For The Promise: a fake marriage, opposites attract small town romantic comedy

The Raider Brothers #2

by D.E. Haggerty

He ghosted her after one kiss. Now he’s her husband. Temporarily. Too bad her heart didn’t get the message.

We kissed once. Then he ghosted me like I was a bad Wi-Fi signal.

Which, fine. I wasn’t looking for forever with Jaxon Raider – the island’s grumpiest whiskey nerd with stunning blue eyes, shoulders strong enough to carry all my burdens, and the social skills of a sea cucumber. A rebound? Maybe. A fling? Sure. But disappearing without a word? Rude.

Fast forward a few months and guess what? We’re married.

Okay, it’s fake. Totally temporary. Just a convenient little marriage to keep my greedy ex from slithering back into my life. But sharing one bed with my hot, broody ‘husband’ is starting to blur the lines between real and pretend. And the way he’s suddenly stepping up? It’s messing with my head.

This isn’t forever. It’s just a performance. So why does walking away feel like it might break me?

This fake marriage, opposites attract small town romantic comedy features a woman who will absolutely, positively not allow her ex to steal from her, a nerdy man who’d rather hide away with his whiskey than deal with people who nonetheless finds himself married to a woman who’s his complete opposite, and a group of brothers who think pranking is an expression of love.

For The Promise is a standalone novel in the Raider Brothers series.

Until it was Real – Rhett and Dakota’s story
For the Promise – Jaxon and Blossom’s story
From the Start – Kai and Harper’s story
Since you Arrived – Zane and Sloane’s story
After you Returned – Miles and Hazel’s story

Genres: Romance

302 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 10, 2025

About the author

D.E. Haggerty is actually just plain old Dena, but she thinks using initials makes her sound like one of the cool kids. She was born and raised in the U.S. but has spent the majority of her adult life abroad living in cool-sounding places like Istanbul, Heidelberg, and The Hague. She has job hopped from military policewoman to lawyer to B&B owner. She finally jumped off the job hopping bandwagon a few years ago when she decided to turn her addiction to romance novels into a career. If anyone has ideas on how to turn a love of wine into a job, she's all ears.

Join her newsletter and get a FREE small town romantic comedy ➡️ https://dehaggerty.com/subscribe/

Reviews

[Claudia, Cmarie927 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I was so happy to be back with these characters, and to follow Jaxon and Blossom's journey to forever! The pages could not turn fast enough.

This series (like so many from this talented author) is full of fun banter, sizzling chemistry, found family vibes, and a town that I wish was my own! Jaxon is the most controlled of the Raider brothers, and takes his job as head distiller very seriously. There's not much that distracts him from perfecting his whiskey blends - that is, until Blossom sets her sights on him. An outgoing, confident woman, Blossom is drawn to Jaxon's nerdy, gorgeous persona, and makes it her mission to bring levity into his life. Little does she know what she has awoken in him, and the lengths he will go to keep her tied to him. The connection between them is sweet, flirty, steamy, protective, and everything I wanted for them.

If you have enjoyed other prior series, or addictive works from this author, you will gladly set aside time for this one. It has everything we want and love from her books, and I can't get enough of the spirited and fun banter between characters. It makes me feel like I am right in the room with them - love it! Characters from past series show up here too, so that was an added bonus!

Reading in order is recommended for the best experience. I look forward to the next brother's story! I received an ARC (thank you) and happily leave my thoughts.

[Kerry Kennedy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Addicted to this series of the Raider brothers.
This is Jaxon and Blosdoms' story.
The fake date trope is also one of my favourites.
These two have chemistry that leaps off the page and banter that comes like ocean waves.
Whilst there are deep issues for Blossom, her parents died coming to visit her, the author handles it and survivor's guilt with empathy.
If you enjoy small town romance with strong characters, pranks, brilliant friends as side characters and still getting a hood dose of Eli and Rhett, this would suit you.
Kerry Kennedy Author

[Barbara · Rating 4 out of 5]

What fun being back in Smuggler’s Hideaway with our favorite characters! Jaxon and Blossom seem like opposites, but there’s so much more to both of them than meets the eye. Will Jaxon’s fear of abandonment keep him from taking a chance? Will Blossom get past the death of her parents and the betrayal of her ex? Plenty of hi jinx when the Raider brothers are around. Enjoyed this story from beginning to end and am looking forward to more from the younger Raider brothers.

