Jump to ratings and reviews
Rate this book

Don't Date Him #4

Be The Full Problem

Rate this book
This Series will cover a brand new set of characters that are ex-cons (Or can they be ex-cons if they escape from prison?) and the one true loves. This book will be Azrael's book.

269 pages, Kindle Edition

First published April 14, 2026

Loading...
Loading...

About the author

Lani Lynn Vale

166 books7,323 followers
Lani Lynn Vale is married to the love of her life that she met in high school. She fell in love with him because he was wearing baseball pants. Ten years later they have three perfectly crazy children and a cat named Demon who likes to wake her up at ungodly times in the night. They live in the greatest state in the world, Texas. She writes contemporary and romantic suspense, and has a love for all things romance. You can find Lani in front of her computer writing away in her fictional characters world...that is until her husband and kids demand sustenance in the form of food and drink.

Ratings & Reviews

What do you think?
Rate this book

Friends & Following

Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!

Community Reviews

5 stars
503 (63%)
4 stars
203 (25%)
3 stars
67 (8%)
2 stars
15 (1%)
1 star
3 (<1%)
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews
Profile Image for Emily.
6,007 reviews560 followers
Want to Read
May 12, 2026
Nettie and Boone met in high school and were each other's world until it shattered in. a way they thought they never could come back from. There love burned for one another during the years but they never got back together. Nettie is a famous soccer player and Boone has fulfilled one of his dreams as a Park Ranger and a Veterinarian practice. The one thing that has always been consistent in their love/hate relationship is Boone's mother's hate for Nettie.

Nettie finds herself pregnant, she now has to decide if she can move past the past and build a new life with Boone. Will he feel the same way Nettie does and can they finally be a family or the danger that tore them apart in the first place still a threat?

This was not what I was expecting and in a very good way. Such a wonderful story, full of twists and turns.
Profile Image for Frances.
1,485 reviews36 followers
April 14, 2026
I knew Boone and Nettie's story would be amazing! If you've read the previous book you know they have drama but are drawn back to each other again and again. I absolutely love Nettie. She's strong but kind. I love characters that you'd think of as a friend while reading Boone is swoonworthy. His love for her is life changing. Their draw to one another even after years of pain is like no other. I have loved this series and never have an issue flying right through all of Lani Lynn Vale's books. The banter, drama, laugh out loud moments, relationships past and present are always told so well. This one is no different.
Profile Image for Brianna at Renee Entress's Blog.
3,936 reviews117 followers
April 15, 2026
5 Stars!

Lani Lynn Vale has a brand new book out in her brilliant Don't Date Him series and this one right here? Might be my favorite Lani book to date y'all. Be the Full Problem gives us Boone and Nettie's story and what a tale they told. You cannot miss out on this beauty.

Lani never disappoints when it comes to be books.. the quirk and flair she writes and this had all that.

I can definitely recommend this author and series y'all.

Reviewed for Renee Entress's Blog.
Profile Image for Darcy.
14.7k reviews547 followers
April 20, 2026
These two had quite the history, so their issues made sense. I'm just glad that they got it worked out and that the evil witch can no longer fuck with them. Loved that she got hers in the end and in the way she did. It made the ending all the happier for Boone and Nettie.
476 reviews7 followers
April 27, 2026
Nettie & Boone

A lot of Nettie and Boone’s story is told in book 3. For that reason, maybe they shouldn’t have been the next couple in the series because I’m being retold the story I just read last month. On the other hand, I’m getting old and my memory is not what it used to be and if I wait too long I might forget it all and have to reread the series. It’s a catch 22.
Nettie and Boone do not have a traditional path to romance. This couple was together before. Some might say they never broke up. They might have also been punishing themselves for things not working out as they hoped. They have a long distance relationship that’s not a relationship, they hook up, they ignore each other, they are mad but not mad; more sad than mad.
But now… they’re pregnant.
Can they get over past hurts? Current fears? And a deadly enemy in the form of Boone’s mom.
Boone’s mom is the bad guy in the story. Bad woman. Bad mom. She’s the big bad- not a baddie, she gets no respect.
The story is convoluted. There is no straightforward tale. In a way, it’s almost like Boone and Nettie don’t get a love story- because they have such a toxic family situation to deal with it overshadows the relationship. Some of the most romantic moments come during Nettie’s recovery from the car accident. Some really heart warming moments and Boone is so patient and gentle. He’s a good guy, and a great lead character.
Profile Image for Kelly  - Kelly's Book Blog.
500 reviews24 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 14, 2026
Whoa. The way this book sucked me in and had an iron grip on my heart...just whoa...so so so good!

