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Next Gen #3
Never Friends
Addison Hale didn’t expect to fall head over heels in love with the daughter of her mother’s best friend when she visited Oahu the summer after graduating from high school. Elena Kahale had a crush on Addison for years, and when Addison finally showed interest, Elena planned a summer of rebellious fun for the two of them. The fact that they fell hard and fast for each other wasn’t part of the plan, but it was everything Elena could have hoped for. Until the moment it all came crashing down.
Now, four years have passed, and Elena has never gotten over the three months they spent together—because deep down, she’s always known that Addison is the love of her life.
When Addison’s mother dies, she returns to Oahu and, despite their complicated history, Elena finds herself incapable of walking away. Consumed with grief and trying to figure out how to move on with her life, Addison has no choice but to accept when Elena offers her a place to stay. Now they aren’t just former lovers who’ve never talked about their break-up, they’re also roommates, and two women who still have feelings for each other that are too complex to ignore. The only way they stand a chance at making it this time is if Elena comes clean about the past without hurting Addison more in the process.
Now, four years have passed, and Elena has never gotten over the three months they spent together—because deep down, she’s always known that Addison is the love of her life.
When Addison’s mother dies, she returns to Oahu and, despite their complicated history, Elena finds herself incapable of walking away. Consumed with grief and trying to figure out how to move on with her life, Addison has no choice but to accept when Elena offers her a place to stay. Now they aren’t just former lovers who’ve never talked about their break-up, they’re also roommates, and two women who still have feelings for each other that are too complex to ignore. The only way they stand a chance at making it this time is if Elena comes clean about the past without hurting Addison more in the process.
- GenresSecond Chance
340 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 17, 2025
3 people are currently reading
54 people want to read
About the author
Dani Grimes
16 books33 followersDani is an author of spicy romance novels with heart and emotionally intelligent characters. She aims to write characters who understand themselves, apologize when they do something wrong, generally navigate life's challenges without having unnecessary emotional drama, and have great sex.
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Displaying 1 - 21 of 21 reviews
October 17, 2025
I’m a sucker for a good second chance romance and Never Friends definitely fits that category. This is the first book I’m reading by Dani Grimes and after this, I think I’ll read them all.
To be able to read, in split timeline, how their love story developed over the course of one summer and how heartbreaking it had been to be without each other ever since. I loved that the characters were able to process their feelings however they needed to without judgment. You can be mad at someone who passed and that doesn’t take away how much you love them, how much you miss them and how much you grieve for them. The cast of side characters, most of which have already had their love stories and the ones that are to come, were all so well written and it all just felt like one huge family.
One of my favorite scenes is the truth or dare game at the pool. I shrieked internally and I’m pretty sure I blushed. As much as I can admit that I loved that scene, I also admit that I sobbed for the last chapters of the book. Truly so well done, I can’t rave about it enough.
Thank you to Dani Grimes and The Author Agency for providing me with an eARC.
To be able to read, in split timeline, how their love story developed over the course of one summer and how heartbreaking it had been to be without each other ever since. I loved that the characters were able to process their feelings however they needed to without judgment. You can be mad at someone who passed and that doesn’t take away how much you love them, how much you miss them and how much you grieve for them. The cast of side characters, most of which have already had their love stories and the ones that are to come, were all so well written and it all just felt like one huge family.
One of my favorite scenes is the truth or dare game at the pool. I shrieked internally and I’m pretty sure I blushed. As much as I can admit that I loved that scene, I also admit that I sobbed for the last chapters of the book. Truly so well done, I can’t rave about it enough.
Thank you to Dani Grimes and The Author Agency for providing me with an eARC.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 18, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️.5
By Thank you to The Author Agency for my ARC of Never Friends, Book Three in the Next Gen Series by Dani Grimes.
There was SO much I loved about this book… I loved the split timeline, the slow burn that hits effectively, the depth of emotion it evoked from me as I was reading it, and how it makes you feel Elena and Addison’s love for one another. I personally thought the story circled the issues a bit more than necessary, and I found myself saying “ok, I think we can stop revisiting this now”, but the way the rest of the story develops and resolves made the redundancy less frustrating! This series has been so wonderful to read and I’m glad there are still 2 more books before the series is complete!
The first three books of this series are available on KU now!
________________________________________________
👩🏽🤝👩🏻 sapphic romance
💜 second chance romance
💜 no third act breakup
💜 it’s always been her
💜 hurt/comfort
❤️🩹 healing from grief
🕐 split timeline
🌶️🌶️.5
By Thank you to The Author Agency for my ARC of Never Friends, Book Three in the Next Gen Series by Dani Grimes.
