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Avenging Angels #5
A Lick and A Promise
Luna Nelson and Knox Chambers fell together fast, and they did it hard. It was so big, so special, they wanted it just for themselves and kept it a secret from their found family: the Avenging Angels and the Hottie Squad.
They both knew this was it. Together forever.
What Luna didn’t know was that Knox had secrets.
Secrets that tore them apart.
But when Knox asked for them to continue being friends—for the sake of their crew, and so he wouldn’t lose her—Luna loved him enough to say yes. Yes to the torture of being in the life of a man who was the love of hers, but he let her go.
Then, Knox gets shot. He gets shot not because he’s got a dangerous job (which he does), but because his family is an absolute mess.
With the man who means everything to her recuperating, Luna can’t keep away.
While Luna tries to keep the Angels safe from interfering in Knox’s family’s criminal enterprises, she and Knox circle each other, drawing a different kind of blood.
Will Knox continue to keep his secrets?
And will both of them be safe in the Chambers Family Feud?
They both knew this was it. Together forever.
What Luna didn’t know was that Knox had secrets.
Secrets that tore them apart.
But when Knox asked for them to continue being friends—for the sake of their crew, and so he wouldn’t lose her—Luna loved him enough to say yes. Yes to the torture of being in the life of a man who was the love of hers, but he let her go.
Then, Knox gets shot. He gets shot not because he’s got a dangerous job (which he does), but because his family is an absolute mess.
With the man who means everything to her recuperating, Luna can’t keep away.
While Luna tries to keep the Angels safe from interfering in Knox’s family’s criminal enterprises, she and Knox circle each other, drawing a different kind of blood.
Will Knox continue to keep his secrets?
And will both of them be safe in the Chambers Family Feud?
487 pages, Kindle Edition
First published June 19, 2026
About the author
Kristen Ashley
136 books39.7k followersKristen Ashley was born in Gary, Indiana, USA. She nearly killed her mother and herself making it into the world, seeing as she had the umbilical cord wrapped around her neck (already attempting to accessorise and she hadn't taken her first breath!).
Kristen grew up in Brownsburg, Indiana but has lived in Denver, Colorado and the West Country of England. Thus she has been blessed to have friends and family around the globe. Her posse is loopy (to say the least) but loopy is good when you want to write.
Kristen was raised in a house with a large and multi-generational family. They lived on a very small farm in a small town in the heartland and existed amongst the strains of Glenn Miller, The Everly Brothers, REO Speedwagon and Whitesnake (and the wardrobes that matched).
Needless to say, growing up in a house full of music, clothes and love was a good way to grow up.
And as she keeps growing up, it keeps getting better.
Kristen grew up in Brownsburg, Indiana but has lived in Denver, Colorado and the West Country of England. Thus she has been blessed to have friends and family around the globe. Her posse is loopy (to say the least) but loopy is good when you want to write.
Kristen was raised in a house with a large and multi-generational family. They lived on a very small farm in a small town in the heartland and existed amongst the strains of Glenn Miller, The Everly Brothers, REO Speedwagon and Whitesnake (and the wardrobes that matched).
Needless to say, growing up in a house full of music, clothes and love was a good way to grow up.
And as she keeps growing up, it keeps getting better.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 143 reviews
June 29, 2026
4 stars
I was excited to get Luna and Knox’s story and really enjoyed A Lick and a Promise. These books give me Rock Chick vibes in the best way, and the whole series has been great for me! I was even happy with all the Dream content, surprisingly enough!
I was excited to get Luna and Knox’s story and really enjoyed A Lick and a Promise. These books give me Rock Chick vibes in the best way, and the whole series has been great for me! I was even happy with all the Dream content, surprisingly enough!
Audio book source: Audible
Story Rating: 4 stars
Narrators: Stella Bloom
Narration Rating: 4.5 stars
Genre: Audible
Length: 11h 30m
June 24, 2026
I’m one that doesn’t like relationship angst. I prefer the couple to be working together against whatever obstacle that’s put in their path. However, this book changed my mind. I guess if it’s done well, I can actually enjoy the push and pull in a rocky relationship. It helps that angst isn’t the whole book because I really like reading about a couple making things work. This had a nice mix of both. I'm looking forward to the next book!
July 15, 2026
I meaaaan... it's Kristen Ashley, and it's Rock Chick 2.0, so of course I enjoyed it.
that being said, Knox got on my nerves a few times, especially in the beginning. I really didn't like how he gave Luna an ultimatum to "test" her, and throwing another woman in her face just felt childish. I honestly don't think I could've forgiven Knox as easily or as quickly as Luna did. he redeemed himself eventually, but I definitely needed more grovel from him.
overall, I did enjoy it and I’ll definitely keep going with the series, but this one didn’t hit me emotionally the way some of the earlier books did.
that being said, Knox got on my nerves a few times, especially in the beginning. I really didn't like how he gave Luna an ultimatum to "test" her, and throwing another woman in her face just felt childish. I honestly don't think I could've forgiven Knox as easily or as quickly as Luna did. he redeemed himself eventually, but I definitely needed more grovel from him.
overall, I did enjoy it and I’ll definitely keep going with the series, but this one didn’t hit me emotionally the way some of the earlier books did.
June 27, 2026
Humor, Heart, and Pure KA Magic
A Lick and a Promise is another unforgettable gem from Kristen Ashley, delivering everything I love about her storytelling. From the very first chapter, Ashley brings her trademark blend of sharp humor and emotional depth, creating a story that makes you laugh out loud one moment and tug at your heart the next. She has a way of writing characters who feel real, flawed, lovable, and impossible not to root for.
What makes this book shine is how effortlessly Ashley balances warmth and wit. The relationships are rich, the dialogue sparkles, and the emotional beats land with that signature KA impact. There’s a comfort to her writing; a sense of being wrapped in a world where love is fierce, loyalty matters, he bonds of friendship grow deep and humor is woven into even the toughest moments.
This is one of those stories that stays with you long after you finish, not just because of the romance, but because of the heart behind every scene. Kristen Ashley always finds a way to make you feel deeply while keeping you smiling, and crying. A Lick and a Promise is a perfect example of why her books are such a joy to read.
A beautiful, funny, heartfelt read that reminds me exactly why I keep coming back to her work.
A Lick and a Promise is another unforgettable gem from Kristen Ashley, delivering everything I love about her storytelling. From the very first chapter, Ashley brings her trademark blend of sharp humor and emotional depth, creating a story that makes you laugh out loud one moment and tug at your heart the next. She has a way of writing characters who feel real, flawed, lovable, and impossible not to root for.
What makes this book shine is how effortlessly Ashley balances warmth and wit. The relationships are rich, the dialogue sparkles, and the emotional beats land with that signature KA impact. There’s a comfort to her writing; a sense of being wrapped in a world where love is fierce, loyalty matters, he bonds of friendship grow deep and humor is woven into even the toughest moments.
This is one of those stories that stays with you long after you finish, not just because of the romance, but because of the heart behind every scene. Kristen Ashley always finds a way to make you feel deeply while keeping you smiling, and crying. A Lick and a Promise is a perfect example of why her books are such a joy to read.
A beautiful, funny, heartfelt read that reminds me exactly why I keep coming back to her work.
June 22, 2026
I strongly recommend reading the series in order and if possible the Rock Chick series first.
Each book is devoted to a couple getting together and sorting out a case but each book builds on previous relationships introducing new characters who reappear as the series progresses.
Luna and Knox have been circling each other but this book reveals their interactions from early on.
They got together secretly for I think it was 2 weeks, very intense and seemingly everlasting.
Knox had huge family and abandonment issues causing him to give Luna an Ultimatum, no time to mull it over, me or the angels.
Luna walks out the door.
At the start of each chapter we have a look at the happy times they shared before.
Tbh I found it difficult to be sympathetic to Knox, it probably doesn't help we only get Luna's POV and she is loyal to her promise not to discuss their relationship and break-up which they promised each other even if Knox doesn't keep that promise.
It also doesn't help he starts seeing someone else.
Luna is such a mess she starts fake flirting, dating too.
Knox does later reveal he didn't sleep with the other woman and I was a bit confused Luna says she wasn't with anyone else either in their time apart but I thought at one point she had said she was.
There are lots of appearances of other characters from earlier books and the Rock Chick series tbh it was alot.
We get Jacob and Alexia wedding, drama with her family.
Todd organising the wedding.
Kevster from Rock Chick series
Luna and her sister.
Knox and his various family members.
An office argument with Shirleen and Marjorie.
Luna's sister new relationship and growth.
Hints at several other couples.
I felt a bit that the main couple can start to disappear among everyone else's drama.
On the whole I enjoyed it.
