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Three Minutes: A Standalone Dark Romance
THREE MINUTES — THREE FUCKING MINUTES CHANGED EVERYTHING.
It took something precious, something I can never get back. It destroyed me, burned me alive, leaving painful scars to remind me of what I'd done.
My existence is nothing less than a burning hell. And I deserve it.
All that I've ever loved has turned to ash, leaving behind unanswered questions that haunt my dreams.
My once-beating heart is now a dark, burning ember in my chest, with no rain in sight to extinguish the searing fire within me—until her.
It took something precious, something I can never get back. It destroyed me, burned me alive, leaving painful scars to remind me of what I'd done.
My existence is nothing less than a burning hell. And I deserve it.
All that I've ever loved has turned to ash, leaving behind unanswered questions that haunt my dreams.
My once-beating heart is now a dark, burning ember in my chest, with no rain in sight to extinguish the searing fire within me—until her.
- GenresDark Romance
275 pages, ebook
Published May 24, 2026
About the author
L.D. Pack
2 books58 followersAn all-romance author who doesn't just create in-depth stories; she makes you feel every single page && emotion.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 51 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
If there’s one thing L.D. Pack knows how to do, it’s write deep emotional grief, self-doubt, and heartbreak that cuts straight to your heart.
Three Minutes was very character driven. I loved getting Ezra’s POV. This is a man carrying so much grief, guilt, and pain. The way he blames himself, punishes himself, and truly believes he doesn’t deserve anything good in his life was heartbreaking to witness.
Watching him slowly work through that fear and pain, and seeing his growth throughout the story, was one of my favorite parts of this book. Sometimes all it takes is one person to show you a little bit of light and remind you that you deserve more — and Raina was exactly that for Ezra.
I loved watching their relationship unfold. 🖤
Three Minutes was very character driven. I loved getting Ezra’s POV. This is a man carrying so much grief, guilt, and pain. The way he blames himself, punishes himself, and truly believes he doesn’t deserve anything good in his life was heartbreaking to witness.
Watching him slowly work through that fear and pain, and seeing his growth throughout the story, was one of my favorite parts of this book. Sometimes all it takes is one person to show you a little bit of light and remind you that you deserve more — and Raina was exactly that for Ezra.
I loved watching their relationship unfold. 🖤
Read
May 20, 2026Oh, how I just loved Ezra and Raina' story. Three Minutes is a standalone dark romance packed full of all of the feels. It is also incredibly unique in the way it is written solely from the MMCs POV which I actually really appreciated. This story leans heavily into the mental health rep. but more notably from the male's perspective, which I think as a society we do not see enough of.
The story focuses primarily on Ezra's life, the traumatic incident he faced as a teenager, and how that impacted him into his late 20s. The story begins by introducing you to a young Ezra as he grows up and what trauma he endured that ultimately shaped who he is now. I found myself deeply connecting with Ezra and genuinely feeling his pain like it was my own. I think being able to understand a character's struggles on that level just goes to show how thoughtful, description and intentional L.D. Pack's writing was when it comes to letting readers into Ezras's mind and the demons he faces on a daily basis.
I loved Ezra. He is fiercely protective of those he loves, and he carries so much hurt I just wanted to give him the biggest hug. He's a little grumpy and I ate that up. It was so nice to see him soften because of Raina and Mango. (IYKYK).
Raina is the perfect FMC for this story. Their playful banter and her smart mouth made for the best time. I love that she was not a push over and always stood up for herself and what she wanted. We love a woman who knows her worth. I really enjoyed getting to know her and I felt that was achieved even though those moments came from Ezra's POV. I don't feel like it was lacking despite that.
I absolutely loved the buildup of this story when it comes to the plot and his connection with Raina. Their story just felt so natural and a perfect blend of spicy and tender/intimate moments. Ezra tries really hard to push Raina away when he starts to feel like they are getting too close, but I think Raina provided that persistence and comfort that Ezra so badly needed. The way Ezra was able to let down his guard for her even if it was for a few moments was so special and I really appreciated how they shared important moments from their past and didn't just get to know each other on a physical level.
There were several aspects of this story that pleasantly caught me by surprise. I won't dive too deep into it but let's just say I found myself loving Beck and Blake's presence in the story. These two characters are best friends with Ezra and have grown up alongside him. Blake was that comedic relief you love to see in a story and Beck was just a precious soul who only wanted Ezra to be happy.
The last few chapters of this book got super intense, and I really enjoyed how it all panned out especially the plot twists. I love when a book can put me on the edge of my seat and there are definitely some very high stakes moments. I feel like all of the plot pots were addressed by the end of the story and I was really happy with how this story ended for everyone. It was a super heartwarming moment at the end to see how far Ezra had come in his journey of honestly learning how to truly live again and allow happiness into his life.
For someone so incredibly hard on themselves, which I relate to, Ezra genuinely is so selfless and would be those he loves before himself. I am so glad L.D. let us into his head on such a deep level and allowed us to fully understand why he did what he did because it made me appreciate his healing and growth that much more.
Overall, Three Minutes is a beautiful love story about two individuals who despite their pasts were able to find a love that makes them want to be the best version of themselves, but more importantly it is a story of a man who endured a terrible tragedy but learned that you have to stop blaming yourself and live the life they would want you to be living. Sometimes bad things happen and no matter how bad we wish we could change it, we can't and we have to learn to live with that, not blame ourselves and instead make the people you love proud because at the end of the day they would want nothing but the best for you. That is just what this story meant to me at least.
Thank you so much L.D. for the ARC. I am grateful to know you and support you on your author journey.
The story focuses primarily on Ezra's life, the traumatic incident he faced as a teenager, and how that impacted him into his late 20s. The story begins by introducing you to a young Ezra as he grows up and what trauma he endured that ultimately shaped who he is now. I found myself deeply connecting with Ezra and genuinely feeling his pain like it was my own. I think being able to understand a character's struggles on that level just goes to show how thoughtful, description and intentional L.D. Pack's writing was when it comes to letting readers into Ezras's mind and the demons he faces on a daily basis.
I loved Ezra. He is fiercely protective of those he loves, and he carries so much hurt I just wanted to give him the biggest hug. He's a little grumpy and I ate that up. It was so nice to see him soften because of Raina and Mango. (IYKYK).
Raina is the perfect FMC for this story. Their playful banter and her smart mouth made for the best time. I love that she was not a push over and always stood up for herself and what she wanted. We love a woman who knows her worth. I really enjoyed getting to know her and I felt that was achieved even though those moments came from Ezra's POV. I don't feel like it was lacking despite that.
I absolutely loved the buildup of this story when it comes to the plot and his connection with Raina. Their story just felt so natural and a perfect blend of spicy and tender/intimate moments. Ezra tries really hard to push Raina away when he starts to feel like they are getting too close, but I think Raina provided that persistence and comfort that Ezra so badly needed. The way Ezra was able to let down his guard for her even if it was for a few moments was so special and I really appreciated how they shared important moments from their past and didn't just get to know each other on a physical level.
There were several aspects of this story that pleasantly caught me by surprise. I won't dive too deep into it but let's just say I found myself loving Beck and Blake's presence in the story. These two characters are best friends with Ezra and have grown up alongside him. Blake was that comedic relief you love to see in a story and Beck was just a precious soul who only wanted Ezra to be happy.
