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On Screen & Off Again
A romantic will-they-won’t-they debut with a Hollywood twist, for fans of Love & Other Words and Every Summer After.
When Dax left, Wil swore she’d never forgive him. But now they’re co-stars and each other’s second chance at stardom... and maybe something more.
Seven years ago, childhood sweethearts Wilhelmina Chase and Daxon Avery were on top of the world as the charismatic star and beloved sidekick of a hit kids TV series. But when the show got cancelled, Dax left for college across the country, and they broke up.
Now they’re in their twenties, and their paths have diverged. Wil gets more attention in the tabloids than she does in casting calls, and Dax is about to star in a buzzy new movie that could cement his place on the Hollywood A-list. The one problem? After weeks of searching and auditions, his studio still hasn’t found the right co-star.
Meanwhile, Wil has just been arrested for stealing something from the home of a Hollywood bigwig. She gets to make one call from jail, and Dax’s is the only phone number she can remember.
On a whim, Dax swings Wil an audition for the movie. It’s a long shot, but it soon becomes clear Wil hasn’t lost an ounce of her talent; the years have given her a depth and intensity that Dax (and the casting director) can't look away from. As filming begins, the chemistry on both sides of the camera is stratospheric. But this is Wil’s last chance to reclaim her career; she can’t get distracted. Plus, Dax already left her behind once.
Will their romance be an on-screen hit but an off-screen disaster?
When Dax left, Wil swore she’d never forgive him. But now they’re co-stars and each other’s second chance at stardom... and maybe something more.
Seven years ago, childhood sweethearts Wilhelmina Chase and Daxon Avery were on top of the world as the charismatic star and beloved sidekick of a hit kids TV series. But when the show got cancelled, Dax left for college across the country, and they broke up.
Now they’re in their twenties, and their paths have diverged. Wil gets more attention in the tabloids than she does in casting calls, and Dax is about to star in a buzzy new movie that could cement his place on the Hollywood A-list. The one problem? After weeks of searching and auditions, his studio still hasn’t found the right co-star.
Meanwhile, Wil has just been arrested for stealing something from the home of a Hollywood bigwig. She gets to make one call from jail, and Dax’s is the only phone number she can remember.
On a whim, Dax swings Wil an audition for the movie. It’s a long shot, but it soon becomes clear Wil hasn’t lost an ounce of her talent; the years have given her a depth and intensity that Dax (and the casting director) can't look away from. As filming begins, the chemistry on both sides of the camera is stratospheric. But this is Wil’s last chance to reclaim her career; she can’t get distracted. Plus, Dax already left her behind once.
Will their romance be an on-screen hit but an off-screen disaster?
360 pages, Paperback
First published February 4, 2025
19 people are currently reading
6251 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 94 reviews
March 22, 2024
Hey there! I’m Caitlin, the author 🩷 Just giving myself five stars for the number of times along my journey to being published that I almost quit but didn’t. Just a little proud-of-myself moment celebrating the climb 🥰
I hope that this book gives you the swooniest, rom com, feel-good butterflies. I hope that if you see yourself in Wil or Dax that their growth and determination and love bring you all the good things you deserve. And more than anything, I hope this book makes you crave Jell-O.
Enjoy!!!!
xo Caitlin 🩷🩷🩷🩷
I hope that this book gives you the swooniest, rom com, feel-good butterflies. I hope that if you see yourself in Wil or Dax that their growth and determination and love bring you all the good things you deserve. And more than anything, I hope this book makes you crave Jell-O.
Enjoy!!!!
xo Caitlin 🩷🩷🩷🩷
January 8, 2025
i usually love second chance romances, but when there is exactly zero build up (like, 26% they’re falling into bed together even though they made a pact not to), it really made for disengaging read.
Wil, a child star turned hot mess, was so immature I actually couldn’t cope. Dax was the star of this book for me. He was warm and sweet and funny and so patient.
I like really can’t stand women fighting as a way of conflict and that whole plot line really just turned me off.
If it matters to some, this is a closed door romance.
Thank you 8th Note Press/Zando and NetGalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
actual rating 2.5.
Wil, a child star turned hot mess, was so immature I actually couldn’t cope. Dax was the star of this book for me. He was warm and sweet and funny and so patient.
I like really can’t stand women fighting as a way of conflict and that whole plot line really just turned me off.
If it matters to some, this is a closed door romance.
Thank you 8th Note Press/Zando and NetGalley for an arc in exchange for an honest review.
actual rating 2.5.
January 26, 2025
i wanted to love this SO BADLY. so so so badly.
and i didn’t.
i don’t really have anything to say other than that it’s a romance book in which the two characters have no chemistry, no tension, and no real connection. they didn’t feel like a couple. they didn’t come across as being in love with each other at any point.
you cannot have a romance with no romance.
that is all.
thank you to netgalley & 8th note press for the arc! all opinions are my own <3
and i didn’t.
i don’t really have anything to say other than that it’s a romance book in which the two characters have no chemistry, no tension, and no real connection. they didn’t feel like a couple. they didn’t come across as being in love with each other at any point.
you cannot have a romance with no romance.
that is all.
thank you to netgalley & 8th note press for the arc! all opinions are my own <3
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March 1, 2025Thank you to netgalley and the publisher for this e-ARC in exchange for an honest review!
