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Second Chances and Backward Glances: A Why Choose Romance
Three boys each held a part of my heart from the moment I met them when I was ten years old.
It's been a decade since I left to protect them from themselves and shattered my heart in the process.
Call it a coincidence or call it fate, but somehow the four of us ended up in this Thai resort at the same time. And these men are not going to let me run away again.
Well, at least two of them won’t.
Forgiveness isn't always easy, and second chances aren't always given. Still, in this tropical paradise, we might finally be able to look towards our future instead of being trapped in our past.
Second Chances and Backward Glances is a why choose romance novella. This means that the female main character does not have to choose between multiple love interests.
It's been a decade since I left to protect them from themselves and shattered my heart in the process.
Call it a coincidence or call it fate, but somehow the four of us ended up in this Thai resort at the same time. And these men are not going to let me run away again.
Well, at least two of them won’t.
Forgiveness isn't always easy, and second chances aren't always given. Still, in this tropical paradise, we might finally be able to look towards our future instead of being trapped in our past.
Second Chances and Backward Glances is a why choose romance novella. This means that the female main character does not have to choose between multiple love interests.
- GenresRomanceWhy Choose
172 pages, Kindle Edition
Published November 7, 2025
3 people are currently reading
33 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
October 26, 2025
Rating
4.5 💎
2 🌶️
Quick Summary
🪽This holiday romance hit all the right notes, Ronan, Levi, and Max brought the ideal balance to Savanna’s story. Bec Eden delivers her signature spice and emotional depth, a great compelling separation arc that kept me hooked from start to finish.
Reading Thoughts
📗Wow this book was everything I needed in a holiday romance.
📗The characters were perfect for the story. Ronan, Levi and Max were perfect balance and fit for Savanna
📗The way they got themselves into the separation and how it was woven through the book was great.
📗Bec Eden as per usual, knows how to write a brilliant thigh clenching spicy scene.
Words that linger
🍷If I have to listen to Ronan say that this is our second chance one more fucking time, I’m going to fling myself off this balcony.
🍷She’s gone. She chose to leave us. Well, fine. She’s dead to me now.
🍷“Because you broke my fucking heart,” Max yells,
🍷“Sweetheart, I think that’s exactly what we want, you between us. Preferably naked,” Ronan replies.
🍷Four bands. Four hearts. Four souls.
🍷Who knew that underneath the shy Levi who hides behind his computer is a dirty talker who takes charge in the bedroom?
Tropes
🍹Why Choose
🍹Vacation
🍹Second Chance
🍹Friends to lovers (done well)
4.5 💎
2 🌶️
Quick Summary
🪽This holiday romance hit all the right notes, Ronan, Levi, and Max brought the ideal balance to Savanna’s story. Bec Eden delivers her signature spice and emotional depth, a great compelling separation arc that kept me hooked from start to finish.
Reading Thoughts
📗Wow this book was everything I needed in a holiday romance.
📗The characters were perfect for the story. Ronan, Levi and Max were perfect balance and fit for Savanna
📗The way they got themselves into the separation and how it was woven through the book was great.
📗Bec Eden as per usual, knows how to write a brilliant thigh clenching spicy scene.
Words that linger
🍷If I have to listen to Ronan say that this is our second chance one more fucking time, I’m going to fling myself off this balcony.
🍷She’s gone. She chose to leave us. Well, fine. She’s dead to me now.
🍷“Because you broke my fucking heart,” Max yells,
🍷“Sweetheart, I think that’s exactly what we want, you between us. Preferably naked,” Ronan replies.
🍷Four bands. Four hearts. Four souls.
🍷Who knew that underneath the shy Levi who hides behind his computer is a dirty talker who takes charge in the bedroom?
Tropes
🍹Why Choose
🍹Vacation
🍹Second Chance
🍹Friends to lovers (done well)
October 18, 2025
ARC Read- Solid Four Star Read
Thank you Bec Eden for sharing this fun flirty love story with me! It was the perfect fun palette cleanser from the heavy fantasy series I’ve been obsessed with. This book is was a fast paced read with plenty of spice and emotion.
Fun spicy little why choose romance. Perfect for a weekend at the beach!
Thank you Bec Eden for sharing this fun flirty love story with me! It was the perfect fun palette cleanser from the heavy fantasy series I’ve been obsessed with. This book is was a fast paced read with plenty of spice and emotion.
Fun spicy little why choose romance. Perfect for a weekend at the beach!
October 14, 2025
ARC Review: Second Chances and Backward Glances by Bec Eden
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes: Second chance, childhood friends to lovers
Format: Romance novella
POV: Multiple (past and present)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
No ⚔️
I’m so thankful to Bec Eden for allowing me to read and review this novella. It’s a fast-paced, emotional story that follows childhood friends Savannah, Ronan, Levi, and Max as they grow into teenagers and when friendship begins to turn into something more, everything changes. A fight pushes Savannah to leave. Ten years later fate brings them back together at a resort in Thailand, where old feelings and unfinished business resurface.
I really enjoyed this story! Savannah’s inner monologue is genuinely funny and I laughed out loud more than once. Because it’s a short novella the pacing is quick and the heat level rises early, but it fits perfectly with their shared history. After reading some heavier books lately, this felt like the perfect palate cleanse ☺️ light, emotional, and satisfying.
Favourite quote:
“You were fighting. Constantly. It was all my fault. I couldn’t be the one who ruined the friendship that you three had. That wasn’t fair. And I couldn’t choose between you. I loved all of you.”
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Tropes: Second chance, childhood friends to lovers
Format: Romance novella
POV: Multiple (past and present)
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
No ⚔️
I’m so thankful to Bec Eden for allowing me to read and review this novella. It’s a fast-paced, emotional story that follows childhood friends Savannah, Ronan, Levi, and Max as they grow into teenagers and when friendship begins to turn into something more, everything changes. A fight pushes Savannah to leave. Ten years later fate brings them back together at a resort in Thailand, where old feelings and unfinished business resurface.
