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One Last Thing Before You Go
Carlotta “Lottie” Veracruz’s idea of a happily ever after shatters when her diagnosis of PCOS and endometriosis leaves her unable to have kids and divorced. Two years later, she’s back in her hometown, Ceres Cove, living in her brother’s loft and working at the town’s only bookstore, all while plotting how she can get back to her high profile life in New York. When the bookstore owner passes away, one too many martini’s leaves grief-stricken Lottie to have a one-night stand with a man seven years her junior.After a childhood spent bouncing around cities with his single mom, freelance photographer Knox Riddick has no intention of putting down roots. But when he’s summoned to the small town Ceres Cove, Maine after his estranged father’s death, the last thing Knox expects is to inherit a percentage of a bookstore or for the other part of it to be left to the beautiful woman he last saw sneaking out of his hotel room days before.
If Lottie and Knox want to have any chance of getting back to their lives, they must work together to fix up the bookstore and sell it. This means keeping their hands off one another, no matter how strong the temptation is. But the more time they spend together, the harder it is for Lottie to ignore her feelings, including her lingering fear that Knox will reject her once he learns she can’t have kids. And when they give into their desire for one another, they might learn firsthand why mixing business with pleasure always is a recipe for disaster!
If Lottie and Knox want to have any chance of getting back to their lives, they must work together to fix up the bookstore and sell it. This means keeping their hands off one another, no matter how strong the temptation is. But the more time they spend together, the harder it is for Lottie to ignore her feelings, including her lingering fear that Knox will reject her once he learns she can’t have kids. And when they give into their desire for one another, they might learn firsthand why mixing business with pleasure always is a recipe for disaster!
- GenresRomanceBooks About Books
450 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 10, 2026
21 people are currently reading
325 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 84 reviews
March 6, 2026
I was drawn in by the gorgeous cover, but the story itself is what stayed with me. From the very beginning, this romance felt different—more thoughtful, more grounded, and less interested in pretending pain can be neatly tied up with a bow. Instead, it explores loss, uncertainty, and starting over in a way that feels honest and real.
I’ll be honest… I struggled with Lottie. She’s undeniably strong. She’s been through loss, heartbreak, and the complete unraveling of the future she thought she’d have, but I had a hard time staying emotionally connected to her at times. The way she chose to act and respond, especially when it came to communication… was SO frustrating. Watching how easily she hurt Knox without being honest about what she was feeling made it difficult for me as a reader. 😐🤚🏼 It reached a point where I found myself genuinely upset because she just wouldn’t say what needed to be said because she thought it was “better.”
Knox, on the other hand, was such a bright spot for me. He was kind, thoughtful, loyal, and incredibly open—qualities I really loved in a love interest. 🤭 I think that contrast is what made their dynamic hard for me at times, because it often felt like he was giving so much emotionally while Lottie kept him at arm’s length. Not because she wasn’t enough, but because the way she treated him didn’t always feel fair (and okay I just wanted better for him if I’m being honest🙄🙄).
I loved the setup of Lottie and Knox being forced to work together as business partners, slowly getting to know each other outside of attraction. That shared space allowed their connection to grow in a way that felt more intentional, building a foundation before becoming something more. The tension kept me hooked, and there was a moment where I genuinely wasn’t sure this story was going to give them a happy ending which was stressing me OUT 😭
That said, one of my favorite aspects of the story was Lottie’s perspective shift when it came to her life and herself. For so long, she viewed everything through a distorted lens—her body, her future, and even her hometown all felt like proof of what she believed she lacked. Nothing felt like enough, and it was clear how deeply that belief shaped the way she moved through the world. Watching her slowly begin to untangle that mindset and recognize the value in what she had—rather than measuring herself against what she’d lost—was meaningful and emotional. As that shift happened, she grew lighter and more open, finally seeing the love, support, and stability that had been there for her all along. 🙂↕️💗
The ending ultimately left me grateful. (though I did feel a bit confused by the timeline toward the end when several months passed without much clarification) Still, this book was hard to put down, emotionally layered, and refreshingly unique. For my first read by this author, I was impressed. 👏🏼 ✨ It’s not perfect, but it’s heartfelt, thoughtful, and meaningful, and I really loved the awareness it brought to endometriosis and PCOS while still delivering a romance that felt real and earned. 🩷🩷🩷
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-favorite quotes-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
“I never would've imagined I'd be able to be more attracted to Lottie than I already was, but seeing her in her element like this? In full business mode? I've never wanted anyone more.”
“But I could tell from the second I saw her that Lottie was extraordinary. Is still extraordinary. It just feels like she's the only one who forgot.”
“Lottie Veracruz might not be my muse per se, but she's become the center of my universe.”
“She is my fantasy come to life.”
“If all I get tonight is a kiss on the cheek and a smile from you, I’d still feel like the luckiest guy in this town."
"Of course. Of course I came back. I was always gonna come back, Pretty Girl."
“All there's ever been since the second I laid eyes on you is you.”
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
things to know about the book ↓
📷 reverse age gap (she’s 34 | he’s 27)
📚 workplace romance (mild)
📷 grief healing
📚 second chance (mild)
📷 miscommunication
📚 infertility
📷 PCOS rep
📚 dual POV
A huge thank you to Luna Literary, and Caroline Frank for allowing me to read this arc. These are all my honest opinions in this review.
spice rating:【 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 】
swearing: yes
・❥・⁀➷ pre-read
⸻⸻⸻
honestly the cover of this book immediately drew me in. i’m so excited!!🩷🩷🩷
I’ll be honest… I struggled with Lottie. She’s undeniably strong. She’s been through loss, heartbreak, and the complete unraveling of the future she thought she’d have, but I had a hard time staying emotionally connected to her at times. The way she chose to act and respond, especially when it came to communication… was SO frustrating. Watching how easily she hurt Knox without being honest about what she was feeling made it difficult for me as a reader. 😐🤚🏼 It reached a point where I found myself genuinely upset because she just wouldn’t say what needed to be said because she thought it was “better.”
Knox, on the other hand, was such a bright spot for me. He was kind, thoughtful, loyal, and incredibly open—qualities I really loved in a love interest. 🤭 I think that contrast is what made their dynamic hard for me at times, because it often felt like he was giving so much emotionally while Lottie kept him at arm’s length. Not because she wasn’t enough, but because the way she treated him didn’t always feel fair (and okay I just wanted better for him if I’m being honest🙄🙄).
I loved the setup of Lottie and Knox being forced to work together as business partners, slowly getting to know each other outside of attraction. That shared space allowed their connection to grow in a way that felt more intentional, building a foundation before becoming something more. The tension kept me hooked, and there was a moment where I genuinely wasn’t sure this story was going to give them a happy ending which was stressing me OUT 😭
That said, one of my favorite aspects of the story was Lottie’s perspective shift when it came to her life and herself. For so long, she viewed everything through a distorted lens—her body, her future, and even her hometown all felt like proof of what she believed she lacked. Nothing felt like enough, and it was clear how deeply that belief shaped the way she moved through the world. Watching her slowly begin to untangle that mindset and recognize the value in what she had—rather than measuring herself against what she’d lost—was meaningful and emotional. As that shift happened, she grew lighter and more open, finally seeing the love, support, and stability that had been there for her all along. 🙂↕️💗
The ending ultimately left me grateful. (though I did feel a bit confused by the timeline toward the end when several months passed without much clarification) Still, this book was hard to put down, emotionally layered, and refreshingly unique. For my first read by this author, I was impressed. 👏🏼 ✨ It’s not perfect, but it’s heartfelt, thoughtful, and meaningful, and I really loved the awareness it brought to endometriosis and PCOS while still delivering a romance that felt real and earned. 🩷🩷🩷
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-favorite quotes-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
“I never would've imagined I'd be able to be more attracted to Lottie than I already was, but seeing her in her element like this? In full business mode? I've never wanted anyone more.”
“But I could tell from the second I saw her that Lottie was extraordinary. Is still extraordinary. It just feels like she's the only one who forgot.”
“Lottie Veracruz might not be my muse per se, but she's become the center of my universe.”
“She is my fantasy come to life.”
“If all I get tonight is a kiss on the cheek and a smile from you, I’d still feel like the luckiest guy in this town."
"Of course. Of course I came back. I was always gonna come back, Pretty Girl."
“All there's ever been since the second I laid eyes on you is you.”
-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-♡-
things to know about the book ↓
📷 reverse age gap (she’s 34 | he’s 27)
📚 workplace romance (mild)
📷 grief healing
📚 second chance (mild)
📷 miscommunication
📚 infertility
📷 PCOS rep
📚 dual POV
A huge thank you to Luna Literary, and Caroline Frank for allowing me to read this arc. These are all my honest opinions in this review.
spice rating:【 🌶️🌶️🌶️ 】
swearing: yes
・❥・⁀➷ pre-read
⸻⸻⸻
honestly the cover of this book immediately drew me in. i’m so excited!!🩷🩷🩷
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for giving me this ARC in exchange for an honest review.
Actual rating 3.75 ⭐️
I have so many mixed feelings about this book... I actually loved it a lot, but there are a couple of things that didn't let me rate it higher.
There is miscommunication in this that after 150-200 pages it just started to bother me... If she just told him about her health issues this book would probably be 50% shorter. Also, both of the FMC and the MMC are over 25 years old and they sometimes act like kids, especially the MMC
The writing wasn't always the best and it did have moments of tell and not show, but I actually liked the story enough that it didn't bother me much.
I loved both characters and I adore to see more PCOS and endometriosis representation!
Even with all of this I had a great time and definitely recommend!
Actual rating 3.75 ⭐️
I have so many mixed feelings about this book... I actually loved it a lot, but there are a couple of things that didn't let me rate it higher.
