Happily Ever Maybe

Montgomery Ink Legacy #4.5

by Carrie Ann Ryan

It was only supposed to be one job.

I know the rules.
Get in. Get out.
Protect the girl, then move on.
Only it never works out the way it should.
Now Jennifer and I work with each other and there’s no going back to normal.

Then it turned into something more.

Gus isn’t for me. I know that.
Only the chemistry that burns between us won’t fade away.
We promise it will only be one night.
Then another.
But when our actions have consequences that could mean the end of our future, we’ll have to figure out exactly what we want.
Even if it means walking away broken before it begins.



**Happily Ever Maybe is a workplace, friends to lovers, in peril romance in the Montgomery Ink Legacy series featuring Jennifer and Gus. Each book can be read as a complete standalone. An HEA is guaranteed!**

Genres: Romance, Contemporary Romance, Novella, Contemporary, Romantic Suspense

142 pages, Kindle Edition

First published February 13, 2024

About the author

Carrie Ann Ryan is the New York Times and USA Today bestselling author of contemporary, paranormal, and young adult romance. Her works include the Montgomery Ink, Talon Pack, Promise Me, and Elements of Five series, which have sold millions of books worldwide. She's the winner of a RT Book of the Year and a Prism Award in her genres. She started writing while in graduate school for her advanced degree in chemistry and hasn’t stopped since. Carrie Ann has written over seventy-five novels and novellas with more in the works. When she’s not losing herself in her emotional and action-packed worlds, she’s reading as much as she can while wrangling her clowder of cats who have more followers than she does.

The Montgomery Ink World contains the following series, though each series is a stand alone and can be read in any order. Feel free to hop around:

The Montgomery Ink Series
The Gallagher Brothers Series
The Montgomery Ink: Colorado Springs Series
The Whiskey and Lies Series
The Fractured Connections Series
The Montgomery Ink: Boulder Series
The Less Than Series
The Promise Me Series

Her Elements of Five Series is her Young Adult Romance series while her other series are all adult.

Her Talon Pack series is set in the same world as the Redwood Pack series, only 30 years later.

The Dante's Circle, Holiday, Montana, and Branded Packs series are all individual series as well.

Reviews

[Nadine Bookaholic · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a fun quick read about Gus and Jennifer, two people that work for Montgomery Security that aren't related to the family. Crazy I know since there are so many Montgomery's LOL but others do work with them and we do occasionally get their stories too, just like this one. So a HUGE Thank you to 1,001 Dark Nights & Blue Box Press and of course to Carrie Ann Ryan for giving us this story that we may not have gotten otherwise. One of the great things about this Novella is that if you haven't read this series or even any of Carrie Ann Ryan's books before this can be read as a standalone and gives you a little taste of the authors work.

Read my FULL review here ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewHEM



**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
**𝓘 𝓪𝓵𝓼𝓸 𝓹𝓻𝓮-𝓸𝓻𝓭𝓮𝓻𝓮𝓭 𝓪 𝓴𝓲𝓷𝓭𝓵𝓮 𝓬𝓸𝓹𝔂
You can find me here:  https://linktr.ee/NadineBookaholic

[Ruthie Taylor · Rating 4 out of 5]

~~I received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads ~~

As a huge fan of all the Montgomery series, this was a lovely treat. If you have never read one, it will give you a taste of the goodness, and I’m sure spur you into reading others. I loved being back in the action, and seeing two of the team work out their future together.

The sparks fly, the unexpected causes Gus and Jen to reevaluate their views and their plans - whilst they also do the day job. Delicious read, that is for sure! Only one small problem, I’d always like more!

[Lauren | TransportedLFL · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you to Blue Box Press for the advanced reader copy. These opinions are my own.

The 1001 Dark Nights series is a great collection of novellas. Each can stand alone, but they also serve as an introduction to new authors. I was so pleased to have the opportunity to read Happily Ever Maybe. It's my first time reading anything by Carrie Ann Ryan, and I have meant to try her books for a while now.

