In "Forever Only Once," Carrie Ann Ryan introduces readers to a heartwarming and emotional story about overcoming past traumas and embracing the future. This romance novel marks the beginning of the "Promise Me" series, demonstrating Ryan's consistent ability to create deeply moving narratives intertwined with passion and healing. With its compelling characters and engaging storyline, the novel offers a profound exploration of love’s power to triumph over personal demons.

The story centers around Hazel, a woman grappling with the trauma of a violent incident in her past, which keeps her closed off from forming new relationships. Despite her reservations, she makes a step towards healing by visiting Crossroads, a charming small town, to plan her cousin's wedding. It is here that she meets, Rex, a brooding yet irresistibly compelling tattoo artist. Rex, battling his own past filled with loss and betrayal, finds in Hazel a kindred spirit. Despite their hesitations, a connection flourishes between them, illustrating the novel's core theme: the possibility of finding love and peace in the aftermath of chaos.

Ryan excels in portraying both Hazel and Rex’s psychological depth. Hazel's vulnerability and cautious optimism are poignantly described, making her a relatable protagonist. Her journey highlights a truth many can connect with—the idea that past scars do not dictate one’s future. Rex, on the other hand, is portrayed as more than just the stereotypical "tormented soul." His introspective nature and gradual opening, fostered by Hazel's influence, are well-developed, providing an appealing contrast to Hazel's character. Their romance unfolds gently, each moment of closeness and setback rendered with careful attention, enabling the reader to feel deeply invested in their relationship.

The small-town setting of Crossroads adds another layer of charm to the narrative. Ryan’s depiction of the town is vivid, painting a picture of a supportive and tight-knit community that plays a critical role in Hazel and Rex’s journey. This setting not only enriches the backdrop against which their story unfolds but also acts as a metaphor for sanctuary and belonging, which are central themes in the book.

Aside from the central romance, "Forever Only Once" is laced with subplots involving family dynamics and friendship, adding richness to the narrative. The secondary characters are well-drawn, each adding dimension to the main story and providing insights into the protagonists' lives. The interplay between these characters and the main couple adds a dynamic feel to the story, ensuring that it never loses its pace or emotional depth.

Ryan’s writing style is fluid and evocative, adept at capturing the nuances of emotional recovery and romance. Her ability to convey deep emotions without tipping into overt sentimentality is commendable. However, at times, the internal monologues of the characters can feel slightly repetitive, particularly concerning their doubts about the future. While these moments are essential for character development, they sometimes slow the narrative’s momentum.

One of the most noteworthy aspects of the novel is how it handles sensitive topics like trauma and mental health. Ryan approaches Hazel’s and Rex's issues with a careful, respectful touch, encouraging a compassionate understanding of mental health challenges. The portrayal of therapy and healing is realistic and hopeful, making it clear that recovery is often non-linear and fraught with setbacks, but also filled with moments of significant breakthrough and understanding.

In conclusion, "Forever Only Once" by Carrie Ann Ryan is a beautifully crafted romance that goes beyond the standard tropes of the genre to offer a meaningful exploration of recovery, love, and hope. Ryan’s portrayal of two people finding each other and themselves is both touching and inspiring, making it a recommended read for those who appreciate romances that offer both emotional depth and a satisfying conclusion. Consequently, the Promise Me series begins on a strong note, setting high expectations for subsequent installments. This book is a testament to the idea that sometimes, it only takes one person, one moment, or one place to change everything—and that forever might indeed start with only once.