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Never again. That’s the promise she made to herself after two men broke her heart… but is it a promise she should keep?

Phylomenia only has two rules. Never profit from someone else’s suffering, and don’t make the same mistake twice. Rekindling the flames of a thirty-year-old love affair would mean repeating the biggest mistake of her life—falling in love with Scott and Garrett. So why is she tempted to fall again?

Scott made a mistake that cost him everyone he loved. The time has come to make things right.

Duty. Loyalty. Honor. Scott Archer built his life around those principles. But duty is a cold companion, and honor can’t heal the scars of the past. When fate brings the three of them together again, Scott must reforge the links between them or risk losing his loves forever.

Garrett never expected to see them again. The one that got away… and the one that never was.

Decades ago their love was torn apart by lies, death, and secrets. Now Garrett has both of them back in his sights, and he’s determined to rebuild what they once had… only better. Phylomenia and Scott aren’t same people they were back then, and neither is he. He knows what he wants, and he’s going to take it any way he can.

Old flames. New dangers. And one last chance to make a play for love… winner takes all.

218 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 13, 2021

38 people are currently reading
63 people want to read

About the author

Susan Hayes

97 books466 followers
Susan lives out on the Canadian west coast surrounded by open water, dear family and good friends. She’s jumped out of perfectly good airplanes on purpose and accidentally swum with sharks on the Great Barrier Reef. If the world ends, she plans to survive as the spunky, comedic sidekick to the heroes of the new world, because she’s too damned short and out of shape to make it on her own for long.

Writing is her joy, her escape from reality and the only way she knows of to quiet the nagging harridan of a muse the universe assigned to her.

To contact her about her books or to arrange end of the world team-ups, you can email her at susanhayesromance@gmail.com

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5 stars
188 (63%)
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73 (24%)
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28 (9%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews
Profile Image for Niam Fingleton.
16 reviews7 followers
August 2, 2023
Loved this book!! I’m gutted that the Drift series has finished, including the Nova force series, which is entwined. But at least I have the Haven Colony which is also a spin off.
Brilliant writing, characters and storyline, which includes action, love and an excellent story arc.
This is the 3rd time reading and it just gets better!
I listened to this series this time round and it was brilliantly narrated, that I will probably listen again the next time!
234 reviews5 followers
July 16, 2021
I've been impatiently waiting for Phylomenia's story and author Susan Hayes did not disappoint!

This 11th book was a homecoming in many ways. It touched my heart as much as it fed my adrenaline. It was snarky, sweet, hot, mysterious, and explosive by turns. It also proves life and romance don't end at a particular age. These characters are in their 50's - as am I. That made it incredibly special for me. But, don't worry, you'll enjoy it no matter your age.

We've been watching as bad ass freighter Captain Phylomenia Harrington and Colonel Scott Archer of the IAF have danced around each other for several books now. We were also introduced to a mystery man by the name of Garrett Michaels. Now we FINALLY get to find out about the bad blood between Scott and Garrett.

30 years after a big blow up and crash landing between Phyl, Scott, and Garrett they come back together. They're older, wiser, and more determined to get it right. Unfortunately, they all have secrets that may prove to be too difficult to overcome. It doesn't help that the enemy, The Grays, have their own agenda and are determined to destroy those who've plotted against them.

I really enjoyed getting to know the woman behind the freighter Captain and the man behind the Colonel of the IAF. There were some surprising elements to each that made my Kindle steam (wink, wink). Garrett, another enigma, was full of surprises too.

Also, in this last book of the original Drift series (don't worry we'll see more of the same beloved characters in a new one she has planned) we get to briefly revisit most of our good friends as they come together in various ways to either romantically plot or protect each other from the enemy.

Read it, you'll definitely love it!
Profile Image for ObsessiveReader.
1,317 reviews
July 14, 2021
Secrets separated them decades ago, but now Phylomena, Archer and Garrett have a chance to find love and happiness agin with each other. They just need to get rid of all the secrets. Unfortunately the Grey men are on the loose still and everyone is in danger.

Good story and relationship between the three. Even though they are an older throuple, it doesn’t seem like it when you are reading their story. Looks like there are more stories ahead even if Astek station won’t be a home much longer.
510 reviews3 followers
July 14, 2021
Great series

Even if it did take 30 years it was nice to see Phil, Scott and Garret back together. The nano swarm absorbing the fleet ship General Halverson was on was nice retribution. I feel sorry for the crew but if they were dumb enough to follow his orders well.....
Phil's ship went out in a blaze of glory which was probably for the best. The timing ended up being the best for both Scott and Garret to resign their commissions.
Profile Image for Daria.
1,999 reviews42 followers
July 9, 2021
Loves Susan Hayes long time now. *grins* she is one of my go-to authors. When I can't find anything to pull me in I can always count on grabbing one of her books.

