Always You

by Shae Green

Sometimes, first loves need a second chance.

After her father’s promotion uproots their family to the opposite end of the city, thirteen-year-old Kaia Cooper has to leave behind the only real friend she knows. Surviving the move means keeping her head down and her nose in a book.

Except…

Life has other plans.

The charming and thoughtful boy next door, Xavier Newson, makes it impossible for Kaia to keep her eyes on any page. His patient and loyal nature breaks down her defenses, showing her that for someone, she is the kind of girl she reads about in her stories.

Through the trials of adolescence, the pair’s friendship blooms into a love that lasts more than seven idyllic years.

Except…

Life has other plans.

As adults, Kaia and Xavier face the harsh reality that love alone may not be enough to keep them together, and their once unbreakable bond fractures.

Despite the chasm leaving them miles apart physically, they discover that elsewhere, they may not be as far away as it seems.

Together, they have to decide if their history is worth reforging the future, or if they should finally leave it in the past.

Genres: Friends To Lovers

384 pages, Kindle Edition

Published August 26, 2025

About the author

Shae Green writes contemporary romance that sizzles with sharp wit, heart-tugging emotion, and the perfect dash of spice. Her stories blend humor, vulnerability, and chemistry that lingers long after the final page, offering readers a place to laugh, swoon, and feel deeply seen. With a flair for crafting unforgettable banter and characters who love hard and grow harder, Shae brings a fresh, relatable voice to modern love stories.

When she’s not plotting character arcs or unspooling her next slow-burn romance, Shae is likely curled up with her loyal, four-legged sidekick and a cup of something warm. Her self-care routine includes marathon sessions of anime, a healthy obsession with overly dramatic reality TV (purely for research purposes, of course), and getting lost in stories—whether she's writing them or devouring them.

Reviews

[Rani El-Amin · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.75-4 stars!⭐️ This was my first arc ever I’ve had the chance to read and I thought this was an overall refreshing book! With it being a second chance romance I was expecting a big time jump, but I actually enjoyed that it didn’t because it allowed us to see how connected Kaia and Xavier’s lives were from the very beginning as kids and how strong their relationship grew over the years.

When I first stated reading it took me a bit to get into their story but once I did, I was into it! Kaia reminded me of myself in SO many ways- from her personality to her profession in education. I loved being able to connect with her and read how Xavier loved her in a way where she felt seen, which is what any of us introverts really want. Xavier was so lovable and brought great humor and loved whenever he and Kaia were interacting.

There were some moments where the story lost me a little but there were so many great moments that I really loved and were funny! I appreciate including the wedding scene because I feel like most books skip over the couples exchanging vows so that was cute to read. I’m satisfied with this story and so glad I had the chance to read it!

[Ari · Rating 4 out of 5]

3.5 rounded up to 4 for Goodreads.

Overall, this was a solid read. There were definitely some parts I didn’t vibe with (that’s a me thing), but Kaia and Xavier’s relationship carried the book for me. From their first meet all the way to the end, they just clicked. I was low key bracing myself for a 3rd act breakup, but thankfully it never happened. I really appreciated how both characters gave themselves space to grow into better people before reconnecting emotionally and physically.

The writing itself was good, no issues there. My only gripe was closer to the end, I found it harder to stay connected with the characters. Around the 70–80% mark, the pacing dipped, and it honestly dragged a bit. Once I pushed through, though, the story picked back up and landed nicely.

Both Kaia and Xavier had their messy moments (& yes, I was most def yelling at my kindle and calling them out of their names 😅), but they were still relatable and likeable overall. Definitely worth the read, even if it lost me for a bit in the middle

[Jasmine VanDross · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW::::
I love second chance love stories and this book was perfect. The way their love story had me sitting on the edge of my seat. I was praying they got it together. Some times you have to let go to find out who you are outside of your partner and I’m happy that got to happen for Xylophone and Shy.