I really enjoyed this story! Savannah’s inner monologue is genuinely funny and I laughed out loud more than once. Because it’s a short novella the pacing is quick and the heat level rises early, but it fits perfectly with their shared history. After reading some heavier books lately, this felt like the perfect palate cleanse ☺️ light, emotional, and satisfying.
Favourite quote:
“You were fighting. Constantly. It was all my fault. I couldn’t be the one who ruined the friendship that you three had. That wasn’t fair. And I couldn’t choose between you. I loved all of you.”
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 6, 2025
I really enjoy this sweet yet spicy why choose romance.
I enjoy the back and forth from the time lines. You get some insight to when they were younger and their relationship back then to the present when they are grown men.
The way they idolize Savannah is sweet but also I felt it was a bit much for me at times. I absolutely love Max! I have come to realise I like the more grumpy, you have to work for me type of men and the slightly toxic ones. Yes, I'm the problem lol.
This was an easy read due to how it's written and for those who like spicy scenes, this one certainly delivered on that.
I enjoy the back and forth from the time lines. You get some insight to when they were younger and their relationship back then to the present when they are grown men.
The way they idolize Savannah is sweet but also I felt it was a bit much for me at times. I absolutely love Max! I have come to realise I like the more grumpy, you have to work for me type of men and the slightly toxic ones. Yes, I'm the problem lol.
This was an easy read due to how it's written and for those who like spicy scenes, this one certainly delivered on that.
October 15, 2025
ARC Read
🌟🌟🌟🌟
Firstly, thank you again to Bec for trusting me with this novella. This was my first book by her, and it certainly won't be my last. I binged the entire thing in one sitting.
Second chances and backwards glances was the perfect palette cleanse that I didn't know I needed after some really heavy books recently, fun, fast-paced, and the FMC is genuinely laugh out loud funny.
Bec's writing was so easy to read, she was able to go between past and present timelines seamlessly, as someone who normally doesn't enjoy flashbacks in a book, these scenes became some of my favourite.
Releasing on 7th November
🌶🌶🌶🌶
🌟🌟🌟🌟
Firstly, thank you again to Bec for trusting me with this novella. This was my first book by her, and it certainly won't be my last. I binged the entire thing in one sitting.
Second chances and backwards glances was the perfect palette cleanse that I didn't know I needed after some really heavy books recently, fun, fast-paced, and the FMC is genuinely laugh out loud funny.
Bec's writing was so easy to read, she was able to go between past and present timelines seamlessly, as someone who normally doesn't enjoy flashbacks in a book, these scenes became some of my favourite.
Releasing on 7th November
🌶🌶🌶🌶
October 19, 2025
Thanks to Bec for the opportunity to provide this ARC Review 😀
This novella falls into the “why choose” polyamorous genre, with the FMC at its centre. She’s unapologetically messy, emotionally honest, and tries to do the right thing by everyone. I appreciated her self-awareness and the way she navigates complex emotions, but the recurring alcohol-as-coping mechanism felt a little much at times, even though it made sense.
With three male love interests and a novella-length format, character depth was always going to be a challenge, but Levi stood out. Though being a quiet computer geek he is the most emotionally anchored and appears to be the subtle director of the group dynamic. The group’s shared history helps the story’s pace feel plausible, even with time jumps. Their reconciliation isn’t clean or overly romanticised, which I appreciate.
Some continuity issues popped up with spatial awareness. At times I couldn’t picture who was where or how we got from one place to the next. Having said that, the spicy scenes are crystal clear.
I’d recommend this to readers looking for a fast, satisfying read that doesn’t pretend everything is perfect but still lands softly in the end.
This novella falls into the “why choose” polyamorous genre, with the FMC at its centre. She’s unapologetically messy, emotionally honest, and tries to do the right thing by everyone. I appreciated her self-awareness and the way she navigates complex emotions, but the recurring alcohol-as-coping mechanism felt a little much at times, even though it made sense.
With three male love interests and a novella-length format, character depth was always going to be a challenge, but Levi stood out. Though being a quiet computer geek he is the most emotionally anchored and appears to be the subtle director of the group dynamic. The group’s shared history helps the story’s pace feel plausible, even with time jumps. Their reconciliation isn’t clean or overly romanticised, which I appreciate.
Some continuity issues popped up with spatial awareness. At times I couldn’t picture who was where or how we got from one place to the next. Having said that, the spicy scenes are crystal clear.
I’d recommend this to readers looking for a fast, satisfying read that doesn’t pretend everything is perfect but still lands softly in the end.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 11, 2025
2025:
"We used to be best friends, and now you can’t even look at me.”
“Because you broke my fucking heart."
I absolutely LOVED this book!
It was such a great why choose contemporary romance with my all time favourite trope - friends to lovers.
The MMCs were amazing - all with their own special personality traits that made them so loveable. For me, Max was just a smidge ahead of Ronan and Levi. I loved everything about him - the good and the bad.
Eden has paired each MMC with a song and all I can say is WOW - absolutely nailed it. There were most definitely tears as I listened to the song she has paired with Max...all the feels.
Our FMC, Savanna, is beautiful, self sacrificing and understandably does what she can to protect her heart. Watching our MMCs as they strip away her walls and show her what life could be like for all of them together...I could happily read this book over and over again.
"There it is. Hope. It flickers in her eyes like the smallest ember."
"We used to be best friends, and now you can’t even look at me.”
“Because you broke my fucking heart."
I absolutely LOVED this book!
It was such a great why choose contemporary romance with my all time favourite trope - friends to lovers.