I'd read the next book.
I don't mind a basic rehash of a series that works, it's very similar to the Rock Chick series.
We had 'its a test' just like Mace and Stella, definitely not my favourite book.
A song played on a night out to hurt the heroine just like Millie's book in Choas
And the secret relationship to avoid girl posse opinions like Ally and Ren.
No intimate details other than the Hero and heroine.
Huge ex drama, his, she thinks they are on a break, Ross style. Friends.
Each book is devoted to a couple getting together and sorting out a case but each book builds on previous relationships introducing new characters who reappear as the series progresses.
Luna and Knox have been circling each other but this book reveals their interactions from early on.
They got together secretly for I think it was 2 weeks, very intense and seemingly everlasting.
Knox had huge family and abandonment issues causing him to give Luna an Ultimatum, no time to mull it over, me or the angels.
Luna walks out the door.
At the start of each chapter we have a look at the happy times they shared before.
Tbh I found it difficult to be sympathetic to Knox, it probably doesn't help we only get Luna's POV and she is loyal to her promise not to discuss their relationship and break-up which they promised each other even if Knox doesn't keep that promise.
It also doesn't help he starts seeing someone else.
Luna is such a mess she starts fake flirting, dating too.
Knox does later reveal he didn't sleep with the other woman and I was a bit confused Luna says she wasn't with anyone else either in their time apart but I thought at one point she had said she was.
There are lots of appearances of other characters from earlier books and the Rock Chick series tbh it was alot.
We get Jacob and Alexia wedding, drama with her family.
Todd organising the wedding.
Kevster from Rock Chick series
Luna and her sister.
Knox and his various family members.
An office argument with Shirleen and Marjorie.
Luna's sister new relationship and growth.
Hints at several other couples.
I felt a bit that the main couple can start to disappear among everyone else's drama.
On the whole I enjoyed it.
I'd read the next book.
I don't mind a basic rehash of a series that works, it's very similar to the Rock Chick series.
We had 'its a test' just like Mace and Stella, definitely not my favourite book.
A song played on a night out to hurt the heroine just like Millie's book in Choas
And the secret relationship to avoid girl posse opinions like Ally and Ren.
No intimate details other than the Hero and heroine.
Huge ex drama, his, she thinks they are on a break, Ross style. Friends.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 30, 2026
For me this was the most boring book out of the series. Maybe because they already got together before this book opens and we only get the flashbacks of those seemingly awesome twee weeks, before he gives her an ultimatum and dumps her ass. Not romantic and honestly, I expected more backbone from the heroine. She was a push over. Only thing I really liked about this one was Dream's storyline. Hoping the next one will hit the spot again for me.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 22, 2026
I managed to finish this book, and while my initial anger has cooled, the frustration remains. These characters are in their 30s and 40s, but the conflict felt like high school bullshit.
The FMC claims she can hold a grudge, yet her backbone completely liquefies when the hero admits to playing mind games and "testing" her. Frankly, his behavior was
straight-up cruel-the man needs to consult a professional and owed her some serious groveling.
Instantly forgiving him completely excuses his toxic behavior and erases her self-respect.
The rest of the story was engaging enough to keep me reading to the end, but the tonal whiplash of a supposedly "strong" heroine instantly capitulating to a cruel hero really held this back.
The FMC claims she can hold a grudge, yet her backbone completely liquefies when the hero admits to playing mind games and "testing" her. Frankly, his behavior was
straight-up cruel-the man needs to consult a professional and owed her some serious groveling.
Instantly forgiving him completely excuses his toxic behavior and erases her self-respect.
The rest of the story was engaging enough to keep me reading to the end, but the tonal whiplash of a supposedly "strong" heroine instantly capitulating to a cruel hero really held this back.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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May 26, 2026
This one was really good! I love Luna so much! The first half of the book was feeling like five starts but I got lost in the plot a little in the second half. Overall I really enjoyed it and can’t wait for the next installment! It really does feel like the Rock Chick series and I’m loving that!
June 30, 2026
Avenging Angels: A Lick and a Promise by Kristen Ashley
Book 5 in the Avenging Angels Series, a campy romantic suspense spin-off. I recommend reading this series in order.
Early copy provided by author, but this never affects my review. Affiliate links included.
Avenging Angels: A Lick and a Promise is the fifth installment in the Avenging Angels Series, a spin-off of the Rock Chick Series by Kristen Ashley, and I think it may be my favorite of the bunch. While the romance technically stands alone, I don’t recommend reading it that way. Start at the beginning of this series, or even better, go read the original Rock Chick books first.
I couldn’t wait for Luna’s story from the very beginning. She and Knox had a secret relationship that burned hot and fast until he gave her an ultimatum. I loved that Luna recognized she shouldn’t have to give up something important to herself for a man, even one she loved.
“…you gave me an impossible choice, proving you weren’t into it with me, but into it with the woman you wanted to force me to be, and you gave me about five minutes to decide, even if there was only one choice I could make. That choice was continue, as ever, to be me.”
Because Knox is part of the Hottie Squad at Nightingale Investigations and Luna is one of the Angels, they kept their failed relationship quiet for the sake of the friend group. Knox moved on and dated someone else, but she wasn’t Luna, so eventually he ended it.
Knox comes from an awful family involved in drug running, and he keeps as much distance from them as possible. Unfortunately, they aren’t willing to let him go so easily. When an attempt to pull him back into the fold leaves him with a gunshot wound to the shoulder, Luna steps in to take care of him during his recovery. Strictly as a friend, of course. (Suuuuure.)
“It’ll only take half an hour. Can you wait half an hour?” he asked.
I could wait eternity for him, which was the problem.
I really liked that this book focused more on the relationship and character development than on the campy Charlie’s Angels-style action. It wasn’t quite as tied to the original Rock Chick books as some of the earlier installments, and that allowed the Avenging Angels series to come into its own here. At the same time, it was still classic Kristen Ashley: fun, sexy, emotional, and packed with characters you can’t help but love.
“Can your stitches hack it if I play cowgirl?” I asked.
“I don’t give a shit if they can’t.”
In addition to getting more depth from Luna and Knox’s second-chance romance, we also spent plenty of time with the previous couples. More importantly, though, we got a glimpse of several future pairings, and I’m ridiculously excited that it looks like there are at least three or four more books coming in this series.
Likes:
•Classic Kristen Ashley with a more modern vibe.
•Still retains some of the campy fun, but it’s much less in-your-face.
•So many cameos from the original Rock Chick series.
•More emotional depth and relationship building than previous books, with a little less action.
•Dream getting redeemed. I loved her story.
•Seeing all the previous couples again.
•The setup for three or four future couples.
•The character list in the back. Though I’d love it even more if it included who everyone is paired with.
Dislikes:
•Real people in their twenties and thirties probably don’t talk the way these women do (“That’s rad!”), but that’s also a signature Kristen Ashley thing at this point.
The Down & Dirty:
I love the Avenging Angels series. It’s the perfect blend of classic Kristen Ashley and modern romance, especially when it comes to consent and relationship dynamics. The entire series has a fun, nostalgic feel, but A Lick and a Promise stands out because it’s the most emotional and relationship-driven book so far. If you’re looking for a second-chance romance wrapped in campy romantic suspense with a lovable found family cast, this one delivers. The Avenging Angels series is my favorite Kristen Ashley series of the decade, and I’m thrilled there are more books on the way.
Rating: 4.75 Stars, 2.5 Heat
Purchase Avenging Angels: A Lick and a Promise by Kristen Ashley
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See my review for Avenging Angel
See my review for Avenging Angels: Back in the Saddle
See my review for Avenging Angels: Tenderfoot
See my review for Avenging Angels: Bad Medicine
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July 8, 2026
kitabın yüzde kırkındaki drama tozu harikaydı. luna ve knox'u sevirem. tabii ki biraz hızı düştü belli bi noktadan sonra ama sevdim yine de
roam ve alice?? shanti ve liam?? avukat hanımla polis bey?? en heyecanlı olduğum çiftler bu üçlü şu an hemen gelsin HEMEN
liam ve roam'un kitaplarını yıllardır beklirem çnk daha yumurtada vitaminlerdi küçük ergen ucubelerdi..
roam ve alice?? shanti ve liam?? avukat hanımla polis bey?? en heyecanlı olduğum çiftler bu üçlü şu an hemen gelsin HEMEN
liam ve roam'un kitaplarını yıllardır beklirem çnk daha yumurtada vitaminlerdi küçük ergen ucubelerdi..
July 6, 2026
I am all in my feels for this one. So much of this one felt like the OG Rock Chick stories and I was in happy tears throughout!