Happily Ever Maybe is a super short and fast-paced novella that introduces the world of Montgomery Ink and Security. I think those already familiar with her books will especially appreciate it, as it clearly references a number of established characters and previous stories. There were a few spoilers for previous books in the series, but not enough to deter me from recommending this as an introduction to her stories.

I did feel that I was missing a bit of the backstory that would have made me connect better with the characters here. Being new to the world, I found that Gus and Jennifer seemed to have a bit of instalove. I didn't really feel I got to know the characters as well as I would have preferred.

But I really enjoyed seeing one of my favorite tropes: just one time to get it out of our systems. And this short story made me think that I would love the whole Montgomery world of intrigue and romantic suspense set in Colorado. I expect I will read more of the Montgomery Ink series.

Rounded up to 4 stars

[Mallory Lauder · Rating 3 out of 5]

Fun novella. Trope isn’t my fav but loved Gus and Jen is such a badass. Given I haven’t read anything else in the series I would like to go back and start from the top

[Michelle the Romance Witch · Rating 4 out of 5]

I’m not sure if it is the air in those Colorado mountains or just sharing space with those Montgomery’s, but I want whatever it is that creates just a combustible atmosphere and brings lovers together! Carrie Ann Ryan strikes again in a story about two of the Montgomery friends finding love, through lust, and their story is not only fast past, intense, and sensual, but emotionally confusing and just so packed with all the things, I’m not sure how she managed it all in such a short story. Jennifer and Gus have been circling one another for a while now, ever since they became coworker in the Montgomery security company, but when the temptation can no longer be resisted they give in to the attraction in a big way, promising one another it will only be one night. But now they are both feeling so much more than before and there are even more consequences that they have to deal with. Can two partners and best friends find a way to admit that their feelings have become much deeper, and can they do it before they lose something beautiful? I positively loved this story, even though I would have loved it to be so much longer, but sometimes needs must. As a short interlude between Montgomery main reads, Jen and Gus were perfect. Jen has such a hard shell around her that you wonder what it will take for Gus to break through and get to the soft center of her heart, but once he finally manages it, the emotional connection between them is obvious. Gus is such a protective, sweet, and loving guy that there is no doubt he will do everything for his woman, even if it means fighting her or stepping back when it kills him to do so. I loved the way these two pushed and pulled one another but ultimately found the balance to have the perfect relationship for them, even though it might not have looked perfect to others. The passion and connection between them were more than obvious every moment they were even thinking about one another and I cannot wait to see more of them in future Montgomery stories. Carrie Ann Ryan sure knows how to hook her readers and pull us in, even with only a few short and intriguing chapters. All hail the Queen of Colorado Hotties!

[WycEd Reader · Rating 4 out of 5]

Check out our full post for HAPPILY EVER MAYBE on Wicked Reads, which includes an excerpt.

Reviews by the Wicked Reads Review Team

Ruthie – ☆☆☆☆
As a huge fan of all the Montgomery series, this was a lovely treat. If you have never read one, it will give you a taste of the goodness, and I’m sure spur you into reading others. I loved being back in the action, and seeing two of the team work out their future together.

The sparks fly, the unexpected causes Gus and Jen to reevaluate their views and their plans – whilst they also do the day job. Delicious read, that is for sure! Only one small problem, I’d always like more!


Avid Reader – ☆☆☆
M/F Friends-to-Lovers

Jennifer and Gus have worked together for a while. Both have an attraction to the other, but they also don't really know what to do about it. Thinking it's just an itch, they scratch and it'll be over.

This is a quick read that was somewhat chaotic in theme. I liked the characters and wish this had been a little longer to truly get to see the characters pan out more.

Overall, a fun story with quick-thinking action and a fun couple.

Reviewers received a free copy of this book to read and review for Wicked Reads.

[Jennifer Leigh (jenjenbookfan) · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐇𝐚𝐩𝐩𝐢𝐥𝐲 𝐄𝐯𝐞𝐫 𝐌𝐚𝐲𝐛𝐞 is a novella in the Montgomery Ink Legacy series by Carrie Ann Ryan, featuring a spicy friends to lovers, workplace romance for Jennifer and Gus. They were partners at work, but the attraction between them was becoming a problem. Will one night together be enough to quell their desires, or will the consequences change the game forever?

