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Wide receiver Layton Ranger is an NFL star.
Rule number one in my job as the team’s physical therapist is not to fraternize with the players.
I broke that rule, and, boy, was it worth it. But if the team finds out, heads will roll—namely mine.
No way will a first-round draft pick and Rookie of the Year be cut for jumping between the sheets with someone replaceable like me.
It was just sex and just a guy, so I can move on. Right?
Wrong.
Layton is everything I never thought could exist in one man. He’s the whole package… everything I’ve ever wanted.
Until the night he cut me out.
He cut everyone out.
I shouldn’t care. I should move on. And I tried … until that phone call.
Now I’m ready to break all the rules.

Unknown Binding

First published June 22, 2023

138 people are currently reading
250 people want to read

About the author

Hadley Finn

9 books109 followers
Hadley believes strongly in the healing power of salsa, is fully and unapologetically addicted to coffee, and feels it’s her duty to keep the book world financially viable by bingeing great stories that are wonderfully told. She also loves adverbs.

Hadley loves to cook, dance, and have conversations with the figments of her imagination.

For newsletter & more, visit: hadleyfinn.com

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5 stars
147 (63%)
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews
Profile Image for Julie Booklover.
2,097 reviews105 followers
June 22, 2023
4.5 stars

Layton Ranger has been a mystery to us until now. He has appeared in previous books, and we know his profession, but until now, he has been a secondary character. As his and Livy’s stories unfold, have a tissue handy. A terrifying event, and behind the scenes scheming, create dings in their relationship. They have a lot to overcome; both characters need to grow together and separately.
While this book can be a stand alone, I recommend the series for the best enjoyment.

Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
Profile Image for niki_reads_romance.
883 reviews9 followers
July 24, 2023
I don’t have the words but can’t say enough

This book WRECKED me. It was so beautiful and painful and intense and… whoa. The storytelling had me enthralled and the characters had me falling in love.
I think this one will stay with me for awhile.
Profile Image for Melanie Maloney.
414 reviews8 followers
June 19, 2023
Oh lordy what do I say about Layton and Livy’s book other than Hadley what did you just do to me! I was in angst, I smiled, I may have shed a tear. These two earned their HEA.
After reading a story like this I am in awe how an author bring these characters to life so much that they feel a part of your reality. Kudos!!!! I need more!
Profile Image for Amy C H.
3 reviews
June 19, 2023
Oh man, two chapters in and I was hooked! The chemistry between the two main characters jumps off the page, but not in an overwhelming or fake way. The build up between them feels natural and true, nothing skipped over or “insta-“ about it despite how quick it happens.

That’s pretty much the theme for the whole book. Every detail is fully crafted, and in a few short phrases, Hadley Finn gives you an entire world. In the span of one page, I knew Livy and Layton would push each other to be better and reach higher. They would challenge and push and demand the best from one another, both driven to see the other happy and whole. Despite walking a very thin line of ‘probably shouldn’t but absolutely are anyway’, these two dive head first into ‘damn I want what they have’ territory. I knew that the HEA at the end would feel authentic and well earned because every interaction they have (both with each other and other characters) is honest and true.

Both their triumphs and their failures give insite to who Livy and Layton are as people. Livy’s insecurities and Layton’s grief and loneliness aren’t used as archetype props, but give them dimension and depth that draw the reader in. They have their own issues to work on individually, and find healing within themselves rather than become dependent on the other for completeness. I appreciate Livy’s pride and respect for herself. I ache with Layton’s uncertainty and fear. Their journeys coexist, but never over take who they are as individuals.

And then there’s Hadley’s prose! Holy moly, the way she turns a phrase is brilliant. My favorite is: “Layton Ranger’s ego pushes into the room ahead of him. If he were a cartoon character, a swirling cloud of red hearts would surround him, kept in motion by swagger and self-love.” I fell in love with her writing right there. The book is littered with phrases just like that one. Every character is so unapologetically themselves, zero cardboard or cookie cutter personalities in the bunch. I love the banter, love the clarity of the character voices - it’s such a compelling attribute to the story.