Luna and Knox are a part of the Angels/Nightingale Crew 2.0. They secretly have a fling and before coming out to everyone, they have a bad split. Tensions stay high within the group and everyone is trying to push them together, not knowing their history. But when tragedy strikes the group, Luna and Knox are forced to face each other and Knox sees it as his chance to push for more again.
Luna is fully herself and knows what she wants and I love that in a FMC. Knox is your typical protective badass PI just as all the other guys in the stories. The angst between these two had me in a chokehold the whole time. I was rooting for them so hard and my heart broke for them during the first part of the book. In true KA fashion we also get a little side redemption story in this one! Luna's sister has been hated this whole series but in this one she actually becomes human and we see her growth and start to find her way in life. I loved getting to see other side characters from previous books and how they keep in touch with the Angels. The girl group is a true sisterhood and I enjoyed their antics, as always. Mace had me tearing up in this one going all out for his team. Tex was more present and the restaurant scene had me cracking up. Overall this just felt so close to the OG Rock Chicks which hold a special place in my heart so I loved it so much!
I was gifted an ALC and it was fabulous! Stella Bloom has become the voice I put with most KA books. She does such a great job of bringing these strong, female characters to life. She has such a great way of narrating so that I am pulled in to the story and hooked. I will forever listen to any book she narrates!
As always, KA really pulled me in at the beginning and kept me hooked throughout. Go read the Rock Chick series and then get into this one, you won't be disappointed! They are all full of laughs, emotional drama, found family, and some suspense mixed in.
Thank you Kristen Ashley and team for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
Luna and Knox are a part of the Angels/Nightingale Crew 2.0. They secretly have a fling and before coming out to everyone, they have a bad split. Tensions stay high within the group and everyone is trying to push them together, not knowing their history. But when tragedy strikes the group, Luna and Knox are forced to face each other and Knox sees it as his chance to push for more again.
Luna is fully herself and knows what she wants and I love that in a FMC. Knox is your typical protective badass PI just as all the other guys in the stories. The angst between these two had me in a chokehold the whole time. I was rooting for them so hard and my heart broke for them during the first part of the book. In true KA fashion we also get a little side redemption story in this one! Luna's sister has been hated this whole series but in this one she actually becomes human and we see her growth and start to find her way in life. I loved getting to see other side characters from previous books and how they keep in touch with the Angels. The girl group is a true sisterhood and I enjoyed their antics, as always. Mace had me tearing up in this one going all out for his team. Tex was more present and the restaurant scene had me cracking up. Overall this just felt so close to the OG Rock Chicks which hold a special place in my heart so I loved it so much!
I was gifted an ALC and it was fabulous! Stella Bloom has become the voice I put with most KA books. She does such a great job of bringing these strong, female characters to life. She has such a great way of narrating so that I am pulled in to the story and hooked. I will forever listen to any book she narrates!
As always, KA really pulled me in at the beginning and kept me hooked throughout. Go read the Rock Chick series and then get into this one, you won't be disappointed! They are all full of laughs, emotional drama, found family, and some suspense mixed in.
Thank you Kristen Ashley and team for the advanced copy in exchange for my honest review!
Want to Read
January 3, 2026I can not wait for this book!
June 21, 2026
I wasn't sure about this one at the start. Luna and Knox seemed to grate on each others nerves. Not sure how they would end up together. I did find it interesting that Knox took advantage of being shot and did all he could to win back Luna, the start of which was to make sure that she was in his orbit often. Another thing that helped was them talking things through. It didn't happen all at once, but with each new issue that was resolved they got tighter as a couple and it helped ease into the next issue.
The drama with Knox's family was crazy! It sucks what Knox learned about all of them, but the one especially seemed to hurt.
I liked the changed with Dream. Her and Luna have had quite the relationship, but that seems to be healing. Dream is taking her life in a new direction and it's interesting the new guy she has in her life.
The wedding at the end was great! It's always fun to see the apartment complex group, getting the wedding there was perfect!
The drama with Knox's family was crazy! It sucks what Knox learned about all of them, but the one especially seemed to hurt.
I liked the changed with Dream. Her and Luna have had quite the relationship, but that seems to be healing. Dream is taking her life in a new direction and it's interesting the new guy she has in her life.
The wedding at the end was great! It's always fun to see the apartment complex group, getting the wedding there was perfect!
June 24, 2026
2.5 stars. This one really started off strong. Luna is one of my favorite characters of the series, and I was really looking forward to her book. It was so angsty, which is what I was in the mood for. I loved the tension. Then all of a sudden they were at karaoke. He did something terrible, she reacted and left. He follows her. He tells her everything was a test and she failed. She jumped him. Now they act like a married couple. Very disappointed in how quickly everything got turned around. I really shouldn’t be, this is how this author rates these kind of situations and I should’ve known better. After that, the suspense was just kind of mid. (and when did Luna become a bad ass that can disarm the bad guy? ) there was a sub plot with Knox‘s crazy eX, which is kind of fizzled out too. I did really like the situation with Luna sister, and the growth of her character and their relationship. The whole story was just pretty average for me. None of these books really live up to the first rock chick series. I actually used a credit for this book. It wasn’t bad enough to return, but I probably won’t reread.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 4, 2026
I'd describe this book with one word: boring. Nothing happens. I think you could skip this one, read the next in the series, and you'd still understand the story. The only reason I gave it 3 stars instead of 2 is that I read the whole book. It is a Kristen Ashley. I like the characters, but this book is solely character interactions, not even "character development". Really not much changes in the relationships. Sure, the 2 main characters get back together, but there was a distinct lack of drama involved in that.
July 21, 2026
3.5 stars
A Lick and A Promise was a fun installment in the Avenging Angels series, but it felt a bit more surface level than some of the other books. Some of the problems the characters were having had a resolution that felt a little bit rushed.
The friendships between the Angels, and also the hot guys, was, as always on par. And the humor, the other relationships, and the work they did was good.
A Lick and A Promise was a fun installment in the Avenging Angels series, but it felt a bit more surface level than some of the other books. Some of the problems the characters were having had a resolution that felt a little bit rushed.
The friendships between the Angels, and also the hot guys, was, as always on par. And the humor, the other relationships, and the work they did was good.
June 23, 2026
I loved this book. I was afraid the past would overshadow the present, but it wasn’t much back and forth. The ending…… I’m dying to know who is next…… I’m hoping Titus and Dimitri get their stories told, too!!!!
June 21, 2026
4.25 - ⭐⭐⭐⭐ ✨
“It’ll only take half an hour. Can you wait half an hour?” he asked.
I could wait eternity for him, which was the problem.”
A Lick and A Promise is the fifth instalment in the adult contemporary romance series, Avenging Angels. Each novel is part of an interconnected standalone following a group of vigilante women supported by a mysterious benefactor. Written in first person POV, the story follows Luna and Knox in the aftermath of a passionate but brief love affair neither has been able to get over, especially with how it came to a tumultuous end. For months they have had to pretend nothing happened because of their tight-knit friend group but when Knox finds himself shot during a family job that went wrong. Luna is unable to walk away from Knox but with so many secrets she must decide if she is willing to fight against all odds, including familial criminal enterprises, for a future together or will they continue to wonder what if?
As always Kristen Ashley knows how to deliver a fast and character driven romance that you will just eat up!
Luna is someone who continues to persevere with a smile on her face and a pep in her step. She has a lot to work through and it weighs but she refuses to let that simmer. I liked watching her stand her ground against Knox as they navigate their relationship and her humour kept me laughing.
Knox has a whole lot of dysfunctional family he has not worked through and it is leaching into his life. I liked seeing how much it weighed on him and how desperate he was to do something. He made a mistake with the way things ended with Luna but he wants to change things and it takes a bit of time for him to find that change but when he does....oh so good!
“Can your stitches hack it if I play cowgirl?” I asked.
“I don’t give a shit if they can’t.”
The book does contain spice - I would say 3 spicy peppers out of 5 spicy peppers. We see some steamy moments around the 15% in flash backs but the spice doesn't escalate until the 46% mark. There are about 7 spicy moments that vary in being more romantically written to being not very detailed but the characters are definitely having fun. I liked how well the relationship of these two is developed, especially given their previous history. They had to work to get back to being comfortable with each other and it was truly a perfect culmination. I like how it felt like a relationship where the spice felt natural to them. Kristen always nails it for me!