[Michellelovesreading · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this so much. I read this book in a couple days. I 10/10 recommended this book.


Stars:⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Spice:🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️

[Jacklyn B · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was such a fun read!! Jaxon and Blossom are complete opposites but their chemistry and their connection are so good! They start out a little rough but the moment when Blossom needs him to be her fake husband Jaxon really steps up - swoon!!! We slowly get to see his inner cinnamon roll come out!

I loved Blossom too - she is feisty and strong and I loved her female friend group. I am seriously in love with these characters and the town - there are so many laugh out loud moments. The Raider brothers are so funny when they get together. I also liked the small town shenanigans/quirky moments!

Also, can I just say that I LOVED the chapter titles/captions!!!

✨What To Expect:
💖Romantic Comedy
🏡Small Town Vibes
💍Fake Marriage
🧲Opposites Attract
🛏️One Bed
🥃Nerdy Whiskey Distiller
🍻Sunshiny Beer Brewer
😂Witty Banter
💞 Found family
🧜🏻‍♀️ Mermaids
🧨 Brotherly Pranks

[TrishAM · Rating 5 out of 5]

I want to live in Smugglers Hideaway, a town where everyone knows everyone, where nothing is secret, where there is a festival every other week, where pranking is a national sport, where Sammy the seal is the town's pet and where all the residents are wonderful, zany, characters.
This is Blossom and Jaxon's story.
Blossom Nelson was a newcomer to the town, she had moved there after an acrimonious ending to a relationship, she was alone, her parents had been killed in a car crash, she desperately wanted to fit in, she had a job as assistant brewer at the brewery owned by her friends.
Jaxon Raider was the middle one of the six Raider brothers, the eldest brother, Billionaire Eli, had set up Buccaneer's Whiskey to create jobs for his brothers. Jaxon was a nerd of the family, the social skills of a sea cucumber, he was the head distiller and probably the only one to take the job seriously, oh did I mention, under his glasses he had the most beautiful deep blue eyes.
There was an immediate chemistry between the beautiful, sassy, outspoken, brewers assistant and the grumpy, anti social distiller but even though opposites attract, Jaxon had abandonment issues and Blossom had a secret that was causing her big problems........a greedy ex.
Jaxon may be a nerd but he was protective of Blossom and if marriage was the only way that she could get the upper hand on her ex then he was her man.
Fake marriage stories are not a new concept but the author has put her own unique spin on this one, the witty banter, the pranking, the uncertainty, the ghosting, the passion , will Blossom finally get the family that she craves? I now can't wait for Kai and Harper's story.
I received a free copy of this book and my review is voluntary

[Book Nerdy 2020 · Rating 4 out of 5]

FOR THE PROMISE By D.E. Haggerty

We kissed once. Then he ghosted me like I was a bad Wi-Fi signal.
Which, fine. I wasn’t looking for forever with Jaxon Raider – the island’s grumpiest whiskey nerd with stunning blue eyes, shoulders strong enough to carry all my burdens, and the social skills of a sea cucumber. A rebound? Maybe. A fling? Sure. But disappearing without a word? Rude.
Fast forward a few months and guess what? We’re married.
Okay, it’s fake. Totally temporary. Just a convenient little marriage to keep my greedy ex from slithering back into my life. But sharing one bed with my hot, broody ‘husband’ is starting to blur the lines between real and pretend. And the way he’s suddenly stepping up? It’s messing with my head.
This isn’t forever. It’s just a performance. So why does walking away feel like it might break me?

