Wild Promises: A Single Dad, Brother's Best Friend Romance

by Elle Mariah

Olivia Mitchell is wild at heart, sharp-tongued, and fiercely loyal—especially when it comes to her family. As the youngest Mitchell sibling, she’s spent her whole life proving she’s more than just the baby of the bunch. Falling for her brother’s best friend? That’s a secret even she doesn’t know how to keep.

Sebastian Daniels thrives on control. Once the golden boy with the world at his feet, life hit hard and left him quiet and more guarded than ever. Now juggling a new role as Superintendent, and single dad, he lives for routine—until Olivia barrels in with her bold questions, chaotic playlists, and a favour he swears he doesn’t need: babysitting his son. And the more she slips into his carefully managed world, the harder it is to deny how much he relies on her.

Their connection is reckless. Forbidden. Addictive. What starts as a line they swore they’d never cross turns into glances that linger too long, touches that burn too hot, and a love that could unravel everything if it’s not handled carefully. But everyone knows Wattle Creek is a small town, and secrets never stay quiet for long.

So, between the lies they tell and the truths they can’t deny, love is the wildest promise of all.
___
Wild Promises is the fifth and final book in the Wattle Creek Series. This book is part of interconnected standalones, and while it can be read separately, it is encouraged to read the series in order.

Genres: Romance, Small Town Romance, Westerns

382 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 27, 2026

About the author

When she’s not curled up in a cosy corner with a good book and an unhealthy amount of coffee, Elle Mariah is dreaming up swoon-worthy stories filled with raw emotion, witty banter, and painfully relatable characters just trying to find their happily ever afters.

A Creative Arts educator by day, she’s spent the past four years teaching young minds to see the magic in art and literature. But in 2024, she finally took a leap of faith—swapping lesson plans for love stories—and began writing the kinds of books she’s always adored. Now, Elle inspires not just in the classroom, but through the fictional worlds she brings to life, one messy, heartfelt romance at a time.

Reviews

[R. · Rating 4 out of 5]

ซิงเกิ้ลแด๊ด(34)xแนนนี่(27)

นางเอกโซไล้เกเบิ้ลเลยwa น้องสาวคนเล็กที่โตมากับพี่ชายสองคน
เพราะงั้นก้ไม่ซอฟใสอะ รับมือความกรัมปี้ของพระเอกสบายๆ
แล้วพอลูกชายวันห้าขวบของพระเอกเป็น autistic spectrum disorder
มันก็เพิ่มความดรามาติกของคสพ.ของทั้งสามคนดี
เพราะลูกชายพระเอกเปิดใจให้นางเอกภายในไม่กี่วีค แบบที่แนนนี่คนก่อนหน้าที่อยุ่มาหลายปียังทำไม่ได้
คือสนุกอะ ชอบครึ่งแรกมากๆๆๆๆ

แต่จบที่สี่ดาวแบบเกือบๆ จะสี่จุดสองห้า เพราะครึ่งหลังสำหรับเรามันดรอป เอาเปนว่าพอรุ้จากรีวิวว่ามันมี grovel ก้เลยคาดหวัง
ละสิ่งที่ได้มันไม่เท่าที่หวังละกัน55555 ฟีลว่ามันก้โอเค้ ผมจอยยู้ มีฉากแตกหัก(ซึ่งแอบ weak imo) มีฉากนางเอกตอกหน้า ยื่นคำขาด มีฉากพระเอกคิดได้ พระเอกง้อ ทุ่มสุด all in ก้จริง แต่ไม่สาแก่ใจพอแฮะ underwhelming ไปนิส

นอกนั้นก็ minor หรือ me issues ประปราย ปมนางเอกไม่ต้องใส่มาก้ได้ ไม่จำเปน แต่ชอบตัวละครสมทบในเรื่องนะ เยอะ เปนสิบ แต่บันเทิง คสพ.พระนางกะตลค.เหล่านี้ก็ดี ยิ่งพี่ชายนางเอกเนี่ยน่ารักก ทำให้อยากย้อนไปอ่านเล่มพ่กนังเลยล่ะ

spice: 3/5

[r 💜☔️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

AS AN ARC READER,
loved! such a cutesy little small town farm girl romance 💗

also he was a police officer, and a FINEE one at that.

ALSO SHE LOVES THE ROOKIE?? I LOVE THE ROOKIE!!!!

[Jessika · Rating 5 out of 5]

I BINGED this book in a day. In an evening almost.

Thoughts:

Perfection. No notes. All the stars.

I mean if you have been aroundnling enough, you'll know i LOVE this series. Have from day one.

But to finally read Olivia's story!? YEEESSSS
She is truly wild, fun and a bright personality. I feel inspired to be more like her.

And we finally got the single dad trope. YES. As a wife who is obsessed with her husband and seeing him be a father, and as a woman who lives her romance stories, it's no wonder I love a good single dad trope.

Sebastian. Bash. DADDY BASH. He's a busy cop trying to make a living, do good deeds, and do the absolute best for his kid. This man DESERVES to let his heart heal and find love.

And of course when he needs a new sitter and the person who turns up at his door is his best mate (and work colleague) younger sister....
**giggles in happy reader**

Just wait for the grovelling 🥹🥵

P.s. we all agree red cars go fastest yes?

[Kimberly Blackburn · Rating 5 out of 5]

Olivia is working on her family farm when she goes to hardware store for a supply run. She sees an ad for “nanny wanted” and takes a photo, thinking about making a change in her life. Sebastian is looking for nanny after the previous one leaves unexpectedly. His 5 year old son Teddy is autistic and he needs to stick to a routine to be comfortable. Olivia shows up at his house but Sebastian didn’t place the ad- his sister did. They are surprised to see each other because Sebastian is friends with and works with her brother Bradley.