There is miscommunication in this that after 150-200 pages it just started to bother me... If she just told him about her health issues this book would probably be 50% shorter. Also, both of the FMC and the MMC are over 25 years old and they sometimes act like kids, especially the MMC
The writing wasn't always the best and it did have moments of tell and not show, but I actually liked the story enough that it didn't bother me much.
I loved both characters and I adore to see more PCOS and endometriosis representation!
Even with all of this I had a great time and definitely recommend!
February 19, 2026
*3.5
Thank you to Caroline Frank and her team for sending me the e-arc!
This book is so sweet, truly a book for book lovers!
Lottie and Knox are both really great characters; their relationship truly is the kind that grows on you. They are both so vulnerable and loving at the same time.
I wasn't a big fan of the miscommunication throughout the book. I am someone who believes that relationships should be built on complete transparency from both partners, and this book doesn't really showcase that. Which is okay! Just not for me.
Another thing that I want to point out is that I wish the Latina rep were a bit clearer. I went into the book knowing that Lottie was Latina, but didn't know where she was from until more than halfway through the book. We get to see a sneak peek at some of her family's dynamic which is how it's shown to the reader that she is Latina. I just think that Lottie's character could've been more developed in a cultural sense.
Lottie has Endometriosis, and you can really tell that the author put much thought and care into showcasing this, which was amazing to read about. Latina disability rep is truly amazing when done properly, which I really applaud Caroline for!
Overall, this is a really sweet book, if you're looking for a "in-my-feels" kind of book this will def be up your ally!
Thank you to Caroline Frank and her team for sending me the e-arc!
This book is so sweet, truly a book for book lovers!
Lottie and Knox are both really great characters; their relationship truly is the kind that grows on you. They are both so vulnerable and loving at the same time.
I wasn't a big fan of the miscommunication throughout the book. I am someone who believes that relationships should be built on complete transparency from both partners, and this book doesn't really showcase that. Which is okay! Just not for me.
Another thing that I want to point out is that I wish the Latina rep were a bit clearer. I went into the book knowing that Lottie was Latina, but didn't know where she was from until more than halfway through the book. We get to see a sneak peek at some of her family's dynamic which is how it's shown to the reader that she is Latina. I just think that Lottie's character could've been more developed in a cultural sense.
Lottie has Endometriosis, and you can really tell that the author put much thought and care into showcasing this, which was amazing to read about. Latina disability rep is truly amazing when done properly, which I really applaud Caroline for!
Overall, this is a really sweet book, if you're looking for a "in-my-feels" kind of book this will def be up your ally!
January 29, 2026
1. i’m a slut for a good cover
2. i’m a slut for a man who falls first and hard
and this book has both. 😏
Knox and Lottie were perfect. the storyline gets heavy but done so beautifully. grief is such a powerful and emotional topic to talk about and it’s written beautifully in this book.
tysm for an arc of One Last Thing Before You Go. 💕
2. i’m a slut for a man who falls first and hard
and this book has both. 😏
Knox and Lottie were perfect. the storyline gets heavy but done so beautifully. grief is such a powerful and emotional topic to talk about and it’s written beautifully in this book.
tysm for an arc of One Last Thing Before You Go. 💕
March 4, 2026
a little moment for the BEAUTIFUL cover!! read this as an ARC so you best believe I'm ordering the paperback!
I ended up love love loving this adorable one night stand x forced proximity x small town romance. Lottie and Knox were 🤌🏽
yes some of their disagreements seemed to escalate quickly to maybe create arguments - I loved the whole storyline to look past it haha, esp how it wasn't your cliché romance! while we LOVE a man obsessed, it was nice to see the fmc in the caretaker role while he was going through his situation!!! the pcos x endo rep was also so interesting & enjoyed how it was incorporated into the story!
I ended up love love loving this adorable one night stand x forced proximity x small town romance. Lottie and Knox were 🤌🏽
yes some of their disagreements seemed to escalate quickly to maybe create arguments - I loved the whole storyline to look past it haha, esp how it wasn't your cliché romance! while we LOVE a man obsessed, it was nice to see the fmc in the caretaker role while he was going through his situation!!! the pcos x endo rep was also so interesting & enjoyed how it was incorporated into the story!
January 29, 2026
This book captures the duality of invisible symptoms and the reality of chronic pain. I feel seen! I understand the insecurities and mind games it triggers and they are well portrayed.
There are great full circle moments, family drama, small town vibes (gossip and meddling), grief, and raw emotions that will give you all the feels!
I loved the banter, his caring & protective nature, her standoffish but playful stance, and the parallel of his parents’ story.
There are great full circle moments, family drama, small town vibes (gossip and meddling), grief, and raw emotions that will give you all the feels!
I loved the banter, his caring & protective nature, her standoffish but playful stance, and the parallel of his parents’ story.
January 17, 2026
This was a 3.5⭐️ read for me.
A journey of grief, love, and self-discovery. This story is equal parts heartwarming and heartbreaking.
I empathized with Lottie’s hold ups and reservations, but also felt like she let her past dictate way too much of her present and future.
Knox is adorable and amazing and the sweetest.
I am not a fan of Lottie’s sister. Like not your body, not your choice, your opinion does not matter. I really needed to get that off my chest because reading that part of the book had me all riled up.
I received and ARC of this book. This review is my own and represents my own opinions.
A journey of grief, love, and self-discovery. This story is equal parts heartwarming and heartbreaking.
I empathized with Lottie’s hold ups and reservations, but also felt like she let her past dictate way too much of her present and future.
Knox is adorable and amazing and the sweetest.
I am not a fan of Lottie’s sister. Like not your body, not your choice, your opinion does not matter. I really needed to get that off my chest because reading that part of the book had me all riled up.
I received and ARC of this book. This review is my own and represents my own opinions.
February 17, 2026
I was given this as an ARC read! Thank you so much for trust me with your baby, Caroline!
This was so cute!!! The “he falls first AND harder” trope is probably one of my top favorites.
I went in thinking the age gap was going to be where the MMC was older, so it was kinda nice having this be different where the FMC is older.
I really thought the ending was going to go a different way… (where they miraculously end up pregnant) AND I’m so glad it ended the way it did. Because it’s more realistic this way!
Both characters you instantly become attached too.
- Age Gap
- PCOS & Endometriosis
- Spice
- He Falls First
- One Night Stand
- Death (off page) and grief of a family member
This was so cute!!! The “he falls first AND harder” trope is probably one of my top favorites.
I went in thinking the age gap was going to be where the MMC was older, so it was kinda nice having this be different where the FMC is older.
I really thought the ending was going to go a different way… (where they miraculously end up pregnant) AND I’m so glad it ended the way it did. Because it’s more realistic this way!
Both characters you instantly become attached too.
- Age Gap
- PCOS & Endometriosis
- Spice
- He Falls First
- One Night Stand
- Death (off page) and grief of a family member
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 1, 2026
This book was perfection. I feel like Caroline wrote about me through Lottie. I feel seen with the Endo representation.
Knox is dreamy.
I just adore this book. Absolutely obsessed!
Knox is dreamy.
I just adore this book. Absolutely obsessed!
February 10, 2026
I was graced with an ARC of this book by the lovely author, Caroline, and so here’s my honest review.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First things first: I’m a sucker for a beautiful cover, and this is SOLID 10/10. I loved it!!
Now, I have to say that this reading this book felt like a warm hug on a very needed moment. I loved that it wasn’t only a love story, but about Lottie rebuilding herself and healing after all the ups and downs she’s been through! Another thing that stand out to me was the maturity the age gap was handled with. The tension wasn’t forced, but some specific communication could’ve been a bit better from start.
Lastly, with PCOS and endo, I feel like Lottie’s fears of rejection and motherhood were beautifully portrayed, in a very tender and relatable way; adding so much to the story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
First things first: I’m a sucker for a beautiful cover, and this is SOLID 10/10. I loved it!!
Now, I have to say that this reading this book felt like a warm hug on a very needed moment. I loved that it wasn’t only a love story, but about Lottie rebuilding herself and healing after all the ups and downs she’s been through! Another thing that stand out to me was the maturity the age gap was handled with. The tension wasn’t forced, but some specific communication could’ve been a bit better from start.
Lastly, with PCOS and endo, I feel like Lottie’s fears of rejection and motherhood were beautifully portrayed, in a very tender and relatable way; adding so much to the story.
January 18, 2026
5 ⭐️
|ARC|
⋆ dual pov
⋆ latine FMC
⋆ one night stand
⋆ forced proximity
⋆ PCOS & ENDO rep
⋆ bookstore romance
⋆ age gap (she’s older)
__________
oh my this book. Another 5 star book to add to this year already and a well deserved one too. One Last Thing Before You Go is a small town bookstore romance where we follow our FMC Lottie as she tries to pick up the pieces after the owner of the bookstore she worked at passed and our MMC Knox as he steps foot into a small town to collect his inheritance from his now deceased father. We watch through their eyes as tension grows between them after a one night stand and as the break down each other walls. We watch as their new partnership develops and start to wonder if this was fate or an underlying plot point.
Omg these two! I’m absolutely in love with them both. Knox and Lottie are two individuals that have a lot of baggage but together they make their worries and problems disappear for just a moment. I love Lottie so so so much. Her strength and her fight to find herself again and to just go through everything she’s going through from her diagnosis of endo and PCOS to her navigating everything with the bookstore. She’s such an inspiring character truly. I also loved Knox so much, I loved seeing his playful side but also seeing the vulnerability in him. Both are such complex yet beautiful characters and together they just work perfectly!
Oh my has Caroline done it again. I’m in love with this book! The absolute care and attention put into every little detail of this book is so beautifully done. Caroline does such a good job putting us into the perspectives of her characters and the universe we are in! I literally could not put this book down but also just didn’t want it to end! I was such a pleasure to read such a beautifully constructed book!
