely some intriguing tidbits that we get about Callum's father and secrets in the town that I am definitely excited to see fleshed out in the next story and throughout the series. It is a quick read and an easy one to engage with. I liked the way that it kind of ended without things having to be too bad for them to overcome in the next one. It has definitely whet my appetite and I'm excited to see what's next.
This was a great prequel story that lets us get a glimpse of Ashford Creek and get to see some of Callum and Felicity and what they have going on before we get their full story in the first novel. It is Felicity's 21st birthday and she is back in her hometown with 4 of her college friends/roommates for her birthday. She has had a crush on Callum for years but with him being older and her brother's best friend never really expected something to really take off between them. She believes he still sees her as her too young. There is definitely some undeniable chemistry between them though as well as a connection. Callum is drawn to her but with her being his best friend's little sister and him not wanting to be his father and the way he views himself, won't let himself even contemplate making a move. But when things go awry, Callum is Felicity's first call for help. I loved getting to know both characters and some of what they have going on. There is definitely some intriguing tidbits that we get about Callum's father and secrets in the town that I am definitely excited to see fleshed out in the next story and throughout the series. It is a quick read and an easy one to engage with. I liked the way that it kind of ended without things having to be too bad for them to overcome in the next one. It has definitely whet my appetite and I'm excited to see what's next.
November 4, 2025
I received a free ARC from the author and I am voluntarily leaving an unbiased review.
This novella was very cute, very short, and very sweet — exactly what I was hoping for. I was so excited to dive into Careless because I absolutely love Carrie Ann Ryan’s writing, and once again, she delivered something that pulled me right in.
As the prequel to the Ashford Creek series, Careless sets the stage beautifully. I’m already thoroughly invested in Callum and Felicity’s story and can’t wait to dive into Legacy when it releases early next year. I also have so many questions about Callum’s past (and a few theories about where Legacy might go!), plus a handful of predictions for the future of the series that have me itching for more.
There was one character I didn’t really like, but overall, I had such a great time reading this. It was the kind of story that had me making a few reader noises along the way — and that gorgeous physical edition definitely doesn’t hurt either.
If you’re looking for a quick, heartfelt read that perfectly sets up what’s to come in Ashford Creek, Careless is the perfect place to start.
This novella was very cute, very short, and very sweet — exactly what I was hoping for. I was so excited to dive into Careless because I absolutely love Carrie Ann Ryan’s writing, and once again, she delivered something that pulled me right in.
As the prequel to the Ashford Creek series, Careless sets the stage beautifully. I’m already thoroughly invested in Callum and Felicity’s story and can’t wait to dive into Legacy when it releases early next year. I also have so many questions about Callum’s past (and a few theories about where Legacy might go!), plus a handful of predictions for the future of the series that have me itching for more.
There was one character I didn’t really like, but overall, I had such a great time reading this. It was the kind of story that had me making a few reader noises along the way — and that gorgeous physical edition definitely doesn’t hurt either.
If you’re looking for a quick, heartfelt read that perfectly sets up what’s to come in Ashford Creek, Careless is the perfect place to start.
November 9, 2025
Tempted!!!
Callum Ashford, Briar's ( PIECES OF ME ) brother had a crush on one of his best-friends little sister, Felicity Carter. And vice versa but he would never act on it before he had some demons he wanted to keep away from her. There are things he couldn't and wouldn't let touch her, no matter how much he craved her. She would be better off without him.
Felicity Carter has always been in love with Callum Ashford but the man he only saw her as his best-friends's sister. Despite her being considered as an adult in the face of the law. During her 21st birthday weekend something happened that made her take a step towards the man she'd always loved and admired. But he wasn't having any of it instead he pushed her away.
CARELESS is a prequel novella in Carrie Ann Ryan's newest upcoming series, ASHFORD CREEK . It was fast-paced, beautiful and intriguing...Looking forward to more soon. Carrie Ann Ryan did an exquisite job as always! Two thumbs up 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾
***I received this book, without any obligation to review.***
Callum Ashford, Briar's ( PIECES OF ME ) brother had a crush on one of his best-friends little sister, Felicity Carter. And vice versa but he would never act on it before he had some demons he wanted to keep away from her. There are things he couldn't and wouldn't let touch her, no matter how much he craved her. She would be better off without him.