😊What i liked -

✔Marriage Of Convenience/Opposites Attract/Sort Of Enemies To Lovers/Grumpy-Sunshine/Found Family/Small Town.
✔I loved Nerdy Jaxon and Blossom is hilarious. I loved the banter between the two and the lengths Jaxon goes to, to keep her with him. Again this group of friends and past characters of the series and this band of brothers are absolute gems. Hilarious to the core and loyal to the core. This book is full of feels, pranks, funny and spicy banter and quirky moments that keep you hooked to the book.

🤔What could have been better-

✔ What a horrible Ex.

📚Who Should read :
👶Beginners
💝Romance Lover
💍Marriage Of Convenience Romance
🏡Small Town Romance

📈My Rating : 4.5/5

Thank you, D.E. Haggerty, for a copy.

[Sue I need a HEA · Rating 4 out of 5]

Second book in the Raider Brother’s Series set in smuggler’s hideaway. This series is a spin-off of the Smuggler’s Hideaway series.

****************
Tropes
****************
- found family
- socially awkward H
- nerdy H 🤓
- workaholic H
- grumpy H / Sunshine h
- extrovert h / introvert H
- fake marriage
- rom com
- 3.5/5 🌶️ spicy
- there is a short 3rd act breakup 💔
- mild angst due to miscommunication 😢
- HEA ❤️

****************
⚠️ Triggers ⚠️
****************
- Blossom’s parents die off page - 2 years ago
- Jaxson’s dad ghosted his family when he was a teenager

**********************
My Review - 4/5 stars
**********************
Jaxon is the whiskey distiller at the Raider Brothers’s ‘Buccaneer’s Whiskey & Distillery’, he is socially awkward & takes things very literally. His 5 brothers are always trying to get him out of his shell, especially his 3 goofball younger brothers. Jaxson meets outgoing extrovert Blossom because she is friends with, and works for, his brother Eli’s wife Paisley. Blossom is the Assistant Brewer at Five Fathoms Brewery. Jaxson & Blossom are attracted to each other but he ghosts her after 1 kiss because he has abandonment issues & is afraid he is too boring for her & thinks she will leave him & the island. Then they are thrown into a situation with her ex where she lies and says Jackson is her husband. Jackson goes along with the lie and through a series of funny and sometimes sad interactions they end up with a HEA. Some guest appearances from the Smuggler’s Hideaway series. It was fun going back to Smugglers Hideaway with Sammy the Seal, the smugglers, the mermaids & all of the crazy smuggler & mermaid themed businesses & festivals.

[Cheryl Carpenter · Rating 5 out of 5]

Smuggler's Hideaway is an important character in all these stories including Sammy the seal, but Jaxon and Blossom steal the limelight in this hilarious tale of pranking brothers and fraudulent exes.

Jaxon is the 'middle child' of the Raider brothers, the least sociable, the hardest working, a proud nerd and has abandonment issues. He's the master distiller at Buccaneer's Whiskey and distillery. Due to a problem at the brewery the brewers move into the distillery for a while.

"She giggles and happiness lights up her face while her light brown eyes sparkle. Add in her high cheekbones and there's no denying Blossom is beautiful."

Blossom is the brewer's assistant. She's bubbly and outgoing, relatively new to the island and is trying to stop her ex from taking half of her inheritance.

"He removes his glasses to clean them with his t-shirt. Damn. His blue eyes are even more startling without glasses obscuring them. My stomach tingles with interest. I remind my body what a jerk he was when we arrived. It doesn't care. It wants to watch those blue eyes flare with passion before his tongue swoops into my mouth."

The attraction is there, but Jaxon is determined not to get involved. Until he finds out about her ex.

This is a story about family ties, greed and gold diggers. The banter between Jaxon and Blossom and Jaxon and his brothers is uproariously funny. This author is extremely adept at tackling issues in the most light-hearted way.
I put this book down with a satisfied sigh while I quietly look forward to my next visit to Smuggler’s Hideaway.