The MMCs were amazing - all with their own special personality traits that made them so loveable. For me, Max was just a smidge ahead of Ronan and Levi. I loved everything about him - the good and the bad.
Eden has paired each MMC with a song and all I can say is WOW - absolutely nailed it. There were most definitely tears as I listened to the song she has paired with Max...all the feels.
Our FMC, Savanna, is beautiful, self sacrificing and understandably does what she can to protect her heart. Watching our MMCs as they strip away her walls and show her what life could be like for all of them together...I could happily read this book over and over again.
"There it is. Hope. It flickers in her eyes like the smallest ember."
October 29, 2025
This story had my heart racing from the start! The dynamics between the four friends, the secrets they've kept, and the second chances they're given had me hooked. The author's writing brought the Thai resort to life, and I felt like I was right there with them. Not only was the weather hot, but the spice level was HOT too. This why choose story is decadent and indulgent, like my favorite cocktail.
I fell in love with all the characters but I have a soft spot for Max. But I do love Ronan and Levi as well and of course I adore our main female character Savannah! I won’t give away any spoilers. A must read for fans of romance, drama, and second chances!
I fell in love with all the characters but I have a soft spot for Max. But I do love Ronan and Levi as well and of course I adore our main female character Savannah! I won’t give away any spoilers. A must read for fans of romance, drama, and second chances!
October 17, 2025
Wow! For a book that was a quick read she sure packed a lot of emotion into those pages! Loved to see the growth and acceptance of their emotions and the desperate need they all shared for each other!
October 18, 2025
Delightful novella, I was rather chuffed to be granted ARC access to read this book. It was an easy read second chance rekindled why choose romance. Because they all knew each as childhood friends who grew up together then adolescent immaturity put a spoke in their friendship wheel, fate has them reconnected on a tropical island and the story unfolds. I enjoyed this story very much and will be searching out more of Bec Eden’s work.
October 18, 2025
No notes. Funny, flirty and spicy with a HEA. love love loved it.
November 14, 2025
This was such a fun read! Fast paced, loved how the FMC and the 3 MMCs were childhood friends. Oh and the backstory to their friendship 😍 This was my first Why Choose book and it won't be the last!
October 16, 2025
ARC Read
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I found this novella to be the perfect book to get me out of my reading slump. I love second chance and why choose romances! the FMC was so relatable and the MMCs were the perfect amount of diverse personalities that worked so well together. the only thing I wasn't a huge fan of was how quickly they forgave her after she broke their hearts and left them in the dark for 10 years. but overall Bec had me captivated with her writing style and the storyline ❤️
⭐⭐⭐⭐
🌶️🌶️🌶️
I found this novella to be the perfect book to get me out of my reading slump. I love second chance and why choose romances! the FMC was so relatable and the MMCs were the perfect amount of diverse personalities that worked so well together. the only thing I wasn't a huge fan of was how quickly they forgave her after she broke their hearts and left them in the dark for 10 years. but overall Bec had me captivated with her writing style and the storyline ❤️
October 14, 2025
**ARC Review**
I was given an advanced copy to read and will say I absolutely loved everything about this book! it was a cozy with some spice read! I couldn't put it down and when I got to the last few pages, I didnt want it to be done!! Need to know how their story continues!! The characters were amazing in their own ways.
TROPES
- Friends to lovers
- second chances
- Vacation romance
I was given an advanced copy to read and will say I absolutely loved everything about this book! it was a cozy with some spice read! I couldn't put it down and when I got to the last few pages, I didnt want it to be done!! Need to know how their story continues!! The characters were amazing in their own ways.
TROPES
- Friends to lovers
- second chances
- Vacation romance
October 28, 2025
📖 Second Chances & Backward Glances
📝 Bec Eden
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
If you’re looking for a book that you can devour in less than a day, something emotionally charged and spicy with a side of plot then this little novella is the one for you!
With Savannah Lane’s job taking her to Thailand to write a piece on one of her favourite little getaways, the LAST thing she expects is to run into the three men she loved as a teenager. The three men she broke the hearts of when she ran away without a word and no contact for a decade. ✈️
Initially fearful and shocked by all the emotions this brings forward, two of her loves are quick to forgive, wanting only an explanation and a promise she’ll never disappear on them again… while her third love was definitely not so quick to forgive. ❤️🩹
“Because you broke my fucking heart.” 💔
With an explanation as to why she left the truth of the situation is revealed, what the boys initially thought was a selfish act was actually one brought about by her selflessness and not wanting to come between them. Afraid of ruining the boy's friendships she removed herself from the equation, breaking her heart just as much as theirs… their reunion ? Pantie soaking, deliciousness. 🥵 Finally all together again and working as one to make their unconventional relationship work is beautiful.
Her boys all perfectly add to their dynamic:
Ronan - easy going and very emotionally intelligent, this fun and playful sweetheart’s charm always eases any tension.🍫
Levi - level headed, calm, always thinking through every possibility and reasoning and he thrives on control… especially in the bedroom, exuding dominance and his dirty mouth my god. 💻
Max - broody, unforgiving and though he feels deeply he tries to hide from it, wrapping his heart in stone and shying away from facing his hurt but when he finally does give himself to her, he gives every piece of himself completely. 🐻
📝 Bec Eden
Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice: 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
If you’re looking for a book that you can devour in less than a day, something emotionally charged and spicy with a side of plot then this little novella is the one for you!
