Eras of Us

Behind the Scenes

by Shannon O'Connor

A Sapphic FLETCHER coded second chance romance.

River:
The last person I ever expected to run into at the Cari concert was the former love of my life, Aspen Wheeler. I knew she was our favorite artist, but at Madison Square Garden, an arena that must hold more than thousands the chance of us running into each other felt like one in a million.
But as she hugs me, all of my old feelings come rising to the surface. It’s like the last 4 years never happened, and I wonder what it would be like to stay in her arms forever.


Aspen:
Running into River at a Cari concert wasn’t on my list of possibilities, but when we hugged it was like no time had past. Which is how I ended up in her bed and waking up the next morning. We both try to play it off like it’s nothing, but I can’t be the only one feeling something. So when we have the chance to see each other again, of course I take it. I mean, what’s the worst that can happen with seeing my first love?


If you love FLETCHER, Sapphic romances, and second chances with your first love, then you’ll love this book!

Genres: Lesbian, Second Chance, Romance, LGBT, Contemporary, Queer

224 pages, Kindle Edition

Published July 24, 2024

About the author

Shannon O’Connor is a twenty something, bisexual, self published poet of several books and counting. O’Connor enjoys life’s simple pleasures: coffee, reading, traveling, and spending time with her new baby. O’Connor is continuously working on new poetry projects, book reviews, and more, while also diving into motherhood. She loves supporting local indie authors & shops as much as possible.

Facebook Group: https://www.facebook.com/groups/shans...

Reviews

[Sapphic Bookshelf]

I love River and Aspen’s chemistry. The steamy scenes are aplenty and they are fire 🥵 Although, I’ll admit I would’ve loved a little more emotional depth to their relationship.

Idk if this was a me problem, but I had the hardest time connecting the name to the person. I know one is a makeup artist and is best friends with Max and the other is a tattoo artist and is best friends with Cari. But I could never remember which person was Aspen and which was River until the last like 15% of the book.

All that to say I did still really enjoy this book! If you’re looking for a steamy second chance romance, check this one out!

Also I want to note this book does tap into heavier topics, so please check the CWs.

[Lauren · Rating 4 out of 5]

When I first found out this book was Fletcher coded, I was SO excited to read it. I definitely saw all the little references throughout the book and the spice did not disappoint 🔥 the story very much took me through the motions in so many way from the shock, hope, heartbreak, love, growth. Just so many things. This story ultimately made me hopeful, at times hurt but ultimately made my heart happy. It was a great read, although some parts were hard to read due to personal reasons. So please do consider the CW’s. I also loved the little Easter egg bringing in a character from one of Shannon’s previous books. This was definitely my favourite of Shannon’s books so far.

This story follows River, a tattoo artist and Aspen, a make up artist. They are ex lovers who run into each other at a concert in New York. This unexpected run in re kindles a lot of feelings from 5 years ago. If you’re looking for a steamy second chance with the perks of Fletcher themes. This might just be for you.

I received a free copy of this book from Shannon and am voluntarily leaving a review.

⭐️ 4
🌶️ 4

CW: parental death, substance abuse,

Rep: Lesbian MC’s, Non-binary side character

[Lez_be_readin_ya · Rating 4 out of 5]

Shannon has written a remarkable and captivating book. The storyline is easy to follow and well-thought-out.

Set in New York City, the story centres around River, a tattoo artist, and Aspen, a make-up artist. Their serendipitous encounter rekindles their desires. The book is both heartwarming and steamy, and I found it difficult to put down.

The chemistry between River and Aspen is palpable, and the sexual tension between the characters is undeniable. Certain scenes will undoubtedly leave readers yearning for more, and Shannon delivers on her promise with these two main characters.

I thoroughly enjoyed the interactions and relationships between the characters and would be delighted to learn more about them if this book were to become a series. This book is undoubtedly one of my favourite reads from Shannon, and I eagerly anticipate delving into more of her literary works in the future. I highly recommend this book.

Star rating. ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating. 🔥🔥🔥🔥

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Sadie☠🖤 · Rating 5 out of 5]

I loved this book. The chemistry between River and Aspen was off the charts! Amazing spice and just the right amount of drama where it doesn't muddle the story. Loved the Fletcher references. I would love to see more of Aspen and River, but I definitely want to see more of Cari and Max.