Like every LLV book, this one had a thrilling story with interesting and relatable characters that kept me on the edge of my seat through all of the ups and downs.

Lani is a master at making me feel so many emotions and I love every second.

(Beta reader.)
Profile Image for Kodie Mackay.
1,234 reviews70 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 4, 2026
Nettie and Boone were written in the stars. Destined to ride a turbulent path that only two people whe truly loved another could survive navigating. It was genuinely heartbreaking to understand what they had to live through to get to a point where they could be with one another and even then it was not easy.

Nettie had her struggles with her family. That alone would push someone over the edge. Combine evil parents with a evil mother in law? .. let's just say it's a miracle Nettie stayed out of prison.
Netties a tough cookie. She fights back. I loved her sass and sarcasm. I loved that even though she felt broken she could still see the good in other's. She was protective, sweet and with an abundance of sass.

Boone did what he thought was best and that meant him being in pain. This man is so sweet. So attentive and supportive. He also had a raging temper that took me by surprise. That's not a negative though.. this man was protective of his and had alot to be angry for. But lord was a such a good man.

These two battled through years of trauma, separation, outside meddling and things totally out of their control. But it wasn't all bad. They truly had a great support system within. They had people who loved them hard and heavy and that with their own love for one another made it a messy but wholesome ride. The love was impossible to miss. The real moments of sorting through heavy shit? That hurt. The sweet and funny that comes with knowing a person better than anyone else? Man it was everything. Their journey was not easy but it was worth it for them.

Now... baby I am so curious about so many characters... I need to know all of this things!!!.
This serious has to be one of my favourites of Lani's to date. All the crazy unexpected and ever evolving. I want it all.

I can't wait for what's next. .... GIVE ME DENVER.

Also the epilogues .. sighs.. sighs in utter satisfaction because what's better than knowing what how and where they are now.
Profile Image for Sarah Slusarczyk .
629 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 14, 2026
We asked for it…and she delivered it. The next installment in the Don’t Hate Him saga is here with Be the Full Problem. As the fourth installment in the series, each book can be read as a standalone in the interconnected world, but as always, I recommend reading the series in order.

Boone and Nettie’s story took me for a ride. We met these two in previous books, but we didn’t get their full story until now, and boy what a story it is. These two people love each other, love each other so much that every struggle, every rocky path, every bad person that wanted to keep them apart, couldn’t. Nettie is a hard nut to crack, she has survived family drama, heartbreaking loss and evil people trying to take her down, but she persisted, she fought back. And eventually she won. Through all of that she has her sarcasm and an inner strength fueled by a support system of good people that took her back when she needed and the love of a man that would do anything (and damn well did) to protect her.

Boone is a sweet hearted man that just wants to love and care for his woman. He would do ANYTHING to protect her, even if it meant he would be without her. That type of pain, the self inflicted kind, its torture to a man like Boone. But Nettie is everything. These two fight through so much to get to the other side of it, to find their happy, and when they do it made me feel like I could finally take a deep breath. Now don’t mistake this as a book where one chapter they are fighting and the next everything is all better, no. They work through their trauma and those are hard words to read, but wading through them leads them to the place they always were meant to be. Together.

Nettie and Boone were on an adventure of discovery, their journey started when they finally were able to start the life together they both always wanted, and it was so worth the wait. I loved these characters and very much hope to see more of the series in the future.

4.5 ⭐️
2.5 🌶️

Tropes:

❤️ Second Chance
🧸 Surprise Pregnancy
❤️ Over-Protective MMC
🧸 Hurt/Comfort
Profile Image for R. Beach.
Author 6 books9 followers
May 5, 2026
Boone & Netty

The description of this book is not correct. I hate that we are going backward like she did in her early series. She'd stopped doing the weird disassociated book descriptions awhile ago and much better at not ending chapters with doom-saying cliffhangers. BUT, seems like both these returned.

