Safe Haven

Briarwood #5

by E.M. Rose

Blaire Halston left Briarwood a year and a half ago and went to Florida to help her pregnant sister, Scarlett. She had just broken up with her boyfriend, Landon, at the time.
She wasn't planning on staying in Florida, but she ends up not having a choice in the matter.
Landon Cross never got over Blaire and regrets that he didn't chase her after their breakup. He would do anything to go back in time and beg Blaire to stay.
Now Blaire is back, and Landon and Blaire are about to be reunited.
Will they be able to reconnect and try again?

Genres: Ebooks, Amazon, Romance

135 pages, Kindle Edition

Published April 11, 2026

About the author

Author of the Briarwood & Savages Series!

Spoiled Rotten (Kings Series Book 1) will be out on 8.28.26!

The Black Rose Society Series is coming this fall! Sacred Vows is Book 1.

Stay tuned for more info!

Reviews

[Bella · Rating 5 out of 5]

Safe Haven completely stole my heart in the most beautiful, aching way. Going back to Briarwood always feels like coming home, but this story hit even deeper. Watching Blaire return after everything she’s been through and seeing Landon still carrying that quiet regret had me hooked from the very first page.

There is something so special about second chance romances when they are done right, and E.M. Rose absolutely delivers here. The connection between Blaire and Landon never felt forced. It felt real, layered, and full of history. You can feel the weight of what they lost and the pull of what they could still have. Every glance, every conversation, every moment between them had this emotional intensity that just builds and builds.

Landon is everything. The way he never truly let Blaire go, the way he owns his mistakes, and the way he shows up when it matters most had me completely swooning. E.M. Rose has this incredible talent for creating men that live rent free in your head, and Landon is no exception. He is tender, protective, and just the right amount of heartbreakingly devoted.

Blaire’s journey really stood out to me too. She is strong without losing her softness, and watching her navigate coming back to Briarwood and facing everything she left behind felt so authentic. You root for her just as much as you root for them together.

What makes this book shine is the emotion. It feels raw and honest in a way that stays with you long after you finish. The pacing is perfect, the chemistry is undeniable, and the payoff is so worth it. This is one of those stories that wraps around your heart and refuses to let go.

E.M. Rose is not just an incredible author but someone who pours so much love into her stories, and you can feel it in every single page. Her ability to create these unforgettable characters and these swoony, addictive romances is unmatched.

Safe Haven is a must read if you love second chance romance, emotional depth, and a love story that proves it is never too late to find your way back to the one who feels like home.

[Rose Bouknight · Rating 4 out of 5]

There are only three words I can use to describe this book. WTF. TBF, I really like these books but, wow, theses baddies r really into kidnapping. And not the fun kind. And the chicks? Sassy but naive. Take Aria for example. Her father MURDERED her mother, and yet she's not smart enough to even carry pepper spray with her. Or Elena. Absolutely hates her parents but is willing to run back the second she hears "I'm sorry"? What the hell!
The only female main characters that seem to have an idea what they're doing is Blaire and Lilli; who were smart enough to free themselves instead of waiting for someone to come and save them. And still, trouble comes and the first thing that comes to mind is abandoning the love of their lives and running away. And sacrificing themselves! Everytime.
Yeah. I get it, they love their guys. They don't want them get hurt, and yet it's a genius idea to go get ourselves hurt which inevitably gets them hurt. Why? It's not that hard to intercept yourself into the plan instead of running out. Stupidity does not equate to bravery. And running to the sacrifice yourself with no apparent plan, no ways of leading people to you, and no way to protect yourself is stupid.
Like the books, characters, psychological aspects, sexual tension, and spice. But the damsel in distress trope is a hard limit for me. Sorry not sorry, E.M., somebody needed to say it.