[Finding Sky Reads · Rating 4 out of 5]

Things I loved:
• Lesbian MCs!
• Second chance with first love
• Voyeurism
• Lots of sapphic spice
• Great relationship development

Spice: 🌶🌶🌶🌶
Burn: 🔥🔥🔥🔥

I really loved the chemistry between River and Aspen throughout the whole book (Side note, I LOVE the name River). I did find it a little hard to differentiate between the two characters for a bit, other than who their best friends were, but once I figured that out, it was great.

I loved their reunion; honestly, their chemistry and attraction were palpable through my gosh-darn Kindle. No joke, this book almost had my Kindle throbbing with them. This book had so much sexual tension right off the bat, and with the one-night stand, it kicks off with a bang. I honestly was a bit worried for a moment these characters were just going to keep having sex and never talk, but THANK GOD THIS AUTHOR WRITES WELL! I loved that when they did finally communicate, it was mature, and they were understanding and respectful of each other. Even when things got heavy, it was nice to see them talk it through, go slow, and come together stronger. I loved their ending, and it felt so incredibly fitting and just right for them. I wanted more.

I loved the way the friends were supportive but protective. The way they encouraged communication between Aspen and River, and I'd love to read more on Cari and Max.


✨️

[Morgan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eras of Us is a super steamy second chance sapphic romance from Shannon O’Connor. Our MCs, River and Aspen, were together in their younger years, but the relationship ended when Aspen left River and NYC to head off to California, so River is surprised when they run into each other at a concert. Turns out Aspen is back, and their feelings haven’t changed, although River is still hurt over how their relationship ended and Aspen feels a lot of guilt and regret about it. The two have what both expect to be a one night stand, but they just can’t seem to quit each other.

I really enjoyed the story, the spice was frequent and well done, and the characters and their connection was fabulous. There was some jumping from past to present tense in the writing, sometimes in the middle of paragraphs, particularly in the earlier parts of the story. I did find that a bit frustrating but bearable. There’s not a lot of drama but there are a few triggers so make sure you check those, but Eras of Us is definitely worth a read.

I received a free ARC from BookSirens, but my review is unbiased and left voluntarily.

[Mélanie Montmarquet · Rating 4 out of 5]

I didn't know what to expect much when I started Eras of Us, the premise seemed attractive enough : Sapphic, Smut, Second-chance lovers and FLETCHER! It is a feel good book, perfect palate cleanser for all the dark romance reader who need a little break from darkness. I loved the chemistry between Aspen and River, it was really believable.
In my humble opinion, the story seemed to be lacking a bit of... I don't know, drama? Maybe it's just because of what kind of book I usually read, maybe I was not in the particuliar mood for something this light. I was always waiting for the shoe to drop.
But overall, I enjoyed reading it, it was a quick read and the amount of smut is great! The story is totally believable, down-to-earth and this couple is cute!

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily

[Heather · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a light easy 5⭐️. Well written. Kept my interest from start to finish. I loved the MCs. I appreciated how they were able to communicate as adults and find resolution in their past to move on to something better and more meaningful. While there were ups and downs, they handled them together as a mature couple meant to be and stay together.

This is one of my go to authors and this book definitely didn’t disappoint. Highly recommend!

[Aunt Missa · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was ok for a quick read to fill some time. Lots of spice and a little bit of a story. I couldn’t really tell the characters apart, which took away from the reading experience. It’s basically low level smut and good for a quick read.

[babblingaboutbooks🧡 · Rating 3 out of 5]

*I received an ARC for my honest opinion*

TW-
Loss of a parent (both on and off page)
Alcoholic parent

So, this book… I really enjoyed it! I think it represented the complicated feeling that go with grief incredibly well, and the complex emotional toll having a strained relationship with a parent can be.

I just have a few tiny things that I wasn’t a fan of-
1) making shitty comments on people’s tattoos such as ‘not another dream catcher thigh tattoo’ and ‘not an infinity sign’- I just really didn’t like these comments and I feel like if anyone reads these books with those tattoos it might make them feel a bit shitty..
2) it’s mentioned that they’re gay in every. single. chapter. for the first half of the book - we know they’re gay, it’s literally why I’m reading the book! It doesn’t need to be repeated in every chapter- I do however love how inclusive the book is as a whole!