There was SO much I loved about this book… I loved the split timeline, the slow burn that hits effectively, the depth of emotion it evoked from me as I was reading it, and how it makes you feel Elena and Addison’s love for one another. I personally thought the story circled the issues a bit more than necessary, and I found myself saying “ok, I think we can stop revisiting this now”, but the way the rest of the story develops and resolves made the redundancy less frustrating! This series has been so wonderful to read and I’m glad there are still 2 more books before the series is complete!
The first three books of this series are available on KU now!
________________________________________________
👩🏽🤝👩🏻 sapphic romance
💜 second chance romance
💜 no third act breakup
💜 it’s always been her
💜 hurt/comfort
❤️🩹 healing from grief
🕐 split timeline
October 15, 2025
Elena & Addison’s love story is one you only dream of having! It’s the one you hear about in love songs, but you’re like that rarely exists! When you find your true love at 16 only to be pulled apart & brought back together by tragedy. 💔
This was def not my first book of this series, I’ve been arc reading this whole series and let me tell you this book comes really close to my favorite Never Settle. One of the things I love about Dani’s writing is her titles end up becoming a tattoo in the story. Somehow someway & it’s just beautiful.
This was def not my first book of this series, I’ve been arc reading this whole series and let me tell you this book comes really close to my favorite Never Settle. One of the things I love about Dani’s writing is her titles end up becoming a tattoo in the story. Somehow someway & it’s just beautiful.
October 17, 2025
Elana and Addison's story was absolutely amazing. Growing up, they were close since their moms were best friends but they were never really friends, until the summer they were 18. They grew closer and fell in love. When something devastating happens, they are torn apart for years. Coming back together and learning to heal. The way they loved and supported each other was felt on every page. Their chemistry and banter was so good.
October 7, 2025
💔 Second Chance Romance
🏝️ Forced Proximity
🫢 Secret Past
👩❤️👩 WLW (Women Loving Women)
🧳 Summer Fling Turned Serious
😢 Grief and Healing
🏠 Roommates with History
🫶 Childhood Connection
🧃 Repressed Feelings
🫂 Emotional Baggage
🌀 Angst with a Happy Ending
🫣 Unspoken Truths
🌊 Island Setting
🧡 Slow Burn Reunion
🎓 Post-High School Love
Star: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Dani Grimes’ Never Friends is a deeply emotional and beautifully written exploration of love lost and found, the kind that lingers long after the final page. As the third book in the Next Gen Series, it builds on the emotional depth of its predecessors while carving out a unique space for Addison Hale and Elena Kahale’s story a romance that begins with youthful abandon and matures into something far more complicated and profound.
Addison’s return to Oahu is steeped in grief, following the death of her mother. It’s a homecoming that forces her to confront not only her loss but also the unresolved feelings she has for Elena, the girl who once made her feel alive in ways she hadn’t expected. Their summer together, four years earlier, was a whirlwind of passion and rebellion, driven by Elena’s long-standing crush and Addison’s sudden, intense reciprocation. It was supposed to be fun, fleeting, and free but it became something deeper, something neither of them was prepared to handle.
Dani Grimes captures the ache of first love with remarkable sensitivity. The flashbacks to their summer romance are vivid and tender, filled with stolen moments and the kind of emotional intensity that only comes with youth. But what makes Never Friends truly compelling is how it handles the aftermath. The years apart haven’t dulled Elena’s feelings, and Addison, though guarded and hurting, is clearly still tethered to the memory of what they shared.
The decision to make them roommates again is a masterstroke. It forces proximity, vulnerability, and confrontation. The tension between them is electric not just romantic, but emotional and psychological. They are two people who have changed, who carry scars, and who must decide whether love is enough to bridge the gap between who they were and who they’ve become.
Elena’s internal struggle is particularly poignant. She knows she must tell Addison the truth about what happened after their breakup, but she’s terrified of causing more pain. This emotional tightrope adds depth to the narrative, making the reader root for her even as the stakes rise. Dani Grimes doesn’t rush the reconciliation; instead, she allows space for reflection, for awkward silences, for tentative steps toward healing.
The setting of Oahu is more than just a backdrop it’s a character in its own right. The island’s beauty, its rhythms, and its cultural richness infuse the story with warmth and atmosphere. It’s the place where Addison and Elena fell in love, and it becomes the crucible in which they must decide whether to try again.
Never Friends is a story about second chances, but it’s also about honesty, growth, and the courage it takes to face the past. Dani Grimes writes with emotional clarity and compassion, giving readers a romance that feels real, earned, and deeply satisfying. It’s a standout in the series, and a must-read for anyone who believes in the transformative power of love.