[OooLaLa Reads · Rating 5 out of 5]

Second Chance Chaos Done Right

OMG BESTIES… I have been WAITING for Blaire and Landon’s story and let me tell you... this did NOT disappoint. From chapter one, "Safe Haven" throws you straight into chaos, and I was instantly locked in. The suspense? THROUGH THE ROOF. My anxiety? Unwell. My emotions? All over the place.😬

This second-chance romance hit so good. Landon being all regretful, protective, and “it’s always been you”? Yeah… I folded immediately. And Blaire? Her journey, everything she’s been through, and the way she comes back into this found family dynamic... it just felt so real and intense.

Speaking of found family… I am OBSESSED. This whole Briarwood crew has me in a chokehold, and every book just deepens that connection. The stakes are higher, the danger is closer, and that “touch her & d!e” energy? LOUD.😳

And can we talk about that ending?! Because excuse me?? The way it perfectly sets up the next book with Asher... I’m already running, not walking.

This series is officially a MUST ADD. No debates. No hesitation.😉

My Ratings:  ⭐ 4.5/5  ▪︎  🥵 3.5/5

🥀 My ratings and review are my own. For my rating scale breakdown, head over to my Goodreads &/or Amazon profile! 🖤

[Chi-Ann Jays · Rating 5 out of 5]

A safe haven isn’t a place... it’s a person." 🥀

STOP EVERYTHING! 🚨 I am officially in my Safe Haven era and my heart is still racing. I had the absolute honor of being an ARC reader for the latest by E.M. Rose, and let’s just say... you are NOT ready for this one.

This story is the perfect "pressure cooker" of emotional grit and high-stakes tension. If you live for:

✨ Second Chance / Exes-to-Lovers (The history between them is everything)
✨ The "Touch Her and You Die" Rule (Maximum protective energy) ⛓️❤️
✨ A Massive, Grumpy MMC who would burn the world down for her
✨ A Deep, Raw Slow Burn that feels completely earned

...then you need to get this on your TBR immediately! 🏃‍♀️💨 It’s gritty, it’s raw, and it’s a masterclass in building chemistry under pressure. E.M. Rose absolutely delivered a story that proves refuge is found in the people we choose to trust.

🗓 MARK YOUR CALENDARS: April 11th! Huge thank you to E.M Rose for the early copy! 🤍

[Katie McJunkin · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review!! Honestly E.M. Rose can’t go wrong. All of her books are absolute perfection!!

In this Novella we get to learn more about Blaire and Landon who we’ve heard about in multiple early books. And honestly it was beyond beautiful!

Blaire left for Florida to help her pregnant sister and never returned. Landon was heartbroken. Come to find out nothing was as it seemed. Blaire was able to find her way back to her family and friends in Briarwood and reconnect with Landon. Landon was so hurt and built walls but as soon as he saw Blaire he melted and honestly what could be better than that. The story was great. The characters were great as always. And in this book you got more of ASHERRRRR!! Oh my goodness that man! I cannot wait for his book!!

The ending had me gasping and curious. I need to know what’s going on ASAP!! I will be *impatiently* waiting for the next book!!

[Teresa Silva · Rating 5 out of 5]

Safe Haven is a novella & I'm kind of glad the author chose to go this route rather than making it a more lengthy book. Even though it was shorter than her other books in the series, Landon & Blaire's story was perfectly written. Nothing was left out. You weren't confused. & it wasn't rushed, at all.

If you read the previous books in the Briarwood series then you know a little bit about Blaire & Landon. She left to Florida to help her pregnant sister & never returned. Leaving behind her friends, which are basically her family, & the man that loves her, heartbroken. But she returns & we finally get the answers we've been looking for! I even caught myself feeling a bit emotional with Blaire. Landon & Blaire got the reunion they needed. & the happy ending they deserved... & that ending!! All I can say is I cannot wait for the next book in the series!

[Payton Lollar · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC review
WOW! This novella was FANTASTIC!! Blaire and Landon’s story was absolutely beautifully written! The space, support, and time that was given to Blaire by everyone honestly healed something in me! She has amazing people in her corner and all of the Briarwood characters are truly wonderful. The connection and family bond between them melts my heart. This story is deeply captivating and the emotion runs strong. You can tell that Blaire is loved and you can almost feel the emotion slip off the page. I am invested in this series!