DNF @ 20%
There's nothing horribly wrong with this book, but there's nothing really good about it either? I mean, I suppose that the writing is really breezy, so one can get through 20% of the book in a blink like I did. But just nothing about this book stuck. The premise is interesting enough. Two teen-stars from a popular teen show, the different ways they went in life, then coming back together for a big movie that mirrors pieces of their real life drama.
But everything just felt... forced to me? We were told basically who Dax and Wil were by whoever's PoV it was going something akin to "typical NAME, and their CHARACTERISTIC ways." Then the script just felt TOO on-the-nose rather than simply the MCs being able to see themselves there. And the writing just felt very jilted and just not great.
So, again, not a horrible book, and it'd probably be an enjoyable quick read to others, but I just could not find myself invested at all. The only reason I considered finishing it was because of how quickly it all went by, but then I have other books to read, so why would I do that to myself, you know?
DNF @ 20%
There's nothing horribly wrong with this book, but there's nothing really good about it either? I mean, I suppose that the writing is really breezy, so one can get through 20% of the book in a blink like I did. But just nothing about this book stuck. The premise is interesting enough. Two teen-stars from a popular teen show, the different ways they went in life, then coming back together for a big movie that mirrors pieces of their real life drama.
But everything just felt... forced to me? We were told basically who Dax and Wil were by whoever's PoV it was going something akin to "typical NAME, and their CHARACTERISTIC ways." Then the script just felt TOO on-the-nose rather than simply the MCs being able to see themselves there. And the writing just felt very jilted and just not great.
So, again, not a horrible book, and it'd probably be an enjoyable quick read to others, but I just could not find myself invested at all. The only reason I considered finishing it was because of how quickly it all went by, but then I have other books to read, so why would I do that to myself, you know?
December 3, 2024
4.25⭐️ as many people know, i am a second chance romance HATER. there have been few books with this trope that i actually enjoy and this is one of them.
first of all… COSTARS?? one of my favorite micro tropes is actor x actor and this delivered. as for the second chance, i enjoyed that the reason for their original breakup wasn’t this huge horrible event like it usually is. it was just life taking its course and this is so much more realistic to me so the second chance didn’t bother me.
wil…she’s a queen. I loved how perfectly she was written into the “slightly immature and chaotic but also lovable child star” role because, let’s be real, that’s most child stars. even though she could be irrational and impulsive i loved her character and her growth from the then and now POVS.
dax…i LOVED the way this man was written. he was a calm and funny character who perfectly contrasted will’s chaos and they were so perfect together. also I love me some “I never stopped loving you” moments and this man DELIVERED. he was fully IN love and i love him.
also finally this GORGEOUS cover!! thanks to NetGalley for this arc💗💗
first of all… COSTARS?? one of my favorite micro tropes is actor x actor and this delivered. as for the second chance, i enjoyed that the reason for their original breakup wasn’t this huge horrible event like it usually is. it was just life taking its course and this is so much more realistic to me so the second chance didn’t bother me.
wil…she’s a queen. I loved how perfectly she was written into the “slightly immature and chaotic but also lovable child star” role because, let’s be real, that’s most child stars. even though she could be irrational and impulsive i loved her character and her growth from the then and now POVS.
dax…i LOVED the way this man was written. he was a calm and funny character who perfectly contrasted will’s chaos and they were so perfect together. also I love me some “I never stopped loving you” moments and this man DELIVERED. he was fully IN love and i love him.
also finally this GORGEOUS cover!! thanks to NetGalley for this arc💗💗
January 2, 2025
There is something truly addictive laced in this book because I could not put it down! This was one of my favorite reads of the year and lives rent free in my mind. Something about this book was so sweet and so fun, and it was one of those massively entertaining books that is easy to binge.
I am obsessed with the world Caitlin created and the people within it. The movie within the book was so special, and the way she incorporated the plot of the movie with the script (and gorgeous writing!) with Wil and Dax's own story was genius. The dynamic and chemistry between the two is simply magnetic. Some moments between them were so sugary sweet that I didn't know if I should grin for them or cry because I wish it were me, and they are a perfect example of why friends to lovers is such a special trope. There was such a sweetness and comfort in their emotional intimacy, yet they also had the perfect lighthearted and clever banter to keep things fun and upbeat.
As for the characters themselves, I am in love with both. Wil is so fierce and confident, and she is so perfectly sarcastic and witty, yet there is a relatability to her that I loved. Then there is Dax... Oh do I love this man. He was DOWN BAD for this woman from the first page (I mean, when you kick off with bailing someone out of jail, you know it's going to be a blast), and his pining was so excruciating and delightful. He also was the perfect mix of strong and vulnerable, and I really loved how funny and conversational his voice was all throughout.