There’s a few typos and a few moments where their descriptions are muddled up… eg Aspen is crying and River is stroking her ‘dark hair’ - but River has dark curly hair and earlier it says Aspen has dark blonde hair? but obviously that’s going to happen in an ARC as they’re not proof read yet!

But over all I really enjoyed it, it was a light and quick read with no unnecessary drama and I’m looking forward to seeing what happens between Gus, Max and Cari!! (hopefully a throuple or something because that’d be awesome!?)

Oh and - the smut is 🔥

[Erica · Rating 5 out of 5]

❤️


Second chance romance tropes always get me hooked. River and Aspen were together for 5 years when Aspen breaks up with River suddenly one day. They meet again 5 years later at a concert and their relationship takes off again from that day. I really enjoyed how they got to know each other again and fall in love for the second time. There are some parts about their past which I enjoyed as well. There’s lot of spicy scenes so the sexual chemistry was not lacking at all. A must read if u enjoy second chance romances.

[Mark taylor · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eras of Us by Shannon O'Connor is a second chance sapphic romance between River a tattoo artist and Aspen a makeup artist who split after college.

Shannon O’connor is rapidly becoming one of my favourite romance writers outside even outside the specific area of sapphic romances.

Not only is the writer able to build a connection between the two main characters, so everything feels natural as the romance grows through the length of the story.

What Shannon O’Connor does well including in this story, and that is to deal with complicated issues in people’s lives, no matter if it is one of the main characters having the issue. Or how a main character is affected by the difficulties of the side character.

In Ears of Us it is a side character's mother going through issues or though the cause also had an affect on the main character as well, so check content warnings.

Having said that, Shannon O’connor handles the issues with her usual sensitivity.

Although second chance romances are a popular trope in the romance genre, the main problem is the reason for the break up and how the two individuals deal with the aftermath in addition to how this affects this stage of the relationship.

In the Era of Us the reason for the breakup was explained and while it did affect the story it never took over the romance as well as being perfectly reasonable.

While this is a spicy romance with a number of these scenes, the romance between Aspen and River makes Shannon O’Connor’s Eras of Us well worth reading.


I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[TheLisaD · Rating 5 out of 5]

This story is about River and Aspen who are exes that just happen to run into each other at a concert. Their break up was sudden and left River with a lot of pain and really no closure. They started to talk at the concert and could both still feel the fireworks after all this time and so they end up going home together. That night started their new era one that neither wants to end.

I have been waiting on this book for what feels like years, it was really just a few months, and finally I was able to read it and the book does not disappoint. It has spice and love though also it’s a perfect sapphic rom-com with characters that you can totally relate to as well as root for. The spicy scenes are very hot and will not disappoint especially the photo shoot scene!

I needed to sleep and fully process my love for this story. If you saw the videos of Fletcher and Shannon running into each other at the Taylor concert and secretly wished it went further then this is the fandomish book for you. Yes it’s different people with totally different life’s but every fan has probably thought what if and what happened after. Also while reading the book Eras of Us by Fletcher just kept playing on repeat in my head.

“There’s something about today that’s turning me on. You’re in that dress and I just want you out of it.”

[Fran Sappharc · Rating 3 out of 5]

I will confess, the cover, although accurate for at least the start, isn’t something that screams, this is my type of book. I also didn’t have a clue about Fletcher references. However, I know this author and writing style, and I usually enjoy it. The start certainly has me reading quite happily. This is a hot book, with a bit of plot. If anyone remembers PWP, (Plot, what plot) this is kinda like that, but with a sort of plot. There is also an unhappy home situation. Some of the PWP scenes I really liked and others just didn’t work for me, which lets you know they weren’t repetitive and it’s personal taste.
To describe this as PWP actually does it a disservice. There is a plot point towards the end that doesn’t shy away from difficult family relationships and that doesn’t either go for the family cut off or happily resolved, well apart from the final resolution. That section is well written, and more my taste than the many intimate scenes. Despite being moved by that part of the plot, for me there was not enough out the bedroom content to round up or nudge up to 4. (Others may look on that as a total recommendation!)