[Rebelle · Rating 4 out of 5]

Sometimes love does need a second chance.

Shae Green definitely showed the true test of love and time with this book.

It was amazing watching Kaia and Xavier’s love evolve from mere childhood friends to facing different challenges that they had to overcome.

This book was very relatable and both MCs had strong personalities. Shae Green showed how two people who never gave up on true love gained their happy ending. I fell in love with Xavier and how he shows out for Kaia while they maneuver different obstacles. Xavier definitely put his all into becoming the best man he could be for Kaia.

This book was full of feels and I was cheering for them from start to finish of this book cause they definitely deserved their happy ending.

[Chyanne · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very cute if you’re wanting a wholesome friends to lovers story that spans from them as teenagers into adulthood. I really appreciated being able to see their growth together throughout the years.

“I once read something like, ‘don’t choose the one who makes your heart race. Choose the one who makes your heart settle’,” she said. “Either I hit the jackpot, or that person was wrong, because why wouldn’t you look for the one who does both?”

[VickydpBooks · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was ok it’s boring until half way through it and picks up!! IN MY OPINION

Blurb

Sometimes, first loves need a second chance.

After her father’s promotion uproots their family to the opposite end of the city, thirteen-year-old Kaia Cooper has to leave behind the only real friend she knows. Surviving the move means keeping her head down and her nose in a book.

Except…

Life has other plans.

The charming and thoughtful boy next door, Xavier Newson, makes it impossible for Kaia to keep her eyes on any page. His patient and loyal nature breaks down her defenses, showing her that for someone, she is the kind of girl she reads about in her stories.

Through the trials of adolescence, the pair’s friendship blooms into a love that lasts more than seven idyllic years.

Except…

Life has other plans.

As adults, Kaia and Xavier face the harsh reality that love alone may not be enough to keep them together, and their once unbreakable bond fractures.

Despite the chasm leaving them miles apart physically, they discover that elsewhere, they may not be as far away as it seems.

Together, they have to decide if their history is worth reforging the future, or if they should finally leave it in the past.

[Dana · Rating 4 out of 5]

FIRST LOVE, YOUNG LOVE, BLACK LOVE @shaegreenwrites ALWAYS YOU has it all and then some.

Loved getting to know Kaia, X, and Dawk (my fav).

We meet Kaia and Xavier, watch them evolve from young love to grown folks doing grown folk things

Kaia and Xavier felt so real, their struggles and wins really hit home. Their undeniable chemistry makes their journey captivating, and one I can see myself always coming back to.

Beautiful coming-of-age story. I needed more of Pete

[PlotTwistErika💙 · Rating 3 out of 5]

ARC REVIEW
⭐ 3.5/5

Always You by Shae Green is a tender second-chance romance that follows Kaia and Xavier from childhood friends to first loves, and ultimately, to adults who must face the reality that love alone may not be enough.

What I loved most was the nostalgia of young love—the way their friendship naturally blossomed into something more, and the loyalty Xavier showed throughout. Shae Green captured that heart-fluttering sweetness of being truly seen for the first time.

That said, this was definitely a slow burn. While it gave the story a realistic, character-driven pace, I sometimes found myself wishing the plot would move a little quicker to match the emotional intensity.

Overall, Always You is a heartfelt, steady-paced romance for readers who enjoy stories where love grows with time and distance, and where the question remains: can history be enough to rebuild a future?

[Twinkle.butt.reads · Rating 3 out of 5]

“Always You” is a beautifully crafted coming-of-age story that explores the complexities of love, friendship, and personal growth over a fifteen-year journey. Shae Green masterfully intertwines the lives of Kaia and Xavier, capturing their evolution from young love to mature relationships amidst the backdrop of family challenges and societal expectations.
Kaia and Xavier are relatable and well-developed, with their individual struggles and triumphs resonating deeply. Their chemistry is palpable, making their journey engaging.
The book tackles themes of identity, the impact of family dynamics, and the importance of self-acceptance, particularly for introverts who may feel overlooked.
Green’s prose is both lyrical and accessible, drawing readers into the emotional landscape of the characters.
“Always You” is a heartfelt exploration of the trials of growing up and navigating relationships. It’s a must-read for anyone looking for a story that balances nostalgia with real-life challenges. Perfect for fans of contemporary romance and coming-of-age tales!