[Kristie Reyes · Rating 5 out of 5]

It was so fun jumping back into the cozy and quirky world of Smuggler’s Hideaway! Jaxon and Blossom might seem like total opposites since he’s quiet, serious, and nerdy, while she’s bubbly, bold, and full of sunshine. But their chemistry is undeniable, and watching them fall for each other was so fun!
Jaxon, the middle Raider brother and the head distiller at the family’s whiskey business, is used to keeping his head down and his heart guarded. But when Blossom, a lively assistant brewer with a complicated past and a very messy ex, suddenly needs help, Jaxon finds himself stepping in as her fake husband. What starts as a simple favor quickly turns his carefully ordered world upside down. Their banter is hilarious, their emotional growth feels real, and the fake marriage twist adds just the right amount of drama and sweetness, which I totally ate up! I especially loved seeing Jaxon leave his comfort zone and show up for Blossom again and again!!!
This story is full of family antics, laugh-out-loud moments (the Raider brothers’ pranks never disappoint), and some really tender scenes too! I adored Blossom’s spark and strength, and Jaxon’s quiet protectiveness completely melted my heart! I am loving this series and can’t wait for the next book!
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬 𝐲𝐨𝐮’𝐥𝐥 𝐟𝐢𝐧𝐝 𝐢𝐧 𝐭𝐡𝐢𝐬 𝐛𝐨𝐨𝐤 𝐚𝐫𝐞:
💞Fake marriage
💞One bed
💞Opposites attract
💞Small town
💞Found family
💞Romcom vibes

[Connie · Rating 5 out of 5]

I didn’t expect to fall head over heels for a story that starts with a guy ghosting a girl after one kiss—but here we are. For the Promise had me hooked from the first page with its clever mix of fake marriage chaos, one-bed shenanigans, and all the witty banter you could ask for. The opposites attract dynamic between Jaxon and our fiery, take-no-crap heroine kept me grinning and swooning in equal measure. You can feel the tension as these two tiptoe the line between pretend and something dangerously real, and let me tell you—it’s delicious. The small-town setting is the kind that makes you want to pack your bags and move in, nosy neighbors and all.
What really got me, though, was how much heart this story has. You don’t just root for Jaxon and his surprise wife—you fall for the entire cast, from prank-happy brothers to the quirky townsfolk who feel like a second family. I loved watching Jaxon, the gruff whiskey nerd with the emotional range of a sea cucumber, slowly reveal his softer side. And the heroine? A total powerhouse who refuses to let her ex define her future, even while her heart fumbles through a fake marriage that starts feeling way too real. If you love stories that wrap you in warmth, make you laugh, and leave you a little breathless, For the Promise is exactly what you need.

[W · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blossom & Jaxon

Nerds of the world unite!! Blossom may be the only woman in the world for Jaxon, master distiller at the Raider brothers' distillery. He is obsessed with formulating the perfect blend of whiskey. But Blossom does not take well to being ignored and Jaxon fascinates her. She is just as fascinated with the brewing and distilling process, and fonds his quirks endearing. I loved the way Jaxon paid attention to the most minute details about her and her past. He was upset and infuriated by an insulting or slighting remark, and boy! could her ex and his new bride sure dish out snide comments while trying to steal her inheritance.
I appreciated the way Blossom employed my mother's advice "Run away until he catches you." By never attempting to constrain Jaxon in the confines of a traditional relationship, she kept him in pursuit mode. I found the quirks and foibles of their relationship both reasonable and rather sweet. There were strong motivations to drive the movement of the plot.
I also enjoyed seeing the progress of his older brothers, Eli and Rhett, deepening thrir relationships with her two best friends, Paisley and Dakota.

I received a free advance copy of this story from BookSiren and voluntarily chose to share my review.

[Kelly · Rating 5 out of 5]

4.5 for Blossom and Jaxon's story. This was funny, a touch of spice and a little drama thrown in.

Blossom is a brew master. She's highly intelligent, strong and independent.
Jaxon is highly intelligent and socially awkward. He creates the whiskey for his and his brother's company.

