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Take Two
Gemma Quinn and Caitlin Stone met as teenagers in their sophomore year at Westmore High School. Little did they know that a literal run-in would change their lives. Unfortunately for them, finding the one true love at such a young age isn’t easy to hold onto when life throws hard choices their way in college.
Now, at twenty-eight years old, Gemma is comfortable. For six years, she has played a lead detective in a hit TV show and must decide whether signing on for another three seasons is genuinely worth it, or if she should chase her dreams of the silver screen. The call of a lifetime arrives when Gemma gets offered a role in a new lesbian romance film.
Caitlin followed the path she had laid out for herself since she was a young girl, and now she is the famous leading woman in every hit rom-com. Finally, she gets the opportunity to be taken more seriously as an actress in her first feature drama. But what Caitlin doesn’t know is that her co-star and love interest is none other than her ex-girlfriend.
The bond Gemma and Caitlin formed as teenagers is undeniable when their forced reconciliation comes almost a decade later. Will their on-screen romance spark real-life love, or will this proximity tear them apart? When given a second chance, will Gemma and Caitlin be a box-office bomb or a smash hit?
Now, at twenty-eight years old, Gemma is comfortable. For six years, she has played a lead detective in a hit TV show and must decide whether signing on for another three seasons is genuinely worth it, or if she should chase her dreams of the silver screen. The call of a lifetime arrives when Gemma gets offered a role in a new lesbian romance film.
Caitlin followed the path she had laid out for herself since she was a young girl, and now she is the famous leading woman in every hit rom-com. Finally, she gets the opportunity to be taken more seriously as an actress in her first feature drama. But what Caitlin doesn’t know is that her co-star and love interest is none other than her ex-girlfriend.
The bond Gemma and Caitlin formed as teenagers is undeniable when their forced reconciliation comes almost a decade later. Will their on-screen romance spark real-life love, or will this proximity tear them apart? When given a second chance, will Gemma and Caitlin be a box-office bomb or a smash hit?
304 pages, Kindle Edition
Published January 20, 2026
About the author
Erica Goodwin
3 books66 followersErica Goodwin is an entertainment industry professional turned author based in Southern California. When she’s not typing away at her computer, you can find Erica with her feet buried in the sand by the ocean with a sapphic novel in her hand or cheering for the New York Knicks at a local spots bar.
Once upon a time, Erica was dreaming up her own stories as a child, but it wasn’t until she purchased her first sapphic novel, introducing her to a new world, that she realized she wanted to write her own stories. After her wife’s endless support and encouragement, Erica finally turned her imagination into words. Creating fun, happily ever after, spicy romance novels while her one-eyed pug snores beside her has been an exciting new journey for Erica.
Follow her on Instagram @ericagoodwinauthor for all her future updates!
Once upon a time, Erica was dreaming up her own stories as a child, but it wasn’t until she purchased her first sapphic novel, introducing her to a new world, that she realized she wanted to write her own stories. After her wife’s endless support and encouragement, Erica finally turned her imagination into words. Creating fun, happily ever after, spicy romance novels while her one-eyed pug snores beside her has been an exciting new journey for Erica.
Follow her on Instagram @ericagoodwinauthor for all her future updates!
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 59 reviews
February 7, 2026
3.5⭐️. The forced proximity was well-written. Caitlin had a lot of groveling to do, and she did, and I liked that Gemma rejected her multiple times. I love jealousy scenes, and I was served. Goodwin really portrayed well the confusing mix of hurt and deep love Gemma is feeling for Caitlin. My big issue is I had trouble liking Caitlin. She knows she wants Gemma back rather quickly, and I loved her determination, but the first step is a big, heartfelt apology that came too late in the book. Even during the trailer scene, Caitlin talked about hurting her during their teenage years first. Gemma pushing her away was a bit repetitive at some point until she stops. The big gesture was very sweet and romantic, but I think this should have been the peak of a more progressive and healthy journey toward forgiveness and trust.
But overall, I enjoyed this book and Goodwin’s writing style.
Ps : How could they be listening to Billie Eilish and Tate McRae 15 years ago? 😝.