[Chanel · Rating 5 out of 5]

Sweet, absolutely beautiful and so much love in this book.
It was a second chance love story and I loved every minute of it. I was soaking it all up. I was definitely enjoying every moment, I felt connected to this characters.
It was an emotional experience with Kaia and Xavier.
It was written extremely carefully with the expand of 15 years timeline. You definitely grow up with the 15 year old love birds. It was about young adult love to a forever lasting type of love. It a journey and you will enjoy the entire journey.

[Bookish Rose · Rating 5 out of 5]

Dedication: For all my introverts who never thought they’d get to be the main character because they’re not interesting enough, this one is for you :)

Going into this, I had a tiny idea of what to expect with their story because we got check-ins from Kaia (the FMC) throughout Shae’s other series, which focuses on Kaia’s bestie, Alex. But I had no clue Kaia & Xavier’s story would be this emotionally sweet!

“You don’t have to worry about a thing, Kaia Cooper. I got you, aight?”
She sighed and moved closer, gently placing her lips on mine. The last almost twenty-four hours I’d felt distant not only physically, but emotionally. Kissing my girl felt like coming home. Felt like long walks. Big laughs. Warm hugs.
My safe place. That was why I didn’t think twice about crying earlier. In her presence, I always felt secure.
From now on, I’d put her first, no matter what.

I absolutely LOVE them! I mean, how can you do anything but root for these two adorable babes who literally fell in love with the person next door? It was obviously emotional (most second chances romances are), but above everything else, their love is sweet. It’s like settling in with your favorite blanket & chatting with your besties, laughing about something… just joy.

"...People trust him, and he’s never had a vote against him.”
“Yeah, they trust him and then he votes them out.”
“Wow. It’s… almost like… it’s a game?”
Xavier turned around and asked, “If you, quite possibly one of the pettiest people I’ve ever met, were on this season, would you align with him? Would you vote for him to win if he was responsible for getting your ass out?”
“I—Sit back.”
“Mhmm.” He turned. Smugly.
“I will leave you looking like this if you don’t cut it out.”
“Bet you would, Petty Labelle.” I picked up the comb I was using.
“I mean it. I’ll leave these last few locs looking raggedy."
“And I’ll tell your momma.”

I think Shae did a fantastic job guiding us through this 15-year timeline. From teenage love to young adult love to forever love, we go on a journey with these two. And this story is unapologetically & beautifully Black.

I almost thought I was hallucinating because the sun bounced off different shades of brown every few feet. A darker toffee-brown like me and my family, mowing the lawn. Chickpea-brown chasing after hazelnut-shell-brown. Penny-brown slapping a soapy sponge onto a windshield.

So many diversities within the Black community were represented in this story & our main characters showcased their brilliance in amazing ways. Whether Xavier’s absolutely crushing it as a mechanic or Kaia’s soaring as an education professional, both our MCs & their friends are supportive of each other & their successes. This book had me kicking my feet, squealing, blushing, & clutching my heart... all of the things I love!

“When you finish making your mark on this place, and you come back to me, I wanna wake up next to you every morning. I wanna make love to you every night. I wanna make you proud to have my last name. I want to make kids that we raise so fucking good that they have no choice but to want to take care of us even when we’re wrinkly and senile.” ...
“Me too, me too. X. Put it on, please,” I whined.
“Now, let me finish. Because I can hear both of our mothers yelling at us if I don’t do this the right way.”
He was absolutely correct, so I nodded.
“You officially trying to be Kaia Newson or nah?”
“Boy—that’s the right way?”
X snickered, but that twinkle returned to his eye. “Kaia Nichele Cooper, will you marry me?”
“Yes. I will,” I said, letting him put the ring on my left finger.
I was certainly feeling the euphoria of being a newly minted fiancée, but I also felt a calmness. A rightness.
This was right, and I was looking forward to coming back to Xavier and creating that life together.

