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Swift Rivers #1
The Moments You Were Mine
When she’s the only promise that matters…
PARKER
There are only two things I’ve ever wanted—a career as a Navy SEAL and Fallon.
When a promise prevents me from making her mine, I dedicate my life to the Teams and swear off all relationships. Until disaster flips my world.
Just as I inherit a little boy, Fallon’s life is threatened, and suddenly, the oaths I made seem inconsequential. The only things that matter are making her mine and keeping her and Theo safe.
FALLON
I once believed Parker and I were soulmates. But after a stinging rejection, I get the hint and move on.
When my new relationship blows up and brings trouble to the ranch, it’s Parker who arrives to protect me. Watching as he cuddles the child he brings with him has all my unrequited dreams rushing back.
Except offering myself to Parker now risks more than a broken heart. It could have deadly consequences… for all of us.
With “My Wife” swoon, this small-town, single-dad spin-off of the fan-favorite Hatley Family series is a chemistry-filled kiss to your heart. Get this broody bodyguard, standalone HEA today.
PARKER
There are only two things I’ve ever wanted—a career as a Navy SEAL and Fallon.
When a promise prevents me from making her mine, I dedicate my life to the Teams and swear off all relationships. Until disaster flips my world.
Just as I inherit a little boy, Fallon’s life is threatened, and suddenly, the oaths I made seem inconsequential. The only things that matter are making her mine and keeping her and Theo safe.
FALLON
I once believed Parker and I were soulmates. But after a stinging rejection, I get the hint and move on.
When my new relationship blows up and brings trouble to the ranch, it’s Parker who arrives to protect me. Watching as he cuddles the child he brings with him has all my unrequited dreams rushing back.
Except offering myself to Parker now risks more than a broken heart. It could have deadly consequences… for all of us.
With “My Wife” swoon, this small-town, single-dad spin-off of the fan-favorite Hatley Family series is a chemistry-filled kiss to your heart. Get this broody bodyguard, standalone HEA today.
482 pages, Kindle Edition
Published August 13, 2025
772 people are currently reading
1355 people want to read
About the author
L.J. Evans
34 books1,340 followersAward-winning author LJ Evans lives in Northern California with her husband, child, and the three terrors called cats. She's written compulsively since she was a little girl, often getting derailed from what she should be doing by a song lyric that sends her scrambling to jot a scene down.
A former first-grade teacher, she now spends her days deep in the pages of romance and mystery with a bit of the otherworldly thrown in. Her favorite characters are those who live resiliently—stubbornly and triumphantly getting through this wild ride called life with hope, love, and found families guiding the way.
Her novels have won multiple industry awards, including CHARMING AND THE CHERRY BLOSSOM which was Writer’s Digest’s Self-Published E-book Romance of the Year.
Find out more about LJ and her books at www.ljevansbooks.com
A former first-grade teacher, she now spends her days deep in the pages of romance and mystery with a bit of the otherworldly thrown in. Her favorite characters are those who live resiliently—stubbornly and triumphantly getting through this wild ride called life with hope, love, and found families guiding the way.
Her novels have won multiple industry awards, including CHARMING AND THE CHERRY BLOSSOM which was Writer’s Digest’s Self-Published E-book Romance of the Year.
Find out more about LJ and her books at www.ljevansbooks.com
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July 29, 2025
The Moments You Were Mine is a stand alone, spin off from L.J. Evans’s Hatley Family series. I was so excited that Fallon and Parker were getting a book! There are so many delicious twists and turns in this. It kept me glued to the pages until I reached “The End!”
First, I loved the way each chapter started out, giving us just a little peek into the past that Fallon and Parker shared. Fallon Marquess-Harrington is twenty four years old in the present day. We get some history when the book starts out. Fallon has always had such a big crush on Parker who is five years older than she is. He was her hero. He never hinted that he returned her feelings so they were just best friends. Once Parker left for the Navy, she would have to wait until he returned from his missions but she was always the first person he contacted when he got home. Of course, Fallon chose to go to college in San Diego where Parker was stationed. When Fallon finally accepts that Parker is never going to change his mind about her, she decides to move on. Only the person she chose turned out to be the worst choice possible.
Parker Steele made a promise to both his father and to Fallon’s when he was just a teenager. That he would always protect Fallon, and that he would also keep away from her since her crush on him was widely known. He threw himself into his Navy Seal training, becoming an elite warrior, whose team was constantly in demand. He was sometimes gone for months at a time, always knowing he might not come home. For this reason, Parker stayed away from relationships. In truth, his heart belonged to Fallon. Even though he could never give it to her because of the promise he made. And, because it wasn’t fair to commit to someone and then to have to constantly leave them at home, alone.
When Fallon is twenty four, she graduates with her masters degree and at the same time, her life implodes. At the same time, so does Parker’s when he becomes guardian to an adorable little four year old boy who lost his parents. Fallon is in danger and he needs to be with her, while also trying to learn how to become a father.
