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Charming Irish #4
Forever Flames
Twenty years. One unforgettable flame. Some love stories never burn out.
I never wanted fame.
All I ever needed was her.
Stevie Hayes set my world on fire from the moment we met.
First kiss. First love. First time. The girl next door who became my whole future.
Late-night rehearsals. Promises whispered in the dark. A fire so intense it felt eternal.
She believed in me when no one else did.
Then life pulled us apart.
Different paths. Different cities. A slow unraveling I never saw coming.
I thought letting her go would set her free.
Instead, it broke us.
Years later, tragedy brings us back together.
Older now. Scarred. Still burning for something we never stopped wanting.
Old wounds resurface. Hard truths come to light.
The spark? It never left.
We were never supposed to fall apart.
Now I’ll fight like hell to put us back together.
Forever Flames is a swoon-worthy, second-chance rockstar romance packed with emotional angst, soul-deep devotion, and the kind of once-in-a-lifetime love that never truly dies.
I never wanted fame.
All I ever needed was her.
Stevie Hayes set my world on fire from the moment we met.
First kiss. First love. First time. The girl next door who became my whole future.
Late-night rehearsals. Promises whispered in the dark. A fire so intense it felt eternal.
She believed in me when no one else did.
Then life pulled us apart.
Different paths. Different cities. A slow unraveling I never saw coming.
I thought letting her go would set her free.
Instead, it broke us.
Years later, tragedy brings us back together.
Older now. Scarred. Still burning for something we never stopped wanting.
Old wounds resurface. Hard truths come to light.
The spark? It never left.
We were never supposed to fall apart.
Now I’ll fight like hell to put us back together.
Forever Flames is a swoon-worthy, second-chance rockstar romance packed with emotional angst, soul-deep devotion, and the kind of once-in-a-lifetime love that never truly dies.
434 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 13, 2025
5 people are currently reading
82 people want to read
About the author
Kaylene Winter
28 books562 followersKaylene Winter is an Amazon best-selling author of steamy, contemporary romance.
Each character-driven novel is filled with snappy dialogue, pop-culture references and enough steam to make you fan yourself. Kaylene weaves authenticity, emotion and angst into a turbulent rollercoaster ride of love, passion and soul-searing romance always ending with a delicious HEA.
Kaylene lives in Seattle with her amazing Irish husband and Pomsky, Phalen. She loves creating art of all kinds.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 47 reviews
October 13, 2025
Epic Romance
If you have read Kaylene Winter’s books you know she always delivers amazing books but this book was exceptional. This is Stevie and Padraig’s story and its one I won’t soon forget with the way this author spun a story that broke my heart. They had been together since childhood and throughout life they faced things together and apart only to be given their second chance.
This was an amazing story that will stick with more for a while. I highly recommend this book.
If you have read Kaylene Winter’s books you know she always delivers amazing books but this book was exceptional. This is Stevie and Padraig’s story and its one I won’t soon forget with the way this author spun a story that broke my heart. They had been together since childhood and throughout life they faced things together and apart only to be given their second chance.
This was an amazing story that will stick with more for a while. I highly recommend this book.
October 20, 2025
I've always heard — and I'm sure you have as well — that things happen for a reason. Well, this story brings that saying to reality in so many ways.
Kaylene takes readers on a journey of friendship, love, hardache, and secondchances. I love the way Kaylene gives you the couples backstory, in a way that you feel as if you were right there with them playing in the backyard or hanging out while Liam and Padraig were jamming with their band, growing up right along side of them. I will say that not everything was coming up roses, there were a few difficult things going on as well, I highly recommend reading the CW/TW (Sesitivity Statement) at the begining of the book.
𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewFF4
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with Books
You can find me here: Nadine Bookaholic's Links
Kaylene takes readers on a journey of friendship, love, hardache, and secondchances. I love the way Kaylene gives you the couples backstory, in a way that you feel as if you were right there with them playing in the backyard or hanging out while Liam and Padraig were jamming with their band, growing up right along side of them. I will say that not everything was coming up roses, there were a few difficult things going on as well, I highly recommend reading the CW/TW (Sesitivity Statement) at the begining of the book.
𝑪𝒐𝒏𝒕𝒊𝒏𝒖𝒆 𝒓𝒆𝒂𝒅𝒊𝒏𝒈 𝒎𝒚 𝒓𝒆𝒗𝒊𝒆𝒘 𝒉𝒆𝒓𝒆 ➡ https://bit.ly/NBReviewFF4
**I have voluntarily reviewed an Advanced Readers Copy of this book for my Blog, Nadine's Obsessed with BooksYou can find me here: Nadine Bookaholic's Links
October 14, 2025
Rockstar romances are my catnip and this book definitely captured my attention while playing with my heartstrings. It kept me glued to the pages, entertained by all the angst and ups and downs of two past loves reconnecting after tragedy. From the sweetness of young love, to the heartbreak of letting go, to finding your way back to what's meant to be…. This story put me through the emotional wringer in another well crafted tale from Ms. Winter.