Blossom and Jaxson meet in Book 1 and the first part of this book covers parts of book 1 but from a different perspective. These two are a perfect match and Jaxson spells it out perfectly. Blossom has a secret and it's about her ex, Alan. When Jaxson learns this secret, he offers to help her but being socially awkward, he doesn't realize the fall-out of that action. The drama with her ex adds an exciting element to the story.

So much happens with both characters as they deal with their painful pasts. They've each found their "lobster" in each other and it's heartwarming to have them get there. This story had me laughing, since the brothers and other side characters are all over and it had me in shock as well. Of course Jaxson messes up, and big! I don't think he groveled as much as he should but I understand her feelings on that.

I'm loving this series! 100% recommend for a fun light read!

[Smutty Professor · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adored this book. For the Promise was funny, swoony, emotional, and full of heart. But let’s be real: the true star for me was Jaxon. I’m completely smitten. He might be the quietest of the Raider brothers, but he stole my heart from the very first page. The man is all soft edges hidden under a gruff, nerdy exterior, and I ate up every moment of his awkward charm and unexpected vulnerability.

Jaxon and Blossom are opposites in the best way. She’s vibrant and outgoing, and he’s all intense focus and quiet loyalty- but somehow, they fit so perfectly together. Their banter was fun, their chemistry off the charts, and the emotional growth they both went through made the payoff so lovely. Watching Jaxon step up, despite his fears, and show up for Blossom again and again made me swoon.

Add in the hilarious chaos of the Raider brothers, the charm of Smuggler’s Hideaway, and a fake marriage setup, and you’ve got a story I didn’t want to end. This series continues to be such a cozy, addictive escape, and Jaxon’s story might just be my favorite so far. I’m already counting down the days until the next Raider brother falls!

[Cheryl Casey · Rating 5 out of 5]

I love all the Smugglers Hideaway books, this one really touch my heart. Blossom is outgoing, friendly and literally never met a stranger, at least not for long. Jaxon is the exact opposite. He truly doesn't understand the need for "small talk". He is happiest in his office/lab creating new favors of whiskey. When Blossom sets her sights on him it really is endearing and charming how absolutely clueless Jaxon is. Look out when he comes out of his shell to help Blossom with an issue with her ex! He catches on quick! I don't really have a favorite part. Although I was sincerely hoping that karma would strike Blossom's ex. I giggled when it happened. Thank you Jaxson!! I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. You will definitely get quite a few chuckles from the antics of Jaxson's brothers. They are a hoot!! I love when a fake relationship finds their HEA!! I highly recommend this book. I know I've said it many times but I really would love to move to Smuggler's Hideaway. What a blast it would be to surround yourself with all the many lovable, crazy, amazing people on the Island.

[Teresa Williams · Rating 5 out of 5]

For The Promise: a fake marriage, opposites attract, small town romantic comedy (The Raider Brothers Book 2) by D.E. Haggerty is a fun romance between the chief chemist Jaxson Raider, who distills whiskey at family owned and run, Buccaneer’s Whiskey and Distillery, and Blossom, who works for [Paisley, who runs the Five Fathoms Brewery. Since a hurricane ripped through the island and destroyed Five Fathoms Brewery, Blossom finds herself in close proximity to Jaxson, since Eli Raider offered them a space to brew their beers in their distillery. Knocking heads and swapping snark is how their encounters begin. That is, until Jaxson claims a kiss at work, then spends time ignoring her. All the drama of a small town and an ex-boyfriend leads to Jaxson and Blossom getting married in name only. But how long before their attraction sizzles into a flame? Both have relationship baggage to overcome before considering a real relationship. D.E. Haggerty’s "For The Promise: a fake marriage, opposites attract, small town romantic comedy" (The Raider Brothers Book 2) keeps its promise for a good read with no cheating and a guaranteed HEA.

[An · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blossom Nelson and Jaxon Raider clash from the moment they have to share space after a tornado devastates their island.

Jaxon and Blossom are attracted to each other but both are struggling with past baggage that’s keeping them from fully exploring what could be.

When Jaxon finds out Blossom is having difficulty with an ex, he offers to help her resolve the issue. However, lines begin to blur and it all begins to feel real.