🏝️ Forced Proximity
🫢 Secret Past
👩❤️👩 WLW (Women Loving Women)
🧳 Summer Fling Turned Serious
😢 Grief and Healing
🏠 Roommates with History
🫶 Childhood Connection
🧃 Repressed Feelings
🫂 Emotional Baggage
🌀 Angst with a Happy Ending
🫣 Unspoken Truths
🌊 Island Setting
🧡 Slow Burn Reunion
🎓 Post-High School Love
Star: ⭐⭐⭐⭐.5
Dani Grimes’ Never Friends is a deeply emotional and beautifully written exploration of love lost and found, the kind that lingers long after the final page. As the third book in the Next Gen Series, it builds on the emotional depth of its predecessors while carving out a unique space for Addison Hale and Elena Kahale’s story a romance that begins with youthful abandon and matures into something far more complicated and profound.
Addison’s return to Oahu is steeped in grief, following the death of her mother. It’s a homecoming that forces her to confront not only her loss but also the unresolved feelings she has for Elena, the girl who once made her feel alive in ways she hadn’t expected. Their summer together, four years earlier, was a whirlwind of passion and rebellion, driven by Elena’s long-standing crush and Addison’s sudden, intense reciprocation. It was supposed to be fun, fleeting, and free but it became something deeper, something neither of them was prepared to handle.
Dani Grimes captures the ache of first love with remarkable sensitivity. The flashbacks to their summer romance are vivid and tender, filled with stolen moments and the kind of emotional intensity that only comes with youth. But what makes Never Friends truly compelling is how it handles the aftermath. The years apart haven’t dulled Elena’s feelings, and Addison, though guarded and hurting, is clearly still tethered to the memory of what they shared.
The decision to make them roommates again is a masterstroke. It forces proximity, vulnerability, and confrontation. The tension between them is electric not just romantic, but emotional and psychological. They are two people who have changed, who carry scars, and who must decide whether love is enough to bridge the gap between who they were and who they’ve become.
Elena’s internal struggle is particularly poignant. She knows she must tell Addison the truth about what happened after their breakup, but she’s terrified of causing more pain. This emotional tightrope adds depth to the narrative, making the reader root for her even as the stakes rise. Dani Grimes doesn’t rush the reconciliation; instead, she allows space for reflection, for awkward silences, for tentative steps toward healing.
The setting of Oahu is more than just a backdrop it’s a character in its own right. The island’s beauty, its rhythms, and its cultural richness infuse the story with warmth and atmosphere. It’s the place where Addison and Elena fell in love, and it becomes the crucible in which they must decide whether to try again.
Never Friends is a story about second chances, but it’s also about honesty, growth, and the courage it takes to face the past. Dani Grimes writes with emotional clarity and compassion, giving readers a romance that feels real, earned, and deeply satisfying. It’s a standout in the series, and a must-read for anyone who believes in the transformative power of love.
October 19, 2025
Tropes:
- Second Chance
- Friends to Lovers
- “It was always her.”
- Hurt/Comfort
- No 3rd Act Break Up
Summary:
Addison Hale never expected to fall deeply in love with the daughter of her mother’s best friend during a summer visit to Oahu after graduating high school. Elena Kahale had harbored a crush on Addison for years, and when Addison finally showed interest, Elena planned a summer full of rebellious adventures. Their rapid and intense connection wasn’t part of the plan, but it became everything Elena had hoped for—until everything suddenly fell apart.
Four years later, Elena has never moved on from the three months they spent together because she has always known, deep down, that Addison is her true love. When Addison’s mother passes away, she returns to Oahu and, despite their complicated history, Elena finds herself unable to walk away. Grieving and trying to rebuild her life, Addison agrees to stay with Elena when she offers her a place to stay. Now, they’re not just former lovers who avoided discussing their breakup—they’re also roommates with complex feelings that neither can ignore. The only way to truly make this work is if Elena is honest about the past without causing more pain to Addison.
My Review:
Wow. First- I didn't realize this book is one of a larger “universe” of characters by Dani Grimes. I knew it was the third in a series, but hoo-boy…that first chapter introduces EVERYONE, and it became apparent I walked into the middle of this world. Given the way I cried, laughed, and almost threw my Kindle across the room, I’m now burdened (oh no!🫣) with adding her backlist to my TBR, along with the next book in this series. 😉
Elena and Addison - ugh, what a love story. I wish I had more backstory of the previous characters to see if there were any other character nods/flaws of the FMCs before reading this book. That said, this book can definitely be read as a standalone.
Elena’s heart was on her sleeve the entire way through this book, and her devotion to Addison was clear from the beginning. Addison’s willingness to let Elena back in her life shows you just how much she still cares about and loves Elena.