Overall, I loved every second of this book! I would like to thank Caroline Frank and her team for the amazing ARC and I can’t wait to read more in the future! 📖📷❤️🩹
|ARC|
⋆ dual pov
⋆ latine FMC
⋆ one night stand
⋆ forced proximity
⋆ PCOS & ENDO rep
⋆ bookstore romance
⋆ age gap (she’s older)
__________
oh my this book. Another 5 star book to add to this year already and a well deserved one too. One Last Thing Before You Go is a small town bookstore romance where we follow our FMC Lottie as she tries to pick up the pieces after the owner of the bookstore she worked at passed and our MMC Knox as he steps foot into a small town to collect his inheritance from his now deceased father. We watch through their eyes as tension grows between them after a one night stand and as the break down each other walls. We watch as their new partnership develops and start to wonder if this was fate or an underlying plot point.
Omg these two! I’m absolutely in love with them both. Knox and Lottie are two individuals that have a lot of baggage but together they make their worries and problems disappear for just a moment. I love Lottie so so so much. Her strength and her fight to find herself again and to just go through everything she’s going through from her diagnosis of endo and PCOS to her navigating everything with the bookstore. She’s such an inspiring character truly. I also loved Knox so much, I loved seeing his playful side but also seeing the vulnerability in him. Both are such complex yet beautiful characters and together they just work perfectly!
Oh my has Caroline done it again. I’m in love with this book! The absolute care and attention put into every little detail of this book is so beautifully done. Caroline does such a good job putting us into the perspectives of her characters and the universe we are in! I literally could not put this book down but also just didn’t want it to end! I was such a pleasure to read such a beautifully constructed book!
Overall, I loved every second of this book! I would like to thank Caroline Frank and her team for the amazing ARC and I can’t wait to read more in the future! 📖📷❤️🩹
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a dual POV novel and I loved Lottie and Knox, who had an immediate connection when they met at the bar. There is so much sexual tension between them as they work together on renovating the bookstore and the open door scenes highlighted their amazing chemistry. The way Knox is so head over heels for Lottie even though she's seven years older was so cute!!
I loved that Lottie and Knox actually communicate and even when they choose not to disclose certain things they discuss why and respect each others boundaries like mature adults. The way they support each other through tough moments is so sweet, and I loved how Knox is so understanding and patient with Lottie even when he doesn't know her full story.
Lottie's experience with PCOS and endo is such important representation and I appreciated how the story demonstrates everything she has to deal with and how it affects her physically, mentally, and relationshipwise. Her journey from feeling like a failure to discovering what it really means to have "made it" was heartwarming.
The supporting characters were great, notably Lottie's Gen Z coworker, Jenn. I loved the humor and all the millennial references (especially the Twilight ones). I really enjoyed this book and will absolutely be reading more of this author's work!
I loved that Lottie and Knox actually communicate and even when they choose not to disclose certain things they discuss why and respect each others boundaries like mature adults. The way they support each other through tough moments is so sweet, and I loved how Knox is so understanding and patient with Lottie even when he doesn't know her full story.
Lottie's experience with PCOS and endo is such important representation and I appreciated how the story demonstrates everything she has to deal with and how it affects her physically, mentally, and relationshipwise. Her journey from feeling like a failure to discovering what it really means to have "made it" was heartwarming.
The supporting characters were great, notably Lottie's Gen Z coworker, Jenn. I loved the humor and all the millennial references (especially the Twilight ones). I really enjoyed this book and will absolutely be reading more of this author's work!
February 7, 2026
*ARC REVIEW*
Cute!! The cover art is what sold me on this book cause it is just beautiful.
There is a heavy Endo and PCOS rep that I feel (as someone who has neither) was a different perspective than I typically find in books. I have read many PCOS rep romance books where the FMC gets pregnant in spite of her PCOS diagnosis. Like some kind of miracle. This book is NOT that. And I enjoyed it. I did catch myself thinking and hoping she would magically beat biology and get pregnant on accident. I had to really kind of sit with my thoughts about that and readjust some things.
My only mild annoyance was the FMC’s emphasis on their age gap with the MMC. She is only 7 years older which feels like NOTHING and homie has a big hang up over it.
Cute!! The cover art is what sold me on this book cause it is just beautiful.
There is a heavy Endo and PCOS rep that I feel (as someone who has neither) was a different perspective than I typically find in books. I have read many PCOS rep romance books where the FMC gets pregnant in spite of her PCOS diagnosis. Like some kind of miracle. This book is NOT that. And I enjoyed it. I did catch myself thinking and hoping she would magically beat biology and get pregnant on accident. I had to really kind of sit with my thoughts about that and readjust some things.
My only mild annoyance was the FMC’s emphasis on their age gap with the MMC. She is only 7 years older which feels like NOTHING and homie has a big hang up over it.
February 28, 2026
3.75⭐️
February 10, 2026
From the moment Lottie and Knox meet, the chemistry is immediate. It’s not soft. It’s not subtle. It’s charged. The kind of instant pull that makes you forget logic and lean into instinct.
Their first night together isn’t written like a meaningless hookup. It’s intense, emotional, and intimate in a way that surprises them both. And what I loved most? It doesn’t feel cheap. It feels like two lonely people colliding at exactly the wrong — or maybe right — time.
But what makes this story stand out isn’t just the attraction. It’s what happens after.
Lottie runs.
And not because she didn’t feel it — but because she felt it too much.
Lottie carries so much beneath the surface. Her body insecurities. Her fear of not being “enough.” The way she overthinks every look, every touch, every reaction. Even on that narrow staircase when she catches Knox staring at her, her mind spirals between desire and shame. Between confidence and self-criticism. That internal conflict felt painfully real.
She doesn’t date. She doesn’t do complicated. She leaves before she can be left.
Knox, on the other hand, doesn’t brush it off. When he wakes up alone, it hurts him. And he says it. That’s what made me love him. He’s not toxic, not manipulative — just honest. “After the night we had, I deserved better.” He acknowledges the connection. He refuses to pretend it was nothing.
Then the story shifts into something deeper.
Walter’s death.
The inheritance.
The cluttered apartment.
The bookstore.
Knox returning to a father he hadn’t spoken to in ten years adds so much emotional weight. His grief isn’t loud — it’s complicated. Detached. Resentful. Confused. And Lottie, who saw a softer side of Walter, feels protective of the man Knox never really got to know. That dynamic added such a beautiful layer of tension between them.
And the age gap?
Seven years doesn’t sound huge — but the way Lottie fixates on it, the way she calls him “young,” the way she tries to convince herself it’s wrong… it shows how desperately she’s looking for reasons to push him away. Meanwhile, Knox stands there, confident, steady, emotionally mature, telling her he knows what he wants.
Watching their walls slowly crack was my favorite part.
The near-kiss in the apartment.
The way he pulls back because it’s his dead father’s place.
The command in his voice when he tells her not to disappear like that again.
The way he remembers every detail about that night — and isn’t afraid to say it.
The tension is constant. Not just sexual — emotional.
This isn’t just about two people hooking up again.
It’s about vulnerability.
About staying instead of running.
About choosing something that scares you.
Lottie thinks she’s protecting herself.
Knox thinks she’s wrong.
And honestly? I was rooting for him the entire time.
This book gave me instant attraction, slow emotional unraveling, grief, heat, insecurity, softness, and a hero who refuses to give up without crossing lines.
Tender but intense.
Messy but grounded.
Sexy but emotional.
I loved it.
Their first night together isn’t written like a meaningless hookup. It’s intense, emotional, and intimate in a way that surprises them both. And what I loved most? It doesn’t feel cheap. It feels like two lonely people colliding at exactly the wrong — or maybe right — time.
But what makes this story stand out isn’t just the attraction. It’s what happens after.
Lottie runs.
And not because she didn’t feel it — but because she felt it too much.
Lottie carries so much beneath the surface. Her body insecurities. Her fear of not being “enough.” The way she overthinks every look, every touch, every reaction. Even on that narrow staircase when she catches Knox staring at her, her mind spirals between desire and shame. Between confidence and self-criticism. That internal conflict felt painfully real.
She doesn’t date. She doesn’t do complicated. She leaves before she can be left.
Knox, on the other hand, doesn’t brush it off. When he wakes up alone, it hurts him. And he says it. That’s what made me love him. He’s not toxic, not manipulative — just honest. “After the night we had, I deserved better.” He acknowledges the connection. He refuses to pretend it was nothing.
Then the story shifts into something deeper.
Walter’s death.
The inheritance.
The cluttered apartment.
The bookstore.
Knox returning to a father he hadn’t spoken to in ten years adds so much emotional weight. His grief isn’t loud — it’s complicated. Detached. Resentful. Confused. And Lottie, who saw a softer side of Walter, feels protective of the man Knox never really got to know. That dynamic added such a beautiful layer of tension between them.
And the age gap?
Seven years doesn’t sound huge — but the way Lottie fixates on it, the way she calls him “young,” the way she tries to convince herself it’s wrong… it shows how desperately she’s looking for reasons to push him away. Meanwhile, Knox stands there, confident, steady, emotionally mature, telling her he knows what he wants.
Watching their walls slowly crack was my favorite part.
The near-kiss in the apartment.
The way he pulls back because it’s his dead father’s place.
The command in his voice when he tells her not to disappear like that again.
The way he remembers every detail about that night — and isn’t afraid to say it.
The tension is constant. Not just sexual — emotional.
This isn’t just about two people hooking up again.
It’s about vulnerability.
About staying instead of running.
About choosing something that scares you.
Lottie thinks she’s protecting herself.
Knox thinks she’s wrong.
And honestly? I was rooting for him the entire time.
This book gave me instant attraction, slow emotional unraveling, grief, heat, insecurity, softness, and a hero who refuses to give up without crossing lines.
Tender but intense.