Add in a gaggle of brothers that enjoy interfering into each others business, friends that support you no matter what and a seal that doesn’t know he’s not a traffic signal, this story delivers on many levels.

The brothers are still funny and full of chaos, the prank wars continue and the moonshine still flows in the third installment of the Raider brothers’ saga. The only thing missing is a mascot caper, but the story survives without it.

Spoiler alert: the ex is a real piece of work. The audacity and entitlement are real with this one!🤦🏽‍♀️

Another good story about the residents of Smugglers’ Cove.

I voluntarily reviewed an ARC of this book via Book Sirens.

[Heather Kelley · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received a digital ARC of this book. This is book two in the series and will contain spoilers if you read them out of order. This book’s events overlap with book one, so their are scenes/events that are in both. I beg for Haggerty’s ARC copies because I can’t wait for the books to come out. This series is a spin-off of another series and I love knowing the side characters from that series. Jaxon is one of the Raider brothers, they own a whiskey distillery on the island. Blossom works at the beer brewery that has to share space after a hurricane took their space out. Jaxon is very territorial and comes off rude, but Blossom is determined to win him over with her sunshine personality. Both have emotional baggage, because who doesn’t….and Blossom has a big secret from her past that just might blow things up. I read this book in one sitting, I did not want to put it down. Every time I read a book set in Smuggler’s Hideaway I wish it was real and I could move there! Clear your calendar and enjoy the ride!

[Marie · Rating 5 out of 5]

Blossom enjoys working as an assistant in the brewery. She's smart, sassy, outgoing and speaks her mind, but she's hiding a secret. Moving to Smugglers Hideaway was a fresh start nobody knows her history. This quirky island with all its pirate and mermaid traditions is the perfect place. Until she bumps into her ex and finds out he's there for wedding. Jason knows he's not a people person but he really doesn't care. As long as he can just distill the whiskey as their distillery he's happy. His brothers can just carry on doing their silly pranks just as long as he can just blend in he's happy. That is until Blossom gets under his skin and she's everywhere. But he knows she'll soon disappear like everyone else, until suddenly now he's her fake husband. As always being back on the island is like going home and reading Blossom and Jaxon's story is another perfect addition to this series. Can she break through his nerdy persona. Will Jaxon finally find out her hidden secrets. Or will her ex finally get what he wants. I love this series and can't wait for the next book

[Lisa Benison · Rating 5 out of 5]

Banter, Chemistry, Wacky Small Town, Great Characters - Perfect Beach Read!

Jaxon and Blossom are the perfect couple you didn't know you needed - although they seem to be opposite they are perfect for each other in every way. Jaxon seems "nerdy" but he is actually quite aware of his surroundings (often chasing to ignore them) and Blossom's feelings so it isn't surprising when he jumps in to save her from her awful ex, and Blossom while often emotional is also extremely intelligent and educated thus quite able keeping up with him - so their banter is often hysterical and their chemistry is off the charts. They both have some baggage so it was interesting seeing them open up to each other and working through it. A note to readers who have read other books in the series: this story takes place simultaneously to a couple of the others which initially threw me, but it was explained in the text. I can't wait to see which Raider brother finds love next - Enjoy!

I was sent an ARC by the author and I am voluntarily leaving my honest review.

[Susan · Rating 4 out of 5]

ღ BOOK REVIEW ღ

𝑻𝒉𝒐𝒖𝒈𝒉𝒕𝒔~

Back in the quirky small coastal town of Smuggler’s Hideaway for Jaxson and Blossom.

The sneak peak into this at the end of the previous book at me excited to return. Jaxson aka nerd boy is the serious, glasses wearing master distiller for Buccaneer’s Whiskey & Distillery the family owned and run business. He meets his match in Blossom a fun and sassy transplant to the island who invades his space. They both have some past hang ups and when the ex who is trying to steal from her shows up Jaxson helps her level up with a fake marriage that turns out to be not so fake in the feelings department. Can they both over come there fears and make it real? This is a standalone in the series but the previous characters are a part of daily life so they do show up so I feel reading in order will make for a better reading experience.