I’ve had this author on my TBR for awhile, but I’ll admit I was intimidated by how many books already existed in this world. Then I got a chance to read this novella 4 books into a legacy series. It’s a sign, right?😂 Obviously, it’s a well-developed world with more than one generation established, but this novella was a fabulous entry point, and it has me under the Montgomery Ink spell, hook, line, and sinker! This was the first book I’ve read with 2 bodyguard MCs, and I loved the way they worked together as part of the team. The chemistry and the angst in the beginning was palpable, and the spice was on point. I enjoyed the twists and action along the way, and the banter of the other team members was fun and definitely makes me want to read the other books! Everything was well-developed for such a short format, and the ending was sweet. My only wish is that there would have been a glimpse a bit further into the future! When you read it, you’ll understand why I felt that way! I definitely recommend this whether you are an established fan of the series, or a newbie like me! With romance, action, and a twist or two, there’s something for everyone!

I received an ARC for free, and am leaving this review voluntarily.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶🌶.5

#happilyevermaybe #carrieannryan #montgomeryinklegacyseries #bodyguardromance #WorkplaceRomance #friendstolovers #novella #ContemporaryRomance

[Jessica Matts · Rating 5 out of 5]

Welcome back to Denver, and the Montgomery Ink world. A world—where once you become friends with an Montgomery—you’re now family for life…if you work with an Montgomery—you’re family for life.

Basically—you end up with a very large family.

Happily Ever Maybe is an novella within the Montgomery Ink Legacy world—and is Gus and Jennifer’s story. Gus and Jennifer are two security specialists that work with Noah, Daisy, Kane and others.

Gus and Jennifer have been ‘secretly’ crushing on each other for over a year…neither wanting to make a move that could damage their friendship or work relationship.

So what happens when they give into to their mutual ‘secret’ crush on each other?

What happens with various obnoxious clients, including client ‘x’?

Can they figure out their ‘relationship’ and how to make everything work…I’d say smoothly—but there are always bumps in the road when a Montgomery is around.

How big of a pain is their latest client?

The answers…are within the pages of Happily Ever Maybe.

I love the Montgomery Ink world…whether it’s in Denver, Colorado Springs, or Fort Collins. They’re a large, close loving family—one that I think just about anyone would want to be a part of…children are encouraged to be whatever they want when they get older…whether it’s a tattoo artist, a teacher, baker, or IT specialist.

If you’ve never jumped into the Montgomery Ink world—grab a cup of coffee (or tea), a comfy chair and settle in to meet Gus, Jennifer and various Montgomerys…and the best part—there is a whole world waiting to be explored after you’re done with Happily Ever Maybe.

[ZETTER · Rating 5 out of 5]

Changes!!!!

Gus worked at Montgomery Security, he was darn good bodyguard. He loved working with the Montgomerys and their extended families. He always felt like he was a part of their family, that's how they've always treated him. Despite loving the dynamic they all shared, there was one person who had him all up in his head. His teammate, Jennifer.

Jennifer wanted Gus from the first moment she saw him but the man didn't make a move. Now he was growling at him because he wanted her but did nothing about it. So after they both put their cards on table, they took that one step that allowed them to get things out of their systems. Well so they thought.

They both wanted more but were too afraid to make the first move. So life took action and threw them a curveball, one they couldn't ignore any longer. They found themselves in peril while on an assignment.

When the dust settled, they knew they could no longer hide what was in their hearts. Loved how their friends and families were there for them. And how they all were wondering why Gus and Jen didn't take the leap long before they did.

HAPPILY EVER NEVER is the second novella in Carrie Ann Ryan's MONTGOMERY INK LEGACY series. It was fast-paced, beautiful and a wonderful read. Fantastic job by the author! 👏🏾❤️

****I received this book, without any obligation to review.****

[Sarah Slusarczyk · Rating 4 out of 5]

Guess who’s back…back again? The Montgomery’s and they are playing with all of my emotions!