But overall, I enjoyed this book and Goodwin’s writing style.
Ps : How could they be listening to Billie Eilish and Tate McRae 15 years ago? 😝.
Review of advance copy received from Author
⭐️⭐️⭐️.75 🌶🌶
📚 ARC Review 📚 Thanks to the author for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
The narrative follows the dual perspectives of Gemma and Caitlin, who met and fell in love in high school 💖 The story moves between those young years and the present day, a decade later. Now 28, both women are actors who reunite as co-stars in a lesbian romantic drama, and must learn how to exist around one another again 🎬
Imagine your ex-girlfriend becoming your co-star on a hugely important, career-defining film. There’s a stereotype that us sapphics stay friends with our exes — these two very much did not 🫢
Gemma is a genuinely lovely character and the one I connected with most. Caitlin is more hot and cold, while trying to make up for the break-up and the years of no contact. I wasn’t always on her side (with her treatment of Gemma or her current love interest Michelle), which adds to the messiness and angst.
I especially enjoyed the sections set in the past! The author builds their relationship brilliantly, and the friends-to-girlfriends progression was fun to read and also really sweet as Caitlin, in particular, has a queer awakening. These sections made me start rooting for the their older selves!
In the present timeline, the forced proximity pushes them into difficult but necessary conversations about their past, fears, and unresolved feelings - with some 🔥🌶 both on and off set. The pace speeds up in the final chapters, but I was very happy to see these two find their happily ever after ❤️
p.s. Could we have justice for the character of Michelle please? I hope she finds love in another book somewhere 🤞📚
📚 ARC Review 📚 Thanks to the author for this advanced copy in exchange for an honest review.
The narrative follows the dual perspectives of Gemma and Caitlin, who met and fell in love in high school 💖 The story moves between those young years and the present day, a decade later. Now 28, both women are actors who reunite as co-stars in a lesbian romantic drama, and must learn how to exist around one another again 🎬
Imagine your ex-girlfriend becoming your co-star on a hugely important, career-defining film. There’s a stereotype that us sapphics stay friends with our exes — these two very much did not 🫢
Gemma is a genuinely lovely character and the one I connected with most. Caitlin is more hot and cold, while trying to make up for the break-up and the years of no contact. I wasn’t always on her side (with her treatment of Gemma or her current love interest Michelle), which adds to the messiness and angst.
I especially enjoyed the sections set in the past! The author builds their relationship brilliantly, and the friends-to-girlfriends progression was fun to read and also really sweet as Caitlin, in particular, has a queer awakening. These sections made me start rooting for the their older selves!
In the present timeline, the forced proximity pushes them into difficult but necessary conversations about their past, fears, and unresolved feelings - with some 🔥🌶 both on and off set. The pace speeds up in the final chapters, but I was very happy to see these two find their happily ever after ❤️
p.s. Could we have justice for the character of Michelle please? I hope she finds love in another book somewhere 🤞📚
January 14, 2026
Minor spoilers in this one, but I feel like they aren’t really spoilers.. it’s a second chance romance soo, but wanted to give the opportunity for some to not read the review if minor spoilers are an issue!
Thank you to Erica Goodwin for the ARC! This is my first physical ARC and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to read Take Two before its release!
I love reading about women in entertainment, so I was really excited to read this. I will say that it is usually a hit or miss for me when reading a second chance romance. Most of the time, I feel like the couple broke up for a reason. I was very interested in what happened between Gemma and Caitlin when they broke up.
This leads me to Caitlin.I liked her in the beginning. But I’m not going to lie, the more I learned about her and how she treated Gemma (yes, they were in high school, but still), it made it really hard for me to like her. I understand being terrified of discovering feelings for a girl, especially at the age of 15/16ish. So while I hate what happened, it makes sense. But it’s a different story when you are in college and doing the same thing that you ALREADY DID TO YOUR GIRLFRIEND!!
I adored Gemma, so I believe that made my dislike of Caitlin more. I don’t think she is a bad person, but I just wish she would be more mindful of how her actions affect others. This is lack of mindfulness is shown with the Michelle situation as well.
