Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐✩ (4/5)

Hello friends! I just finished Guarded Dreams by L.J. Evans, and if you’re looking for a military romance with a soul-deep connection and a dash of second-chance magic, this one is absolutely worth picking up. I received this book as part of my Romance Reveal Book Club subscription, and I’m so glad I did-there’s something special about discovering a new-to-me author and falling in love with their characters.

Guarded Dreams kicks off with Eli, Mac, and Truck-three Military Academy guys expecting a laid-back summer painting their instructor’s beach house. Enter Ava, who at first glance seems like a rebellious kid hiding out at her dad’s place, but it quickly becomes clear she’s just as lost and hopeful as Eli. The chemistry between Eli and Ava is instant, and you can feel the push and pull as both try to stick to their carefully laid plans, Julliard for Ava, enlistment for Eli, even as one unforgettable kiss threatens to upend everything they thought they wanted.

When Ava’s dad comes looking for her, she’s gone in a flash, leaving Eli with nothing but memories and what-ifs. Fast forward four years, and fate brings them back together in a New York bar, where Ava’s voice on open mic night is unmistakable. The feelings between them are just as strong, and seeing them reconnect after years apart had me rooting for them all over again. Both have chased their dreams, but life hasn’t exactly made it easy, and watching them navigate the rocky road back to each other was both heartwarming and a little bit gut-wrenching.

As a military wife, I felt a deep connection to the military aspects of the story, but what really stood out to me was how music and lyrics are woven throughout the book. There’s even a Spotify playlist to listen to while you read, which I absolutely loved-it added another layer to the experience and made the emotions hit even harder. L.J. Evans’ writing is smooth and heartfelt, and she captures the highs and lows of chasing dreams, the ache of separation, and the hope that comes with second chances so beautifully.

This is the first book I’ve read from L.J. Evans, and I’m already planning to pick up the next in the series. There’s something so rewarding about reading indie-published books; it feels a bit like shopping local, and you can tell how much heart the author pours into every page.

If you love romances that tug at your heartstrings, with characters who fight for their dreams and each other, Guarded Dreams is one you’ll want to add to your shelf. Until next time, happy reading and don’t forget to check out that playlist for the full experience!