The dual timeline worked so well in showing who they were, who they are, and who they want to be- both individually and together- and there was compelling emotional arcs woven in for both Wil and Dax. They were both so easy to root for, and I enjoyed seeing their individual growth and respective journeys.
Caitlin absolutely stole my heart with this and made me a forever fan. Thank you so much to NetGalley and 8th Note Press for this amazing ARC. I cannot wait for the world to discover this one this year!
I am obsessed with the world Caitlin created and the people within it. The movie within the book was so special, and the way she incorporated the plot of the movie with the script (and gorgeous writing!) with Wil and Dax's own story was genius. The dynamic and chemistry between the two is simply magnetic. Some moments between them were so sugary sweet that I didn't know if I should grin for them or cry because I wish it were me, and they are a perfect example of why friends to lovers is such a special trope. There was such a sweetness and comfort in their emotional intimacy, yet they also had the perfect lighthearted and clever banter to keep things fun and upbeat.
As for the characters themselves, I am in love with both. Wil is so fierce and confident, and she is so perfectly sarcastic and witty, yet there is a relatability to her that I loved. Then there is Dax... Oh do I love this man. He was DOWN BAD for this woman from the first page (I mean, when you kick off with bailing someone out of jail, you know it's going to be a blast), and his pining was so excruciating and delightful. He also was the perfect mix of strong and vulnerable, and I really loved how funny and conversational his voice was all throughout.
The dual timeline worked so well in showing who they were, who they are, and who they want to be- both individually and together- and there was compelling emotional arcs woven in for both Wil and Dax. They were both so easy to root for, and I enjoyed seeing their individual growth and respective journeys.
Caitlin absolutely stole my heart with this and made me a forever fan. Thank you so much to NetGalley and 8th Note Press for this amazing ARC. I cannot wait for the world to discover this one this year!
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January 29, 2025Ooooooh, what an enjoyable read!
I was really anticipating this book, and it did not disappoint. It's got "if former Disney Channel stars reunited on a movie set as adults and fell back in love" energy and I was HERE. FOR. IT. Former friends to lovers second chance is my kryptonite, and Cross did this so well. The writing is engaging and beautiful, the characters are well-developed, and the plot is captivating from start to finish. A delicious read.
Can't wait to read what Caitlin Cross writes next.
Thank you to 8th Note Press and Netgalley for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest, unbiased review. ON SCREEN & OFF AGAIN is out 2/4/25.
I was really anticipating this book, and it did not disappoint. It's got "if former Disney Channel stars reunited on a movie set as adults and fell back in love" energy and I was HERE. FOR. IT. Former friends to lovers second chance is my kryptonite, and Cross did this so well. The writing is engaging and beautiful, the characters are well-developed, and the plot is captivating from start to finish. A delicious read.
Can't wait to read what Caitlin Cross writes next.
Thank you to 8th Note Press and Netgalley for the e-ARC in exchange for my honest, unbiased review. ON SCREEN & OFF AGAIN is out 2/4/25.
January 16, 2025
I'm obsessed with this book! I loved it so much. I'm on a celebrity romcom kick and this book was perfect. The author clearly knows the industry. The pacing was great. The Hollywood backdrop was perfection, and Dax and Wil were adorable. This was a fantastic debut and I cannot wait to read more from this author.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for my complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own.
Thank you to the publisher and Netgalley for my complimentary ARC. All opinions are my own.
March 19, 2025
4.5 stars
September 2, 2025
It pains me to report that this book was just so bland. Zero chemistry present. Like even when they got together at the end it was extremely rushed and anticlimactic. I was honestly more interested in the plot of To The Stars (the movie both of the actor protagonists were filming) than the story of the actual characters 😂 There were so many random things thrown in there without much explanation. I see the vision— it just was not executed well. Also, I am such a Wil hater because why was she so whiny the entire book? And then when she suddenly decides she finally wants to be with Daxton on a random Thursday she ambushes him at an awards show in front of everyone!? Immediately no. Dax, they could never make me hate you🫶🏼 Goodnight.
Side note: how dare the description of this book compare itself to Love & Other Words and Every Summer After…
Side note: how dare the description of this book compare itself to Love & Other Words and Every Summer After…
November 14, 2024
A seriously swoony, heart-on-your-sleeve romance with a masterclass balance of chemistry, compassion, Jell-O pranks, and all the feels. Dax and Wil’s romance sparkles brighter than the night sky. Someone please give Caitlin Cross a star on the Walk of Fame!
June 10, 2025
Wil had issues from so many different directions but they didn’t seem to leave an actual permanent impact
- things affected her career but not HER, past getting mad and immediately getting over it
- her drinking / going out problem wasn’t addressed because she suddenly didn’t have a drinking problem anymore when she decided not to
- her crime sprees just stopped after getting caught one time
- Her exec producer sexually harassed her as a child and she’s just like …fine other than being kicked off a show. Her career suffered, but we didn't actually dive into how terrible that would have been and the impact it would actually make on her psych (i.e. the drinking problem she just stopped having)
The romance moved way too quick - they fell into bed immediately and conflicts kept popping up and then being glossed over. Despite the fact that no conflict lasted long she was still opposed to the relationship. But she kept hooking up with him. It felt like we were being told a lot of things, but not shown, and at times even that felt clunky. I lost track of how many times someone said something and it was followed by "we laughed." It almost read like a first person script with just "he did this then she did this"
The manufactured will they won’t they just kind of ended. There was no real resolution except this one person said something that resonated with Wil, that other people also said and she ignored, but this time it’s different so I can change my mind
Not a huge fan of the super villain stepmom and the lack of accountability from Wil’s dad. She still thinks her pulling away (at 17?! When he didn’t even care if she was in the room when he proposed?!) was the problem?!