Messy but grounded.
Sexy but emotional.
I loved it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This was a fun read for me, who doesn’t love a book about books? Our main characters unexpectedly inherit ownership of a small-town bookstore and must decide what to do with it. This story was multi-layered, covering topics such as endometriosis, PCOS, Grief, infertility, and more. It is noted at the beginning of the book that the author pulled from her personal experiences with endo and PCOS. As a result, the mental and physical tolls of both conditions are discussed in a way that really helps the reader understand them better. Both of these conditions affect countless female-bodied people, and their symptoms are constantly dismissed or misdiagnosed.
Lottie, our female main character, introduces us to both the mental and physical effects these conditions have on her body, mind, and life. This, in turn, leads her to build up a lot of walls and isolate herself romantically, thinking of herself as inadequate or a burden. Our male main character, Knox, is a young guy who is instantly enamored of her and slowly tries to break down her walls. Lottie is learning to love herself for who she is and taking the necessary steps to regain control of her body and her health. They both have their own journeys of grief over the bookstore's owner, Walter, as they begin a renovation project and decide what to do with the store. I applaud the author for being vulnerable and bold enough to bring her personal battles into a story that brings awareness and a new level of understanding for people who have no connection to these conditions.
Their dynamic is very refreshing, and I loved finding parallels between them and my own relationship with my husband. From first-date awkwardness and joy to her feeling stuck in life, the age gap is similar, even though ours is reversed. Even while she tried to fight it, there was an instant connection between them, but not insta-love; it was more natural and realistic. That feeling of, I just want to keep this person with me, around me, and keep getting to know them. Lottie and Knox interacted with ease; nothing was forced, and their bond only deepened over time. This book was one where I knew instantly it was going to be a personal 5-star, because I absolutely couldn't put it down and read almost 50% of it in one sitting.
Additional note as an ARC reader: There are some formatting issues within the book, the main one I saw was a sentence split unintentionally as a new paragraph when its just the last two words of the sentence. Probably just an issue with changing the formatting from a written doc to a book. There was also at least one instance of missing words in sentences that could be caught by an extra read through by an editor or even just the author. Something that is caught if you read "aloud" as I do with that voice in your head.
Lottie, our female main character, introduces us to both the mental and physical effects these conditions have on her body, mind, and life. This, in turn, leads her to build up a lot of walls and isolate herself romantically, thinking of herself as inadequate or a burden. Our male main character, Knox, is a young guy who is instantly enamored of her and slowly tries to break down her walls. Lottie is learning to love herself for who she is and taking the necessary steps to regain control of her body and her health. They both have their own journeys of grief over the bookstore's owner, Walter, as they begin a renovation project and decide what to do with the store. I applaud the author for being vulnerable and bold enough to bring her personal battles into a story that brings awareness and a new level of understanding for people who have no connection to these conditions.
Their dynamic is very refreshing, and I loved finding parallels between them and my own relationship with my husband. From first-date awkwardness and joy to her feeling stuck in life, the age gap is similar, even though ours is reversed. Even while she tried to fight it, there was an instant connection between them, but not insta-love; it was more natural and realistic. That feeling of, I just want to keep this person with me, around me, and keep getting to know them. Lottie and Knox interacted with ease; nothing was forced, and their bond only deepened over time. This book was one where I knew instantly it was going to be a personal 5-star, because I absolutely couldn't put it down and read almost 50% of it in one sitting.
Additional note as an ARC reader: There are some formatting issues within the book, the main one I saw was a sentence split unintentionally as a new paragraph when its just the last two words of the sentence. Probably just an issue with changing the formatting from a written doc to a book. There was also at least one instance of missing words in sentences that could be caught by an extra read through by an editor or even just the author. Something that is caught if you read "aloud" as I do with that voice in your head.
February 17, 2026
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️/5
My first read by Caroline Frank and let me just say I AM A FAN!
I don’t know what kind of magic she put in this book, but it was truly so good.
I laughed, I cried (multiple times), and felt the HEAT 🥵 The spice in this book was next level and I LOVED it. I especially liked that we didn’t get the same ‘phrases’ that we often get in the spicy scenes, it felt more authentic and natural which made it that much more enjoyable to read. I really enjoyed that the MMC didn’t over do it with his pet names for the FMC. He still threw them in here and there, but not in a wat that I sometimes find to be cringy.
Now to what I really loved as far as the storyline - this book touched on such really emotions of woman suffering with endo/PCOS as well as infertility. I really appreciated that the story had a strong emphasis on woman debunking the idea that they have to have children to be fulfilled in life OR that they have to try and have kids at all costs, even when it means sacrifice their physical and mental health. I think this was one of the most important messages that this story gave us. Similarly, I really appreciated that this story highlighted how hard it can be to ‘find yourself’ again after a break up or a divorce. Many people don’t understand that when a person goes through this, they aren’t always grieving the lost of the person that left their life, they are grieving the life they thought they were going to have and what they planned for themselves. It was so important the way Lottie corrected people when they thought she was upset about ‘losing’ her awful excuse for a husband, but that she was grieving the type of life she wanted for her life. Lottie had her flaws, and I wanted to get this girl into therapy so many different times in the books, but at the end of the day, I loved how she found her way in the end.
Then we have our sweet Knox. THAT’S MY MAN MY MAN MY MAN! He was such a sweetheart. Although there was an age gap between him and Lottie, him being younger, I loved that he continued to advocate for himself because he really wasn’t ’that’ young and he carried himself very maturely. He is a man who wears his heart on his sleeve and isn’t afraid to voice what he wants and feels. That is something that should be celebrated and not looked down on as a flaw in my opinion.
It was so special the way Lottie helped Knox learn more about his father, and process the trauma he had experienced with the unexpected potion he found himself in. Reading Walter’s journeys WRECKED me. I won’t give any spoilers but just get your tissues ready, because those hit HARD.
I truly hope that you all pick up this book and read more indie latine authors!
My first read by Caroline Frank and let me just say I AM A FAN!
I don’t know what kind of magic she put in this book, but it was truly so good.
I laughed, I cried (multiple times), and felt the HEAT 🥵 The spice in this book was next level and I LOVED it. I especially liked that we didn’t get the same ‘phrases’ that we often get in the spicy scenes, it felt more authentic and natural which made it that much more enjoyable to read. I really enjoyed that the MMC didn’t over do it with his pet names for the FMC. He still threw them in here and there, but not in a wat that I sometimes find to be cringy.
Now to what I really loved as far as the storyline - this book touched on such really emotions of woman suffering with endo/PCOS as well as infertility. I really appreciated that the story had a strong emphasis on woman debunking the idea that they have to have children to be fulfilled in life OR that they have to try and have kids at all costs, even when it means sacrifice their physical and mental health. I think this was one of the most important messages that this story gave us. Similarly, I really appreciated that this story highlighted how hard it can be to ‘find yourself’ again after a break up or a divorce. Many people don’t understand that when a person goes through this, they aren’t always grieving the lost of the person that left their life, they are grieving the life they thought they were going to have and what they planned for themselves. It was so important the way Lottie corrected people when they thought she was upset about ‘losing’ her awful excuse for a husband, but that she was grieving the type of life she wanted for her life. Lottie had her flaws, and I wanted to get this girl into therapy so many different times in the books, but at the end of the day, I loved how she found her way in the end.
Then we have our sweet Knox. THAT’S MY MAN MY MAN MY MAN! He was such a sweetheart. Although there was an age gap between him and Lottie, him being younger, I loved that he continued to advocate for himself because he really wasn’t ’that’ young and he carried himself very maturely. He is a man who wears his heart on his sleeve and isn’t afraid to voice what he wants and feels. That is something that should be celebrated and not looked down on as a flaw in my opinion.
It was so special the way Lottie helped Knox learn more about his father, and process the trauma he had experienced with the unexpected potion he found himself in. Reading Walter’s journeys WRECKED me. I won’t give any spoilers but just get your tissues ready, because those hit HARD.
I truly hope that you all pick up this book and read more indie latine authors!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐ (4/5 Stars)
Release Date: February 10, 2026
A Bookstore Romance with Real Heart
A huge thank you to Caroline Frank for providing me with an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this beautiful story. It officially hits shelves on February 10th, and you’re going to want to have your tissues and a cozy blanket ready for this one.
Spoiler-Free Synopsis
Carlotta “Lottie” Veracruz is a long way from the high-profile New York life she imagined. After a devastating divorce following her diagnosis of PCOS and endometriosis, she’s back in her hometown of Ceres Cove, Maine, working at the local bookstore. After a night of grief-fueled martinis leads to a steamy one-night stand with a handsome stranger, Lottie thinks she can just go back to her plan of escaping to NY.
Enter Knox Riddick. Knox is a freelance photographer who never stays in one place for long. But when his estranged father passes away, he’s shocked to find he’s inherited a percentage of a bookstore, and his new business partner is the woman who snuck out of his hotel room just days prior. Now, they are forced to work together to fix up and sell the shop. The only problem? The more they try to keep things professional, the harder it is to ignore the chemistry... and for Lottie to ignore the fear that Knox will walk away once he knows the truth about her fertility.
Why This Book Hit Home
This book had a deeply personal effect on me. As someone who has navigated the challenges of endometriosis, seeing this kind of representation in a romance novel meant so much. While I don't personally endure PCOS or the specific fertility issues Lottie faces, my heart breaks for everyone who does. Caroline Frank handled these topics with such grace and sensitivity. It made Lottie’s journey feel incredibly raw and real.
The Tropes We Love
📖 Bookstore Romance: The ultimate setting for bibliophiles.
💖 Age Gap (She’s Older): I loved the dynamic of a woman in her 30s and a man in his 20s.
📖 Latine FMC: Great cultural representation.
💖 Forced Proximity: Nothing like inheriting a business to make you face your feelings!