As always, these books are primarily character driven. Knox is trying to work through his family wanting to draw him back into the fold (a criminal one he is desperate to get away from) and, at the same time, Luna is also re-examining her relationship with her sister. We get Avenging Angels' investigation as Knox's family's criminal activities begin to seep in things but this book heavily focuses on Luna and Knox finding a new way forward together. Their fall into a level of comfortability with each other is what really stuck with me as it forced them to face their truth. It led to this beautiful moment with all the drama and bearing of souls that I need in my romance. Interspersed is banter, slices of life, and watching a couple find their rhythm and realise how good they are when they work together. It also wouldn't be a Kristen Ashley novel without a good climatic twist so expect all the shenanigans that we have seen since Rock Chicks. Side characters get a good amount of attention where you feel for their stories (ie Luna's sister). The ending is sweet but a bit short.
Overall, another excellent Kristen Ashley sequel that filled my bucket!
Thank you to Kristen for this arc!
“It’ll only take half an hour. Can you wait half an hour?” he asked.
I could wait eternity for him, which was the problem.”
A Lick and A Promise is the fifth instalment in the adult contemporary romance series, Avenging Angels. Each novel is part of an interconnected standalone following a group of vigilante women supported by a mysterious benefactor. Written in first person POV, the story follows Luna and Knox in the aftermath of a passionate but brief love affair neither has been able to get over, especially with how it came to a tumultuous end. For months they have had to pretend nothing happened because of their tight-knit friend group but when Knox finds himself shot during a family job that went wrong. Luna is unable to walk away from Knox but with so many secrets she must decide if she is willing to fight against all odds, including familial criminal enterprises, for a future together or will they continue to wonder what if?
As always Kristen Ashley knows how to deliver a fast and character driven romance that you will just eat up!
Luna is someone who continues to persevere with a smile on her face and a pep in her step. She has a lot to work through and it weighs but she refuses to let that simmer. I liked watching her stand her ground against Knox as they navigate their relationship and her humour kept me laughing.
Knox has a whole lot of dysfunctional family he has not worked through and it is leaching into his life. I liked seeing how much it weighed on him and how desperate he was to do something. He made a mistake with the way things ended with Luna but he wants to change things and it takes a bit of time for him to find that change but when he does....oh so good!
“Can your stitches hack it if I play cowgirl?” I asked.
“I don’t give a shit if they can’t.”
The book does contain spice - I would say 3 spicy peppers out of 5 spicy peppers. We see some steamy moments around the 15% in flash backs but the spice doesn't escalate until the 46% mark. There are about 7 spicy moments that vary in being more romantically written to being not very detailed but the characters are definitely having fun. I liked how well the relationship of these two is developed, especially given their previous history. They had to work to get back to being comfortable with each other and it was truly a perfect culmination. I like how it felt like a relationship where the spice felt natural to them. Kristen always nails it for me!
As always, these books are primarily character driven. Knox is trying to work through his family wanting to draw him back into the fold (a criminal one he is desperate to get away from) and, at the same time, Luna is also re-examining her relationship with her sister. We get Avenging Angels' investigation as Knox's family's criminal activities begin to seep in things but this book heavily focuses on Luna and Knox finding a new way forward together. Their fall into a level of comfortability with each other is what really stuck with me as it forced them to face their truth. It led to this beautiful moment with all the drama and bearing of souls that I need in my romance. Interspersed is banter, slices of life, and watching a couple find their rhythm and realise how good they are when they work together. It also wouldn't be a Kristen Ashley novel without a good climatic twist so expect all the shenanigans that we have seen since Rock Chicks. Side characters get a good amount of attention where you feel for their stories (ie Luna's sister). The ending is sweet but a bit short.
Overall, another excellent Kristen Ashley sequel that filled my bucket!
Thank you to Kristen for this arc!
June 20, 2026
This book almost made me cry! Not because it was beautiful or what happened to the characters, no this book almost made me cry with disappointment!
Months of waiting for its release, being excited to read Luna and Knox's story and I hated their "love story" precisely!
Knox is execrable, really!
He gives her an ultimatum to test her because he doesn't trust her to stay with him,
He goes out with another woman after a few months, to punish her (well, to test her as a friend according to him),
Yes Yes you read correctly, he is dating another woman and he parades with her in front of Luna for 6 months!
He makes her promise not to say anything about their relationship to anyone (not even her best friend), so she finds herself alone and without support to deal with their breakup, while he talks about it to his best friend,
He refuses her gift and suggests she give it to another man,
He hurts her in public in front of all their friends (after having isolated her from his friends), by choosing a song that is about them and which he knows will hurt her
and at no point does he say to her, “I’m sorry for hurting you” or “I regret my actions.” NOPE!
And Luna forgives him with no effort, because you understand, he had a difficult childhood and his mommy left him, so it's normal to test his partner again and again.
Are we talking about how he used Cheyenne for months? But is she the one being blamed because she's angry?
This book is a complete waste of time!
Months of waiting for its release, being excited to read Luna and Knox's story and I hated their "love story" precisely!
Knox is execrable, really!
He gives her an ultimatum to test her because he doesn't trust her to stay with him,
He goes out with another woman after a few months, to punish her (well, to test her as a friend according to him),
Yes Yes you read correctly, he is dating another woman and he parades with her in front of Luna for 6 months!
He makes her promise not to say anything about their relationship to anyone (not even her best friend), so she finds herself alone and without support to deal with their breakup, while he talks about it to his best friend,
He refuses her gift and suggests she give it to another man,
He hurts her in public in front of all their friends (after having isolated her from his friends), by choosing a song that is about them and which he knows will hurt her
and at no point does he say to her, “I’m sorry for hurting you” or “I regret my actions.” NOPE!
And Luna forgives him with no effort, because you understand, he had a difficult childhood and his mommy left him, so it's normal to test his partner again and again.
Are we talking about how he used Cheyenne for months? But is she the one being blamed because she's angry?
This book is a complete waste of time!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Yes, I'm back with the latest in the Avenging Angels series.
And yes, it was fantastic. In fact, it brought me back to the feelings I had with the first book in this spin-off series. It felt... like a Rock Chick. (Heck yes!)
A Lick and a Promise is the fifth book in Kristen Ashley's Avenging Angels series, which starts with Avenging Angel. I do NOT recommend starting this series here. Please check out the first one! My review of it here.
From the blurb...
Luna Nelson and Knox Chambers fell together fast, and they did it hard. It was so big, so special, they wanted it just for themselves and kept it a secret from their found family: the Avenging Angels and the Hottie Squad. They both knew this was it. Together forever.
What Luna didn’t know was that Knox had secrets. Secrets that tore them apart.
But when Knox asked for them to continue being friends—for the sake of their crew, and so he wouldn’t lose her—Luna loved him enough to say yes. Yes to the torture of being in the life of a man who was the love of hers, but he let her go.
Then, Knox gets shot. He gets shot not because he’s got a dangerous job (which he does), but because his family is an absolute mess. With the man who means everything to her recuperating, Luna can’t keep away.
While Luna tries to keep the Angels safe from interfering in Knox’s family’s criminal enterprises, she and Knox circle each other, drawing a different kind of blood.
Will Knox continue to keep his secrets? And will both of them be safe in the Chambers Family Feud?
My thoughts:
So, I'll be the first to admit that this series has been a bit up and down for me. I adored the first book, Avenging Angel—it recaptured that EXACT Rock Chick atmosphere that I love so dearly, and it had enough of my original Rock Chicks in it that I took it and ran. Then we had the next few books in the series, which... were still KA, and therefore still fun... but they lacked that little "oomph" that felt spiritually like a Rock Chick book. Between that lack of "oomph" factor and the strong Charlie's Angels vibes that I've never fully bought into (it's not my thing)... it was a rougher go. I was stalling a bit, I'll be real.
But A Lick and Promise brought it back to center for me. This one was Rock Chick through and through—the romantic angst, the Drama Involving Bad Families, and a clear focus on the romantic duo amid action vs. a lot of movie action that also somehow had a romance. (Does that last make sense?)
It also had my favoriteeee thing. Say it with me: second-chance romance. Yum, do I eat that up every time. No notes, good times were had, I laughed/cried/spun/died/revived. You name it.
Come for the KA drama, stay for that OG Rock Chick atmosphere and the great romantic center. I'm now re-excited for this series and its later installments!
Thank you to the author for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
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And yes, it was fantastic. In fact, it brought me back to the feelings I had with the first book in this spin-off series. It felt... like a Rock Chick. (Heck yes!)
A Lick and a Promise is the fifth book in Kristen Ashley's Avenging Angels series, which starts with Avenging Angel. I do NOT recommend starting this series here. Please check out the first one! My review of it here.
From the blurb...
Luna Nelson and Knox Chambers fell together fast, and they did it hard. It was so big, so special, they wanted it just for themselves and kept it a secret from their found family: the Avenging Angels and the Hottie Squad. They both knew this was it. Together forever.
What Luna didn’t know was that Knox had secrets. Secrets that tore them apart.