Now I'm not much into second chances and this ran along that theme, but I loves me some Drift and so popped it up on the kindle and emersed myself in Susan's latest story.

We all have made mistakes and that is okay, it's what we do after that is important. These three seemed just a wee bit broken not unfixable but you know just a couple of bumps. Fate works its magic and they are in each other's path again. Ohh what to do, what to do? *smiles*

On the Drift there is always a bit of bad lurking, between the snarkiness between our sexy trio, there's a plot afoot. Phyl gets hers!! boom baby and it's all kinda yummy., delish scenes, and hey what's not to love about a girl and two alphas? So grab it and see what happens when they get a second chance. *winks* enjoy.
Profile Image for Kim.
1,134 reviews9 followers
July 13, 2021
If you like your silver foxes and a kicking-arse independent woman like I do, then you’re going to love Winner Takes All. Not only is Phylomenia a dangerous space Captain she lands in hot with not one but two silver foxes from her past. Both of which I would enjoy wrapping up and keeping. Sparks definitely were flying right away in the book. I really enjoyed the story and details of Phylomenia, Scott, & Garrett. While the there was no time wasted getting to the steamy sessions, there was still plenty of action, and other characters to completely satisfy.

This is part of the Drift series and does have a timeline that is partially in conjunction with the last series. However, you don’t have to have started at the beginning or even with the last to enjoy. If you are familiar with the series, then you will quite enjoy all of the characters that flow through even if just a brief cameo.
Profile Image for Heather.
697 reviews
July 13, 2021
FRAX! I am blown away. Yup.. I loved this book and was absolutely HOOKED. This is the last book in the "original" Drift series and it did not disappoint! This is now my favorite of the entire series. The mother figure to the entire crew, Phylomenia, finally gets her HEA. Ok, ok... throw the hot as frax Colonel Scott Archer and the third from their past... Garrett. These three need to overcome secrets and lies from their past in order to pave the way for their future. That is, if the men can get out of their own way. There was not a slow part to this book and I did not want to put it down. The Gray men are out to cause all kinds of chaos and more. What is the end game here? Is anyone safe? I want to say can Phyl and her men safe each other, but hey this is an HEA so you know the answer to that.
Profile Image for Judi.
1,919 reviews15 followers
July 7, 2021
A sci-fi second chance romance to die for…

I love revisiting the Drift, and Philomena and Archer have been here pretty much since he beginning. They have always acted like there was more to their animosity toward each other and we finally get the back story. And the fact they once had a third Garrett Michaels. When Garrett comes to the Drift and finds both of his previous lovers dancing around each other he cranks the angst way up. Though this storyline mostly revolves around the romance of our intrepid trio there is still a baddie to be dealt with and The Greys do not go quietly. I love the Drift! I want to live there and be part of the cyborg family. This whole “world” draws me in for a delightful reading experience. Love, love this book!
778 reviews11 followers
July 5, 2021
Fans of the Drift series…this one was outstanding! We finally get a book on Phylomenia! She is by far my favorite character in this series and Hayes does not disappoint! Yes, it takes TWO alpha men to take on Phyl! This threesome is so cleverly written…even if male on male action is not your thing, it is handled beautifully, illustrating that true love can be expressed between the three of them. The Grays are plotting evil and it unfolds within a solid plot. Of course the romance scenes are smoking off the page. Download and enjoy an afternoon in the Drift!❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️❤️
Profile Image for Jannie Cv.
1,082 reviews29 followers
July 13, 2021
Second-chance romance - it’s hot!
The path is convoluted. Three lives gone separate directions, leaving deep hurts and love lost. It’s so much to overcome, to regain trust.
Phyl has carved out a home and family for herself, living (sometimes) on the wild side. There is little that could be more damaging to relationships than secrets held close. Unless that barrier is removed, there is not much hope for Phyl’s future with Scott and Garrett. Their’s is a thrilling story; never a dull moment. The future of Astek Station is held in the balance.
Excellent reading!
Profile Image for Stacy .
340 reviews2 followers
July 14, 2021
Great!

This was a fantastic new book in The Drift series. This is a reverse ménage story that is bringing back together three people who loved each other but who kept secrets that caused them to stay apart. The story involves finding out whether they can overcome their previous issues and finally get together forever all while dealing with outside issues. All the feels and thrills!
Profile Image for Lisa Bing.
6,237 reviews70 followers
July 15, 2021
I have been dying for a story for Phyl and finally it's here! This is a second chance romance and it's full of secrets, and lies, and those have to be dealt with. Not only that, the Grey Men are still on the loose, so while this is mostly a romance, there is action and danger to keep things hopping :) There's a lot to enjoy in this series finale, including some good snark and fab steamy romance - and a lot to look forward to in a future spin off series. Good fun!
Profile Image for Christina Standridge.
1,039 reviews3 followers
July 16, 2021
I am loving the series. I love going back to the Drift. The Greys are up to no good again. Phyl has a blast from the past. Thirty years ago she was in a relationship with Scott and Garret. Scott has been trying to rekindle the past with her and then Garret shows up. Will they rekindle their past or is the past to big to overcome and they all lose. I read an arc of this book and this is my review.
153 reviews
July 28, 2021
I love the Drift. This story was near and dear to me because the main characters were mature. You can have love in your fifties, even second chance love. It's good to learn why Philomena and Archer are so antagonistic towards each other, and why Philomena is so crusty in general.
The Greys rear their ugly heads again, but this is mostly a story of redemption.

