I Promise to Be Better

By: Erinn Keala

Narrated by: Daphne Fields

Embark on an emotional rollercoaster with I Promise to Be Better, a riveting novel that unravels the complex love story of Emily and Shane. Teenage Emily, plagued by abandonment issues stemming from her parents’ failed marriage, finds desperately-needed comfort in Shane. Despite him being six years older, the pair form a hidden bond and fall madly in love. The story takes a dark turn as it delves into the intricate layers of a toxic relationship. Entering adulthood, Emily moves to a new country with Shane, who has enlisted in the Army.

Jealousy, infidelity, manipulation and abuse propel this narrative into a heart-wrenching exploration of love's darkest corners. Based on true events, this gripping tale is a poignant reflection of love’s destructive power and the empowering pursuit of self-discovery. Brace yourself for an intense journey through the complexities of love, and the resilience required when promises are put to the ultimate test.

** Content Warning: This book contains potentially triggering subject matter including manipulation, gaslighting, domestic abuse, and intimate partner violence. Please listen with care.

©2024 Erinn Keala (P)2025 Erinn Keala

Raw and honest

From the beginning to the very end, this story kept me listening, anxious awaiting to see how it would play out. It’s such a raw story of the abuses some people experience and the power of manipulation. My heart broke so many times over for Emily and made me want to hug her. At times, I felt overwhelmed just listening which speaks to level of storytelling Erinn brought to writing her story. I feel like I have a better understanding of abusive relationships and am better for having listened to this story. Share it with your friends, females, sisters, and anyone struggling, I know I will be for years to come.

Authentic and raw

This story is and heartbreaking. It goes undercover into a world of domestic abuse - mixed with an emotional coming of age experiences of being far away from home and living with the uncertainty of life as a young military spouse. While this story was hard to hear, it depicts an important picture of how a person can become entangled in a toxic relationship. The authors bravery in telling this story will give many others hope who find themselves in a similar situation.

Incredible story

What a gripping story. I literally couldn’t stop listening. The chosen narrator’s delivery was excellent. So well done!

A captivating storyline and look into the hidden world of domestic abuse.

This is a super well written book and great performance done by the reader. The main character is easy to love and you’ll find yourself wanting to read more to find out what happens to her. The content is heavy, but it’s an excellent look into the sometimes hidden world of domestic violence victims.

Well written, raw and honest- would definitely recommend to read!

I’m not much of a book person—I usually read about one or two books a year. But I would definitely recommend reading or listening to this one. It’s incredibly well-written, raw, and honest. A heartbreaking reality is that so many women have experienced what the author describes.

I have a friend who went through something similar, though she never shared much about it. After reading this book, I have a much clearer understanding of what she may have gone through.

Thank you for writing this and for helping others understand even a small part of what so many have endured.