One of my favorite things about Shae’s writing is her ability to write a romance that’s fully grounded in reality, while still bringing me a fictional story about fictional people falling in love & living their fictional lives.

I knew the difference between quiet Kaia, and quiet Kaia.
Quiet Kaia liked to stare at the moon. She liked to hum when she thought Dawk was the only one around to hear her. She was always highlighting new words or putting sticky tabs on the pages of her books until they looked like rainbow fans.
Quiet Kaia stared at the ground as if it had swallowed her voice. She’d fold her arms over her chest almost like a shield, protecting her from whatever was making her uncomfortable.

She builds each scene with her vivid descriptive writing & develops her characters so well that they come alive. Reading her stories feels like watching a movie because every page plays out so clearly in my head.

"... Suddenly, the world at my fingertips became a lot more interesting than the ones created within the pages of my favorite books. It brought me a love that stole my breath and gave it back tenfold. That impaired my senses, yet left me more aware of my surroundings than ever before. That helped me grow wings to fly anywhere, but no matter how far I flew, welcomed me back without condition.”
“Wow,” somebody whispered.
No kidding.
“To the man who chose to sit by my side in the world’s biggest classroom, a.k.a life, know this. I promise to love you without ego. To learn the way your needs change, and then nourish that growth. Every day, another thread bursts from my heart to connect to yours, where it belongs. I belong with you, Xavier. Now, then, and forever.”

While this book kept the things I love about Shae’s writing, it was also very different. It’s told in first person, it doesn’t stretch across multiple books but it does stretch over a 15-year timeline (told chronologically), & there isn’t a mystery/suspense subplot. Still, Shae delivered another fantastic book, which showcases her talent. She’s officially a “if they write it, I’m gonna read it” author for me. Such a fantastic story!

In every loving relationship I had the privilege to observe—my parents, my siblings, my friends—at some point, there was the evident responsibility of caring for someone in a way they couldn’t do for themselves.
Xavier and I didn’t have to be those people for each other, but even after all these years, we still wanted to be...
“But love is… it makes us feel fearless enough to drop all the armor around us, but in doing so, we leave ourselves vulnerable to utter devastation. That’s the risk.”
“Shy—”
“I love you, Xavier Newson. With you I feel weightless, unburdened, safe, empowered, and seen. So, I’m ready to take on the risk again.”
...
I’d found peace in my wife. Our silent pauses weren’t of discomfort, but of adoration.
Reverence for the eyes that beheld more than a decade of transformation.
Hands that nurtured ego into grace. Mouths that spoke faith and fortitude.

[Kia · Rating 3 out of 5]

I’m a dark romance girly so it was refreshing to read a love story that kind of mirrors my own relationship!! That teenage love affair that eventually blossomed into an unconditional love even thru the trials and tribulations of life!! Xavier and Kaia had moments where I was like seriously dummy but also it really shows the benefits of taking that young love and allowing it to grow up, mature and then opening yourself up to a second chance! It was a not exactly what I was expecting but I enjoyed it!!

[Vriii · Rating 5 out of 5]

"Have you ever stopped to think that maybe the world sees you differently than you see yourself?"

My roommate said the same thing to me when I was struggling in college, and it has stuck with me since. Obviously, I haven’t completely agreed with her, but it definitely does help me gain some self-worth and a boost.

This book ain’t your typical love story where the main leads get into a relationship and confess their feelings in the last part of the book, which leads to happily ever after. No, it’s about what happens after happily ever after. It’s about the struggles and different phases of the relationship, finding each other again and again even after arguments and major setbacks.

