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Until We're Meant to Be: A Sweet YA Romance

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They had a second chance at what they loved. Can they have a second chance when they hate each other?

Caleb Branch’s life as a keyboardist couldn’t be going any better. After learning how to make music again when he got his left arm amputated, he’s ready to attend Apple of the Arts Academy, a boarding school in New York City, for his senior year. Only problem—his grumpy ex-girlfriend got into the same school, but he’s determined to avoid her at all costs.

Gracelynn Naysmith is the perfect daughter who’s tired of her uptight life in Nevada. After recovering from a leg injury, she’s ready to join the contemporary dance team at Apple of the Arts. Nothing will stop her from attending the boarding school her late sister used to dream about, not even her annoying ex-boyfriend, who’s also moving across the country with her.

Until they get paired to write a love song for the school’s theater production.

On the first day of class.

Talk about awkward.

But old feelings resurface the more Caleb and Gracelynn spend time together. Every joke, every touch, and every melody makes them forget the pain of the past and want a new future together, but they still don’t see eye to eye on what that future could look like. Is their relationship worth a second chance? Or are they truly not meant to be?

UNTIL WE’RE MEANT TO BE is a closed-door YA romance with passionate kisses and moments that will leave you laughing, crying, and squealing until the very last page. It is third in the series When We Faced the Music but can be read as a standalone. Expected release is October 2025.

576 pages, Kindle Edition

Published October 1, 2025

20 people want to read

About the author

Lizzie Franklin

4 books18 followers
Lizzie Franklin is a Young Adult Contemporary Romance author who lives for making angsty characters fall in love. What romance is complete without some struggle? Add humor and family drama to the mix, and you have her favorite recipe for a novel. She has written fifteen books and has finally published her debut, BEFORE WE’RE MORE THAN FRIENDS. When she’s not writing—which is pretty rare—she’s suffering through her English major, going on trips, or playing with her cats.

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Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews
Profile Image for Lojain Smaili.
3 reviews
September 21, 2025
Go read this now or I'll 🔪—okay, just kidding… sort of.
This book was the cutest thing ever. Caleb? The moment this guy opens his mouth, you’re laughing your ass off—he’s hilarious.
And Gracelynn—the definition of grace. She seems perfect to everyone, but she’s quietly fighting her own battles, aiming for perfection just to make her parents proud. That depth is so beautifully written.
But my favorite? Rory Herrera. Who doesn’t love a shy, introverted, music-playing nerd who’s cute as heck?
I’m so proud to be one of this book’s ARC readers , I’ll definitely brag about it forever.
Mark your calendars for October 1st—I expect to see you all reading this book. Don’t make me hire that lawyer.
Oh, and Lizzie Franklin, I love you—please don’t go bald. 💖
Profile Image for Tiffany Wagner.
7 reviews
September 20, 2025
*THIS REVIEW HAS MINOR SPOILERS. Read at your own risk😜*

Man, oh man.
Before I start, I want to thank Lizzie, the author, for (a) writing this book and (b) for letting me be able to have it as an ARC read yet again. Let me tell you, you did not disappoint with this one. (So happy I was the first to finish as AN ARC READER, not early (Lilly))🤭

