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Forged of Steele #0.5
Never Too Late
Sienna and Dane Bradford's marriage has fallen apart and they're headed for divorce. Sienna decides to visit their vacation cabin in the mountains to gather her belongings. One last sojourn to revisit a place where they once knew love. She's barely arrived when Dane appears, surprised to see her as she is him. While they try to dance around what went wrong with their marriage, a sudden snowstorm traps them in the cabin.
Forced to face each other with no distractions, Sienna and Dane can't deny the spark that still sizzles between them. Slowly and surely, they begin to converse, trying to find out what happened. Why did a couple so in love suddenly no longer communicate? For Sienna, she felt constricted and out of place in Dane's wealthy family. Dane sensed her slipping away, but how could he show her he loved her no matter what? The snow ends, but not the rekindling of their love for each other. Will Sienna and Dane find the way back to loving each other again?
Brenda Jackson's NEVER TOO LATE is a heartwarming tale of reunited lovers that will leave you smiling.
Forced to face each other with no distractions, Sienna and Dane can't deny the spark that still sizzles between them. Slowly and surely, they begin to converse, trying to find out what happened. Why did a couple so in love suddenly no longer communicate? For Sienna, she felt constricted and out of place in Dane's wealthy family. Dane sensed her slipping away, but how could he show her he loved her no matter what? The snow ends, but not the rekindling of their love for each other. Will Sienna and Dane find the way back to loving each other again?
Brenda Jackson's NEVER TOO LATE is a heartwarming tale of reunited lovers that will leave you smiling.
41 pages, ebook
First published March 1, 2006
254 people are currently reading
424 people want to read
About the author
Brenda Jackson
898 books3,594 followersIn 1994, Brenda Jackson’s first novel, Tonight and Forever, was released. Since then she has had more than 100 novels and novellas published (the first African-American author to accomplish such a feat) and has over 3 million books in print.
A native of Jacksonville, Florida, Brenda is the first African-American author to have a book published by Harlequin Desire and the first African-American romance author to make the New York Times and USA TODAY bestseller lists within the series romance genre.
In 2012, Brenda received the Romance Writers of America’s Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award—one of the highest literary awards a romance author can receive. In 2013, she was recognized by the mayor and the city of Jacksonville as being a Trailblazer in the literary field.
In 2010, she collaborated with Five Alive Films to turn her Truly Everlasting title into a feature film. Brenda’s 2011 novel A Silken Thread is scheduled to be filmed with Debbie Allen attached as director in 2015.
Email Brenda at authorbrendajackson@gmail.com or visit her on her website at brendajackson.net.
A native of Jacksonville, Florida, Brenda is the first African-American author to have a book published by Harlequin Desire and the first African-American romance author to make the New York Times and USA TODAY bestseller lists within the series romance genre.
In 2012, Brenda received the Romance Writers of America’s Nora Roberts Lifetime Achievement Award—one of the highest literary awards a romance author can receive. In 2013, she was recognized by the mayor and the city of Jacksonville as being a Trailblazer in the literary field.
In 2010, she collaborated with Five Alive Films to turn her Truly Everlasting title into a feature film. Brenda’s 2011 novel A Silken Thread is scheduled to be filmed with Debbie Allen attached as director in 2015.
Email Brenda at authorbrendajackson@gmail.com or visit her on her website at brendajackson.net.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
March 14, 2018
This was a bonus second chance story that followed Tempted by Her Innocent Kiss / Never Too Late in my copy of the book.
I thought Maya Banks had a simple writing style, but this story elevated her prose to Shakespearean. 48 pages is limiting, and the author was smart into confining the story to a snow-bound cabin where a divorcing couple is forced to confront their problems.
But their problems are so vague and their solutions so pat, that I wondered what the heck it was that I read. They basically noticed how hot the other partner was after a separation. They each wrote out their marriage problems on a piece of paper and then promised they would work on them. That's it. HEA.