Olivia starts her nanny job and she is pushing the boundaries and rules set by Sebastian. He is jealous when he gets home and she is ready for a date with someone else. The two of them try to hold back feelings until the heat bubbles over.

The two main characters are exactly what the other needs. Sebastian is so concerned with taking care of Teddy that he isn’t living for himself and Olivia needs to find a place where she has meaning. I love how Teddy opens up for Olivia and then to the rest of the family. I need to go back and read the other books in the series now that I’ve fallen for these characters.

[Melissa Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.25⭐'s rounded up
Wild promises is the last book in the interconnected Wattle Creek series. I truly believe they saved the best for last. There is nothing better than a single dad romance. The love between the father and child shows who he truly is on the inside. This book was so for me because of Teddy. This little boy stole my soul! The growth throughout the book was just beautiful. The ASD representation, was close to my heart and was represented beautifully. Sebastian and Olivia are completely opposite, yet fit each other perfectly. The slow burn and chemistry is electric. I read through this book in one sitting. I laughed, cried, screamed at my kindle and swooned. This was a definite must read for me!

[Ashy Khaira · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one completely pulled me in without even trying. There’s just something about a small town setting mixed with a single dad and the added complication of him being her brother’s best friend that makes everything feel a little more intense. It’s messy, emotional, and full of those quiet moments that sneak up on you when you least expect it.
What really stood out for me was how the relationship wasn’t just about the two of them. The way she connects with his son, especially knowing he has autism, was handled with so much care that it genuinely felt warm and real instead of forced. Those moments added so much depth to the story and made everything hit harder. Add in how the story unfolds and pulls at every emotional thread, and it easily becomes one of those books that just stays with you.

[Alva Schwung · Rating 5 out of 5]

ok I started reading 3 books today nothing stuck. jumped into this one and yeah I was hooked from the start. it was just? so fucking light. it made me happy. and fuck if we all don’t deserve that sometimes. is it groundbreaking? no. but I don’t even give a fuck anymore it’s vibes bro, pure vibes. and they were vibing at an all time high. so, 5 fkn stjärnor för gull, fluff och söta barn. or im just ovulating och har barnlängtan så det skriker om det.

[amyj91.reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was such a heartwarming story, I loved olivia and teddy together to the trust she built with Sebastian’s son was adorable. I’ll even forgive the third act break up because i was rooting for this little found family so much. I need to go back and read the other books in this series. Also who doesn’t love a grumpy single dad 😉

[liezl · Rating 5 out of 5]

Thanks to Love notes PR and Elle Mariah for this ARC!! 🩷
This book was exactly what I needed to get out of my reading slumb! What a story and such lovable characters!
They both have my heart and Teddy (you are the sweetest person in the world)

This story will make you feel so much emotions, an easy 5 star read because it made me tear up in the ending, the drawing was the last drop🥹🩷

[Chelsea K Rinehart · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was:
-Farm girl/Cop boy!
-Brother's BFF!
-Single Dad!
-Spectrum disorder rep!
-Forbidden romance!
-She's his nanny!
-Age gap!

This book was captivating and forbidden. It was a fun ARC read. Sebastian and Olivia, she becomes the nanny and the bond she builds with Teddy is so sweet and how couldn’t Sebastian fall for her!

[Sienasummerrreads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This follows Olivia, who helps on her family farm but decides to do something for herself. She takes a nanny job from a notice board, only to discover it’s for Sebastian her brother’s best friend who is completely off-limits.

I really enjoyed this book! It was my first book by Elle Mariah and definitely won’t be my last. I loved how the story centred around Sebastian’s five-year-old autistic son, Teddy, who is the sweetest little boy. The bond that forms between Olivia and Teddy was heart-melting, and watching Sebastian realise what was happening right in front of him was beautiful. He may seem hard on the outside, but his inner thoughts about Olivia are full of raw emotion.

Olivia is fierce, fun, and flirty, with a personality that lights up the room. The way she helps Teddy come out of his shell and feel safe was just so special to read.

I loved this character-driven storyline and look forward to reading more of Elle’s work in the near future!

Genre/Type: Adult Romance 18+
APK: Kindle ARC
Pages: 382
Rating: 🌟🌟🌟🌟.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Spicy Chapters: 25, 27, 28, 29, 30 and 41
POV: First Person
Series or Standalone: Book Five In The Wattle Creek Series
Tropes or Themes: Small Town, Single Dad, Brother’s Best Friend, Age Gap (7yrs), Nanny, Opposites Attract, Grumpy Sunshine, Slow Burn, She Falls First He Falls Harder, Autism Rep (ASD), Passing Notes , Grovelling, Dances In The Rain, Sexual Content, Dirty Talk, Praise, Oral Play, Taken Bare, Mirror Scene, Bath Scene and Sixty Nine Scene.
Check Triggers ⚠️ 💫

Kind Regards
All Round Romance Reader 
Sienasummerrreads 💕📚
TikTok | Instagram | Goodreads | StoryGraph | Fable | Margins | Pagebound | Amazon | Audible Reviews 💫

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a beautiful end to a wonderful series!

[Angela · Rating 5 out of 5]

Talk about saving the best for last! This book had everything I needed and more. First and foremost, single dad AND brothers best friend - GIMME GIMME! Then you add that forced proximity element with Olivia being the new babysitter, and BAM, just like that, we have a masterpiece. From start to finish, i just knew this book was going to take me on a journey, amd omg did it ever! I laughed, I smiled, I cried and I felt all the soft, loud, chaotic, fun, sweet love that was molded into the pages. This book really was like one big warm hug (except for when it was hurting my heart - Elle you did me dirty with those few moments). From the love Sebastian & Olivia shared, their love as a family with Teddy, to all the other loves that came before them in books 1-4. It truely was the best way to wrap up the Wattle Creek series.