As always I love this island and all the residents and quirky animals and the Raider brother prank wars. A good quick fun read.

•romantic comedy •fake marriage •opposites attract •standalone •prank wars •millionaire

[Stephanie Roy · Rating 4 out of 5]

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Fake Marriage + Small Town Sparks = Delightful Rom-Com Magic

For the Promise follows Jaxon and Blossom—complete opposites—who enter a fake-marriage arrangement in a charming small-town setting. What starts as a convenient solution quickly becomes a slow-burning romance full of heart, humor, and heartfelt moments.

Their chemistry is on point, and their push-pull dynamic—grumpy Jaxon meeting Sunshine Blossom—is a treat. I especially loved how Jaxon was adorably socially awkward, making their bonding feel genuine. The trope of opposites-attract really sings here, with tension that gradually heats up in all the right ways.

Quirky small-town shenanigans, warm friendship vibes, and supportive side characters round out the story. And yes—there’s a grand romantic gesture that truly delivers. The pacing stays solid, though a few scenes could’ve been fleshed out a little more, but nothing that hurt the overall journey.

Tropes & emojis to adore:
💍 Fake Marriage / Marriage of Convenience
🌤️ Opposites Attract—Grumpy Jaxon + Sunshine Blossom
🏡 Small Town Setting
❤️‍🔥 Slow-Burn Romance
🌸 Warm Friend Group
🎭 Quirky Side Characters
🎁 Grand Romantic Gesture

In summary:
A cozy, feel-good read! If you’re craving a charming fake-marriage setup, heartfelt Slow Burn, and small-town comfort with emotional payoff, For the Promise is a great pick.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. Thank BookSirens!

[Crystal Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

This story absolutely stole my heart and had me cracking up.

Jaxon is the hard working, least sociable, and nerdy Raider brother. He is the master distiller and he takes his job very seriously. He also has some abandonment issues from when his father left when he was younger.

Blossom is full of sunshine and has a quirky, bubbly and outgoing personality. She is a brewers assistant. She has also sworn off men because of her ex that is suing her.

When Jaxon and Blossom meet, the attraction is instant. Jaxon is determined to stay away and Blossom is in determined to pursue him. But after he ghosts her when they kiss, she also gives up. But Jaxon finds out about her situation with her ex and next thing they know they are in a fake marriage. The banter in this book is so much fun between all the characters. The connection between Jaxon and Blossom is so much fun to watch grow and turn into something even bigger. The Raider brothers always have me giggling with their shenanigans.

This book is cute, hilarious, and even has the right amount of spice when needed.

4⭐️
2🌶️

[Megan · Rating 5 out of 5]

After reading Until it was Real, I couldn't wait to see what happened between Blossom and Jaxon.

Jaxon just wants to be left alone with his work, but that all changes when he meets Blossom. She has sworn off men after her ex but she can't take her off the sexy nerdy man she has to work near.

I loved both of these characters! They both are so different yet fit so well with each other. When Jaxon finds out about Blossom's ex, he is quick to jump in and help her, as her new fake husband. Lines start to blur, and feelings become more real. I loved how Jaxon stood up for Blossom with her ex because he was such a jerk. What he did was so satisfying.

I was so happy to be back in the Smugglers Hideaway world. I love how cozy it is. You get cute otters, seals, mermaids, and of course the Raider brothers! I can not wait until we get Kai's story with Harper! So excited for that one!! 🧜🏻‍♀️🦭

[Books_and_coco · Rating 4 out of 5]

🥃 For the Promise - ARC Review 🥃

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This book was such a cozy, feel-good ride. Being back in Smuggler’s Hideaway felt like catching up with old friends : familiar, fun, and full of heart.

Jaxon is the quiet, glasses-wearing Raider brother who takes his distilling as seriously as he guards his emotions. Blossom is all sunshine and sass, a brewer’s assistant with a messy past and zero fear of shaking things up. Their opposites-attract dynamic was an absolute treat with awkward tension, real emotional stakes, and a fake marriage that slowly turns into something neither of them expected (but I totally rooted for).