I see that this is part of some sort of series and as a teaser for that series, it didn't work. As an intro to a new-to-me author it didn't work, either.
Am I missing something fellow readers? Not every author can write a short story, so I want to be fair.
I thought Maya Banks had a simple writing style, but this story elevated her prose to Shakespearean. 48 pages is limiting, and the author was smart into confining the story to a snow-bound cabin where a divorcing couple is forced to confront their problems.
But their problems are so vague and their solutions so pat, that I wondered what the heck it was that I read. They basically noticed how hot the other partner was after a separation. They each wrote out their marriage problems on a piece of paper and then promised they would work on them. That's it. HEA.
I see that this is part of some sort of series and as a teaser for that series, it didn't work. As an intro to a new-to-me author it didn't work, either.
Am I missing something fellow readers? Not every author can write a short story, so I want to be fair.
October 9, 2020
reread!
I read Sienna and Dane's quickie many moons ago when Brenda Jackson uploaded it on her website for her fans! They both still had strong feelings for each other even though they were about to get a divorce. Thank goodness for the snowstorm with both being trapped together to discover that it's "Never Too Late"... to find love again!
5 second changes stars!
BTW, this book will be re-released on October 12th!
I read Sienna and Dane's quickie many moons ago when Brenda Jackson uploaded it on her website for her fans! They both still had strong feelings for each other even though they were about to get a divorce. Thank goodness for the snowstorm with both being trapped together to discover that it's "Never Too Late"... to find love again!
5 second changes stars!
BTW, this book will be re-released on October 12th!
December 16, 2012
Excellent short story. I'm usually not a fan of short stories because I'm always left wanting more. Although I feel the same about this story, it was well written. The author put a spin on the reason for the divorce which I liked. It wasn't the cliche "he cheated", "she cheated" drama. There was good dialogue and characterization. The one thing I noticed after reading two of the author's books is that I can never picture what the characters look like. She gives vague descriptions. All I remember from this book is that the heroine wears her hair in twists and I didn't discover that until nearly the end of the story. Besides that, the book was well done.
March 17, 2023
Very quick read
3.5 stars
I don’t know anything about the family/backstory of the characters. It’s not required, but I think some context would have been helpful.
Nonetheless, this was a fast read about Sienna and Dane, a couple that is headed for divorce. They are unexpectedly snowed in and they use that time to determine if this really is the end of their marriage or if they’re making a huge mistake.
Considering this is an HEA, I’m sure you can figure out the conclusion! I’ve already downloaded the next book, too.
3.5 stars
I don’t know anything about the family/backstory of the characters. It’s not required, but I think some context would have been helpful.
Nonetheless, this was a fast read about Sienna and Dane, a couple that is headed for divorce. They are unexpectedly snowed in and they use that time to determine if this really is the end of their marriage or if they’re making a huge mistake.
Considering this is an HEA, I’m sure you can figure out the conclusion! I’ve already downloaded the next book, too.
July 1, 2021
I’m not a fan of Romance novels
I should have never picked this book up. I blame myself and not the author. This was a beautiful well written story but I hate romance novels. There is never enough substance for me. They always seems to have a very narrow plot. I did not enjoy but I’m sure others will
I should have never picked this book up. I blame myself and not the author. This was a beautiful well written story but I hate romance novels. There is never enough substance for me. They always seems to have a very narrow plot. I did not enjoy but I’m sure others will
December 31, 2018
This was good for such a short read. The couple talk it out which is a very reasonable action and therefore it receives 4 stars from me.
January 5, 2025
Cute snowed-in second chance story. Married couple who desperately needs to learn communication.
September 1, 2025
This audiobook is narrated by Adenrele Ojo. Who was the perfect voice for this sweet, sexy second chance love story.
Sienna & Dane are a married couple who are planning for divorce. Sienna arrives at their vacation home to clear her things out when she's surprised by her estranged husband Dane. The two of them are then stranded at this vacation home by inclement weather. This gives them a chance to realize there may still be a spark between them.