But when Knox asked for them to continue being friends—for the sake of their crew, and so he wouldn’t lose her—Luna loved him enough to say yes. Yes to the torture of being in the life of a man who was the love of hers, but he let her go.
Then, Knox gets shot. He gets shot not because he’s got a dangerous job (which he does), but because his family is an absolute mess. With the man who means everything to her recuperating, Luna can’t keep away.
While Luna tries to keep the Angels safe from interfering in Knox’s family’s criminal enterprises, she and Knox circle each other, drawing a different kind of blood.
Will Knox continue to keep his secrets? And will both of them be safe in the Chambers Family Feud?
My thoughts:
So, I'll be the first to admit that this series has been a bit up and down for me. I adored the first book, Avenging Angel—it recaptured that EXACT Rock Chick atmosphere that I love so dearly, and it had enough of my original Rock Chicks in it that I took it and ran. Then we had the next few books in the series, which... were still KA, and therefore still fun... but they lacked that little "oomph" that felt spiritually like a Rock Chick book. Between that lack of "oomph" factor and the strong Charlie's Angels vibes that I've never fully bought into (it's not my thing)... it was a rougher go. I was stalling a bit, I'll be real.
But A Lick and Promise brought it back to center for me. This one was Rock Chick through and through—the romantic angst, the Drama Involving Bad Families, and a clear focus on the romantic duo amid action vs. a lot of movie action that also somehow had a romance. (Does that last make sense?)
It also had my favoriteeee thing. Say it with me: second-chance romance. Yum, do I eat that up every time. No notes, good times were had, I laughed/cried/spun/died/revived. You name it.
Come for the KA drama, stay for that OG Rock Chick atmosphere and the great romantic center. I'm now re-excited for this series and its later installments!
Thank you to the author for my copy in exchange for an honest review.
Blog | Instagram | Libro.fm Audiobooks
June 20, 2026
Luna and Knox’s story in A Lick and A Promise has easily become my favourite book in the Avenging Angels series so far, largely because it didn’t feel like it was trying to replicate the earlier magic of the Rock Chicks books. As a result, I was able to enjoy it on its own merits without constantly making comparisons and, as such I found it much easier to connect with the protagonists and become invested in their journey.
More emotional than the previous instalments, this book centres around a second-chance romance. Luna and Knox had fallen hard and fast for each another over a year earlier, but with their friends all pairing off around them, they chose to keep their budding romance private and just enjoy getting to know each other without any pressure. They wanted time to see if they could build something before their well-meaning but often interfering friends got involved. Unfortunately, unresolved family issues from Knox’s past led to him presenting Luna with an ultimatum regarding her participation in the Angels and demanding an immediate answer. Well, he got a response, just not the one he wanted. Forced to settle for friendship, Knox moved on while Luna was left to nurse her broken heart in secret. When those same family problems eventually led to Knox being shot, he finally realises how much Luna meant to him and becomes determined to win her back.
Despite the heart of the story focusing very much on the relationship growth and development rather than on the usual Angels running amok on the streets of Phoenix, that doesn’t mean there is a shortage of drama or action with plenty of the series’ trademark over-the-top antics such as Knox’s obsessive ex-girlfriend providing plenty of chaos as she turns into a full-blown stalker and targeting Luna before things escalate into the inevitable food fight. I have to admit I was surprised by Tex’s restraint - especially considering he was leading the charge and hurling bowls of wonton soup during the last one – obviously maturity comes with being a business owner/employer. There was also the now almost obligatory kidnapping of the heroine, which comes with the territory when dating one of hot bunch. However, it never overshadows the more personal feel of the story surrounding Knox’s family issues and his growing understanding of what family really means. Watching him realise that his true family consists of Luna, and his friends and colleagues adds a satisfying emotional depth to the story.
Overall, A Lick and A Promise strikes a strong balance between romance, humour, action, and emotion. Knox is an appealing alpha hero whose confidence masks a deep fear of abandonment, while Luna’s compassion and understanding make her the perfect match for him. Readers who enjoy emotionally driven second-chance romances with a healthy dose of chaos and found-family themes are likely to find plenty to love here. And, for fans of the original Denver books they’ll appreciate the cameo appearances from Lee and Hector, adding an extra layer of nostalgia.
More emotional than the previous instalments, this book centres around a second-chance romance. Luna and Knox had fallen hard and fast for each another over a year earlier, but with their friends all pairing off around them, they chose to keep their budding romance private and just enjoy getting to know each other without any pressure. They wanted time to see if they could build something before their well-meaning but often interfering friends got involved. Unfortunately, unresolved family issues from Knox’s past led to him presenting Luna with an ultimatum regarding her participation in the Angels and demanding an immediate answer. Well, he got a response, just not the one he wanted. Forced to settle for friendship, Knox moved on while Luna was left to nurse her broken heart in secret. When those same family problems eventually led to Knox being shot, he finally realises how much Luna meant to him and becomes determined to win her back.
Despite the heart of the story focusing very much on the relationship growth and development rather than on the usual Angels running amok on the streets of Phoenix, that doesn’t mean there is a shortage of drama or action with plenty of the series’ trademark over-the-top antics such as Knox’s obsessive ex-girlfriend providing plenty of chaos as she turns into a full-blown stalker and targeting Luna before things escalate into the inevitable food fight. I have to admit I was surprised by Tex’s restraint - especially considering he was leading the charge and hurling bowls of wonton soup during the last one – obviously maturity comes with being a business owner/employer. There was also the now almost obligatory kidnapping of the heroine, which comes with the territory when dating one of hot bunch. However, it never overshadows the more personal feel of the story surrounding Knox’s family issues and his growing understanding of what family really means. Watching him realise that his true family consists of Luna, and his friends and colleagues adds a satisfying emotional depth to the story.
Overall, A Lick and A Promise strikes a strong balance between romance, humour, action, and emotion. Knox is an appealing alpha hero whose confidence masks a deep fear of abandonment, while Luna’s compassion and understanding make her the perfect match for him. Readers who enjoy emotionally driven second-chance romances with a healthy dose of chaos and found-family themes are likely to find plenty to love here. And, for fans of the original Denver books they’ll appreciate the cameo appearances from Lee and Hector, adding an extra layer of nostalgia.
June 23, 2026
4 STARS
What is it about the messy feels of a second chance romance that never fails to hit the spot for me. And Knox and Luna? These two were a hot mess. And this girl? Ate it right up.
If you've loved Kristen's Rock Chicks series and you haven't read this series yet, what are you even doing? This has all the same vibes with a new cast of favorites along with cameos from the past and I'm absolutely obsessed. Dare I say that this book may have been my favorite in the series so far.
Luna and Knox had a short lived and secret fling that fell apart catastrophically. Now antagonistic is their middle name. Your ex starts dating a new girl and parading her right in front of you? What's a girl to do but to pretend to date the ex's buddy to make him jealous? The pettiness. Chefs kiss. But I digress.
While I generally don't love the miscommunication trope, somehow it worked for me here. Probably because I understood exactly where and why they went wrong and how their past trauma drove their decisions. As much as I wanted to throat punch Knox for over half the book, I fell head over heels for him in the second. This is a man that is all in when he finally realized his mistake and I loved that about him.
Luna is no pushover and I loved the way she pushed when Knox pulled. She doesn't take any of his sh*t and she is not shy about putting him in his place.
All our quirky favorites are back and there's a fun suspense/mystery plot that runs parallel to the romance that just added the perfect icing on the cake.
It was entertaining, sexy, and full of feels. I seriously can't recommend this series enough!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
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This time, I’m warning you, Knox, don’t extend the invitation if you don’t mean it. There won’t be a time you can come to me where we figure out what we’re gonna be after we stopped being what we were. We’ll be nothing and all our posse will just have to deal.”
What is it about the messy feels of a second chance romance that never fails to hit the spot for me. And Knox and Luna? These two were a hot mess. And this girl? Ate it right up.
If you've loved Kristen's Rock Chicks series and you haven't read this series yet, what are you even doing? This has all the same vibes with a new cast of favorites along with cameos from the past and I'm absolutely obsessed. Dare I say that this book may have been my favorite in the series so far.
Luna and Knox had a short lived and secret fling that fell apart catastrophically. Now antagonistic is their middle name. Your ex starts dating a new girl and parading her right in front of you? What's a girl to do but to pretend to date the ex's buddy to make him jealous? The pettiness. Chefs kiss. But I digress.
While I generally don't love the miscommunication trope, somehow it worked for me here. Probably because I understood exactly where and why they went wrong and how their past trauma drove their decisions. As much as I wanted to throat punch Knox for over half the book, I fell head over heels for him in the second. This is a man that is all in when he finally realized his mistake and I loved that about him.