My only problem with this book is that I didn’t read the first few. But even still, coming into this series alone, you don’t need to read the first books to understand the characters or events of this one. There are call backs to the other books in the series, but an uninitiated reader isn’t left behind because it it.

If I sound a little in love, it’s because I absolutely am. This is exactly the kind of book I love to read! Sports, romance, good writing, natural flow, realistic characters… I have nothing except lovely feelings over this book.
Profile Image for Tracey.
23 reviews2 followers
June 21, 2023
What can I say about this book that will not give too much away. Layton will definitely surprise you in this book. The comedian and the baby of the family is so much more than how you have seen him in his siblings books. Hadley shows so much emotion and vulnerability with both Layton and Livy’s stories, separate and together. This is an amazing book to conclude The Ranger family series and hopefully we will see them again in other series that she has planned. Hope you all enjoy this must read as much as I did. 🥰
56 reviews1 follower
June 23, 2023
I have waited for Layton for so long, and it was worth the wait.

I downloaded this book on vacation and then stayed up until 4am. because this story flowed so well, I couldn't put it down. When I woke up the next morning, instead of enjoying Italy, I kept reading. When the rain came while I was walking around, I enjoyed lunch while continuing to read about Layton and Livy.

I am glad this idea percolate at Indies invade Philly.
Profile Image for George Tyler.
236 reviews3 followers
June 22, 2023
I don't know how to review this and keep it spoiler free but buckle up and enjoy the ride. There's so many Layton's in this book and as you read, you understand him more. The Layton we saw in previous books is even more in this one. And Livy, oh wow. This was such an amazing story. Basically just pick it up and read it, It's worth it.
Profile Image for Robert.
21 reviews
June 22, 2023
This book os the field goal that goes out of the stadium, the last minute touchdown that wins the game. Hadley has written the perfect book to wrap up the Rangers series.

Layton had me running the full gambit of emotions. You are gonna laugh and laugh hard. You will cry tears of sadness and joy. You will ride the highs and lows of Layton and Pixie along with the entire Ranger family.

Honestly I can’t rave enough about this book.
Profile Image for Christie Hardin.
200 reviews50 followers
July 10, 2025
I’m so in love with the Ranger clan. This series is so good. Don’t sit on reading it. You won’t regret it.

7/10/25 - this is my 2nd re-read of this series. The book will break you down and then put you back together. Layton & Liv forever.
Profile Image for Miss Andrews.
458 reviews16 followers
June 13, 2023
Hadley Finn is a new author to me so I was a little sceptical. I mistakenly thought this was a sports romance, which I like but they’re not my go-to reads. But wow!! There is a little sports in it but the focus is solely on Layton and Livvy and the pain and suffering they endure.

I fell in love with these two characters. They were so perfect for each other. Their chemistry shining brightly from my kindle.

I loved this book so much I immediately bought the previous books in the series!!

Layton is a spellbinding character. He’s a total dominating alpha male but he’s also open and loving, cocky and sure, a man who loves his family.

He swept me away from my life and took me on a journey to full of heartache and happiness.

This story touched my heart. Layton is such a strong man. His determination is a sight to see. I felt his pain and suffering. The emotions Hadley Finn portrayed were heart rendering and beautiful.

Livvy is a beautiful character. The perfect match for Layton. I love her caring nature, her ability to see other pain and change her life in order to help.

She’s open and caring and in my opinion, watching her family unit with Kyle was utterly heart warming. I think, when done right, the addition of a pet adds such a massive depth to the story .

Watching Layton and Livvy traverse their extremely rocky path to their HEA was a truly spellbinding and addictive read.

Hadley Finn is a talented author who writes with an obvious love for her art. She weaves her words perfectly and pulled me in straight away, allowing me a front row seat to this beautiful story.

These character became my friend, even Pop, who I adored.

Can’t recommend highly enough.

Way more than 5 stars for this stunning read.
Profile Image for Elizabeth.
748 reviews9 followers
June 15, 2023
Layton is powerful and emotional.