📖 PCOS & Endo Rep: Essential and moving medical representation.
💖 One Night Stand to Lovers: The tension was top-tier.
Final Thoughts
I loved Lottie and Knox so much. Their journey isn't just about romance; it's about healing, finding where you belong, and learning that "happily ever after" can look different than you originally planned. If you love a small-town romance with deep emotional stakes, put this on your TBR for February!
Release Date: February 10, 2026
A Bookstore Romance with Real Heart
A huge thank you to Caroline Frank for providing me with an Advanced Reader Copy (ARC) of this beautiful story. It officially hits shelves on February 10th, and you’re going to want to have your tissues and a cozy blanket ready for this one.
Spoiler-Free Synopsis
Carlotta “Lottie” Veracruz is a long way from the high-profile New York life she imagined. After a devastating divorce following her diagnosis of PCOS and endometriosis, she’s back in her hometown of Ceres Cove, Maine, working at the local bookstore. After a night of grief-fueled martinis leads to a steamy one-night stand with a handsome stranger, Lottie thinks she can just go back to her plan of escaping to NY.
Enter Knox Riddick. Knox is a freelance photographer who never stays in one place for long. But when his estranged father passes away, he’s shocked to find he’s inherited a percentage of a bookstore, and his new business partner is the woman who snuck out of his hotel room just days prior. Now, they are forced to work together to fix up and sell the shop. The only problem? The more they try to keep things professional, the harder it is to ignore the chemistry... and for Lottie to ignore the fear that Knox will walk away once he knows the truth about her fertility.
Why This Book Hit Home
This book had a deeply personal effect on me. As someone who has navigated the challenges of endometriosis, seeing this kind of representation in a romance novel meant so much. While I don't personally endure PCOS or the specific fertility issues Lottie faces, my heart breaks for everyone who does. Caroline Frank handled these topics with such grace and sensitivity. It made Lottie’s journey feel incredibly raw and real.
The Tropes We Love
📖 Bookstore Romance: The ultimate setting for bibliophiles.
💖 Age Gap (She’s Older): I loved the dynamic of a woman in her 30s and a man in his 20s.
📖 Latine FMC: Great cultural representation.
💖 Forced Proximity: Nothing like inheriting a business to make you face your feelings!
📖 PCOS & Endo Rep: Essential and moving medical representation.
💖 One Night Stand to Lovers: The tension was top-tier.
Final Thoughts
I loved Lottie and Knox so much. Their journey isn't just about romance; it's about healing, finding where you belong, and learning that "happily ever after" can look different than you originally planned. If you love a small-town romance with deep emotional stakes, put this on your TBR for February!
Review of advance copy received from Author
4✨
⭑ Publication date: 10th February 2026
⭑ Genre: Romance
⭑ Tropes: Age gap (she's older), Bookstore romance, Forced proximity, Latine FMC, One night stand, Open door spice, PCOS & Endo Representation
⏸️ Please check all content/trigger warnings prior to reading.
✅ If you love tension filled, small town emotive romance novels that are full of heart & healing (with a decent helping of spice 👀) - add this to your TBR.
~
✧ R E V I E W ✧
Imagine your one night stand ending up as your business partner… Allow me to introduce you to Lottie & Knox.
Firstly, what a beautiful cover this book has. Bold & bright, it caught my attention right away. Plus, any book with multiple shelves of books on the cover is obviously an automatic yes!
Secondly, I have to praise Caroline for the inclusion & representation of Endometriosis & PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome). These conditions affect so many women around the world & frustratingly, are often dismissed or misdiagnosed. Taking inspiration from her own health journey & sharing it with readers is not only amazing but incredibly brave too. Thank you Caroline ♥️
This book had my emotions up, down, left & right (in the best way possible). It was soft but spicy, heartbreaking yet heartwarming & believe me when I say, if you look up tension in the dictionary, you’ll find a photo of Lottie & Knox.
✧ C H A R A C T E R S ✧
Caroline created 2 brilliant characters & I was all in on them from the jump.
Knox, whew. The way that man fell for Lottie & I mean fell HARD was ah, chefs kiss. He was everything you would want in a partner - patient, loyal, attentive, respectful & due to that, Lottie’s reluctance to open up was quite frustrating! However, seeing her walls break down & how she softened into Knox, allowing him to know her in totality was beautiful. They filled each other’s voids & it was impossible not to root for them so when I say the 3rd act break-up really had me sweating, I totally mean it!!
✧ T O - C O N C L U D E . . . ✧
One Last Thing Before You Go was a beautiful journey filled with growth, healing, humour & heart. Oh & I suppose the spice wasn’t bad either…❤️🔥
Caroline’s writing was engaging, emotive & the depth & complexity of Lottie & Knox’s characters really allowed me to feel what they were feeling. It was a love story with an edge to it & I found it more honest, vulnerable & raw than your typical romance.
This was my first read of Caroline’s but it definitely won’t be my last! Fellow romance readers, this one’s for you ☑️
❣️Thank you to Caroline Frank for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC. This is my honest opinion & I’m sharing it voluntarily.
⭑ Publication date: 10th February 2026
⭑ Genre: Romance
⭑ Tropes: Age gap (she's older), Bookstore romance, Forced proximity, Latine FMC, One night stand, Open door spice, PCOS & Endo Representation
⏸️ Please check all content/trigger warnings prior to reading.
✅ If you love tension filled, small town emotive romance novels that are full of heart & healing (with a decent helping of spice 👀) - add this to your TBR.
~
✧ R E V I E W ✧
Imagine your one night stand ending up as your business partner… Allow me to introduce you to Lottie & Knox.
Firstly, what a beautiful cover this book has. Bold & bright, it caught my attention right away. Plus, any book with multiple shelves of books on the cover is obviously an automatic yes!
Secondly, I have to praise Caroline for the inclusion & representation of Endometriosis & PCOS (Polycystic ovary syndrome). These conditions affect so many women around the world & frustratingly, are often dismissed or misdiagnosed. Taking inspiration from her own health journey & sharing it with readers is not only amazing but incredibly brave too. Thank you Caroline ♥️
This book had my emotions up, down, left & right (in the best way possible). It was soft but spicy, heartbreaking yet heartwarming & believe me when I say, if you look up tension in the dictionary, you’ll find a photo of Lottie & Knox.
✧ C H A R A C T E R S ✧
Caroline created 2 brilliant characters & I was all in on them from the jump.
Knox, whew. The way that man fell for Lottie & I mean fell HARD was ah, chefs kiss. He was everything you would want in a partner - patient, loyal, attentive, respectful & due to that, Lottie’s reluctance to open up was quite frustrating! However, seeing her walls break down & how she softened into Knox, allowing him to know her in totality was beautiful. They filled each other’s voids & it was impossible not to root for them so when I say the 3rd act break-up really had me sweating, I totally mean it!!
✧ T O - C O N C L U D E . . . ✧
One Last Thing Before You Go was a beautiful journey filled with growth, healing, humour & heart. Oh & I suppose the spice wasn’t bad either…❤️🔥
Caroline’s writing was engaging, emotive & the depth & complexity of Lottie & Knox’s characters really allowed me to feel what they were feeling. It was a love story with an edge to it & I found it more honest, vulnerable & raw than your typical romance.
This was my first read of Caroline’s but it definitely won’t be my last! Fellow romance readers, this one’s for you ☑️
❣️Thank you to Caroline Frank for giving me the opportunity to read this ARC. This is my honest opinion & I’m sharing it voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I would like to thank Caroline Frank for giving me the opportunity to read an ARC of "One Last Thing Before You Go". I've genuinely enjoyed this book and hope to read more of her work.
"One Last Thing Before You Go" has been a great change of pace to some of the other books I've read that have used good but commonly used tropes. I really enjoyed getting to read a book where the FMC was the older character in an age gap trope, especially how there was a greater focus on the struggles of dating outside of one's age range. Both characters show a lot of growth in their respective ways, both in and outside of the relationship. Lottie feels like a great representation of what women fear when they're dating, esepcially when it comes to trying to find someone who shares the same idea of a future together. The progression of Lottie and Knox's relationship had a great flow to it considering how their relationship started, making me feel satisfied at every chapter.
Knox is definitely another MMC to add to the list of book boyfriends for me. He's a great example of actions speak louder than words, such as when he takes care of Lottie through flare ups and when he's able to take charge when taking care of the bookstore renovations. Despite being younger, he's able to hold the maturity that Lottie needs in a partner. Also, he's just really hot so no complaints from me.
While I enjoyed most of the writing, there were a couple of parts that I felt were cringey. The way that Gen-Z was described through interactions with Jenn kind of bothered me. As someone who is Gen-Z myself, I don't act like that or associate with people who act that way. While I might dislike these little bits, I understand that there are other generations that view Gen-Z this way and there are people who act like that, which is why this didn't affect my rating of the book.
In conclusion, I give this book a shining five stars. I will definitely be buying a physical copy of this book when it releases for my trophy shelf. For anyone looking into buying this book, I recommend this book for anyone looking for an easy read with some good spice. I would say this would be great as a palate cleanser for any dark romance or intense fantasy readers. This book has a great sprinkle of heartbreak and reality checks that will make you tear up, and for any women out there struggling with reproductive health issues or feel alone while navigating their adult life, this is for sure for you.
"One Last Thing Before You Go" has been a great change of pace to some of the other books I've read that have used good but commonly used tropes. I really enjoyed getting to read a book where the FMC was the older character in an age gap trope, especially how there was a greater focus on the struggles of dating outside of one's age range. Both characters show a lot of growth in their respective ways, both in and outside of the relationship. Lottie feels like a great representation of what women fear when they're dating, esepcially when it comes to trying to find someone who shares the same idea of a future together. The progression of Lottie and Knox's relationship had a great flow to it considering how their relationship started, making me feel satisfied at every chapter.