With Savannah Lane’s job taking her to Thailand to write a piece on one of her favourite little getaways, the LAST thing she expects is to run into the three men she loved as a teenager. The three men she broke the hearts of when she ran away without a word and no contact for a decade. ✈️
Initially fearful and shocked by all the emotions this brings forward, two of her loves are quick to forgive, wanting only an explanation and a promise she’ll never disappear on them again… while her third love was definitely not so quick to forgive. ❤️🩹
“Because you broke my fucking heart.” 💔
With an explanation as to why she left the truth of the situation is revealed, what the boys initially thought was a selfish act was actually one brought about by her selflessness and not wanting to come between them. Afraid of ruining the boy's friendships she removed herself from the equation, breaking her heart just as much as theirs… their reunion ? Pantie soaking, deliciousness. 🥵 Finally all together again and working as one to make their unconventional relationship work is beautiful.
Her boys all perfectly add to their dynamic:
Ronan - easy going and very emotionally intelligent, this fun and playful sweetheart’s charm always eases any tension.🍫
Levi - level headed, calm, always thinking through every possibility and reasoning and he thrives on control… especially in the bedroom, exuding dominance and his dirty mouth my god. 💻
Max - broody, unforgiving and though he feels deeply he tries to hide from it, wrapping his heart in stone and shying away from facing his hurt but when he finally does give himself to her, he gives every piece of himself completely. 🐻
October 20, 2025
ARC Review
Second Chances and Backwards Glances - a sexy, emotionally charged romance that delivers both the nostalgia of lost friendship and love plus the thrill of rediscovery.
This is the first book I've read from Bec Eden and I will be coming back for more!
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read this as ARC.
This book reunites a very relatable FMC, Savanna with the three MMCs who were once her everything: Levi, Max, and Ronan.
What I loved most is how Eden explores the fallout of Savanna’s departure a decade ago and how each of the characters deal with that using POV and flashbacks.
This isn’t just a steamy reunion (though yes—the steam is delicious); it’s a story about forgiveness and loving without fear, or judgment.
Even though the hurt runs deep, so does the love.
Each of these leading men brings something unforgettable to the dynamic:
• Levi the steady one—calm, thoughtful, and always in control… until the bedroom, where his dirty mouth and dominance will absolutely make you blush.
• Ronan - fun, playful, and emotionally open. His lighthearted charm balances the intensity.
• Max - the brooding one, initially hardened by his anger but when he finally decides to give his heart, he gives it completely.
If you're a fan of second chances, reverse harem/"why choose", friends to lovers stories, Second Chances and Backwards Glances needs to be on your TBR.
It’s swoony and spicy—in all the best ways.
My only wish is that is was longer....
Second Chances and Backwards Glances - a sexy, emotionally charged romance that delivers both the nostalgia of lost friendship and love plus the thrill of rediscovery.
This is the first book I've read from Bec Eden and I will be coming back for more!
Thank you for giving me the opportunity to read this as ARC.
This book reunites a very relatable FMC, Savanna with the three MMCs who were once her everything: Levi, Max, and Ronan.
What I loved most is how Eden explores the fallout of Savanna’s departure a decade ago and how each of the characters deal with that using POV and flashbacks.
This isn’t just a steamy reunion (though yes—the steam is delicious); it’s a story about forgiveness and loving without fear, or judgment.
Even though the hurt runs deep, so does the love.
Each of these leading men brings something unforgettable to the dynamic:
• Levi the steady one—calm, thoughtful, and always in control… until the bedroom, where his dirty mouth and dominance will absolutely make you blush.
• Ronan - fun, playful, and emotionally open. His lighthearted charm balances the intensity.
• Max - the brooding one, initially hardened by his anger but when he finally decides to give his heart, he gives it completely.
If you're a fan of second chances, reverse harem/"why choose", friends to lovers stories, Second Chances and Backwards Glances needs to be on your TBR.
It’s swoony and spicy—in all the best ways.
My only wish is that is was longer....
November 4, 2025
Savanna was best friends with Levi, Ronan and Max during high school and leaves to protect their friendship with each other following some complicated events. Fast forward 10 years and Savanna is a travel writer staying at a Thailand resort for work, when who should she run into but her old friends? Old hurts are healed and the friends have a second chance to rekindle their relationships.
Bec Eden has created a cosy, fun read. Each of the characters have their distinct personalities, and I couldn't help but smile whenever Ronan was on the page. The banter was cute and I could see the reason these four characters were friends growing up. The spice was spicy, but at times could feel rushed and left me wanting more.
The only thing I found difficult was the pacing - so much happens within just 2 or 3 days that it is difficult to see how so much hurt could be so quickly forgiven and the characters moving into "I love you" territory without any further thought to the past. The backstory of the development of their friendship as kids and the events that lead to Savanna leaving were detailed and well written, though we don't get to know the character's stories beyond this. I would have loved to have known more about each of the characters, their home lives and how they came to be the people they were.
In all, Second Chances and Backward Glances was a cute, fun afternoon read that you can get through within a couple of hours. I have read this twice now and am keen to read more of Bec Eden's work.
Bec Eden has created a cosy, fun read. Each of the characters have their distinct personalities, and I couldn't help but smile whenever Ronan was on the page. The banter was cute and I could see the reason these four characters were friends growing up. The spice was spicy, but at times could feel rushed and left me wanting more.
The only thing I found difficult was the pacing - so much happens within just 2 or 3 days that it is difficult to see how so much hurt could be so quickly forgiven and the characters moving into "I love you" territory without any further thought to the past. The backstory of the development of their friendship as kids and the events that lead to Savanna leaving were detailed and well written, though we don't get to know the character's stories beyond this. I would have loved to have known more about each of the characters, their home lives and how they came to be the people they were.
In all, Second Chances and Backward Glances was a cute, fun afternoon read that you can get through within a couple of hours. I have read this twice now and am keen to read more of Bec Eden's work.
October 4, 2025
I was given the absolute pleasure of Beta reading this novella and I have fallen in love with Bec Eden's work even more with every genre she covers!