Layton by Hadley Finn is a powerful and emotional book, and I could not put it down. It’s one of those books that is so much more than anticipated, and when you’re finished, stays with you for days. This book has it ALL. The strong alpha hero, Layton Ranger, the youngest of the Ranger siblings, a star wide receiver in the NFL; he knows his abilities are a cut above the rest and his charm goes on for days. The intelligent, beautiful, and sassy heroine, Physical Therapist, Dr. Olivia Morgan, believes she can help make Layton faster and stronger through diet, yoga, and the will to be even better. The family to die for that’s close and up in your business, and the Rangers won’t take no for an answer when you need help.

Layton and Olivia are drawn together even though as player and trainer there is a ‘no fraternization policy’, but with one incident their worlds completely change. There are so many layers to Layton, it’s hard to know where to begin. He’s larger than life, charming, does the right thing, and is so hot in the bedroom. All the qualities of a perfect alpha hero. Yet, he’s awfully vulnerable when the course of his life is altered. Olivia, while holding most of her emotions in, has some major trauma to overcome and is without a substantial support system. They follow their own journeys of physical, emotional, and mental struggles, and my heart broke for each on several occasions. There were so many OMG! moments, so many surprises, combined with the masterful storytelling of Hadley Finn made this a TOP reads of this year! Don’t read any spoilers, just read this book!!! Thank you to the author for an advanced copy for my honest review.
Profile Image for Bex_Book_Revieux.
812 reviews57 followers
June 25, 2023
So many brilliant words to describe this phenomenal book Hadley Finn wrote with heart, strength and grace, and I'm at a loss to find them all.

Layton and his Pixie are on fire from page one, he hands her guff and she swings so much sass right back it goes flying over the desk right back at him. I agreed with her, I thought maybe he wouldnt break down his ego enough, and there'd be another way for their 'real' meet cute to happen.

But I should have known, Emilia Ranger's son had no quit in him, and he was right back in Livy's yoga class the next time she opened. When the worst thing possible happens and Laytons career falls out from under him, I was devastated for him. I could never imagined it would get as bad as it did, but im so glad his family was there to pick him up and help him where they could.

The Romantic Suspense in Layton us spine tingling and had me going down the wrong path until the 85% mark (sorry George 😉!)!! I was absolutely stunned at where Ms. Finn led us, and the clues she finally laid out in a neat little row, it was terrifying to think someone could want to screw things up that badly.

The entire Ranger family is a blessing in this book, standing strong behind every single member when they need it and giving care exactly where its needed. Exton and Braxton are so very special, but the women stand as a force unto their own and should never be taken for granted.

Through so many tears, and warm fuzzies, and absolutely scary spots where I was holding my breath, this was the perfect ending to the Ranger series and im going to miss them dearly. Hadley Finn scored a touchdown and ran in the 3 extra points for a perfect finish!! My hats off to her and this delicious, five star, steamy, gorgeous love story!! I wish I could start all over and read it again for the first time!

*I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review *
Profile Image for CourtneyS.
654 reviews36 followers
June 19, 2023
Overall: 🌟🌟🌟🌟🌟 /5
Spice Level: 🌶🌶🌶/5
Recommend: YES!!
Re-read/re-listen: Yes!!!
Trope: 2nd chance, Forced Proximity


•Favorite parts:
"Tell me a secret"
Pinky promise
The Club at the beginning
The trip to Boston
Livy going mama bear
The text messages