Sebastian & Olivia's connection just had a way of feeling so simple and easy. Nothing ever felt forced and its like they molded into one another. She was the loud to his quiet but together they brought out the other side of each other. Sebastian started to live again and Olivia was able to find some calm and rhythm in her life that she had always been seeking. Their love never needed to be loud and in your face, it came in the quiet moments when they were just spending time together or creating the sweetest little family without even realising it was happening. They had the most fun, playful banter, that still managed to take you by surprise. But above all else, for me it was all the moments with Teddy that made this book what it was. It had such a large tone of family and love right from the drop.

Olivia is one of those firecrackers you can't help but love. She is loud and so unafraid of being who she is. She's loyal, sweet, kind and caring with a whole heck of spice and sass thrown in the mix too. I feel like in some ways I can relate to her, especially in the way she feels so unsure of who she is and what she wants to be at times. But yet she still has a way of lighting up a room. She is the Wild One of the group. Despite her chaos she has a way of bringing the calm. She just has an energy about her that so clearly rubbed off onto both Sebastian & Teddy. She slotted into their home and life so perfectly. But through it all, I loved seeing her stay true to herself and not altering herself for anyone.

Sebastian is the perfect mix of broody, kind, caring, grumpy, sexy and sweet. And on top of that he is the best Dad to sweet little Teddy. He thrives off structure and the calm of things and generally likes to keep within his own bubble. He is a tough nut to crack but once you start peeling back those layers you get a fun loving, carefree kind of man. I swooned and melted over so many of his one liners. Honestly I was like Liv, being completely caught off guard by him. He had to go on a bit of journey to get back to himself in this book and grovel like no tomorrow, but he did it in such a him kind of way. He showed up when he knew he needed to be there and brought himself as a package deal with Teddy to express his love.

Omg sweet little Teddy. That boy held my heart from the very beginning. There was something so sweet, gentle, timid and beautiful about all that he was. He was a HUGE part of this story and I loved that he was always there for all the big moments. And of course he had to make me all kinds of emotional, not once but twice. He added so much to this book and I feel like him, combined with Sebastian & Olivia, made this story what it was.

I loved the way Elle brought everyone back into the fold in this book too. All the characters we have loved from the first 4 books added their own little touch throughout this book and it was just so good to see all the family together in that final epilogue. They may be loud and chaotic but you can't help but adore all that they are.

You know a book is going to be a 5 star read when you are thinking that well before the 50% mark. And thats what this book was - the easiest 5 ⭐️ read for sure! It broke me and healed me in all the best ways. I adored everything about Sebastian & Olivia. Elle, you really out-did yourself with this one 💚

Thank you so much to Elle & Love Notes for sending an arc copy of this book!

[Tru_lybookish · Rating 4 out of 5]

“She's chaos. Untouchable. Glorious.”

__ __ __ __ __ __
Olivia is the youngest sibling, and has always been out of place, not able to find “what is hers”. Working on the family farm isn’t enough anymore, so she decides to take a babysitting gig listed from a flyer. When she shows up to the house, not only is an incredibly handsome police officer, but her brother's colleague and best friend. Of course their relationship will be strictly professional… of course! But falling in love with this father and son duo turns out to be the easiest thing she’s ever done.
__ __ __ __ __ __

It took me a while to get into the story - my initial thoughts of the FMC were too young and not likeable - but this could have been because it was my first dive into the series and I did not gain insight from previous reads. By 30% I was absolutely hooked and did not put it down. As the FMC develops a relationship with the MMC and his son, Teddy, we see her bright and wild side - along with how supportive and grounding she is with the little quirks an autistic child (ASD) brings with outside care. The relationship that was developed really stole my heart and completely melted me at times. I NEEDED this found family feeling to be true and was obsessed.

“The way he says my name - low, rough, and strained - sounds like it's caught somewhere between a warning and a goddamn prayer”.

Then there was Sebastian *Bash* - eeek [swoon, kick & giggle]! The relationship that blossomed here was so addicting. It was slow, homey, and just so natural. The chemistry was so smooth and the forbidden underlay/flirty banter really just had me smiling and flipping those pages! Mariah even had me physically upset prior to some heavy groveling by our guarded MMC (that was definitely needed), but it was all worth it!

Overall, I would recommend it for any romance readers who love good. This was my first Elle Mariah read, and although this was the last of the Wattle Creek Series, I will be going back and reading the novels from the other Michaels' siblings.

Not particularly fond of…
FMC at the start of the book seemed too young and immature for me, but really changed when she started looking after Teddy. At that point I felt like she was a whole new character!
I did find areas of the plot unnecessary or too long.

Full review found on Goodreads/Fable.
Swipe for tropes and such.

GRUMPY VS SUNSHINE | SINGLE DAD | BROTHER’S BEST FRIEND | OFFLIMITS | SECRET LOVE | BABYSITTER | FORCED PROXIMITY | FARM LIFE | POLICE WORKER | SLOW BURN | TENSION | FALLS IN LOVE WITH HIS KID | STEPMOM GOALS | AUTISM | ROMANCE READS | SLOW BURN ROMANCE | SPICY READING | LOVE | SECOND CHANCE | FOUND FAMILY | COMFORT READ | HEA

Visit my Bookstagram for photos and more reviews!

[Daniela Hernandez · Rating 5 out of 5]

Wild Promises by Elle Mariah. 5 ⭐️ | 3 🌶️
Thanks to Love Notes PR and the author for the ARC!
 Single dad x Babysitter
 Forced Proximity
 ASD Rep
 She falls first, he falls HARDER.
 Slow Burn
 Small town romance
 Found Family

"Real love doesn’t ask for perfection. It asks for honesty. For the fight, the choosing, the showing up. For the kind of surrender that feels like freedom. Love isn’t simple. It’s a risk. A leap. A wild promise I never saw coming and the only one I will never let go of."