This second-chance why-choose romance was a super cozy and spicy read that I finished in just a matter of hours. I tried to take my time living in the beautiful atmosphere created, but I couldn't put this down to save my life.
If I had to explain this book in a single sentence, it is The Summer I Turned Pretty but more grown up with less silly drama.
This story is written from multiple perspectives and I feel that it was really well balanced and paced. I certainly have my favourite character (Levi my king!) but none of the characters felt pushed to the side or less composed than the others.
I really enjoyed Sav's smart ass remarks, but also how awkward and shy she could be, she felt very relatable throughout. Each of the guys had their own very clear personalities and hobbies, differentiating them as their own people and each providing Sav with something she needs that the others cannot.
I think the dark romance readers will love Levi or Max, the romance readers will adore Ronan. There's truly something in here for everyone!
This is a novella, and that is just as long as this story needed to be. This is a vacation romance so I feel like if it was any longer it would take away from the pacing and the stakes. Will they reconcile before the week ends?
This second-chance why-choose romance was a super cozy and spicy read that I finished in just a matter of hours. I tried to take my time living in the beautiful atmosphere created, but I couldn't put this down to save my life.
If I had to explain this book in a single sentence, it is The Summer I Turned Pretty but more grown up with less silly drama.
This story is written from multiple perspectives and I feel that it was really well balanced and paced. I certainly have my favourite character (Levi my king!) but none of the characters felt pushed to the side or less composed than the others.
I really enjoyed Sav's smart ass remarks, but also how awkward and shy she could be, she felt very relatable throughout. Each of the guys had their own very clear personalities and hobbies, differentiating them as their own people and each providing Sav with something she needs that the others cannot.
I think the dark romance readers will love Levi or Max, the romance readers will adore Ronan. There's truly something in here for everyone!
This is a novella, and that is just as long as this story needed to be. This is a vacation romance so I feel like if it was any longer it would take away from the pacing and the stakes. Will they reconcile before the week ends?
October 24, 2025
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Second Chances & Backwards Glances is an adorable little book that follows Savannah Lane’s whirlwind getaway in Thailand after she runs into the three men she left behind in her home town in hopes of saving their friendship.
Bec has managed to write a lovely store which in just 182 pages has you falling in love with these characters! Each MMC has their own unique personality and she’s even picked out songs for each of them as their love letter to Savannah!
Throughout the book we get flashbacks of their budding friendship into romance that gives us an inside look to how they grew to love each other and I love the little details!
Another thing I loved was the fact that while yes, Sat broke her own heart. It was the MMC’s who had their hearts broken, they displayed and voiced their emotions! Technically the story is based of a semi ‘mis communication’ when the four characters meet up again, there isn’t much holding back. They all encourage each other to communicate their needs and thoughts and I thought that was really lovely!
“We used to be best friends, and now you can’t even look at me” - Savannah
“Because you broke my fucking heart” - Max
This book is a wonderful little quick read that has all the good feels at the end and works as an amazing palate cleanser! I can defiantly see myself rereading it when I feel like I’ll be in a slump!
Thank you Bec for giving me the chance to ARC review this!
🌶️🌶️🌶️
Second Chances & Backwards Glances is an adorable little book that follows Savannah Lane’s whirlwind getaway in Thailand after she runs into the three men she left behind in her home town in hopes of saving their friendship.
Bec has managed to write a lovely store which in just 182 pages has you falling in love with these characters! Each MMC has their own unique personality and she’s even picked out songs for each of them as their love letter to Savannah!
Throughout the book we get flashbacks of their budding friendship into romance that gives us an inside look to how they grew to love each other and I love the little details!
Another thing I loved was the fact that while yes, Sat broke her own heart. It was the MMC’s who had their hearts broken, they displayed and voiced their emotions! Technically the story is based of a semi ‘mis communication’ when the four characters meet up again, there isn’t much holding back. They all encourage each other to communicate their needs and thoughts and I thought that was really lovely!
“We used to be best friends, and now you can’t even look at me” - Savannah
“Because you broke my fucking heart” - Max
This book is a wonderful little quick read that has all the good feels at the end and works as an amazing palate cleanser! I can defiantly see myself rereading it when I feel like I’ll be in a slump!
Thank you Bec for giving me the chance to ARC review this!
October 24, 2025
Yet another Aussie author who’s writing I have fallen in love with. Where have all these Aussie authors been?!
‘𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘬𝘪𝘴𝘴, 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘺𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘮𝘦, 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘱𝘴 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭 𝘣𝘢𝘳𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘭𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘯.’
I absolutely LOVED this book! It's such a great friends to lovers romance, and it features on of my favorite trope; what's not to love?
The main male characters, Max, Ronan, and Levi, each have their own unique personalities that make them super loveable. Max definitely stole my heart, but all three brought something special to the story. Eden pairs each guy with a song, and wow, she nailed it!
The story follows Savanna, a relatable and beautiful FMC, as she reconnects with her old friends after a decade apart. Eden does an amazing job exploring the fallout from Savanna's departure, using flashbacks and different points of view. It's not just a steamy reunion (though it’s definitely that!); it's a journey about forgiveness and loving without fear.
Each guy adds a fun dynamic:
Levi is steady and calm, but his dirty talk will make you blush;
Ronan is playful and open hearted;
and Max, the brooding one, surprises everyone when he finally lets down his guard.
If you love second chances and a why choose dynamic, you need this book on your TBR! It’s swoony and spicy in all the best ways. My only wish? For it to be longer or to get a sequel about what happens next!
Overall, this is a must read, and I can’t wait to see what else Bec Eden has in store for us!
