What do you think?
Rate this book
Secretly Yours
Could you really call someone the “one who got away” if she was never yours to begin with?
In high school, Sabrina and I were “extra friends,” a nicer way of saying friends who’d hook up with each other in between relationships with no strings attached.
Too bad I ruined our arrangement by catching real feelings—feelings that terrified me enough to cut off a good friend because I was too scared I’d slip and admit I loved her.
Years later we’re reunited at our twentieth high school reunion, both fresh from brutal divorces. Determined to keep the reignited connection, we fall into an easy friendship, this time without the “extra.” Surely, at almost forty I can keep my feelings to myself. Right?
Spoiler I can’t.
Especially when I volunteer to be her date at her niece’s wedding to keep her family off her back and up the ante by offering to be her fake boyfriend too.
Touching comes too easy, along with heated kisses that were supposed to only be for show. Playing pretend turns into the best night of my life, and the worst one at the same time.
Because, just like in the past, I don’t know how to be just her friend when I’ve always been secretly hers.
Secretly Yours is a 27,000 word standalone novella. It's a companion to the novel Second Times the Charm but can be enjoyed on its own.
In high school, Sabrina and I were “extra friends,” a nicer way of saying friends who’d hook up with each other in between relationships with no strings attached.
Too bad I ruined our arrangement by catching real feelings—feelings that terrified me enough to cut off a good friend because I was too scared I’d slip and admit I loved her.
Years later we’re reunited at our twentieth high school reunion, both fresh from brutal divorces. Determined to keep the reignited connection, we fall into an easy friendship, this time without the “extra.” Surely, at almost forty I can keep my feelings to myself. Right?
Spoiler I can’t.
Especially when I volunteer to be her date at her niece’s wedding to keep her family off her back and up the ante by offering to be her fake boyfriend too.
Touching comes too easy, along with heated kisses that were supposed to only be for show. Playing pretend turns into the best night of my life, and the worst one at the same time.
Because, just like in the past, I don’t know how to be just her friend when I’ve always been secretly hers.
Secretly Yours is a 27,000 word standalone novella. It's a companion to the novel Second Times the Charm but can be enjoyed on its own.
110 pages, Kindle Edition
Published December 26, 2025
46 people are currently reading
65 people want to read
About the author
Stephanie Rose
30 books2,946 followersStephanie Rose is a badass New Yorker, a wife, a mother, and lover of all things chocolate. Most days you'll find her trying to avoid standing on discarded LEGO or deciding which book to read next. Her debut novel, Always You, released in 2015 and since then she's written several more—some of which will never see completion—and has ideas for hundreds to come.
Ratings & Reviews
Friends & Following
Create a free account to discover what your friends think of this book!
Community Reviews
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews
December 25, 2025
4 Star Review Secretly Yours by Stephanie Rose
eBook/Audio
Although not a particularly long read/listen Ms. Rose packed a lot onto the story.
Narrated by Connor Crais and Stella Hunter who brought all the passion, emotion, drama and humor to life with their performances. They did a fabulous job bringing the story and characters to life. Their voices are easy to listen to and did justice to the story that the authors wove.
This was an entertaining second chance at love story for Caden and Sabrina that ticked numerous boxes for me.
eBook/Audio
Although not a particularly long read/listen Ms. Rose packed a lot onto the story.
Narrated by Connor Crais and Stella Hunter who brought all the passion, emotion, drama and humor to life with their performances. They did a fabulous job bringing the story and characters to life. Their voices are easy to listen to and did justice to the story that the authors wove.
This was an entertaining second chance at love story for Caden and Sabrina that ticked numerous boxes for me.
December 5, 2025
Sabrina & Caden were friends with “extras” in high school but went their separate ways. When they see each other again at their high school reunion can they maybe rekindle what they once had and make it forever? A sweet, second chance novella based before the book second times a charm. The perfect accompaniment novella and follows the friends from that book. Told in first person and dual POV.
January 4, 2026
I love a second chance and this story packs all the swoons as our hero is going to secure their HEA.
Caden-Man oh Man what can I say about this adorable, kind, thoughtful, big hearted hero. He is the cinnamonist smart golden retriever you'll meet.
Oh the pining. I love pinning when you can feel the almost spill it without the excessive angst. This book is it. Sabrina has become more careful as she grows up. With her story in-between their before and after, it's no wonder. Heroine you can relate to her reticence. As do you with Caden's. Readers get to see them grow into friends before acknowledging the spark. This is a fun-filled story full of swoons and sighs you'll gobble right up.
Connor Crais and Stella Hunter deliver a fantastic performance as Sabrina and Caden figure out that Childhood Friends with Benefits is really where their heart belonged all along.
Caden-Man oh Man what can I say about this adorable, kind, thoughtful, big hearted hero. He is the cinnamonist smart golden retriever you'll meet.
Oh the pining. I love pinning when you can feel the almost spill it without the excessive angst. This book is it. Sabrina has become more careful as she grows up. With her story in-between their before and after, it's no wonder. Heroine you can relate to her reticence. As do you with Caden's. Readers get to see them grow into friends before acknowledging the spark. This is a fun-filled story full of swoons and sighs you'll gobble right up.