It was clear from the beginning that these two were meant to be together. But there are so many events in their pasts that make everything so complicated. Once Fallon is back on her ranch, things went from bad to worse as the danger became more severe. Parker is pulled in so many directions, trying to protect the people he loves, and also to try to figure out what his future will look like.
This book kept me flipping the pages. Once I got to a certain point, I knew I would just have to keep going to matter what, because I wouldn’t be able to go to bed without knowing how everything turned out. L.J. Evans did it again, weaving together a beautiful love story along with nail biting suspense. This was an amazing book and I can’t wait to see what she does next.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
First, I loved the way each chapter started out, giving us just a little peek into the past that Fallon and Parker shared. Fallon Marquess-Harrington is twenty four years old in the present day. We get some history when the book starts out. Fallon has always had such a big crush on Parker who is five years older than she is. He was her hero. He never hinted that he returned her feelings so they were just best friends. Once Parker left for the Navy, she would have to wait until he returned from his missions but she was always the first person he contacted when he got home. Of course, Fallon chose to go to college in San Diego where Parker was stationed. When Fallon finally accepts that Parker is never going to change his mind about her, she decides to move on. Only the person she chose turned out to be the worst choice possible.
Parker Steele made a promise to both his father and to Fallon’s when he was just a teenager. That he would always protect Fallon, and that he would also keep away from her since her crush on him was widely known. He threw himself into his Navy Seal training, becoming an elite warrior, whose team was constantly in demand. He was sometimes gone for months at a time, always knowing he might not come home. For this reason, Parker stayed away from relationships. In truth, his heart belonged to Fallon. Even though he could never give it to her because of the promise he made. And, because it wasn’t fair to commit to someone and then to have to constantly leave them at home, alone.
When Fallon is twenty four, she graduates with her masters degree and at the same time, her life implodes. At the same time, so does Parker’s when he becomes guardian to an adorable little four year old boy who lost his parents. Fallon is in danger and he needs to be with her, while also trying to learn how to become a father.
It was clear from the beginning that these two were meant to be together. But there are so many events in their pasts that make everything so complicated. Once Fallon is back on her ranch, things went from bad to worse as the danger became more severe. Parker is pulled in so many directions, trying to protect the people he loves, and also to try to figure out what his future will look like.
This book kept me flipping the pages. Once I got to a certain point, I knew I would just have to keep going to matter what, because I wouldn’t be able to go to bed without knowing how everything turned out. L.J. Evans did it again, weaving together a beautiful love story along with nail biting suspense. This was an amazing book and I can’t wait to see what she does next.
For more about this book and so many others, come and visit me at Carol's Crazy Bookish World.
https://www.facebook.com/groups/Carol...
August 14, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
I devoured this book 👏🏼🌾. I literally lost sleep because I could not put it down—every chapter pulled me in deeper 📖✨. LJ Evans completely nailed the single dad trope 🥵, giving us a hero who was both swoony and real, and the relationship development had my attention locked in from the start 🤌🏼
But what really made this stand out for me was the suspense woven through the romance 👏🏼 I’m a mystery girlie by heart so when mystery meets romance… CHEFS KISS 🤌🏼🤍 The cowgirl ranch setting added a cozy small town charm that balanced the edge-of-your-seat moments perfectly 🐎🏞️
This is the kind of story that sticks with you after you finish—equal parts thrilling, heartfelt, & unforgettable🤎
I devoured this book 👏🏼🌾. I literally lost sleep because I could not put it down—every chapter pulled me in deeper 📖✨. LJ Evans completely nailed the single dad trope 🥵, giving us a hero who was both swoony and real, and the relationship development had my attention locked in from the start 🤌🏼
But what really made this stand out for me was the suspense woven through the romance 👏🏼 I’m a mystery girlie by heart so when mystery meets romance… CHEFS KISS 🤌🏼🤍 The cowgirl ranch setting added a cozy small town charm that balanced the edge-of-your-seat moments perfectly 🐎🏞️
This is the kind of story that sticks with you after you finish—equal parts thrilling, heartfelt, & unforgettable🤎
August 25, 2025
* 3.75⭐️3🌶️
* A romantic suspense novel about Fallon, who has always loved Parker, but a promise between their fathers prevents them from being together. When Fallon's life is threatened, the promise becomes irrelevant, and Parker, a Navy SEAL, must become her protector. The story follows their journey to safety and love, featuring elements like a brooding bodyguard, a small-town setting, a single-dad plot, and a dual point-of-view (POV) that adds to the angst and chemistry.