It became clearer, around 25-35% of the way in, how their relationship ended when they were younger and what may have been responsible. The majority of their story, written in the present day, is from Elena’s POV, where Addison’s is almost all written in the past. I really liked the dual timelines because, while the relationship between the FMCs is low-angst, the dual timelines build in some angst in anticipation of how they break up. It also kept me experiencing conflicting emotions about how other characters influenced Elena & Addison’s relationship, then and now.
Without giving too much away, my only pet peeve about the story is the willingness to forgive even when someone’s actions can have a devastating effect on the relationships of others and themselves. All in all, I really enjoyed this read and can’t wait to read more by Dani Grimes.
***| received an ARC of this book from The Author Agency. This is my honest review.***
- Second Chance
- Friends to Lovers
- “It was always her.”
- Hurt/Comfort
- No 3rd Act Break Up
Summary:
Addison Hale never expected to fall deeply in love with the daughter of her mother’s best friend during a summer visit to Oahu after graduating high school. Elena Kahale had harbored a crush on Addison for years, and when Addison finally showed interest, Elena planned a summer full of rebellious adventures. Their rapid and intense connection wasn’t part of the plan, but it became everything Elena had hoped for—until everything suddenly fell apart.
Four years later, Elena has never moved on from the three months they spent together because she has always known, deep down, that Addison is her true love. When Addison’s mother passes away, she returns to Oahu and, despite their complicated history, Elena finds herself unable to walk away. Grieving and trying to rebuild her life, Addison agrees to stay with Elena when she offers her a place to stay. Now, they’re not just former lovers who avoided discussing their breakup—they’re also roommates with complex feelings that neither can ignore. The only way to truly make this work is if Elena is honest about the past without causing more pain to Addison.
My Review:
Wow. First- I didn't realize this book is one of a larger “universe” of characters by Dani Grimes. I knew it was the third in a series, but hoo-boy…that first chapter introduces EVERYONE, and it became apparent I walked into the middle of this world. Given the way I cried, laughed, and almost threw my Kindle across the room, I’m now burdened (oh no!🫣) with adding her backlist to my TBR, along with the next book in this series. 😉
Elena and Addison - ugh, what a love story. I wish I had more backstory of the previous characters to see if there were any other character nods/flaws of the FMCs before reading this book. That said, this book can definitely be read as a standalone.
Elena’s heart was on her sleeve the entire way through this book, and her devotion to Addison was clear from the beginning. Addison’s willingness to let Elena back in her life shows you just how much she still cares about and loves Elena.
It became clearer, around 25-35% of the way in, how their relationship ended when they were younger and what may have been responsible. The majority of their story, written in the present day, is from Elena’s POV, where Addison’s is almost all written in the past. I really liked the dual timelines because, while the relationship between the FMCs is low-angst, the dual timelines build in some angst in anticipation of how they break up. It also kept me experiencing conflicting emotions about how other characters influenced Elena & Addison’s relationship, then and now.
Without giving too much away, my only pet peeve about the story is the willingness to forgive even when someone’s actions can have a devastating effect on the relationships of others and themselves. All in all, I really enjoyed this read and can’t wait to read more by Dani Grimes.
***| received an ARC of this book from The Author Agency. This is my honest review.***
October 28, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️️⭐️/ ️🌶️🌶️🌶️
When young love has the opportunity to grow and mature into a deep, soulful connection, the romance is anything but ordinary. Dani Grimes has delivered just this in book 3 of her Next Gen series, Never Friends. I fully enjoyed watching what starts out as young love develops into something more than either FMC ever thought it would. This book is everything you want in a romance and Dani holds nothing back in this story. And not only that, but finding love when your heart has been broken into a million pieces, a love that allows you to grieve and find yourself on your timetable. Dani truly captures how love can heal in profound ways throughout this novel.
Four years ago Addison and Elena had a summer they will never forget. Their moms are best friends and while Elena has always had feelings for Addison, it was this summer that Addison let go of expectations and fully embraced her true self. But a lot can change in four years and now Addison is returning to Oahu with a giant hole in her heart and life, one her mom used to fill. With the loss of her mother, she doesn’t know who she is anymore and needs to heal. The now and then timeline is done beautifully. We get to see flashbacks to the girls' romance while staying present in the now and these girls reconnecting.
When reading this story, two phrases came to mind. The heart wants what the heart wants and time changes everything. Even though their love started off young and playful, their pull towards each other is still there, even years later. But time has changed both of them, so good, some bad, and some unknown. While they start over in the present, they both know things that happened during their separation play significant roles in who they are today as well.