Connor Crais and Stella Hunter deliver a fantastic performance as Sabrina and Caden figure out that Childhood Friends with Benefits is really where their heart belonged all along.
December 27, 2025
Quick, mature fake dating romance 🥰
January 1, 2026
They were friends in HS that occasionally added benefits in the bedroom. He fell HARDDDDDD for her but never got up the nerve to tell her then. When their best friends broke up they ended up losing touch.
Then they all four attend their HS reunion. Their best friends leave together and work their issues out. These two opt to exchange numbers and continue re-kindling their friendship.
They are seriously so much fun together! I really really enjoyed this story of the guy pining for years and not being able to read the girl 🥰
This beautiful story was narrated by Stella Hunter and Connor Crais who were literally perfect for these characters!
Then they all four attend their HS reunion. Their best friends leave together and work their issues out. These two opt to exchange numbers and continue re-kindling their friendship.
They are seriously so much fun together! I really really enjoyed this story of the guy pining for years and not being able to read the girl 🥰
This beautiful story was narrated by Stella Hunter and Connor Crais who were literally perfect for these characters!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Secretly Yours by Stephanie Rose is such a beautiful second chance romance with heartwarming feels and sizzling hot chemistry! It might be a novella but the feels were not short in supply. Caden and Sabrina made me swoon so hard!
❤️ second chance romance
❤️ friends to lovers
❤️ fake relationship
❤️ friends with "benefits"
❤️ only one bed
❤️ standalone novella
❤️ contemporary romance
Caden and Sabrina met after 20 years in their high school reunion. They used to be closest friends with spicy benefits. Caden fell for her but Sabrina didn’t know it because he kept it secret, in fear of losing her. They lost contact but the reunion proved that Caden still feels strongly for her and he knows he cannot let it go. He volunteers to be her fake boyfriend in the upcoming wedding of her niece but may be Sabrina also feels that its not so fake.
Both the characters are in their late 30s and I loved the maturity and knowledge they bring to the story. Both are divorced and have been cheated on. Both are a bit skeptical about love but Caden is a bit more open. Specially because its Sabrina. I love how charming and witty he is. A perfect gentleman. Who doesn't love a hero pining for his woman? He has always been her escape, her support, her safe place...and the present time is no exception. My heart was beating fast because I was not sure if he can keep his emotions under wrap and I didn't want him to! He deserves every single thing including his real love! Sabrina is so sweet and sassy. She is independent and classy and fierce. The divorce might have made her skeptical but it didn't break her spirit. The wedding created the perfect setting for them to come closer. The chemistry was building and building and then it just exploded . Sabrina opened up her heart for true love. It was a sweet and spicy snack for every romance reader.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
❤️ second chance romance
❤️ friends to lovers
❤️ fake relationship
❤️ friends with "benefits"
❤️ only one bed
❤️ standalone novella
❤️ contemporary romance
Caden and Sabrina met after 20 years in their high school reunion. They used to be closest friends with spicy benefits. Caden fell for her but Sabrina didn’t know it because he kept it secret, in fear of losing her. They lost contact but the reunion proved that Caden still feels strongly for her and he knows he cannot let it go. He volunteers to be her fake boyfriend in the upcoming wedding of her niece but may be Sabrina also feels that its not so fake.
Both the characters are in their late 30s and I loved the maturity and knowledge they bring to the story. Both are divorced and have been cheated on. Both are a bit skeptical about love but Caden is a bit more open. Specially because its Sabrina. I love how charming and witty he is. A perfect gentleman. Who doesn't love a hero pining for his woman? He has always been her escape, her support, her safe place...and the present time is no exception. My heart was beating fast because I was not sure if he can keep his emotions under wrap and I didn't want him to! He deserves every single thing including his real love! Sabrina is so sweet and sassy. She is independent and classy and fierce. The divorce might have made her skeptical but it didn't break her spirit. The wedding created the perfect setting for them to come closer. The chemistry was building and building and then it just exploded . Sabrina opened up her heart for true love. It was a sweet and spicy snack for every romance reader.
I reviewed an early copy voluntarily
December 31, 2025
🎧⭐️ALC Review⭐️🎧
Overall Thoughts: This was such a cute little novella, and perfect for listening this time of year. Stephanie is a new author to me, but I had the privilege of meeting her at IIP this past November, and she was absolutely lovely. Since I listen to so much dark romance, this was a nice reprieve that let me just enjoy a romance that gave me the warm cuddly feelings you want around the holidays. Stella and Connor were a great pair for these characters, and they played off each other and really brought the story to life. I look forward to listening to more of Stephanies books next year.
Narration: Duet, first-person present tense, dual-POV with flashbacks/memories
Tropes: Second chance, friends to lovers, past hook up buddies, both divorced, HS reunion, fake dating, one bed, close proximity, he falls first, just one night
Overall: 4.5 ❤️
Spice: 2.5 🌶️
Humor: 2.5 😂
Drama: 2.5 🎭
Darkness: 1.5 🖤
Narration: 5 🎧
Caden offers to help his friend “reconnect” with his ex-girlfriend at their 20-year high school reunion, but Caden has ulterior motives, like getting the chance to talk to Sabrina. When these two reconnect it’s like their old chemistry comes back to life.