[~lil maso~ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Reviewed by Natalie for Saucy Reviews on Kinky Korner

Second chance love story... break up and 5 years later a chance meeting at a concert with thousands of people, was meant to be for Aspen and River!

After a night of passion neither of them can get the other out of their heads, another chance meeting and these two decide to start again...

A sweet but very steamy story of two ladies who are just drawn together.

I look forward to reading more from this author.


*ARC received in exchange for an honest review*
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[Heloise · Rating 5 out of 5]

Where do i start? Chapter 9 HAD ME SCREAMING. I woke up so excited by this arc this is an auto buy author for me and to have an arc by her is a dream. I adored the relationship between River and Aspen. Normally i'm not mad on the second chance romances but I'm so glad i gave it a go, what a story I cried. I adored Aspens character, i love the fact River took time to given space when needed but made it clear she would not be pushed away. Cari and Rivers friendship is so relatable especially the texts that had me cackling, but i loved how she took a minute to warm up to aspen because she was making sure her friend was okay, but also called river out on what it was she wanted. I really loved this and devoured it. Finally, the acknowledgement the first part had me in tears, also an amazing playlist choice.

[Gina · Rating 3 out of 5]

I loved the idea of a second chance romance, I wanted to see a happy ending and hot scenes. The way the characters felt like they could really be a friend IRL was wonderful, lots of inclusiveness. I had high hopes for this between the monsters/ dark filth I read a lot of.

I dnf, made it 26% and feels like I failed the ARC assignment. I agree that everyone should have a book that's relatable and being inclusive is important. Describing a woman as her or she (a main character)and randomly changing it to them or they mid sentence or paragraph to describe the same woman felt like it was forced or suddenly reading about the one character (not the main) that did identify as they/them. Made it more confusing to read honestly.

I do hope there's a nice balance in the future and would definitely try reading it again.

[Xoey Ophelia Ishtar · Rating 5 out of 5]

As a huge fan of Shannon’s books so far and a FLETCHER fan, I was excited for this book as soon as I heard about it. The great thing was that it didn’t disappoint. I instantly fell in love with the main characters and their friends, and was impressed with how the second chance romance was handled. I am also hoping that this is the first in a series like “I Saw Mommy Kissing the Nanny” because I really want to get books about their friends, and if they are inspired by other sapphic pop stars… then it would be fun to build those playlists to listen to as I read.

All in all I loved the story so much and recommend it to anyone who has that one ex they might just be interested in hooking up with one more time.

[Jacqueline Espinoza · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book gave me all the 2nd chance feels. River and Aspen run into each other at a concert after years apart, and from there it’s a slow unraveling of old wounds, lingering chemistry, and the kind of emotional baggage that makes you want to yell “just talk to each other!” but also… you get it.

I really liked how the story didn’t rush their reconnection. It felt natural—awkward, sweet, sometimes frustrating, but always believable. River’s steady vibe balances Aspen’s impulsiveness, and their shared history adds a quiet weight to everything they say (or don’t say).

Also, I just have to say—I loved finding a sapphic romance that actually felt real. No over-the-top drama, no forced tropes. Just two flawed people trying to figure it out, and it made me care about them so much more.

[Bre Smith · Rating 4 out of 5]

First, I just wanted to say I absolutely love this cover!! I also love how the chapter titles are all FLETCHER songs, and that the book is dedicated to her. Now for the actual book review lol. This book was lovely (? I’ve never used that word to describe a book before now). It was literally the most perfect second chance romance I’ve ever read. The characters and their emotions just felt so real. I loved this book. I feel like FLETCHER herself would love this book as well. I definitely need to immediately read all of the other books written by this author!

🏳️‍🌈Sapphic
🖤FLETCHER Coded
❤️‍🩹Second Chance

⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
🌶️🌶️🌶️/5

[Karen Wright · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a perfect second chance romance! It’s not only a page turner but also a must read. I couldn’t get enough of River and Aspen!