Felicity Carter has always been in love with Callum Ashford but the man he only saw her as his best-friends's sister. Despite her being considered as an adult in the face of the law. During her 21st birthday weekend something happened that made her take a step towards the man she'd always loved and admired. But he wasn't having any of it instead he pushed her away.
CARELESS is a prequel novella in Carrie Ann Ryan's newest upcoming series, ASHFORD CREEK . It was fast-paced, beautiful and intriguing...Looking forward to more soon. Carrie Ann Ryan did an exquisite job as always! Two thumbs up 👍🏾👍🏾👍🏾
***I received this book, without any obligation to review.***
December 27, 2025
Carrie Ann Ryan just delivered an amazing set up for her new Ashford Creek series with Careless.
Felicity is home from college celebrating her 21st birthday. Celebrating with her family and college friends and a bit too much. Alcohol makes for a fun evening but the next night turns very drastically. When what should’ve been a friendly date turns to something very different. The first person she calls is not her brother but his best friend.
Callum is totally the person that you want to have on your side. He’s an amazing big brother who stepped up and took care of his siblings, an extremely loyal friend and protector. When his best friend asked him to check on his little sister after a hard night of drinking, there was no way he could say no. Even though he may have had some alternative reasons for saying yes. When she calls him in a panic asking for help he couldn’t move fast enough to save her. Callum has had a hard life and even though his heart may want more he pushes her away.
Talk about a set up. Carrie Ann Ryan hits hard and fast with this prequel to what I’m sure will be an emotionally charged story. Careless is the perfect set up for what’s to come.
Felicity is home from college celebrating her 21st birthday. Celebrating with her family and college friends and a bit too much. Alcohol makes for a fun evening but the next night turns very drastically. When what should’ve been a friendly date turns to something very different. The first person she calls is not her brother but his best friend.
Callum is totally the person that you want to have on your side. He’s an amazing big brother who stepped up and took care of his siblings, an extremely loyal friend and protector. When his best friend asked him to check on his little sister after a hard night of drinking, there was no way he could say no. Even though he may have had some alternative reasons for saying yes. When she calls him in a panic asking for help he couldn’t move fast enough to save her. Callum has had a hard life and even though his heart may want more he pushes her away.
Talk about a set up. Carrie Ann Ryan hits hard and fast with this prequel to what I’m sure will be an emotionally charged story. Careless is the perfect set up for what’s to come.
November 12, 2025
I voluntarily reviewed "CARELESS" This is an interesting, entertaining beginning prequel to the upcoming Asford Creek new series dealing with forbidden age gap romance, wetting your whistle for the c
characters full story.
Felicity is just turning 21yrs. now an adult wanting her family & friends to see that, especially her brother's best friend Callum Ashford, she had feelings for him for a long time.
Callum noticed a change in Felicity at her 21st birthhday all grown, beautiful, smart, but she's 10yrs. younger than him, always protective, when a situations calls for him to rescue Felicity he's there to help.
Callum & Felicity have you wanting the their full story their chemistry is undeniable, but he worries he'll turn out to be just like his dad controlling, fearing he'll hurt the ones he loves.
"LEGACY" can't come soon enough to get Callum & Felicity's full story to see if they do get their HEA, I aways enjoy Carrie Ann Ryan's stories she never disappoints.
characters full story.
Felicity is just turning 21yrs. now an adult wanting her family & friends to see that, especially her brother's best friend Callum Ashford, she had feelings for him for a long time.
Callum noticed a change in Felicity at her 21st birthhday all grown, beautiful, smart, but she's 10yrs. younger than him, always protective, when a situations calls for him to rescue Felicity he's there to help.
Callum & Felicity have you wanting the their full story their chemistry is undeniable, but he worries he'll turn out to be just like his dad controlling, fearing he'll hurt the ones he loves.
"LEGACY" can't come soon enough to get Callum & Felicity's full story to see if they do get their HEA, I aways enjoy Carrie Ann Ryan's stories she never disappoints.
December 12, 2025
I love it when Carrie Ann Ryan stars a new series with a Novella and this one did not disappoint. We meet Callum and Felicity. Felicity is the little sister of Callum’s best friend. She has been away in college and returns to town to celebrate her 21st birthday with friends. When she is lured into a dangerous situation, the first person she calls in Callum…
This novella was a great start to what I know will be a great new series. It gives you just enough to make you want to read book 1 in the series. Callum and Felicity already have a complicated relationship with Callum thinking of Felicity as a sort of little sister but when she returns to town all grown up, Callum can’t help but notice. This story was exciting and just the right amount of excitement to tease Felicity and Callum and this new series featuring Callum’s siblings. Great intro to new characters. Definitely worth the read!!
This novella was a great start to what I know will be a great new series. It gives you just enough to make you want to read book 1 in the series. Callum and Felicity already have a complicated relationship with Callum thinking of Felicity as a sort of little sister but when she returns to town all grown up, Callum can’t help but notice. This story was exciting and just the right amount of excitement to tease Felicity and Callum and this new series featuring Callum’s siblings. Great intro to new characters. Definitely worth the read!!
November 7, 2025
4.5 stars 🌟 - wow what a fabulous teaser for the new Ashford Creek series
This is the prequel to the new Ashford Creek series for which the first book is released in January 2026. It is an amazing introduction to some of Ashford Creek locations and two key families in town, the Ashfords and the Carters.
Callam Ashford is an ex NFL player, back in town and building a life after his football career ended with injury. Felicity Carter is the youngest sibling of his best friend, she is too young, too sweet and innocent, and yet he can’t keep his mind off of her.
This story gets you hooked from the very beginning and now I can’t wait for the next book “Legacy” for the rest of their story, as well as those for the siblings we get introduced to in this prequel. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
This is the prequel to the new Ashford Creek series for which the first book is released in January 2026. It is an amazing introduction to some of Ashford Creek locations and two key families in town, the Ashfords and the Carters.
Callam Ashford is an ex NFL player, back in town and building a life after his football career ended with injury. Felicity Carter is the youngest sibling of his best friend, she is too young, too sweet and innocent, and yet he can’t keep his mind off of her.
This story gets you hooked from the very beginning and now I can’t wait for the next book “Legacy” for the rest of their story, as well as those for the siblings we get introduced to in this prequel. I voluntarily reviewed an advanced copy of this book.
November 9, 2025
𝐂𝐚𝐫𝐞𝐥𝐞𝐬𝐬 is the prequel to the Ashford Creek series by Carrie Ann Ryan, featuring the initial tease of Felicity and Callum’s story. I love the forbidden tension of a good best friend’s sister romance, and this one has a bit of an age gap plus a hint of a tortured hero aspect that is keeping Callum from giving in to the obvious pull between the two of them. When a moment of careless thinking ends up with Felicity in danger, she chooses to call Callum, rather than her family. The angst, the chemistry, the touch her and die vibes, the drama of the vapid friends… I need the rest so badly!! I’m always ready to dive into another family saga by this author! I just wish the prequel was longer!😅 Legacy cannot get here quickly enough!
I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
November 11, 2025
Okay…
Getting ready to head to Ashford Creek next year. Careless, is the prequel novella for the series & introduces us to Felicity Carter & Callum Ashford. We’ve met Callum previously—he’s Briar’s older brother (she was featured in Pieces of Me, the ninth book in the Wilder Brothers series).
While the story is short…we’re introduced to more of the Ashford siblings, plus a few other people around Ashford Creek.
Felicity is home for her birthday with some college classmates.
‘Date-night’ is set up…but when things go wrong? Felicity calls one person…Callum.
Pick up Careless, to get the backstory on these two & then be ready to head back to Ashford Creek in early January 2026.
Five out of five stars & I can’t wait to see what the future holds for these two & the rest of the Ashford siblings & the town of Ashford Creek. Plus…I’m hoping for an Wilder cameo or two.
Getting ready to head to Ashford Creek next year. Careless, is the prequel novella for the series & introduces us to Felicity Carter & Callum Ashford. We’ve met Callum previously—he’s Briar’s older brother (she was featured in Pieces of Me, the ninth book in the Wilder Brothers series).
While the story is short…we’re introduced to more of the Ashford siblings, plus a few other people around Ashford Creek.
Felicity is home for her birthday with some college classmates.
‘Date-night’ is set up…but when things go wrong? Felicity calls one person…Callum.
Pick up Careless, to get the backstory on these two & then be ready to head back to Ashford Creek in early January 2026.
Five out of five stars & I can’t wait to see what the future holds for these two & the rest of the Ashford siblings & the town of Ashford Creek. Plus…I’m hoping for an Wilder cameo or two.
November 30, 2025
Definitely a lot going on in this prequel. We are introduced to a lot of characters and there’s definitely something simmering between Felicity and Callum. I have to say I wasn’t a fan of the four L’s and agree with what was mentioned in the book of why is she even friends with them. Personally, I’m hoping as Felicity graduates that those girls will be in the past for her. When Felicity is pretty much pressured to go out with the four L’s and the guy that she was set up with acted way inappropriately, it was Callum who came to the rescue. I was impressed that not only his friends thought he was inappropriate but the four L’s did as well. I was glad Callum was able to be there for her but she also knew how to defend herself as well. I have a feeling their story is going to be very interesting. Great prequel.
November 10, 2025
It's been a while since I actually read a Carrie Ann book, as I prefer to devour her audiobooks, but as this prequel to the Ashford Creek series isn't available in that format, I decided to bite the bullet and read it. Let me tell you, it's a fantastic introduction to the series, introducing us to Callum Ashford and Felicity Carter, both members of the two most important families residing in Ashford Creek.
This prequel also introduces us to Felicity’s brothers and Callum’s siblings.
This is an age-gap, forbidden, opposites-attract, best friend-romance between two people who couldn't be more different; she's bubbly, whilst he’s a moody grump. I am definitely looking forward to learning more about Felicity and Callum’s story in Legacy.
This prequel also introduces us to Felicity’s brothers and Callum’s siblings.
This is an age-gap, forbidden, opposites-attract, best friend-romance between two people who couldn't be more different; she's bubbly, whilst he’s a moody grump. I am definitely looking forward to learning more about Felicity and Callum’s story in Legacy.
November 12, 2025
I love how Carrie Ann Ryan gives just enough in her prequels to entice her readers to want to wait a wee bit longer for the full story. Callum and Felicity were giving falling-for-your-best-friend's-sibling, small town, age gap feels, and everything about him had me wondering what he was keeping under wraps from those closest to him. Felicity has had a crush on Callum for a good, long while, but she has no idea he's got a thing for her as well. Naturally, there's more to it than the age difference and her brother being Callum's best friend, but everything will be revealed early next year when the full-length series starter is released. That ending makes me think that Callum was anything but careless with his feelings for Felicity; if anything, he was being extremely careful. Let's see what happens in Legacy. Four stars go to Careless.
November 15, 2025
A prequel that leaves you wanting more.
Callum is an Ashford and is Felicity’s brother’s best friend. He’s always been attracted to her. Felicity just turned 21 and is finishing college and is also attracted to Callum. Callum is a decade older then Felicity. They’ve known each other for a long time. He’s protective of her, along with her brother Rune who owns the bar she’s now drinking at because she legally can do so. Of course her other brother Atlas, who plays hockey and is on the road a lot is also very protective of her. They’re in each other’s company twice, but the first time is not a pleasant one. But the second they end up kissing. He pushes her away. Where do they go from there? Can’t wait to read the first book of this series to see where that kiss takes them.
Callum is an Ashford and is Felicity’s brother’s best friend. He’s always been attracted to her. Felicity just turned 21 and is finishing college and is also attracted to Callum. Callum is a decade older then Felicity. They’ve known each other for a long time. He’s protective of her, along with her brother Rune who owns the bar she’s now drinking at because she legally can do so. Of course her other brother Atlas, who plays hockey and is on the road a lot is also very protective of her. They’re in each other’s company twice, but the first time is not a pleasant one. But the second they end up kissing. He pushes her away. Where do they go from there? Can’t wait to read the first book of this series to see where that kiss takes them.
November 15, 2025
Felicity has had feelings for her brother’s best friend Callum for years but now that she is an adult her attempt to show her how she feels didn’t have the desired outcome. Despite that when she was in trouble and needed someone he was the one she knew would be there for her.
Callum has had feelings for Felicity as well but not only is she his best friend’s sister, but he believes she deserves more than he can give her. He is determined to protect her from everyone and everything and that includes himself.
This is the beginning of a new series that leaves you wanting more not only of Felicity and Callum but the other characters as well. Their journey is filled with angst and leaves us needing to know what the future will bring.
Callum has had feelings for Felicity as well but not only is she his best friend’s sister, but he believes she deserves more than he can give her. He is determined to protect her from everyone and everything and that includes himself.
This is the beginning of a new series that leaves you wanting more not only of Felicity and Callum but the other characters as well. Their journey is filled with angst and leaves us needing to know what the future will bring.
November 17, 2025
When Felicity goes to her brother's bar to celebrate her twenty-first birthday, both her brother and Callum are there for her when overindulges. The next night Felicity's friends talk her into meeting them and go on a blind date. When the date takes a turn Felicity calls Callum to come to her rescue. Callum knows he should stay away from Felicity, but he feels drawn to her. These two have feelings for each other, but are trying to ignore their attraction because of her brother and their age difference. Felicity only has a few weeks left until graduation and than returning home. It will be interesting to see what happens with these two. Great start to a new series!! Can't wait to read more of this series!!
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September 24, 2025Ashford Creek prequel by Carrie Ann Ryan
Oh how I wish book 1, Legacy was already out!!
Callum and Felicity grew up together, both with their own secret crush on one another. Now, years later, the crush is still there, on both sides but neither will broach the issue.
Felicity finds herself in a terrible situation with a blind date and the only person she thought to call was Callum. Callum comes to the rescue but quickly realizes he needs to stay away from Felicity because he isn’t strong enough to keep pushing her away.
Oh, Carrie Ann Ryan, please hurry and give me Legacy!! I need to see with my own eyes that they make their way back together!!!!
Oh how I wish book 1, Legacy was already out!!
Callum and Felicity grew up together, both with their own secret crush on one another. Now, years later, the crush is still there, on both sides but neither will broach the issue.
Felicity finds herself in a terrible situation with a blind date and the only person she thought to call was Callum. Callum comes to the rescue but quickly realizes he needs to stay away from Felicity because he isn’t strong enough to keep pushing her away.
Oh, Carrie Ann Ryan, please hurry and give me Legacy!! I need to see with my own eyes that they make their way back together!!!!
November 6, 2025
Felicity comes home to Ashford Creek to celebrate her 21st birthday, hoping to be seen as more than just her brother’s little sister. Callum Ashford, her brother’s best friend, has kept his distance for years—but seeing Felicity now, grown and radiant, stirs feelings he’s tried to bury.
Haunted by a dark past and torn between loyalty and desire, Callum struggles to resist the pull toward Felicity.
This is the spark before the fire—the emotional groundwork that sets the stage for Legacy, where secrets unravel, hearts collide, and love must face the consequences of the past.
Their story is just beginning. Hoping that Legacy brings the excitement that this book is generating.
Haunted by a dark past and torn between loyalty and desire, Callum struggles to resist the pull toward Felicity.
This is the spark before the fire—the emotional groundwork that sets the stage for Legacy, where secrets unravel, hearts collide, and love must face the consequences of the past.
Their story is just beginning. Hoping that Legacy brings the excitement that this book is generating.
November 11, 2025
Careless by Carrie Ann Ryan is the prequel (book .5) in her new Ashford Creek series. We are introduced to the Ashford siblings and their friends, specifically Callum and Felicity. Callum Ashford is the oldest of the Ashford siblings and Rune’s best friend. Felicity is Rune’s little sister and they always see the “little” sister in Felicity. Now she is back in town and ready to celebrate her 21st birthday with her friends. She wants to be seen for who she is and as a woman, but some things never change. When she is in trouble, the only person she thinks off is Callum for help. You can see a bit of their chemistry and connection, but there is no way Callum is going there, right?
I enjoyed meeting the characters in this new series and learning their connections and to see a bit of what is coming and I am so excited for it!
Happy reading!
I enjoyed meeting the characters in this new series and learning their connections and to see a bit of what is coming and I am so excited for it!
Happy reading!
November 12, 2025
Careless is the prequel to the Ashford Creek series by Carrie Ann Ryan that introduces Callum Ashford and Felicity Carter. Where Callum is grumpy and moody, Felicity is sweet, bubbly, and happy. Felicity has secretly crushed on her brother, Rune's, best friend, Callum for years. Callum has taken notice of how Felicity has grown up and tries to keep his attraction to his best friend's little sister under wraps. We meet Callum siblings and Felicity's brothers. Can't wait to see what happens with Callum and Felicity in Legacy. I received a free copy of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.
November 13, 2025
This little prequel novella starts off a new series by Carrie that is releasing in January.
This prequel made me want Legacy (book 1) so badly. We get a quick glimpse of how their story starts. Felicity just turned 21 and wants everyone to recognize her as an adult. She has had a crush on her brothers best friend, Callum for a long time. When trouble arrives it is Callum to her rescue with no questions asked. This leaves a smidge cliffhanger to get the series started.
Age gap, tension, slow burn?, forbidden. This sets the mood for this series. I cannot wait.
This book sets us up with characters that we will be seeing in the future. The family dynamics and past.
This prequel made me want Legacy (book 1) so badly. We get a quick glimpse of how their story starts. Felicity just turned 21 and wants everyone to recognize her as an adult. She has had a crush on her brothers best friend, Callum for a long time. When trouble arrives it is Callum to her rescue with no questions asked. This leaves a smidge cliffhanger to get the series started.
Age gap, tension, slow burn?, forbidden. This sets the mood for this series. I cannot wait.
This book sets us up with characters that we will be seeing in the future. The family dynamics and past.
December 9, 2025
Well I’m hooked. I want to see what it will take to get Callum to give in to Felicity when he’s fighting his past. I liked their connection and am interested to see where this series will go.
Both families seem great. I already love Rune and Atlas. There were a lot of Ashfords so as I get to know them better their personalities will become more apparent.
Carrie Ann Ryan knows how to write large families with interconnected stories. I am looking forward to spending time in Ashford Creek. Especially since our time in Texas has come to an end.
Thank you to CAR for the arc and this is my honest review.,
Both families seem great. I already love Rune and Atlas. There were a lot of Ashfords so as I get to know them better their personalities will become more apparent.
Carrie Ann Ryan knows how to write large families with interconnected stories. I am looking forward to spending time in Ashford Creek. Especially since our time in Texas has come to an end.
Thank you to CAR for the arc and this is my honest review.,
November 8, 2025
A great prequel to the Ashford Creek series.
The story introduces us to Callum Ashford and Felicity Carter.
Two important families of Ashford Creek.
We also get to meet Callum’s siblings as well as Felicity’s brothers.
Callum and Rune, Felicity’s brother, are best friends.
So the story is a best friends and forbidden romance.
Also looks like an opposites attract as well.
Felicity being bubbly and happy. To Callum’s grumpy and moody.
Looking forward to reading the rest of Callum and Felicity’s story in Legacy.
The story introduces us to Callum Ashford and Felicity Carter.
Two important families of Ashford Creek.
We also get to meet Callum’s siblings as well as Felicity’s brothers.
Callum and Rune, Felicity’s brother, are best friends.
So the story is a best friends and forbidden romance.
Also looks like an opposites attract as well.
Felicity being bubbly and happy. To Callum’s grumpy and moody.
Looking forward to reading the rest of Callum and Felicity’s story in Legacy.
November 8, 2025
I'm intrigued! In this short prequel novella to a brand new Ashford Creek series starting soon, Carrie Ann Ryan introduces us to Felicity and Callum and gives us a small segway into their family/friends and a little bit of the set up of the series. As a novella length, it was too short to really develop the plot and had an abrupt ending, but the setting is there and I'm hungry for more when their story continues in the first full length book in the series, Legacy. I'm looking forward to the continuation!
November 11, 2025
This is a short prequel to the Ashford Creek series and it introduces us to many of the characters we’ll be reading about. Specifically Callum Ashford and Felicity Carter and the silent crush they have on each other but won’t let the other or anyone else know about it. She’s 21 and he’s her older brother’s best friend. The age gap is an issue for him but seems not for her. This prequel is so short that you don’t really get to get invested in whatever might be going on with them but my curiosity is most definitely peaked.
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