When Sabrina needs a date to her niece’s wedding to keep her family off her back, Caden offers to be her plus one, and later Sabrina asks him to pretend to be her fake boyfriend. Caden is instantly onboard, knowing he will get to touch and kiss her, while Sabrina will think it is just him playing the role.
When Sabrina asks for one night of fun in the sheets, Caden knows he can’t say no, but he also knows that this isn’t pretend for him either. Can he keep his feelings hidden or will he risk it all for a chance at getting the HEA they both always wanted.
Overall Thoughts: This was such a cute little novella, and perfect for listening this time of year. Stephanie is a new author to me, but I had the privilege of meeting her at IIP this past November, and she was absolutely lovely. Since I listen to so much dark romance, this was a nice reprieve that let me just enjoy a romance that gave me the warm cuddly feelings you want around the holidays. Stella and Connor were a great pair for these characters, and they played off each other and really brought the story to life. I look forward to listening to more of Stephanies books next year.
Narration: Duet, first-person present tense, dual-POV with flashbacks/memories
Tropes: Second chance, friends to lovers, past hook up buddies, both divorced, HS reunion, fake dating, one bed, close proximity, he falls first, just one night
Overall: 4.5 ❤️
Spice: 2.5 🌶️
Humor: 2.5 😂
Drama: 2.5 🎭
Darkness: 1.5 🖤
Narration: 5 🎧
Caden offers to help his friend “reconnect” with his ex-girlfriend at their 20-year high school reunion, but Caden has ulterior motives, like getting the chance to talk to Sabrina. When these two reconnect it’s like their old chemistry comes back to life.
When Sabrina needs a date to her niece’s wedding to keep her family off her back, Caden offers to be her plus one, and later Sabrina asks him to pretend to be her fake boyfriend. Caden is instantly onboard, knowing he will get to touch and kiss her, while Sabrina will think it is just him playing the role.
When Sabrina asks for one night of fun in the sheets, Caden knows he can’t say no, but he also knows that this isn’t pretend for him either. Can he keep his feelings hidden or will he risk it all for a chance at getting the HEA they both always wanted.
December 6, 2025
I loved this delightful 'second chance at love' romance! This is Caden and Sabrina's story after first meeting them in Stephanie Rose's 'Second Time's the Charm', which I absolutely loved as well. Caden and Sabrina were friends with benefits during high school. They really felt a strong connection, being there for each other when needed. But it was never the right time for Caden to tell her that he loved her and wanted more. Now twenty years later they meet again at their high school reunion. They instantly feel their long ago connection, and spend the night catching up. They are both single after heartbreaking divorces and not ready to have a relationship, but want to stay connected. When Sabrina needs a fake date for her niece’s wedding, Caden is eager to go with her. As they put on a show for her family, Caden secret love for her grows stronger. When they are finally alone, will his desires drive her away, or has she had a secret as well? This novella gave me everything I needed, and I immediately felt connected to Caden and Sabrina. I loved their easy banter, tension, emotion, and heart. I was completely hooked and didn’t want to put it down. It was also fun seeing the reunion play out from a different point of view.
Connor Crais and Stella Hunter are absolutely irresistible as Caden and Sabrina. They gave fantastic performances, bringing out all the emotions, that really made this story even better. I loved every moment of this beautiful romance, wanting more, but was totally satisfied.
Connor Crais and Stella Hunter are absolutely irresistible as Caden and Sabrina. They gave fantastic performances, bringing out all the emotions, that really made this story even better. I loved every moment of this beautiful romance, wanting more, but was totally satisfied.
December 7, 2025
Secretly Yours
By Stephanie Rose
Narrated by Connor Crais, Stella Hunter
Fun! Fun! Fun! Having that first true love is a feeling that is irreplaceable. Caden loved Sabrina, though their friendship was based on being the best of friends with benefits. Admitting that would end everything. Once their best friends broke up, it seemed natural to grow apart. Now it's twenty years later and he is going to the reunion and seeing her is top on his list. Sabrina is happy to see him, and they easily fall into their easy friendship once again. So much so, Caden agrees to pretend to be her boyfriend for her niece's wedding. But where will it go from there? Will they find a way to transform to real feelings? Will each of their adult pasts get in their way of happiness? Stephanie Rose has penned a fabulous novella that is fun, quick and romantic. I loved the easy banter, the chemistry and the all around feel of this listen! Plus seeing Emily and Jesse from Second Time's a Charm was just icing on the cake! Loved this!
Connor Crais and Stella Hunter are fabulous together and with this book, I honestly could not stop listening. The smooth baritone from Crais is like a hug as he gives all the feels from teenager to forty year old. Sabrina is holding her own secret and Hunter pulls off the feels without releasing it too soon. She got into Sabrina's head and gave her exactly the right nuances to make her real. Love these two and this performance!