Dax’s relationship with his dads was fixed with one conversation? That whole situation felt weird.
- things affected her career but not HER, past getting mad and immediately getting over it
- her drinking / going out problem wasn’t addressed because she suddenly didn’t have a drinking problem anymore when she decided not to
- her crime sprees just stopped after getting caught one time
- Her exec producer sexually harassed her as a child and she’s just like …fine other than being kicked off a show. Her career suffered, but we didn't actually dive into how terrible that would have been and the impact it would actually make on her psych (i.e. the drinking problem she just stopped having)
The romance moved way too quick - they fell into bed immediately and conflicts kept popping up and then being glossed over. Despite the fact that no conflict lasted long she was still opposed to the relationship. But she kept hooking up with him. It felt like we were being told a lot of things, but not shown, and at times even that felt clunky. I lost track of how many times someone said something and it was followed by "we laughed." It almost read like a first person script with just "he did this then she did this"
The manufactured will they won’t they just kind of ended. There was no real resolution except this one person said something that resonated with Wil, that other people also said and she ignored, but this time it’s different so I can change my mind
Not a huge fan of the super villain stepmom and the lack of accountability from Wil’s dad. She still thinks her pulling away (at 17?! When he didn’t even care if she was in the room when he proposed?!) was the problem?!
Dax’s relationship with his dads was fixed with one conversation? That whole situation felt weird.
January 22, 2025
Read This Book If…The Notebook is one of your favorite movies!
⭐️⭐️💫/5
On Screen & Off Again by Caitlin Cross
Genre: romance
Spice Level: 1/5🌶, closed door
Setting: Los Angeles and South Carolina
POV: dual, 1st person, present tense
Tropes: dual timeline, second chance, childhood friends to lovers to strangers to lovers, celebrities, neighbors
My Thoughts:
As someone who LOVES a second chance romance with a dual timeline, I was so excited for this read! Unfortunately, it fell a little flat for me.
There was not enough chemistry and tension between these characters, and absolutely no steam on page. It’s totally fine for a romance to be closed door, but it felt like there was no lead-up to the door being slammed in my face.
I think this story would have benefited from there being at least 10 years between timelines. 24 is still so young and it didn’t feel like these characters had matured at all.
While in movie they’re starring in sounded good (heavily inspired by The Notebook), there was a ton of script in the book that could have been dedicated to the two of them actually working through their relationship while acting together.
Overall, the writing wasn’t bad, I just thought the characters and their relationship could have been fleshed out more.
Memorable Quote: “You’re the only person who makes me feel found instead of lost.”
Thank you to the publisher for my advance copy!
⭐️⭐️💫/5
On Screen & Off Again by Caitlin Cross
Genre: romance
Spice Level: 1/5🌶, closed door
Setting: Los Angeles and South Carolina
POV: dual, 1st person, present tense
Tropes: dual timeline, second chance, childhood friends to lovers to strangers to lovers, celebrities, neighbors
My Thoughts:
As someone who LOVES a second chance romance with a dual timeline, I was so excited for this read! Unfortunately, it fell a little flat for me.
There was not enough chemistry and tension between these characters, and absolutely no steam on page. It’s totally fine for a romance to be closed door, but it felt like there was no lead-up to the door being slammed in my face.
I think this story would have benefited from there being at least 10 years between timelines. 24 is still so young and it didn’t feel like these characters had matured at all.
While in movie they’re starring in sounded good (heavily inspired by The Notebook), there was a ton of script in the book that could have been dedicated to the two of them actually working through their relationship while acting together.
Overall, the writing wasn’t bad, I just thought the characters and their relationship could have been fleshed out more.
Memorable Quote: “You’re the only person who makes me feel found instead of lost.”
Thank you to the publisher for my advance copy!
March 12, 2025
A classic second chance romance that will pull at your heart and have you desperate for them to get back together the entire time. It’s dual timeline and dual pov to reveal how they first met and broke up woven into them finding each other again and it’s so good. It’s easy to read and the lighthearted banter and teasing is so sweet.
Read this if you’re in the mood for….
- closed door spice
- child hood friends to lovers
- second chance romance
- co-stars in a movie
- he falls first and is so gone
Their romance is so easy to love. It’s ironic that this is about a childhood best friends that are child actors and then reconnect as co-stars in a romance movie because this would be such a good move lol it’s engaging and you’re itching for them to just finally give in the entire time.