This book was a bit weird, kind of all over the place.

Boone & Netty had worked out their 'separation' after years of friends who are enemies with benefit encounters. Suddenly, they were all lovey-dovey once she told him she was pregnant.

Still, all these side characters make for confusion then we have the crazy family 'not really family' with the step-mom/mom and the sister who isn't the real sister but a switched at birth baby. Then Sawyer (the dad/but not dad) who let his wife stay married to him and bilk him for millions without doing anything about it. I just, what?

Then we have the accident where she doesn't remember so late in the book. When the mom should have been in jail. Now, amnesia is a plot device we've seen before in LLV's books but this one was just unnecessary especially with them not telling Boone. And didn't really last long enough to be a part of the struggle they were overcoming.

I don't know. Maybe I'm just burnt out on LLV.

ALSO, PLEASE STOP SETTING UP THE NEXT SEVERAL COUPLES FOR MONTHLY BOOKS. Could you please just let us have a fresh start. And omg, please stop dragging in every dang couple from the series and even some series before.

I like cameo's like we got with Payton and Luca at the nursery window but now we get all the women all the men, and carry over into the books and all the women just love each other and get together and get drunk and support each other in everything they do. This is not factual and not reality. I know it's a book but some conflict is normal in life and it doesn't always have to be somebody being attacked, robbed, or kidnapped. Or a family member that is abusive.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for World Of Books 65.
3,382 reviews63 followers
Review of advance copy received from Indie Reviewers
April 14, 2026
If you’ve been hooked on the Don’t Date Him series by Lani Lynn Vale, then Be the Full Problem might just become your new favourite—and honestly, it’s easy to see why.

From the moment I read the synopsis, there was something about this fourth book that pulled me in immediately… and it absolutely delivered. This second-chance romance has shot straight to the top of my pile.

We first met Nettie and Boone in book three, and their story has been simmering beneath the surface ever since. Their relationship is the definition of complicated—childhood sweethearts turned almost-enemies, tangled in a history of love, lies, and heartbreak. They were once deeply in love, but secrets tore them apart, leaving behind wounds that never truly healed.

What makes this story so compelling is that underneath all the tension, the banter, and the pain, their love never actually disappeared. It just got buried under years of hurt and betrayal, making it feel impossible to find their way back to each other… until life intervenes in the most unexpected way.

And trust me—this book delivers twists. Nettie’s line alone—“I blame getting pregnant on my sister getting mauled by a bear”—gives you a taste of the chaos and unpredictability woven through the story. But just when you think you know where things are going, there’s another turn waiting.

Lani Lynn Vale does what she does best here: sharp banter, undeniable chemistry, and moments that hit you right in the chest. The heat is balanced perfectly with heartfelt, gut-wrenching emotion, all wrapped around a love story that refuses to die—no matter how much it’s been tested.

If you love second-chance romance with history, tension, and characters who feel real and raw, Be the Full Problem is one you don’t want to miss.
Profile Image for Renee.
5,333 reviews76 followers
April 15, 2026
I received a copy of this book from the publisher/author to review for Stephanie's Book Reports.

This is the story of Boone and Nettie. If you have been reading this series then you have seen these two in the previous books. You also know that these two already seem to have an attraction that is filled with all kinds of drama. But they just can't seem to stay away from each other. I will warn you now that once you pick this book up, you are not going to be able to lay it down. These two have also had rough lives. They have individually gone through so much. It will break your heart. Nettie really struggles with her family. She certainly has known some evil women in her life. I don't know how the girl kept her cool, but she did and survived it all. I'd have lost it on someone!!! She is a very sassy girl that never fails to see the good in other people. She will also give it as well as she gets when she has to. She is one tough cookie and you will be rooting for her through this entire book. Boone has a huge heart and he is the best listener and takes such good care of those he cares about. He is a big old teddy bear with a temper!! However, he sure had a reason to be angry. So I'm surprised he wasn't angry at the entire world and taking it out on everyone he knows. I can't tell you anything else about his book. I don't want to ruin a thing. You just need to get it and enjoy the ride. You will not be able to put it down.