‘𝘞𝘪𝘵𝘩 𝘩𝘦𝘳 𝘬𝘪𝘴𝘴, 𝘴𝘩𝘦 𝘥𝘦𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘰𝘺𝘴 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘳𝘦𝘮𝘢𝘬𝘦𝘴 𝘮𝘦, 𝘴𝘵𝘳𝘪𝘱𝘴 𝘮𝘺 𝘴𝘰𝘶𝘭 𝘣𝘢𝘳𝘦, 𝘢𝘯𝘥 𝘧𝘭𝘢𝘺𝘴 𝘮𝘦 𝘸𝘪𝘥𝘦 𝘰𝘱𝘦𝘯.’
I absolutely LOVED this book! It's such a great friends to lovers romance, and it features on of my favorite trope; what's not to love?
The main male characters, Max, Ronan, and Levi, each have their own unique personalities that make them super loveable. Max definitely stole my heart, but all three brought something special to the story. Eden pairs each guy with a song, and wow, she nailed it!
The story follows Savanna, a relatable and beautiful FMC, as she reconnects with her old friends after a decade apart. Eden does an amazing job exploring the fallout from Savanna's departure, using flashbacks and different points of view. It's not just a steamy reunion (though it’s definitely that!); it's a journey about forgiveness and loving without fear.
Each guy adds a fun dynamic:
Levi is steady and calm, but his dirty talk will make you blush;
Ronan is playful and open hearted;
and Max, the brooding one, surprises everyone when he finally lets down his guard.
If you love second chances and a why choose dynamic, you need this book on your TBR! It’s swoony and spicy in all the best ways. My only wish? For it to be longer or to get a sequel about what happens next!
Overall, this is a must read, and I can’t wait to see what else Bec Eden has in store for us!
October 29, 2025
Second Chances and Backward Glances pulled me in from the first chapter and didn’t let go. Savanna’s story resonated deeply with me, that sense of caring so much for others that you sacrifice your own happiness, and later needing to face the weight of old choices. Her chance reunion with the friends she once left behind felt raw, emotional, and incredibly human.
I especially connected with Max, his openness, emotional honesty, and steady presence brought such warmth to the story. He wears his heart on his sleeve, and that vulnerability made him impossible not to love. The chemistry between all four characters is beautifully balanced, full of respect and genuine care.
The intimate moments are passionate yet tender, always centred around consent, mutual trust, and emotional safety, something I deeply appreciate in romance writing. Beyond the spice, it’s really a story about growth, reconnection, and allowing yourself to be loved fully, without fear or shame.
This book left me smiling, a little teary, and completely satisfied. It’s a cosy, sun-kissed, and emotionally layered why-choose story with a perfectly delivered HEA.
This book was received as an ARC, however this review reflects my honest thoughts and feelings shared voluntarily.
I especially connected with Max, his openness, emotional honesty, and steady presence brought such warmth to the story. He wears his heart on his sleeve, and that vulnerability made him impossible not to love. The chemistry between all four characters is beautifully balanced, full of respect and genuine care.
The intimate moments are passionate yet tender, always centred around consent, mutual trust, and emotional safety, something I deeply appreciate in romance writing. Beyond the spice, it’s really a story about growth, reconnection, and allowing yourself to be loved fully, without fear or shame.
This book left me smiling, a little teary, and completely satisfied. It’s a cosy, sun-kissed, and emotionally layered why-choose story with a perfectly delivered HEA.
This book was received as an ARC, however this review reflects my honest thoughts and feelings shared voluntarily.
October 29, 2025
Second Chances and Backward Glances by Bec Eden is one of those feel-good romance reads that leaves you smiling long after you’ve turned the last page. It’s a light, happy story - perfect for when you need a little escapism without anything too heavy.
The characters are genuinely likeable and the author takes the time give them background details and bring them to life in a way that feels satisfying. What really stood out to me was how Bec Eden handled intimacy and particularly consent. Unlike many other books in the genre, consent is actually present in the spicy scenes and it’s sexy, confident and free of awkwardness. It’s refreshing to see relationships portrayed as both passionate and healthy, without all the usual drama or toxicity that often comes with the genre.
The polyamory aspect was another highlight. It added depth and intrigue to the story, showing multiple relationships that were supportive, communicative and jealousy-free. It’s rare to see that kind of dynamic written in such a positive, balanced way.
Overall, this was a delightful, uplifting read. If you’re in the mood for a romance that’s sweet, smart and just a little bit different - in all the best ways - Second Chances and Backward Glances is definitely worth a read.
The characters are genuinely likeable and the author takes the time give them background details and bring them to life in a way that feels satisfying. What really stood out to me was how Bec Eden handled intimacy and particularly consent. Unlike many other books in the genre, consent is actually present in the spicy scenes and it’s sexy, confident and free of awkwardness. It’s refreshing to see relationships portrayed as both passionate and healthy, without all the usual drama or toxicity that often comes with the genre.
The polyamory aspect was another highlight. It added depth and intrigue to the story, showing multiple relationships that were supportive, communicative and jealousy-free. It’s rare to see that kind of dynamic written in such a positive, balanced way.
Overall, this was a delightful, uplifting read. If you’re in the mood for a romance that’s sweet, smart and just a little bit different - in all the best ways - Second Chances and Backward Glances is definitely worth a read.
October 17, 2025
I am utterly and completely in awe of this book! It’s such an incredible blend of contemporary romance, a heart-stirring journey that gripped my soul from start to finish – perfectly crafted around one of my all-time favourite trope: friends to lovers. My heart races just thinking about it!
The MMCs are nothing short of extraordinary – each one bursting with their own unique, lovable personality that made my heart swell. Max, Ronan, and Levi – they’re all amazing, but I have to admit, Levi held a special place in my heart, just a tiniest bit more than the others. I adored everything about him who doesn't love dirty talk.
And our FMC, Savanna – she’s breathtaking. So beautiful, so brave, so fiercely self-sacrificing. Protecting her heart, doing everything she can to shield herself – I felt every ounce of her guarded vulnerability. Watching as our MMCs gently, so patiently, peel back her walls and show her what true love and connection could be like… it was utterly captivating. It made my heart ache and soar all at once.