• Thoughts:
Okay.... (deep breath, exhale) I don't know where to begin. I am ashamed to say I seriously questioned Hadley in this story, I am deeply sorry, Hadley, and i have learned my lesson. I will NEVER do that again. Layton and Livy have it rough!!!!! Their story is so unbelievably special. These two characters are put through the ringer. I mean.. dang!
Your heart breaks for them. You want to be in the atory and just hug them and say it will be okay. I was expecting it to go one way,(please don't ask me why) and it took a U-turn, did not pass go to collect $200 dollars, and decided to take a happy little detour. I mean this in the VERY best way, of course.
This book was absolutely perfect and written beautifully. I loved it from the first chapter until the last sentence of the epilogue. I am thrilled that all the Rangers have their happily ever afters. But I am also sad this series has come to an end. This family has been epic and out of this world to read about. Each story is, of course, unique and so special. Layton and Livy are definitely no exception. But I feel they have a very special place in my heart. What they go through individually and as a couple! What they do to overcome.... I love them with my whole heart! I'm going to say this book is in my top read of the year!!! Way to go, Hadley!!! I love it!! Add this book to your TBR immediately!
Profile Image for Carrie.
3,656 reviews36 followers
May 26, 2023
This might be my favorite, altho I've loved every single story in the series, so... idk, but Layton & Livy have a huge piece of my heart. Plus, Kyle. He's a good boy! 💜

Layton & Livy's road to their HEA is emotional. There are demons to fight, obstacles to overcome. There are bits where they're not together on-page; we're with them as they navigate individual obstacles. Normally, this is where I peace out on stories, because it can feel like our couple doesn't get enough page time as a couple. The awesome thing with how this one's written, though, is that it never FEELS like they're apart. I mean, from a rooting for them perspective, I FELT IT. I rooted for them to make it through their personal struggles & missing each other & trying to just be.

It's just that, the time they're apart (NOT IN AN SOB KIND OF WAY! There is no seemingly obligatory breakup here, that's not the vibe), I still felt their connection. And I devoured their story!

Layton & Livy are protective of each other. They truly CARE about each other from almost the first time they meet.

I love the family time with all my Rangers & Rangers-to-be. I love the catch up & updates on our couples. I love Pop!! ❤️ And the new friends we meet here, too.

It's amazing and beautiful and STEAMY (the author was not kidding about me being happy Layton is spelled differently from my nephew 🤣). 🔥🔥🔥🔥🔥

And the epilogue...!

😍😍😍😍😍
Profile Image for Jenn the Readaholic.
2,178 reviews70 followers
June 9, 2023
This one is so bittersweet. The Rangers are all happy in their lives, home is definitely where they all are, and I still want more. Layton and Livy do NOT have an easy story. They both have some secrets. Some fears. Some angst. And misery. And when one feels it’s too much, the other steps up to be their strength. Y’know, like family would. And trust me, these two deserve all the family they can get.

I won’t spoil this one, but believe me when I say it’s a rough road for both Layton and Livy. They both carry pain that’s become part of them. But one is still willing to put it all on the line to support the other, and then that favor is returned. I can confirm that the accuracy around one difficult journey is so very realistic here, too. The worry that they may not follow through, the gut-dropping feeling when you figure out what’s been happening, the hope for a better tomorrow. All of it. And this author managed to portray it and the other big thing that makes these two feel as though they may be lacking apart, but oh so perfect together in such a way that I just know I’ll keep coming back for more from her.

And now I have hopes for a new series from the happiness of this one. Personally, I can’t wait to see what she brings to us next!
Profile Image for read_with_twink.
213 reviews20 followers
July 12, 2023
ARC review of Layton by Hadley Finn
I was lucky enough to enjoy an early release of this book. I hadn’t realised it was part of a series prior to reading it and was my first book by this author.
I loved the characters and their development throughout the story. I really enjoyed the storyline and thought it would be all about the sports but it wasn’t…. So if you aren’t a sports romance fan do not let that put you off. This book is more about the characters and their family than the MMC being a sports star.
My only complaint would be there was a situation which happened causing the MMC and the FMC not to communicate for at least 30% of the book at the start. I know it was to allow for development in the characters as individuals but for me personally it was just a long section of the book where the main characters didn’t communicate. You don’t need to read the previous books in the series prior to this one but it would be recommended because there is spoilers in this one about their stories.
Please check TWs as it does cover sensitive issues such as addiction, depression and loss of a relative.
Overall I loved this book and would give it 5🌟 and 3 🌶️ and would 100% recommend you get this added to your TBR
142 reviews1 follower
June 18, 2023
I would say this is different from the first three Rangers book. While the other books has more suspense and action, Layton's story is more on the emotional side. It actually gutted me and I couldn't wait until everything feels good again. Hadley did a good job in exploring Layton and Livy's vulnerabilities. I could feel the hopelessness from both characters. Livy might be short but she compensates in her character and personality. She's no push over and is a strong support to Layton. Layton's story is about losing something big and gaining something better.