Here are a few of my favorite things…
- he’s such a nerd and I love it
- their banter and teasing that comes from knowing each other intrinsically
- the balance of dual timeline is perfectly done
- the movie script crushed me in the best way
I will be adding this to my recommendations for a no spice romance!
Read this if you’re in the mood for….
- closed door spice
- child hood friends to lovers
- second chance romance
- co-stars in a movie
- he falls first and is so gone
Their romance is so easy to love. It’s ironic that this is about a childhood best friends that are child actors and then reconnect as co-stars in a romance movie because this would be such a good move lol it’s engaging and you’re itching for them to just finally give in the entire time.
Here are a few of my favorite things…
- he’s such a nerd and I love it
- their banter and teasing that comes from knowing each other intrinsically
- the balance of dual timeline is perfectly done
- the movie script crushed me in the best way
I will be adding this to my recommendations for a no spice romance!
July 1, 2025
I should’ve DNF’d, but sometimes you gotta see it all the way through. Main character Wil is so incredibly annoying and insufferable. From making Daxon (someone she hasn’t spoken to in 7 years) bail her out, to FORCING him to bail her TWO FRIENDS out too? AND THEN, in a flashback, telling him not to GO TO YALE because “stay with me instead🥺”omg im enraged. Incredibly entitled. She acts like a 12 year old.
Their chemistry is nonexistent. There is zero tension. The only charming part of this is Dax.
The writing could not be worse, to be quite frank. It was incredibly cringe. It was basically insta love but with ZEROOOOOO chemistry and weird comments. Literally everything Dax does makes her “want to pull him in and never let him go” or pounce on him or devour him and THEN never let him go or some variation. Like, can we not use the same sentence rewritten every 5 seconds?
“The instructor takes Dax's hand and pulls it off my waist to land between my shoulder blades, and I wrestle with a sudden urge to let out a feral, dissenting shriek that would shatter the mirrors along all four walls in here.”
The word “feral” being used makes my skin crawl.
I hardly EVER write reviews this scathing but boy this was… yeah I need to learn to read reviews before buying books.
The only thing 2 things I enjoyed (and only reason it got more than 1 star) are the Hollywood scenery, and the fact that it was a fast enough paced story that it kept my ADHD attention. I liked the calls to the Santa Ana winds and the 101. But if you’re not familiar with this area, you might be a little confused.
Good thing is, this went by fast because 15% of this is literally just a movie script👍🏻
Their chemistry is nonexistent. There is zero tension. The only charming part of this is Dax.
The writing could not be worse, to be quite frank. It was incredibly cringe. It was basically insta love but with ZEROOOOOO chemistry and weird comments. Literally everything Dax does makes her “want to pull him in and never let him go” or pounce on him or devour him and THEN never let him go or some variation. Like, can we not use the same sentence rewritten every 5 seconds?
“The instructor takes Dax's hand and pulls it off my waist to land between my shoulder blades, and I wrestle with a sudden urge to let out a feral, dissenting shriek that would shatter the mirrors along all four walls in here.”
The word “feral” being used makes my skin crawl.
I hardly EVER write reviews this scathing but boy this was… yeah I need to learn to read reviews before buying books.
The only thing 2 things I enjoyed (and only reason it got more than 1 star) are the Hollywood scenery, and the fact that it was a fast enough paced story that it kept my ADHD attention. I liked the calls to the Santa Ana winds and the 101. But if you’re not familiar with this area, you might be a little confused.
Good thing is, this went by fast because 15% of this is literally just a movie script👍🏻
November 16, 2024
I had the absolute privilege of reading this book before release, and I'm a huge fan. Wil is a complex protagonist with a streak of self-sabotaging behavior brought on by a childhood in the spotlight. Dax is her ex-costar/best friend/boyfriend (who feels like he would be my best friend) that left her behind for a shot to eventually be an A-list actor. When they're cast as the romantic leads in a big movie years later, their chemistry on screen & off is palpable. They care for each other in a way that only people with deep shared history can.
I appreciated their growth as individuals, as long friends, and as a couple, and LOVED that the characters didn't magically become unflawed. They feel like real people, like real celebrities you'd read about who have lived full lives. But also they have the cutest moments that make you melt. Like the Jim knowing Pam's favorite flavor of yogurt kind of moments.
10/10 would recommend.
I appreciated their growth as individuals, as long friends, and as a couple, and LOVED that the characters didn't magically become unflawed. They feel like real people, like real celebrities you'd read about who have lived full lives. But also they have the cutest moments that make you melt. Like the Jim knowing Pam's favorite flavor of yogurt kind of moments.
10/10 would recommend.
February 17, 2025
Childhood sweethearts Wilhelmina Chase and Daxon Avery reunite years after their hit TV show ended, now co-starring in a high-stakes film. Wil’s career is in shambles, while Dax is on the rise, but their undeniable chemistry, both onscreen and off, is impossible to ignore. Told through dual timelines, the story beautifully captures their past and present, weaving in the emotional depth of their film’s script. Wil’s growth from reckless starlet to serious actress was engaging, and Dax’s unwavering devotion was swoon-worthy. Though I wanted more buildup in key moments, this was a heartfelt second-chance romance that I couldn’t put down. I’ll definitely read more from Caitlin Cross.
dnf
August 3, 2025*DNF*
Copy kindly received from New South Books for an honest review.