By Stephanie Rose
Narrated by Connor Crais, Stella Hunter
Fun! Fun! Fun! Having that first true love is a feeling that is irreplaceable. Caden loved Sabrina, though their friendship was based on being the best of friends with benefits. Admitting that would end everything. Once their best friends broke up, it seemed natural to grow apart. Now it's twenty years later and he is going to the reunion and seeing her is top on his list. Sabrina is happy to see him, and they easily fall into their easy friendship once again. So much so, Caden agrees to pretend to be her boyfriend for her niece's wedding. But where will it go from there? Will they find a way to transform to real feelings? Will each of their adult pasts get in their way of happiness? Stephanie Rose has penned a fabulous novella that is fun, quick and romantic. I loved the easy banter, the chemistry and the all around feel of this listen! Plus seeing Emily and Jesse from Second Time's a Charm was just icing on the cake! Loved this!
Connor Crais and Stella Hunter are fabulous together and with this book, I honestly could not stop listening. The smooth baritone from Crais is like a hug as he gives all the feels from teenager to forty year old. Sabrina is holding her own secret and Hunter pulls off the feels without releasing it too soon. She got into Sabrina's head and gave her exactly the right nuances to make her real. Love these two and this performance!
December 26, 2025
📚Secretly Yours by Stephanie Rose
🎤Connor Crais & Stella Hunter
DUET NARRATION
✨Happy Release Day✨
Audio Available Now
Thank you so much Stephanie for an advanced #gifted copy of the audiobook
Guys, if you haven't listened to one of Stephanie's books, you REALLY are missing out. Her books are comfort listens for me. She picks such great narrators & her MC's are a bit older which I really appreciate and love.
This novella was perfect. We met Caden & Sabrina in one of Stephanie's earlier books and I have been wondering what happened to them. Even though they are in another book, this absolutely can be listened to as a standalone. Fans of Stephanie will LOVE getting this story & find such satisfaction listening to what happens to these two.
What to expect:
💙Divorced MC's
💙Golden retriever energy
💙20 year high school reunion
💙One bed
💙Fake dating
💙She's always been the one
There's just something so satisfying about a second chance romance and this one is great! We get a quick glimpse of these two back in high school and how they were best friends with occasional benefits. When they see each other at their 20 year high school reunion, feelings quickly creep back in and they find themselves back into each other's arms.
🎤Let's talk audio: If you love pining and Connor growling😉 then don't miss this quick & satisfying listen. Stella & Connor are terrific and deliver BIG per usual. Their voices sound so great meshed together. I've been loving novellas lately and this has emotion, a backstory & some spice that's very nice! Make sure to fit this one in. It's quick but packs a punch.
🎤Connor Crais & Stella Hunter
DUET NARRATION
✨Happy Release Day✨
Audio Available Now
Thank you so much Stephanie for an advanced #gifted copy of the audiobook
Guys, if you haven't listened to one of Stephanie's books, you REALLY are missing out. Her books are comfort listens for me. She picks such great narrators & her MC's are a bit older which I really appreciate and love.
This novella was perfect. We met Caden & Sabrina in one of Stephanie's earlier books and I have been wondering what happened to them. Even though they are in another book, this absolutely can be listened to as a standalone. Fans of Stephanie will LOVE getting this story & find such satisfaction listening to what happens to these two.
What to expect:
💙Divorced MC's
💙Golden retriever energy
💙20 year high school reunion
💙One bed
💙Fake dating
💙She's always been the one
There's just something so satisfying about a second chance romance and this one is great! We get a quick glimpse of these two back in high school and how they were best friends with occasional benefits. When they see each other at their 20 year high school reunion, feelings quickly creep back in and they find themselves back into each other's arms.
🎤Let's talk audio: If you love pining and Connor growling😉 then don't miss this quick & satisfying listen. Stella & Connor are terrific and deliver BIG per usual. Their voices sound so great meshed together. I've been loving novellas lately and this has emotion, a backstory & some spice that's very nice! Make sure to fit this one in. It's quick but packs a punch.
January 5, 2026
This book has many of my favorite tropes: second chance, fake dating, he falls first, and only one bed. This novella by Stephanie Rose is a follow-up to her earlier book “Second Time’s The Charm,” where Caden and Sabrina were side characters.
Caden and Sabrina were high school friends with “benefits.” Caden had fallen in love with her but was afraid to admit it to her, fearing that it would ruin their friendship. They drifted apart after high school, after their best friends Jesse and Emily broke up. They reconnect at their 20-year reunion and quickly rekindle their friendship, but not the “benefits.” Caden still can’t find a way to tell Sabrina how he felt then and still feels now.
When Sabrina needs a +1 for her niece’s wedding, Caden immediately offers. She refuses at first, but after pressure from her sister, she relents, and Caden suggests they go as fake dates, thinking that would give him a reason to hold her close when they dance and kiss like they were really together. When her sister throws in a last-minute change of plans that requires them to spend the night at the hotel, they find themselves in the last room available, and it has one bed. How will they handle this?
This is a fun, quick read that I was so happy to have. Often, I wish there were a book about the side characters, and this was a great surprise! Definitely a 5⭐ read for me, and I recommend you add it to your TBR or download it now for your next weekend read!
Caden and Sabrina were high school friends with “benefits.” Caden had fallen in love with her but was afraid to admit it to her, fearing that it would ruin their friendship. They drifted apart after high school, after their best friends Jesse and Emily broke up. They reconnect at their 20-year reunion and quickly rekindle their friendship, but not the “benefits.” Caden still can’t find a way to tell Sabrina how he felt then and still feels now.