This story tells the journey of love and how it grows. Meeting someone where they are in life is important, but reminding them of who they are is just as important as well. The relationship between Elena and Addison goes beyond romance and connects them to versions of themselves they have somewhat forgotten. Second chances don’t come around often, so when they do, grab them and experience them. A beautiful love story that definitely left its mark on me.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
💙Sapphic Romance
🌴It’s Always Been You
💙Healing from Grief
🌴Childhood Crush to Lovers
💙Second Chance Romance
🌴Split Timeline
💙Bi x Lesbian FMCs
When young love has the opportunity to grow and mature into a deep, soulful connection, the romance is anything but ordinary. Dani Grimes has delivered just this in book 3 of her Next Gen series, Never Friends. I fully enjoyed watching what starts out as young love develops into something more than either FMC ever thought it would. This book is everything you want in a romance and Dani holds nothing back in this story. And not only that, but finding love when your heart has been broken into a million pieces, a love that allows you to grieve and find yourself on your timetable. Dani truly captures how love can heal in profound ways throughout this novel.
Four years ago Addison and Elena had a summer they will never forget. Their moms are best friends and while Elena has always had feelings for Addison, it was this summer that Addison let go of expectations and fully embraced her true self. But a lot can change in four years and now Addison is returning to Oahu with a giant hole in her heart and life, one her mom used to fill. With the loss of her mother, she doesn’t know who she is anymore and needs to heal. The now and then timeline is done beautifully. We get to see flashbacks to the girls' romance while staying present in the now and these girls reconnecting.
When reading this story, two phrases came to mind. The heart wants what the heart wants and time changes everything. Even though their love started off young and playful, their pull towards each other is still there, even years later. But time has changed both of them, so good, some bad, and some unknown. While they start over in the present, they both know things that happened during their separation play significant roles in who they are today as well.
This story tells the journey of love and how it grows. Meeting someone where they are in life is important, but reminding them of who they are is just as important as well. The relationship between Elena and Addison goes beyond romance and connects them to versions of themselves they have somewhat forgotten. Second chances don’t come around often, so when they do, grab them and experience them. A beautiful love story that definitely left its mark on me.
As always, review any author notes before reading.
What to Expect:
💙Sapphic Romance
🌴It’s Always Been You
💙Healing from Grief
🌴Childhood Crush to Lovers
💙Second Chance Romance
🌴Split Timeline
💙Bi x Lesbian FMCs
October 17, 2025
I would like to start out by saying thank you to Dani Grimes and TAA for having me be apart of this ARC release! I genuinely enjoyed this one and I am so grateful for this opportunity!
Grab the Kleenex gang! Never Friends is an emotional and beautiful story that absolutely ripped my heart out. As a girl who has lost a parent, the storyline of Addison returning to Ohau after losing her mother, really resonated with me and I found a lot of comfort in this book. Dani Grimes did a wonderful job of writing about loss and love (especially love after loss).
Dani wrote extremely real characters with infectious emotions. Like both Addison and Elena had so many complex feelings through out the book and it really felt like their feelings bled off the pages into me. I hope that makes sense. But I loved both characters immensely and I loved seeing their story unfold.
If you know me, you know I can be very picky about my second chance romances however this felt like it was done very well. I say this because although Elena wanted Addison the entire time, she never pushed Addison for something she was not ready for. Elena was patient and supportive and I loved her role in the storyline. I feel like one party can tend to be too push in a lot of second chance romances and this felt like a breath of fresh air.
My one hang up was with Elena. Specifically about how she knew she needed to have the conversation with Addison about what happened after the break up… and you gotta hear me out about this one!! Because I understand Dani probably wrote it this way purposely but I hated that the reconciliation felt dragged out. Compared to the pacing of the rest of the book, this felt off. Does that make sense? That’s just my opinion!
With that being said, would I suggest this to a friend? Yes! Would I reread? Yes! Will I carry on with the series? Yes!
Grab the Kleenex gang! Never Friends is an emotional and beautiful story that absolutely ripped my heart out. As a girl who has lost a parent, the storyline of Addison returning to Ohau after losing her mother, really resonated with me and I found a lot of comfort in this book. Dani Grimes did a wonderful job of writing about loss and love (especially love after loss).
Dani wrote extremely real characters with infectious emotions. Like both Addison and Elena had so many complex feelings through out the book and it really felt like their feelings bled off the pages into me. I hope that makes sense. But I loved both characters immensely and I loved seeing their story unfold.
If you know me, you know I can be very picky about my second chance romances however this felt like it was done very well. I say this because although Elena wanted Addison the entire time, she never pushed Addison for something she was not ready for. Elena was patient and supportive and I loved her role in the storyline. I feel like one party can tend to be too push in a lot of second chance romances and this felt like a breath of fresh air.
My one hang up was with Elena. Specifically about how she knew she needed to have the conversation with Addison about what happened after the break up… and you gotta hear me out about this one!! Because I understand Dani probably wrote it this way purposely but I hated that the reconciliation felt dragged out. Compared to the pacing of the rest of the book, this felt off. Does that make sense? That’s just my opinion!