Padraig McGloughlin and Stevie Hayes met as children, next door neighbors who slowly became more over the years. They were each other's firsts in every way before fate had them going their separate ways in pursuit of dreams. Years later they find themselves once again within arm's length, navigating feelings of regret and uncertainty in a journey that was sometimes frustrating but always inevitable. When it comes to heroes, Padraig showed himself to be a bit imperfect. He's a man with a good heart who's quick to sacrifice his happiness for others. At times too his words could be hurtful as his insecurities had him lashing out. But these imperfections made him all the more real and his decision to finally fight for Stevie ultimately had me rooting for him. Stevie too left me frustrated at times, her choices leaving me bewildered, but her struggles were all too human and it made their pairing even more emotional.
Readers looking for a story full of rollercoaster emotions will find this a perfectly imperfect romance, a tale of a second chance meant to be. Along with a compelling main couple, there were glimpses of past characters as well as focusing a bit more on Liam (Padraig's twin brother), who will take the lead in the next installment in the Charming Irish series. On a whole, this was a realistic romance with characters you could relate to in a journey to HEA that was full of bumps and bruises that will keep you glued to the pages.
Padraig McGloughlin and Stevie Hayes met as children, next door neighbors who slowly became more over the years. They were each other's firsts in every way before fate had them going their separate ways in pursuit of dreams. Years later they find themselves once again within arm's length, navigating feelings of regret and uncertainty in a journey that was sometimes frustrating but always inevitable. When it comes to heroes, Padraig showed himself to be a bit imperfect. He's a man with a good heart who's quick to sacrifice his happiness for others. At times too his words could be hurtful as his insecurities had him lashing out. But these imperfections made him all the more real and his decision to finally fight for Stevie ultimately had me rooting for him. Stevie too left me frustrated at times, her choices leaving me bewildered, but her struggles were all too human and it made their pairing even more emotional.
Readers looking for a story full of rollercoaster emotions will find this a perfectly imperfect romance, a tale of a second chance meant to be. Along with a compelling main couple, there were glimpses of past characters as well as focusing a bit more on Liam (Padraig's twin brother), who will take the lead in the next installment in the Charming Irish series. On a whole, this was a realistic romance with characters you could relate to in a journey to HEA that was full of bumps and bruises that will keep you glued to the pages.
October 15, 2025
I am voluntarily writing this honest review after reading a free ARC of this novel via the author. Today’s the day. Forever Flames, CHARMING IRISH Book 4, by Kaylene Winter is LIVE! This story took me on a journey—first love, heartbreak, and the forever that never truly fades. This is the story of Padraig and Stevie, a second chance romance where a musician returns to help his former fiancée and childhood sweetheart, now a single mother, proving his enduring love despite a difficult breakup that had taken their lives in different directions. This was a well written, emotional love story that spanned decades, starting in the present and then flashing back to the beginning and bringing their story forward. It was a very effective way to tell this heart-wrenching story and truly captured the intensity of first love and perspective of the very young as well as the later more mature, but still very passionate, enduring love that survived separation, differing life goals, other relationships, and trauma. FOREVER FLAMES is a spicy open door, first person, dual POV contemporary rockstar romance with tropes including second chance to forever, childhood friends to lovers, single parent, and he falls first. I was so desperate to see this couple make it to their happily ever after and devoured the book very quickly. This is my favorite book in the CHARMING IRISH series, rivaling the intense, emotional rollercoaster rides that each book in the LTZ series provided. I am now anxiously awaiting the story of Padraig’s twin, Liam. I recommend this book for readers of contemporary rockstar romance who enjoy a story that takes you on a relationship journey that lasts decades rather than weeks or months.
October 9, 2025
Wow! Book 4 in the Charming Irish is finally here!!!
Too say, I was dying to read Padraig's story was an understatement. Padraig and Liam have been such intriguing side characters through so many of Kaylene's books. I am simultaneously wrecked and elated by this book.
Stevie and Padraig's Love story is definitely an epic one.
From best childhood pals to high-school / college sweethearts to breaking apart 💔 years later.
Fame and fear wove their way through S&P's complicated love story. My heart was here for the whole rollercoaster ride.
This second chance love really resonated how what our hearts believe to be true can sometimes be overridden by fear. Padraig's soul is so selfless when it comes to those he loves. He holds everyone up, sometimes to his detriment. His connection to Liam his twin is fascinating. I love reading about a twin bond. Stevie is a complicated, strong FML. Sometimes you will want to tell her to "get over it,"but she surprised me most of all.
I ended up loving her by the last third of the book. So my final thought is to tell you read this series you will not be disappointed. I promise it has enough angst for those who love it and enough beautiful , messy, complicated love to make your heart squishy.
Too say, I was dying to read Padraig's story was an understatement. Padraig and Liam have been such intriguing side characters through so many of Kaylene's books. I am simultaneously wrecked and elated by this book.
Stevie and Padraig's Love story is definitely an epic one.
From best childhood pals to high-school / college sweethearts to breaking apart 💔 years later.