When Sabrina needs a +1 for her niece’s wedding, Caden immediately offers. She refuses at first, but after pressure from her sister, she relents, and Caden suggests they go as fake dates, thinking that would give him a reason to hold her close when they dance and kiss like they were really together. When her sister throws in a last-minute change of plans that requires them to spend the night at the hotel, they find themselves in the last room available, and it has one bed. How will they handle this?
This is a fun, quick read that I was so happy to have. Often, I wish there were a book about the side characters, and this was a great surprise! Definitely a 5⭐ read for me, and I recommend you add it to your TBR or download it now for your next weekend read!
December 26, 2025
This was my first listen from Stephanie Rose and I thoroughly enjoyed it. Secretly Yours is a sweet, satisfying second chance novella that I easily finished in one sitting.
The story follows high school best friends who reunite at their 20 year reunion, and it perfectly captures that mix of nostalgia, unresolved feelings and the comfort of falling back into something familiar. The second chance romance felt natural and heartfelt, with just the right amount of emotion for a shorter listen.
The audiobook narration was excellent. Stella Hunter and Connor Crais sound wonderful together, and their duet narration added depth and chemistry to the story. I’m always a fan of Stella and Connor together - Connor delivers his signature gravely tone and low growls that I feel through my body! Stella is true comfort in my ears and her tone and cadence is spot on!!
This was a fun, quick and spicy novella. A great choice if you’re looking for a short second chance romance with great narration.
Thank you to Stephanie Rose for the gifted ALC.
The story follows high school best friends who reunite at their 20 year reunion, and it perfectly captures that mix of nostalgia, unresolved feelings and the comfort of falling back into something familiar. The second chance romance felt natural and heartfelt, with just the right amount of emotion for a shorter listen.
The audiobook narration was excellent. Stella Hunter and Connor Crais sound wonderful together, and their duet narration added depth and chemistry to the story. I’m always a fan of Stella and Connor together - Connor delivers his signature gravely tone and low growls that I feel through my body! Stella is true comfort in my ears and her tone and cadence is spot on!!
This was a fun, quick and spicy novella. A great choice if you’re looking for a short second chance romance with great narration.
Thank you to Stephanie Rose for the gifted ALC.
January 2, 2026
Secretly Yours by Stephanie Rose is a novella that runs alongside the timeline in her novel Second Times a Charm. Caden and Sabrina were high school friends with benefits and though they had agreed it was casual Caden developed deeper feelings which he kept to himself. They reconnect at their 20th high school reunion, both dealing with the fallout from cheating spouses and divorces. They rekindle their friendship and Caden offers to be Sabrina’s date for a family wedding. Caden knows he doesn’t want to just be friends but will Sabrina’s feelings follow after they spend the night together? This is a sweet “second chance”, “secret boyfriend” and “he falls first”novella. These are many of my favorite tropes, so of course I loved it! Sabrina and Caden had really nice chemistry and some cute and funny banter. Even though this was short, I felt like the reader really got to know these characters. And while it does connect to Second Times a Charm, you can absolutely read Secretly Yours as a standalone!
December 8, 2025
#FriendsToLovers #Fake Relationship #SecondChance #Novella
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book. Written in first person from an alternating dual POV, this can be read as a standalone and ends with a HEA. Set in a concurrent timeline with Second Time’s a Charm, readers will want to read them both; I promise.
Caden and Sabrina (39) are both recovering from some pretty awful divorces when they meet back up at a high school reunion. Their friendship picks up and I loved how supportive they were of each other. Caden had such a fun personality. He is the guy who is up for anything. Sabrina is comfortable enough with him and I adored the fun they have together. It wasn’t long before they set aside their fears and pursue the chemistry that was always between them.
This was a quick, smexy read that gives both characters a second chance at love.
I am voluntarily leaving this honest review after receiving an advance reader copy of the book. Written in first person from an alternating dual POV, this can be read as a standalone and ends with a HEA. Set in a concurrent timeline with Second Time’s a Charm, readers will want to read them both; I promise.
Caden and Sabrina (39) are both recovering from some pretty awful divorces when they meet back up at a high school reunion. Their friendship picks up and I loved how supportive they were of each other. Caden had such a fun personality. He is the guy who is up for anything. Sabrina is comfortable enough with him and I adored the fun they have together. It wasn’t long before they set aside their fears and pursue the chemistry that was always between them.
This was a quick, smexy read that gives both characters a second chance at love.
December 9, 2025
Okay okay okay I need to start off with you REALLY should read second times the charm FIRST before you read this book. Now you don’t have to, you won’t be lost, but it just makes the story sooooooo much better ♥️promise. We fall in love with Sabrina and Caden in that book, because they help their best friends get there heads on straight and realize the loves of their lives or each other, and while all that whirlwind is going down we learn very fast that they aren’t the only ones rekindling a love long lost.
This is a short novella giving us the ending for Sabrina and Caden I didn’t know I needed but throughly enjoyed! And the narrators oooooo they just made it even better! Connor crais and Stella hunter brought these two to life and did not hold back!
This is a novella so it’s a short great read and I promise you will eat it up.