Knox is definitely another MMC to add to the list of book boyfriends for me. He's a great example of actions speak louder than words, such as when he takes care of Lottie through flare ups and when he's able to take charge when taking care of the bookstore renovations. Despite being younger, he's able to hold the maturity that Lottie needs in a partner. Also, he's just really hot so no complaints from me.
While I enjoyed most of the writing, there were a couple of parts that I felt were cringey. The way that Gen-Z was described through interactions with Jenn kind of bothered me. As someone who is Gen-Z myself, I don't act like that or associate with people who act that way. While I might dislike these little bits, I understand that there are other generations that view Gen-Z this way and there are people who act like that, which is why this didn't affect my rating of the book.
In conclusion, I give this book a shining five stars. I will definitely be buying a physical copy of this book when it releases for my trophy shelf. For anyone looking into buying this book, I recommend this book for anyone looking for an easy read with some good spice. I would say this would be great as a palate cleanser for any dark romance or intense fantasy readers. This book has a great sprinkle of heartbreak and reality checks that will make you tear up, and for any women out there struggling with reproductive health issues or feel alone while navigating their adult life, this is for sure for you.
February 10, 2026
#Review: *One Last Thing Before You Go* - Caroline Frank - ARC [18+]
4.6/5✨
3/5🌶️
Carlotta “Lottie” Veracruz had some pretty tough years, because her husband wanted to have kids. But her health wasn't on her side, having endometriosis and PCOS. That was the main cause of their divorce and the thing which brought Lottie back in her hometown. Nothing has prepared her for the passing of the bookstore owner, where she was currently working. On top of that, she had a huge surprise when her name was mentioned in his will, saying that she inherited a part of that bookstore. But the shocking surprise was the part when the stranger with whom she shared a steamy night, ended up being the other person who also inherited a part of the place. Now they needed to work together to renovate it, because they wanted to sell it, in order to pursue their dreams. But will they be able to leave the attraction aside and focus only on that task?
Honestly, this book was super emotional, especially for the women who are dealing with this endometriosis condition. I felt that helplessness in Lottie's case and all she had to suffer because of it. I liked that she had the chance to rediscover herself and that she had the opportunity to experience love again, a different kind of love than the destructive one she was previously part of. Freelance photographer, Knox Riddick, the other person who got a part of the bookstore, was pretty different than Lottie and seven years younger than her, fact which kept on stressing her out, because she couldn't have kids and that might be something which could destroy again her relationship. They both had their own problems to fix and being each others shoulder to cry was exactly what they needed. But nothing is perfect and that was their relationship's case, which came with an expiration date. But hey, we can still hope for that HEA for them, right?
I enjoyed reading this book, loving how emotional it was and I liked the character's journey towards self acceptance and that complicated situation they were in. I recommend for you to check this book's triggers before diving into it.
So grateful for being part of Caroline's ARC team for this book, for which I wanna thank her so much!🥰
✨Tropes
▫️Reversed Age Gap (7 years gap)
▫️One Night Stand
▫️Starting Over
▫️Forced Proximity
▫️Bookstore Romance
▫️PCOS & Endo Rep
▫️Small Town
▫️Latina FMC
4.6/5✨
3/5🌶️
Carlotta “Lottie” Veracruz had some pretty tough years, because her husband wanted to have kids. But her health wasn't on her side, having endometriosis and PCOS. That was the main cause of their divorce and the thing which brought Lottie back in her hometown. Nothing has prepared her for the passing of the bookstore owner, where she was currently working. On top of that, she had a huge surprise when her name was mentioned in his will, saying that she inherited a part of that bookstore. But the shocking surprise was the part when the stranger with whom she shared a steamy night, ended up being the other person who also inherited a part of the place. Now they needed to work together to renovate it, because they wanted to sell it, in order to pursue their dreams. But will they be able to leave the attraction aside and focus only on that task?
Honestly, this book was super emotional, especially for the women who are dealing with this endometriosis condition. I felt that helplessness in Lottie's case and all she had to suffer because of it. I liked that she had the chance to rediscover herself and that she had the opportunity to experience love again, a different kind of love than the destructive one she was previously part of. Freelance photographer, Knox Riddick, the other person who got a part of the bookstore, was pretty different than Lottie and seven years younger than her, fact which kept on stressing her out, because she couldn't have kids and that might be something which could destroy again her relationship. They both had their own problems to fix and being each others shoulder to cry was exactly what they needed. But nothing is perfect and that was their relationship's case, which came with an expiration date. But hey, we can still hope for that HEA for them, right?
I enjoyed reading this book, loving how emotional it was and I liked the character's journey towards self acceptance and that complicated situation they were in. I recommend for you to check this book's triggers before diving into it.
So grateful for being part of Caroline's ARC team for this book, for which I wanna thank her so much!🥰
✨Tropes
▫️Reversed Age Gap (7 years gap)
▫️One Night Stand
▫️Starting Over
▫️Forced Proximity
▫️Bookstore Romance
▫️PCOS & Endo Rep
▫️Small Town
▫️Latina FMC
January 18, 2026
📚 📸
I received this book as an ARC and I’m so happy that I did! It was such a great book! That could be because it was a book about books and love, or because the author just had a way of drawing you in with her writing style. Probably both for me!
Lottie’s story is a sad one but an inspiring one. I looovveeee the name Lottie! Everytime I hear it, it reminds me of Phantom of The Opera (Little Lottie) and that’s one of my favorite movies! I had friends that have either PCOS or Endometriosis but never both so to see what these two can do to a person together is heartbreaking. And the way that the author put it into Lottie’s character was perfect. I don’t think it was overplayed and I think it played a huge role in Lottie’s journey. It caused her to run away and sabotage her happiness. Having kids is a HUGE part of life and it’s a very possible dealbreaker when one can’t give that to their partner. And I think since Lottie felt so much heartbreak because of her diagnosis it was easy for her to be the one to break her own heart than someone else! I also liked how the author made the sister so against Lottie’s decision to get a hysterectomy! I’m sure women that are faced with the same decision as Lottie’s have similar reactions from their loved ones and I liked how Lottie stood up for herself and told her sister off!
Knox’s story was just as heartbreaking. It makes me so mad that his mom played the victim for so long and lied to him his entire life about his dad. I’m so glad that he had the chance to learn the truth and that he got to know his dad through other people and through his journals, but it’s so sad that it happened after Walter had died! Knox was a stable, more mature despite his age, and very persistent with Lottie and I think that’s what she needed!
Lottie and Knox were meant to be involved with each other whether it was a business partnership or intimately, but Walter somehow knew either way they needed each other! I think my favorite part of the book is when Knox shows Lottie the journal entries about her. It somehow just brought the whole story together!
The spice level on this one was 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ and it happened quick, regardless of the age gap! And those are my favorite types of books!
This was a great read and I’m so thankful I got to read this ARC! Thank you Caroline!
I give this one 5 ⭐️’s!
I received this book as an ARC and I’m so happy that I did! It was such a great book! That could be because it was a book about books and love, or because the author just had a way of drawing you in with her writing style. Probably both for me!
Lottie’s story is a sad one but an inspiring one. I looovveeee the name Lottie! Everytime I hear it, it reminds me of Phantom of The Opera (Little Lottie) and that’s one of my favorite movies! I had friends that have either PCOS or Endometriosis but never both so to see what these two can do to a person together is heartbreaking. And the way that the author put it into Lottie’s character was perfect. I don’t think it was overplayed and I think it played a huge role in Lottie’s journey. It caused her to run away and sabotage her happiness. Having kids is a HUGE part of life and it’s a very possible dealbreaker when one can’t give that to their partner. And I think since Lottie felt so much heartbreak because of her diagnosis it was easy for her to be the one to break her own heart than someone else! I also liked how the author made the sister so against Lottie’s decision to get a hysterectomy! I’m sure women that are faced with the same decision as Lottie’s have similar reactions from their loved ones and I liked how Lottie stood up for herself and told her sister off!
Knox’s story was just as heartbreaking. It makes me so mad that his mom played the victim for so long and lied to him his entire life about his dad. I’m so glad that he had the chance to learn the truth and that he got to know his dad through other people and through his journals, but it’s so sad that it happened after Walter had died! Knox was a stable, more mature despite his age, and very persistent with Lottie and I think that’s what she needed!
Lottie and Knox were meant to be involved with each other whether it was a business partnership or intimately, but Walter somehow knew either way they needed each other! I think my favorite part of the book is when Knox shows Lottie the journal entries about her. It somehow just brought the whole story together!
The spice level on this one was 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️ and it happened quick, regardless of the age gap! And those are my favorite types of books!
This was a great read and I’m so thankful I got to read this ARC! Thank you Caroline!
I give this one 5 ⭐️’s!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This book felt like a breath of fresh air. Lottie and Knox, though undoubtedly perfect for one another, each bring a lot of baggage to their relationship. While every good romance needs some obstacles to overcome, I felt like the troubles presented in this story seemed more relatable than some other books. My favourite thing about the FMC, Lottie, is the fact that she remains 100% true to herself. She suffers from PCOS and endometriosis and, consequently, infertility. Of course, we are meeting Lottie post-breakdown, but I still found her character to be super empowering due to her ability to know herself so thoroughly. I think it is so common for people to give up parts of themselves to appease others in their lives and I found it really brave of Lottie to know her non-negotiables and choose herself over love. Lottie's character holds a lot of representation power in this story and I am so glad that the end of this book did not end in a miracle baby because it just isn't real life! Another large part of this book is the age gap trope, but SHE is older! I actually can't say I have read a book with these roles, as it is usually reversed, but I don't know that I necessarily liked it (lol). I think, in my head, the older woman would just always have a mother-ing role in the man's life and that just gives me an ick (lol again). I mean, it was written great and I think it made a lot of sense in this story, considering Lottie's life experience and health issues, it makes sense for her to worry about Knox possibly wanting different things from life in a few years time, but yeah! The thought of the age gap in my mind just wasn't my favourite. Finally, I loved the additional background characters and the weight they held, as well as the setting of it all. The small town gave me Stars Hollow vibes, with everybody in everyone's business and the overall sense of community. I just wish Walter felt more a part of that community, I wish it felt like he had friends within the town that he confided in, and not just those afar. But, I think Walter's story and his role in everything was tied up beautifully in the end - and can we all agree that Knox's mom is the worst?