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
OMG AHHHHHH Lizzie omg you amazing, amazing writer. This book. . . omg it was so good. Like it was actually so good. It was a little longer than I'm used to, but I knew it would be long so that's why it took me an extra day to finish it (plus I was in school when I first started reason). I actually had a lot of expections for this book only because it was set in NYC and that's literally across the country from the original setting in the book, but LIZZIE YOU WENT ABOVE AND BEYOND. I haven't been to NYC in literal years, but you made me remember what it's like to be there for the first time, it literally felt like I was there. The plotline was amazing, the characters were CHEFS KISS, and everything was just amazing. THOUGH THIS BOOK WAS ABSOUTELY AMAZING, THE SECOND BOOK IS STILL MY FAVORITE SO FAR, BUT THIS BOOK IS DEFINITELY MY SECOND FAVORITE (I love them all so much, I can't have favorites).
NOWWWW FOR MY BABIES CALEB AND GRACELYNN,
Caleb, my baby, MY JOKESTER, AGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH I LITERALLY LOVE HIM SO FREAKING MUCH. My poor baby has been through so much with Gracelynn and Rory and his arm. Ugh. I cried for him. I literally cried five times for him and they were all for Caleb. Like, what he's been through was so ugh heartbreaking, and he was trying to hide it with his jokes, which are hilarious, but I felt so bad, like I wanted to junp into my ipad screen and hug him (and maybe kidnap him for myself). BUT CALEB HE WAS SO FUNNY AND PROBABLY THE MOST RELATABLE CHARACTER IN THE SERIES, HE'S GONE THROUGH SO MUCH AND HE'S LITERALLY SUCH A GENTLEMAN TO GRACELYNN. I GIGGLED SO MUCH WHEN HE AND GRACELYNN WERE TOGETHER, especially that car tour around the city, ALL THE SONG WRITING SCENES, THE DISNEY SCENE, the CENTRAL PARK scene, the TIMES SQUARE SCENE, ALL OF IT WAS AGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH I LITERALLY WANTED TO SCREAM INTO MY PILLOW FROM HOW SWEET THIS MAN IS OMFG. Yall, just don't understand how much I love Caleb and all Lizzie's MMC's, like, there's always that ONE THING that they do for the FMC and it makes me love them so much. The disabilty with Caleb's arm was so well done, I honestly do not know how you did that Lizzie. Like actually, that sounded like it was hard to write but it came out perfect, though the accident is questionable but this is also fiction so yk lollll. But overall, I love Caleb freaking Branch so much. He's the most relatable, funniest, goofiest character ever. At multiple points in the story I just wanted to jump into the story and tell him that everything was gonna be fine because I hated him overthinking so much (but obviously it's understandable) I just wanted to hug him😔😖
GRACELYNN, MY BABY, MY ICON, MY FAVORITE GIRL OMG.
So when I read the first book (Before We're more than friends), I always so curious about Gracelynn. Because she wasn't shown that much in the first book and when she first showed up I immedately loved her so much. Although, I wanted to punch her in the face multiple times for what she did to my poor boy, Caleb, but once I got to the middle of the story, it all started making sense on why she ignored/hated him. But still, girl don't disrespect my husband Caleb. He deserved so much better after what happened, but it's okay, Gracelynn also deserved better after everything too. She was just as heartbroken as Caleb and plus her mother (who I sincerly think should be punched in the face UGHHHHHH) was so freaking demanding "Do this," "Make sure you do that" like HONEY SHUT THE FREAK UPPPPP UGHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHHH just shut up, she's your daughter who is talented as hell, be grateful she wants to even talk to you again. She's an icon from top to bottom and I'm so happy that Lizzie gave me her, she created Gracelynn, who is now one of my favorite female leads ever to exist, and yall know there's a lot of books out there, but Lizzie, if you're reading this, which I know you are, PLEASE GIVE US MORE CALEB AND GRACELYNN BECAUSE OMGGGGGGG THIS BOOK WAS ABSOUTELY AMAZING IN EVERY WAY SHAPE OR FORM. But yeah:) Gracelynn was amazing, i loved her so much.
Rory, ugh Rory.
I lokey hated him so much in the beginning. Especially after that one flashback (Ifyky), but then he got better and met SCARLETT WHO, BY THE WAY IS THE BEST SIDE MAIN CHARACTER EVER YOU BETTER GIVE US MORE OF HER TOO LIZZIE BC I SWEAR. There's nothing rlly much more to say about Rory. He's funny and I hated him at first but he got better at the end and now I love him. His bromance with Caleb was top tier I loved them as best friends omg
BUT ANYWAYSSSSS, Lizzie this book was absoutely amazing. All the scenes were incredible and I ABSOUTELY LOVEDDDDDDDDDDDDD AND ADORED ALL THE DISNEY REFRENCES/MOVIES THAT WERE INCLUDED. I literally giggled so much at that one scene with Gracelynn and Caleb because oh, my god how could two fictional characters have so much damn chemistry and be so damn cute omfgggg.
Guys I know it might seem a little long but trust me, I know everyone who read this review has read a longer book before SO GIVE THIS SERIES A CHANCE YOU WON'T REGRET IT I PROMISE YOUUUUU (This is coming from someone who doesn't read long books a lot)
Lizzie give us more please
Profile Image for Lilly H. Dove.
Author 1 book13 followers
September 12, 2025
Before I start, I want to thank Lizzie for letting me read this book early, even before ARCs, and I'm glad that it was what let her continue on releasing this amazing book, because it deserves the best. Thank you queen. I'm also honored to be the first to review this book (the streak goes on 🤭).

Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐

OMG YALL. THE ROMANCE BOOK OF ALL FRICKING TIME AHHH.
I'm not even being dramatic guys, this is legit my favorite romance book I've ever read, AHHHHH.
The book was literally amazing. BEYOND amazing actually. It has a different setting from the first two books, and the plotline ATE. The CHARACTERS AHHH. I can't stop screaming about it im sorry.
Caleb and Gracelynn, my babies. They are the funniest and cutest couple ever, I was giggling anytime they were in a scene together. Their interactions, their dynamic, their development, it's all just perfection. It's paced perfectly, and I personally need more of them. Lizzie, where's the 200 page extension I asked for?
Okay, Caleb. Caleb is my child. He's the funniest, most real character, but you can tell all that humor is to hide what's going on. He's the most relatable character ever, always trying his hardest to succeed in the worst circumstances but never feels understood. Also, the disability representation, both physically and the mental affects, are done so well in this book. (My baby Caleb, why would you do this to him). I think I almost cried like twenty times, and they kept bullying him I swear, like LEAVE ME BABY ALONEEE. Also, he's the most hilarious person ever. His jokes are iconic, and I need him back actually. When's his sequel?
Gracelynn, my love. We love her, she's an icon. Kinda wanted to punch her in the face a couple times, but still an icon. Also, excused because of having the worst mother in the world (JENNIFER AHHHHHH). Her need to always end up on the top is so real, especially because of her mom's expectations, perfectionist core. Also, her sister's death haunting her always, my poor girllll. LIZZIE LEAVE THESE KIDS ALONEEEE. LET THEM LIVE.
Rory, I had a love-hate relationship with. At the end I did end up liking him, but I wanted him to disappear at least twenty times. The things he said to my Caleb?? How dare he?? After betraying him??? But he redeemed himself.
Also, honorable mention to the texts in this book, because they had me laughing my lungs out. The friend group is literally hilarious.
ANYWHOO, best romance book ever. The New York vibes were so gooddd, I loved the change in scenery. Caleb for comedian of the year, as well as Lizzie since she wrote this book. She fricking outdid herself, again, and idk how the hell she thought this book wasn't good?? Also, suing everyone for complaining about length, I could've gotten 200 more pages of Caleb. Also, Lizzie, stop bullying my babies. Tell everyone to leave them alone. And yeah, that's my review. NOW GO READ THIS BOOK BEFORE I START SUING.
Profile Image for Aava Winster.
18 reviews
October 18, 2025
Well, well. I think there’s no better way to say this, but Lizzie definitely did it again. Not because I’m the chosen ARC reviewer and if I say something bad my chances of getting selected might get difficult, but because honesty is the policy. And honestly? The whole time even a bit of interaction took place between Gracelynn and Caleb, their eyes collided and electricity shot up. Even when their bodies touched slightly, I could literally hear “Everything is Romantic” by Charli XCX. Because, man, they were falling in love again and again, even when they tried to hide it well under their hatred for each other.

Caleb’s humor? I know when a guy ACTUALLY is funny and not just trying to impress ladies, because come on — what could be more awkward and embarrassing than laughing at utterly senseless & racist jokes cracked by the most humorless guy who has just been lowkey trying to impress you, but in reality is utterly pathetic. Trust me on this one when I say that no one can pull off being a Caleb nor a Chandler (Iykyk).