* Read if you like: navy seal MMC, single dad, small town ranch, second chance, deeply emotional, complex storyline, dual timelines, tension/angst, slow burn - 46%, mystery/suspense
* A romantic suspense novel about Fallon, who has always loved Parker, but a promise between their fathers prevents them from being together. When Fallon's life is threatened, the promise becomes irrelevant, and Parker, a Navy SEAL, must become her protector. The story follows their journey to safety and love, featuring elements like a brooding bodyguard, a small-town setting, a single-dad plot, and a dual point-of-view (POV) that adds to the angst and chemistry.
* Read if you like: navy seal MMC, single dad, small town ranch, second chance, deeply emotional, complex storyline, dual timelines, tension/angst, slow burn - 46%, mystery/suspense
August 13, 2025
4.5 stars!
If you love a small town cowboy romantic suspense with an age gap and “my wife” vibes like Devney Perry or Mariana Zapata, you have to read 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙈𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙨 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙒𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙈𝙞𝙣𝙚 by LJ Evans! Fallon, the FMC, has had it 𝘣𝘢𝘥 for her childhood family friend turned bodyguard and Navy SEAL, Parker, for as long as she can remember and no matter how hard she tries he continues to turn her down. When situations arise that bring Fallon and Parker, along with Theo, the 4 year old Parker is now a single guardian to, return to her family’s ranch and resort together, that she is now the owner of, they have to figure out who is trying to ruin the ranch and endanger Fallon and her family. The tension and build up will have you in a white knuckle grip! The way Fallon and Parker purposefully poke each other to get arise out of one another brings for some humor in this tension filled book. Watching Fallon and Parker’s love grow for Theo and doing all they can to help him feel love and safe make for some of the best moments. I loved the dual timelines that provided a bit of texts between Fallon and Parker over the years and how their friendship had evolved. This book is a slow burn but let me just say, when it finally boils, it creates fireworks! Parker uses his broody Navy SEAL characteristics and has quite a dirty mouth and attention to all details, of Fallon! 😉All I can say is this book has taught me that if your partner does not protect and care for you like Parker does for Fallon, then you need a new one! 😂
If you love a small town cowboy romantic suspense with an age gap and “my wife” vibes like Devney Perry or Mariana Zapata, you have to read 𝙏𝙝𝙚 𝙈𝙤𝙢𝙚𝙣𝙩𝙨 𝙔𝙤𝙪 𝙒𝙚𝙧𝙚 𝙈𝙞𝙣𝙚 by LJ Evans! Fallon, the FMC, has had it 𝘣𝘢𝘥 for her childhood family friend turned bodyguard and Navy SEAL, Parker, for as long as she can remember and no matter how hard she tries he continues to turn her down. When situations arise that bring Fallon and Parker, along with Theo, the 4 year old Parker is now a single guardian to, return to her family’s ranch and resort together, that she is now the owner of, they have to figure out who is trying to ruin the ranch and endanger Fallon and her family. The tension and build up will have you in a white knuckle grip! The way Fallon and Parker purposefully poke each other to get arise out of one another brings for some humor in this tension filled book. Watching Fallon and Parker’s love grow for Theo and doing all they can to help him feel love and safe make for some of the best moments. I loved the dual timelines that provided a bit of texts between Fallon and Parker over the years and how their friendship had evolved. This book is a slow burn but let me just say, when it finally boils, it creates fireworks! Parker uses his broody Navy SEAL characteristics and has quite a dirty mouth and attention to all details, of Fallon! 😉All I can say is this book has taught me that if your partner does not protect and care for you like Parker does for Fallon, then you need a new one! 😂
August 27, 2025
This was a great fast paced romantic suspense. Loved the friends to lovers. Will they or won’t they. It’s always been you vibes. Cute story.
March 13, 2026
4.25⭐️
August 20, 2025
Beautiful Story
This one took us on a major roller coaster as they had years of friendship to work through as well as Parker having to work through all the barriers he had placed on himself to not be with her in a romantic way. He had fallen for her years ago but didn’t believe he could have a life with her and still follow his heart career wise.
She got hurt big time and that all changed for him. It was so incredibly beautiful watching him shift what mattered most to him and bring his love to her.
I loved seeing her mama find happiness again also! That was a nice addition to the story 🥰
So many twists happened in this story and it was really neat how LJ tied Fallon’s story into Rafe’s story and tied up some loose ends there.
This book will tug at every heartstring you have and have you biting your nails to see how it’s all wrapped up. I just kept telling myself that it will end happily even if we have to have some nerves along the way lol
These two were absolutely meant to find their path to each other as romantic partners but they had to live a little and miss each other a little first 🥰🥰
This one took us on a major roller coaster as they had years of friendship to work through as well as Parker having to work through all the barriers he had placed on himself to not be with her in a romantic way. He had fallen for her years ago but didn’t believe he could have a life with her and still follow his heart career wise.
She got hurt big time and that all changed for him. It was so incredibly beautiful watching him shift what mattered most to him and bring his love to her.
I loved seeing her mama find happiness again also! That was a nice addition to the story 🥰
So many twists happened in this story and it was really neat how LJ tied Fallon’s story into Rafe’s story and tied up some loose ends there.