Fame and fear wove their way through S&P's complicated love story. My heart was here for the whole rollercoaster ride.
This second chance love really resonated how what our hearts believe to be true can sometimes be overridden by fear. Padraig's soul is so selfless when it comes to those he loves. He holds everyone up, sometimes to his detriment. His connection to Liam his twin is fascinating. I love reading about a twin bond. Stevie is a complicated, strong FML. Sometimes you will want to tell her to "get over it,"but she surprised me most of all.
I ended up loving her by the last third of the book. So my final thought is to tell you read this series you will not be disappointed. I promise it has enough angst for those who love it and enough beautiful , messy, complicated love to make your heart squishy.
October 1, 2025
Wow. Just wow! Stevie and Padraig were definitely a meant to be couple! Forever Flames takes you through the beginning, middle, end and reconnection of their relationship. While Padraig is loyal to a fault between his family, band and Stevie, they both have to navigate through the ips and downs. When Stevie finally decides to do something for herself, things start to unravel. They go their separate ways and an unfortunate accident happens. Secrets are kept, babies are born, grief takes hold and surprises happen but in the end, love wins. I think Padraig may just be my favorite McGloughlin brother!!
October 3, 2025
I think Kaylene just wrote a story that ripped my heart out and slowly pieced it back together again, in real slow mo. OMG this story was epic, so much emotion, so many tears, so many years! I have all the feels for Stevie, the cards life dealt her.. those gorgeous children, just thinking back to the book makes me weep. My favourite couple in the series so far, a standalone with interconnected characters. Life is indeed complicated, and these two knew they were meant to be forever, even from such a young age. Best friends since they were 7 yrs old! Gosh the drama in this story kept me turning the pages for more. A well deserved 5 stars, if not more!
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
I voluntarily reviewed a free advance copy of this book provided by the author. The opinions expressed are my own
October 13, 2025
Wow! I absolutely loved this book. Amazing characters and wonderful plot. Very beautifully written and easy to read.
October 16, 2025
Well, what an emotional rollercoaster this book took me on.
Stevie and Padraig were everything to each other until they weren't. They were just kids when they first got together and were each other's first for everything, but their lives saw them going in different directions the older they got, leading to them going their separate ways. But you know what they say about soul mates, if your meant to be, you will find your way back. We'll you'll need to read to find out.
This is the first book I have read by Kaylene Winter, but I will definitely be going back and reading more.
Stevie and Padraig were everything to each other until they weren't. They were just kids when they first got together and were each other's first for everything, but their lives saw them going in different directions the older they got, leading to them going their separate ways. But you know what they say about soul mates, if your meant to be, you will find your way back. We'll you'll need to read to find out.
This is the first book I have read by Kaylene Winter, but I will definitely be going back and reading more.
October 5, 2025
An angsty and emotional tale for Padraig McGloughlin in Forever Flames, the fourth book in the Charming Irish series. He had found his forever love at an early age, right next door in Stevie Hayes and claimed her when they were at high school but sometimes love isn’t always forever when you are at different points in your life and your paths diverge.
Padraig and Stevie’s story begins in the present day before then going back fifteen years to their school days detailing their romance and subsequent break up. There’s no cheating and there was never any doubt that these characters loved one another, Stevie just had her own dreams that didn’t involve chasing stardom and while Padraig was ready to follow her, she knew he wouldn’t be happy, torn between her and his twin. Ultimately they live their lives through the usual births, deaths and marriages, always on the periphery of each others lives due to their family’s friendships, but for Padraig, Stevie has always been ‘the one’ and when fate gives him a second chance he grabs it. But just when everything is falling into place for them, fate has one last kick in store. I feel that I should love the character of Padraig, he was such a nice guy, but he came across as a bit of a doormat with a hidden mean streak. Yes, he wanted to please people but usually at the expense of Stevie. At times I felt like he resented Stevie and wanted to punish her for leaving him and his actions particularly in the last few chapters reinforced this as he deliberately hurt her with his words. He really didn’t come out of this book in a good light and neither did his twin Liam, so it’ll be interesting to read his story to see if it changes my opinion of both him and his twin seeing things from another perspective.
Padraig and Stevie’s story begins in the present day before then going back fifteen years to their school days detailing their romance and subsequent break up. There’s no cheating and there was never any doubt that these characters loved one another, Stevie just had her own dreams that didn’t involve chasing stardom and while Padraig was ready to follow her, she knew he wouldn’t be happy, torn between her and his twin. Ultimately they live their lives through the usual births, deaths and marriages, always on the periphery of each others lives due to their family’s friendships, but for Padraig, Stevie has always been ‘the one’ and when fate gives him a second chance he grabs it. But just when everything is falling into place for them, fate has one last kick in store. I feel that I should love the character of Padraig, he was such a nice guy, but he came across as a bit of a doormat with a hidden mean streak. Yes, he wanted to please people but usually at the expense of Stevie. At times I felt like he resented Stevie and wanted to punish her for leaving him and his actions particularly in the last few chapters reinforced this as he deliberately hurt her with his words. He really didn’t come out of this book in a good light and neither did his twin Liam, so it’ll be interesting to read his story to see if it changes my opinion of both him and his twin seeing things from another perspective.