Asher is an amazing character as well and I couldn’t help but obsess when he showed up throughout this book! The ending had me on edge and I CANNOT wait to read his story next in Beautiful Revenge! I loved Blaire and Landon’s story and I am beyond excited to read Asher’s!

[B · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book completely pulled me in from the very first chapter and never let go. The characters felt real, emotional, and so easy to connect with, and the chemistry was absolutely unforgettable. I found myself completely invested in every twist, every emotional moment, and every bit of tension along the way.

The writing flowed so naturally and made it impossible to put down. I laughed, stressed, swooned, and honestly did not want the story to end. The author did an amazing job creating a world that felt immersive and addictive while still giving the characters depth and heart.

If you love emotional moments, incredible chemistry, and a story that keeps you hooked until the very last page, this is definitely a must read. Easily a 5 star read for me and I will absolutely be reading more from this author.

[Tiffany · Rating 4 out of 5]

I ate this novella up. Safe Haven is a beautifully written novella and book 5 in the Briarwood series. Blaire is a strong FMC who went through alot. The reunion between Blaire and Landon was everything I hoped. The connection between them was layered and full of history.

I love the way the other characters gave Blaire the space, time and support she needed to heal. They were amazing with her. Landon never stopped loving her. So happy that they got their happy ending. Safe Haven isn't a place, it's a person.

If your looking for a short, spicy read and you enjoy Second Chance/Exes, Protective MMC, Found family, Touch her & die, It’s Always Been You. Then this novella may be for you.

Thank you to the author for the opportunity to ARC read Landon's and Blaire's story!❤️😊

[Nicole · Rating 4 out of 5]

Book 5 in the Briarwood Series

In this novella we get to experience Landon and Blaire’s story.

Blaire left Landon to help her pregnant sister. She struggles trying to find her way back to Landon leaving him heart broken.

When she eventually finds her way back to him she brings answers on why it toke so long for her to return. Landon calls her by her nickname revealing she is still his even after all this time. You can just feel the chemistry between the two of them.

I really enjoyed how well paced the story is with a build up to the next book.

If your looking to get into a spicy romance series then this may be what your looking for.

ཐིཋྀ Novella
ཐིཋྀSecond Chance
ཐིཋྀTouch Her and 💀
ཐིཋྀProtective MMC
ཐིཋྀIt's Always Been You

[Shay · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sometimes your safe haven isn’t a place, it’s a person.

Blaire and Landon 💕
A Briarwood Novella.

Releasing on 4/11/26, Safe Haven ties up some loose ends of characters mentioned previously in books. Blaire, the former best friend of Aria and ex girlfriend of Landon. Landon owns Neon, a nightclub in Blairwood.

Safe Haven was a short glimpse into what happened to Blaire after she left Blairwood to help her sister with the baby and never returned.

I never thought a novella could grip me the way this one did. @emroseauthor you keep coming hit after hit.

This is a can’t miss story. Check it out on release day. April 11,2026.

[Mrs Reads Between The Lines · Rating 4 out of 5]

A powerful second-chance romance defined by obsession and "touch her and die" energy—a raw emotional upheaval that will break you down and heal you. The chemistry between Landon and Blaire is palpable, especially as Landon stops holding back his intensity and fully embraces their undeniable attraction. If you’re looking for a short, spicy read that delivers an unbreakable bond between a sweet, selfless heroine and a man whose love is as unapologetic as it is fiercely protective, this is the book for you.

*Please read trigger and content warnings.*

I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advanced copy.

[Vicki · Rating 4 out of 5]

I'll get into this later, but I need to start off by telling you this is straight Gossip Girl vibes.

I LOVED this book! I haven't actually read anything in the Briarwood series, even though this a novella that takes place after book 4. Good news, you don't need to read the full series to enjoy it!