This book will tug at every heartstring you have and have you biting your nails to see how it’s all wrapped up. I just kept telling myself that it will end happily even if we have to have some nerves along the way lol
These two were absolutely meant to find their path to each other as romantic partners but they had to live a little and miss each other a little first 🥰🥰
August 2, 2025
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced review copy. My opinions are my own and freely expressed. 4 STARS. I thoroughly enjoyed this book and it has further solidified that I MUST keep reading more romantic suspense. The tension was SO GOOD. Comes out on Aug. 13th and will be on KU - absolutely recommend!
August 27, 2025
I loved the sneak peek of Fallon and Parker at the end of the Hatley family series, but I wasn't prepared for how much I would love the entire book. It was always you and friends to lovers are my two favorite tropes, and throw in fake marriage that isn't fake at all, I was a goner. Parker was the perfect protector, with Fallon as his first thought despite the distance he'd forced between them.
Fallon was stubborn and strong and I loved how she wore her heart on her sleeve when it came to Parker but didn't back down for less than all of him. The suspense was top tier as usual and I can't wait for what the next book will bring!
Fallon was stubborn and strong and I loved how she wore her heart on her sleeve when it came to Parker but didn't back down for less than all of him. The suspense was top tier as usual and I can't wait for what the next book will bring!
September 21, 2025
Continuation of The Last Dance You Saved
DNF. This is not a standalone but a continuation of The Last Dance You Saved. There are many references to the plot, characters, back stories, motivations and threats / villains from the earlier book . If you have not read the preceding book, it's fairly confusing. (I had not read the earlier book and did not have the context.)
DNF. This is not a standalone but a continuation of The Last Dance You Saved. There are many references to the plot, characters, back stories, motivations and threats / villains from the earlier book . If you have not read the preceding book, it's fairly confusing. (I had not read the earlier book and did not have the context.)
September 9, 2025
My first LJ Evans book and it brought me back to my love of romantic suspense! There’s something about that balance of suspense and mystery moments with the romance. This is a standalone spinoff but I would recommend reading the main series before you read this one. I felt out of the loop during some of the discussions and danger but I still enjoyed it. There are elements of suspense throughout the book where you’re trying to figure out who the suspects are and how it all ties together. Add in the childhood best friends and new single dad and it was very easy to read.
Read this if you’re in the mood for…
- romantic suspense
- military MMC
- childhood best friends
- forced proximity
- marriage of convenience (but is it really)
- single dad/guardian
I really enjoyed on the suspense was woven throughout this book! It kept me turning the pages while also waiting so impatiently for them to finally say “f it”. The text messages at the beginning of every chapter also added so much insight into their relationship. If you’re looking for more romantic suspense books, I’d recommend it!
Read this if you’re in the mood for…
- romantic suspense
- military MMC
- childhood best friends
- forced proximity
- marriage of convenience (but is it really)
- single dad/guardian
I really enjoyed on the suspense was woven throughout this book! It kept me turning the pages while also waiting so impatiently for them to finally say “f it”. The text messages at the beginning of every chapter also added so much insight into their relationship. If you’re looking for more romantic suspense books, I’d recommend it!
July 23, 2025
Parker always cared for Fallon but his duty to the military took precedence. When he was home, he was always there for her but couldn’t give her more than friendship. When tragedy and a turn of events send him back home, he knows pushing Fallon away is no longer an option. This begins when they’re younger showing the progression of their friends to lovers connection & romance. What a rollercoaster of emotions this delves into from loss, wanting and protecting those that truly matter. A beautiful story that pulls at your heart but don’t worry as there is also plenty of action and mystery too. This has a little of everything. Fall in love with this Navy Seal and his slow burn Romance. Told in first person and dual POV.
July 25, 2025
OUTSTANDING!
I have been eagerly awaiting this spin-off series and The Moments You Were Mine since we met Fallon and Parker in The Last Dance You Saved. LJ Evans did not disappoint! I was immediately drawn into Fallon and Parker’s story, falling more in love with both characters and with their beautiful friendship with every page I turned.
Fallon is one of my favorite female characters ever. She has so much inner strength, but also so much vulnerability. She has carried so much pain from her youth, but she’s finally healing from the past, moving into a future she was destined for. Fallon has been in love with Navy SEAL Parker since she was just a girl, while Parker’s lifelong dream of being a SEAL and his promise to protect Fallon have kept their relationship strictly in the friend zone. When Theo comes into his life, we finally start to see the real Parker, who he was truly meant to be —I couldn’t possibly love him more.
This story has the most fabulous slow burn—the yearning is so wonderfully intense. Combine that yearning with a beautifully-written love story, throw in a significant amount of danger and some truly nail-biting suspense, and you have an outstanding, Five-Star story. I can’t recommend this book enough.