Happily Ever Maybe by the ever talented Carrie Ann Ryan is the next story in the Montgomery Ink Legacy series. Now this one is a novella, so it’s a but shorter, but nonetheless it is packed with all the goodness CAR is known for.

Gus and Jen are co-workers and partners now in the Montgomery Security Firm, both love their jobs, but both are feeling more than a little “friendly” with each other. Neither however want to make the first move and mess up their friendship or their working relationship. But what always happens in a good ole romance novel? That’s right. They finally give into their chemistry and agree to a glorified one-night stand. Yeah right. Neither of them was ready for what the night unlocked for them.

I will always go for CAR books. Her characters are so relatable and real when reading. Jen and Gus were a hoot! Jen is a baddie and she knows it, but under that strong personality is a soft, feminine woman just waiting for the right guy to make a move. Gus, well he holds a special place in my heart. He is everything you would want in an alpha guy; but with a golden boy personality. He is so sweet and I just love it for Jen. CAR is a word wizard and I can’t wait to see what she has waiting for us next.

4 ⭐
2 🌶️

[Michelle Pierce · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m really enjoying these novellas by Carrie Ann Ryan. This novella centers around Jennifer (Jen) and Gus who both work at Montgomery Security and Gus refers to her as his co-worker and nemesis but they both have off the chart chemistry and constantly flirt with each other. Definitely enjoyed these two characters until one glance at a job and they have to leap into action to stop a possible threat and that makes Gus angry at himself and a tad at Jen for distracting him. That however sparks their underlying chemistry, and a kiss becomes more. Jen soon finds out however that there are lingering effects to their time together and when a job goes South, Gus is injured, and so is Jen and that is when he finds out what has been going on with her and her news. Just when things were getting back to somewhat normal another threat turns up at the office of Montgomery Security and the ladies, while they are threatened, take charge and the guys show up at the moment where the threat has been handled and they just need to help when the police show up. That was one of my favorite parts. There is a line in this story that truly sums up the Montgomery family - - ‘when in the vicinity of the Montgomery’s, you become one. It’s a cult.’ This is a great novella and I definitely want more with this group of characters and especially Jen and Gus.

[Trish- Late Knight Luna Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

I’m always happy when I can go back to the Montgomery world. “Happily Ever Maybe” is a steamy, action packed and heartfelt novella from the Montgomery Ink world.

Gus works for Montgomery Security and has always felt like part of the family. All the workers are close but there is one of them he can’t stop thinking about, Jennifer. Jennifer is an important part of the team and also attracted to Gus. They give in to their attraction for one night and move along with their lives. But fate and the two pink lines have different ideas.

I loved Gus and Jennifer from the start and the connection they had was apparent right from the start. They both are in the same field and have so much in common just on that alone. The night they had together was steamy and set their relationship in motion. These two supported each other in their career choices and had each other’s backs for sure. Gus was respectful but protective of Jennifer which is a trait about him that I adored. Jennifer is a certified baddie and can protect herself but also lets Gus, which is so sweet. The book is fast paced since it’s a novella. The ending was perfect for Gus and Jennifer and I’m counting down days until the next Montogomery book.

[Alecia Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Happily Ever Maybe is a steamy coworkers to friends to lovers, “Let’s Just Do It Once to Get It Out of Our System” novella set in the Montgomery Ink Legacy world. Jennifer and Gus have been working together for about a year when their flirty banter can’t be contained and they have one night of explosive, totally HOT s8x. But can they go back to being friends especially when their job and lives are on the line?

I loved that Gus sees Jennifer as super capable and is turned on by it! He doesn’t want to coddle or protect her, he knows she can beat him up and take care of herself. Sigh Gus is just perfect book boyfriend material, tatted up, pierced (down there) and completely obsessed with Jennifer. Jennifer is a certified bada$$ heroine, but she has a soft side. The workplace dynamic/snark/ meddling with the Montgomeries made me laugh out loud.

I love the Montgomery world and these two getting their HEA just had me kicking my feet in glee. Happily Ever Maybe is a short, steamy romance with enough action to remind us it’s in the Montgomery Security world.