Review of advance copy received from Author
📖 ARC REVIEW 📖
Thank you @carolinefrankwrites for an early copy of One Last Thing Before You Go. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. 🤍
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐/5
Release date: February 10th, 2026
🛑Read on with caution; review may contain spoilers🛑
The moment I learned that One Last Thing Before You Go features an FMC living with endometriosis and PCOS, I knew I wanted to read it, there simply aren’t enough romances that center stories like this, and I appreciated seeing that kind of representation on the page.
That said, the story was quite slow to get going. I found the initial pacing draggy, and I struggled with both MCs early on. While they do sleep together within hours of meeting, a lot of the narrative fixates on how physically attracted they are to each other, to the point where their constant horniness felt like it drowned out other, more meaningful aspects of the story.
Things did improve once the book shifted its focus beyond their relationship and allowed us to see who Lottie and Knox are as individuals. While I wasn’t a fan of how emotionally distant Lottie keeps herself from Knox because of her condition, I did admire her resilience. She’s headstrong, determined, and tries to view her circumstances through a different lens despite everything she’s endured.
Knox, on the other hand, was the character I became more invested in as the story went on. He initially came across as immature, but considering his upbringing and the revelations about his father, his growth made sense. Over time, his genuine care, especially toward Lottie, stood out.
Unfortunately, their romance never fully clicked for me. Their chemistry felt more told than shown, and I think the story could have benefited from being a bit shorter and more tightly paced.
Overall, while this wasn’t a standout read for me, I appreciated what the book was trying to do. It’s an okay romance with meaningful representation, even if the execution didn’t fully land for me.
Thank you @carolinefrankwrites for an early copy of One Last Thing Before You Go. I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily. 🤍
Rating: ⭐⭐⭐/5
Release date: February 10th, 2026
🛑Read on with caution; review may contain spoilers🛑
The moment I learned that One Last Thing Before You Go features an FMC living with endometriosis and PCOS, I knew I wanted to read it, there simply aren’t enough romances that center stories like this, and I appreciated seeing that kind of representation on the page.
That said, the story was quite slow to get going. I found the initial pacing draggy, and I struggled with both MCs early on. While they do sleep together within hours of meeting, a lot of the narrative fixates on how physically attracted they are to each other, to the point where their constant horniness felt like it drowned out other, more meaningful aspects of the story.
Things did improve once the book shifted its focus beyond their relationship and allowed us to see who Lottie and Knox are as individuals. While I wasn’t a fan of how emotionally distant Lottie keeps herself from Knox because of her condition, I did admire her resilience. She’s headstrong, determined, and tries to view her circumstances through a different lens despite everything she’s endured.
Knox, on the other hand, was the character I became more invested in as the story went on. He initially came across as immature, but considering his upbringing and the revelations about his father, his growth made sense. Over time, his genuine care, especially toward Lottie, stood out.
Unfortunately, their romance never fully clicked for me. Their chemistry felt more told than shown, and I think the story could have benefited from being a bit shorter and more tightly paced.
Overall, while this wasn’t a standout read for me, I appreciated what the book was trying to do. It’s an okay romance with meaningful representation, even if the execution didn’t fully land for me.
February 7, 2026
Carlotta “Lottie” Veracruz is living in her small hometown running the local bookstore. But this was never her dream or her plan and she definitely wasn’t planning on staying in Ceres Cove.
Lennox “Knox” Riddick never stays anywhere too long as a freelance photographer and inheriting part of his father’s bookstore (yes the same one that Lottie helps run) after he dies certainly wasn’t on his bucket list. As they work together to renovate it and sell it, attraction between them ultimately starts to grow. But so does Lottie’s fear that her infertility makes her impossible to love.
First of all, Knox?? Quiet, observant, notices the little things and is absolutely gone for Lottie. Instant swoon! Their banter felt natural, the chemistry was there, and the emotional moments really worked for me. Ultimate book boyfriend behavior!
I think what really kept me engaged though was Lottie’s journey. The conversations around imfertility, PCOS, and Endometriosis were real, raw, and shockingly personal. There’s a moment where Lottie’s sister inserts herself into a deeply personal medical decision, and I was furious while reading it. Why is it so hard for people to accept that someone knows what’s best for their own body? Lottie had made peace with the reality of her endometriosis and PCOS, yet people still projected their idea of what a “perfect life” looks like because they would’ve chosen differently. I saw myself in those moments more than I expected to. As a 26 year old woman preparing for a hysterectomy myself, I’ve accepted my future, and I also know there will always be people who think I’m “too young” to make such a big decision. This book captured this frustration I’ve had perfectly. I felt like I was reading parts of my life.
I did think it was a little long in places, but the emotional depth, the yearning, the sibling and family dynamics, and the way Caroline tackled heavy topics without losing the romance made it such a worthwhile read.
Thank you Caroline for the early copy of your book! It was a pleasure to read ♡
Lennox “Knox” Riddick never stays anywhere too long as a freelance photographer and inheriting part of his father’s bookstore (yes the same one that Lottie helps run) after he dies certainly wasn’t on his bucket list. As they work together to renovate it and sell it, attraction between them ultimately starts to grow. But so does Lottie’s fear that her infertility makes her impossible to love.
First of all, Knox?? Quiet, observant, notices the little things and is absolutely gone for Lottie. Instant swoon! Their banter felt natural, the chemistry was there, and the emotional moments really worked for me. Ultimate book boyfriend behavior!
I think what really kept me engaged though was Lottie’s journey. The conversations around imfertility, PCOS, and Endometriosis were real, raw, and shockingly personal. There’s a moment where Lottie’s sister inserts herself into a deeply personal medical decision, and I was furious while reading it. Why is it so hard for people to accept that someone knows what’s best for their own body? Lottie had made peace with the reality of her endometriosis and PCOS, yet people still projected their idea of what a “perfect life” looks like because they would’ve chosen differently. I saw myself in those moments more than I expected to. As a 26 year old woman preparing for a hysterectomy myself, I’ve accepted my future, and I also know there will always be people who think I’m “too young” to make such a big decision. This book captured this frustration I’ve had perfectly. I felt like I was reading parts of my life.
I did think it was a little long in places, but the emotional depth, the yearning, the sibling and family dynamics, and the way Caroline tackled heavy topics without losing the romance made it such a worthwhile read.
Thank you Caroline for the early copy of your book! It was a pleasure to read ♡
Review of advance copy received from Author
𝐁𝐨𝐨𝐤: One Last Thing Before You Go (ARC)
𝐌𝐲 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
Bookstore Romance
Age gap (7 years. She’s older)
Latino FMC
One night stand
Forced Proximity
PCOS & Endo Rep
👀 𝐌𝐲 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧
I’ll start by saying that I actually began writing this review the second I got my ARC (huge thanks to Caroline Frank for that!). 🥹💕🫶🏻
«I wanna pull out my camera and capture them-capture her and this moment.»
«In just a few minutes, she's become the center of every-thing, and I'm wrapped up in every single word that comes out of her mouth.»
First off, I was totally blown away by the writing style. It’s so light and smooth—you really get sucked into it with every page instead of having to trudge through the text. Plus, the way the author captures the characters' emotions is incredible (and I don’t say that often). 👀 Even though I couldn't always relate to Carlota personally since I’ve never been in her shoes, the author made me feel everything she was going through—the regret, the insecurity, and that nervous excitement about a starting a new relationship. ☹️🫂
And I am officially obsessed with Knox! 🫦 He literally fell in love at first sight (I could totally feel it!!), wasted zero time, and started pursuing Lottie no matter the cost.
But there was one thing that really threw me off: the characters caught feelings for each other way too fast. They’d only known each other for two hours—barely knew each other's names—and were already practically head over heels. For me, the pacing of the romance felt a bit rushed. ☹️
Aside from that, I absolutely fell in love with the characters. I was literally laughing one minute and crying the next; I felt for them and was rooting for them the whole way. Even if this book doesn't end up being an all-time favorite, it was definitely worth the time.
Thanks again to the author for believing in me and sending over this ARC! 🥹🩷
𝐌𝐲 𝐫𝐚𝐭𝐢𝐧𝐠: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️/5
𝐓𝐫𝐨𝐩𝐞𝐬:
Bookstore Romance
Age gap (7 years. She’s older)
Latino FMC
One night stand
Forced Proximity
PCOS & Endo Rep
👀 𝐌𝐲 𝐢𝐦𝐩𝐫𝐞𝐬𝐬𝐢𝐨𝐧
I’ll start by saying that I actually began writing this review the second I got my ARC (huge thanks to Caroline Frank for that!). 🥹💕🫶🏻
«I wanna pull out my camera and capture them-capture her and this moment.»
«In just a few minutes, she's become the center of every-thing, and I'm wrapped up in every single word that comes out of her mouth.»
First off, I was totally blown away by the writing style. It’s so light and smooth—you really get sucked into it with every page instead of having to trudge through the text. Plus, the way the author captures the characters' emotions is incredible (and I don’t say that often). 👀 Even though I couldn't always relate to Carlota personally since I’ve never been in her shoes, the author made me feel everything she was going through—the regret, the insecurity, and that nervous excitement about a starting a new relationship. ☹️🫂
And I am officially obsessed with Knox! 🫦 He literally fell in love at first sight (I could totally feel it!!), wasted zero time, and started pursuing Lottie no matter the cost.