Luna is no pushover and I loved the way she pushed when Knox pulled. She doesn't take any of his sh*t and she is not shy about putting him in his place.
All our quirky favorites are back and there's a fun suspense/mystery plot that runs parallel to the romance that just added the perfect icing on the cake.
It was entertaining, sexy, and full of feels. I seriously can't recommend this series enough!
ARC courtesy of author in exchange for an honest review
Find me on:
July 13, 2026
4.5stars-A LICK AND A PROMISE is the fifth instalment in Kristen Ashley’s contemporary, adult AVENGING ANGELS romantic suspense series, a spin off, set in the author’s ROCK CHICK worlds. This is Knox Chambers, and Luna Nelson’s story line. A LICK AND A PROMISE can be read as a stand alone without any difficulty but I recommend reading the series in order for back story and cohesion.
SOME BACKGROUND: There is a small group of enterprising women who call themselves the Avenging Angels. With the help of a mentor named Arthur, as well as Nightingale Investigations and Security (Rock Chick #1), the women go in search of those unable to help themselves including the missing, the abused and the lost.
Told from first person perspective (Luna Nelson) A LICK AND A PROMISE follows the second chance romance and relationship between our story line couple. Approximately one year earlier, following an intense two week holiday romance, our couple separated both having lost the love of their life. Fast forward to present day, Knox Chambers is in recovery having been shot not once but twice, and Luna is determined to take charge but things left unsaid one year earlier continue to break Luna’s heart, and the reappearance of Knox’s ex girlfriend, and extended family drama finds Luna with a target on her back, and the ongoing heart break of a man who struggles with the demons from his past.
The world building is detailed and intriguing as the reader is up close and personal with a woman who has fallen in love with a man destroyed by his past. From the crew at the Oasis Square, as well as the security team at Nightingale Investigations, and the women of the Avenging Angels, a search for the truth reveals a darkness from the past.
The relationship between Luna and Knox is one of second chances but Knox struggles with issues of trust, and Luna’s heart can no longer chance another betrayal. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
Once again, there is a large ensemble cast of colorful, enterprising and spirited secondary and supporting characters from the interconnected Kristen Ashley series. The return of Luna’s sister Dream, a single mother stretched to the limits, see a potential chance at her own happily ever after with tech expert Byron. The requisite evil has many faces
A LICK AND A PROMISE is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, jealousy and obsession, dysfunctional family values, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is dramatic, edgy and entertaining; the romance is seductive and fated; the characters are broken, desperate yet determined.
copy supplied for review
SOME BACKGROUND: There is a small group of enterprising women who call themselves the Avenging Angels. With the help of a mentor named Arthur, as well as Nightingale Investigations and Security (Rock Chick #1), the women go in search of those unable to help themselves including the missing, the abused and the lost.
Told from first person perspective (Luna Nelson) A LICK AND A PROMISE follows the second chance romance and relationship between our story line couple. Approximately one year earlier, following an intense two week holiday romance, our couple separated both having lost the love of their life. Fast forward to present day, Knox Chambers is in recovery having been shot not once but twice, and Luna is determined to take charge but things left unsaid one year earlier continue to break Luna’s heart, and the reappearance of Knox’s ex girlfriend, and extended family drama finds Luna with a target on her back, and the ongoing heart break of a man who struggles with the demons from his past.
The world building is detailed and intriguing as the reader is up close and personal with a woman who has fallen in love with a man destroyed by his past. From the crew at the Oasis Square, as well as the security team at Nightingale Investigations, and the women of the Avenging Angels, a search for the truth reveals a darkness from the past.
The relationship between Luna and Knox is one of second chances but Knox struggles with issues of trust, and Luna’s heart can no longer chance another betrayal. The $ex scenes are intimate and passionate without the use of over the top, sexually graphic language and text.
Once again, there is a large ensemble cast of colorful, enterprising and spirited secondary and supporting characters from the interconnected Kristen Ashley series. The return of Luna’s sister Dream, a single mother stretched to the limits, see a potential chance at her own happily ever after with tech expert Byron. The requisite evil has many faces
A LICK AND A PROMISE is a story of secrets and lies, betrayal and vengeance, jealousy and obsession, dysfunctional family values, acceptance and love. The character driven premise is dramatic, edgy and entertaining; the romance is seductive and fated; the characters are broken, desperate yet determined.
copy supplied for review
Review of advance copy received from Author
Copy received from author for an honest review
We're back with another Angel adventure, and another hottie squad guy falling hard.
I have been here for the Luna and Knox show through the previous books, and it was great to finally get their story.
Hoooy, I think this is my favourite of the Avenging Angels books so far. It has everything we have come to expect from a KA book. Fun, flirting, action and adventure
But what I liked this time is that a lot of that was tamed down in A Lick And A Promise. Yes, there is still lots of seggsy times, but to me, this one is a lot more people based. Luna has so much going on outside of what is happening with Knox -and boy, did I dislike the man for a good portion of this book, but loved that they finally figured their ish out.
I loved Luna with her sister - if you tell me you never have dramas or falling outs with your sibilngs, I will show you your pants smoking lol.
I also love our little cameos from the OG Rock Chicks and Nightingale hot bunch. It takes me back to when I first discovered the Rock Chick books. 2.0 gives me all the same vibes.
I now want to move into Oasis Square and find my own alpha hottie.
Review of advance copy received from Author
A Lick and a Promise had me doing absolutely nothing productive except obsessing over Knox and Luna for an entire day with zero regrets. Getting this ARC already felt unreal, so I’m ridiculously grateful for the early copy.
The story kicks off with Knox in the hospital because of his messy, sketchy family situation while Luna is trying very hard (and failing spectacularly) to ignore the feelings she still has for him. These two had a brief relationship before deciding to stay “just friends” for the sake of their friend group… except neither of them actually wants that. Add in chaotic exes, family drama, unresolved feelings, and enough tension to make me want to scream into a pillow and you get this angsty second-chance romance that had me completely hooked.
And Knox! Oh, he tested my patience BAD. The push and pull, the heartbreak, the mixed signals… I wanted to throw something directly at his head more than once. Luna, meanwhile, had the patience of a saint because I personally would not have been nearly as forgiving. But once the story starts unraveling and all the layers come together..Whew! The payoff was worth every second of frustration.
One of my favourite things about KA books will always be the friendships and found family dynamics. They feel so natural, so lived-in, and coming back to this world genuinely felt like coming home. I recently rereading the Rock Chick series on KU, so seeing all the familiar faces again made me ridiculously happy. If you really want the full experience, I’d absolutely recommend reading the Rock Chick series first and then the Avenging Angels books because the crossover characters, inside jokes, friendships, and history make everything hit even harder.
The cast is HUGE in the best way possible Angels, badasses, suspense, all of them. The angst was angsting, but the glimpses into Knox and Luna’s past relationship and the slow rebuilding of their connection made the emotional payoff feel so earned. I also adored how domestic they were together, and honestly Jacques the pupper was the cherry on top of their soft little moments.
Kristen Ashley’s writing is as immersive as ever and this might genuinely be one of my favourite second-chance romances from her in a while. Also that epilogue is actually bomb (ifykyk). I already need the next couple’s book immediately.
Read this when it releases on June 19th and if you haven’t started this world yet, trust me, you’re missing out on an elite reading experience.
The story kicks off with Knox in the hospital because of his messy, sketchy family situation while Luna is trying very hard (and failing spectacularly) to ignore the feelings she still has for him. These two had a brief relationship before deciding to stay “just friends” for the sake of their friend group… except neither of them actually wants that. Add in chaotic exes, family drama, unresolved feelings, and enough tension to make me want to scream into a pillow and you get this angsty second-chance romance that had me completely hooked.
And Knox! Oh, he tested my patience BAD. The push and pull, the heartbreak, the mixed signals… I wanted to throw something directly at his head more than once. Luna, meanwhile, had the patience of a saint because I personally would not have been nearly as forgiving. But once the story starts unraveling and all the layers come together..Whew! The payoff was worth every second of frustration.
One of my favourite things about KA books will always be the friendships and found family dynamics. They feel so natural, so lived-in, and coming back to this world genuinely felt like coming home. I recently rereading the Rock Chick series on KU, so seeing all the familiar faces again made me ridiculously happy. If you really want the full experience, I’d absolutely recommend reading the Rock Chick series first and then the Avenging Angels books because the crossover characters, inside jokes, friendships, and history make everything hit even harder.
The cast is HUGE in the best way possible Angels, badasses, suspense, all of them. The angst was angsting, but the glimpses into Knox and Luna’s past relationship and the slow rebuilding of their connection made the emotional payoff feel so earned. I also adored how domestic they were together, and honestly Jacques the pupper was the cherry on top of their soft little moments.