Thank you to the publisher 1001 Dark Nights for an e-ARC in exchange for an honest review. Happily Ever Maybe has a publish date of 2/13/24.

[Lexee Toste · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely loved this story! It pulled me in from beginning to end and I loved Jennifer and Gus. They have been working together on bodyguard jobs and hit it off from the start. They both felt the attraction to each other but never acted on it due to working together. That is, until it seems to start becoming more of a distraction so they decide on one night to get it out of their systems. Fate has other plans. I loved watching these two start coming to terms with the depth of their feelings for each other and figuring out that it was okay to take that step, that risk of trying for more. This story was entertaining and did not feel rushed though it is a novella, so it is shorter but since these guys have that foundation from working together and being so close prior to, it felt natural. They do have some things going on on the job that adds some of that tension as well. I truly enjoyed this story and loved getting to see these two figure everything out. This can be read as a standalone but extra bonuses if you have read the previous books in the series.
I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book.

[Diane · Rating 5 out of 5]

I voluntarily reviewed a copy of "HAPPILY EVER MAYBE" This was quick interesting, intriguing story with intense drama, danger, angst, humor, steam, violence, suspense, twists & surprises you didn't see coming.
Gus works with Montgomery Security as a bodyguard, installer of security equipment to protect clients & charges, he works with cyber security, Jen is co-worker & partner both have been dancing around each other until one night they decide to scratch the itch to see if that'll take the edge off their Bf's don't want to ruin a good thing.
Jen, Gus & security team are on an assignment when things turn rather disastrous he jumps to protect her life getting himself badly injured they both know they nean more to one another & she has a surprise she hasn't told him about.
I definitely recommend to get this fast paced romance you'll love Gus & Jennifer the team knows their meant for one another will they decide to take a chance, what will Gus do when he finds out her secret, will they get their HEA, its a must read you don't want to miss I thoroughly enjoyed the story & all the characters.
GREAT SHIRT INTERESTING DELIGHTFUL ROMANCE I LOVED IT 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤 🖤

[Kara Quade · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gus and Jennifer work for Montgomery Security. They have been fighting an intense sexual chemistry since the moment they met. While keeping their charges and themselves safe, they have tried to bury their feelings for each other. When Gus and Jennifer finally give into their attraction to each other, they agree it will only be one night to burn it out of their systems, and they will remain friends. Can two people who clearly have feelings for each other finally admit to the other how they feel? Will an unexpected surprise be a welcome surprise for Gus and Jennifer? Can Jennifer's independence mesh with Gus' protective instinct? Will Gus rush in when Jennifer is in danger, or will he let Jennifer show why she is so good at her job? I loved Happily Ever Maybe by Carrie Ann Ryan! Gus and Jennifer are a great couple with scorching hot chemistry, flirty banter, and co-workers who have each other's back. I would highly recommend getting Happily Ever Maybe and all the other books in the Montgomery Ink Legacy series by Carrie Ann Ryan. I received an ARC copy of this book, and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

[TLynn · Rating 4 out of 5]

“I know it might seem too soon, but I think I fell in love with you the first week we met, when you kicked my @ss, had me down on the mat, and then didn’t mock me. You just taught me how to do it better next time. That’s when I fell in love with you.”

Happily Ever Maybe is a novella between books 4 and 5 of the Montgomery Ink Legacy series. It is the story of Jennifer and Gus who are not a Montgomery but they work for Montgomery Security. It was a quick and easy book to read. It was perfect as a standalone and a great way to become familiar with the author.
The characters were awesome. Jennifer was confident and fearless while Gus was an alpha but had a heart of gold. They had chemistry together and made the perfect couple.

“..what I feel? That’s not going to change. It might grow a bit, it might settle, might bloom or whatever the h@ll you want to call it. But I’ll always love you.”