This one sounded really good but unfortunately I just couldn't get into it. The heroine, Wilhelmina was annoying me and I just couldn't look past that unfortunately. Just not for me, but I'm sure there will be plenty of others who enjoy this one as the synopsis does sound good.
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Copy kindly received from New South Books for an honest review.
This one sounded really good but unfortunately I just couldn't get into it. The heroine, Wilhelmina was annoying me and I just couldn't look past that unfortunately. Just not for me, but I'm sure there will be plenty of others who enjoy this one as the synopsis does sound good.
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March 3, 2025
I normally stick with mystery/thriller genre books but I this one sounded fun when I saw it in the Goodreads Giveaways and I ended up winning! I really enjoyed this like I thought I would. It was a short and quick read but I really enjoyed the script sections of the book as well since the main characters are filming a movie. It made for a fun element within the story. I would recommend this to friends.
January 28, 2025
This is the stuff of fanfiction dreams, truly. Wilhemina and Daxon were child stars on an extremely popular TV show, but had a bad breakup when the show ended. Seven years later, Daxon's star is on the rise, while Wil has faded into obscurity. They are reunited on a blockbuster movie, and of course, sparks fly and things get complicated.
I went back and forth on whether to give this book three or four stars, and I landed on four stars because this was a fun, easy read with lots of familiar tropes that were relatively well-executed. I felt the chemistry between Wil and Daxon, but the degree to which I was rooting for them was definitely dampened by the fact that I thought Daxon treated Wil pretty shittily. When he was young, of course, I gave him a bit of a pass (even though I feel like the way he treated her was indicative of how little he actually respected her), but in the present-day timeline, it felt like he was still willing to do anything for his career and he was unwilling to really remedy the rift between them with real accountability. The movie Wil and Daxon are working on is also extremely cheesy, and there was way too much of the script in there for my liking. But this didn't feel like a three-star book to me because it is actually really well written, and I loved Wil as a character.
Thank you to NetGalley and 8th Note Press for an advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review!
I went back and forth on whether to give this book three or four stars, and I landed on four stars because this was a fun, easy read with lots of familiar tropes that were relatively well-executed. I felt the chemistry between Wil and Daxon, but the degree to which I was rooting for them was definitely dampened by the fact that I thought Daxon treated Wil pretty shittily. When he was young, of course, I gave him a bit of a pass (even though I feel like the way he treated her was indicative of how little he actually respected her), but in the present-day timeline, it felt like he was still willing to do anything for his career and he was unwilling to really remedy the rift between them with real accountability. The movie Wil and Daxon are working on is also extremely cheesy, and there was way too much of the script in there for my liking. But this didn't feel like a three-star book to me because it is actually really well written, and I loved Wil as a character.
Thank you to NetGalley and 8th Note Press for an advanced reader's copy in exchange for an honest review!
July 18, 2025
4.5⭐️
I absolutely love this book as a girl who is familiar with the industry and also loves reading. It was such a perfect blend of those two things together. I would say, though if you’re not super familiar with some of the acting industry terms, you might not get certain things but overall, it was a really sweet relaxing read. ❤️
I absolutely love this book as a girl who is familiar with the industry and also loves reading. It was such a perfect blend of those two things together. I would say, though if you’re not super familiar with some of the acting industry terms, you might not get certain things but overall, it was a really sweet relaxing read. ❤️
January 27, 2025
For fans of Famous in Love such as me… yall will eat this up fr
February 1, 2025
Finished this book in one sitting!!
I loved how fast paced it was, i'm definitely a fan of dual timeline and this second chance romance didn't disappoint.
I'm in love with Wil and Dax's story.
I loved how fast paced it was, i'm definitely a fan of dual timeline and this second chance romance didn't disappoint.
I'm in love with Wil and Dax's story.
April 26, 2025
This was such a cute read, I had such a great time reading it!
May 30, 2025
I need THIS on the big screen. 🥰🥰🥰 Swoon.
May 24, 2025
She did the Ryan gosling and Rachel McAdams MTV kiss…. Impeccable 🤌
My only tiff was having him so accomplished at 24 while also graduating from college on time, and being a good dude, and hot, and funny, and a yearner?!?
Does she know that real 24 year olds are assholes and scum of the earth
My only tiff was having him so accomplished at 24 while also graduating from college on time, and being a good dude, and hot, and funny, and a yearner?!?
Does she know that real 24 year olds are assholes and scum of the earth
December 15, 2024
“They’ll bury me one day, but if she called my name, I’d crawl to her from the grave.” -Dax
Obsessed is an understatement! I finished this book about a week ago and still can’t get Wil & Dax out of my head (in the best way). This book was everything I wanted from a second chance Hollywood romance. The contrast of enjoying a mostly light story between the leads while also getting the heartbreaking story of their movie added an extra layer of enjoyment to the book. I laughed out loud, I shed real tears, and when I finished I was sad to say goodbye. Caitlin has immediately earned herself a spot on my auto buy authors list and I cannot wait for this book to come out so everyone can read it!!