Gemma is an angel. I loved that she was unapologetically an out lesbian in high school. It was refreshing to see that she didn’t care about what others thought and didn’t shy away from showing affection to her girlfriend.
I loved the friendships in this book as well. Maddie did make Caitlin a little more bearable by calling her out on her sh*t. That’s a real friend right there. Someone who doesn’t just placate their friends is friend everyone needs.
Hayley and Gemma’s friendship was adorable as well. I definitely resonated with Hayley and her protectiveness of Gemma. It’s hard to see your friend so heartbroken and I understand her wanting to make sure her best friend isn’t hurt like that again. I would love to read a romance that featured Hayley or Maddie. The besties deserve their own romance novel.
I did start to like Caitlin towards the end, but I did wish that we saw more of them together as adults, especially before what happened in the last couple of chapters. I felt like it was too soon to take that step without actually seeing if Caitlin’s actions would match her words this time. I need to see her evolve more.
As I stated earlier, the writing is amazing, that’s not in question. I just had a hard time liking Caitlin. I’d give the book 3.75- 4 stars, I can’t decide, so I will round it up to 4 stars.
Take Two is a real, raw and messy second chance romance. I can’t wait to read more in the NYC series (I think I know who the next couple will be) and also read the author’s other standalone book!
Thank you to Erica Goodwin for the ARC! This is my first physical ARC and I’m so grateful for the opportunity to read Take Two before its release!
I love reading about women in entertainment, so I was really excited to read this. I will say that it is usually a hit or miss for me when reading a second chance romance. Most of the time, I feel like the couple broke up for a reason. I was very interested in what happened between Gemma and Caitlin when they broke up.
This leads me to Caitlin.I liked her in the beginning. But I’m not going to lie, the more I learned about her and how she treated Gemma (yes, they were in high school, but still), it made it really hard for me to like her. I understand being terrified of discovering feelings for a girl, especially at the age of 15/16ish. So while I hate what happened, it makes sense. But it’s a different story when you are in college and doing the same thing that you ALREADY DID TO YOUR GIRLFRIEND!!
I adored Gemma, so I believe that made my dislike of Caitlin more. I don’t think she is a bad person, but I just wish she would be more mindful of how her actions affect others. This is lack of mindfulness is shown with the Michelle situation as well.
Gemma is an angel. I loved that she was unapologetically an out lesbian in high school. It was refreshing to see that she didn’t care about what others thought and didn’t shy away from showing affection to her girlfriend.
I loved the friendships in this book as well. Maddie did make Caitlin a little more bearable by calling her out on her sh*t. That’s a real friend right there. Someone who doesn’t just placate their friends is friend everyone needs.
Hayley and Gemma’s friendship was adorable as well. I definitely resonated with Hayley and her protectiveness of Gemma. It’s hard to see your friend so heartbroken and I understand her wanting to make sure her best friend isn’t hurt like that again. I would love to read a romance that featured Hayley or Maddie. The besties deserve their own romance novel.
I did start to like Caitlin towards the end, but I did wish that we saw more of them together as adults, especially before what happened in the last couple of chapters. I felt like it was too soon to take that step without actually seeing if Caitlin’s actions would match her words this time. I need to see her evolve more.
As I stated earlier, the writing is amazing, that’s not in question. I just had a hard time liking Caitlin. I’d give the book 3.75- 4 stars, I can’t decide, so I will round it up to 4 stars.
Take Two is a real, raw and messy second chance romance. I can’t wait to read more in the NYC series (I think I know who the next couple will be) and also read the author’s other standalone book!
February 1, 2026
3.5 Sometimes to distinguish between the two leads
January 26, 2026
3.5 ⭐ and 3🔥
The style and narration are very good, especially for a debut novel, and the messiness of it all will likely keep you glued to the pages!
The story is full of heartbreak, remorse, regret, and hopefully well-deserved forgiveness so be prepared 😉
The only downside that spoiled the book for me is that I couldn't connect with the characters. I didn't feel any chemistry between the MCs, nor did I manage to like one, plus as can often happen in second-chance novels it seemed like we going into circle without actually moving on.
I really thik the best part were the MCs' best firends so I'll be looking forward to book 2!!