I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
1,145 reviews2 followers
July 22, 2021
Awesome Ending!!!

I have waited for Scott and Phyl to find love. No clue it would them with another, together. Their pasts was sad and lonely. But they all three forged lives and careers. Wonder what happened to Bobbi. You know Vida is out there waiting. Plus I hope we get a peek at the new space station!!
1,137 reviews3 followers
November 7, 2021
Winner Takes All by Susan Hayes

This entire series has been a wonderful reading experience, she creates fantastic storyline and heartwarming characters that draw you into the reading experience with them. I'm happily recommending that you check out the series for yourself!
🔰😍
Profile Image for Kathryn.
1,010 reviews14 followers
August 15, 2025
Amazing

I really loved this story. I could have used medi-bots 30 years ago. I like that this menage was between three older people by human standards. The story was funny, dramatic, suspenseful, and exciting. It was a great last book in a series. Now I have to read Nova Force and the Haven Colony series.
711 reviews10 followers
July 14, 2021
I really enjoyed reading this book. Though in the beginning I was mad at the heroes, all those secrets..... I was glad to watch how they improved and found their way. I also enjoyed what happened to the Gray men....
200 reviews
July 15, 2021
The Drift! One more time…

Love these stories! The Drift is a ragtag group of self-chosen family and friends, even cyborgs. Just enjoy it so much. So much going on… Start over and read them all. 😍
Profile Image for Peggy Darrow.
526 reviews6 followers
July 16, 2021
i adored this book, Phyl Finally got her Happily ever after, and holy cow can she kick some booty! I am so glad i got to go thru this whole series with Susan Hayes from Book 1 all the way to here! I will miss the Drift, but i will always love the family!
53 reviews1 follower
July 17, 2021
Winner Takes All is amazing!

Phyl has always been one of my favorites. I am addicted to this whole series and the 2 spin-offs. I can't wait for the future. And of course, the very end of the Gray Lords. But not yet!! I don't want to say goodbye to everyone.
Profile Image for Karen.
337 reviews1 follower
July 22, 2021
This was a fascinating read. I loved that the characters were mature and had experiences.

The characters were relatable. There was great dialogue, character interaction & relationship development.
Drama, action, hot sexy scenes. Very enjoyable.
Profile Image for Sandra.
101 reviews3 followers
November 21, 2021
Fun,sexy and action

I have read over a dozen of her world nowadays and love that I can be a part of her fun, sexy and action packed world. I am packing and keeping a go bag ready just in case I get an invitation.
Profile Image for Amanda Bhear.
666 reviews4 followers
October 22, 2022
I am a little pressed for time. I really loved it. I know I will be looking for all the books that go with the Drift series so I can find out what happens with everyone else & the next space station. I can't wait to see what the next adventure will be!
249 reviews2 followers
November 27, 2022
Good, could be better

Good story, characters, and world building. Could have been more descriptive about the heroes relationship when it evolved. A little predictable, but still readable. Some typos, medium spice, poly space romance, some M/M.
140 reviews
September 19, 2023
I am so glad that we got Phyl, Scott, and Garrett's story. I love this Thrupple for so many reasons. It was great that we were able to see interactions between the guys as well as with Phyl.
Sad to see the end of the Drift Series, but happy to end with the old-love-anew. :)
306 reviews1 follower
June 20, 2025
Love Phyl, Scott, and Garrett’s story!

Love the story of love renewed after 30 years! It's wonderful to see the "old-timers" rediscovering their love. And freeing themselves from old ties. Inspiring! ... and spicy too.
4,497 reviews24 followers
July 13, 2021
The story in this book, is entertaining and it's a great second chance at romance. The story is filled with action and intrigue and the characters have a great interaction and chemistry between them. I can't wait for the next book from this author. I received this book as a FREE ARC copy to read and I voluntarily leave this review.
1,845 reviews6 followers
July 15, 2021
Oh my gosh, I could not put it down. This was intense, romantic and simply marvelous. I loved everything about it. I voluntarily read and reviewed this book.
3,323 reviews30 followers
July 25, 2021
Thirty years later

I was hoping for this story because Phylomena is a great name and character who always helps everyone else. Phyl is quirky and a force to be reckoned with.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 34 reviews

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