A fun take on young immiture love getting a second chance to really be something more. Not all high school reunions turn out terribly 😜
This is a short novella giving us the ending for Sabrina and Caden I didn’t know I needed but throughly enjoyed! And the narrators oooooo they just made it even better! Connor crais and Stella hunter brought these two to life and did not hold back!
This is a novella so it’s a short great read and I promise you will eat it up.
A fun take on young immiture love getting a second chance to really be something more. Not all high school reunions turn out terribly 😜
January 5, 2026
This is a little bit of a second chance romance for Sabrina and Caden.
Their mutual best friends - Emily & Jesse - dated all through high school, so Sabrina & Caden were good friends... best friends.... or as Sabrina coined the phrase - Extra Friends. They never dated each other in HS but they always hooked up whenever they were both single.
But... Caden never told anyone how deep his feelings for Sabrina really went. And now fate seems to have thrown them back together, after their 20th reunion, both divorced and a little jaded. Caden just has to decide whether this is a risk he's willing to take.
I thought he seemed a LOT more invested than she did - which is shown to be true in the epilogue. But dragging our heels or not, they did seem to be a true love match. It's a shame neither of them was brave enough to say the words in high school
Sweet Scale: 3/5
Spicy Scale: 3/5
Their mutual best friends - Emily & Jesse - dated all through high school, so Sabrina & Caden were good friends... best friends.... or as Sabrina coined the phrase - Extra Friends. They never dated each other in HS but they always hooked up whenever they were both single.
But... Caden never told anyone how deep his feelings for Sabrina really went. And now fate seems to have thrown them back together, after their 20th reunion, both divorced and a little jaded. Caden just has to decide whether this is a risk he's willing to take.
I thought he seemed a LOT more invested than she did - which is shown to be true in the epilogue. But dragging our heels or not, they did seem to be a true love match. It's a shame neither of them was brave enough to say the words in high school
Sweet Scale: 3/5
Spicy Scale: 3/5
December 8, 2025
How quickly can you fall in love with two characters that you were introduced to in another book?Fast! Really Fast! (don’t need to read that book to love this story)
Sometimes Novellas feel rushed, but not this one! The depth, back story and their growth was so well written that you were just surprised that you loved characters this quickly.
Caden and Sabrina, high school friends with benefits and a 20 year high school reunion equals instant Heat. They denied their feelings when young. But they surely didn’t go away and they found their way back to each other-their way! And lived their life- their way!
I was blessed ALC listener. And Connor Crais was phenomenal as Caden! All the feels! And the spice be spicing! The Perfect quick escape needed in this crazy life! Take a breather and dive into Secretly Yours! You won’t be disappointed
Sometimes Novellas feel rushed, but not this one! The depth, back story and their growth was so well written that you were just surprised that you loved characters this quickly.
Caden and Sabrina, high school friends with benefits and a 20 year high school reunion equals instant Heat. They denied their feelings when young. But they surely didn’t go away and they found their way back to each other-their way! And lived their life- their way!
I was blessed ALC listener. And Connor Crais was phenomenal as Caden! All the feels! And the spice be spicing! The Perfect quick escape needed in this crazy life! Take a breather and dive into Secretly Yours! You won’t be disappointed
Review of advance copy received from Author
Leave it to Stephanie Rose to give us a novella we did not know we needed. This second chance novella takes place before Second Times a Charm, and features couples in that book.
This is a quick read, but the authors packs quite a bit into the story.
Sabrina and Caden are attending their high school reunion with their best friends from high school. They were secret friends with benefits, and Caden had caught feeling, also kept a secret. He agrees to be a “fake boyfriend” at Sabrina’s niece’s wedding.
I like that both of our characters are older; they have been married and divorced from cheating spouses. Both are scared to open their hearts again, but Caden just might sweep Sabrina off her feet with his charm. A quick read with a slow build to true love.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
This is a quick read, but the authors packs quite a bit into the story.
Sabrina and Caden are attending their high school reunion with their best friends from high school. They were secret friends with benefits, and Caden had caught feeling, also kept a secret. He agrees to be a “fake boyfriend” at Sabrina’s niece’s wedding.
I like that both of our characters are older; they have been married and divorced from cheating spouses. Both are scared to open their hearts again, but Caden just might sweep Sabrina off her feet with his charm. A quick read with a slow build to true love.
Thank you to the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
December 27, 2025
This novella is a nice, quick read.
It was interesting that this was told almost entirely from Caden's perspective. I liked getting to see things through his eyes as most one POV (or 99% one POV) books are told from the heroines perspective. In this case you get to see things through his eyes with a bit of Sabrina's clarification and perspective thrown in.
This story flowed well and didn't feel rushed despite the shorter length. I liked that it was a companion to one of her other books so you get the connection and characters from it, but that you could also read this even if you haven't read the other book first. I also enjoyed the characters being a bit older, in their late 30s, as you don't see as many romances with older protagonists.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
It was interesting that this was told almost entirely from Caden's perspective. I liked getting to see things through his eyes as most one POV (or 99% one POV) books are told from the heroines perspective. In this case you get to see things through his eyes with a bit of Sabrina's clarification and perspective thrown in.
This story flowed well and didn't feel rushed despite the shorter length. I liked that it was a companion to one of her other books so you get the connection and characters from it, but that you could also read this even if you haven't read the other book first. I also enjoyed the characters being a bit older, in their late 30s, as you don't see as many romances with older protagonists.