Now to the best part, the tropes:
-Second chance
-Queer Awakening
-Workplace Romance
-Dual timeline
-Forced Proximity
-Kinda meet cute
-Contemporary
-HEA
-Femme × femme
-Actresses MCs
-All queer cast
-Bi rep
The style and narration are very good, especially for a debut novel, and the messiness of it all will likely keep you glued to the pages!
The story is full of heartbreak, remorse, regret, and hopefully well-deserved forgiveness so be prepared 😉
The only downside that spoiled the book for me is that I couldn't connect with the characters. I didn't feel any chemistry between the MCs, nor did I manage to like one, plus as can often happen in second-chance novels it seemed like we going into circle without actually moving on.
I really thik the best part were the MCs' best firends so I'll be looking forward to book 2!!
Now to the best part, the tropes:
-Second chance
-Queer Awakening
-Workplace Romance
-Dual timeline
-Forced Proximity
-Kinda meet cute
-Contemporary
-HEA
-Femme × femme
-Actresses MCs
-All queer cast
-Bi rep
Review of advance copy received from Author
Take Two is a story of everlasting love, heartbreak, and seeking forgiveness.
It was a pleasure to get to know Gemma and Caitlyn, not only in their current age, but also in their teenage years. The flashbacks gave the necessary information to understand the animosity and the strength of their bond. I enjoyed seeing them navigate everything that happened and have been left unsaid while having to work together.
If there is one thing I wish for to make this book even more enjoyable, it would be more time for them to get to know their adult selves and more personal growth for the main characters, especially for Caitlyn. Her decision-making and communication skills were… something, and so despite the six years spent apart.
Overall, I enjoyed reading Take Two, and I look forward to reading the rest of the NYC Romance Series.
It was a pleasure to get to know Gemma and Caitlyn, not only in their current age, but also in their teenage years. The flashbacks gave the necessary information to understand the animosity and the strength of their bond. I enjoyed seeing them navigate everything that happened and have been left unsaid while having to work together.
If there is one thing I wish for to make this book even more enjoyable, it would be more time for them to get to know their adult selves and more personal growth for the main characters, especially for Caitlyn. Her decision-making and communication skills were… something, and so despite the six years spent apart.
Overall, I enjoyed reading Take Two, and I look forward to reading the rest of the NYC Romance Series.
February 25, 2026
the ending was soooooo cheeeeesy
May 10, 2026
Take Two
Wow - talk about healing from a heartbreak! This was the ultimate second-chance romance! Caitlin and Gemma were in love since high school. Then after an abrupt breakup - and no contact for years! - the two end up meeting again at a chemistry read for a movie. Of course, they're both cast and forced to face the past that they each fought hard to forget.
Expect to feel ALL the emotions in this one - I'm still reeling from it!
Wow - talk about healing from a heartbreak! This was the ultimate second-chance romance! Caitlin and Gemma were in love since high school. Then after an abrupt breakup - and no contact for years! - the two end up meeting again at a chemistry read for a movie. Of course, they're both cast and forced to face the past that they each fought hard to forget.
Expect to feel ALL the emotions in this one - I'm still reeling from it!
April 27, 2026
I’m a sucker for second chance romance
July 10, 2026
I thought this book was set in present day but then they were listening to tate mcrae in high school 13 years ago
March 19, 2026
If you have an ex, read with caution.
January 15, 2026
• ARC REVIEW •
4.5⭐️
Spice Level: 🔥🔥
“Did you know that the new girl from Detroit is a lesbian?”
Thank you so much to the author for trusting me as an early reader and for sending me a copy of this amazing sapphic romance! 🫶🏼
An excellent dual POV with the added bonus of it being a dual timeline! I really loved getting to bounce between the present and the past, getting a glimpse into Gemma and Caitlin’s early years together and what led them to their original demise!
Gemma was a sweet baby angel that did not deserve the plate she was served, while Caitlin was fiery and a tiny👌🏼biiiit self-centered until their shared reality came crashing down. Gemma always made it clear she was down bad, but I was THRILLED to see the tables turn for Caitlin to really be humbled with her true feelings!