While reading the book, I was mad at the main leads—like either be together-together or not. Why do you have to do all these things? But then I realized that they were being realistic. A successful relationship isn’t the one that is perfect and flawless; in fact, it’s the one that is imperfect and has flaws.

Kaia is one of the most relatable characters I have read. The way she struggles to fit in is so me. From her first relationship, to friendship struggles, to her inner thoughts—I saw myself in her.

The character I like the most in the book is Leam. The way he anchors everyone around him and gives the best advice—he felt like the person you need in your life to ground you and call you out on your bullshit. He says Kaia is one of the smartest people he knows, but he is wrong because for me, he is the smartest one.

This book shows how girls stood up for each other, the girl gang who always have your back. The way they supported each other is so wholesome >>>>

The cupid of their story, Dawk, the furry ball 🥹🤍. I love him >>>>

And last but not the least, our male lead Xavier—this guy wears his heart on his sleeve. He puts everyone’s needs first instead of caring about himself. I ADORE HIM >>>>>

Definitely recommend.

Thank you, Shae Green, for providing me with the ARC copy of this beautiful book.

[Sherley's Reading Corner · Rating 4 out of 5]

This was my first read from this author, and I enjoyed it. 𝐀𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐘𝐨𝐮 is a slow burn, second chance romance that takes the reader on a heartfelt journey of love. The pacing worked beautifully, allowing the author the opportunity to showcase the depth of the characters’ history and the strength of their bond.

I loved seeing Xavier and Kaia's journey from the very beginning. From the first day they met when she moved into his neighborhood, he was smitten with her. Watching their friendship blossom into young love was so sweet.

Still, as we all know, life is not perfect, and love isn't always enough. Though these two cared a lot for each other, life took them on different paths. As a person that is in their late 30s, I appreciated that, though young, Xavier was able to recognize that love isn't always enough, and he made the mature decision that these two should follow their dreams, work on themselves as individuals, and go their separate ways.

The way Kaia and X got back together brought realness to the story. I liked that they didn't just jump back into things and fall back in love after years of being apart. Instead, they worked on themselves, rebuilt their friendship, and only came back together once the trust was there.

𝑶𝒕𝒉𝒆𝒓 𝒕𝒉𝒊𝒏𝒈𝒔 𝒕𝒉𝒂𝒕 𝑰 𝒍𝒊𝒌𝒆𝒅 𝒂𝒃𝒐𝒖𝒕 𝒕𝒉𝒆 𝒔𝒕𝒐𝒓𝒚:
💚How Kaia followed her dreams.
💚X finding success as a mechanic showed that school and career paths are not one-size-fits-all.
💚I loved that the Germains were Haitian and that a little bit of Creole was spoken in the book. The cultural rep was beautiful! As a Haitian person myself, I really appreciated this.

Overall, this was a good read. Like I said, this was a slow burn, and there were times that I wished there was more focus on the romance and that the pacing was a little bit faster, but it all worked itself out and everything tied together beautifully in the end.

I would recommend 𝐀𝐥𝐰𝐚𝐲𝐬 𝐘𝐨𝐮 and I look forward to reading more from this author.

[The Plot Thickens Book Club · Rating 5 out of 5]