Thank you to the author for providing an ARC for an honest review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Caden and Sabrina got their story! I wanted their happily ever as soon as Stephanie Rose wrote them as amazing side characters in Second Time's the Charm.
Their story is full of emotion. So much pining, which is one of my favourite parts of a second chance romance - I was pleasantly surprised by which of them it was.
They both carry hurt and scars from their respective divorces. I loved how their connection from the past reignited and evolved after the reunion and it helped them both heal.
I absolutely loved the epilogue! It was perfect and the way it unfolded fit Caden and Sabrina so well.
The duet narration by Connor Crais and Stella Hunter is amazing. They captured Caden and Sabrina brilliantly, bringing all the emotion and chemistry to this second chance.
Their story is full of emotion. So much pining, which is one of my favourite parts of a second chance romance - I was pleasantly surprised by which of them it was.
They both carry hurt and scars from their respective divorces. I loved how their connection from the past reignited and evolved after the reunion and it helped them both heal.
I absolutely loved the epilogue! It was perfect and the way it unfolded fit Caden and Sabrina so well.
The duet narration by Connor Crais and Stella Hunter is amazing. They captured Caden and Sabrina brilliantly, bringing all the emotion and chemistry to this second chance.
December 26, 2025
I was lucky enough to both read this book AND listen to the audio book.
When I started reading, I knew from the first page that I was going to love this short, sweet, and spicy second chance romance. Caden and Sabrina are best friend plus extras in high school. They meet again at their 20th reunion and the sparks start flying!
I love that Stephanie Rose writes characters that are a bit older than most books. Her stories always make me feel all the feelings, even this novella. Though itis short, it has everything I could hope for in a second chance romance.
Then, I listened to the audio book. Wow. Even though I knew the story, even though I had felt all the feelings, Connor Crais and Stella Hunter brought it to life! I absolutely love the duet narration of this book.
When I started reading, I knew from the first page that I was going to love this short, sweet, and spicy second chance romance. Caden and Sabrina are best friend plus extras in high school. They meet again at their 20th reunion and the sparks start flying!
I love that Stephanie Rose writes characters that are a bit older than most books. Her stories always make me feel all the feelings, even this novella. Though itis short, it has everything I could hope for in a second chance romance.
Then, I listened to the audio book. Wow. Even though I knew the story, even though I had felt all the feelings, Connor Crais and Stella Hunter brought it to life! I absolutely love the duet narration of this book.
December 30, 2025
*Advanced Listener Review*
•Tropes: Novella, Second Chance, Fake Relationship. He falls first.
• Thoughts:
This was my first Stephanie Rose book and it won't be my last. This was also a novella so I am excited to check out more of her books. I truly enjoyed the characters, the story was quick but I don't feel I was missing it on anything. It was relatable and sweet!
Narrator Thoughts:
Narrators: Connor Crais and Stella Hunter
•Duet Narration. 1.75x
These two were epic! They did such a great job! They brought heart to the story and kept me engaged and I just loved it.
OVERALL: 🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
•Storyline: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐/5
•Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧/5
•Spice Level: 🌶🌶️/ 5
•Swoon level: 🫠🫠🫠🫠/5
•Emotional:🥹🥹/5
•Banter: 😂/5
•Platform:Audiobook
•Tropes: Novella, Second Chance, Fake Relationship. He falls first.
• Thoughts:
This was my first Stephanie Rose book and it won't be my last. This was also a novella so I am excited to check out more of her books. I truly enjoyed the characters, the story was quick but I don't feel I was missing it on anything. It was relatable and sweet!
Narrator Thoughts:
Narrators: Connor Crais and Stella Hunter
•Duet Narration. 1.75x
These two were epic! They did such a great job! They brought heart to the story and kept me engaged and I just loved it.
OVERALL: 🌟🌟🌟🌟/5
•Storyline: ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐/5
•Narration: 🎧🎧🎧🎧🎧/5
•Spice Level: 🌶🌶️/ 5
•Swoon level: 🫠🫠🫠🫠/5
•Emotional:🥹🥹/5
•Banter: 😂/5
•Platform:Audiobook
January 3, 2026
Caden and Sabrina could have been more in high school, but they never were even though it seems both would have secretly liked more. Or maybe that was just Caden since he developed a crush on her.. too bad he never acted on it.
Fast forward and now they are at their 20 year high school reunion and it’s kinda like they are getting a do over. I’m not counting this as a second chance romance though since they didn’t officially date… they just had a friends with benefits thing going on. They are getting this second chance thanks to her needing a date to a wedding….
I enjoyed these two characters and was rooting for them from the very beginning. I wish this story was longer, but I understand why their story is novella length.
Fast forward and now they are at their 20 year high school reunion and it’s kinda like they are getting a do over. I’m not counting this as a second chance romance though since they didn’t officially date… they just had a friends with benefits thing going on. They are getting this second chance thanks to her needing a date to a wedding….
I enjoyed these two characters and was rooting for them from the very beginning. I wish this story was longer, but I understand why their story is novella length.