The sibling banter, the chaotic Raider energy, and the little town details made this story shine. And while I would've loved just a bit more depth in a few scenes, the emotional payoff and steady pacing made it a really satisfying read.

Thank you to @dehaggerty for this ARC !

[Patricia Baxes · Rating 5 out of 5]

Be still my heart…I knew this book with Jaxon and Blossom was going to be amazing, but I just didn’t think it was going to be this amazing! Grab yourself something to drink and a ton of tissues before you begin cause this one is going to take you on an incredible emotional roller coaster. Get comfortable and get started NOW.

D. E. Haggerty always delivers a kick a$$ read, but this one is truly special. The storyline is so amazing; the characters are not only well written but actually seem like people you might know; the plot is well done with just enough twists and turns to keep you guessing; and that totally wonderful HEA truly captures your heart and soul. This one belongs at the top of your TBR list—don’t let it slip away! (I voluntarily reviewed an advance reader copy of this book and and fell totally in love with the story and characters!) ❤️❤️

[Danelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This was an especially fun Raider brother story. Nerdy Jaxon meets his soulmate in Blossom. Now is he man enough to help her get rid of her ex? Jaxon cooks up a plan to rid her of him for good but it means stepping into the chaos that is Blossom and put himself out of his comfort zone. Blossom isn’t sure he’s up to the task either but she’s about to find out that Jaxon is more than nerd “boy” and a brilliant whiskey blender. The whole Raider crew come to the rescue to help him when he screws up and find his/their HEA. Some of this story is taking place concurrently with the previous brother’s stories but you wont be lost if you haven’t read them. This was another fun chapter in Smugglers Hideaway and definitely worth the read. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[darkromancexo · Rating 5 out of 5]

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Jaxon & Blossom

I was so happy to be back in Smugglers Hideaway with the Raiders Brothers. Of course it’s Jaxon’s story the hot nerdy whiskey distiller who has social anxiety but loves to wear his nerdy shirts. He instantly falls for the gorgeous outgoing beautiful Blossom who also has a degree in chemistry. There’s instant attraction between these two and once Blossom feels Jaxon’s lips on hers. She tries hard to get bother Jaxon for another or for him to notice her again, but no dice. Until Blossom runs into her ex and just to one up and to get him to call off a lawsuit she says she’s married to none other than Jaxon.
One weekend in a chalet how could things turn out? Will they fight their attraction or give into what they both want.
I loved this book so much and these two ughh so adorable an introvert and an extrovert so good.
I can’t wait for the next books.

[Joyce · Rating 5 out of 5]

Being the middle child of 5 brothers, Jaxon is the nerd child. He is a master distiller at Buccaneer’s Whiskey and is serious about producing the best whiskey. Blossom has no blood family so her friends are her family and would do anything for her. She has a bubbly personality and is an assistant brewer of beer. When Blossom’s ex shows up reminding her he wants half of her inheritance, Jaxon jumps right in to help her. They end up with a fake marriage until they can get Alan’s upcoming marriage and threats done with. This means spending lots of time together. As their feelings for each other grew, so did their fears. Another great story that always has the right amount of drama, laugh out loud moments, love, and of course the pranks.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Annette · Rating 5 out of 5]

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I loved this trip back to Smugglers Hideaway. Jaxon and Blossom were wonderful together. They seemed like opposites yet they were more alike than they realised. They complemented each other beautifully.

I never expected Jaxon to step up like he did. His awkwardness had him doing and saying the wrong thing most of the time but when he learnt of Blossom’s problem, he knew exactly what to do. He was the champion she needed.

As usual, Dena managed to weave a beautiful romance with a touch of comedy that had me laughing out loud at times.

This book has it all. The wonderful small town and wonderful characters and friendships. The Raider brothers are fun, cheeky and loyal and I was so glad Sammy the Seal made an appearance.

I can’t wait to see what’s in store for us when it comes to Kai and Harper.