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced review copy. This is my honest opinion.
I have been eagerly awaiting this spin-off series and The Moments You Were Mine since we met Fallon and Parker in The Last Dance You Saved. LJ Evans did not disappoint! I was immediately drawn into Fallon and Parker’s story, falling more in love with both characters and with their beautiful friendship with every page I turned.
Fallon is one of my favorite female characters ever. She has so much inner strength, but also so much vulnerability. She has carried so much pain from her youth, but she’s finally healing from the past, moving into a future she was destined for. Fallon has been in love with Navy SEAL Parker since she was just a girl, while Parker’s lifelong dream of being a SEAL and his promise to protect Fallon have kept their relationship strictly in the friend zone. When Theo comes into his life, we finally start to see the real Parker, who he was truly meant to be —I couldn’t possibly love him more.
This story has the most fabulous slow burn—the yearning is so wonderfully intense. Combine that yearning with a beautifully-written love story, throw in a significant amount of danger and some truly nail-biting suspense, and you have an outstanding, Five-Star story. I can’t recommend this book enough.
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced review copy. This is my honest opinion.
August 16, 2025
Book talk raved about it and it’s on Kindle unlimited so I tried it out. It was a cute story but got old after a while didn’t need to be 450 pages was kind of silly. I don’t think I would recommend as a must read book probably more like 2.5 to 2.75 stars.
July 25, 2025
I had the pleasure to read the prequel and I knew straight away from the first chapter this book was going to be amazing. The longing and denied feelings between Fallon and Parker stood out straight away, and with the addition of little Theo everything unravelled in the best of ways. I wasn’t expecting to get so emotional about a contemporary romance but the author really made the feelings that the characters were experiencing stand out. The added mystery and thriller elements made this book unputdownable. This is not your standard modern cowboy Romance, it’s a story of duty family and love.
March 3, 2026
I fell for another TikTok recommendation… and I regret it. 😩
The book actually started out strong. I loved getting the flashbacks of Parker and Fallon’s friendship. But as the story progressed, the timeline started jumping around so much that it became distracting instead of impactful. That was my first red flag.
Then came all the constant references to the past, which I’m assuming is her parents’ book. If you haven’t read their story like I hadn’t, prepare to be confused. Every single chapter references events from that book and drops a ton of names with little context. It honestly felt less like a standalone and more like a continuation of a previous story, and I was left feeling frustrated instead of invested.
Another big issue for me was the excessive inner dialogue. The characters would be mid-conversation, and suddenly we’d get two or three pages of internal thoughts. By the time it circled back to the dialogue, I had forgotten what they were even talking about. It completely killed the pacing.
On top of that, this book was unnecessarily long. The scenes that should have been longer felt rushed, while others dragged on. And it felt like the author couldn’t commit to one or two tropes. Instead, it was packed with drama from every direction, which made the story feel cluttered rather than cohesive.
Overall, I was really disappointed. I wanted to love it, especially after the strong start, but it just didn’t deliver for me.
The book actually started out strong. I loved getting the flashbacks of Parker and Fallon’s friendship. But as the story progressed, the timeline started jumping around so much that it became distracting instead of impactful. That was my first red flag.
Then came all the constant references to the past, which I’m assuming is her parents’ book. If you haven’t read their story like I hadn’t, prepare to be confused. Every single chapter references events from that book and drops a ton of names with little context. It honestly felt less like a standalone and more like a continuation of a previous story, and I was left feeling frustrated instead of invested.
Another big issue for me was the excessive inner dialogue. The characters would be mid-conversation, and suddenly we’d get two or three pages of internal thoughts. By the time it circled back to the dialogue, I had forgotten what they were even talking about. It completely killed the pacing.
On top of that, this book was unnecessarily long. The scenes that should have been longer felt rushed, while others dragged on. And it felt like the author couldn’t commit to one or two tropes. Instead, it was packed with drama from every direction, which made the story feel cluttered rather than cohesive.
Overall, I was really disappointed. I wanted to love it, especially after the strong start, but it just didn’t deliver for me.
August 12, 2025
LJ just keeps getting better and better! The Moments You Were Mine was a fast paced story expertly weaved together with who done it suspense, twists and turns, and soulmates finally coming together. Bravo and all the stars!!!
Fallon and Parker have always been meant for one another. Watching how their lives intersect both in the past and present was amazing. Parker is a highly trained navy SEAL who values his promises. Those promises are what kept him from acting on his feelings for years. He's protective, loyal, and has a big heart. Fallon has always felt like an obligation. She knew she was loved, but unfortunate family mistakes made her feel like a burden. Her heart was simply the best! I loved how fierce and strong she was, putting everyone above herself.
Little Theo was absolutely adorable and added another layer to this amazing story. I love how Parker really sees Fallon and loves her with everything in him. I love how Fallon fell for not only Parker, but Theo too. Their little family made my heart so happy. And seeing the rest of their families come together was beautiful. All the questions were answered and everyone gets the healing they needed. Beautiful!