Always You by Shae Green
Reviewed by Jennifer Jernigan for The Plot Thickens Book Club
5 ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
5 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Never have I ever read such a sweet, loving & romantic story with so much spice!!
I fell instantly in love with Kaia & Xavier. Knowing the story stretches over 15 years I just knew their character development was going to be amazing!!
When the cutest 4 legged doggy forces newcomer Kaia Cooper & boy next door Xavier Newson to meet its an instant friendship.
Kaia is a beautiful, smart, & kind young girl but being introverted holds her back & it doesn’t always allow people to really get to know her. But Xavier is having none of that. He is determined to pull who she really is to the surface for all to see.
As the years go by Kaia & Xavier’s friendship develops into more (it was evident it was going to happen from day one, so you will scream “about dang time” lol). And when they fall for each other they fall hard!
But no matter how perfect they are for one another they still have challenges to face. College & jobs put significant distance between them. That alone brings its own difficulties. When Kaia & Xavier begin to realize that distance isn’t their only problem their relationship takes a major hit. They are going in opposite directions. Things they thought they would never have to deal with are now front & center in their lives.
No spoilers here, so if you want to know where Kaia & Xavier’s stories go you will have to read this book!!
This is my first Shae Green book & I am hooked!! She writes beautifully & tells a captivating story!!

[Jannique | NiquesBookishVibes · Rating 4 out of 5]

💛ARC BOOK REVIEW💚

GIRL…Grab your coffee, light those candles, curl up in a blanket and let me tell you about the romance that felt like a warm hug… ☕🐶💚

✨Always You by Shae Green is a heartfelt second-chance romance that completely pulled me in. It’s one of those kind of stories that reminds you how powerful ‘first love’ can be—messy, beautiful and impossible to forget. The small-town vibes add that perfect cozy touch, giving the nostalgic “home” feeling following two people who are learning to love each other all over again. It was giving what it needed to give!!

What I loved most is how Shae balances the swoony, romantic moments with the raw emotions of heartbreak and growth. You really feel the characters’ journey, the tension of what was lost and the sweetness of finding their way back 💛 Can’t forget about my boy Dawk🐾

If you’re a fan of romances that blend comfort, charm and just the right amount of ache, this one will be a new favorite.

👉🏾Adding to your TBR?

************************************************
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[Cassi B · Rating 4 out of 5]

“When you finish making your mark on this place, and you come back to me, I wanna wake up next to you every morning. I wanna make love to you every night. I wanna make you proud to have my last name. I want to make kids that we raise so fucking good that they have no choice but to want to take care of us even when we’re wrinkly and senile.”

💛💚💛💚💛💚

💚Black MCs
💛Friends to Lovers
💚Second Chance
💛He Falls First
💚Love Across Time
💛Slow Burn

💛💚💛💚💛💚

3.5 Rounded Up

Watching Kaia & Xavier grow up, together, separate, and back together was so realistic it almost hurt. Sometimes romance books are a little too fantastical, even in the contemporary realm, but this was definitely not. But to be reminded of those early young love feelings? Swoon... Their love shows how time can test us all, but how great it is to have someone who truly sees all of you. Love isn't just a feeling...it's everything.

It does take a bit to get into this book, at least for me it did, but I got there. I even originally shelved it as DNF but went back to it. :) Thank you to Happily Booked PR for an ARC on this one!

[Amayah Griffin · Rating 5 out of 5]

**ARC REVIEW**

I honestly didn’t know what to expect when reading Always You, but I’m so glad to say that I enjoyed every minute of this book! Xavier and Kaia’s love story is one that grows over time and we as the reader get to witness this love blossom throughout the entire book. Xavier and Kaia are childhood friends who then become high school sweethearts that eventually grow up and are faced with the challenges that adult life brings while also trying to hold on to their relationship with each other.

This was a different kind of second chance romance because even though Xavier and Kaia do eventually part ways, they never really let each other go. We get see how they develop both individually as well as a couple, and as the story goes, they both know that they end game for each other. I honestly loved everything about this story, especially Xavier. He was so accepting and patient with Kaia as their relationship evolved and never gave up on the love that they shared. 10/10.

[SpicySeoulReads · Rating 5 out of 5]

ARC Review

This was my first read by Shae Green, and I’m honestly excited to dive back in and check out her other works! I really loved Kaia & Xavier’s journey. Friends to Livers was my favorite trope for a very long time and honestly what got me back into reading. While I’ve ventured away from this trope, Always You brought me back and helped me to remember why it’s so special. I love the chronological timeline. I loved being able to see how the feelings progressed, how the friendship grew, and ultras made them decide to take the leap and date.