October 13, 2025
This was a heart-wrenching read that tore our hearts out. Stevie and Padraig's story was filled with pain, sorrow, angst, family drama, fame, surprises, and second chances.
The story was realistic and evoked a range of emotions, with twists and turns that kept us on edge. The transition from friends to lovers was portrayed bravely, with the characters laying their hearts on the line.
Padraig and Stevie had been everything to each other since childhood, but life took them in different directions.
Padraig's twin brother played a significant role in their love story, and his influence was deeply felt.
Padraig was a favorite character, flawed yet lovable, and his deep love for Stevie was evident. Stevie, too, was portrayed as bright, kind, and supportive. Their soulmate connection was palpable from a young age.
The chemistry between the couple was intense and passionate, igniting the pages with their fiery connection. The story's timeline, shifting between past and present, effectively captured the couple's journey as life moved on. Despite the challenges and obstacles they faced, the characters' resilience and determination shone through. The emotional depth of the story brought tears to our eyes, and the children in the story added a heartwarming touch.
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Overall, this was a captivating story with compelling characters and dramatic twists. The second chance the couple received came at a cost, but their enduring bond and soulmate connection left us hopeful for their future reunion. Their journey of self-discovery and open communication paved the way for a brighter future together.
The story was realistic and evoked a range of emotions, with twists and turns that kept us on edge. The transition from friends to lovers was portrayed bravely, with the characters laying their hearts on the line.
Padraig and Stevie had been everything to each other since childhood, but life took them in different directions.
Padraig's twin brother played a significant role in their love story, and his influence was deeply felt.
Padraig was a favorite character, flawed yet lovable, and his deep love for Stevie was evident. Stevie, too, was portrayed as bright, kind, and supportive. Their soulmate connection was palpable from a young age.
The chemistry between the couple was intense and passionate, igniting the pages with their fiery connection. The story's timeline, shifting between past and present, effectively captured the couple's journey as life moved on. Despite the challenges and obstacles they faced, the characters' resilience and determination shone through. The emotional depth of the story brought tears to our eyes, and the children in the story added a heartwarming touch.
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Overall, this was a captivating story with compelling characters and dramatic twists. The second chance the couple received came at a cost, but their enduring bond and soulmate connection left us hopeful for their future reunion. Their journey of self-discovery and open communication paved the way for a brighter future together.
October 13, 2025
Oh these McLoughlin men, they just keep getting better. Do I love Padraig more than the others… I might just.
This story was such a beautiful and heart wrenching tale of when two people are perfect for each other but learn it too early. I loved the early days story and hearing all about their childhood memories with each other but also the struggles to want to be their own person as well.
I think we all struggle with the what ifs in life and this story was so wonderfully written to see the what if and the what’s to come.
Padraig is by far the shining star of this story and I was rooting so hard for him and just wanted to see him happy. His selflessness and how he always put others before himself was both inspiring and heartbreaking. To watch someone give so much of themselves but lose what they are is a story too many of us hold true. I was so happy by the end of the book to see him come back to life.
Kaylene’s stories just keep getting better and better and I cannot wait for what is to come.
This story was such a beautiful and heart wrenching tale of when two people are perfect for each other but learn it too early. I loved the early days story and hearing all about their childhood memories with each other but also the struggles to want to be their own person as well.
I think we all struggle with the what ifs in life and this story was so wonderfully written to see the what if and the what’s to come.
Padraig is by far the shining star of this story and I was rooting so hard for him and just wanted to see him happy. His selflessness and how he always put others before himself was both inspiring and heartbreaking. To watch someone give so much of themselves but lose what they are is a story too many of us hold true. I was so happy by the end of the book to see him come back to life.
Kaylene’s stories just keep getting better and better and I cannot wait for what is to come.
October 19, 2025
Forever Flames by Kaylene Winter is a captivating and emotionally charged second-chance romance that kept me hooked throughout. The story follows Padraig and Stevie, first loves who were torn apart by life’s circumstances but never lost their spark. Kaylene Winter expertly blends heartfelt emotion with engaging character development, making their reunion feel both authentic and deeply satisfying.
I appreciated the seamless switching between present-day scenes and flashbacks to their high school romance, which added rich layers to their story. Both leads are well-drawn individuals with strong ambitions and vulnerabilities that make their journey compelling. The involvement of family and friends added warmth and complexity to the narrative.
While the plot follows familiar second-chance romance beats, Winter’s writing style, snappy dialogue, and emotional depth kept the story fresh and engaging. A bit more conflict could have raised the stakes even higher, but overall, the book was a fast-paced and enjoyable read with just the right amount of steam and angst.
Forever Flames is a solid 4-star read for fans of contemporary romance who enjoy meaningful, character-driven stories about love rekindled and fighting for a second chance.