A single dad x babysitter romance?, and she’s his best friend's little sister?, and there’s an age gap?, and we have all the characters from Wattle Creek series together? I’m seated for this!

I absolutely loved this book. I feel like it was the perfect closure for the series.
Olivia has been one of my favorite characters since book one, and it was a nice thing to read her book, getting to know her better. Where everyone sees a girl full of energy and sarcastic comments, in this book, we have the chance to see more of WHO Olivia really is. A young woman trying to find a real passion, a younger sister trying to make something by herself, so she can stop living under the shadow of her family’s name, and not being known just as the sister of Xavier and Bradley Mitchell. And also, she’s a person trying to find love, and not because she’s desperate or in need of it, but because she wants to someone who belongs to her and that she can also belong to. Olivia is expecting to find something that consumes her and not only because it’s something she needs, but just like every other person, she wants to know how it feels like to have that kind of love, the one we only can find in movies or books.

Oh Olivia, just you wait.

Now, let’s talk about Sebastian Daniels, because oh my God, that man! I’ve loved every single MMC but I think Sebastian takes the first place. After how things changed for him, and the little we knew about him from previous mentions, I was not expecting this! The way he loves Teddy, how he’s concern about his environment, this guy is the ultimate dad! It was very reasonable and easy to understand the struggles and the feelings he was dealing with. He not only had to worry about finding something for himself, but he had to be sure that whatever it happened, didn’t hurt Teddy in the process.

And talking about Teddy. This book felt like a call to my heart. As a mom of a little boy who has been diagnosed with autism, every scene, every interaction with Teddy, I felt like I was reading the daily routine I have with my boy. Normally, I’m very careful to choose books with this kind of rep, because I have to admit I haven’t had the best experiences, but Elle managed this in a beautiful, careful and wholesome way.

Olivia and Sebastian’s connection was beautiful and firesome. It was like the perfect combination of two individuals who couldn’t be more different. In some way, they were meant to each other, they managed to brought out the different sides of each other. It was lovely to see that Sebastian allowed himself to love and be loved again, and it was amazing that Olivia finally found that all-consuming, can’t breathe without you, kind of love that she was seeking. Both of them and Teddy created this perfect little union without even realizing it was happening.

I loved the way Elle brought all the gang back together for one last book, there was nothing better to know how everyone was doing, living their happy lives. I mean, the epilogue was BEUATIFUL.

I laughed, I cried sad and happy tears. This book was an absolute 5 stars!
I can’t wait to see more from Elle’s work!

[One Loves Reading · Rating 5 out of 5]

🚜 Wattle Creek Seriws 5

Olivia & Sebastian love story is single dad and baby sitter romance. ADORABLE moments from Sebastian's son Teddy. Teddy has ASD even with his silence and patterns. He doesn't trust easily due to his mam... no spoliers. Teddy's journey I really love it, and his story has been written beautifully and spread more awareness about ASD 🧩

" His gaze drags over me again, slow and full of disbelief. “Of all the people in Wattle Creek…” His eyes land on my boots, then flick back to my face. “You.” “Yup.” I shrug. “Me.” "

I just love their first meet in their very Casablanca 🥃 Even thou they known each other for years through her brother..it's still a surpise because the wanted Babysitter notice didn't have his name on it...get start to their story a mystery to OH brothers best friend what can go wrong or should I say could get very hot...no spoliers

“This is a dangerous game you’re playing, Trouble.” I turn around, smile curving. “You always say that. But you never say no.”

Olivia and Sebastian are at different stages in their lives. Olivia wants to find a new job that is outside her family farm. Sebastian just wants the best for his son, especially his healing from the past...no spoliers Sebastian is a fantastic dad when it came to Teddy's patterns and how important it is for his mental health. Olivia came into the picture, and she just patiently waited for him to open up to her.

🐾 Diesel Teddy's dog was another one to earn trust. Dogs are the best when it comes to caring for the ones they love. Olivia came part of his world too, even with the scary start when they first meet...no spoliers

Their love story is more about love between couple. A love that can bring 4 (Diesel 🐾) live together and create a safe space full of laughter and love.


"Real love doesn’t ask for perfection. It asks for honesty. For the fight, the choosing, the showing up. For the kind of surrender that feels like freedom. Love isn’t simple. It’s a risk. A leap. A wild promise I never saw coming, and the only one I’ll never let go of."


☆MUST READ & FAV☆
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶🌶🌶

📚 Book Trope
🐕 Dog Diesel (ex service dog)
🐐 Goat Kevin
💖 Single Dad x Babysitter
🤭 Brothers Best Friend
🏡 Small Town
💞 Forced Proximity
🕰️ Age Gap Romance
🎗️ ASD Rep
🐮 Cowgirl/Farmer x Police Officer
🥰 She Falls First He Falls Harder

[Maria · Rating 4 out of 5]

I had a great time reading this book! Love the tropes and they worked out well.
4.5, great book, no relevant complains, enjoyed the romantic development & the characters. Not 5 stars because while I still really adored reading it, I wouldn’t say it’s gonna stuck sooooo much with me. Anyways, great read!

Teddy was a joy to read. Truly a wonderful kid. I really enjoy meeting kids in books and seeing their personalities, and how they interact with their family members. Sebastian & Teddy had a very sweet and loving connection. The bond Olivia built with Teddy was incredibly precious. I adored each scene where I got to see them building trust, love, and respect.