I hate that they had to go through the heartache, but I do believe it was necessary to achieve the character growth. Sometimes, when you’re with someone for so long, and at a young age, it’s easy to get so lost in each other, that you lose sight of yourself. But if it’s meant to be, it will be.

Loved this story truly, and excited for what’s to come!

[Joy · Rating 5 out of 5]

Always You by Shae Green
Read: Sep 26-30, 2025

5 stars!!!!

I love this book so muchhhhh! 🥹💘 The long-term relationship portrayed here was so beautiful to follow, and it honestly felt like I grew up alongside the couple. From their innocent beginnings to blossoming into a wonderful man and woman, their journey showed how love can evolve into something deep, mature, and timeless. I adored their dynamics too!! They were such a perfect match, and the way they complemented each other made their story unique and unforgettable. ><

What stood out most to me was how the book captured the reality and beauty of long-term relationships. There may be moments of chaos and challenge, but in the end, true love always finds its way back. Their humor, conversations, love, and friendship were absolutely top-tier, making them feel so real that I couldn’t help but root for them.

This story not only warmed my heart but also made me dream of experiencing this kind of enduring love someday. 💖

[Princess Myles · Rating 4 out of 5]

Always You was more than a romance to me. Shae Green used Kaia and Xavier’s love story as a way to show what it looks like to come of age, to stumble, to grow, and to fully step into yourself while still carrying love along the way.

What stood out most was how layered the story felt. Their relationship was never just about falling in love, it was about learning timing, about seeing yourself clearly, and about having someone who gives you a safe place to land even when the world feels unsteady. Xavier did that for Kaia, and in return, we watched her embrace herself and her voice with a strength that felt both tender and real.

It gave me the ache of right person, wrong time, the sweetness of friends-to-lovers, and the slow burn of a second chance. But underneath all that, it felt like a journey—a reminder that love can be part of your becoming, shaping you while you learn to shape yourself. That is what makes Always You linger.

[Deshda's · Rating 4 out of 5]

Always You reads like a slow jam you forgot you loved—familiar, tender, and a little bittersweet. It gives you that Love Jones spoken-word intimacy, the Love & Basketball slow-burn emotional timing (without the sport), and the Brown Sugar kind of love that grows over time, not overnight.

The romance is full of real-life tension—mistakes, miscommunication, and those moments when love asks for patience. And the family? All in your business, but with grace and good intentions. That soft accountability made the characters feel held.

Some parts lingered too long, some too briefly, and the plot never quite surprised—but it still felt good. Not perfect, but warm enough to stay with you. Overall I really liked this read. Thanks for this ARC read.

[Sam · Rating 3 out of 5]

This was my first book by Shae Green. The author walks us through the lives and stories of X and Kaia. At times, the phrasing did have me pausing. That’s definitely on me, not the author.

The story goes through the interconnected lives of Kaia, and Xavier. Friends and mutual childhood crushes, to love, to heartbreak, and then finding themselves and coming back together. It stresses the importance of finding and being yourself out side of someone else, while still letting them be yourself peace, and your soft place to land. I don’t think that’s stressed enough in current romance novels, so it was absolutely beautiful to see.


Tropes include
-childhood friends to lovers
-secondchance romance.
-mechanic mmc
-educated fmc
-she does his hair
-and so much more.

[Tasha S · Rating 5 out of 5]

Always You is a heartfelt, fifteen-year journey of first loves, heartbreaks, and second chances. Kaia and Xavier’s story is nostalgic, tender, and so real—you’ll feel every messy, beautiful moment as they grow up, drift apart, and keep finding their way back to each other.

I loved the authentic cultural details, the music woven into the story, and the way Shae Green writes emotion with such warmth and humor. Kaia is quietly relatable, Xavier is steady and unforgettable, and together they make a slow-burn romance that sneaks under your skin and stays there.

If you enjoy friends-to-lovers, stories that span years, and romances that feel both earned and deeply human, this one is for you.

🙏 Thank you to Shae Green for the ARC!

[Jalisa · Rating 4 out of 5]

I am a new lover to second chance stories and this is a new to me author. This one had me hooked from the start because it kicked in nostalgia from Love & Basketball when they meet as kids. Overall the pacing was alright, it leans towards a slow burn and intentionally made it about more than just the romance. The FMC & MMC were not without their moments and I found myself frustrated with them a bit but eventually it comes together.

This kind of story is one I'd encourage my daughters to read when they're a little older. The theme of truly knowing yourself and following your dreams resonated loud and clear for me and was appreciated.

Tropes; second chance romance, blue collar MMC, white collar FMC, childhood friends

ARC

[Ukiyo · Rating 4 out of 5]

Thank you Shae Green and Happily Booked PR for the ARC opportunity for this story.

Always You was my first read from Shae Green, and it was such a wonderful surprise. This slow burn, second chance romance is heartfelt and emotional, weaving together love and resilience.

Kaia and Xavier’s relationship felt genuine from start to finish, their chemistry was undeniable, and their struggles made them deeply relatable. What I loved most was how natural their reunion felt. Rather than rushing back into old habits, they took their time to rebuild trust, reconnect as friends, and gradually fall in love again.

It’s a beautifully written story that shows how powerful and lasting first love can be, and it left me excited to pick up more from this author.

[Brandy Ward · Rating 5 out of 5]

We got to meet Kaia briefly in the Between Us trilogy as Alex's best friend who moved away. Getting her background was amazing and I loved being able to get her story and see her falling in love with Xavier. They meet when she moves and they get close even when she tries to keep him at a distance. What is her dynamic with her family? What was the reason they broke up? I love how we got to see what her brother was like and what they did as a family. She became an aunt when she was still in high school. Xavier was also her high school sweetheart and when they announced they were broken up in the Between Us series and now getting to know why they broke up and who ended it was shocking and was amazing. Shae Green did it again and I loved seeing their growth separately and together.

[Alyssa · Rating 5 out of 5]

@shaegreenwrites does it again with my feelings…. I absolutely adore every book that she has written so far, and this one was top notch as well!

Some books only focus on the lovey good parts, but Shae always gives me very realistic vibes of romantic relationships, Shae does so well writing the ugly parts of love, the parts that make you ache and hurt for the main characters. I always feel so many emotions while following along with each story she crafts!

This was an amazing second chance romance that travels across a timeline, which I LOVED because I was able to see the whole love story play out between X and Kaia.

Also, there is a doggy in the book who steals the show for sure!

[Nae Rivers · Rating 4 out of 5]

This one took me on a journey. Kaia and Xavier’s love story spans from their teenage years into adulthood, and it’s anything but simple. What I loved most is that it wasn’t wrapped up in a neat little happily ever after. It was raw, real, and honest about how messy love can get when life gets in the way. Sometimes love isn’t enough in the moment, but if it’s truly yours, it finds its way back.

The unexpected spice had me wide-eyed. And I can’t even lie, their furbaby Dawkins absolutely stole the show. This was such a heartfelt, emotional ride and it left me believing in love that stands the test of time.

[Hollie Barnes · Rating 4 out of 5]

Kaia and Xavier’s story felt so real. They had lovely chemistry. I loved the dual POVs that spanned 15years giving a real feel of their young love and personal growth.

I love a second chance, childhood sweethearts romance. Did you know I’m married to mine? I first met my husband in grade 6 and we have been together since we were 14. With a little break, just like Kaia and X, we found our way back to each other and have been married 23yrs.

Highly recommend if you enjoy coming-of-age romances.