The MMCs are nothing short of extraordinary – each one bursting with their own unique, lovable personality that made my heart swell. Max, Ronan, and Levi – they’re all amazing, but I have to admit, Levi held a special place in my heart, just a tiniest bit more than the others. I adored everything about him who doesn't love dirty talk.
And our FMC, Savanna – she’s breathtaking. So beautiful, so brave, so fiercely self-sacrificing. Protecting her heart, doing everything she can to shield herself – I felt every ounce of her guarded vulnerability. Watching as our MMCs gently, so patiently, peel back her walls and show her what true love and connection could be like… it was utterly captivating. It made my heart ache and soar all at once.
October 28, 2025
ARC REVIEW
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ /5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️/5
Okay… for a girl who LIVES for dark romance, this book was such an amazing surprise. It was why choose indeed! 👀 I swear, this story had me kicking my feet, yelling, screaming, smiling, and going *tehehehe*🤭😏😁 more times than I can count.
At one point, I literally said out loud, “Why not both of them?” 😏🤭 and then realized it wasn’t just *BOTH*… it was *THREE*! And I loved every second of it.
Savanna and her guys had that perfect mix of emotional connection, tension, and heat (that bedroom scene with all three of them?? yeah, I had to take a breather 🫠). The story gave me everything...second chances, nostalgia, and just the right amount of spice to keep things delicious without taking over the plot.
If you love a bit of angst, a touch of sweetness, and a whole lot of heart, this one’s going to make you feel *everything*. When it ended, I just sat there like… *that’s it?* I wanted more.
Bec Eden really nailed the balance of steamy and emotional here...DEFINITELY worth the read. 💋
Overall Rating: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️ /5
Spice: 🌶️🌶️/5
Okay… for a girl who LIVES for dark romance, this book was such an amazing surprise. It was why choose indeed! 👀 I swear, this story had me kicking my feet, yelling, screaming, smiling, and going *tehehehe*🤭😏😁 more times than I can count.
At one point, I literally said out loud, “Why not both of them?” 😏🤭 and then realized it wasn’t just *BOTH*… it was *THREE*! And I loved every second of it.
Savanna and her guys had that perfect mix of emotional connection, tension, and heat (that bedroom scene with all three of them?? yeah, I had to take a breather 🫠). The story gave me everything...second chances, nostalgia, and just the right amount of spice to keep things delicious without taking over the plot.
If you love a bit of angst, a touch of sweetness, and a whole lot of heart, this one’s going to make you feel *everything*. When it ended, I just sat there like… *that’s it?* I wanted more.
Bec Eden really nailed the balance of steamy and emotional here...DEFINITELY worth the read. 💋
October 30, 2025
I have not cried that much reading a book in so long! there were happy tears, sad tears (and angry tears... im looking at you, Max 😂 )
I also spent a lot of time giggling at the Sass and when she would turn into a giddy mess 🤣 cause, of course, who wouldn't!
wowza! this is a why choose romance that goes between the past and present, and between each characters POV, but it's written so well that's it is easy to follow.
You feel each and every emotion that the characters are going through. You can truly tell that the author has poured themselves into this Novella. it is heavy on the spice 🌶🌶🌶 but it makes up the plot of the book.
Second chances and backward glances is full of heartbreak, friendship, and love. rediscovering each other and mending broken hearts. Everything becomes so clear as you learn each characters history and view on what happens and how they got to where they are now, and seeing how the characters develop throughout the story. amazing read! cannot wait to read more from this author.
I also spent a lot of time giggling at the Sass and when she would turn into a giddy mess 🤣 cause, of course, who wouldn't!
wowza! this is a why choose romance that goes between the past and present, and between each characters POV, but it's written so well that's it is easy to follow.
You feel each and every emotion that the characters are going through. You can truly tell that the author has poured themselves into this Novella. it is heavy on the spice 🌶🌶🌶 but it makes up the plot of the book.
Second chances and backward glances is full of heartbreak, friendship, and love. rediscovering each other and mending broken hearts. Everything becomes so clear as you learn each characters history and view on what happens and how they got to where they are now, and seeing how the characters develop throughout the story. amazing read! cannot wait to read more from this author.
November 4, 2025
Firstly, thank you so much to Bec Eden and her team for this gorgeous ARC.
It's always a privilege to be an early reader and trusted with an honest review, so thank you!
📚 Second chances and backward glances
✍️ Bec Eden
🌴 Holiday romance
🩵 Childhood best friends
💔 2nd chance
🤷♀️ Why choose
⭐️ my rating. 4 stars.
This story was fun, flirty, steamy and sweet.
I loved the flash backs into their childhood growing up. It made their connection feel believable and gave a great foundation for the relationship reforming in the present.
Considering this is a novella there's a lot of raw emotions and even character growth. There isn't one character that I loved more then the other, bit admittedly I had a soft spot for Max. He was understandably guarded and honest about his heartbreak. And that takes strength when you're faced with the one that did the breaking.
For warning, this book will have you wanting to book flights to tropical Thailand immediately 🥵🌴
This is a great quick read, perfectly paced novella.
It's always a privilege to be an early reader and trusted with an honest review, so thank you!
📚 Second chances and backward glances
✍️ Bec Eden
🌴 Holiday romance
🩵 Childhood best friends
💔 2nd chance
🤷♀️ Why choose
⭐️ my rating. 4 stars.
This story was fun, flirty, steamy and sweet.
I loved the flash backs into their childhood growing up. It made their connection feel believable and gave a great foundation for the relationship reforming in the present.