With that being said, would I suggest this to a friend? Yes! Would I reread? Yes! Will I carry on with the series? Yes!
October 18, 2025
"At one moment in our life, I’d given her reason to believe that I didn’t care about her the way she thought I did. I couldn’t do that anymore. I wouldn’t." - Elena
"You make me stronger. You’re patient and supportive. I can do this alone, but I don’t want to. I don’t want to do anything alone anymore." - Addison
There are two timelines in this book. The "Then" timeline is about Addison and Elena spending the summer together; Elena is helping Addison with rebelling. They make a lot of fun memories and try new things while also realizing that they were never "just friends" and fall in love. They have matching tattoos to prove that they had a fun summer and they fell in love. But something happened, and that's why they need a second chance.
The "Now" timeline is about Elena helping Addison while she is grieving the loss of her mother. Elena can't see her in pain and wants to explain what happened between them all those years ago when the time is ready. They are also living together and are slowly trusting each other again. They never stopped loving each other; they are soulmates. This book had hard moments but was also funny at times. It's a very loving (found) family, and I've definitely also laughed. Elena has done so much for Addie; she even made her dresses and made sure to always be the shoulder to cry on. While she has a hard time with people who are hurting, she couldn't let Addie be alone in her pain. And Addie took care of Elena when she needed someone too, with lots of cuddles on the couch while watching TV. I love that they took their time and still gave each other a second chance, because they are it for each other.
I received an ARC copy of this book.
"You make me stronger. You’re patient and supportive. I can do this alone, but I don’t want to. I don’t want to do anything alone anymore." - Addison
There are two timelines in this book. The "Then" timeline is about Addison and Elena spending the summer together; Elena is helping Addison with rebelling. They make a lot of fun memories and try new things while also realizing that they were never "just friends" and fall in love. They have matching tattoos to prove that they had a fun summer and they fell in love. But something happened, and that's why they need a second chance.
The "Now" timeline is about Elena helping Addison while she is grieving the loss of her mother. Elena can't see her in pain and wants to explain what happened between them all those years ago when the time is ready. They are also living together and are slowly trusting each other again. They never stopped loving each other; they are soulmates. This book had hard moments but was also funny at times. It's a very loving (found) family, and I've definitely also laughed. Elena has done so much for Addie; she even made her dresses and made sure to always be the shoulder to cry on. While she has a hard time with people who are hurting, she couldn't let Addie be alone in her pain. And Addie took care of Elena when she needed someone too, with lots of cuddles on the couch while watching TV. I love that they took their time and still gave each other a second chance, because they are it for each other.
I received an ARC copy of this book.
October 6, 2025
Never friends… but so much more than that.
When your first love becomes your one and only.
Elena and Addison have known each other forever and always felt the gravitational pull between them.
Although Addison is surrounded by a loving and supporting family, she struggled for a while to accept what she truly wanted and needed. At 18 years old, she is finally ready to face her true nature for the first time and invest in her attraction to Elena.
Elena always wanted Addison, but never overstepped and forced her into something she wasn’t ready for.
When they finally get together, sparks fly and they realise how deep their love and connection truly is.
Unfortunately, fate has other plans for them and with a painful sacrifice from Elena, they get separated.
Heartbroken and healing from another huge loss, they finally cross paths 4 years later. Their feelings are still very much alive, but due to the past, they need to build a trustworthy friendship first and Elena is determined to be by Addison’s side through everything.
A beautiful love story about sacrificing yourself for the ones you love.
Dani Grimes explores strong feelings, family ties, attraction, support, pain and loss in a perfect balanced way.
Thank you for the ARC.
When your first love becomes your one and only.
Elena and Addison have known each other forever and always felt the gravitational pull between them.
Although Addison is surrounded by a loving and supporting family, she struggled for a while to accept what she truly wanted and needed. At 18 years old, she is finally ready to face her true nature for the first time and invest in her attraction to Elena.
Elena always wanted Addison, but never overstepped and forced her into something she wasn’t ready for.
When they finally get together, sparks fly and they realise how deep their love and connection truly is.
Unfortunately, fate has other plans for them and with a painful sacrifice from Elena, they get separated.
Heartbroken and healing from another huge loss, they finally cross paths 4 years later. Their feelings are still very much alive, but due to the past, they need to build a trustworthy friendship first and Elena is determined to be by Addison’s side through everything.
A beautiful love story about sacrificing yourself for the ones you love.
Dani Grimes explores strong feelings, family ties, attraction, support, pain and loss in a perfect balanced way.
Thank you for the ARC.
October 15, 2025
You know those stories that feel soft, slow, and heartbreakingly real? Yeah, this one hits right in the emotions.