Sebastian & Olivia were fun, flirty, sweet, spicy and overall great characters. I understood the 3rd act breakup and why it happened and why they handled it that way. As the reader the situation is way clearer and I want to jump in and say he’s being dumb LOL but I put myself in his shoes of being a single father for that long and not knowing how to handle a romantic prospect and what it means for his son. Can’t rush those decisions.

“When I finally blink up at him, dazed and breathless, he’s already watching me. Like I just became his favourite thing in the world. And maybe he’s mine too.” 🥰❤️❤️❤️

Sebastian’s family was also a joy to read, and all the love they showed for him, Teddy & how they were so invested in his -possible- relationship with Olivia. His sister provided that siblings bickering and funny way of showing how much she loves him and wants him to be happy, and to get his head out of his ass 🤣

“Teddy stands in the middle, a bright yellow smile scribbled on his face. Beside him is Sebastian, tall, with big hands, and Diesel drawn at his feet. And on Teddy’s other side, hand in hand, is me. Wearing a pink dress. A big smile. Right there, next to his family.” 🥹🥹🥹💗💗💗

I figured out I had actually read books #2 & #3 early last year, but due to my awful memory, I didn’t remember them. I wouldn’t have time to go back and read them again, plus 1&4 and I just really wanted to get to book 5. I know that sucks when it’s a series where you follow all the characters throughout a long period of time. When time allows, I’ll go back to them.

[Charley Fitzpatrick (read_with_charley) · Rating 5 out of 5]

• BETA/ARC REVIEW •
• WILD PROMISES: BY ELLE MARIAH •
• SEBASTIAN & OLIVIA•
•⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️•

First and Foremost, my biggest thanks goes to Elle! She trusted me with this book as a Beta reader and I'll forever be thankful for her giving me that opportunity! Another thanks goes to Love Notes PR for the ARC opportunity! I think the best book was saved till last! Sebastian and Liv were everything.

I must say, this book bought so many emotions! I laughed (so many times) I smiled (constantly) and I cried (both sad and happy tears)! Being the last of the series, made it all that extra special. What a way to end such a perfect series!

- Single Dad x Baby Sitter
- Forced Proximity
- ASD Rep
- She falls first. But he falls harder
- Slow Burn
- Small Town Romance

Sebastian is the ultimate dad and no one can convince me otherwise! His relationship with Teddy is just perfect and the love he has for that boy is unmatched. And a hot cop.... is there anything else to say there?! Reading about his life and thoughts really hit the feels. Watching him overcome his struggles was really such a good read!

I'm convinced Olivia and I are the same person! We act the same, love the same things and our personalities basically make us twins! She's kind, independent and stubborn, loyal and such a farm girl! She knew what she wanted and she understood Teddy and Sebastian so well. I loved reading her story and watching her grow as a person, friend, sister, daughter and partner!

Their relationship was one I couldn't get enough of! Their struggles made it all worth it. And the chemistry between these two was on FIRE. All their moments, the small, the big, the happy and the sad, made it all worth it!

Little Teddy is perfection and the ASD rep in this book was written so perfectly. His relationship with his dad and Liv is written perfectly and I cant wait for you all to read him.

I could literally write so much about this book, this book is PERFECTION and I 100000% recommend this book to everyone!

And a little note to Elle,
I am so extremely proud of you and what you have given the bookish community! I will forever support you and I can't thank you enough for trusting me with your books. I'm so excited to see what the future holds for you <3

[Linzi Ingham · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Love Notes PR and the author for this advance reader copy of this book.

This is the 5th book in the Wattle Creak Series and whilst I have not read the first 4, I do not feel that this was needed to understand this book. But I do think there are likely things I now know from this book which may have been the main story lines in other books. It does say that the book are interconnected but can be read stand alone.

I really enjoyed this book, it had everything you would expect from a romance. It started off as a slow burn, but the chemistry between the two characters was definitely intense. You could feel how much they wanted each other through the words on the page. And you felt all the emotions with them. There was the conflict of what could happen if they were together, and the dilemma of brothers best friend!

I really liked the two main protagonists; Olivia and Sebastian. There was character growth, especially for Sebastian.

Sebastian's son Teddy was also super cute. He has a diagnosis of Autism and I really liked the representation of this in the book.

I had never heard of this author before but I really liked their style of writing. It flowed well, it was easy to get tucked into the story line and you really routed for the characters.

I definitely want to read the others in this series of books now!



THE DANCING IN THE RAIN 🥹🩷

The tropes;

👀 Single Dad x Babysitter

🤭 Brothers Best Friend

🏡 Small Town

💞 Forced Proximity

🕰️ Age Gap Romance

🎗️ ASD Rep

🐮 Cowgirl/Farmer x Police Officer

🥰 She Falls First He Falls Harder

If you enjoy any of these I would absolutely recommend you get this book!

Favourite quote (I highlighted a few!);

"I used to think love was about timing. About luck. About choosing someone who made sense. Someone who fit the plan - or whatever half-assed version I'd convinced myself was enough. But it's not. It's this. Its messy, and loud, and widely unpredictable."

[Emily Knaus · Rating 4 out of 5]

Absolutely here for baby Mitchell’s story! I’ve been waiting for Wild Olivia and her journey. Liv is just one of those characters that you love to read because she is just so sure of herself and feels so deeply. I can’t get over the bond she forms with Teddy. That is one of the sweetest parts of this book, she cares so deeply for him and even in her chaos she brings so much joy to his life without trying to change him.