But there was one thing that really threw me off: the characters caught feelings for each other way too fast. They’d only known each other for two hours—barely knew each other's names—and were already practically head over heels. For me, the pacing of the romance felt a bit rushed. ☹️
Aside from that, I absolutely fell in love with the characters. I was literally laughing one minute and crying the next; I felt for them and was rooting for them the whole way. Even if this book doesn't end up being an all-time favorite, it was definitely worth the time.
Thanks again to the author for believing in me and sending over this ARC! 🥹🩷
January 18, 2026
The story follows Lottie and Knox, who meet at a bar and immediately feel an undeniable spark. That chemistry leads them back to Knox’s hotel room, and for Lottie, it’s meant to be nothing more than a one-night stand. Fate, however, has other plans. Just days later, they’re unexpectedly reunited when they both inherit a bookstore.
Lottie is a strong, complex woman trying to rebuild her life after a divorce while grappling with the reality that she’ll never be able to have children. I completely understood her instinct to keep Knox at arm’s length. On one hand, she’s protecting her heart; on the other, she wants Knox to be happy and not regret choosing her. The book beautifully captures this internal conflict - wanting to do what’s best while not always knowing what that is. To someone who hasn’t lived through something similar, Lottie’s hot-and-cold behavior might seem frustrating, but it’s a very real reflection of living with PCOS (and other chronic illnesses). In that way, the story offers thoughtful and authentic representation of PCOS and endometriosis while bringing much needed awareness to these experiences.
Then there’s Knox, who is completely head over heels for Lottie. He’s so captivated by her that he’d do anything to make her happy. While he does get frustrated at times when she puts up her walls, he consistently tries to be patient, understanding, and respectful of her boundaries. Ultimately, that’s what an ideal partner looks like, and Knox embodies it perfectly. He’s kind, emotionally attentive, and deeply respectful. (And can we talk about the scene where he goes out to buy tampons and comes back with a mountain of snacks? Tots heart-eyes.) Knox truly represents the idea that “to be loved is to be seen.”
I really enjoyed this book, especially because it includes PCOS representation, something I’ve never encountered in a novel before. It also explores grief and acknowledges that everyone experiences it differently. I’m always drawn to stories that handle grief with care and depth, and this book did that beautifully.
Lottie is a strong, complex woman trying to rebuild her life after a divorce while grappling with the reality that she’ll never be able to have children. I completely understood her instinct to keep Knox at arm’s length. On one hand, she’s protecting her heart; on the other, she wants Knox to be happy and not regret choosing her. The book beautifully captures this internal conflict - wanting to do what’s best while not always knowing what that is. To someone who hasn’t lived through something similar, Lottie’s hot-and-cold behavior might seem frustrating, but it’s a very real reflection of living with PCOS (and other chronic illnesses). In that way, the story offers thoughtful and authentic representation of PCOS and endometriosis while bringing much needed awareness to these experiences.
Then there’s Knox, who is completely head over heels for Lottie. He’s so captivated by her that he’d do anything to make her happy. While he does get frustrated at times when she puts up her walls, he consistently tries to be patient, understanding, and respectful of her boundaries. Ultimately, that’s what an ideal partner looks like, and Knox embodies it perfectly. He’s kind, emotionally attentive, and deeply respectful. (And can we talk about the scene where he goes out to buy tampons and comes back with a mountain of snacks? Tots heart-eyes.) Knox truly represents the idea that “to be loved is to be seen.”
I really enjoyed this book, especially because it includes PCOS representation, something I’ve never encountered in a novel before. It also explores grief and acknowledges that everyone experiences it differently. I’m always drawn to stories that handle grief with care and depth, and this book did that beautifully.
Review of advance copy received from Author
One Last Thing Before You Go
By Caroline Frank
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
One Last Thing Before You Go by Caroline Frank is an absolute treasure that I couldn’t put down! This story is a beautiful, heart-tugging journey that manages to be both deeply moving and incredibly uplifting. Frank has a magical way of capturing the complexities of human connection, and I found myself cheering for the characters from the very first chapter. It’s one of those rare books that stays with you long after the final page, leaving you with a renewed sense of hope and a very full heart.
I was completely swept away by the chemistry between Lottie and Knox. Lottie Veracruz is such a relatable and resilient character; watching her navigate the heartbreak of her past while trying to reclaim her spark in her small hometown was truly inspiring. Then there’s Knox Riddick, the charming freelance photographer who unexpectedly enters her life. His "grumpy yet soft" energy and the way he slowly lets his guard down around Lottie made him the perfect counterpart to her journey. Their forced proximity while fixing up a bookstore created the kind of tension that kept me turning pages late into the night!
The emotional depth of the writing is perfectly balanced by moments of genuine warmth and charm. I loved the way the narrative unfolded, revealing layers of love, second chances, and the fear of vulnerability that felt so authentic. If you are looking for a story that will make you smile through your tears and remind you of the beauty in every "last thing," this is a must-read for your 2026 TBR list! I’ll be recommending this one to everyone I know.
10/10 Would recommend this book to all family and friends.
By Caroline Frank
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
One Last Thing Before You Go by Caroline Frank is an absolute treasure that I couldn’t put down! This story is a beautiful, heart-tugging journey that manages to be both deeply moving and incredibly uplifting. Frank has a magical way of capturing the complexities of human connection, and I found myself cheering for the characters from the very first chapter. It’s one of those rare books that stays with you long after the final page, leaving you with a renewed sense of hope and a very full heart.
I was completely swept away by the chemistry between Lottie and Knox. Lottie Veracruz is such a relatable and resilient character; watching her navigate the heartbreak of her past while trying to reclaim her spark in her small hometown was truly inspiring. Then there’s Knox Riddick, the charming freelance photographer who unexpectedly enters her life. His "grumpy yet soft" energy and the way he slowly lets his guard down around Lottie made him the perfect counterpart to her journey. Their forced proximity while fixing up a bookstore created the kind of tension that kept me turning pages late into the night!
The emotional depth of the writing is perfectly balanced by moments of genuine warmth and charm. I loved the way the narrative unfolded, revealing layers of love, second chances, and the fear of vulnerability that felt so authentic. If you are looking for a story that will make you smile through your tears and remind you of the beauty in every "last thing," this is a must-read for your 2026 TBR list! I’ll be recommending this one to everyone I know.
10/10 Would recommend this book to all family and friends.
Review of advance copy received from Author
One Last Thing Before You Go was my first book by Caroline Frank, and it absolutely won’t be my last. I loved this story, even though it put me through the full emotional wringer. Lottie and Knox were easy to root for, though there were moments when Lottie’s choices genuinely frustrated me, but the deeper we learned about her past relationship and the trauma she carried, the more her insecurities and self-doubt made sense. The lasting damage to her self-worth felt painfully realistic. Knox, despite being the younger of the two, brought a level of emotional maturity that grounded their relationship and helped Lottie begin to see herself differently, and in turn, they both grew in meaningful ways. I especially appreciated how the book handled grief in its many forms, as well as its thoughtful representation of endometriosis and PCOS, showing that people with these conditions are not a monolith and that their impacts can look very different from person to person. While the third-act breakup didn’t fully work for me, particularly because it stemmed from Lottie sabotaging her own happiness, I do understand that it was part of her journey toward recognizing her worth. There were also moments where Knox’s mother tested my patience, but overall, the emotional payoff was strong. This is a tender, sometimes frustrating, but ultimately rewarding story about healing, growth, and choosing yourself.
January 19, 2026
I had the opportunity to read this book early and just wow. Caroline is such an incredible writer. She definitely had me going through many emotions while reading. I even cried twice 😭 Here are some things I enjoyed:
-Love the pcsos/endo representation.
-Love how even though Lottie wanted to keep it casual, Knox respected her boundaries but was still completely obsessed with her.
-It was very interesting to see the relationship between Knox and his father. I am very happy he got all the information he needed and grew to love his Dad very much.
-Lottie baby girl…all she deserved was happiness and even though it took her a long time to realize it, I am glad she finally did.
-When Knox came over to help Lottie while she was on her period, I literally almost cried. To be taken care of like that is something not many do and it was very sweet to see.
I found the break-up to be very painful. First, I absolutely cried for like two minutes when Knox realized she left him and was like I’m done. I can’t be here anymore. Way to rip my heart out, Caroline! You can just feel what he was going through and he was just so heartbroken. That was very inconsiderate of her and Knox did not deserve that. I also think 9 months was waaaayy too long for a 3rd act breakup but I guess it is what the characters needed. It was also frustrating to read what Knox’s mom did to him.
I really enjoyed this book, it has the right amount of spice, love, heartbreak, and so much more love.
-Love the pcsos/endo representation.
-Love how even though Lottie wanted to keep it casual, Knox respected her boundaries but was still completely obsessed with her.
-It was very interesting to see the relationship between Knox and his father. I am very happy he got all the information he needed and grew to love his Dad very much.
-Lottie baby girl…all she deserved was happiness and even though it took her a long time to realize it, I am glad she finally did.
-When Knox came over to help Lottie while she was on her period, I literally almost cried. To be taken care of like that is something not many do and it was very sweet to see.
I found the break-up to be very painful. First, I absolutely cried for like two minutes when Knox realized she left him and was like I’m done. I can’t be here anymore. Way to rip my heart out, Caroline! You can just feel what he was going through and he was just so heartbroken. That was very inconsiderate of her and Knox did not deserve that. I also think 9 months was waaaayy too long for a 3rd act breakup but I guess it is what the characters needed. It was also frustrating to read what Knox’s mom did to him.
I really enjoyed this book, it has the right amount of spice, love, heartbreak, and so much more love.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
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