And after an academic break? This was the book that made me realize how much I missed being a couch potato and reading all day. Sincerely. And I gotta admit, the one thing Gracelynn and I have in common — dislike for physical touch. But maybe it’s just me. And what’s a novel written by Lizzie if it doesn’t have a happy ending? So highkey, I LOVED the book and can’t wait to read the next one in the series.

Even though there was a part in the book — the songwriting opportunity for The Little Mermaid, where Gracelynn and Caleb are just chosen together out of nowhere by the teacher — that made my eyebrow raise at the ease of the situation. But maybe Holmes, the drama teacher, did that because both were newbies and he wanted to test them out. But also because they were outstanding songwriters. It makes sense, but I think it only makes sense because Lizzie can make it make sense and feel sensible and right.

So yeah, it was definitely a good read.

XOXO, Mr. Winster 😉

PS : Also, guys, I’m a bookstagrammer - feel free to check out my page @winsterbug if you want to!
Your support would mean the world to me 🥹
Profile Image for Adriana.
36 reviews3 followers
October 1, 2025
Caleb Branch is a strong character. He goes through a very traumatic experience losing his arm but he bounces back in no time showing that you should never let anything bring you down. Two arms or one you are still strong and you can do whatever you put to your mind. But also he shows us how drowning in the past and in your fears not letting them go away will only make you miserable. He pointed the blame to whoever he first saw before his eyes letting himself fall in a spiral of self-pity and didn't see that the only thing he needed to do was...let go. The past is the past for a reason and if we fear it will repeat that's exactly what's gonna happen. We need to learn from it and move ahead. And that's exactly what he...finally🙄...did.

Gracelynn Naysmith is as strong as Caleb. Even if she didn't lose a limb she still suffered a severe fall that threatened her dancing career. But she didn't let it stop her. She did everything in her power to win her dream back and didn't slip in self-pity and bad thoughts. She also shows us that no matter who the person is you should NEVER but NEVER let anyone walk all over you or bring you down. Her relationship with her mom was... difficult...and by the time she spoke up the damage was so bad that they ended up in no contact. But she didn't stand down. She took accountability for her actions and still demeaned the respect and affection she deserves.

Rory Herrera is a people pleaser. He lets everyone walk all over him until he breaks. And when he does...is not a nice show and he ends up the villain. This is the perfect representation for people pleasers. They let themselves get walked over until they snap and when they do they are the bad guy. But this doesn't mean you need to go back to your old ways. You need to hold your ground and show people you are not a welcome matt. You are a whole person that deserves respect. And who sticks, sticks who doesn't....well it's better that way.

Finishing off with Scarlett Baker (who's family owns a bakery) is the perfect add to the mix. A bubble personality ready to jump at your help and make you laugh when you most need it. She is there to cheer everyone up and still holds herself and makes sure she is respected. She glued to my heart the second she first appeared and I can not explain how much I rooted for her happy ending.

This book is trying to show us that we can. No matter what life throws at us we are powerful enough to overcome it if we put our mind to it.
Profile Image for Brandi.
95 reviews
September 26, 2025
I looked through some of the other reviews on this book before I sat down to write this, and maybe I'm just wrong, but I have super mixed feelings about this book. Here's the highlights.
1. Overall good plot line. I liked Caleb and Gracelynn going to school away together. I liked how complex Caleb being an amputee is.
2. Related to 1. I felt the plot was broken up by an overall clunky story. It's long, and in my opinion, has too much dialogue. If it was cut down some, I think it'd be better.
3. High school senior boys cried way too much for my taste.
4. Controversial maybe, but I found Caleb to be mildly annoying. He has a temper he tried to hide behind whining and sarcasm.
5. This is a prime example of high school DRAMA.
There's my take. Read it if you want and see if you agree or not.
Profile Image for Amara Harper.
5 reviews
September 28, 2025
Caleb and Gracelynn are easily my FAVORITE of all the WWFTM couples (sorry Raina and Dallas!)