This was a quick and pleasant read. The novella is part of a larger series but I had no questions reading it as a standalone short story.
Thank you to Brenda Jackson, Harlequin Audio, and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to and review this audiobook. All opinions and viewpoints expressed in this review are my own.
Sienna & Dane are a married couple who are planning for divorce. Sienna arrives at their vacation home to clear her things out when she's surprised by her estranged husband Dane. The two of them are then stranded at this vacation home by inclement weather. This gives them a chance to realize there may still be a spark between them.
This was a quick and pleasant read. The novella is part of a larger series but I had no questions reading it as a standalone short story.
Thank you to Brenda Jackson, Harlequin Audio, and NetGalley for the opportunity to listen to and review this audiobook. All opinions and viewpoints expressed in this review are my own.
May 11, 2022
With true love, it's never too late!
I read this story as part of another book and always felt good knowing these two loved each other and used their time being stranded in a blizzard to fix what in their marriage that drove them apart. I like that Vanessa Steele, Sienna's best friend sent her handsome cousins to check on her and Dane! Dane and Sienna admitted to loving each other, not wanting a divorce and agreed on the need to return to honest communication with one another. Funny it seems that once they put things right in their relationship the blizzard they had named the beast from the east left as quietly and as quickly as it appeared! I like this story of love almost lost, being salvaged by both parties putting in the work to keep their marriage viable.
I read this story as part of another book and always felt good knowing these two loved each other and used their time being stranded in a blizzard to fix what in their marriage that drove them apart. I like that Vanessa Steele, Sienna's best friend sent her handsome cousins to check on her and Dane! Dane and Sienna admitted to loving each other, not wanting a divorce and agreed on the need to return to honest communication with one another. Funny it seems that once they put things right in their relationship the blizzard they had named the beast from the east left as quietly and as quickly as it appeared! I like this story of love almost lost, being salvaged by both parties putting in the work to keep their marriage viable.
May 29, 2022
Never Too Late. This book is the beginning of the Steele family by Brenda Jackson. I enjoyed this book! The characters were beautiful and grabbed at my heart. Sienna and Dane Bradford were on the verge of an ugly divorce. Dane didn't want it and Sienna thought there was no other way to solve their problems. In this divorce, Dane was to take possession of their cabin, so Sienna went to the cabin to retrieve any items so may have left there. Little did she know that Dane was on his way there to just get away and sulk. They meet at the cabin and get stuck there together because of a big snow storm they both thought they could out run. Once there, they finally get a chance to talk and find out how they both felt. This is a great read!!
August 7, 2025
Quick Summary: A "Beast and Beauty" novella
My Review: Never Too Late by Brenda Jackson is book #0.5 in the Forged of Steele series. It was first published in 2006. It is being released by Harlequin Audio on 8/26/25.
About the Book: "A snowbound reunion they never saw coming..."
In My Own Words: A couple on the cusp of divorce get snowed in and must face each other and the truths they have held close to their hearts.
About the Characters/Conflict: This was a very realistic story. Sienna and Dane lost touch with what truly matters in marriage. I loved how committed they were to being real with each other.
About the Audiobook: This novella was narrated by Adenrele Ojo. Her character voices were so effortless. I was so easily entertained.
My Final Say: I enjoyed this short so very much. By the novella's end, I wanted to get to know all of the Steeles. I plan on acquainting myself with all of the books in the series.
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Status/Level: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Series: Yes
Audiobook: Yes
Narration: +
Cover: +
Appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (Harlequin Audio), and to NetGalley. Thank you for providing access to an ALC of this title in exchange for an honest critique. I thoroughly enjoyed my listening experience. I look forward to reading more books from this series.
My Review: Never Too Late by Brenda Jackson is book #0.5 in the Forged of Steele series. It was first published in 2006. It is being released by Harlequin Audio on 8/26/25.
About the Book: "A snowbound reunion they never saw coming..."