The slowwww burn between Sebastian and Liv is what brother’s best friend tension deserves and more! They constantly circled one another and you could sense the yearning. I couldn’t get over their banter and the cute love notes. Liv’s personality and charisma helped bring Bash out of his shell. He put this protective guard up and seeing her breakdown those walls and care for him was so endearing. Bash has put everyone else’s needs before his own, and Liv took the opportunity to make him feel just as important. Sebastian craves Liv’s wild heart because she loves so fiercely. The way he doesn’t try to tame her was everything. As two opposites, they just clicked even when they tried to fight it.

The spice in this book is bold and confident. There is this energy between Liv and Sebastian that you can just feel. The chemistry and the way she matches him; he worships her and she challenges him. When he finally lets go things get good, I mean really good. There are so many spicy moments, but the sweet ones balance it out. The time they spend together all of three of them really solidifies Bash’s feelings. The bond he sees between Teddy and Liv only makes him love her more, even when he doesn’t think he deserves her. I loved how Liv knew exactly who and what she wanted, and waited for Bash to catch up. They are just the cutest little family and the Epilogue, don’t get me started. The most perfect ending for them.

A huge thank you to Elle Mariah and Love Notes PR for the early copy!

[Fernanda Montealegre · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5 estrellas
ARC REVIEW

realmente a mi no me importa quién, cómo o dónde se desarrolle: si es un papá soltero le entro DE CABEZA!!

Olivia, mi amor, te mereces todo lo bueno que hay en el mundo. QUE MUJER CHICAS, son de esos personajes que dan todo lo de ella, de aquellas que sabes que amarás porque puedes verte reflejada en su valentía y en la divina forma de amar. Y es aquí en donde me arrepientode no haber leído los otros libros porque veo a mucha gente que rezaba por la historia de Liv que siento fomo de no unirme a este grupo, pero tenemos algo en común: sabemos que esta protagonista vale totalmente la pena.

Bash es EL papá, si yo ya tengo una adicción con los papás solteros solo puedo decirte que ESTE papá soltero son de esos que profundamente esperas encontar en tu vida. Es un chico que ama el control y la rutina, pero tiene una vida muy ocupada y a un pequeño de 5 años que requiere de toda sua tención y su rutina, aquí Liv se convierte su salvadora pero DIOOOOOS, arriba el trope de mejor amigo de tu hermano (ojala haber tenido un hermano sinceramente, quizas mi vida amorosa sería más emocionante). Aparte que es eso que sea un policia, ¿Elle realmente tu querías poner todos los esterotipos del THE MAN para crear este hombre como un copia de el de nuestro sueños? porque si es así, congratulations.

La historia es emocionante y lineal, el spicy es poco, pero si haz leido mis reseñas sabes que ESE es mi tipo de spicy: uno en donde sabes que los protagonistas DESEAN al otro de una mnera profunda y desgarradora, bienvenida a tu nuevo libro fav.

Ahora que hago con mi vida después de este personaje: ¿será que Elle pueda engancharme con sus otros protas? yo digo que sí.

Gracias a la autora y love notes por mandarme este libro a cambio de mi reseña honesta.

[Domitilla · Rating 4 out of 5]

An heartfelt small-town romance that blends forbidden feelings, family bonds, and emotional healing. Unfortunately, it is also the last volume in the Wattle Creek series. 😭

💚 Olivia Mitchell is bold, outspoken, and fiercely protective of the people she loves. As the youngest Mitchell sibling, she’s always tried to prove she’s more than just the baby of the family. But falling for her brother’s best friend was never part of the plan.

🤎 Sebastian Daniels is the complete opposite of Olivia’s chaotic energy. As a single dad and the town’s new superintendent, he’s built his life around routine and control after everything he’s been through. But when Olivia steps into his carefully structured world—especially when she starts helping with his son—it becomes harder and harder to ignore the chemistry between them.

I really enjoyed the dynamic between Olivia and Sebastian. Their relationship grows through stolen glances, quiet moments, and the constant tension of knowing they probably shouldn’t cross that line. The single-dad element added a really sweet and emotional layer to the story, especially in the scenes involving Teddy, who completely stole my heart from the very beginning. 🧸 His storyline was written beautifully and helped bring more awareness to ASD. 🧩

🏡 The small-town setting of Wattle Creek once again creates that cozy atmosphere where everyone knows everyone and where secrets don’t stay hidden for long. 🤭

This was such a heartwarming story. 🤍 I especially loved the bond between Olivia and Teddy, the trust she slowly built with Sebastian’s son was incredibly sweet to see. Even the third-act breakup didn’t bother me too much because I was rooting for this little found family the whooooole time. 💖

⭐ 4.25/5 - 🌶️ 3.5/5

Thank you to Love Notes PR and Elle Mariah for the opportunity to read this ARC. 💚

[Amy · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sebastian is a single father to Teddy, a five year old who falls on the autism spectrum. When the book starts out, he’s just lost his nanny and has to hire a new one. His sister Sandra, unknowing to him, puts up at ad at a local store for him. Olivia answers that call, though she’s far from a stranger to him. He’s actually partners with her brother, Bradley, at the local police station.

The two quickly realize they just might be what the other one needs. But should they give in to their feelings or are they right be be afraid? Olivia is wild, the youngest sibling, and is always treated like the baby of the family. How will her brother feels if she falls for his best friend? Sebastian thrives on control, the exact opposite of Olivia. So, how has she so quickly become someone he relies on?

Can Sebastian let go and give in to his feelings for Olivia?

I really enjoyed this one. All the banter and the slow burn to that first kiss had me reading as fast as I could. I adore how quickly Olivia takes to Teddy, Sebastian’s son. I love that she is able to eventually draw him out. It makes sense he would have trust issues, because his own mom left him when he was three and disappeared from his life. But Liv is so gentle with him and does all she can to learn ways to be there for him.

There may be an age gap of seven years between them but it doesn’t feel like it. I think they compliment each other perfectly. He needed someone he could rely on and trust with his son and she needed a purpose in life besides helping out on her family’s ranch.