I appreciated the seamless switching between present-day scenes and flashbacks to their high school romance, which added rich layers to their story. Both leads are well-drawn individuals with strong ambitions and vulnerabilities that make their journey compelling. The involvement of family and friends added warmth and complexity to the narrative.
While the plot follows familiar second-chance romance beats, Winter’s writing style, snappy dialogue, and emotional depth kept the story fresh and engaging. A bit more conflict could have raised the stakes even higher, but overall, the book was a fast-paced and enjoyable read with just the right amount of steam and angst.
Forever Flames is a solid 4-star read for fans of contemporary romance who enjoy meaningful, character-driven stories about love rekindled and fighting for a second chance.
October 13, 2025
This is the fourth book in this impressive series, and this is Padraig and Stevie’s story.
These two were high school sweethearts and first loves, until Padraig leaves on tour, and Stevie moves on without him to get married, have children, and a stable life. Now Stevie is a widowed single mom, and Padraig is back, determined to make her his.
This story flits between the past and the present.
This is a well written easy to read, slow burn, emotional roller coaster, with found family, friendships, angst, drama, tension, trauma, loss, grief, secrets, childhood friends / lovers, revelations, soulmates, second chances, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, twisted, and heartwrenching, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from these talented authors’ whose work I highly recommend.
These two were high school sweethearts and first loves, until Padraig leaves on tour, and Stevie moves on without him to get married, have children, and a stable life. Now Stevie is a widowed single mom, and Padraig is back, determined to make her his.
This story flits between the past and the present.
This is a well written easy to read, slow burn, emotional roller coaster, with found family, friendships, angst, drama, tension, trauma, loss, grief, secrets, childhood friends / lovers, revelations, soulmates, second chances, undeniable chemistry, and love, which leads to an entertaining, tragic, twisted, and heartwrenching, addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from these talented authors’ whose work I highly recommend.
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October 18, 2025I have been (im)patiently waiting for Padraig’s story forever and it was so worth the wait… And Stevie??? I can't wait for you to meet her!!
Stevie is Padraig's next door neighbor and they are kindred spirits from a young age. As they grow, a romantic relationship starts to grow. Padraig is focused on music with his band, but Stevie wonders if there might be more out there for her.
Life takes each of them on different paths and as time goes by, it looks like there may be another chance for them… Is love enough to get through the obstacles of the past in order to find a future for them???
‘Forever Flames’ gives us a much deeper understanding into the McGloughin family dynamic. We have caught a glimpse of this family through the McGloughlin Brothers’ love stories, but we really delve into some family difficulties here.
I love Kaylene Winter and can never get enough because she weaves stories of passion, love, pain, and loss into a beacon of hope. At times, it feels as fragile as a breath and then it feels as strong as ten reeds braided together. An absolutely gorgeous love story! ❤️
Stevie is Padraig's next door neighbor and they are kindred spirits from a young age. As they grow, a romantic relationship starts to grow. Padraig is focused on music with his band, but Stevie wonders if there might be more out there for her.
Life takes each of them on different paths and as time goes by, it looks like there may be another chance for them… Is love enough to get through the obstacles of the past in order to find a future for them???
‘Forever Flames’ gives us a much deeper understanding into the McGloughin family dynamic. We have caught a glimpse of this family through the McGloughlin Brothers’ love stories, but we really delve into some family difficulties here.
I love Kaylene Winter and can never get enough because she weaves stories of passion, love, pain, and loss into a beacon of hope. At times, it feels as fragile as a breath and then it feels as strong as ten reeds braided together. An absolutely gorgeous love story! ❤️
October 13, 2025
4.5 stars
I finished this a day or two ago and I am still struggling to write the review worthy of this book. My heart was torn up and put back together, the emotional roller coaster did not want to end, but this is a journey, a messy, complicated, beautiful, angsty, journey.
Stevie and Padraig are not strangers to us, but until now we only knew the basics of Padraig’s story. These two are meant to be together, but it is the ups and downs that makes their story. There are secrets and surprises I did not expect, and then the drama, I was glued to the pages. Their paths are not straight ones, but they do find their way back.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
I finished this a day or two ago and I am still struggling to write the review worthy of this book. My heart was torn up and put back together, the emotional roller coaster did not want to end, but this is a journey, a messy, complicated, beautiful, angsty, journey.
Stevie and Padraig are not strangers to us, but until now we only knew the basics of Padraig’s story. These two are meant to be together, but it is the ups and downs that makes their story. There are secrets and surprises I did not expect, and then the drama, I was glued to the pages. Their paths are not straight ones, but they do find their way back.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
October 13, 2025
Forever Flames, the fourth book in Kaylene Winter’s Charming Irish series, is a deeply emotional and heart-wrenching second-chance romance between Padraig and Stevie. Their story unfolds beautifully across past and present timelines, allowing readers to fully feel the weight of their history, heartbreak, and unbreakable bond.
This isn’t just a love story—it’s a journey of fate, forgiveness, and rediscovery. Padraig and Stevie are true soulmates, and Winter’s storytelling makes you believe that when two people are meant to be, nothing—not time, distance, or pain—can keep them apart.