Profile Image for Tracey.
987 reviews18 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 8, 2026
wordpress

Y'all, the way that I loved this book. There were snippets of Nettie and Boone in NOT A SIDE CHICK, but I was absolutely not prepared for how much I was going to love them. As usual, Lani Lynn Vale has given readers a unique, creative, and heartwarming read, and I am so here for it.

In finally getting the whole backstory of what happened between Nettie and Boone, it's easy to see how they've become frenemies with a past. But what a past, one built on love that has endured tragedy and loss, and still burns on. This book is one of my favorites in this series, and maybe one of my most favorite LLV books ever. I love it that much, and given the sheer volume of books Lani has written, that is saying something.

I think that sharing too much of the plot is a disservice to readers, because part of the magic of Lani's books is reading a page and thinking, 'where the heck does she come up with this stuff?!' I can only say that I continue to marvel at her imagination and her ability to give us stories that are sexy, sweet, action-packed, and that stay with us.

It's best to have read the other books in the series, but even if you haven't make sure that this one is at the top of your TBR. You will not be sorry.
Profile Image for Lynn Brooks.
3,608 reviews45 followers
April 14, 2026
Tumultuous at it’s best! Nettie Wheeler has loved Boone Windsor for what feels like her entire life, but she refuses to let him be a part of her life in any meaningful way. Once bitten, twice shy as they say. High school sweethearts turned virtual strangers while life continues to turn around them and heartbreak continues to fester year after year. Both characters have a strong backstory on their own and a really powerful one together. I liked them both and felt for them for the suffering they went through apart and the turmoil they are living now. I enjoyed their reunion that eventually comes about and the drama that unfolds. I wanted a little more to be told about her parents ugliness considering what we learned in her twin sis Eddy’s book. Many twists and turns and so much drama and gossip to sink your teeth into. I can’t wait for more of this series! This particular book isn’t about one of the freed convicts, but it’s about Eddy’s sister who we met in the previous story. The amnesia side of the story didn’t add much to the plot and really could have been skipped.

I highly recommend this book as well as the entire series to anyone who loves a juicy, far fetched and dramatic telling as passion ignites, friends and family rally around and drama holds center stage as a happily ever after is achieved beautifully.
Profile Image for Angels.
2,164 reviews17 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 8, 2026
Nettie and Boone's love story was destined, but not without its challenges. Nettie faced family struggles and had to navigate through difficult relationships. Despite her tough exterior, she had a kind heart and a strong spirit. Boone, on the other hand, was sweet and supportive but also had a fierce temper when it came to protecting his loved ones.

Their journey was filled with trauma, separation, and external interference, but they had a strong support system that helped them weather the storm. Nettie and Boone's love for each other was undeniable, and they shared both difficult and joyful moments. This couple's chemistry was pure fire. The witty banter and Nettie's wicked sense of humor added laughable moments to so serious situations.

My only criticism is that we were slightly disappointed that we never got to the why of it all, and the craziness of Boonie's mother's actions and deeds, and what made that woman tick.

The characters are intriguing, leaving readers eager to learn more about their stories. I'm eager to see what happens next! The story came with its unexpected twists and turns, and an evolving storyline, and I couldn't put it down, reading it in one sitting.
Profile Image for Flavs is Mrs David Gandy♥~♥’.
3,493 reviews2 followers
Review of advance copy
April 13, 2026
Aah Nettie and Boone were definitely fated to be together. From the previous books you will see that these two had a tumultuous relationship. You didn’t know if they hated each other or loved each other, but in this book all you felt was love 😊

Nettie is the sister of Eddy (from the previous story), and they didn’t have a good childhood. And when she got together with Boone when they were in high school, she added his evil mother to her list as well. A lot of things happened between Boone and Nettie, and she left and became a soccer star.