I don’t know a lot about autism spectrum disorder so I can’t comment on accuracy or anything like that, but I think the author did a good job of showcasing what a child with ASD goes through and how important routines are.

[Ajla Obic · Rating 4 out of 5]

4.5⭐️

Not many authors know how to write the perfect final installment in an interconnected series, where it feels like you’re parting with your loved ones & have to leave your heart within the pages as you close the last book, but Elle sure does! This was the most wholesome, beautiful, wonderful, sweet ending to a series that I’ve adored so much!
The epilogues, which showed a glimpse into everyone’s HEA’s, were so satisfying & perfect. No notes, except that I bawled my eyes out😀 Actually, I literally couldn’t stop crying while reading this entire book because it was so.Freaking.wholesome❤️‍🩹 Teddy’s ASD was written & represented so well- I wanted to climb into the book & hug that sweet boy (but also scold him for making me cry sm!)🤧 I laughed, cried, giggled, blushed, swooned, & kicked my feet.

Olivia is such a relatable character. She’s hardworking, sassy, sarcastic, loud, confident, wild, energetic, stubborn, & loyal. At her core, she is a dreamer & hopeless romantic, & I related so deeply to how she longed for love & connection💚 Sebastian is her polar opposite. He’s quiet, guarded, grumpy, reserved, has his walls built high, & is completely devoted to his son, Teddy.

Bash & Liv might’ve kissed around the 35% mark (hot, btw!), but the slow burn afterwards was burning! The forced proximity, stolen glances, forbidden connection, electric chemistry, & banter created such delicious tension! I loved Bash’s grovelling, their growth both individually & as a couple, & the family unit🥹❤️‍🩹

𝐑𝐞𝐚𝐝 𝐢𝐟 𝐲𝐨𝐮 𝐥𝐢𝐤𝐞: single dad x babysitter, forced proximity, brothers best friend, Australian small town, age gap, farm girl x police officer

Thank you to Elle & Love Notes PR for allowing me to be an arc reader for this entire series💚

[Michele · Rating 4 out of 5]

Tropes:
Single dad
Nanny
ASD Rep
Small Town
Brothers best friend
Forced proximity

This was such a cute story. It’s a part of a connected series but could be read as a standalone. This was the first book I have read by the author and I really enjoyed it! It has all the small town vibes I love.

Olivia has been working on her family farm but she wants to experience more. When she see’s an ad for a babysitting position she decides to give it a shot. Little does she know it’s her brother best friend that she will be working for.

Sebastian is a single dad. All his spare time goes to Teddy who has ASD. He’s very protective of his son and maintaining normalcy and stability for him. He’s just trying to be the best dad he can be while also doing a good job as an officer.

Olivia and Sebastian are mutually attracted to each other but they know they shouldn’t cross the line. Olivia brother has made himself clear to Sebastian absolutely no funny business. Although Sebastian and Liv have a hard time staying professional.

I love the banter between Liv and Bash. They push and pull for a bit. Toying with the line that they shouldn’t cross. Liv is a flirt with some sass and Sebastian is grump at first until he lets his guard down. It’s definitely a slow burn.

I adored the relationship between Olivia and Teddy. Teddy needed someone to be patient with him and lay a foundation of trust. She builds trust and understanding with him in a way others hadn’t and she was able to get him to open up to others in response.

Overall this is a story about finding a family and love! It had me in my feels I almost cried at one point. I love books that make me cry. I definitely recommend checking this book out.

Thank you to Love Notes PR and Elle Mariah for an ARC

[♥ WishfulMiss ♥ · Rating 4 out of 5]

I love a single dad x nanny romance and even though Bash and Liv's story is the 5th in the series, I read it as a stand alone and had no problem keeping up.

Our MCs are not strangers to each other. Bash is best friends with Liv's brother and he's known the whole family practically his whole life. But their age difference has kept them on the peripheral of each others lives. Until Bash finds himself struggling to balance his home life and his job, while trying to raise and care for his son as a single parent. He's become so used to taking care of himself and doing things on his own that he doesn't see when he needs help. But living in a small close knit town means others notice when he's getting buried.

Enter Olivia, who's been unknowingly recruited to be Bash's surprise nanny. Surprise because he didn't even know there was an ad out for this position and when he sees who turns up, he knows he's in more trouble than he ever suspected because Liv is pure temptation and the close proximity of having her watch over Teddy will be more than Bash can handle.

I loved the slow burn romance between our MMCs. They had such funny snarky banter and the low key flirting that kept their tension on high alert was chef's kiss! But I also was totally charmed by Liv and Teddy's relationship. This little boy was the sweetest and I loved his character. He added to the story all on his own and just made me love their little family unit all the more.

I really did enjoy this read and I'm curious about the rest of the series now! Definitely recommend if you like a tension fueled, snow burn romance with plenty of heat and a lot of sweet moments that will make you swoon from beginning to end.

[Dani · Rating 5 out of 5]

The final book in a series that will forever hold a special place in my heart! What a book, what an ending, Elle this was everything and more. I’m so grateful you shared Olivia, Sebastian and Teddy’s story with us. I truly do love them so much and I miss them so much already! 💚

Olivia’s character definitely hit hard, her story was such a beautiful one. Her deserved the world and more, always putting others before herself and to feel like she’s living in a shadow her whole life - seeing her blossom and find herself definitely makes me happy and I loved it.

Sebastian came such a long way, he is the best dad to Teddy. Always making sure his needs came first. The ASD rep is very special to me and Elle wrote his character with which sensitivity, understanding and compassion. I loved seeing the relationship between father and son. He is definitely one of a kind.