December 26, 2025
This was a sweet second chance novella for the best friends with extras. Sabrina and Caden were best friends since high school and whenever they needed the other, they hooked up. Caden, however, caught feelings but would never tell her because he didn't want to lose her. Years pass and they have drifted apart. Each married and divorced others. They meet up again at their 20th high school reunion and all the sparks are still there. And when Sabrina needs a fake boyfriend plus one to her niece's wedding, Caden is determined to not lose his chance again. I really enjoyed reading their journey to happiness!
December 26, 2025
This is the perfect read anytime but when you’re stressed for time and you just want something quick and easy this meets all the standards and more!
Swoony, steamy and full of humor this was a second chance story with lots of unexpected surprises.
Told in dual pov, Sabrina and Caden were high school friends with unique benefits. After graduation they lost touch until their high school reunion years later!
Seeing each other reignited old feelings but can they rekindle what they had?
Oh I loved, the humor their chemistry and their adulthood blunders.
You’ll have to read and find out what happened between them.
4.5 stars!
Swoony, steamy and full of humor this was a second chance story with lots of unexpected surprises.
Told in dual pov, Sabrina and Caden were high school friends with unique benefits. After graduation they lost touch until their high school reunion years later!
Seeing each other reignited old feelings but can they rekindle what they had?
Oh I loved, the humor their chemistry and their adulthood blunders.
You’ll have to read and find out what happened between them.
4.5 stars!
December 26, 2025
This story really pulled me in because of the characters. I felt an instant connection to them, they were flawed, emotional, and genuinely human. I loved how guarded they both were at first, and how their walls slowly came down as the story unfolded. Their inner thoughts and quiet struggles made their chemistry feel real, not forced, and I found myself rooting for them the entire time. The way they navigated misunderstandings, vulnerability, and growth made their relationship feel earned. By the end, I didn’t just like the story, I cared about the characters, which is what made this book so memorable and heartfelt for me.
December 26, 2025
This was the perfect novella to read during my holiday break. This technically a standalone story. However, I've been patiently waiting for Sabrina & Caden's story, since meeting them in "Second Time's the Charm" last year. They were awesome secondary characters who needed their HEA. Stephanie did an amazing job with their story. I loved learning more about them. I also loved that this felt more like a full novel. I absolutely loved the epilogue. It was also great to see Emily & Jessie too. Highly recommend. Especially for fans of "Second Time's the Charm". Also for readers looking for a new author or a cute little read before the end of the year. 💜
December 28, 2025
Lovely quick read
This is only my 2nd book by this author and I have really enjoyed both of them.
This is a short story (novella), just right to read over the Christmas season between entertaining.
This story is about Caden & Sabrina, high school friends with benefits, now both nearing 40, and both having divorced cheating partners. They meet up again at a school reunion and this story charts their reconnection.
I won’t give the storyline away, just to say it’s a nice short story with lots of emotions but no unnecessary angst, and the sweetest HEA.
Thank you Stephanie Rose ❤️
This is only my 2nd book by this author and I have really enjoyed both of them.
This is a short story (novella), just right to read over the Christmas season between entertaining.
This story is about Caden & Sabrina, high school friends with benefits, now both nearing 40, and both having divorced cheating partners. They meet up again at a school reunion and this story charts their reconnection.
I won’t give the storyline away, just to say it’s a nice short story with lots of emotions but no unnecessary angst, and the sweetest HEA.
Thank you Stephanie Rose ❤️
December 29, 2025
Second chance romance
He falls first (hard)
Only one bed
Fake date
Dual POV - 1st person
Duet narration - Connor Crais & Stella Hunter
*Fantastic narration. These two are perfect together. I always love Connor’s narration and Stella is a perfect FMC narrator next to his voice.
A love story 20 years in the making. A high school reunion reconnecting them. Former friends with benefits now friends to lovers.
A lovely short and sweet novella. There is spice just not til the end.
I enjoyed this book very much. The characters were likable and I found the story sweet. How they found each other reconnecting years later.
He falls first (hard)
Only one bed
Fake date
Dual POV - 1st person
Duet narration - Connor Crais & Stella Hunter
*Fantastic narration. These two are perfect together. I always love Connor’s narration and Stella is a perfect FMC narrator next to his voice.
A love story 20 years in the making. A high school reunion reconnecting them. Former friends with benefits now friends to lovers.
A lovely short and sweet novella. There is spice just not til the end.
I enjoyed this book very much. The characters were likable and I found the story sweet. How they found each other reconnecting years later.
December 31, 2025
This was a winning combination for me - a Stephanie Rose written down bad golden retriever MMC, fake dating and a story set in a familiar world. Having previously read Second Times The Charm I was left wanting the story of Caden & Sabrina and I’m thankful the author had delivered.
This novella delivers on the feels as Caden & Sabrina reconnect and realise that those feelings from long ago may be the real deal.
Both characters are coming from broken marriages which gives them more than their shared history to bond over and reveal their vulnerabilities.
I loved this story of realising your first love is
your best love.
This novella delivers on the feels as Caden & Sabrina reconnect and realise that those feelings from long ago may be the real deal.
Both characters are coming from broken marriages which gives them more than their shared history to bond over and reveal their vulnerabilities.
I loved this story of realising your first love is
your best love.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 77 reviews