In My Own Words: A couple on the cusp of divorce get snowed in and must face each other and the truths they have held close to their hearts.
About the Characters/Conflict: This was a very realistic story. Sienna and Dane lost touch with what truly matters in marriage. I loved how committed they were to being real with each other.
About the Audiobook: This novella was narrated by Adenrele Ojo. Her character voices were so effortless. I was so easily entertained.
My Final Say: I enjoyed this short so very much. By the novella's end, I wanted to get to know all of the Steeles. I plan on acquainting myself with all of the books in the series.
Rating: 4/5
Recommend: Yes
Audience: A
Status/Level: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Series: Yes
Audiobook: Yes
Narration: +
Cover: +
Appreciation is extended to the author, to the publisher (Harlequin Audio), and to NetGalley. Thank you for providing access to an ALC of this title in exchange for an honest critique. I thoroughly enjoyed my listening experience. I look forward to reading more books from this series.
August 22, 2025
Never Too Late AUDIO by Brenda Jackson is a very short romance between two people set to divorce who get stuck in a cabin together during a rainstorm and are forced to do what they had not done for a long time: talk to one another. Sienna and Dane loved one another but had taken a wrong turn. When they were stuck together, they came together in a way neither thought possible. Both strong, independent people, their marriage had been affected by outside forces and they had allowed it. Only a couple of hours long, this was an endearing lesson in love.
The reader is Adenrele Ojo who fit the bill perfectly, keeping the right amount of gravitas balanced by the emotions each one felt.
I was invited to listen to Never Too Late by Harlequin Audio. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #HarlequinAudio #AdenreleOjo #BrendaJackson #NeverTooLate
The reader is Adenrele Ojo who fit the bill perfectly, keeping the right amount of gravitas balanced by the emotions each one felt.
I was invited to listen to Never Too Late by Harlequin Audio. All thoughts and opinions are mine. #Netgalley #HarlequinAudio #AdenreleOjo #BrendaJackson #NeverTooLate
December 8, 2019
Seriously I wonder at the size of both h and H. They have chicken meat(actually deer but the other one doesn't know that), eggs, breads, 3 packets of girl scout cookies, multiple bags of crips, candy bars, tea, coffee, milk and WINE they use to toast a snow storm that could last 3-4 days despite LOW rations of food but ended up lasting barely one night! Its a novella but feels longer than it should be as they talk their low rations to death way more times than the situation warrants rather than their upcoming divorce.
December 27, 2020
This story was heartwarming.
I gave this story a five star rating is because this book was well written story that gave me a short insight on what was happening with Dane and Sienna's marriage. If broke my heart as I was reading how Sienna and Dane were talking to each other about the lack of communication with each other and also some of the problems that were in the way of them getting back to Dane and Sienna. I really enjoyed this book, I wish this could've been a longer story than it was, and I also wished this story would have a part two to it.
I gave this story a five star rating is because this book was well written story that gave me a short insight on what was happening with Dane and Sienna's marriage. If broke my heart as I was reading how Sienna and Dane were talking to each other about the lack of communication with each other and also some of the problems that were in the way of them getting back to Dane and Sienna. I really enjoyed this book, I wish this could've been a longer story than it was, and I also wished this story would have a part two to it.
December 22, 2022
Rekindled love through a snowstorm.
As usual, Mrs. Jackson always delivers. Dane and Sienna were meant to be. Divorce can be an ugly thing to happen to a couple, but never more so than when that couple is truly still in love with each other. As Dane and Sienna get stuck in their cabin during a snowstorm, this is a chance to right some wrongs and honestly talk. Patience, forgiveness, and communication allow these two to decide that they are better together than apart, and the heart wants what it wants. So glad they agreed to put in the work to hold onto their marriage.
As usual, Mrs. Jackson always delivers. Dane and Sienna were meant to be. Divorce can be an ugly thing to happen to a couple, but never more so than when that couple is truly still in love with each other. As Dane and Sienna get stuck in their cabin during a snowstorm, this is a chance to right some wrongs and honestly talk. Patience, forgiveness, and communication allow these two to decide that they are better together than apart, and the heart wants what it wants. So glad they agreed to put in the work to hold onto their marriage.