But over the years they just couldn't stay away from each other and would always gravitate to each other. Until Nettie finds out she is pregnant. To her it feels like history will be repeating itself. But Boone knows that this time nothing will stand in his way of being with the love of his life and his baby 😊

As always with a LLV story, I didn’t want to leave this world! Boone and Nettie were amazing together. And even with that evil mother-in-law and her antics and all the drama that came with it, I loved every minute of it. Even that little suspense thrown in there was definitely a plus. I am hooked on this new series and don’t know who my favorite couple is 😊

Read on behalf of
Fay’s Corner
Profile Image for thehotmesslibrary.
840 reviews21 followers
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
April 13, 2026
Be The Full Problem by Lani Lynn Vale is book 4 in the “Don’t Date Him’ series and focuses on Boone and Nettie and boy is it a story filled with angst and drama. If you have read previous books, you are going to have a little bit of a backstory on the two and the love/hate, push pull that they both have for each other. But when you delve into this book, you are going to get more of the backstory on how they ended up where they did and how the drama continues from there, especially when Nettie finds out that her life is going to change forever…again.

This story had all the feels and although Boone and Nettie are perfect for each other, their love seems to be challenged at every stop, especially by Boone’s psycho mother and his sister (lots of drama there!) and the drama that they bring is full on and vindictive at points. At times this book is going to make you tear up with just how sad it is and also tear up just because it is such a lovely book to read!

ARC received for a fair, honest and sometimes long review. All opinions are my own. 😊

More of my reviews can be found on my blog: http://thehotmesslibrary.blogspot.com
Profile Image for Alphas Do It Better Book Blog .
3,753 reviews100 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
April 14, 2026
5 Stars

Be The Full Problem is book four in the Don’t Date Him series by Lani Lynn Vale and is now my new favorite in the series. We get introduced to Boone and Nettie as a “couple” (you’ll see why I say it like that lol) in the previous book. They have a love/hate/love relationship. They hate to love and love to hate each other, but can never stay away either. These two have so much history and it’s definitely not pretty at all. These two were written in the stars because no one could survive everything these two have gone through and are still being put through throughout this entire story. Boone is definitely my favorite heroes in this series. The man loves hard and will protect everything that’s his with his life.

This story is everything and more. The banter, the chemistry, even the twists and turns you don’t see coming. It’s everything a typical LLV story brings. She sets up the next story seamlessly and I cannot wait for Denver’s book! This author is hands down one of my all time favorites and an automatic one click for me no matter what.

Angela - Alphas Do It Better Book Blog
Profile Image for Heidi Sturgess.
1,169 reviews22 followers
April 16, 2026
If ever evil had a name it would be Gail if you think the previous parentals were delinquents they’ve found their match 🤮the minister and his wife were really bad and it’s no surprise they were in cahoots with Gail 🤯🤷‍♀️🙈

While I missed interaction with Apollo ( we did get a little Apollo time though) I’m happy the focus was on Boone and Nettie because I had so many questions and they were all answered ( heaved a sigh of relief I suffer with fomo ) and these two have been through more than their fair share and they deserve every ounce of happiness 🥰

Just as I think things have come to head I realise there’s more reading time so what a spoil and it just shows you how coniving and depraved Gail , she’s one sick chicken !

The Dixie Wardens are simply the best and a group of love to have behind me as support .

There were a few times my heart shattered into pieces thanks to Gail but there was also a moment we had to say goodbye to a special lady and yes I sobbed but I know she left with a happy heart because she got to meet Ida and her great granbaby so her life was full 🥰