I love seeing the side characters in a series get their own story and I can never get enough of the Montgomery family.
I received an ARC and am voluntarily leaving a review. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Leslie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gus and Jennifer
In the past year Gus and Jennifer have risked their lives for each other, trusted each other with everything but the deepest parts of themselves, the quietest parts. Now they can’t keep their eyes off each other and it has become a distraction that is not safe for either of them in their line of business. Neither of them are good at relationships, but maybe if they act on their attraction just once, it will get it out of both their systems and they can go on working together. This a fast paced steamy friends to lovers novella that ticks all the boxes. It has heaps of emotion intermixed with bodyguard danger and suspense. Always love catching up with any the Montgomerys. Great addition to the “Montgomery Ink Legacy” Series.
I voluntarily read an early copy of this book.

[Whitney · Rating 4 out of 5]

I have been provided with a copy of Happily Ever Maybe from the author and I am voluntarily leaving an impartial review. Happily Ever Maybe is a novella in The Montgomery Ink Legacy series and it’s supposed to be a standalone story that you can read without reading the other books in the series. I don’t think this was completely successful and I believe this story was missing something. It seemed like you were just thrown into the middle of the story and should already know all the main cast and everything that had previously happened. Also some of the language wasn’t necessary and in my opinion took away from the overall enjoyment of the story. Other than that the story did get better and it started to flow better and ended up being really enjoyable. I would definitely read another book by this author.

[Carol · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jen and Gus worked together in security for the Montgomeries. They were attracted to each other but hadn't acted on it. When they did, it was spectacular. Then decided it was a one off. She turned up pregnant and he wasn't unhappy at all. They started seeing each other again and had to tell their co workers and bosses. None of them were surprised. There was romance, hot sex, drama and a great work environment. I loved how one of their co-workers had to go over the security tapes - especially embarrassing since they did it in the office. He assured them it wasn't the first time it had happened and he didn't watch all of it.

I got this from the author and am voluntarily leaving a review

[Liz · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recently read Happily Ever Maybe by Carrie Ann Ryan, A Montgomery Ink Legacy Novella that can be read as a standalone and was a fun read. This book is a fun treat for those that regularly read this author or a great place to jump in for new readers. Here we have Gus and Jen who have been working together for about a year and fighting the attraction they share. Gus was protective and patience and Jen was determined and independent. I loved both of them so much.

They both work for a security company where they put their lives on the line, can they trust someone they care about if they needed too? Which is why they struggle in deciding to ignore the pull they are feeling or give in? I enjoyed seeing them fall, manage their jobs and future while adding in some suspense. I enjoyed Happy Ever Maybe and highly recommend it.

Happy reading!

[Cathy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Jennifer and Gus after a year of flirting and being partners have changed the game. Their security detail is becoming increasingly difficult when they worry about each other. Especially Gus, his first instinct is to protect and with Jennifer that’s where he struggles. He knows he has a job to do but with Jennifer being his partner and in the way of harm, he has to compartmentalize it. Jennifer is a skilled,
Strong, can kick your butt woman who doesn’t need protection. As their relationship changes they need to find a balance with each other. Love this family line of “Montgomery’s”. Well you know how it is. The Montgomery’s just take you in their fold and you somehow become one. And just what is happening with Kane? Daisy? Kingston? Guess we’ll find out soon enough.

[Kari Hansen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Gus has been trying to deny his attraction for Jennifer, his friend and co-worker, however with each security detail that they find themselves on that is proving to be more difficult. When the chemistry between finally explodes they agree that it can’t continue however fate had other ideas.

Jennifer has been denying her feelings for Gus as well and is uncertain where she stands with him until they give in to the feelings between them. They decide to backtrack to friends only however life throws them a curveball they never saw coming.

Gus knows that Jennifer is more than capable of looking after herself but that doesn’t mean he doesn’t want to protect her. With the help of the Montgomery family they realize that they can have it all.

[Heather M Jones-Lancto · Rating 4 out of 5]

One of my favorite romance tropes is friends to lovers. Ryan has written a quirky, face paced love story between two strong willed co-workers. Gus and Jennifer have been partners at Montgomery Security for a while and the sexual tension between the two has been off the charts since they started working together. The pair decide to cut the tension between them by sharing in a one time fling; but of course that plan doesn't work as well as they hoped. Jennifer is a strong, independent woman who can stand up and take care of herself. Gus is an over protective male who now views Jennifer differently since they have had sex. This makes things complicated for the duo trying to continue their close friendship, their working partnership without ruining what they have developed.