If you adore music-infused romances layered with raw emotion, passion, and hope, Forever Flames will stay with you long after the final page.
This isn’t just a love story—it’s a journey of fate, forgiveness, and rediscovery. Padraig and Stevie are true soulmates, and Winter’s storytelling makes you believe that when two people are meant to be, nothing—not time, distance, or pain—can keep them apart.
If you adore music-infused romances layered with raw emotion, passion, and hope, Forever Flames will stay with you long after the final page.
October 12, 2025
What an amazing book this was. I was so caught up in the story and Padraig and Stevie stole my heart. Best friends forever, they are given a second chance at love and Padraig will stop at nothing to ensure they are given their second chance, but most importantly, he will stop at nothing to make sure that once they are reunited their love will go until the end of time. This book was emotionally charged with lots of ups and downs and heartbreak but Kaylene Winter never wavered in her writing to ensure that we, as the reader, are continually hooked on the story and the characters. I have slowly discovered that Ms Winter has become one of my go to authors as I know that I am in for a brilliant read with I pick up one of her books.
October 13, 2025
Forever Flames by Kaylene Winter is the story of Padraig and Stevie. Theirs is a story for the ages…They were always an item. But, when events occurred that made them choose…things didn’t go exactly as planned. When situations caused them to choose…yet again…they chose. Again, those choices didn’t bode well for them. After nearly 20 years, they meet up again, their lives deeply changed. But, it could be another chance…
Absolutely loved these two…their foibles, choices, and honest fallibility. Just life choices that we all make…some good…some not so good. Touching, sweet, second-chance romance!!
Absolutely loved these two…their foibles, choices, and honest fallibility. Just life choices that we all make…some good…some not so good. Touching, sweet, second-chance romance!!
October 8, 2025
Stevie and Padraig grew up together and were first loves. Life had different plans for them after college. He travels the works either his band and she takes hold of her career! Years later tragedy strikes and they find themselves facing different futures . They have to make decisions how they want the future to look and exactly how they want to navigate it.
November 1, 2025
Wow, just wow! This book broke my heart and stitched it back together. Stevie and Padraig were meant to be. They were inseparable from the time they were children and it blossom into a love story of the ages. It was a roller coaster of love and sorrow. I predicted the twist at the end from the beginning of the book. It was blatantly clear to me throughout. I give them both credit for knowing their mind and coming back to love. I love how their whole families are interwoven into each book and give us glimpses of characters that we already fell in love with. Can’t wait to see what happens with Liam.
October 24, 2025
Emotional
Kaylene Winter is an incredible storyteller. My heart is always torn to pieces and mended when reading her books. I was completely invested in the characters and storyline. We get to see characters from past books, which added to my investment, but know that it can be read as a standalone. My heart ached and broke. I shed tears for these two characters. I cannot wait for the next book.
*I read this book through the Kindle Unlimited program.
Kaylene Winter is an incredible storyteller. My heart is always torn to pieces and mended when reading her books. I was completely invested in the characters and storyline. We get to see characters from past books, which added to my investment, but know that it can be read as a standalone. My heart ached and broke. I shed tears for these two characters. I cannot wait for the next book.
*I read this book through the Kindle Unlimited program.
October 26, 2025
A second chance romance you feel in your bones
Padarig and Stevie have that one in a lifetime love that burns bright. The story spans decades to get the HEA that we all dream of. The first love forever.
Padarig and Stevie have that one in a lifetime love that burns bright. The story spans decades to get the HEA that we all dream of. The first love forever.
October 23, 2025
I love second chance and this one was so good. I'm glad it showed Padraig and Steve's whole story as it happened and not them just talking about it. The chemistry was great and it was well written.
October 14, 2025
This is a story about young love, heartbreak & tragedy of Stevie & Padraig whom we first got a little glimpse in the Less Than Zero series. They were childhood sweethearts whose paths went in different directions as much as they tried to stay together. Padraig who came from a big Irish family who had their troubles rose to a bit of fame with his twin brother in the music industry & Stevie who didn't want that life followed her own path in the hospitality industry & made a happy life & family. This story takes you through both of their happiest & saddest moments that leads them back to each other. Absolutely loved this story & this series.
October 26, 2025
Amazon
Stevie and Padraig have been each other's person for most of their lives. She's been there for him and his twin, Liam, since before their band took off, even managed them without the title. They thought they'd be together forever, everyone thought so. But she's always had dreams for herself that don't mesh with Padraig's dream of her touring with them, or waiting at home while he tours. So she made the choice to pursue her dream, and Padraig let her walk away, never fighting for her, letting her drift into the arms of someone else. But when tragedy strikes, their second chance could be in their sights for the couple whose connection may have been dimmed by time, but never died completely.
This love story literally spans years. Years of every emotion and feeling - pain, joy, and in the end, years of love. The reader gets to see everything they go through, both individually and together, from the time they meet as children, to the very last word as they get their well deserved, hard fought, forever. Now I'm very anxiously waiting for twin Liam's story.