August 11, 2025
This was a cute little snippet.
I like the trope of being snowed in is one of my favorites because you can't escape, you gotta work out whatever is going on.
I think my main issue is that the conflict felt a little easy to overcome? Like besides it being a big miscommunication, it just seems like it was a little surface level. Not saying that marriages have ended for less though.
Either way, it was a very quick fun time. The narrators did a good job, and I would dip into the rest of the series.
Thank you to Harlequin Audio and Netgalley for an early copy.
I like the trope of being snowed in is one of my favorites because you can't escape, you gotta work out whatever is going on.
I think my main issue is that the conflict felt a little easy to overcome? Like besides it being a big miscommunication, it just seems like it was a little surface level. Not saying that marriages have ended for less though.
Either way, it was a very quick fun time. The narrators did a good job, and I would dip into the rest of the series.
Thank you to Harlequin Audio and Netgalley for an early copy.
October 26, 2020
Outstanding
The author did her thing! This story was short but, completely not lacking in substance. Communication was a problem that was stated, resolved and improved. This author is one of my top tier for enjoying my Sunday afternoons. Romance at it's finest. I love that the books I have read from Brenda Jackson, I have never read a bad ending. Always happy ever after... romance!
The author did her thing! This story was short but, completely not lacking in substance. Communication was a problem that was stated, resolved and improved. This author is one of my top tier for enjoying my Sunday afternoons. Romance at it's finest. I love that the books I have read from Brenda Jackson, I have never read a bad ending. Always happy ever after... romance!
October 30, 2020
Love is better the second time around.
Duane and Sienna love story was well written and enjoyable. This couple was on the verge of a divorce but they still were in love with each other. They meet up unexpectedly at the same place and they are snowed in. It gives them an opportunity to discuss what went wrong in the marriage. Open, honest communication and allows them to confess their love for each other. A good.read.
Duane and Sienna love story was well written and enjoyable. This couple was on the verge of a divorce but they still were in love with each other. They meet up unexpectedly at the same place and they are snowed in. It gives them an opportunity to discuss what went wrong in the marriage. Open, honest communication and allows them to confess their love for each other. A good.read.
March 12, 2021
Brenda Jackson never disappoints!!! A story of an estranged couple on the brink of divorce meet up their cabin in the mountains. Sienna went up to the cabin to retrieve her items and Dane goes up to remember the love they shared. Being stranded in a snow storm the couple are force to talk about how they got to this place. Forced to have those conversations that helps to find their way back into each other lives.
July 7, 2025
Siena was proving to be worthy of her husband Dane who was from a wealthy family while she was from a single mother family. She was spending so much time building her carrier that she lost time and memories with her husband. Now with a divorce in 12 days she was tasked with clearing out the cabin of her things only to be snowbound with Dane. They still had a connection so worked on communicating what went wrong and found they just needed to communicate
August 14, 2025
This is a great, quick read. There is redemption, forced proximity, second chances and actual communication to solve problems. Sign me up because I love an adult approach to relationships in romance. The story was quick but had a satisfying story arc and an HEA.
The narrator did a great job and really brought the feelings of these characters to life in full dramatic force.if you only have time for a quick read or listen this will serve you well!
The narrator did a great job and really brought the feelings of these characters to life in full dramatic force.if you only have time for a quick read or listen this will serve you well!