I was hoping we were going to get Gus and Jennifer's story and Ryan did not disappointment. 'Happily Ever Maybe' is a fun quick read! What a great release for Valentine's Day.

I voluntarily read and reviewed an advanced copy of this book. All thoughts and opinions are my own.

[Avid Reader · Rating 3 out of 5]

Happily Ever Maybe (Montgomery Ink Legacy, #4.5) by Carrie Ann Ryan
3 stars
M/F Friends to Lovers
I was given this book for an honest review by Wicked Reads.

Jennifer and Gus have worked together for a while. Both have an attraction to the other, but they also don't really know what to do about it. Thinking it's just an itch, they scratch and it'll be over.

This is a quick read that was somewhat chaotic in theme. I liked the characters and wish this had been a little longer to truly get to see the characters pan out more.

Overall, fun story with quick thinking action and a fun couple.

[World Of Books 65 · Rating 5 out of 5]

Prepare to be swept off your feet by Carrie Ann Ryan’s latest Montgomery Ink Legacy Novella, nestled within the thrilling 1001 Dark Nights series! Returning to the dynamic setting of Montgomery Security, Gus and Jennifer burst onto the scene with undeniable chemistry that sizzles off the pages. After a year of tantalizing build-up, their electrifying connection finally takes center stage, delivering a reading experience that is as intense as it is satisfying. With Ma Ryan’s signature blend of heat and suspense, this novella is a rollercoaster ride of emotions that will leave you breathless and yearning for more.

[Toni L · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you are anything like me, Carrie Ann Ryan books are so prolific that it can be incredibly daunting to know where to start. So, this book makes a perfect taste and introduction. Set in the Montgomery Ink Legacy world, Gus and Jennifer would normally be side characters to a Montgomery but in Happily Ever Maybe they have their own story.

I loved this easy to read novella. While it was a quick read, the book takes place over time and charts their relationship. I loved that they were both total bosses but were allowed to be gentle and sensitive with each other. There is great interaction between the characters as well as some laughter. Overall, I just really enjoyed this book.

[lowkeyreader · Rating 4 out of 5]

I recently finished reading Happily Ever Maybe, and it was an enjoyable read. The story of Kendall Wilder, the head chef of Wilders Resort, and her ex-husband, a winery director, was engaging as they navigated their second chance at love. The book is filled with passionate and romantic scenes, and the setting of the resort added a charming backdrop to the story. While the plot was somewhat predictable, I found the overall journey of the characters heartwarming. The author's writing style is engaging, making it easy to get lost in the story. I would give this book a 4-star rating for its entertaining storyline and well-crafted romance.

[Virginia VanSaders · Rating 5 out of 5]

A best friends and partners romance.

Gus works for Montgomery Security as a body guard and installing security systems. Jennifer works for Montgomery Security, also, as Gus’ partner. The attraction with each other is a distraction to their work. Can they ever act on their attraction? They have also become best friends since they met a year ago. Their journey is good, with steam, but rocky at times with twists and turns. For a novella, this story is fast-paced and gets right to the point of things. Nothing is left out because it’s a novella. Great writing by Carrie Ann Ryan. I loved it!

[Cheryl · Rating 4 out of 5]

Gus and Jennifer work for Montgomery Security, are attracted to each other, but don’t know how to deal with the attraction. Do they ignore it and keep doing their jobs or give in to those feelings.
While they were most likely previously mentioned in the Montgomery Ink Legacy series, neither Gus nor Jennifer was on my radar as I was reading those books. I’m thrilled CAR wrote their story, though, because while short, it was full of action and emotion.
These fun 1001 Dark Nights novellas are a great way to focus on a Montgomery-adjacent couple, while giving new readers a less intimidating way to jump into the Montgomery world…one of my favorite places to visit!