I‘ve loved Caleb‘s sarcasm from the first page I met him, and he did not disappoint in this book——even when he thought he did, I was GRINNING

And the way Franklin weaves both Gracelynn‘s and Caleb‘s past trauma into the story without bogging it down or making it feel like a trauma dump is so satisfying. She perfectly portrays how it can absolutely affect a person’s life forever, even when they try not to let it.

NOT TO MENTION HER INCREDIBLE ABILITY TO MAKE ME LOVE EVERY SINGLE SIDE CHARACTER LIKE PLEASE I NEED THEM ALL TO HAVE THEIR OWN STORIES PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE PLEASE

Overall adore Franklin’s writing and this series and am forever honored to be apart of her ARC team. Lizzie, I freaking love you and am so darn proud of you. I cannot wait for the next one! <3
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Ebimobo-ere Faith.
22 reviews
September 27, 2025
This book made me smile, frustrated me a little, but ultimately, it has heart. Seriously, the characters and their drama made me love it more, and the growth they experience is just wonderful.🤗

The side characters added extra depth to the story, making it a rewarding read. This book reminded me why I love YA fiction. That thrill of young love, messing up, making lasting friendships, and chasing dreams.✨

I loved how this book handled heavy subjects, while still remaining lighthearted and the ending was beautiful.
If you love stories that feature friendship, family dynamics, music, and second-chance romance. Then you will love this book.
Looking forward to Oliver's story.

*Thanks to the author for this ARC. All opinions expressed are my own*
71 reviews5 followers
September 26, 2025
3.75 StarsUntil We’re Meant to Be by Lizzie Franklin

ARC Review: advanced copy received for an honest review.

This YA Romance is so much more than meets the eye. Caleb and Gracelynn have quite the history in their hometown in Nevada. As they venture across the country for their senior year, they are challenged to face their past while navigating the ins and outs of a competitive arts school. Lizzie Franklin tackles tough issues of death, physical challenges and disabilities, along with the typical high school issues of relationships and friendships. The complexities of the characters and their interwoven relationships drives this story and will have you anxious, elated, and heartbroken.
Profile Image for ProofReadEdit.
70 reviews4 followers
October 13, 2025
Until We Meet Again- By Lizzie Franklin
⭐️⭐️.5

Honestly, I was quite disappointed by this book as it started off so well. This book follows childhood best friends and neighbours, now Exes as they move to a new school. I loved the idea of this book initially however some of the language and slang used threw me off while I was reading it. Normally I am not bothered by any slang or fake profanities used, but it rubbed me the wrong way in this book.

Overall, I liked the plot and premise of the tropes but I didn’t feel it was executed very well. I will not be continuing the series however, if you like a cute second chance romance and do not mind slang in books- this one could be for you!
Profile Image for isis ✦.
31 reviews1 follower
September 21, 2025
one of the second-chance stories that has made me laugh, suffer, and fall in love all over again. i loved this book from start to finish: its characters, their dynamics, the drama, the reconciliations, the concept of 'found family,'... everything! (THE EPILOGUE 😭❤️❤️)

thank you so much to Lizzie, my sweet author for letting me read this ARC (⁠/⁠^⁠-⁠^⁠(⁠^⁠ ⁠^⁠*⁠)⁠/
Profile Image for The   Olympian Library.
11 reviews
October 4, 2025
Lizzie Franklin never ceases to amaze me. Her characters, storyline, and writing are top tier and I am constantly looking forward to the next book in the series because as I’ve read I’ve gained an interest in the entire friend group, and I’m so excited to read all of their story lines.
Profile Image for Shai Z.
87 reviews
September 30, 2025
If you are looking for a book to read while waiting for stormlight 6, but you aren't in the mood for fantasy, you found the right book. Imagine if the love triangle there ended up with a happy ending to Kaladin too. And it's also chunky, but not as much as the average stormlight book.
Displaying 1 - 13 of 13 reviews

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