Elena and Addison’s story isn’t your typical friends-to-lovers; they were never really friends, just two souls who always knew there was something more. Their connection feels natural, full of quiet tension and unspoken longing that slowly turns into something real and deep.
I liked how the story explores self-acceptance and timing. Addison’s journey of coming to terms with what she truly wants feels honest and vulnerable. Elena’s patience and care make their dynamic even more touching. When they finally come together, it’s passionate but also tender in all the right ways.
The second-chance aspect hits hard. Their separation, the grief, and the slow rebuild of trust give the story its emotional weight. Dani Grimes balances love, loss, and family bonds beautifully, even if the pacing leans more emotional than dramatic.
All in all, a tender, heartfelt story about love that endures, even through pain, distance, and time. Perfect if you like soft romance, quiet resilience, and characters who feel human.
Elena and Addison’s story isn’t your typical friends-to-lovers; they were never really friends, just two souls who always knew there was something more. Their connection feels natural, full of quiet tension and unspoken longing that slowly turns into something real and deep.
I liked how the story explores self-acceptance and timing. Addison’s journey of coming to terms with what she truly wants feels honest and vulnerable. Elena’s patience and care make their dynamic even more touching. When they finally come together, it’s passionate but also tender in all the right ways.
The second-chance aspect hits hard. Their separation, the grief, and the slow rebuild of trust give the story its emotional weight. Dani Grimes balances love, loss, and family bonds beautifully, even if the pacing leans more emotional than dramatic.
All in all, a tender, heartfelt story about love that endures, even through pain, distance, and time. Perfect if you like soft romance, quiet resilience, and characters who feel human.
October 6, 2025
Love, Loss, and Second Chances in Paradise]
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes: Second chance romance, forced proximity, vacation fling turned real, secret revealed
Never Friends by Dani Grimes delivers an emotional, slow-burn second chance sapphic romance set against the lush backdrop of Oahu. Addison and Elena’s story is tender, messy, and achingly human—two women bound by a summer love that never really ended. When grief brings Addison back home, being forced under the same roof reignites everything they tried to forget.
Elena’s guilt and unresolved feelings add depth to the story, while Addison’s struggle with loss and love makes her easy to root for. The emotional beats hit hard, and the chemistry feels genuine, though the pacing drags a little in the middle as they circle around the same issues before confronting the truth.
Still, Grimes nails the bittersweet pull of first love and the bravery it takes to try again. This one’s for readers who love tender reconnections, Hawaiian sunsets, and a romance that earns its healing.
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️
Tropes: Second chance romance, forced proximity, vacation fling turned real, secret revealed
Never Friends by Dani Grimes delivers an emotional, slow-burn second chance sapphic romance set against the lush backdrop of Oahu. Addison and Elena’s story is tender, messy, and achingly human—two women bound by a summer love that never really ended. When grief brings Addison back home, being forced under the same roof reignites everything they tried to forget.
Elena’s guilt and unresolved feelings add depth to the story, while Addison’s struggle with loss and love makes her easy to root for. The emotional beats hit hard, and the chemistry feels genuine, though the pacing drags a little in the middle as they circle around the same issues before confronting the truth.
Still, Grimes nails the bittersweet pull of first love and the bravery it takes to try again. This one’s for readers who love tender reconnections, Hawaiian sunsets, and a romance that earns its healing.
October 19, 2025
Elena and Addison.
This second chance romance dives into Elena and Addi's past and current circumstances. When we meet Addison and Elena.. Addison has just lost her mother and honestly, this book is heavier than some of the other topics Dani Grimes has touched before. Losing a parent is beyond comprehension for most, especially when you're close like Addi was with her mom.
We get a glimpse into their past.. the summer of love. The reasons why Elena is the way she is now and why they had to part ways.
Never Friends is going to tug at your heart strings and glow with love as these two rediscover how love can be.. different when older, when there aren't secrets.
Thank you to the author and The Author Agency for an advance reader copy for an honest review.
This second chance romance dives into Elena and Addi's past and current circumstances. When we meet Addison and Elena.. Addison has just lost her mother and honestly, this book is heavier than some of the other topics Dani Grimes has touched before. Losing a parent is beyond comprehension for most, especially when you're close like Addi was with her mom.
We get a glimpse into their past.. the summer of love. The reasons why Elena is the way she is now and why they had to part ways.
Never Friends is going to tug at your heart strings and glow with love as these two rediscover how love can be.. different when older, when there aren't secrets.
Thank you to the author and The Author Agency for an advance reader copy for an honest review.