I really loved the found family dynamic of all the characters, and the fact that this felt like Gossip Girl...the show. I can't explain it, and no, it was not the FMC's name. But E.M. really captured the feel of Blair and Serena.

Thank you, E.M. Rose, for the ARC opportunity. This honest review has been left voluntarily.

[Andrea Hendry · Rating 5 out of 5]

EM has done it again. Safe haven was beautifully written. Blaire and Landon story is the fifth book in the Briarwood series and it lived up to my expectations. This story was well written and will keep you reading. These two together was everything I was hoping it to be. You get everything from second chance to touch her and die. This book broke me emotionally and healed me all in one. The ending had me screaming and curious as to what gonna happen next. I’m patiently waiting for the next book in the series.

[Kayleigh Owen · Rating 5 out of 5]

Arc review
Safe Haven by EM Rose
Stars ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Chilli 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

This was my most anticipated FMC and MMC from this series that I’ve been wanting to read and meet and they did not disappoint!
Blaire is the most sweetest and whole hearted FMC! Landon loves unapologetically. These 2 together are everything. The story, the build up for the next book. Second chance? Come on!!!! This series has consumed me in so many ways. Broke me and Healed me. The novella was everything and worked so well for Blaire and Landon.
The build up for the next book was impeccable!! GIVE ME ASHER!!!

[Samantha Abram · Rating 5 out of 5]

I started and finished this book in less than 2 hours. I knew this book would be good, considering they all have been. We got the conclusion of Landon and Blaire after getting bits of their backstory through the other books in the series, and we get the perfect lead up to Asher’s book!!

When I say I devoured the book, I mean that. I am not so patiently waiting to read the 6th book now since we got glimpses of it in this one!!

[Sam · Rating 5 out of 5]

Insert my newest obsession on this series. Landon comes across so emotionally mature it adds another layer to his sexiness. From the second he called her his butterfly it was obvious no matter how long they’d been apart that he would be there for. To him she was still his and nothing that happened during their time apart would stop them. I also loved Blaire, she was fierce and did what she during her time away to survive.

[Jennifer Mckown · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was honor to be an arc reader for this lovely author and this story was phenomenal. The second chance vibes were vibing! The characters were all well written and since I haven’t read anything by her. Now it’s making me want to read the rest of the briarwood series and learn more about them! Great read and I highly recommend you reading about Landon and Blaire.

[Calm Your Pits · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sort and spicy read with a second chance romance that heals souls at the same time. She returns from basically amounts to hell and he is waiting for her patiently, regretting not going after her once he hears what happen while she was gone to keep her away for so long. The dynamics between characters is amazing is the spice is spicing in the small amount of time you get with these characters.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

Wait.....Whaaaaat?!?!?! That ending.....I need to know. Yes or No?!?!?

I was sooooo happy to get Blaire story and even more excited that Landon got his girl back.

I love this series and family so much!

Onto the next book, book 6! Releases 5/15/2026. Pre-order it today! Thank me later!

[Reading is escaping reality · Rating 5 out of 5]

If you’re looking for a short, spicy, over protective men that are just looking to protect the women they love, all while the women are strong. Well then this is your book! They are so hot together especially when he stops treating her like glass. I can’t wait to see what’s to come next!

[Jess the Bookaholic · Rating 5 out of 5]

🤩🤩🤩🤩🤩
I devoured this spicy novella in a day! My first time reading E M Rose and I’m ready to jump straight into the Briarwood Series headfirst!
A short intense read (check the TW!) of kidnapping, found family and second chances. I can’t wait to head back to Briarwood with Sinful Secrets!

[Harley · Rating 5 out of 5]

…

I love briarwood an never want it to end.. I think this one might be my favorite out of this series. It’s not complete but well worth the wait

[Ashley · Rating 4 out of 5]

Utterly obsessed with this book and the series as a whole. Cannot believe be how quickly I read this book. One of the top reads I could not put down!