The last few chapters of this book got super intense, and I really enjoyed how it all panned out especially the plot twists. I love when a book can put me on the edge of my seat and there are definitely some very high stakes moments. I feel like all of the plot pots were addressed by the end of the story and I was really happy with how this story ended for everyone. It was a super heartwarming moment at the end to see how far Ezra had come in his journey of honestly learning how to truly live again and allow happiness into his life.
For someone so incredibly hard on themselves, which I relate to, Ezra genuinely is so selfless and would be those he loves before himself. I am so glad L.D. let us into his head on such a deep level and allowed us to fully understand why he did what he did because it made me appreciate his healing and growth that much more.
Overall, Three Minutes is a beautiful love story about two individuals who despite their pasts were able to find a love that makes them want to be the best version of themselves, but more importantly it is a story of a man who endured a terrible tragedy but learned that you have to stop blaming yourself and live the life they would want you to be living. Sometimes bad things happen and no matter how bad we wish we could change it, we can't and we have to learn to live with that, not blame ourselves and instead make the people you love proud because at the end of the day they would want nothing but the best for you. That is just what this story meant to me at least.
Thank you so much L.D. for the ARC. I am grateful to know you and support you on your author journey.
Read
May 18, 2026Ezra my heart goes out to you!
Lindsay thank you so much for the ARC!
I was sucked in from the very first chapter. The relationships in this are beautifully told from Mother and Son, to Friendships, to falling in love.
This is full of emotions and you will feel every moment right along with Ezra.
I cannot say enough good things about this, and if I could give it 6 stars I absolutely would!
Lindsay thank you so much for the ARC!
I was sucked in from the very first chapter. The relationships in this are beautifully told from Mother and Son, to Friendships, to falling in love.
This is full of emotions and you will feel every moment right along with Ezra.
I cannot say enough good things about this, and if I could give it 6 stars I absolutely would!
May 23, 2026
My first L.D. Pack book and I’ll definitely be coming back for more!
The way this book was able to gut me from the losses to the self-harm to the unbelievable grief shattering Ezra’s world! In a very short amount of time, during his formative teenage years (13-16), Ezra had to stab his father to save his mother from him, lost his mother and uncle (as well as his house) in a fire, and was forced to grow up too fast for an otherwise calm and happy kid.
From the first incident with his father, Ezra developed PTSD and anxiety, leading to frequent panic attacks. These worsened, and his self-harm started, with the fire in his childhood home that took his mother and uncle from him at 16. His unhealthy coping mechanism was punishing himself for not being home on time, by three minutes, to “save” his family from the fire or die with them. He resorted to self-harm and chose to be alone because he didn’t feel good enough for anyone and that everyone around him would get hurt by being associated with him.
I wanted to hug Ezra so much and toss that damn lighter in the trash so many times!! Despite being a bit of a mysterious man with depression and unhealthy coping mechanisms, he was a gentleman and definitely took care of those he loved. He was such a good person and knowing how much grief and anguish he held, as well as how much hate he had for himself, hit me right in the feels over and over again. I couldn’t stop rooting for him even when he didn’t want to root for himself.
I really liked Raina, our FMC. She was little, but fierce. Young, but smart. Bubbly, but strong-willed. I think she was the absolutely perfect person for Ezra, not only because she could get him outside of his dark thoughts but because she had no problem calling him on his shit. I loved that he could hide himself from everyone, except Raina. This bubbly woman saw through his scars and his defenses to the fragile man on the inside, making him fall for her and open up to another person for the first time. She also had her own dealings with grief, so she was able to connect with him on another level. Further, I loved that she told him to stop stringing her along and left him, but then she showed up when he was at his worst. A woman definitely older than her years and definitely his perfect match.
I loved Ezra’s found family in Eric, Beck, and Blake. They were so good to him, always having his back, even Beck with their rough patches. I honestly loved Blake so much, with how funny and all-seeing he was, and would totally read a book with him as the MMC!
I loved the endometriosis rep in the book and how Ezra deep dove into researching everything he could about it to understand Raina’s condition. I loved how he also planned the perfect rooftop period picnic for her!
Thank you to L.D. Pack for the eARC! The opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
The way this book was able to gut me from the losses to the self-harm to the unbelievable grief shattering Ezra’s world! In a very short amount of time, during his formative teenage years (13-16), Ezra had to stab his father to save his mother from him, lost his mother and uncle (as well as his house) in a fire, and was forced to grow up too fast for an otherwise calm and happy kid.
From the first incident with his father, Ezra developed PTSD and anxiety, leading to frequent panic attacks. These worsened, and his self-harm started, with the fire in his childhood home that took his mother and uncle from him at 16. His unhealthy coping mechanism was punishing himself for not being home on time, by three minutes, to “save” his family from the fire or die with them. He resorted to self-harm and chose to be alone because he didn’t feel good enough for anyone and that everyone around him would get hurt by being associated with him.
I wanted to hug Ezra so much and toss that damn lighter in the trash so many times!! Despite being a bit of a mysterious man with depression and unhealthy coping mechanisms, he was a gentleman and definitely took care of those he loved. He was such a good person and knowing how much grief and anguish he held, as well as how much hate he had for himself, hit me right in the feels over and over again. I couldn’t stop rooting for him even when he didn’t want to root for himself.
I really liked Raina, our FMC. She was little, but fierce. Young, but smart. Bubbly, but strong-willed. I think she was the absolutely perfect person for Ezra, not only because she could get him outside of his dark thoughts but because she had no problem calling him on his shit. I loved that he could hide himself from everyone, except Raina. This bubbly woman saw through his scars and his defenses to the fragile man on the inside, making him fall for her and open up to another person for the first time. She also had her own dealings with grief, so she was able to connect with him on another level. Further, I loved that she told him to stop stringing her along and left him, but then she showed up when he was at his worst. A woman definitely older than her years and definitely his perfect match.
I loved Ezra’s found family in Eric, Beck, and Blake. They were so good to him, always having his back, even Beck with their rough patches. I honestly loved Blake so much, with how funny and all-seeing he was, and would totally read a book with him as the MMC!
I loved the endometriosis rep in the book and how Ezra deep dove into researching everything he could about it to understand Raina’s condition. I loved how he also planned the perfect rooftop period picnic for her!
Thank you to L.D. Pack for the eARC! The opinions expressed above are honest and my own.
July 27, 2026
Monarch butterflies symbolize transformation and resilience, and those themes are woven beautifully throughout this gut-wrenching story.
This book is raw, gritty, and, at times, absolutely heartbreaking. The author’s portrayal of grief, trauma, and mental health is handled with such authenticity and care that it felt incredibly real. I found myself laughing one moment, tearing up the next, then sitting on the edge of my seat in complete suspense.
The MMC completely stole my heart. He is a broken, tortured soul, and all I wanted was to reach into the pages and help him heal. His journey was painful, inspiring, and impossible not to become invested in.
So many moments in this story resonated with me. The exhaustion of masking what’s happening inside while pretending everything is okay. The helplessness of loving someone deeply but not knowing how to ease their pain. Those emotions were captured so powerfully that I can’t stop thinking about this story.