Willa was a surprise to me, she's funny. I don't remember if she was that playful in Exton but she added a lightness to the situation. I love Emberleigh's passion and drive to help Layton. And who can ignore Colt's cuteness and the way he says the f word sounding Irish lol. The Rangers family showed again that they are a strong unit and will bond together to overcome their challenges. I love this family. There are a lot of pop culture references. As a LOTR fan, I love the references.

I am happy how it ended but sad that this is the end of the series. I can't wait what she has in store.
50 reviews2 followers
June 18, 2023
Layton is so…unexpected. He is not at all what I was expecting from reading about him in the previous books in the series. He is so much more. Yes, he is a cocky alpha male who is hot as 🔥 but there is so much more to him. Livy is a strong independent woman despite, or maybe it’s because of, her upbringing. I love Layton and Livy. Separately and together, they endure and overcome so much. My heart broke for them. One shocking moment in time changed the course of Layton’s life forever. What follows is a beautifully written, gut-wrenching journey for both Layton and Livy to get to their HEA. The entire Ranger family is involved in Layton and Livy’s journey, and I loved all the interaction and getting to catch up with each of them. Once I started the book, I couldn’t put it down. Do yourself a favor and read this book!! If I could give it more than 5 stars, I would.
Profile Image for Sophia Buhrman.
51 reviews
June 28, 2023
Honestly, this wasn't my favorite book ever. But it also wasn't the worst. The beginning started off weak, not really making me all that interested-but then it picked up in the middle. And then he became a jerk to her for no reason. Then he was really sweet to her-and I just didn't know how to feel about him, anymore.

I will say, I thought there was a portion in the middle of this book that was both hilarious and cute, but so, so swoony. That part was what really made me love this book. But, the hero had to go and ruin it for me. I feel like it was completley overlooked that he hides just about everything from her, and gets so angry when she does the same thing for a much better reason.

Overall, I though 3 stars was accurate for this book. It wasn't horrible-I enjoyed the writing and some of the book, but it also put me in a reading slump.
Profile Image for C.B. Noy.
Author 10 books325 followers
May 31, 2023
This book…this freaking book hit me with all the feels. I laughed, I ugly cried, I threw my phone (because yes I read on my kindle app on my Iphone…don’t judge), then I picked it up off the floor and kept right on reading. Why you ask? Because Layton and Livy are EVERYTHING.

Hadley Finn nailed the emotions in the story better than a seasoned carpenter with his trusty hammer. It’s just that good. This isn’t your typical boy meets girl and then they live happily ever after kinda book, so if you’re looking for something with no muss and no fuss, then keep on looking. This book is deep and gritty and about as real as it can get. So if excellent writing and a top-notch story are your jam, then saddle up and give Layton Ranger your full attention.
Profile Image for Berta.
718 reviews
July 13, 2023
I totally am a sports romance junkie and I really wanted to read this.... but somehow I knew it would be best to read the previous few books before getting to this. I was only wanting sports theme but it was not difficult to become invested in the Ranger ranch and the Ranger family.
I'm glad I read them before hand. It added alot to alllll the feels. I felt the things Livy and Layton were feeling! I'll be thinking about this one for a while.
Man, so much happened in this book. I will definitely be watching for other books from this author.
I loved the last few chapters, and the epilogue. My heart! What a great way to end the series.
Profile Image for Leisa Ann.
788 reviews11 followers
June 16, 2023
Man oh man what a series! I absolutely loved Layton and Livy! This book was so much more than I expected. It’s a story of rising to the occasion, doing the right thing which isn’t always the easy thing and pushing through the hard stuff to get to the good stuff. It’s easy to get caught up in a career and feel like that’s what defines you but through Layton it’s clear that’s far from the truth and Layton is so much more than an NFL football player. These characters and this family have been so easy to love and to lose track of time while pouring over the pages of the book.
13 reviews
June 23, 2023
I usually scroll past sports romances, it's just not my thing...usually. I am so glad I stepped out of my comfort zone, and gave this book a try. There are many issues comming at Layton and Livy that keeps you wondering if this will be the thing that breaks the camels back. The two types of families are so contrasting, it's easy to know which one you would want to be part of. As the old saying goes, nothing worth having is easy. Well, that couldn't be more true with this couple. Do yourself a favor and give this one a look. You won't be disappointed!
Profile Image for Anna Mcdonnell.
129 reviews1 follower
June 23, 2023
Layton Ranger might be my favorite!! I have loved each and every Ranger sibling story but Layton takes the top. (Side Note: In my opinion this can be read as a standalone).