Kristen Ashley’s writing is as immersive as ever and this might genuinely be one of my favourite second-chance romances from her in a while. Also that epilogue is actually bomb (ifykyk). I already need the next couple’s book immediately.
Read this when it releases on June 19th and if you haven’t started this world yet, trust me, you’re missing out on an elite reading experience.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Kristen Ashley really looked at me and said, you know what this girl needs, EMOTIONAL SUFFERING WITH BENEFITS.
Because A Lick and a Promise absolutely had me in a chokehold.
Knox and Luna being secretly all in, fully convinced they were forever, only for his secrets to rip the whole thing apart? SICK. EVIL. DELICIOUS. This is exactly the kind of second-chance setup that gets under my skin because they were never casual. They were never almost. They were IT for each other and then had to stand there pretending friendship was enough. Friendship. Please. I was stressed from page one.
Luna really got me in this one. The amount of love that woman has in her while still holding her ground, still protecting her own heart, still trying not to let Knox ruin her twice… I felt every second of it. And Knox. Lord help me. That man had me wanting to shake him, kiss him, and throw him into traffic in alternating waves. He is peak Kristen Ashley hero energy. Messy, protective, stubborn, deeply gone for his woman, and somehow still making catastrophic choices while loving her with his whole damn chest.
The first half of this book was ANGST doing pushups on my sternum. The tension between them was brutal because you can feel all that history, all that love, all that pain still alive and clawing at both of them. And then when things start to open up and soften, when the truth starts coming out, when those two stop pretending they can survive without each other… I was done for.
Also one thing Kristen will always do is make me feel like I’m coming home. The friendships, the found family, the crossover warmth, the chaos of everyone all up in everyone’s business. It gives the whole book this lived-in heartbeat that makes everything hit harder. And yes, Jacques absolutely mattered.
This one felt especially good because the payoff was earned. You suffer for it. They suffer for it. And when the walls crack and the love gets to breathe again, it hits like a freight train.
Basically I had an amazing time being emotionally tortured by this book.
Knox and Luna, you beautiful disasters, I am obsessed.
Because A Lick and a Promise absolutely had me in a chokehold.
Knox and Luna being secretly all in, fully convinced they were forever, only for his secrets to rip the whole thing apart? SICK. EVIL. DELICIOUS. This is exactly the kind of second-chance setup that gets under my skin because they were never casual. They were never almost. They were IT for each other and then had to stand there pretending friendship was enough. Friendship. Please. I was stressed from page one.
Luna really got me in this one. The amount of love that woman has in her while still holding her ground, still protecting her own heart, still trying not to let Knox ruin her twice… I felt every second of it. And Knox. Lord help me. That man had me wanting to shake him, kiss him, and throw him into traffic in alternating waves. He is peak Kristen Ashley hero energy. Messy, protective, stubborn, deeply gone for his woman, and somehow still making catastrophic choices while loving her with his whole damn chest.
The first half of this book was ANGST doing pushups on my sternum. The tension between them was brutal because you can feel all that history, all that love, all that pain still alive and clawing at both of them. And then when things start to open up and soften, when the truth starts coming out, when those two stop pretending they can survive without each other… I was done for.
Also one thing Kristen will always do is make me feel like I’m coming home. The friendships, the found family, the crossover warmth, the chaos of everyone all up in everyone’s business. It gives the whole book this lived-in heartbeat that makes everything hit harder. And yes, Jacques absolutely mattered.
This one felt especially good because the payoff was earned. You suffer for it. They suffer for it. And when the walls crack and the love gets to breathe again, it hits like a freight train.
Basically I had an amazing time being emotionally tortured by this book.
Knox and Luna, you beautiful disasters, I am obsessed.
Review of advance copy received from Author
The Avenging Angels series continues with Knox and Luna's story and it's one of love and secrets.
I read and reviewed an advance copy. Thank you to the author and her team. All opinions are my own and given freely.
Knox and Luna are apart of the same friend group. Luna a member of the vigilante group Avenging Angels, and Knox a PI with Nightingale Investigations & Security Team. Many of their friends have formed romantic relationships within these two outfits. So when sparks ignite they decide to keep it on the downlow. Which backfires when they break up, and no one understands the sudden weirdness between them. Because Knox wants to remain friends, and Luna's trying but is hurt. When Knox gets shot, things change.
I am a huge Kristen Ashley fan and have been really enjoying this series. This book has attributes the author does so well including a fantastic strong FMC who is so unapologetically herself, an alpha MMC who will give you that love/hate whiplash, as well as fabulous friendships and found family dynamics that will bring all the feels and make you laugh too. As well as a fun pet sidekick. But for some reason I just found myself not as captivated as I hoped to be, or have been with other books in this series. The whole breakup/makeup could have used some grovel for me. And while it seems trivial, as a vegan cheese eater- one diss would have been enough. Overall not 100% my cup of tea, but I liked it, and it may just be the perfect blend for you! Looking forward to reading whatever the author brings us next!
3.5 Stars ⭐
A Lick and A Promise is book 5 in the Avenging Angels series and while I think best experienced in order (and with having read the Rock Chicks series too for optimal enjoyment), you could read and enjoy it on it's own too.
I read and reviewed an advance copy. Thank you to the author and her team. All opinions are my own and given freely.
Knox and Luna are apart of the same friend group. Luna a member of the vigilante group Avenging Angels, and Knox a PI with Nightingale Investigations & Security Team. Many of their friends have formed romantic relationships within these two outfits. So when sparks ignite they decide to keep it on the downlow. Which backfires when they break up, and no one understands the sudden weirdness between them. Because Knox wants to remain friends, and Luna's trying but is hurt. When Knox gets shot, things change.
I am a huge Kristen Ashley fan and have been really enjoying this series. This book has attributes the author does so well including a fantastic strong FMC who is so unapologetically herself, an alpha MMC who will give you that love/hate whiplash, as well as fabulous friendships and found family dynamics that will bring all the feels and make you laugh too. As well as a fun pet sidekick. But for some reason I just found myself not as captivated as I hoped to be, or have been with other books in this series. The whole breakup/makeup could have used some grovel for me. And while it seems trivial, as a vegan cheese eater- one diss would have been enough. Overall not 100% my cup of tea, but I liked it, and it may just be the perfect blend for you! Looking forward to reading whatever the author brings us next!
3.5 Stars ⭐
A Lick and A Promise is book 5 in the Avenging Angels series and while I think best experienced in order (and with having read the Rock Chicks series too for optimal enjoyment), you could read and enjoy it on it's own too.
June 19, 2026
Avenging Angels: A Lick and A Promise was freaking fantastic! I’ve loved watching Knox and Luna circle each other in previous books, so finally getting their HEA was everything. I was completely hooked from the beginning. This was exciting, entertaining, sweet, sexy, and drama-filled. There were so many moments woven in that had me laughing, cheering, and getting choked up. I felt this one deep! The Angels and their bonds are incredible, and I adored seeing familiar faces again. Another addictive story in the Avenging Angels series!
I was on the edge of my seat watching everything unfold between Knox and Luna. It was messy, emotional, and full of drama, and I loved every second. I loved the flashbacks to the beginning of their relationship and seeing all the details of where they started. My heart hurt for Luna about why they broke up, but I appreciated how she kept her promise to him. As for Knox, I had a serious love-hate relationship with him. I loved him, but some of his choices stressed me out, and I couldn’t wait for him to finally figure himself out. Once he did, I was all in. Learning about his family history added so much depth, and by the end, I hurt for him as well, but loved watching him work toward the life he deserved. These two had off-the-charts chemistry and gave me serious Mace and Stella vibes (Rock Chick Reckoning), which I absolutely ate up.
I couldn’t get enough of all the other characters. I loved the bond between Raye and Luna, even when they’re at odds, and the sisterhood the Angels have built together. It’s always fun seeing Tex and Tito, too. There were updates on past characters, future pairings hinted at that I’m thrilled about, and moments with Dream that made me ridiculously happy. I ate up every detail on the mysterious Byron, loved seeing Dmitri and Titus again, and liked learning about the feud between Shirleen and Marjorie. Everything together made it feel full and layered.
This story had my emotions all over the place with the drama, tension, and entertaining moments. I loved the attention to detail and world-building. And the ending with the setup for the next book? Holy mother of book goodness! I need Avenging Angels: Ambush immediately. This was unputdownable!
Complimentary copy received.