The suspense and how everything was executed blew me away. This story was unputdownable, full of longing, sweetness and love. I'm so happy that Fallon and Parker got their HEA.
ARC review.
Fallon and Parker have always been meant for one another. Watching how their lives intersect both in the past and present was amazing. Parker is a highly trained navy SEAL who values his promises. Those promises are what kept him from acting on his feelings for years. He's protective, loyal, and has a big heart. Fallon has always felt like an obligation. She knew she was loved, but unfortunate family mistakes made her feel like a burden. Her heart was simply the best! I loved how fierce and strong she was, putting everyone above herself.
Little Theo was absolutely adorable and added another layer to this amazing story. I love how Parker really sees Fallon and loves her with everything in him. I love how Fallon fell for not only Parker, but Theo too. Their little family made my heart so happy. And seeing the rest of their families come together was beautiful. All the questions were answered and everyone gets the healing they needed. Beautiful!
The suspense and how everything was executed blew me away. This story was unputdownable, full of longing, sweetness and love. I'm so happy that Fallon and Parker got their HEA.
ARC review.
July 31, 2025
An unputdownable blend of soul-searing chemistry, witty banter, heart pounding suspense, and red hot steam. First of all, Parker is EVERYTHING. I love his personality, strength, courage, and especially his heart. Fallon was so sassy, caring, smart, funny, filter free, and loving. They were the perfect and I mean PERFECT couple. The sexual TENSION between these two is delicious, crackling with chemistry and waiting for the perfect moment to combust. I loved every bit of it. Parker is immediately going to the top of the book boyfriends list. I can't deal. I love this man. When I say this is a book that needs to be read.....YOU NEED TO READ THIS BOOK!!!
September 18, 2025
This was a beautifully written romantic suspense from LJ Evans. But am I even surprised? Not at all. When I look at my list of all of my favorite authors, she is on there.
I could not wait for Parker and Fallon’s story. I knew there was going to be lots of sexual tension. There definitely was…and then some. The suspense in this story kept me on my toes. The author does a fabulous job at dropping clues along the way, making you guess who the bad guy is.
As I read this book, I envisioned a movie playing out in front of me. Descriptions so vividly written, emotions so lovingly penned, and the story so perfectly done. *chef’s kiss*
The characters…strong, resilient, they protect hard and love even harder.
The story…beautiful, suspenseful, emotion-packed, satisfying in all the ways.
The author…incredibly talented, poetic, an automatic 1-click for me.
To say I loved this book would be an understatement. I can’t recommend it enough.
I could not wait for Parker and Fallon’s story. I knew there was going to be lots of sexual tension. There definitely was…and then some. The suspense in this story kept me on my toes. The author does a fabulous job at dropping clues along the way, making you guess who the bad guy is.
As I read this book, I envisioned a movie playing out in front of me. Descriptions so vividly written, emotions so lovingly penned, and the story so perfectly done. *chef’s kiss*
The characters…strong, resilient, they protect hard and love even harder.
The story…beautiful, suspenseful, emotion-packed, satisfying in all the ways.
The author…incredibly talented, poetic, an automatic 1-click for me.
To say I loved this book would be an understatement. I can’t recommend it enough.
August 10, 2025
I’ve been anticipating Fallon and Parker’s story and boy did it hit the mark. Parker and Fallon were made for each other even though Parker tried his hardest to deny it. I do love his protectiveness, how he refuses to show fear, and his pure love for Fallon, Theo, and the baby. Parker stepping up for everyone just made my heart so happy. I love that Fallon always wants to help other feel like they are not alone since that is they way she felt her who life, even if it weren’t true. Fallon is so protective over the ones she loves and like Parker she also refuses to show her fear even if she is terrified. I didn’t want to put this book down because it was so addicting. This book was full of banter, mystery, and suspense. It will keep you on the edge of your seat. I can’t wait to listen to this on audio. I feel like it’s going to hit differently and I’m here for it.
July 26, 2025
Thank you to the publisher for an advanced review copy. My opinions are my own and freely expressed.
I’ve been waiting to meet Fallon and Parker for a while now and LJ Evans did not disappoint. The care, and long lasting love between them both was beautiful to read. The snippets of past conversations wove wonderfully into those special moments that proved they understood each other, and that the childhood crushes developed into a deep and meaningful partnership. With the awesome additions of Theo and a splash of suspense, I could not put this down- definitely a page turner! Thank you LJ, for giving us this spin-off family. can’t wait to read the next one.
I’ve been waiting to meet Fallon and Parker for a while now and LJ Evans did not disappoint. The care, and long lasting love between them both was beautiful to read. The snippets of past conversations wove wonderfully into those special moments that proved they understood each other, and that the childhood crushes developed into a deep and meaningful partnership. With the awesome additions of Theo and a splash of suspense, I could not put this down- definitely a page turner! Thank you LJ, for giving us this spin-off family. can’t wait to read the next one.