ARC provided by Wildfire Marketing Solutions for an honest review.
Review: Live Through Books Blog.
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January 18, 2026
Honestly, I can tell you for free with every fiber of my being that reading this book actually did not feel like reading your typical romance novel; it felt more like watching actual, messy human lives play out over twenty years. It was not flashy or overdone like the usual kind of rom-com novels we normally read or hear about; it was quiet, very messy (this I actually really loved), emotional, and had a lot of our everyday trauma. This is the kind of story where you do not even realize how invested you are until you pause and feel that your heart aches and is heavy.
Kaylene finds a way to show how the main character, Padraig, is not in any way a perfect or put-together male lead. He carried years of guilt, grief, and deep family trauma that never really went away—he just learned how to live with it, just like the rest of us. Stevie, on the other hand, was shaped by the usual abandonment and emotional neglect, and you can feel and see how that pain influences every thought and action that she had.
The way they both react to situations, pull away, hesitate, or stay silent instead of saying what they feel is painfully relatable. Also, there are these scenes, like when Padraig’s dad attacks Liam or when Stevie loses her husband, Cooper, that are so graphic that you can vividly imagine every detail like it happened in front of your own eyes. The relatability, the quiet conversations, the moments where either of them clearly feels like opening up but is terrified to do so, and the way past trauma shows up in small, everyday ways rather than big dramatic moments are nothing short of perfect. It felt really raw and unfiltered, without any background music or perfect timing.
I honestly cannot find any issues with the book; the relationships build slowly, and you feel everything with them. Their fears, their hope, their frustration. It was all so relatable. It is a story about how love is not a straight line. It is messy, complicated, and hard, but seeing the ending, it did not feel like “the end.” It felt like saying goodbye to people I actually knew. I honestly think this book deserves more than 5 out of 5 stars. I am really a fan of Kaylene Winter's work.
Kaylene finds a way to show how the main character, Padraig, is not in any way a perfect or put-together male lead. He carried years of guilt, grief, and deep family trauma that never really went away—he just learned how to live with it, just like the rest of us. Stevie, on the other hand, was shaped by the usual abandonment and emotional neglect, and you can feel and see how that pain influences every thought and action that she had.
The way they both react to situations, pull away, hesitate, or stay silent instead of saying what they feel is painfully relatable. Also, there are these scenes, like when Padraig’s dad attacks Liam or when Stevie loses her husband, Cooper, that are so graphic that you can vividly imagine every detail like it happened in front of your own eyes. The relatability, the quiet conversations, the moments where either of them clearly feels like opening up but is terrified to do so, and the way past trauma shows up in small, everyday ways rather than big dramatic moments are nothing short of perfect. It felt really raw and unfiltered, without any background music or perfect timing.
I honestly cannot find any issues with the book; the relationships build slowly, and you feel everything with them. Their fears, their hope, their frustration. It was all so relatable. It is a story about how love is not a straight line. It is messy, complicated, and hard, but seeing the ending, it did not feel like “the end.” It felt like saying goodbye to people I actually knew. I honestly think this book deserves more than 5 out of 5 stars. I am really a fan of Kaylene Winter's work.
October 14, 2025
🤘🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻 Charming Irish Book Four 🤘🏻🤘🏻🤘🏻
The next installment in the Charming Irish series; Forever Flame is a fast paced, second chance romance. As always, I recommend reading a series in order to get the most out of it, but this book can be read as a stand alone in an interconnected series.
In Forever Flame we get Padraig and Stevie’s story, and what a story it was. These two have history together, when we first start their story we start in the present and throughout the book we get flashbacks to when they dated in high school. As each other's first loves, they thought they would be together forever, but sometimes you find the right person at the wrong time. Padraig goes on to live his life in fame, but Stevie has her own dreams she wants to fulfill and goes on to do just that. Though they stay somewhat in each other's lives due to the connections of their families, they aren’t together. But Stevie has always been Pad’s one, and that has never changed. When fate gives them a second chance, Pad grabs it with both hands.
Stevie and Padraig were just a joy to read, both have such drive for family, but stand out as individuals as well. Both have dreams and goals, and nothing would stop them from reaching them. I have to say, Liam played such a big role in their relationship and I wasn’t sure how their reconnection was going to affect that. Overall the plot and storyline was engaging and easy to keep up with, having characters from previous books drop in was a nice addition and the spice was just enough to carry the characters to the next level. Stevie and Padraig were a fun read and I look forward to seeing what comes next from this author.
3.8 ⭐️
2 🌶️
Tropes:
🎸 Second Chance Romance
🎸 Rockstar Romance
🎸 Emotional Roller Coaster
The next installment in the Charming Irish series; Forever Flame is a fast paced, second chance romance. As always, I recommend reading a series in order to get the most out of it, but this book can be read as a stand alone in an interconnected series.