This second chance romance was messy, chaotic, and so very addictive! I loved the MCs dynamic, and the ways they were literally forced to confront their past while their present collided. The writing was concise, witty, and very engaging! I look forward to the next in the series and all future works by this amazing author! Highly recommend!
4.5⭐️
Spice Level: 🔥🔥
“Did you know that the new girl from Detroit is a lesbian?”
Thank you so much to the author for trusting me as an early reader and for sending me a copy of this amazing sapphic romance! 🫶🏼
An excellent dual POV with the added bonus of it being a dual timeline! I really loved getting to bounce between the present and the past, getting a glimpse into Gemma and Caitlin’s early years together and what led them to their original demise!
Gemma was a sweet baby angel that did not deserve the plate she was served, while Caitlin was fiery and a tiny👌🏼biiiit self-centered until their shared reality came crashing down. Gemma always made it clear she was down bad, but I was THRILLED to see the tables turn for Caitlin to really be humbled with her true feelings!
This second chance romance was messy, chaotic, and so very addictive! I loved the MCs dynamic, and the ways they were literally forced to confront their past while their present collided. The writing was concise, witty, and very engaging! I look forward to the next in the series and all future works by this amazing author! Highly recommend!
Review of advance copy received from Author
I went into this book with no prior knowledge of the author or her style. I will say, I did enjoy her writing.
The MCs are both charismatic and likable, until they're not. Gemma has her moments of complete hardheadness while Caitlin just sort or rolls over for Gemma.
With their history, I know there was some guilt in play. One of them made a huge mistake and acted out of fear instead of talking to the other.
As the story progressed, their relationship did grow, even if Gemma fought it at almost every step. Caitlin knew what she wanted, and she tried to go for it.
Overall, I did enjoy the story. The movie being made was a really nice vehicle to bring out the MCs respective trauma and emotions.
I recommend it if you enjoy second chance, childhood lovers, and interesting story lines.
The MCs are both charismatic and likable, until they're not. Gemma has her moments of complete hardheadness while Caitlin just sort or rolls over for Gemma.
With their history, I know there was some guilt in play. One of them made a huge mistake and acted out of fear instead of talking to the other.
As the story progressed, their relationship did grow, even if Gemma fought it at almost every step. Caitlin knew what she wanted, and she tried to go for it.
Overall, I did enjoy the story. The movie being made was a really nice vehicle to bring out the MCs respective trauma and emotions.
I recommend it if you enjoy second chance, childhood lovers, and interesting story lines.
Review of advance copy received from Author
4.5 stars. I am so glad that me and Erica connected so that I could read this book! After reading the first book, I knew I was going to like this one even more. This story has second chances, forced proximity, and workplace romance all rolled into one. It is dual timeline, so you get to see how these two fall in love as teens as well as seeing how they reconnect as adults. I'm usually hit or miss with second chance romances. I either don't like them at all or I love them, and this one I really loved. This one definitely fell into the higher angst category. These two characters made so many mistakes, but you could feel their love for each other on every page. I can not wait to continue this series, since it's pretty obvious who the next characters are going to be and I am READY to see how that's going to play out.
January 8, 2026
ARC REVIEW
And holy smokes that was SOOOOOO GOOOOD!! That was my second ever sapphic book and this didn’t disappoint it raised my bar for romance books and THEY ARE everything and more, the acting aspect felt so dear to my heart I was a theater kid in highschool so seeing this was so fun and seeing them blossom into a love that they always had was so special.
I love everthing about it; then finding themselves and so on their love for each other that never really stopped was very heartfelt I felt their love and I love when I can feel that so thank you
The writing is so strong I can feel the love that was put into this book. characters are so strong on their own but their soul tie basically pulled them together against and why became even stronger together
I couldn’t stop like I ate this up it’s so freaking good
The tension, the confessions, the smut scenes, the flashbacks to their teen/college years this was so freaking phenomenal and so well constructed. I was on the edge of my seat because I had to know what happened I was like is this going to happen?? And then some parts made me cry I loved them so much and some made me kick my feet like a kid cause it was so good and I screamed I loved every second of this book.