I was on the edge of my seat watching everything unfold between Knox and Luna. It was messy, emotional, and full of drama, and I loved every second. I loved the flashbacks to the beginning of their relationship and seeing all the details of where they started. My heart hurt for Luna about why they broke up, but I appreciated how she kept her promise to him. As for Knox, I had a serious love-hate relationship with him. I loved him, but some of his choices stressed me out, and I couldn’t wait for him to finally figure himself out. Once he did, I was all in. Learning about his family history added so much depth, and by the end, I hurt for him as well, but loved watching him work toward the life he deserved. These two had off-the-charts chemistry and gave me serious Mace and Stella vibes (Rock Chick Reckoning), which I absolutely ate up.
I couldn’t get enough of all the other characters. I loved the bond between Raye and Luna, even when they’re at odds, and the sisterhood the Angels have built together. It’s always fun seeing Tex and Tito, too. There were updates on past characters, future pairings hinted at that I’m thrilled about, and moments with Dream that made me ridiculously happy. I ate up every detail on the mysterious Byron, loved seeing Dmitri and Titus again, and liked learning about the feud between Shirleen and Marjorie. Everything together made it feel full and layered.
This story had my emotions all over the place with the drama, tension, and entertaining moments. I loved the attention to detail and world-building. And the ending with the setup for the next book? Holy mother of book goodness! I need Avenging Angels: Ambush immediately. This was unputdownable!
Complimentary copy received.
Review of advance copy received from Author
5 SMOOCHES!
A Lick and a Promise is the fifth book in Kristen Ashley’s Avenging Angels series and a second generation Rock Chick inspired series. I’ve read and loved all the previous books in this series, but I’ve been anxiously awaiting Luna and Knox’s story. Luna has a complex family dynamic, but Knox’s history is dark and riddled with all manner of abuse that has left him with a substantial amount of unresolved trauma. What starts out as a secret love relationship, implodes rather quickly, leaving the two of them to swallow their pain and pretend to be cordial for the sake of their joint friend group.
The problem is that their chemistry was the explosive, magnetic, all consuming, once-in-a-lifetime kind—and it’s not just the two of them that feel it. Unfortunately Knox has a mountain of issues to deal with, and Luna, who has been positively wrecked by him, needs to figure out if she can forgive him. With their complicated familial relationships, the strength of their found family of friends plays an integral role in the rekindling of their relationship.
This was one heck of an angsty, emotional ride. A quintessential KA romance – part romcom, part romantic suspense, full of brilliantly witty banter, with a strong, resilient female lead, an alpha male who loves with everything he’s got, a heart-racing love story and a fabulous cast of supporting characters. A Lick and a Promise gave me all those wonderfully nostalgic Rock Chick vibes but with a totally fresh, completely new feel. Five smooches from me for A Lick and a Promise by Kristen Ashley!
~Danielle Palumbo
A Lick and a Promise is the fifth book in Kristen Ashley’s Avenging Angels series and a second generation Rock Chick inspired series. I’ve read and loved all the previous books in this series, but I’ve been anxiously awaiting Luna and Knox’s story. Luna has a complex family dynamic, but Knox’s history is dark and riddled with all manner of abuse that has left him with a substantial amount of unresolved trauma. What starts out as a secret love relationship, implodes rather quickly, leaving the two of them to swallow their pain and pretend to be cordial for the sake of their joint friend group.
The problem is that their chemistry was the explosive, magnetic, all consuming, once-in-a-lifetime kind—and it’s not just the two of them that feel it. Unfortunately Knox has a mountain of issues to deal with, and Luna, who has been positively wrecked by him, needs to figure out if she can forgive him. With their complicated familial relationships, the strength of their found family of friends plays an integral role in the rekindling of their relationship.
This was one heck of an angsty, emotional ride. A quintessential KA romance – part romcom, part romantic suspense, full of brilliantly witty banter, with a strong, resilient female lead, an alpha male who loves with everything he’s got, a heart-racing love story and a fabulous cast of supporting characters. A Lick and a Promise gave me all those wonderfully nostalgic Rock Chick vibes but with a totally fresh, completely new feel. Five smooches from me for A Lick and a Promise by Kristen Ashley!
~Danielle Palumbo
Review of advance copy received from Goodreads Giveaways
Avenging Angel series by Kristen Ashley is proving to be a competitor of Rock Chicks series. The girl gang is the life goal. We have only seen Luna to be sweet and caring. And kind but bada&& woman. But this story goes deep into our hearts. Like all Kristen Ashley books, we have another epic alpha hero in the form of Knox, only his issues are miles long. His vulnerabilities make him even more attractive. He is this intimidating, gorgeous and daredevil PI but his heart has so many holes and so many scars that he is not sure that he deserves Luna. There was so much tension that you could cut it with a diamond knife. There was angst, there was chemistry, there was the beauty of a found family. A Lick for A Promise was a rollercoaster of feelings, action ,suspense drama. passion and anything you can think of.
So we're going with this love story in an unusual way. The story begins in a hospital waiting room. Knox has been admitted after being shot by his own family, which has ties with the organised crime world. And then the first person he wants to see after waking up from the surgery is Luna. the very woman he decided to break up with.Brutally. I would like to say just one year ago, but the fact is none of them have moved on. They thought they had it all. But Knox's past has made him act quite foolishly. Will Luna forgive him? Will Luna be able to take care of him,keeping aside her heart sickness?
Luna has a very complicated family, especially her sister, but she wants to make it work. She does have a more epic, more amazing extended family in the form of Avenging Angels. The Angels are just not a part of a vigilante team. The angels take care of each other emotionally, physically and everywhere possible. So Knox's ultimatum that she has to choose between the angels and Knox,was a devastating blow for Luna, considering many of the angels are also in relationship with the Nightingale investigation guys. She expected him to understand her.
But Knox's past has made him a stubborn a******. He has suffered through family abuse, abandonment, manipulation, just every kind of trauma you can think of and he desperately wants someone to hold on to. He desperately wants someone to make him the first choice, and obviously he is scared to lose Loni in one of the showdowns the Avengers can get in.But he definitely had a poor way to show it.
Now he has had it enough. The near death experience had shifted his perspective, and he wants to do it again. But Luna has been hurt badly by him. And he has broken her trust. So it will take a lot for him to earn it back. And anyone and everyone in their extended family is meddling without knowing the facts and that's only messing everything up. Their chemistry is this living, breathing or consuming thing. But chemistry is not everything. He has to open up to Loni and show his deepest darkest part. So that she can understand why he behaves like this. But Luna is such an amazing woman. Even when she knew that staying close to Knox would hurt him, she still tried to take care of him during his recovery. And that basically pushed them together in each other's axis again, and they realised that their feelings didn't go anywhere. They just have to work through some knots. Like Knox realising his family doesn't mean anything to these people who love and respect him.
And there is a suspense part, but I would say, the suspense part is relatively milder in comparison to the previous angels book. This book is more emotional.
So we're going with this love story in an unusual way. The story begins in a hospital waiting room. Knox has been admitted after being shot by his own family, which has ties with the organised crime world. And then the first person he wants to see after waking up from the surgery is Luna. the very woman he decided to break up with.Brutally. I would like to say just one year ago, but the fact is none of them have moved on. They thought they had it all. But Knox's past has made him act quite foolishly. Will Luna forgive him? Will Luna be able to take care of him,keeping aside her heart sickness?
Luna has a very complicated family, especially her sister, but she wants to make it work. She does have a more epic, more amazing extended family in the form of Avenging Angels. The Angels are just not a part of a vigilante team. The angels take care of each other emotionally, physically and everywhere possible. So Knox's ultimatum that she has to choose between the angels and Knox,was a devastating blow for Luna, considering many of the angels are also in relationship with the Nightingale investigation guys. She expected him to understand her.
But Knox's past has made him a stubborn a******. He has suffered through family abuse, abandonment, manipulation, just every kind of trauma you can think of and he desperately wants someone to hold on to. He desperately wants someone to make him the first choice, and obviously he is scared to lose Loni in one of the showdowns the Avengers can get in.But he definitely had a poor way to show it.
Now he has had it enough. The near death experience had shifted his perspective, and he wants to do it again. But Luna has been hurt badly by him. And he has broken her trust. So it will take a lot for him to earn it back. And anyone and everyone in their extended family is meddling without knowing the facts and that's only messing everything up. Their chemistry is this living, breathing or consuming thing. But chemistry is not everything. He has to open up to Loni and show his deepest darkest part. So that she can understand why he behaves like this. But Luna is such an amazing woman. Even when she knew that staying close to Knox would hurt him, she still tried to take care of him during his recovery. And that basically pushed them together in each other's axis again, and they realised that their feelings didn't go anywhere. They just have to work through some knots. Like Knox realising his family doesn't mean anything to these people who love and respect him.
And there is a suspense part, but I would say, the suspense part is relatively milder in comparison to the previous angels book. This book is more emotional.
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