River and Aspen’s story started when they were younger and lasted 5 years. It didn’t quite work out. Fast forward 5 years and they run into each other at a concert. To me, the chemistry and attraction is still there. They just get along so well. As they get to know each other again, can they maybe rekindle what they had? Is it too late? Wait til you see what happens. I was rooting for River and Aspen the whole way through. Of course they go through some things-tragedy and just reconnecting, but in the end will River and Aspen get their happy ending?

[Mark · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aspen and River sizzle!

Aspen and River had history. They bumped into each other at a concert years after their relationship suddenly fizzled.

They hook up after the concert and the spark ignites a major flame! But now how do they move forward? Can they start fresh or is this just a fling?

The story moves quickly as would be expected in a novella but the pacing is great and the story will not leave you wanting. If you like your stories quick and spicy, this one will not disappoint.

I read an Advance Copy of this book and am leaving this voluntary review based on my personal reading experience.

[Emily G · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was a good second chance romance with of the charts spice levels. The main characters reconnect by chance and fall back in lust and love as they get to know each other again.
The book itself and individual chapters are titled after FLETCHER songs, and while that itself is cool, you don't need to be a hardcore FLETCHER fan to enjoy this book. The story is nice and it plays out beautifully, with surprisingly little angst and a lot of sexual tension (can it still be called tension if they do not hesitate at all to act on it?).

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Emilie · Rating 4 out of 5]

Eras of Us is easily my favorite book so far by Shannon O’Connor. I was hooked pretty soon from the start. The chemistry from the two main characters was palpable, and I really found myself rooting for them. I think the longer format of this book compared to other books by the author benefited the plot. The spice was excellent on top of that. Compared to Shannon O’Connor’s earlier works, it is easy to see how her writing has improved over time. It’s been great to see. I think this book felt more special to her, and it showed. Bravo.

I received a free advanced review copy, and I’ve left this review voluntarily. All opinions are my own.

[Bee · Rating 4 out of 5]

Overall I throughly enjoyed this book. The cover of the book doesn’t really match the description of the characters. I gave it four stars simply because I felt there were certain story lines that could have been expanded and more detailed, that some areas were not enough depth to. A few grammar and spelling errors on some pages. It was too clean cut. Needed a little more fire. But the character connection was 100% there, and possibly a little overkill, but it was a good read, and I hope for a second book, or a spinoff of the other characters.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Looby Lou · Rating 5 out of 5]

Aspen and River reconnect at a concert which kickstarts starts their second chance at love.
I love books where characters actually communicate and this didn’t disappoint. Sure there were challenges to overcome but as with most second chance romances, the characters bring maturity with them when they give it another go even though it was only 5 years of them being apart.
The characters were sweet and the story flowed well, plus the spice level was hot.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Kim Montgomery · Rating 5 out of 5]

To say that I loved this book would be an understatement. I have already ordered a signed copy of the paperback and if Shannon decides to put it on Audible, I am getting it also. If you are a fan of Fletcher you really must read this book and if you are not a fan of Fletcher you really must read this book. But really, Shannon as always has killed it with this book. It is hot, funny, sweet, and even had me in tears. Aspen’s and River’s chemistry is off the charts. A must read you do not want to miss. I received an advanced review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

[Chelles · Rating 5 out of 5]

Eras of Us

“If you love something, set it free. If it comes back, it's yours. If not, it was never meant to be.”

I believe Aspen and River truly lived out this quote. I loved that they acknowledged the fact that they both knew what it was like to live without each other, which they both agreed was necessary, and chose to move forward together, leaving the past where it lies. They had their present lives to deal with in order to see a future with each other. It's their time now.

Loved this story!!

[Donna · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed this book, the details really allowed you to draw a picture in your mind. Even had a tear at one point. The characters were great too and I’d happily pick up more books that explore the other characters.

I absolutely love the diversity, recognition and support throughout this book.

I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.

I Would definitely read more 😊

[SiSi ❤️ · Rating 4 out of 5]

Aspen and River were always meant to be, sometimes the timing just isn't right.

I do like second chance romance and this was a cute one! I love the way they fell right back into their romance like they never spent time apart.

It's pretty awesome to have friends the way they did as well.

I also love me a tattoo artist as the main character!

This author is my go to for lesbian romance, always a good read. Speaking of, I hope to see more of Cari in anything the author may have planned!