I can’t wait for more in this series especially finding out who it will be I screamed when I figured it out within the book !!
Thank you Erica Goodwin for having me read and review this book, and sending me a physical copy of this book, I loved it with my whole entire heart and I will cherish this story “forever and always”
HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS !!! You won’t regret it super fast read I couldn’t put it down.
And holy smokes that was SOOOOOO GOOOOD!! That was my second ever sapphic book and this didn’t disappoint it raised my bar for romance books and THEY ARE everything and more, the acting aspect felt so dear to my heart I was a theater kid in highschool so seeing this was so fun and seeing them blossom into a love that they always had was so special.
I love everthing about it; then finding themselves and so on their love for each other that never really stopped was very heartfelt I felt their love and I love when I can feel that so thank you
The writing is so strong I can feel the love that was put into this book. characters are so strong on their own but their soul tie basically pulled them together against and why became even stronger together
I couldn’t stop like I ate this up it’s so freaking good
The tension, the confessions, the smut scenes, the flashbacks to their teen/college years this was so freaking phenomenal and so well constructed. I was on the edge of my seat because I had to know what happened I was like is this going to happen?? And then some parts made me cry I loved them so much and some made me kick my feet like a kid cause it was so good and I screamed I loved every second of this book.
I can’t wait for more in this series especially finding out who it will be I screamed when I figured it out within the book !!
Thank you Erica Goodwin for having me read and review this book, and sending me a physical copy of this book, I loved it with my whole entire heart and I will cherish this story “forever and always”
HIGHLY RECOMMEND THIS !!! You won’t regret it super fast read I couldn’t put it down.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 4, 2026
The second novel from Erica Goodwin. I enjoyed the story between Caitlin and Gemma, went from friends to lovers to enemies to lovers, very fun!!!! I will be reading the other books in this series and I am a huge fan of Erica's wife and wanted to support her work as well!
April 6, 2026
Super cute rom-com with a backstory set in New Hope, PA 😍
April 21, 2026
idk how this book was both meh and able to make me cry at the same time.
Really pleasant read… but meh!
Really pleasant read… but meh!
May 28, 2026
3.5 stars! Super quick and easy read, which was perfect for vacation. I did like the back and forth between the characters past and present and the second chance vibe. Wasn’t amazing but definitely kept me entertained!
January 26, 2026
this was soooo fucking good 👩❤️💋👩👩❤️💋👩🥰🥰
May 19, 2026
Twas fine - the proposal at the end as Caitlin’s way of “showing she’ll never leave again” was insane, they def should not have gotten engaged, & the oscars was v silly, but it had some good moments, liked Gemma, enjoyed the friendships more than the main romantic relationship
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
March 4, 2026
3.5 ⭐️
Overall I really enjoyed this one, the dynamic between Hayley and Gemma especially. Their friendship reminds me a lot of my relationship with my best friend so it was something I easily resonated with.
Caitlin’s character and her sheer disregard for other people and the effect she has on them really bothered me. Specifically her relationship with Michelle. Very much felt like “I’m in love with my ex but I want someone incase she rejects me”
I liked the relationship between her and Gemma for the most part, up until about 87% of this book and then it felt super back and forth between them and I was just ready for the ending. I wasn’t expecting a proposal as the grand gesture so that caught me off guard. Going from super deep unresolved anger and hurt over 10 years to becoming fiancés just seemed like a very fast move and skipping a few steps but what is a sapphic romance novel without skipping some.
Overall I really enjoyed this one, the dynamic between Hayley and Gemma especially. Their friendship reminds me a lot of my relationship with my best friend so it was something I easily resonated with.
Caitlin’s character and her sheer disregard for other people and the effect she has on them really bothered me. Specifically her relationship with Michelle. Very much felt like “I’m in love with my ex but I want someone incase she rejects me”
I liked the relationship between her and Gemma for the most part, up until about 87% of this book and then it felt super back and forth between them and I was just ready for the ending. I wasn’t expecting a proposal as the grand gesture so that caught me off guard. Going from super deep unresolved anger and hurt over 10 years to becoming fiancés just seemed like a very fast move and skipping a few steps but what is a sapphic romance novel without skipping some.