This is one of those books that makes you feel everything. It’s emotional, suspenseful, hopeful, and ultimately a beautiful reminder that healing isn’t linear, but transformation is possible. An unforgettable read.
This book is raw, gritty, and, at times, absolutely heartbreaking. The author’s portrayal of grief, trauma, and mental health is handled with such authenticity and care that it felt incredibly real. I found myself laughing one moment, tearing up the next, then sitting on the edge of my seat in complete suspense.
The MMC completely stole my heart. He is a broken, tortured soul, and all I wanted was to reach into the pages and help him heal. His journey was painful, inspiring, and impossible not to become invested in.
So many moments in this story resonated with me. The exhaustion of masking what’s happening inside while pretending everything is okay. The helplessness of loving someone deeply but not knowing how to ease their pain. Those emotions were captured so powerfully that I can’t stop thinking about this story.
This is one of those books that makes you feel everything. It’s emotional, suspenseful, hopeful, and ultimately a beautiful reminder that healing isn’t linear, but transformation is possible. An unforgettable read.
June 9, 2026
this had so much potential.
2.75 ⭐️ Sadly i could not connect to this story or the characters, it took 50% of the book to figure out who the fmc would become there were 2 that were potentially the fmc. The second i had like 60 pages left and they were going through a breakup i knew the ending would be rushed…. And it was.. we also had a surprise pregnancy that the doctors i guess forgot to mention to him when the fmc was in a coma? Idk i feel like with almost 300 pages the story needed more development and the relationship needed more sauce.
2.75 ⭐️ Sadly i could not connect to this story or the characters, it took 50% of the book to figure out who the fmc would become there were 2 that were potentially the fmc. The second i had like 60 pages left and they were going through a breakup i knew the ending would be rushed…. And it was.. we also had a surprise pregnancy that the doctors i guess forgot to mention to him when the fmc was in a coma? Idk i feel like with almost 300 pages the story needed more development and the relationship needed more sauce.
May 20, 2026
Omg, I fell in love with Ezra Stone. This standalone dark romance has anguish, heartache, spice, healing, love, and plot. I cannot recommend this read more! Make this your next dark romance read!
May 24, 2026
Some books tell a love story. This one felt like stepping inside someone’s soul and carrying their pain right alongside them.
Three Minutes wrecked me in the quietest way.
What hit me hardest wasn’t just the romance it was the raw honesty. Watching a man carry years of grief, guilt, and trauma while believing he was undeserving of happiness was absolutely heartbreaking.
Ezra isn’t your typical dark romance hero. He’s guarded, haunted, and surviving more than he’s living. Every page felt heavy with the weight he carries, and the emotional depth behind his character was impossible not to feel.
The decision to tell this story entirely through the MMC’s perspective made it stand out in such a powerful way. We don’t often get to sit inside a male character’s mind with this level of vulnerability, and it made every fear, every spiral, every tiny step forward feel so much more personal.
Then comes Raina.
She wasn’t there to “fix” him, and I loved that. She challenged him, saw him, and gave him space to be human. Their connection wasn’t instant perfection it was layered, messy, emotional, and built through trust. The tension, the softer moments, the chemistry… it all felt earned.
And can we talk about the emotional damage this book delivers? Because wow. This story dives into trauma, survivor’s guilt, mental health, healing, friendship, and the difficult reality of learning how to live when part of you still feels trapped in the past.
The side characters added so much heart too. The friendships felt genuine and gave moments of warmth when the story became emotionally heavy. Those relationships mattered just as much as the romance, and I appreciated that balance.
The final stretch had me completely locked in. The intensity ramps up, emotions run high, and by the end I was sitting there with that bittersweet ache only certain books leave behind.
At its heart, Three Minutes isn’t just about falling in love. It’s about learning that surviving isn’t the same as living.
It’s about facing the ghosts you carry. It’s about accepting that tragedy may shape you, but it doesn’t have to define the rest of your story.
And most importantly, it’s about allowing yourself to believe that maybe… even with all the scars, you’re still worthy of love.
This one stayed with me long after I turned the last page. ❤️🩹
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️ Emotional spice + tender intimacy 🖤 Dark themes 🫶 Mental health representation ✨ Healing journey 🔥 Protective MMC 💕 Emotional romance with suspense elements
Thank you Lindsey are the arc opportunity for your 2nd book release it was truly an honor
Three Minutes wrecked me in the quietest way.
What hit me hardest wasn’t just the romance it was the raw honesty. Watching a man carry years of grief, guilt, and trauma while believing he was undeserving of happiness was absolutely heartbreaking.
Ezra isn’t your typical dark romance hero. He’s guarded, haunted, and surviving more than he’s living. Every page felt heavy with the weight he carries, and the emotional depth behind his character was impossible not to feel.
The decision to tell this story entirely through the MMC’s perspective made it stand out in such a powerful way. We don’t often get to sit inside a male character’s mind with this level of vulnerability, and it made every fear, every spiral, every tiny step forward feel so much more personal.
Then comes Raina.
She wasn’t there to “fix” him, and I loved that. She challenged him, saw him, and gave him space to be human. Their connection wasn’t instant perfection it was layered, messy, emotional, and built through trust. The tension, the softer moments, the chemistry… it all felt earned.
And can we talk about the emotional damage this book delivers? Because wow. This story dives into trauma, survivor’s guilt, mental health, healing, friendship, and the difficult reality of learning how to live when part of you still feels trapped in the past.
The side characters added so much heart too. The friendships felt genuine and gave moments of warmth when the story became emotionally heavy. Those relationships mattered just as much as the romance, and I appreciated that balance.
The final stretch had me completely locked in. The intensity ramps up, emotions run high, and by the end I was sitting there with that bittersweet ache only certain books leave behind.
At its heart, Three Minutes isn’t just about falling in love. It’s about learning that surviving isn’t the same as living.
It’s about facing the ghosts you carry. It’s about accepting that tragedy may shape you, but it doesn’t have to define the rest of your story.
And most importantly, it’s about allowing yourself to believe that maybe… even with all the scars, you’re still worthy of love.
This one stayed with me long after I turned the last page. ❤️🩹
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️ Emotional spice + tender intimacy 🖤 Dark themes 🫶 Mental health representation ✨ Healing journey 🔥 Protective MMC 💕 Emotional romance with suspense elements
Thank you Lindsey are the arc opportunity for your 2nd book release it was truly an honor
May 28, 2026
ARC READ ||
out now!
First of all, I wanted to thank Lindsay for allowing me to be one of her ARC readers again. This is her second book and she never fails to make me FEEL while reading. Had me sobbing at the end, thanks for that!
This book hooks you IMMEDIATELY in the beginning which is such a relief. I have been having such a hard time getting into books lately, so I was so excited that I was finally able to enjoy a story again!
This story is beautiful, heartbreaking, captivating, and just overall perfection. Much like all the characters in this book (except for Joseph, fuck that guy). I’m not gunna lie, I was heartbroken when it wasn’t Ezra and Beck, I love them together and I think ultimately, even after reading why they could never be, I still will always root for them.
- I loved reading and seeing the character development and how Ezra was finally able to feel. He was able to let go of the guilt he shouldn’t have felt. He was able to love and finally able to beloved. All the turmoil and battles he felt and us, as readers, able to read and FEEL that? You know this book was well written.
I also loved the fact that it was in Ezra’s POV the whole time. There is just something about a man’s POV that makes me fall in love with the story. I think it’s the fact we can read their thoughts, the yearning! UGH! Even the cruel thoughts and nightmares he had. He was such a beautiful character that just needed to be held on the floor of a bar. I could have been that person for you Ezra and I still can!
This book had everything I could have asked for. Love, heartbreak, emotion, action, and most importantly, family. This story was just perfect and I’m adding this to the list of “If I ever lose my memory, I’m going to want to read this again for the first time.” For those reading it for the first time, you are so lucky, knock me out now so I can join you!
I said it once to her and I will never stop; whatever crack she was on writing this? I need some. She ATE with this one, truly! If you thought TROTS was a good one, please be ready for this one!
out now!
First of all, I wanted to thank Lindsay for allowing me to be one of her ARC readers again. This is her second book and she never fails to make me FEEL while reading. Had me sobbing at the end, thanks for that!
This book hooks you IMMEDIATELY in the beginning which is such a relief. I have been having such a hard time getting into books lately, so I was so excited that I was finally able to enjoy a story again!
This story is beautiful, heartbreaking, captivating, and just overall perfection. Much like all the characters in this book (except for Joseph, fuck that guy). I’m not gunna lie, I was heartbroken when it wasn’t Ezra and Beck, I love them together and I think ultimately, even after reading why they could never be, I still will always root for them.
- I loved reading and seeing the character development and how Ezra was finally able to feel. He was able to let go of the guilt he shouldn’t have felt. He was able to love and finally able to beloved. All the turmoil and battles he felt and us, as readers, able to read and FEEL that? You know this book was well written.
I also loved the fact that it was in Ezra’s POV the whole time. There is just something about a man’s POV that makes me fall in love with the story. I think it’s the fact we can read their thoughts, the yearning! UGH! Even the cruel thoughts and nightmares he had. He was such a beautiful character that just needed to be held on the floor of a bar. I could have been that person for you Ezra and I still can!
This book had everything I could have asked for. Love, heartbreak, emotion, action, and most importantly, family. This story was just perfect and I’m adding this to the list of “If I ever lose my memory, I’m going to want to read this again for the first time.” For those reading it for the first time, you are so lucky, knock me out now so I can join you!
I said it once to her and I will never stop; whatever crack she was on writing this? I need some. She ATE with this one, truly! If you thought TROTS was a good one, please be ready for this one!
May 27, 2026
-ARC review-
First, I just want to thank the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book before it released! I really enjoyed this book. This is probably the first book I’ve ever read that was completely from the main male characters point of view for the entire story, I just love how the author really makes you feel the pain that our MMC feels throughout his entire life. There are talks of mental health and endometriosis. Truly, I think the author does such a good job talking about these things and expressing how they might really feel to people. If you have not picked this one up yet please do it!! It just came out and I don’t think you’ll regret it!
First, I just want to thank the author for giving me the opportunity to read this book before it released! I really enjoyed this book. This is probably the first book I’ve ever read that was completely from the main male characters point of view for the entire story, I just love how the author really makes you feel the pain that our MMC feels throughout his entire life. There are talks of mental health and endometriosis. Truly, I think the author does such a good job talking about these things and expressing how they might really feel to people. If you have not picked this one up yet please do it!! It just came out and I don’t think you’ll regret it!
July 23, 2026
LD did it again! She captivated me from the first chapter and I couldn’t put the book down. I love her style of writing and I can see it playing as if I’m watching a tv show. I said if after her first book “The rhythm of their souls” and I’ll say it again, Netflix get her a deal!!!! It would be amazing on the big screen!
Seriously, add this to your TBR and block off the rest of the day because you are not going to put it down!!!
Seriously, add this to your TBR and block off the rest of the day because you are not going to put it down!!!
July 26, 2026
*edit to add a few notes*
4.5 stars rounded up!
This is a quick review since I'm trying to get caught up on so many but lets get to it.
From the first sentence this book took me on an emotional journey! the bond b/w ezra & his mom were goals. the friendship b/w ezra & the twins...again goals. i shed tears multiple times, i laughed, i was angry and i was blushing. i loved ezra & raina! i was rooting for them the whole time!it has the one trope i don’t like but i will say that it was quick and at the very end. That epilogue though...destroyed me.
highly recommend!!!
4.5 stars rounded up!
This is a quick review since I'm trying to get caught up on so many but lets get to it.
From the first sentence this book took me on an emotional journey! the bond b/w ezra & his mom were goals. the friendship b/w ezra & the twins...again goals. i shed tears multiple times, i laughed, i was angry and i was blushing. i loved ezra & raina! i was rooting for them the whole time!it has the one trope i don’t like but i will say that it was quick and at the very end. That epilogue though...destroyed me.
highly recommend!!!
May 21, 2026
ARC REVIEW 🤍
3.5 ⭐️
2 🌶️
I’m so thankful to have received this ARC! I was so highly anticipating Ezra’s story and loved that it was completely in his point of view! His story is truly tragic and heartbreaking but ends with a happy ending with love and found family! Truly a beautiful story! Ezra deserves all the love and passion he denied himself for so long, fully believing he didn’t deserve love or happiness. Tragedy strikes him at a young age and seems to follow him into his late twenties. When Raina comes into his life though, it seems to maybe come to an end but he still shoulders the weight of guilt and responsibility for something so beyond his control! He’s truly a tortured soul who needs love! The emotions are written so well and raw through his story!
That being said, I wish there was more of his and Rainas story, I loved the writing and loved learning Ezra’s past, the story between him and Raina seemed to lack depth that I found I was wishing for when the story finished! This is a good place to dip your toes into dark romance. Though there are darker elements in the story, dealing with self harm and loss, it’s a much lighter dark romance that’s a good place to start to see if it’s right for you!
Definitely check trigger warnings! This deals with very heavy topics of loss, grief and self harm! You are loved and you matter 🤍
3.5 ⭐️
2 🌶️
I’m so thankful to have received this ARC! I was so highly anticipating Ezra’s story and loved that it was completely in his point of view! His story is truly tragic and heartbreaking but ends with a happy ending with love and found family! Truly a beautiful story! Ezra deserves all the love and passion he denied himself for so long, fully believing he didn’t deserve love or happiness. Tragedy strikes him at a young age and seems to follow him into his late twenties. When Raina comes into his life though, it seems to maybe come to an end but he still shoulders the weight of guilt and responsibility for something so beyond his control! He’s truly a tortured soul who needs love! The emotions are written so well and raw through his story!
That being said, I wish there was more of his and Rainas story, I loved the writing and loved learning Ezra’s past, the story between him and Raina seemed to lack depth that I found I was wishing for when the story finished! This is a good place to dip your toes into dark romance. Though there are darker elements in the story, dealing with self harm and loss, it’s a much lighter dark romance that’s a good place to start to see if it’s right for you!
Definitely check trigger warnings! This deals with very heavy topics of loss, grief and self harm! You are loved and you matter 🤍
May 20, 2026
L.D. is truly an exceptional writer, and once again she has delivered a deeply emotional and unforgettable story. The way she captures emotion on every page is incredible, making it easy to become completely immersed in Ezra’s journey. I found myself tearing up multiple times throughout this book because of how raw and heartfelt his story was.
Ezra’s experiences, particularly the mental health struggles he faces throughout the book, were portrayed in such a powerful and moving way. Watching him navigate those challenges while slowly growing and finding his strength made his character even more impactful. His development by the end felt especially meaningful. I loved how L.D beautifully tied it into the symbolism of the monarch butterfly, representing renewal, transformation, hope, and personal growth.
This was another phenomenal read from L.D., and it’s clear once again how talented she is at creating emotional stories that stay with readers long after the final page.
Ezra’s experiences, particularly the mental health struggles he faces throughout the book, were portrayed in such a powerful and moving way. Watching him navigate those challenges while slowly growing and finding his strength made his character even more impactful. His development by the end felt especially meaningful. I loved how L.D beautifully tied it into the symbolism of the monarch butterfly, representing renewal, transformation, hope, and personal growth.
This was another phenomenal read from L.D., and it’s clear once again how talented she is at creating emotional stories that stay with readers long after the final page.
May 22, 2026
You know when a book just hits you right in the feels??
Well that’s what L.D. Does with her books.
This one is no exception for sure!
Ezra. Well he is this guy who had gone through it. Learning his story and going on his healing journey was something you will never forget. I’m in awe at how poetic and beautiful this story was. Our MMC and FMC fight to be their best selves through out the whole book.
Their back stories are devastating but their futures are so bright.
I don’t want to give away too much because I promise you just need to read it. Her writing will devastate you, hug you tight, make you cry, make you feel all the feels and just amaze you!
Thank you so much for allowing me the honor to early read this I just can’t wait for you to soar and be a NYT best seller I know it’s going to happen! Ya’ll she’s that good!
Well that’s what L.D. Does with her books.
This one is no exception for sure!
Ezra. Well he is this guy who had gone through it. Learning his story and going on his healing journey was something you will never forget. I’m in awe at how poetic and beautiful this story was. Our MMC and FMC fight to be their best selves through out the whole book.
Their back stories are devastating but their futures are so bright.
I don’t want to give away too much because I promise you just need to read it. Her writing will devastate you, hug you tight, make you cry, make you feel all the feels and just amaze you!
Thank you so much for allowing me the honor to early read this I just can’t wait for you to soar and be a NYT best seller I know it’s going to happen! Ya’ll she’s that good!
May 24, 2026
Wow, what a book! L.D. Pack is such a lyrical writer. She truly understands how to create a story with massive emotional impact.
Three Minutes follows Ezra, a man deeply haunted by loss and self-destruction, as he slowly learns to love and be loved in return.
I found this book deeply lyrical and emotionally symbolic. I loved how the elements were used as an extension of Ezra’s emotional state — fire representing his demons, self-loathing, and guilt, while Raina, as rain, became the counterbalance to his destruction and the relief from his suffering. And the fact that it was raining the first time he brought a girl home!? I can’t. It’s so beautiful.
Three Minutes felt raw, intense, and incredibly intimate in a way that will stay with me.
Three Minutes follows Ezra, a man deeply haunted by loss and self-destruction, as he slowly learns to love and be loved in return.
I found this book deeply lyrical and emotionally symbolic. I loved how the elements were used as an extension of Ezra’s emotional state — fire representing his demons, self-loathing, and guilt, while Raina, as rain, became the counterbalance to his destruction and the relief from his suffering. And the fact that it was raining the first time he brought a girl home!? I can’t. It’s so beautiful.
Three Minutes felt raw, intense, and incredibly intimate in a way that will stay with me.
May 24, 2026
This book hurt my feelings in the best way 🖤
Ezra’s story was emotional, messy, heartbreaking, and full of so much grief and guilt. You could really feel how badly he wanted love while also believing he didn’t deserve it, and honestly…I just wanted to hug him the entire book.
I loved the found family vibes and the emotional depth throughout the story, but I did wish we got a little more development between Ezra and Raina by the end.
Overall, this was a lighter dark romance that still packed an emotional punch. Definitely check trigger warnings for grief, loss, and self harm 🩶
Ezra’s story was emotional, messy, heartbreaking, and full of so much grief and guilt. You could really feel how badly he wanted love while also believing he didn’t deserve it, and honestly…I just wanted to hug him the entire book.
I loved the found family vibes and the emotional depth throughout the story, but I did wish we got a little more development between Ezra and Raina by the end.
Overall, this was a lighter dark romance that still packed an emotional punch. Definitely check trigger warnings for grief, loss, and self harm 🩶
May 29, 2026
Wow. Just wow. This one had me from the very beginning. Learning Ezra’s back story and how it shaped him into who he is. This isn’t an easy story to read. There is heavy tragedy, high emotions and deep yearning for something he no longer feels he deserves.
Ezra holds a lot of guilt that keeps him from feeling he deserves anything. When a beautiful blonde hair woman walks into his bar we finally see him start to change. It’s slow, it’s fought against and he may or may mess it up. But sometimes something life changing can make us see things differently.
If you are ready to go through so many emotions. Read 3 minutes. L.D bringing in a male centered pov into this one was so intriguing and I’m so glad I took the leap and read it for myself. I hope you all love Ezra as much as I do.
Ezra holds a lot of guilt that keeps him from feeling he deserves anything. When a beautiful blonde hair woman walks into his bar we finally see him start to change. It’s slow, it’s fought against and he may or may mess it up. But sometimes something life changing can make us see things differently.
If you are ready to go through so many emotions. Read 3 minutes. L.D bringing in a male centered pov into this one was so intriguing and I’m so glad I took the leap and read it for myself. I hope you all love Ezra as much as I do.
May 26, 2026
Wow! Just wow!
This book had me sucked in from the first chapter. It's like I felt every moment with Ezra. At times my heart broke for him too. But the love story between him & Raina and what they went through to get to their happily ever after was every emotion imaginable. It was like watching a movie while reading, I could picture everything. Very well written. Great job Lindsay!
This book had me sucked in from the first chapter. It's like I felt every moment with Ezra. At times my heart broke for him too. But the love story between him & Raina and what they went through to get to their happily ever after was every emotion imaginable. It was like watching a movie while reading, I could picture everything. Very well written. Great job Lindsay!
June 8, 2026
I absolutely loved this book!! If you want a rip your heart out and put it back together story then this book is for you. Ezra is the mmc and the whole book is from his perspective, which I loved, that poor man went through so much in this book. It just made me feel for him and love him even more.. I couldn’t give this a 6 star but for me it was a 6 star read.
June 4, 2026
I enjoyed this overall, but for me the chemistry between the main characters felt a little lacking. I never fully felt that connection between them, which made parts of the story less engaging for me.
One thing I did really enjoy was the back-and-forth timeline between the past and present. I always appreciate when a story gives that extra background because it helps build a better understanding of the main character and their experiences.
Something I especially appreciated was the inclusion of male mental health. It’s not a topic that’s explored often enough, and it was refreshing to see it represented. I do wish it had been explored more deeply though, particularly the healing process, such as therapy, coping mechanisms, hobbies, or what that journey looked like for the main character.
Overall, it was a good story and one I was glad to read in advanced!
One thing I did really enjoy was the back-and-forth timeline between the past and present. I always appreciate when a story gives that extra background because it helps build a better understanding of the main character and their experiences.
Something I especially appreciated was the inclusion of male mental health. It’s not a topic that’s explored often enough, and it was refreshing to see it represented. I do wish it had been explored more deeply though, particularly the healing process, such as therapy, coping mechanisms, hobbies, or what that journey looked like for the main character.
Overall, it was a good story and one I was glad to read in advanced!
June 4, 2026
Review of Advanced Readers Copy received from Author LD Pack:
How do you even put into words how tragically beautiful and deeply rooted in healing Three Minutes was? If LD Pack writes it, you already know you’re going to close the book and sit there staring at a wall wondering how you somehow ended up shattered and healed all at once.
Reading a story solely from the male POV was never something I thought I would truly appreciate, but Three Minutes completely changed that for me. There was something so raw and powerful about stepping into Ezra’s mind and witnessing the depth of a man’s pain, his loneliness, and the silent battle he fought within himself. We so often read stories about women healing, women surviving, women learning they are worthy of love but reading about a man navigating grief, trauma, and the ache of believing he was never enough? That hit me in a way I wasn’t prepared for.
Ezra is a man born into a world that convinced him he was unwanted and broken. A man who spent so much of his life carrying pain that he fully believed he was undeserving of love, happiness, and peace. And then there’s Raina.
Raina wasn’t just a love interest she was warmth, patience, and unconditional love. She saw Ezra in ways he could never see himself. She became a safe place for a man who had spent his entire life believing safety wasn’t meant for him. Watching someone slowly love another person back to life? Whew. That kind of healing wrecked me.
Three Minutes wasn’t just a romance. It was grief, healing, hope, and a reminder that even the people who feel the most broken are still worthy of being loved.
How do you even put into words how tragically beautiful and deeply rooted in healing Three Minutes was? If LD Pack writes it, you already know you’re going to close the book and sit there staring at a wall wondering how you somehow ended up shattered and healed all at once.
Reading a story solely from the male POV was never something I thought I would truly appreciate, but Three Minutes completely changed that for me. There was something so raw and powerful about stepping into Ezra’s mind and witnessing the depth of a man’s pain, his loneliness, and the silent battle he fought within himself. We so often read stories about women healing, women surviving, women learning they are worthy of love but reading about a man navigating grief, trauma, and the ache of believing he was never enough? That hit me in a way I wasn’t prepared for.
Ezra is a man born into a world that convinced him he was unwanted and broken. A man who spent so much of his life carrying pain that he fully believed he was undeserving of love, happiness, and peace. And then there’s Raina.
Raina wasn’t just a love interest she was warmth, patience, and unconditional love. She saw Ezra in ways he could never see himself. She became a safe place for a man who had spent his entire life believing safety wasn’t meant for him. Watching someone slowly love another person back to life? Whew. That kind of healing wrecked me.
Three Minutes wasn’t just a romance. It was grief, healing, hope, and a reminder that even the people who feel the most broken are still worthy of being loved.
May 30, 2026
Took some time to really think about this book.
I really enjoyed the authors writing style and the uniqueness of this being a MMC led book.
Ezra's story was deeply sad, the author definately gave his mental health the main attention.
Ezra's love interest confused me .. by 50% I still wasn't sure who the fmc/main love interest was supposed to be because both were heavily featured.
I felt this book centered around Ezra's mental health rather than a plot driven storyline .. I personally felt the 'plot' hit at 87% .. which for my preferences was very late into the story and meant the last 13% felt rushed.
I can't ignore Mango (the cat) either .. what's the deal with this cat?! For someone who didn't want the cat in the first place - Ezra was obsessed with this cat 🙈
I appreciated the epilogue but also felt it was a bit misplaced, as there was only 3 people who knew what the letter said which left me sad as Ezra would never know what was said.
I think I read too many books within the 'Dark Romance' genre 🙈 but I didn't feel this to be dark or romantic .. Ezra and Raina could have had more chemistry and relationship development.
I would've liked if we had gotten some insight into Ezra's healing journey and the help he recieved to cope/manage his mental health and his self harm.
**SPOILER **
👇🏼
👇🏼
👇🏼
👇🏼
👇🏼
*The scene where Ezra sets himself on fire had me feeling frustrated, as his 2 best friends and Raina discovered his injuries yet, no regard was given for his state of mind, Raina, being a veterinary nurse grabbed some rags from the bar 'cleaned him up' and dressed the burns 😳 he slept on a sofa in the bar, woke to then stress about getting to the cat 🐈 the man loved this cat more than anything else .. he leaves Raina after learning she's in a medically induced coma because she has a brain bleed, to go tend to the cat 🙈 he REALLY loved that cat 🐈
I really enjoyed the authors writing style and the uniqueness of this being a MMC led book.
Ezra's story was deeply sad, the author definately gave his mental health the main attention.
Ezra's love interest confused me .. by 50% I still wasn't sure who the fmc/main love interest was supposed to be because both were heavily featured.
I felt this book centered around Ezra's mental health rather than a plot driven storyline .. I personally felt the 'plot' hit at 87% .. which for my preferences was very late into the story and meant the last 13% felt rushed.
I can't ignore Mango (the cat) either .. what's the deal with this cat?! For someone who didn't want the cat in the first place - Ezra was obsessed with this cat 🙈
I appreciated the epilogue but also felt it was a bit misplaced, as there was only 3 people who knew what the letter said which left me sad as Ezra would never know what was said.
I think I read too many books within the 'Dark Romance' genre 🙈 but I didn't feel this to be dark or romantic .. Ezra and Raina could have had more chemistry and relationship development.
I would've liked if we had gotten some insight into Ezra's healing journey and the help he recieved to cope/manage his mental health and his self harm.
**SPOILER **
👇🏼
👇🏼
👇🏼
👇🏼
👇🏼
*The scene where Ezra sets himself on fire had me feeling frustrated, as his 2 best friends and Raina discovered his injuries yet, no regard was given for his state of mind, Raina, being a veterinary nurse grabbed some rags from the bar 'cleaned him up' and dressed the burns 😳 he slept on a sofa in the bar, woke to then stress about getting to the cat 🐈 the man loved this cat more than anything else .. he leaves Raina after learning she's in a medically induced coma because she has a brain bleed, to go tend to the cat 🙈 he REALLY loved that cat 🐈
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 15, 2026
ARC Review
Thank you to the Author for providing a copy and the ability to review.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Triggers: Check the warnings and take heart to the Authors warnings. This book is heavy on trauma in relation to domestic violence, self-harm and PTSD
This was honestly a refreshing POV as it was from the MMC and heavy on his mental health and the lack of conversation and support around it. The Author did a solid job highlighting Ezra’s deeps wounds from childhood to adulthood and how it impacted his every day life. From relationships, self image and worth to work and daily activities. I truly enjoyed his story.
All of that being said this wasn’t as heavy on the dark for me personally. While Ezra’s story was dark in itself, the story line and relationships were not. They felt more relatable and based in how we move through the world with trauma that hasn’t healed. It stayed otherwise light hearted and more simple for me as a reader. Nothing complicated and felt a little repetitive in descriptions and story line/ interactions with characters.
I REALLY started to get into the story as the intensity kicked up towards the last couple of chapters and loved that. However, the full swing of that happy ending romance reeled me back a bit and left me feeling kinda let down from the darkness that was dancing and teasing through the story line. So if you love romance as a whole that will probably settle well for you and would be an easier jump into the realm of darkness scale.
All in all I enjoyed the story and it was a quick little read that left me smiling, grateful to address men’s trauma and mental health and highlight that healing is possible.
You are not alone. Your mental health matters and you don’t have to stay in the darkness. 🖤
Thank you to the Author for providing a copy and the ability to review.
Stars: ⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️
Triggers: Check the warnings and take heart to the Authors warnings. This book is heavy on trauma in relation to domestic violence, self-harm and PTSD
This was honestly a refreshing POV as it was from the MMC and heavy on his mental health and the lack of conversation and support around it. The Author did a solid job highlighting Ezra’s deeps wounds from childhood to adulthood and how it impacted his every day life. From relationships, self image and worth to work and daily activities. I truly enjoyed his story.
All of that being said this wasn’t as heavy on the dark for me personally. While Ezra’s story was dark in itself, the story line and relationships were not. They felt more relatable and based in how we move through the world with trauma that hasn’t healed. It stayed otherwise light hearted and more simple for me as a reader. Nothing complicated and felt a little repetitive in descriptions and story line/ interactions with characters.
I REALLY started to get into the story as the intensity kicked up towards the last couple of chapters and loved that. However, the full swing of that happy ending romance reeled me back a bit and left me feeling kinda let down from the darkness that was dancing and teasing through the story line. So if you love romance as a whole that will probably settle well for you and would be an easier jump into the realm of darkness scale.
All in all I enjoyed the story and it was a quick little read that left me smiling, grateful to address men’s trauma and mental health and highlight that healing is possible.
You are not alone. Your mental health matters and you don’t have to stay in the darkness. 🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
Ezra has been through more than more in his life; watching his dad try to kill his mom and stabbing him to stop him; crippling anxiety and PTSD from that experience; losing his mom and beloved uncle in a house fire that he couldn’t prove but knew was started by his horrible father. Ezra knows that everyone he loves will suffer so he keeps everyone, including his two best friends, at arms length so they don’t get trapped in his wake. When a pretty girl who shares his birthday comes into the bar Ezra owns with her cocky friends with benefits, Ezra is immediately drawn to her. He begins to do some “light stalking” of this girl, Raina, and she turns his world upside down. After 11 years of keeping everyone from getting close, he finds her creeping into every part of him. He knows he should keep her away, not for him, but for her own good. Everything he touches or loves turns toxic, but he just can’t keep away from this girl. When he receives some unsettling mail and decided to engage in the newest form of self harm, the people closest to him prove that they are there for the long haul. But when his past threatens to come back to haunt him, will he be able to prove to the people closest to him that he will be there for them?
TROPES:
Stalking
Broken MMC
Found Family
TRIGGER WARNINGS:
Mental Health Issues
Loss of a Parent
Self Harm
Grief
Thank you LD Pack for writing about a character who is going through a mental health crisis. May is mental health awareness month, and this book dropping this month really feels like it was done on purpose.
Thank you to LD Pack for letting me read an ARC of this book! All opinions are my own and I was not compensated to give them!
TROPES:
Stalking
Broken MMC
Found Family
TRIGGER WARNINGS:
Mental Health Issues
Loss of a Parent
Self Harm
Grief
Thank you LD Pack for writing about a character who is going through a mental health crisis. May is mental health awareness month, and this book dropping this month really feels like it was done on purpose.
Thank you to LD Pack for letting me read an ARC of this book! All opinions are my own and I was not compensated to give them!
Review of advance copy received from Author
THREE MINUTES
So proud of Lindsay for writing and publishing her second book! Such an accomplishment!
“These scars are a reminder of all I’ve lost and everything I will never deserve.”
“This is my punishment: living, but dead inside.”
🔥Three Minutes is not just a romance story, it deals with very important topics and it was refreshing to have it solely play out from the MMCs POV. This story is about how childhood trauma can shape you as an adult and how it affects your future relationships with friends, love interests and more importantly, yourself.
🦋Ezra is a lost and broken soul. He keeps others at a distance, not wanting to drag them down with him, and accepts he will just suffer forever alone and believes that’s what he deserves. The way his pain and inner turmoil was written was palpable, you can’t help but feel his emotions and it definitely pulls at your heartstrings.
Then Raina walks in and it’s like a new path lights up for him. But going down that path means opening up and showing the worst parts of him he thinks are unlovable.
“She could be the very thing that holds the power to extinguish the fiery inferno smoldering deep inside me, and that thought terrifies the f*ck out of me.”
🔥This is a journey of trauma, grief and ultimately healing and finding someone who sees the real you beneath all your scars. It’s a beautiful and touching story told from the male’s perspective with dark and suspenseful aspects.
Congrats to Lindsay for writing another emotionally charged beautiful story!🖤
So proud of Lindsay for writing and publishing her second book! Such an accomplishment!
“These scars are a reminder of all I’ve lost and everything I will never deserve.”
“This is my punishment: living, but dead inside.”
🔥Three Minutes is not just a romance story, it deals with very important topics and it was refreshing to have it solely play out from the MMCs POV. This story is about how childhood trauma can shape you as an adult and how it affects your future relationships with friends, love interests and more importantly, yourself.
🦋Ezra is a lost and broken soul. He keeps others at a distance, not wanting to drag them down with him, and accepts he will just suffer forever alone and believes that’s what he deserves. The way his pain and inner turmoil was written was palpable, you can’t help but feel his emotions and it definitely pulls at your heartstrings.
Then Raina walks in and it’s like a new path lights up for him. But going down that path means opening up and showing the worst parts of him he thinks are unlovable.
“She could be the very thing that holds the power to extinguish the fiery inferno smoldering deep inside me, and that thought terrifies the f*ck out of me.”
🔥This is a journey of trauma, grief and ultimately healing and finding someone who sees the real you beneath all your scars. It’s a beautiful and touching story told from the male’s perspective with dark and suspenseful aspects.
Congrats to Lindsay for writing another emotionally charged beautiful story!🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
📖 I will *not* be spoiling anything! I am SO grateful and fortunate to have been able to receive an early copy of THREE MINUTES.
🖤 This story is absolutely beautiful but in both a haunting and loving way. Ezra Stone…I love him so much. My god, this boy endured so much as a teenager. I wanted to jump into the book itself and just hug him while he cried.
This book definitely has some heavier themes, but they are so very well written, and, with care. I really appreciated how the inner turmoil and pain was portrayed bc I *felt* it deeply. When an author can do that, I have to celebrate them! And if a book makes me cry, it’s an automatic 5 stars. This is DEF a 5🌟 read for me, and I quickly knew it would be.
🧡 Beck and Blake? I adore them. Blake is that fun-loving best friend that adds a moment of sunshine in between the darkness that is Ezra’s life. And Beck is truly a sweetheart who I want to call a friend in real life. Her and Ezra have suchhh a special relationship. At times, it is a little painful.
🖤 But Raina Adele Hope? Her snarky and flirty attitude first witnessed by Ezra is something I would personally be drawn to like a moth to a damn flame (like our boy🥰). But as you get to know her, there’s so much more depth, proving that she is exactly what he needs.
Side note: Ezra doing extra research for her??? Omggg.🥹
You have GOT to read this amazing story of love, resilience, grief, and healing. Incredible story, L.D. Pack. I will be adding this book to my shelf when it comes out.🧡🔥🖤
🖤 This story is absolutely beautiful but in both a haunting and loving way. Ezra Stone…I love him so much. My god, this boy endured so much as a teenager. I wanted to jump into the book itself and just hug him while he cried.
This book definitely has some heavier themes, but they are so very well written, and, with care. I really appreciated how the inner turmoil and pain was portrayed bc I *felt* it deeply. When an author can do that, I have to celebrate them! And if a book makes me cry, it’s an automatic 5 stars. This is DEF a 5🌟 read for me, and I quickly knew it would be.
🧡 Beck and Blake? I adore them. Blake is that fun-loving best friend that adds a moment of sunshine in between the darkness that is Ezra’s life. And Beck is truly a sweetheart who I want to call a friend in real life. Her and Ezra have suchhh a special relationship. At times, it is a little painful.
🖤 But Raina Adele Hope? Her snarky and flirty attitude first witnessed by Ezra is something I would personally be drawn to like a moth to a damn flame (like our boy🥰). But as you get to know her, there’s so much more depth, proving that she is exactly what he needs.
Side note: Ezra doing extra research for her??? Omggg.🥹
You have GOT to read this amazing story of love, resilience, grief, and healing. Incredible story, L.D. Pack. I will be adding this book to my shelf when it comes out.🧡🔥🖤
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was absolutely incredible.
WOW! Just wow!
This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year and it did not disappoint.
I was hooked from the FIRST PAGE! I couldn’t put this book down.
This was absolutely beautiful and I loved that this was a male POV. (One of my fav things about this story) I love Ezra. He is EVERYTHING. I could picture every detail of this story perfectly in my head. This is 100% a book that will stick with you long after it’s over. The emotions & the suspense that had me on the edge of my seat at times was fantastic!
The emotional side of this showing PTSD, trauma & grief was done so well. I felt this in my soul. Coming from someone who has experienced loss, pain, and the rage that comes with that. This really resonated with me. 💔
If you are looking for a new perfect book boyfriend who deserves everything good in this life please read this! This was a slow burn love story with YEARNING, and just beautiful chemistry and I ate it UP! And let’s not forget the HEALING in this story. Oh I just adored it! Nothing I say will ever do this book justice! Well done Lindsay! So proud of you! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
WOW! Just wow!
This was one of my most anticipated reads of the year and it did not disappoint.
I was hooked from the FIRST PAGE! I couldn’t put this book down.
This was absolutely beautiful and I loved that this was a male POV. (One of my fav things about this story) I love Ezra. He is EVERYTHING. I could picture every detail of this story perfectly in my head. This is 100% a book that will stick with you long after it’s over. The emotions & the suspense that had me on the edge of my seat at times was fantastic!
The emotional side of this showing PTSD, trauma & grief was done so well. I felt this in my soul. Coming from someone who has experienced loss, pain, and the rage that comes with that. This really resonated with me. 💔
If you are looking for a new perfect book boyfriend who deserves everything good in this life please read this! This was a slow burn love story with YEARNING, and just beautiful chemistry and I ate it UP! And let’s not forget the HEALING in this story. Oh I just adored it! Nothing I say will ever do this book justice! Well done Lindsay! So proud of you! ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW
5 ⭐️’s 🌶️ 🌶️.5
L.D. Pack absolutely wrecked me with Three Minutes. Ezra’s story was one that sat heavy on my heart from the very beginning. After the tragedy on his 16th birthday that took his family, he carried so much guilt and blame for years, and you could feel every ounce of that pain through the pages. It was like he truly believed he didn’t deserve love or happiness.
Then Raina came into his life, and everything slowly started to change. Watching Ezra become so protective over her and the people he loves was one of my favorite parts of this book. Beneath all that hurt was someone who loved deeply and fiercely.
And then the truth about his father… that absolutely shattered me for him. The way everything unfolded broke him in ways I wasn’t expecting, and my heart hurt right alongside his.
This book was heavy at times and definitely emotional, but it was also healing. It was about grief, guilt, love, and learning how to let someone help carry your pain. I felt so much for Ezra, and I’m so glad Raina was there to help him pick up the pieces.
5 ⭐️’s 🌶️ 🌶️.5
L.D. Pack absolutely wrecked me with Three Minutes. Ezra’s story was one that sat heavy on my heart from the very beginning. After the tragedy on his 16th birthday that took his family, he carried so much guilt and blame for years, and you could feel every ounce of that pain through the pages. It was like he truly believed he didn’t deserve love or happiness.
Then Raina came into his life, and everything slowly started to change. Watching Ezra become so protective over her and the people he loves was one of my favorite parts of this book. Beneath all that hurt was someone who loved deeply and fiercely.
And then the truth about his father… that absolutely shattered me for him. The way everything unfolded broke him in ways I wasn’t expecting, and my heart hurt right alongside his.
This book was heavy at times and definitely emotional, but it was also healing. It was about grief, guilt, love, and learning how to let someone help carry your pain. I felt so much for Ezra, and I’m so glad Raina was there to help him pick up the pieces.
Read
May 24, 2026Three Minutes is a unique dark romance written solely from the perspective of the tortured MMC, Ezra. If you’re a sucker for a mother-son bond, strong childhood friendships, grumpy biker/bartender vibes, and a small town surprise romance, this one is for you.
Please make sure to check trigger warnings as this read leans heavily on traumatic experiences, propelling the mental health journey.
Grief has seeped into every cell of Ezra’s being. He quietly copes by using unhealthy methods. In walks Raina, who shakes loose Ezra’s emotions with a gentle yet feisty presence. My favorite characters, however, are Ezra’s best friends, who have been with Ezra through everything and surround him with constant love and support. Blake is the perfect comedic relief, and Beck is a steady support, who needs a happy ending. (L.D., will we get a story for Beck?)
Grab your furbaby, buckle up, and enjoy the ride! Thank you for the ARC L.D. Pack!
Please make sure to check trigger warnings as this read leans heavily on traumatic experiences, propelling the mental health journey.
Grief has seeped into every cell of Ezra’s being. He quietly copes by using unhealthy methods. In walks Raina, who shakes loose Ezra’s emotions with a gentle yet feisty presence. My favorite characters, however, are Ezra’s best friends, who have been with Ezra through everything and surround him with constant love and support. Blake is the perfect comedic relief, and Beck is a steady support, who needs a happy ending. (L.D., will we get a story for Beck?)
Grab your furbaby, buckle up, and enjoy the ride! Thank you for the ARC L.D. Pack!
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