Obsessed is an understatement! I finished this book about a week ago and still can’t get Wil & Dax out of my head (in the best way). This book was everything I wanted from a second chance Hollywood romance. The contrast of enjoying a mostly light story between the leads while also getting the heartbreaking story of their movie added an extra layer of enjoyment to the book. I laughed out loud, I shed real tears, and when I finished I was sad to say goodbye. Caitlin has immediately earned herself a spot on my auto buy authors list and I cannot wait for this book to come out so everyone can read it!!
December 19, 2024
🎬 A Hollywood second-chance romance that lights up both the screen and the heart. 🎬
When Wilhelmina Chase and Daxon Avery ruled the small screen in their hit kids’ TV show, they were more than co-stars—they were childhood sweethearts. But after the show’s cancellation, real life came crashing in. Dax moved across the country, and Wil watched her star dim as the years wore on. Now in their twenties, each faces a different Hollywood reality: Dax is on the cusp of A-list stardom, while Wil’s tabloid troubles have her calling the only number she can remember—Dax’s.
A desperate phone call leads to a surprising chance at redemption: Wil earns a last-chance audition for Dax’s upcoming film. On set, the undeniable chemistry that once lit up living rooms everywhere roars back to life, igniting the scenes they share and leaving everyone buzzing. But for Wil, this is more than a love story. It’s a shot at reclaiming her career. For Dax, it’s a reminder that the person who knew him best never really left his heart.
The question is: can they navigate the shaky ground between past resentments and future dreams without letting their newfound spark go up in flames? In the whirlwind of Hollywood hype, the glare of paparazzi lenses, and the gravity of their own complicated history, they must decide if this second shot at stardom comes with a happily ever after attached.
✨ Why You’ll Love It:
• A sizzling second-chance romance that proves the chemistry isn’t just scripted.
• An inside look at Hollywood’s ups and downs, from faded fame to star-making roles.
• Dynamic characters whose shared past makes their reunion all the more meaningful.
• Perfect for readers who love heartfelt angst, witty banter, and a slow-burn that pays off on and off the screen.
On Screen & Off Again is the kind of behind-the-scenes love story that reminds us: sometimes, the best comeback is a shared spotlight—and a happy ending written just for two.
📖 #BookReview #CaitlinCross #OnScreenAndOffAgain #SecondChanceRomance #HollywoodLoveStory #ActorsInLove #MustReadRomance #BookWorm #BookTok #Bookstagram #BooksToRead
When Wilhelmina Chase and Daxon Avery ruled the small screen in their hit kids’ TV show, they were more than co-stars—they were childhood sweethearts. But after the show’s cancellation, real life came crashing in. Dax moved across the country, and Wil watched her star dim as the years wore on. Now in their twenties, each faces a different Hollywood reality: Dax is on the cusp of A-list stardom, while Wil’s tabloid troubles have her calling the only number she can remember—Dax’s.
A desperate phone call leads to a surprising chance at redemption: Wil earns a last-chance audition for Dax’s upcoming film. On set, the undeniable chemistry that once lit up living rooms everywhere roars back to life, igniting the scenes they share and leaving everyone buzzing. But for Wil, this is more than a love story. It’s a shot at reclaiming her career. For Dax, it’s a reminder that the person who knew him best never really left his heart.
The question is: can they navigate the shaky ground between past resentments and future dreams without letting their newfound spark go up in flames? In the whirlwind of Hollywood hype, the glare of paparazzi lenses, and the gravity of their own complicated history, they must decide if this second shot at stardom comes with a happily ever after attached.
✨ Why You’ll Love It:
• A sizzling second-chance romance that proves the chemistry isn’t just scripted.
• An inside look at Hollywood’s ups and downs, from faded fame to star-making roles.
• Dynamic characters whose shared past makes their reunion all the more meaningful.
• Perfect for readers who love heartfelt angst, witty banter, and a slow-burn that pays off on and off the screen.
On Screen & Off Again is the kind of behind-the-scenes love story that reminds us: sometimes, the best comeback is a shared spotlight—and a happy ending written just for two.
📖 #BookReview #CaitlinCross #OnScreenAndOffAgain #SecondChanceRomance #HollywoodLoveStory #ActorsInLove #MustReadRomance #BookWorm #BookTok #Bookstagram #BooksToRead
January 5, 2025
3.5/5⭐️
First off, thank you NetGalley and 8th Note Press for approving my ARC request for this novel in exchange for an honest review! Having said that, let's get into the review. THERE WILL BE SPOILERS!