Considering this is a novella there's a lot of raw emotions and even character growth. There isn't one character that I loved more then the other, bit admittedly I had a soft spot for Max. He was understandably guarded and honest about his heartbreak. And that takes strength when you're faced with the one that did the breaking.
For warning, this book will have you wanting to book flights to tropical Thailand immediately 🥵🌴
This is a great quick read, perfectly paced novella.
October 29, 2025
ARC REVIEW
If you’ve ever accidentally let three boys each hold a part of your heart since age ten then run away, only to find yourself back in the same tropical resort, heart in full 'oops I did it again' mode - then this novella has your name on it!
I dove into this why-choose romance (where thankfully our heroine doesn't have to pick between guys like she's auditioning for The Bachelor: Resort Edition) and found myself smiling, sighing, and occasionally wondering if I should book a plane to somewhere exotic and hope for my own version. The beach scenes + heart-to-hearts = ✅✅. The 'you shattered my heart/I’m back to fix it' trope is very on brand for a Friday night reading sesh with popcorn.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
(It’s fun, not too serious, and full of those little romantic nods that make you go “awww")
#thenaughtyook #tnarcteam #beceden #secondchancesandbackwardglances #whychooseromance
If you’ve ever accidentally let three boys each hold a part of your heart since age ten then run away, only to find yourself back in the same tropical resort, heart in full 'oops I did it again' mode - then this novella has your name on it!
I dove into this why-choose romance (where thankfully our heroine doesn't have to pick between guys like she's auditioning for The Bachelor: Resort Edition) and found myself smiling, sighing, and occasionally wondering if I should book a plane to somewhere exotic and hope for my own version. The beach scenes + heart-to-hearts = ✅✅. The 'you shattered my heart/I’m back to fix it' trope is very on brand for a Friday night reading sesh with popcorn.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
(It’s fun, not too serious, and full of those little romantic nods that make you go “awww")
#thenaughtyook #tnarcteam #beceden #secondchancesandbackwardglances #whychooseromance
October 14, 2025
Arc read
Book: second chances and backward glances
Author: Bec Eden
Release: 7 November
Themes:
- Friends to lovers
- Found family
- Why choose
- Vacation
- Flashbacks
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I adored this book! Savanna is a travel journalist, she is invited to Thailand and she just happens to run into her three former best friends.
I found savanna so relatable! I loved that she was excited and panicking, which is something that I would 100% be like!
I loved all three men! They all had different personalities but melded so perfectly.
I’m nosy so having the pov of all the characters and the flashbacks made this book so enjoyable for me. I want to know about everything!!
This was definitely a 10/10 with short chapters and a quick read that I honestly couldn’t put down!!
Book: second chances and backward glances
Author: Bec Eden
Release: 7 November
Themes:
- Friends to lovers
- Found family
- Why choose
- Vacation
- Flashbacks
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I adored this book! Savanna is a travel journalist, she is invited to Thailand and she just happens to run into her three former best friends.
I found savanna so relatable! I loved that she was excited and panicking, which is something that I would 100% be like!
I loved all three men! They all had different personalities but melded so perfectly.
I’m nosy so having the pov of all the characters and the flashbacks made this book so enjoyable for me. I want to know about everything!!
This was definitely a 10/10 with short chapters and a quick read that I honestly couldn’t put down!!
October 18, 2025
Disclaimer: this review contains spoilers
5 ⭐️
3 🌶️
Favourite Quotes
1. “I love a consent king as much as the next person, but I them both desperately” - Savanna’s inner dialogue
2. “Same thing I wanted when we were teenagers. You. It’s always been you” - Max
Bec Eden has done it again, after having the opportunity to ARC read Limerence and be on Bec Eden’s Street team, I fell in love with her spicy standalone novellas.
This short, sweet and spicy novella is a perfect palette cleanser for any adult reader. It’s my idea of a cozy book, easy plot to follow, heaps of smut, short and sweet. 😍
SC&BG follows multiple POVs from past and present to give us a why choose second chance romance. There’s a MMC for everyone with our loveable golden retriever MMC, Levi (with a hidden in bedroom persona), our athletic muscle MMC, Ronan and our Grumpy MMC, Max (whose a secret softie).
So many parts of this book had me giggling to myself. A must add to your library.
This ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.
5 ⭐️
3 🌶️
Favourite Quotes
1. “I love a consent king as much as the next person, but I them both desperately” - Savanna’s inner dialogue
2. “Same thing I wanted when we were teenagers. You. It’s always been you” - Max
Bec Eden has done it again, after having the opportunity to ARC read Limerence and be on Bec Eden’s Street team, I fell in love with her spicy standalone novellas.
This short, sweet and spicy novella is a perfect palette cleanser for any adult reader. It’s my idea of a cozy book, easy plot to follow, heaps of smut, short and sweet. 😍
SC&BG follows multiple POVs from past and present to give us a why choose second chance romance. There’s a MMC for everyone with our loveable golden retriever MMC, Levi (with a hidden in bedroom persona), our athletic muscle MMC, Ronan and our Grumpy MMC, Max (whose a secret softie).
So many parts of this book had me giggling to myself. A must add to your library.
This ARC was provided in exchange for an honest review.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
October 16, 2025
A light, sweet, romantic why choose book. Short and sweet, perfect for a quick read when you looking for something to pull at the heart strings. Plus the spice, oh goodness that was hot.
The characters were loveable. (I'll take my own Levi please, dirty talk included.) As well, the FMC was enjoyable to read about. She had spark! The whole ordeal was built on a miscommunication / misread but that felt real. For an 18 year old it felt like a real decision that would have been made. Which is something I enjoyed.
Personally, my only thing, is I wish we got to see more of them when they were together in the past. More of those building blocks to the relationships and connections. But with the short chapters and flow of the story it made sense why we didn't. I just wanted more!
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