So looking forward to the next instalment 🥰📚


Profile Image for Michele A..
3,196 reviews16 followers
May 29, 2026
Nettie and Boone had quite a drama filled relationship with they were teenagers. Things went badly and Nettie ran away and plays soccer for a living. Boone runs his vet practice and has also realized his dream of becoming a park ranger. Things take another turn for them and Nettie has to decide whether to try and be together. I will say that most of this book was disjointed. I knew most of their story from the last book so it was kind of repetitious. Boone's mother was horrible. I still couldn't understand why no one did anything. Her husband was rich and had the means to fight her. Then there were the other OTT dramas that were throughout this book. It had enough going on without all the excess drama for the sake of drama. There were inconsistencies (Boone went to her games, but his mother, who knew where he was at all times, didn't know?) Um, no. The constant reminder that she didn't look pregnant got real old, real fast. I still don't understand why it was put in the book over and over again. Neither one of them seemed the most emotionally stable. I did like the ending for them. Just wish the book had more of them finding their way and way less drama.
Profile Image for Kylee.
3,046 reviews59 followers
March 23, 2026
Hold onto your heart with this one as both the characters and the storyline are going to steal it. Boone and Nettie have a history so deep that there is no way the can entangle themselves from it and deep down neither of them want to. The banter between the two is just their way of playing off the larger emotions that swirl and surround these two. The heartache that these two of endured at the hands of one women is immeasurable. However just when it feels like these two might just get the happiness they deserve, it is stolen away from them again. Boone and Nettie's story keeps you on the edge of your seat, holding your breath and biting your nails down to nothing. The chemistry, connection and passion that runs between these two is what will keep hope at the forefront just when it all seems lost. A story that will take you through every emotion possible and then some. Nettie is a character that you just can't help but love and admire and when you find out all the things that Boone has done throughout the years, he will show you what love and devotion is all about. This is one of those books that you literally will not be able to put down.
Profile Image for Sara.
756 reviews8 followers
Review of advance copy
April 1, 2026
I somehow always love every book that Lani Lynn Cale writes.

I love how she always makes her heroines so unique and amazing! This book definitely did not disappoint!

Antoinette Wheeler AKA Nettie, is a professional soccer player. She met the love of her life, Bartholomew Windsor AKA Boone, when she was 14 and he was 15. They both had a rough time as kids but found solace in each other. Things all went a bit pear shaped though when Nettie got pregnant at 17.

Now, years later, Nettie finds herself back in Montana with the love of her life because she can’t seem to stay away from him. Their love is still very much alive, but extenuating circumstances are testing them at every turn.

This book was awesome! I loved Margery’s character as the matriarch of the Windsor family. I, of course, loved the banter between the characters. And I loved that Boone’s character was a veterinarian!

I can’t get enough of this series and will be waiting on bated breath for the next book!
Profile Image for Renee Entress.
5,655 reviews79 followers
April 14, 2026
5 star

I was pulled right into this story. The story has pain, abuse, twists & turns, secrets, and heartbreak.

If you have not read the below I would recommend reading those books(s) first
House of BS & Lies (Don't Date Him #1)
People We Avoid (Don't Date Him #2)
Not A Side Chick (Don't Date Him #3)

This is Nettie and Boone’s story. These two have history. His mother ruined what they had. Now years later they are in the same situation with her being with child. Can they make it work this time? After all they have loved each other since they were young. Seems like they are fighting to be together but this time neither one of them is willing to give up. Noone is going to get in the way. Boone will make sure of it. This is the future he has always wanted and he is going to make sure they get it.

A little side note was good that we got a peek at a character from a different series. Maybe a few more peeks in future books. I love popups.

I highly recommend this book.
Profile Image for Megan.
1,405 reviews2 followers
April 14, 2026
I absolutely devoured this one!!! It was a true one sit read/listen for me!! I was so excited for Boone and Nettie’s book!! I was not disappointed one bit!!

I found myself laughing and getting the chuckles!! This author does such a great job of balancing the heavy with the light!!

I did listen and read at the same time!!! It’s my new favorite reading experience!! If you are an audio lover you will love this one!!! The narrators were fantastic. They brought even more life to the authors great story!!

This one has definitely been my favorite of the series so far!! This book can be read as a complete standalone but if you want to get the full experience of Boone and Nettie I’d read Not a Side Chick first! They are not the main characters of that book, but you will see them quite a bit in that story. Plus it was also a great read!!

I definitely recommend this one! Especially if you like small town, secret baby, second chance, grumpy/sunshine, suspenseful romances!
Profile Image for Franci N (Franci's Fabulous Reads).
2,419 reviews102 followers
April 14, 2026
5 She Was THE Person Stars!!

I’m loving this series and with this book Boone and Nettie finally get their HEA. It was long time in the making but so worth it. We go on quite the journey with these two and the history they have that started when they were so much younger. The thing about their love is that as much as they’ve hurt each other in the past, the deep abiding and consuming love has never been in question. It’s a matter of them getting out of their own way.

LLV delivered big with this book. The witty banter is on point. The sexy times are so sizzling that my heart was racing. Their connection is unlike any they’ve experienced with others. But their families are WOWZA and not in a good way. I swear every time something happened I thought it couldn’t get worse… but it did!

Boone and Nettie paired up can conquer the world and their love is destiny personified. This is a must read book. If you haven’t already started this series, now is the time!
Profile Image for Kari Hansen.
12.7k reviews95 followers
May 2, 2026
Nettie and her sister Eddy endured a difficult homelife and when it came to Boone, her first and only love, that holds true as well. They fell in love when they were teenagers however they were torn apart by evil forces and the that has stayed the same except for the occasional night when the feelings she has for him reach a crescendo.

When Boone found himself in an untenable situation he made the only decision that he thought he could even if it meant breaking both their hearts. When circumstances bring them together once again this time he isn’t about to let the mistakes of the past repeat themselves and he will do whatever is necessary to protect Nettie even if that means going against the people who tore them apart the first time.

Despite the hostility between Nettie and Boone everyone in their lives know that isn’t the case. The romance between them is filled with angst and turmoil as they fight for their second chance.
Profile Image for Nicole.
4,331 reviews54 followers
April 14, 2026
After the last book in the series I've so been looking forward to Nettie and Boone's story. There is so much history between the two and we get the backstory. There is no denying how much these two care about one another. I was so into this book that one morning with the house to myself I devoured it within fours hours. It was everything I wanted this book to be. Nettie is girlboss vibes all the way and Boone is there for the ride of support. Plus all his protectiveness comes out with Nettie's news. It wouldn't be a book in this series without the evil characters that keep me on the edge of my seat. I love the grey area these characters live in. This brotherhood of Ex-cons keeps me coming back. Every book I read in this series it just keeps getting better. Obviously this one is going to be hard to top because I literally couldn't put this down and read it in one morning. A must read!!!
Profile Image for Wendy Livingstone.
20.6k reviews260 followers
April 14, 2026
This is the fourth book in this phenomenal series, and this is Boone and Nettie’s story.
These two were together in high school but were torn apart by circumstances, and Nettie left town, with no intention of returning. Nettie is Eddy’s sister, and they did not have a great upbringing, but when a bear attacks Eddy, Nettie comes home to check on her, and when she crosses paths with Boone in a bar, the sparks fly, and a 1-night stands has consequences.
This is a well written action packed, emotional roller coaster story, with family, friendships, tension, drama, determination, survival, challenges, second chances, humour, witty banter, antics, romance, and undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, and unpredictable, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
257 reviews2 followers
April 20, 2026
Boone and Nettie finally! We met them in the other books and knew that they had a love hate relationship because of their past and Boone's mother doing anything she can to keep them apart, oh the trauma she created. Nettie left to chase her soccer dreams, college and to escape the trauma believing that Boone did not realize what his mother had done. Boone spends years protecting and watching Nettie. He has realized along the way that his mother was crazy, vengeful and destroying the family and he has a plan.
When they spend time together due to friends and family being connected, it is explosive. Now that Nettie is home they realize they can not stay away from each other and Nettie has a little surprise that forces them to act on that plan.
This is such a good story you won't be able to put it down!
Profile Image for Storied Conversation.
650 reviews669 followers
Review of advance copy
April 13, 2026
Nettie and Boone completely stole my heart. Their story is emotional, messy, and filled with years of love, pain, and everything in between.

Once you understand their past, it’s impossible not to root for them. Nettie is strong, sassy, and resilient, while Boone is protective, loyal, and deeply devoted, even when it costs him. Their journey isn’t easy, but their love is undeniable.

This book had me feeling everything; heartbreak, hope, and so much love. Definitely one of my favorite books in the series and one of my favorite Lani Lynn Vale reads overall.

________

Thank you Lani Lynn Vale and Give Me Books Promotions for providing me with an ARC of the book. All opinions are my own.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 89 reviews