Immature and selfish... Those are the only words I can use to describe Wilhemina Chase. Daxon Avery however, is a sweet baby angel that should be protected at all costs! From the minute Wil had Dax bail not only her out of jail but her two friends, without making sure that was okay with him, I knew I wasn't going to like her. She turned to this man who she hasn't spoken to in 7 years and said, "Get out your wallet." Like excuse me?? There was no way I could root for her in this story after that unfortunately. She also broke into two different people's houses and hooked up with Dax REPEATEDLY despite saying she needed to focus on her career. She strung this man along and I did not like that. This girl was not a good person, and I truly believe Dax deserved better than her.
As for the actual novel itself, I enjoyed the writing, and I always felt like I could see exactly what the author wanted me to see. The descriptions of the outfits, the movie settings, even the script itself were really well done! I really liked reading the actual script that the characters were reciting because it made me feel like I was in the filming process with them. I think the ending got a little long winded and there were one too many hurdles we had to go through as the reader to get to the point where Wil and Daxon finally ended up together. The payoff was not 100% worth it.
I would recommend this book to people who enjoy deeper looks into Hollywood and celebrity life, but I would not recommend it to someone who doesn't like dual timelines or very-flawed characters. I don't mind when characters have flaws (because everyone does) but when someone is a literal criminal, very inconsistent with their actions and words, and kind of entitled, it's just not for me. I would definitely read another novel by this author; I just hope the FMC is a little more likeable next time.
First off, thank you NetGalley and 8th Note Press for approving my ARC request for this novel in exchange for an honest review! Having said that, let's get into the review. THERE WILL BE SPOILERS!
Immature and selfish... Those are the only words I can use to describe Wilhemina Chase. Daxon Avery however, is a sweet baby angel that should be protected at all costs! From the minute Wil had Dax bail not only her out of jail but her two friends, without making sure that was okay with him, I knew I wasn't going to like her. She turned to this man who she hasn't spoken to in 7 years and said, "Get out your wallet." Like excuse me?? There was no way I could root for her in this story after that unfortunately. She also broke into two different people's houses and hooked up with Dax REPEATEDLY despite saying she needed to focus on her career. She strung this man along and I did not like that. This girl was not a good person, and I truly believe Dax deserved better than her.
As for the actual novel itself, I enjoyed the writing, and I always felt like I could see exactly what the author wanted me to see. The descriptions of the outfits, the movie settings, even the script itself were really well done! I really liked reading the actual script that the characters were reciting because it made me feel like I was in the filming process with them. I think the ending got a little long winded and there were one too many hurdles we had to go through as the reader to get to the point where Wil and Daxon finally ended up together. The payoff was not 100% worth it.
I would recommend this book to people who enjoy deeper looks into Hollywood and celebrity life, but I would not recommend it to someone who doesn't like dual timelines or very-flawed characters. I don't mind when characters have flaws (because everyone does) but when someone is a literal criminal, very inconsistent with their actions and words, and kind of entitled, it's just not for me. I would definitely read another novel by this author; I just hope the FMC is a little more likeable next time.
January 13, 2025
This is a fun second chance rom-com featuring star-crossed movie stars. Childhood sweethearts rekindle their spark while working together on a big movie set. Although it's marketed as New Adult Romance, the story reads more like YA to me.
The book frequently shifts between timelines and perspectives, alternating between the FMC and MMC in "Now" and "Then." It also interweaves the movie script as another timeline. While this approach aligns with the book's cinematic theme, it wasn’t to my liking. I often found myself flipping back or trying to keep track of who and when between the short chapters, which pulled me out of the story. As a result, I ended up reading it over several days instead of being fully engrossed.
The romance is closed door, but the dialogue between the characters is fun. However, I didn’t feel much spark between them. The MMC came across as too vanilla for my tastes, and the FMC felt almost bratty at times.
The plot had some surprising moments and was told in an interesting way, but it felt overly long. I found myself skimming, particularly after the halfway point. The stakes in their relationship never felt as high as the characters made them out to be, and the Hollywood lifestyle issues were a bit unrelatable, or maybe just not to my taste.
Overall, the writing was fine, and the movie-style format might appeal to some readers, but it didn’t work for me.
Spice: 2/5
Plot: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
My Enjoyment: 3.5/5
***I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
The book frequently shifts between timelines and perspectives, alternating between the FMC and MMC in "Now" and "Then." It also interweaves the movie script as another timeline. While this approach aligns with the book's cinematic theme, it wasn’t to my liking. I often found myself flipping back or trying to keep track of who and when between the short chapters, which pulled me out of the story. As a result, I ended up reading it over several days instead of being fully engrossed.
The romance is closed door, but the dialogue between the characters is fun. However, I didn’t feel much spark between them. The MMC came across as too vanilla for my tastes, and the FMC felt almost bratty at times.
The plot had some surprising moments and was told in an interesting way, but it felt overly long. I found myself skimming, particularly after the halfway point. The stakes in their relationship never felt as high as the characters made them out to be, and the Hollywood lifestyle issues were a bit unrelatable, or maybe just not to my taste.
Overall, the writing was fine, and the movie-style format might appeal to some readers, but it didn’t work for me.
Spice: 2/5
Plot: 4/5
Writing: 4/5
My Enjoyment: 3.5/5
***I received an ARC in exchange for an honest review
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