August 13, 2025
The Moments You Were Mine is a sweet and spicy thriller that left me smiling after one treacherous, heart-pounding ride. It has all of my favorite elements of LJ Evans' signature storytelling with a twist that hits me in my favorite romance trope spot. I can honestly say that Fallon and Parker's story was everything I needed to read and so much more.
Having met Fallon and Parker in an earlier book, I knew that these two determined, focused, and very stubborn individuals would make for an exciting tale. I was not disappointed. Their commitment to their individual dreams/life plans, family, and to each other create the very obstacles that impede them on the way to their happy ever after. Their passion for life, family, and each other are things that bring them together with the vow to hold on their happy ever after.
For readers who are new to reading LJ Evans, the Moments You Were Mine is a wonderful place to learn how completely and beauitfully she can pen a romantic suspense novel. For those who have already experienced her genius, there is a wonderful blend of the familiar and new to remind us why we keep reading her exquisite stories.
Having met Fallon and Parker in an earlier book, I knew that these two determined, focused, and very stubborn individuals would make for an exciting tale. I was not disappointed. Their commitment to their individual dreams/life plans, family, and to each other create the very obstacles that impede them on the way to their happy ever after. Their passion for life, family, and each other are things that bring them together with the vow to hold on their happy ever after.
For readers who are new to reading LJ Evans, the Moments You Were Mine is a wonderful place to learn how completely and beauitfully she can pen a romantic suspense novel. For those who have already experienced her genius, there is a wonderful blend of the familiar and new to remind us why we keep reading her exquisite stories.
August 14, 2025
I did not want this book to end. It was so good!
September 22, 2025
This was such a great love story! The mystery mixed into it was a nice addition and wasn’t predictable. Will definitely be reading more by this author.
July 29, 2025
I think this is my new favorite book from LJ. It has everything I love in a romance book, small town, single dad, suspense and friends to lovers.
Parker and Fallon grew up together, kind of, and have been friends since. Each also had more than friends feelings but refused to let each other know.
But when Fallon is in danger, Parker drops everything and runs to protect her. I love how protective he is, not only Fallon but also Will’s son Theo, who he is now guardian of. Even if he thinks he’s not dad or husband material, he is the epitome.
I highly recommend this book, it’s a 10 star read.
Parker and Fallon grew up together, kind of, and have been friends since. Each also had more than friends feelings but refused to let each other know.
But when Fallon is in danger, Parker drops everything and runs to protect her. I love how protective he is, not only Fallon but also Will’s son Theo, who he is now guardian of. Even if he thinks he’s not dad or husband material, he is the epitome.
I highly recommend this book, it’s a 10 star read.
August 1, 2025
I'm lucky enough to be on LJs ARC team.
First, LJs playlist for The Moments You Were Mine is spot on and invokes all the feels of each chapter.
Second, the title is perfect. I love all the past snippets that highlight Parker and Fallon's “moments” that obviously led to them being made for each other.
Third, the combination of romance and suspense is why I love LJs writing.
First, LJs playlist for The Moments You Were Mine is spot on and invokes all the feels of each chapter.
Second, the title is perfect. I love all the past snippets that highlight Parker and Fallon's “moments” that obviously led to them being made for each other.
Third, the combination of romance and suspense is why I love LJs writing.
August 23, 2025
This book started off fun and interesting and then by about 35% i was sooooo over the repetitive inner dialogue of these characters. wow. the author beat home some points so hard it was infuriating. Looking back I should have stopped reading but I kept going. If the author could trust the reader to remember basic facts this could have been a great book.
August 13, 2025
Gosh what a book! Fallon and Parker’s friendship since youth is unbreakable and for a variety of reasons Parker doesn’t want to cross the friendship line into something more. The beginning of the book really gave me time to get to know Fallon and Parker and why they are the way they are. The text messages at the beginning of each chapter also laid the foundation for their relationship and I just loved being able to glimpse into their past a bit more. Parker is the ultimate alpha male (he’s a Navy SEAL) but has such a soft side when it comes to Fallon. Fallon is no damsel in distress in this romantic suspense and does not need “Frogman” to rescue her….I loved her independence mixed with a bit of stubbornness. So many bits of life advice and wisdom in this one too but my favorite is that sometimes the thing we don’t want (or don’t think we want) is the thing that completes us. Absolutely loved this book!
August 13, 2025
I absolutely loved this book!! There was so much inside, everything you could want. There was drama, action, steam, romance, mystery, and great emotion. I loved Parker and Fallon's chemistry. I enjoyed the angst between them, and then when Parker finally sees the light lol. I loved Fallon's strength and might. Great story and hints at the next story.
March 6, 2026
Finally, it ends. And no, that’s not happiness—it’s relief.