December 17, 2025
very very VERY cute forced proximity break up make up
love the concept of being stranded in the middle of no where and forced to face ur issues x
once again, i am a sucker for a mmc who YEARNS
will be taking notes from their communication in the last few chapters, 10/10
also this mmc very much gives male energy, the author genuinely made me think he was a real male by his thought processes
lovely quick read, very cute
3/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
love the concept of being stranded in the middle of no where and forced to face ur issues x
once again, i am a sucker for a mmc who YEARNS
will be taking notes from their communication in the last few chapters, 10/10
also this mmc very much gives male energy, the author genuinely made me think he was a real male by his thought processes
lovely quick read, very cute
3/5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️
October 14, 2020
Never Too Late
I was glad to read about the Steele family and their friends. I was shocked to hear that Sienna was divorcing the love of her life, Dane! The snow storm, or as they say, The Beast from the East, definitely paid off .I'm glad that got back together. A 5 star book as always for Mrs. Jackson.
I was glad to read about the Steele family and their friends. I was shocked to hear that Sienna was divorcing the love of her life, Dane! The snow storm, or as they say, The Beast from the East, definitely paid off .I'm glad that got back together. A 5 star book as always for Mrs. Jackson.
November 2, 2020
If it's broke fix it
Dane and Sienna have nothing but time to reflect and consider what they both want while stranded at their cabin. Both arrived to quickly get in and out before storm. This short story is beautifully written about communication and respect. Mrs. Jackson has done it again with friends of the Steele family.
Dane and Sienna have nothing but time to reflect and consider what they both want while stranded at their cabin. Both arrived to quickly get in and out before storm. This short story is beautifully written about communication and respect. Mrs. Jackson has done it again with friends of the Steele family.
January 18, 2021
Communication is key!
Sienna and Dane really loved each other. Because of Dane's interfering parents she had filed for a divorce she really did not want. Both were stranded at their cabin due to a blizzard. The Beast from.The East gave them the opportunity to sit down and talk about everything.
Sienna and Dane really loved each other. Because of Dane's interfering parents she had filed for a divorce she really did not want. Both were stranded at their cabin due to a blizzard. The Beast from.The East gave them the opportunity to sit down and talk about everything.
February 9, 2022
True Love
I just love when a couple can come together and restore the love that they have for each other. Sienna and Dane did just that in short but mighty marriage in distress novella. Lack of communication created a wedge between the couple but a snow storm allowed the couple to address the Barriers that kept them apart. Communication , love and honesty is key. Loved it
I just love when a couple can come together and restore the love that they have for each other. Sienna and Dane did just that in short but mighty marriage in distress novella. Lack of communication created a wedge between the couple but a snow storm allowed the couple to address the Barriers that kept them apart. Communication , love and honesty is key. Loved it
February 26, 2023
Lovely
Dane & Sienna are 15 days from their divorce being finalized. Sienna had instructions from his lawyer to clear her belongings from the cabin. While she's there Dane walks in, fate gives them a brutal snowstorm. Love the way Dane is determined to communicate with his wife, make things right and stay together. Short and lovely.
Dane & Sienna are 15 days from their divorce being finalized. Sienna had instructions from his lawyer to clear her belongings from the cabin. While she's there Dane walks in, fate gives them a brutal snowstorm. Love the way Dane is determined to communicate with his wife, make things right and stay together. Short and lovely.
September 8, 2024
Sienna and Dane were just days away from being divorced when they ended up stranded at his cabin in a snow storm.
I liked that they didn't waste time arguing a whole lot. Once they saw the predicament they were in, they decided to make the best of that time and talk.
I enjoyed this short book. I hope they are truly able to stay together forever.
I liked that they didn't waste time arguing a whole lot. Once they saw the predicament they were in, they decided to make the best of that time and talk.
I enjoyed this short book. I hope they are truly able to stay together forever.
February 3, 2025
I loved this short story. Sienna and Dane needed to be stranded together to fix their relationship. I loved that they both agreed what the main issue in their marriage is. Everything about this story had me smiling from them coming together to combine resources to them deciding to stay together. I want more of this story as I want her to put Dane's family in their place.
May 3, 2018
I enjoyed this short romantic second chance story. It focused on communication. I received this for free and I voluntarily chose to review it. I've given it a 4* rating. It is just so short, more like an after thought although it gives a nice ending.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews