Past Lives

by Matilda Martel

In a city of millions, we were never supposed to meet.
And yet… I keep seeing him.

First at a crowded bar—his gaze finding mine across the noise and lights, familiar in a way that shouldn’t be possible.
Then on a train, as the doors slid shut between us, his eyes locking with mine like he’d been searching for me all his life.

I see him everywhere.
On street corners. In dreams. In memories that don’t belong to me.

Dreams of fire and war, of silk gowns and whispered vows, of storm-tossed shores and promises that never survived the dawn.
Dreams of him.

We’ve loved and lost each other a dozen times across centuries.
But this time—this life—feels different.
This time, maybe we finally get to stay.

126 pages, Kindle Edition

Published November 14, 2025

About the author

Matilda is a Texas girl in love with a Philly boy who loves to write dirty books about two people who trip into love and fumble their way into a Filthy, Funny, Happily Ever After.

I live in Austin, with my husband, two crazy Chihuahuas and an even crazier cat. And I spend most of my day writing dirty romance books about older men who fall in love with younger women and make fools of themselves trying to win their hearts.

If you love Dark Romance, you’ve come to the wrong place. I don’t like dark heroes.

I like my hero to be successful, sweet, suave, sophisticated and kind--- and then I want him to lose all his composure and game when he meets the heroine. I want him to turn into a bumbling idiot when he spots the girl of his dreams and revert to a teenage boy in a man’s body trying to win her.

I like my heroines to be witty, intelligent, and unshakeable---who could do just as well without a man—until the hero convinces her otherwise.

I write A LOT OF AGE GAP--because I LOVE AGE GAP ROMANCE. I’ve got no other excuse for it.

No matter what kind of story it is, my ladies are ADORED, and my endings are always Happily EVER AFTER, not HFN.

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Reviews

[Korkoi · Rating 4 out of 5]

A Destined Soulmate -
This is a slow build romance story about two soulmates who give us a glimpse into each of their different lives, where they seem fated to be together every time the6 are reincarnated. The story took me on an emotional rollercoaster ride, as the characters went through their ups and downs, but ultimately the happiness they deserved. You will enjoy reading this intriguing story with a thought provoking theme.

I received a free review copy of this book via Booksprout and I am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Paige · Rating 4 out of 5]

I really enjoyed the premise of this story and getting to see glimpses of all their past, present and future lives. This was a reincarnation soulmates story about how they find each other through every lifetime. It was a slower burn for the present, a they getting to know each other again vs dealing with the feelings of loss in the past and the wariness that comes with that. I kind of wanted a bit more passionate recognition on Maya’s end, but Heath was great in his awkward little way. I wasn’t too sure about Maya’s best friends reactions, but her and Maya’s mom were interesting side characters. I did really like the premise of him always finding her though. A few editing errors in this one as well. No cheating or OM/OW drama, dual POV and timelines, HEA and a cute epilogue and chapter in the future. Hopeful we’ll get his brothers story, I’d be interested to see if he was reincarnated as well!

[Aleksandra · Rating 5 out of 5]

Past Lives by Matilda Martel is a beautifully emotional reincarnation romance that swept me away from page one. Heath and Maya’s connection feels instantly magnetic—like two souls recognizing each other before their minds can catch up. The glimpses into their previous lifetimes add a rich, dreamy layer to the story, making their present-day slow-burn reunion even more satisfying.

Heath’s awkward sweetness pairs perfectly with Maya’s cautious heart, and watching them navigate memories, destiny, and rediscovered love is both heart-tugging and utterly enchanting. The emotional highs and lows hit just right, and the ending delivers a warm, hopeful HEA that feels well earned.

Romantic, soulful, and wonderfully unique—this is a must-read for anyone who loves soulmate stories told across centuries.

[Laura Wolff · Rating 3 out of 5]

I had a hard time getting through this very short book. It has an intriguing description and was outside of what I normally read. It was well written and I enjoyed parts of it but on a whole it wasn’t my cup of tea.

This story features Maya and Health who I presume have met in several lifetimes and make their way back to each other.

Their connection is instant like they know each other even though they don’t.

The story jumps from the past to the present to different pasts throughout.

I hope you will give Matilda Martel a read and if you enjoy this type of story please give her a chance. She may be your next favorite author. This book just didn’t do it for me but my opinion should have no bearing on your decision.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Tiffany Hill · Rating 5 out of 5]

**Soul Mates!**

"Past Lives" is a delightful standalone story about two soulmates, Heath and Maya, who always manage to find each other, no matter where or when they are. Their souls are beautifully intertwined, destined to fall in love and be together for all eternity. This charming short love story is packed with emotional highs and lows. I found myself tearing up at times as I experienced their joy and heartache. It's such a touching, sweet read that really tugs at the heartstrings!

“Somewhere, across time and sky, two souls smile - and start again.” - amazing quote

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Michelle · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a heartbreakingly beautiful love story between two souls who find each other every time they reincarnate. I love that we bounce back and forth in time and go through every emotional twist and turn along the way with the characters. This is a well written, page turning story with well developed characters and a love story that pulled at my heartstrings. I loved Maya and Heath's journey of love, and I hope we get more books like this in the future by this amazing author. I voluntarily reviewed a copy of this book.

[Brenda Orozco · Rating 5 out of 5]

Matilda writes some really good novellas!!! This was so sweet and sad at times. It’s crazy how they met throughout time. I really likedit!!! Kind of like serendipity and it does make you think sometimes if we have all really have had past lives😏.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Angi · Rating 5 out of 5]

I absolutely adored this book. As the main characters share the lives past, present and future. They find each other in every lifetime being soulmates. This book is an emotional roller coaster that will capture not only your attention but your heart.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Lisa Parker · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a standalone about Maya and Heath. They manage to find each other every time they reincarnate, their souls know the other even when they do not consciously do not. This is an emotional story, that is not always happy. The book starts at one time and bounces back.

I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[Linda · Rating 5 out of 5]

Ms. Martel had tears in my eyes multiple times over!

Wow! The strength of this story!

Love across the ages!
Loss.
Romantic.
Tragic.
Lovely.

So many words to describe this, yet not enough!

I loved it!

[Cindy Palmer · Rating 4 out of 5]

Heath and Maya are made for each other and destined to fall in love and forever. Matilda creates wonderful retreat where the love story has all the feels, there are parts that may cause tears, and parts where you're cheering. Great book!

[Kandiemarie · Rating 4 out of 5]

It was a well written reincarnation romance by Matilda Martel. It's an interesting read from start to finish. I don't think it's my type of story but all in all I was intrigued. Definitely recommend reading.

I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.

[K · Rating 3 out of 5]

RTC

[꧁ᙏᗣᙃⱿꙆᗣ꧂ · Rating 5 out of 5]

𝐀𝐌𝐇𝐀𝐑𝐂 𝐀𝐍𝐀𝐌𝐀💕

[Nate · Rating 5 out of 5]

Past lives was Heath and Maya’s story. I thought it was an emotional roller coaster. I received an early copy. And voluntarily leaving this review.