In Forever Flame we get Padraig and Stevie’s story, and what a story it was. These two have history together, when we first start their story we start in the present and throughout the book we get flashbacks to when they dated in high school. As each other's first loves, they thought they would be together forever, but sometimes you find the right person at the wrong time. Padraig goes on to live his life in fame, but Stevie has her own dreams she wants to fulfill and goes on to do just that. Though they stay somewhat in each other's lives due to the connections of their families, they aren’t together. But Stevie has always been Pad’s one, and that has never changed. When fate gives them a second chance, Pad grabs it with both hands.
Stevie and Padraig were just a joy to read, both have such drive for family, but stand out as individuals as well. Both have dreams and goals, and nothing would stop them from reaching them. I have to say, Liam played such a big role in their relationship and I wasn’t sure how their reconnection was going to affect that. Overall the plot and storyline was engaging and easy to keep up with, having characters from previous books drop in was a nice addition and the spice was just enough to carry the characters to the next level. Stevie and Padraig were a fun read and I look forward to seeing what comes next from this author.
3.8 ⭐️
2 🌶️
Tropes:
🎸 Second Chance Romance
🎸 Rockstar Romance
🎸 Emotional Roller Coaster
October 14, 2025
Forever Flames is book 4 in the Charming Irish Series. Each book is an interconnected standalone hat follows one of the McGloughlin siblings. While you don't have to read any of the previous books to understand this one, I believe for the best reading experience, that you read in published order. For an even deeper experience, start with the Less Than Zero series....
Why you will love this book:
-Kaylene writes the best rock star romances. She has the experience in the industry that gives the books that edge of gritty reality.
-The characters are childhood friends to lovers. Their story spans years and will have you laughing with them and als0 crying with them.
-The family dynamic gives this story depth and understanding of how love and support can make or break a childhood dream to make it in the rock and roll industry.
-Stevie and Padraig broke my heart at times though this story. Their struggle to find that balance really tore at my soul. All I wanted was for everything to work out for them.
-Kaylene really put in some twists that I DID NOT SEE coming. One was a real shock and my heart literally broke.
-This story was hard to read at times but what I loved the most is the never ending devotion and love that Padraig and Stevie had for each other. It's that kind of love that will never go away. Two souls that are meant to be....This book is a fabulous read and I cannot recommend it enough.
Why you will love this book:
-Kaylene writes the best rock star romances. She has the experience in the industry that gives the books that edge of gritty reality.
-The characters are childhood friends to lovers. Their story spans years and will have you laughing with them and als0 crying with them.
-The family dynamic gives this story depth and understanding of how love and support can make or break a childhood dream to make it in the rock and roll industry.
-Stevie and Padraig broke my heart at times though this story. Their struggle to find that balance really tore at my soul. All I wanted was for everything to work out for them.
-Kaylene really put in some twists that I DID NOT SEE coming. One was a real shock and my heart literally broke.
-This story was hard to read at times but what I loved the most is the never ending devotion and love that Padraig and Stevie had for each other. It's that kind of love that will never go away. Two souls that are meant to be....This book is a fabulous read and I cannot recommend it enough.
October 8, 2025
"She was my person before I had the words for it.”
From the very first page, Forever Flames had me utterly enthralled. Padraig and Stevie’s journey is a breathtaking tapestry of first love, heartbreak, and enduring connection. Watching them fall for each other as children, then navigate the stormy terrain of young adulthood, was both beautiful and agonizing. Their eventual reunion—after years apart—felt like destiny finally catching up.
I devoured their story, even when frustration bubbled up. Padraig’s struggle to set boundaries and his tendency to prioritize others’ happiness over his own made me ache for him. I found myself wishing he and Stevie had fought harder for each other when they were younger. And while I wrestled with some of Stevie’s choices, her motivations were deeply human and heartbreakingly real. That tension only added depth to the emotional weight of the novel.
This isn’t just a love story—it’s a saga of sacrifice, pain, and soul-deep connection. Padraig and Stevie were written as two halves of a whole, and their bond felt unshakable, even when tested by time and tragedy. I wasn’t prepared for how deeply Forever Flames would affect me, and Padraig has firmly earned his place alongside Connor in my heart among the unforgettable McGloughlin brothers.
From the very first page, Forever Flames had me utterly enthralled. Padraig and Stevie’s journey is a breathtaking tapestry of first love, heartbreak, and enduring connection. Watching them fall for each other as children, then navigate the stormy terrain of young adulthood, was both beautiful and agonizing. Their eventual reunion—after years apart—felt like destiny finally catching up.
I devoured their story, even when frustration bubbled up. Padraig’s struggle to set boundaries and his tendency to prioritize others’ happiness over his own made me ache for him. I found myself wishing he and Stevie had fought harder for each other when they were younger. And while I wrestled with some of Stevie’s choices, her motivations were deeply human and heartbreakingly real. That tension only added depth to the emotional weight of the novel.
This isn’t just a love story—it’s a saga of sacrifice, pain, and soul-deep connection. Padraig and Stevie were written as two halves of a whole, and their bond felt unshakable, even when tested by time and tragedy. I wasn’t prepared for how deeply Forever Flames would affect me, and Padraig has firmly earned his place alongside Connor in my heart among the unforgettable McGloughlin brothers.
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