October 20, 2025
I love a when a second chance it written well and this one was. I also enjoyed how this book was written in a split timeline. We get their story from when their love story began one summer and then the heartbreak they endured while apart. And then 4 years laters, the feelings are all still there. Elena always knew who she was, but Addison wasn’t always as sure or outspoken about it. And Elena never pressured her into it. This book has you going through grief, loss, all the emotions, and finding that love again with the person you never truly let go of. Slowly they begin to build their friendship again and Elena is determined to be by her side. It’s a beautiful love story, watching people sacrifice themselves sometimes for those that they love. The banter and spice was perfect.
October 15, 2025
I really loved Never Friends! Elena and Addison’s story was such a mix of heartbreak and warmth — it honestly got me in my feelings more than once. Their connection felt so real, and the way their past and present tangled together made it impossible not to root for them.
I loved how the author wrote both characters — they felt genuine, imperfect, and easy to care about. Elena especially stole my heart, but Addison’s grief and vulnerability added so much depth to the story.
It’s one of those books that hurts in the best way, but still leaves you with a little bit of hope at the end. Genuinely such a good, emotional read.
Thank you to Dani Grimes and The Author Agency for the ARC !!!
I loved how the author wrote both characters — they felt genuine, imperfect, and easy to care about. Elena especially stole my heart, but Addison’s grief and vulnerability added so much depth to the story.
It’s one of those books that hurts in the best way, but still leaves you with a little bit of hope at the end. Genuinely such a good, emotional read.
Thank you to Dani Grimes and The Author Agency for the ARC !!!
December 3, 2025
I devoured Elena and Addison’s story in Never Friends by Dani Grimes and loved it so much. This author’s storytelling was beautifully written and will give you all the feels. I found myself getting all teary eyed reading some of the emotional scenes and only powerful writing will bring me to that point. I thoroughly enjoyed learning about Elena and Addison’s past and following their journey to HEA.
October 23, 2025
Elena and Addison are cute together. This second chance was amazing but I hate the reason they broke up. Elena at least gave Kai the heads-up when she told Addison but in a small way I think was too generous. It was sad that Addison's mom passed away and what she did. Elena and Addison are going to go places and they are amazing together. Protective of each other and very possessive too.
October 18, 2025
ARC review
I had the privilege of reading this book early. It was amazing. The dual timeline really captures the relationship between these women!!
Now I need to go read the first 2 in the series lol.
I had the privilege of reading this book early. It was amazing. The dual timeline really captures the relationship between these women!!
Now I need to go read the first 2 in the series lol.
December 21, 2025
Never Friends
Addison and Elena have know each other since they were in diapers thanks to their parents friendship. Though the only time they interact is usually during the summer when Addison's family visits Oahu.
Over the years feelings for each other grew, though Elena has come out, Addison was never sure about her sexuality .... until the summer of her 18th year. But things happen at the end of the summer in which Elena and Addison admit to their attraction to cause a rift and now four years later, Elena wants Addison for always.
This was my very first saphic read and it was beautiful. Love how Addison finally admits that she is gay even though her mom already had an idea. The whole summer of rebellion is great in getting Elena and Addison together, even though the reason behind it is heart breaking (Nikki) .... when Elena invites Addison to stay at her apartment for school, you know its a matter of time for the truth behind the "breakup " comes out.
I absolutely love that Elena is Leo-obsessed about Addison...... the clothing made with Addison in mind ......
And the tattoo that Jace designed is chefs kiss
Addison and Elena have know each other since they were in diapers thanks to their parents friendship. Though the only time they interact is usually during the summer when Addison's family visits Oahu.
Over the years feelings for each other grew, though Elena has come out, Addison was never sure about her sexuality .... until the summer of her 18th year. But things happen at the end of the summer in which Elena and Addison admit to their attraction to cause a rift and now four years later, Elena wants Addison for always.
This was my very first saphic read and it was beautiful. Love how Addison finally admits that she is gay even though her mom already had an idea. The whole summer of rebellion is great in getting Elena and Addison together, even though the reason behind it is heart breaking (Nikki) .... when Elena invites Addison to stay at her apartment for school, you know its a matter of time for the truth behind the "breakup " comes out.
I absolutely love that Elena is Leo-obsessed about Addison...... the clothing made with Addison in mind ......
And the tattoo that Jace designed is chefs kiss
November 19, 2025
Again Grimes never disappoints, continuing on with her next gen series. I know FF isnt popular but its one of my favs. Elena and Addison, their moms are best friends and they are forced together during summers. Both secretly crushing on each other until the one summer they both break. A secret that keeps them apart for 4 years, a death that reunites them later. Another great read!
December 24, 2025
A love story full of heart break, dying wishes, true love, friendship and never friendships. This book will have you crying and giggling and everything in between. I fall in love with these families more with each book. I think we need more of Logan and Mason. Can’t wait for the next couples
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