This book was the perfect way to end such an amazing series. It’s been a journey and a very beautiful one. Seeing everyone happily together makes me choke up. The love I feel for them all runs very deeply. The family I adore, Wattle Creek is my special place. Reading about two people that deserve nothing but love felt so bittersweet, I shed tears, I giggled and I definitely felt HOT! The tension between Bash and Olivia had me in a chokehold, their connection was electric, that slow burn was worth every second. It was a 6 star read, a book I’ll never forget 🥹

Elle I’m so proud of you, thank YOU for trusting us with me. Thank you for letting me not only beta read, but arc read. I’m so grateful these books brought me YOU! I love you and them so much!!💚✨

[bedsidebookstagram · Rating 5 out of 5]

“𝙏𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙢𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙬𝙖𝙣𝙩 𝙩𝙝𝙞𝙨 𝙩𝙤𝙤,” 𝙄 𝙬𝙝𝙞𝙨𝙥𝙚𝙧, 𝙫𝙤𝙞𝙘𝙚 𝙨𝙝𝙖𝙠𝙞𝙣𝙜 𝙪𝙣𝙙𝙚𝙧 𝙩𝙝𝙚 𝙬𝙚𝙞𝙜𝙝𝙩 𝙤𝙛 𝙞𝙩 𝙖𝙡𝙡. “𝙏𝙚𝙡𝙡 𝙢𝙚 𝙮𝙤𝙪 𝙛𝙚𝙚𝙡 𝙞𝙩.”

This book WOW!!
What a wild ride with emotions!!!

Smirking at 10%
Crying at 20%
By 30% I knew that this couple was going to just creep up into the favourites list.

Single Dad x Babysitter ✔️
Brothers Bestfriend ✔️
Forced Proximity ✔️

Do I need to say more about these tropes?

What a perfect to wrap up the Wattle Creek Series being able to read Olivia Mitchell’s story.
Our strong willed FMC who falls first for her brothers bestfriend (but he falls harder) 😉
And while he’s down there he might just be grovelling too.

“𝘿𝙤𝙣’𝙩 𝙩𝙖𝙡𝙠 𝙙𝙞𝙧𝙩𝙮 𝙩𝙤 𝙢𝙚, 𝙊𝙛𝙛𝙞𝙘𝙚𝙧.”

And yes I can confirm, these two became my favourite couple.

We can’t forget Teddy…. 🥹
That little boy stole my heart and all my tears.
You captured the innocence of a child’s mind and
tugged at my little mama heart with this one.

Do not read this book if you are HORMONAL!!
Pretty sure I haven’t stopped crying for two days straight but we are all good ladies. IT’S FINE!!
Don’t say I didn’t warn you 🫵🏻

One morning back in 2023, I was sitting at a cafe and meeting Elle for the first time.
She told me she was thinking about writing a series and here we are. There has never been a dull moment since….. always eager to hear what’s coming up or the little snippets of each book as they were in the making.
So proud of you my girl ♥️

Thankyou Elle & Love Notes PR for the opportunity to read the ARC of this book.

[Hannah Kelly · Rating 4 out of 5]

4/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
3/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️

•Single Dad x Babysitter
•Grumpy x Sunshine
•Brothers Best Friend
•Small town romance
•Forced Proximity

I’m not exaggerating when I say this completely wrecked me (in the best way). If you love a single dad romance with depth, heart and heat then this one delivers.



Liv is the kind of heroine you instantly root for. She’s warm, fearless, a little chaotic in the best way, and impossible not to love. She stands up for what she truly believes in! But what truly got me was how she was with Teddy. The patience. The instinctive understanding. The way she met him exactly where he was and loved him without hesitation. It never felt forced, just genuine and wholehearted. My chest actually hurt.



Sebastian? Whew. Protective, guarded, carrying old wounds and doing everything for his son. He’s Liv’s brother’s best friend, which only adds to the tension simmering between them. The quiet moments. The almosts. The loaded glances. And when that tension finally snaps? Let’s just say… it’s HOT. 🫠



Beyond the romance, I adored the sense of community woven through the story. The friendships felt lived-in and real. The teasing, the messages, the easy affection, it gave that comforting, found-family warmth while still packing an emotional punch.




Thank you so much to Love Notes PR and Elle Mariah for the ARC 🤍




#books #booksbooksbooks #bookstagram #romancebooks #wildpromises #ellemariah #irishbookstagrammer #irishbookstagram #bookreview #bookreviewsofinstagram #audiobookreview

[Angela Martin · Rating 5 out of 5]

Book Review: Wild Promises by Elle Mariah

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️✨ (4.5 Stars) | 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

I was lucky enough to receive this book as an ARC, and I want to say thank you to Love Notes PR!

Gosh, where do I even start? I enjoyed this book so much. I’m a huge sucker for a cowboy romance, but this was my first single dad romance—and let’s just say it definitely won’t be my last.

The characters were written perfectly. It honestly felt like I was right there with them, watching everything play out like a TV show in my head.

Olivia is our very witty FMC, and Sebastian is our very serious MMC—the contrast between them was everything.

Long story short, Olivia has been helping run the family farm but always wanted something of her own. After trying different things, a babysitting ad caught her eye. What she didn’t realize was that the job was for her brother’s best friend, Sebastian, who needed a live-in babysitter for his autistic son, Teddy, who doesn’t connect easily with people outside his comfort zone.

Until Olivia.

And that’s when everything changes.

Watching their relationship grow was so special, especially seeing the trust build between Olivia and Teddy, and the slow shift between Olivia and Sebastian. The slow burn was worth every second.

If you love:

Cowboy romance

Single dad trope

Slow burn

He falls first

Small town romance

You need to pick up this book!

Releases February 27 on KU — don’t miss it. 🤠📖✨