If you’re planning to read this book, do yourself a favor and read the Hartleys series first. Otherwise, you might end up like me: confused for the first 40% of the story and increasingly irritated.
Fallon’s backstory is already complicated enough, but Parker… good grief. I remember reading another book by this author before and disliking the trope where the hero is still hung up on his dead ex-wife. And here we are again.
What makes it worse is that this book was written recently, yet Parker has apparently slept with countless women and treats sex as nothing more than “tension relief”—all while acknowledging that he has been in love with Fallon forever. So he’s perfectly capable of sleeping around, but somehow keeps Fallon at arm’s length. Meanwhile, Fallon has only ever been with one man. The double standard is exhausting.
And the reason he keeps rejecting Fallon over and over again? A promise to his dad. And her dad. And another promise to his late grandfather on the man’s deathbed.
I mean… dude.
He acts like a jealous jerk toward every man who gets close to Fallon, yet refuses to actually be with her. No wonder she eventually builds an emotional wall. And the funniest part? When Parker finally realizes he’s been an idiot, his dad and her dad aren’t even surprised by his feelings. Not even a little.
Seriously, Parker. You’re an idiot.
The suspense surrounding Fallon’s past is also strange. There are too many “surprise” connections popping up, and somehow she ends up getting the worst possible outcome from the revenge plot—yet the story still manages to make it feel like it’s not even about her. I genuinely don’t understand how that happened.
Then there’s the surprise pregnancy, which completely broke my brain timeline-wise.
If I followed the timeline correctly, Fallon last slept with JJ more than 31 days earlier. Parker even mentions something like, “Theo has been in my care for 31 days,” and Fallon was arrested around the same time Theo moved in with him. Yet when Fallon finds out she’s pregnant, she says she’s five weeks along.
That makes no sense.
If she’s five weeks pregnant, conception would have been about three weeks earlier—by which point she had already moved back to the ranch. On top of that, she was on her period at the time of her arrest. So… what exactly is the timeline here? If the baby was conceived five weeks ago, she should technically be about seven weeks along.
Maybe I’m overthinking it, but basic research would have helped. What do I know though—I’ve only been pregnant twice.
Another thing that didn’t work for me was Parker’s sudden emotional turnaround after Fallon’s accident. He goes from zero to one hundred overnight, constantly repeating that he’s been an idiot. While that may be true, the speed of his transformation feels rushed and anticlimactic.
And honestly? This book is just way too long.
If you’re planning to read this book, do yourself a favor and read the Hartleys series first. Otherwise, you might end up like me: confused for the first 40% of the story and increasingly irritated.
Fallon’s backstory is already complicated enough, but Parker… good grief. I remember reading another book by this author before and disliking the trope where the hero is still hung up on his dead ex-wife. And here we are again.
What makes it worse is that this book was written recently, yet Parker has apparently slept with countless women and treats sex as nothing more than “tension relief”—all while acknowledging that he has been in love with Fallon forever. So he’s perfectly capable of sleeping around, but somehow keeps Fallon at arm’s length. Meanwhile, Fallon has only ever been with one man. The double standard is exhausting.
And the reason he keeps rejecting Fallon over and over again? A promise to his dad. And her dad. And another promise to his late grandfather on the man’s deathbed.
I mean… dude.
He acts like a jealous jerk toward every man who gets close to Fallon, yet refuses to actually be with her. No wonder she eventually builds an emotional wall. And the funniest part? When Parker finally realizes he’s been an idiot, his dad and her dad aren’t even surprised by his feelings. Not even a little.
Seriously, Parker. You’re an idiot.
The suspense surrounding Fallon’s past is also strange. There are too many “surprise” connections popping up, and somehow she ends up getting the worst possible outcome from the revenge plot—yet the story still manages to make it feel like it’s not even about her. I genuinely don’t understand how that happened.
Then there’s the surprise pregnancy, which completely broke my brain timeline-wise.
If I followed the timeline correctly, Fallon last slept with JJ more than 31 days earlier. Parker even mentions something like, “Theo has been in my care for 31 days,” and Fallon was arrested around the same time Theo moved in with him. Yet when Fallon finds out she’s pregnant, she says she’s five weeks along.
That makes no sense.
If she’s five weeks pregnant, conception would have been about three weeks earlier—by which point she had already moved back to the ranch. On top of that, she was on her period at the time of her arrest. So… what exactly is the timeline here? If the baby was conceived five weeks ago, she should technically be about seven weeks along.
Maybe I’m overthinking it, but basic research would have helped. What do I know though—I’ve only been pregnant twice.
Another thing that didn’t work for me was Parker’s sudden emotional turnaround after Fallon’s accident. He goes from zero to one hundred overnight, constantly repeating that he’s been an idiot. While that may be true, the speed of his transformation feels rushed and anticlimactic.
And honestly? This book is just way too long.
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