Layton is the youngest of 4 and he has always been a bit of a mystery. Shows up for special occasions, quiet and focused. I couldn't wait to read who would take him on.

Enter Livy who is small but mighty. She has a determination and passion for helping people and I love her no quit attitude.

Reading the epilogue was my favorite! I loved everything about their journey! 5 Stars for Layton!
Profile Image for Lauren L. Moon.
Author 7 books26 followers
June 26, 2023
I was obsessed on chapter ONE! This is my first book with Hadley but I'll be a lifetime reader now!

Be prepared for tears. Because I cried. As their story continued, it was emotional, scary, and had me on the edge of my seat through the whole book.

The details were AMAZING!

The relationship growth? Along with character growth? AMAZING!

I can't tell you how much I loved this book. How much I loved that it was also able to be read As a standalone.

I'm not gonna go read the first couple of books because I need to know.
Profile Image for Amy.
1,116 reviews34 followers
July 7, 2023
This is my first book in the series and while I enjoyed it there were parts of the story that I didn't.
My number one issue was the whole family dynamics. It was just too much of a strong bond that became nauseating. Seriously everybody in everyone's business. I did love Layton's Pop so he gets a pass. There was a lot of things that Layton kept from Liv as their relationship progressed which bothered me because he was always pressing her to "Tell me a secret Pix" so that annoyed me. Overall I liked their story.
565 reviews8 followers
June 13, 2023
Layton was an amazing story. Hadley Finn definitely outdid herself with this story. This book has all the feels. I alternately laughed and cried through almost the entire book. Layton and Livy definitely did not have an easy time of it. They both have secrets and difficult times ahead. Every book has been my favorite and this one is no exception. Trust me when I say, you need to get this book ASAP. Sorry, no spoilers. I received this ARC and here is my honest review.
Profile Image for Ashley Dranguet.
105 reviews86 followers
June 21, 2023
I don’t think I could love this book more if I tried. I stayed awake till 1 am finishing it because I just couldn’t put it down. Everything about this story was so emotional and heartfelt. Those are my favorite type of books. Ones that make me FEEL. And boy did this book make me feel all the things. I fell in love with their story, their relationship, their love. It was all such a beautiful, tragic story, but @hadleyfinnbooks took it to all the right places.
1 review
June 21, 2023
This was a cute one. I enjoyed their love story because it had passionate moments, but it also had moments of struggle and anguish of wanting them to be together. Layton's struggles had me rooting for him throughout the book and I admire Livy for how she stuck by his side. I did feel that some moments of this book were a little bit out of left field, I could see the vision for them, but I think the storyline could've been told just as well without some of the extra moments.
Profile Image for Liz [reads books].
1,314 reviews63 followers
June 25, 2023
This book was a lot more complicated than I expected it to be. What a ride it turned out to be.
The gist of it is - they find each other, have feelings for one another, are separated by more than one hurdle, spend time apart dealing with their own personal demons (physically, mentally, and emotionally), then, once back together physically, make their way back to each other mentally and emotionally.
The thing stressed me out. It was well written and a page turner. 4 stars
Displaying 1 - 30 of 49 reviews

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