February 2, 2026
A decent debut from Erica Goodwin, characters just fell a little flat for me and Caitlin came across creepy as hell at times.
February 8, 2026
Second chance romance are my favourite trope of the whole genre. However they are really hard to get right. Sometimes the reason for the initial breakup is dumb as shit. Sometimes the yearning only exists for half a page. Sometimes there isn't enough groveling.
Luckily this book fell into none of those traps.
This has got some good ass groveling. Caitlin really fights for Gemma. And Gemma doesn't take her back without making her. All the while these girls are down bad for each other and have tragically yearned for what they had and might still have for so long already.
That being said I think this would've benefited from a different timeline. This book spans about three months of their rekindled relationship and that wasn't enough to make me truly believe that they could lay the past to rest. Especially after nine years of silence between them and the gut punch of an initial breakup.
Spoilers:
What bugged me as well, was the way that Caitlin had left in the first place, would be something you would never ever recover from in my eyes. Breaking up with your partner of three years by packing your things in the middle of the night and only leaving a note is absolutely diabolical. I really didn't understand why she never reached out to her in the decade that passed as well. That would've made sense, if there had been some anger or resentment on Caitlin's side, but she pretty much instantly regretted her actions. And yet she is too much of a coward to own up to her actions and only started making amends, when they are forced back into each other's orbits again.
However the book does address most of these issues, but sadly not in a wholly satisfactory way.
Luckily this book fell into none of those traps.
This has got some good ass groveling. Caitlin really fights for Gemma. And Gemma doesn't take her back without making her. All the while these girls are down bad for each other and have tragically yearned for what they had and might still have for so long already.
That being said I think this would've benefited from a different timeline. This book spans about three months of their rekindled relationship and that wasn't enough to make me truly believe that they could lay the past to rest. Especially after nine years of silence between them and the gut punch of an initial breakup.
Spoilers:
What bugged me as well, was the way that Caitlin had left in the first place, would be something you would never ever recover from in my eyes. Breaking up with your partner of three years by packing your things in the middle of the night and only leaving a note is absolutely diabolical. I really didn't understand why she never reached out to her in the decade that passed as well. That would've made sense, if there had been some anger or resentment on Caitlin's side, but she pretty much instantly regretted her actions. And yet she is too much of a coward to own up to her actions and only started making amends, when they are forced back into each other's orbits again.
However the book does address most of these issues, but sadly not in a wholly satisfactory way.
February 12, 2026
Listen, I’m learning that I’m more of a romance reader than I thought I was (apparently I just needed sapphic romance books to enlighten me) and I’m really happy I picked this one up. The therapist in me struggles when people won’t just be HONEST WITH THEIR FEELINGS but I understand why the trope exists. I would have loved just a little more emotional reconciliation and depth to the relationship, but overall a super easy and fun read!
January 23, 2026
How do I even begin this review?
Let me start by saying this: I hate second-chance romance 9 times out of 10. Authors almost always hand out forgiveness too easily, too quickly, and it never feels earned. It’s lazy. It’s unrealistic. And it usually doesn’t work for me.
This book is the 1 out of 10 that gets it right.
This is exactly how I want all second-chance tropes to be done.
Gemma and Caitlin’s story felt real. Painfully real. Gemma’s hesitation—her flat-out refusal to put her heart back on the line for essentially the entire book—was everything. Her internal war between her heart and her head felt so authentic because that is how real people respond when the love of their life reappears nine years after shattering everything you built together. There’s no rushing past that kind of damage, and this book never tried to.
This is easily my favorite second-chance romance (aside from Midnight Rain by Haley Cass). And honestly? I wasn’t rooting for Caitlin until about 80% of the way through the book. That’s when it finally clicked for me. While she was absolutely misguided in her youth and early twenties, I could hesitantly understand her choices. I’ve had moments in my own twenties where I truly believed I was doing what was best—only to look back now, in my late thirties, and realize how much my “self-preservation” hurt the people I loved, even when my intentions weren’t cruel.
Gemma, on the other hand, was so sure of herself even when she was young—and I loved her for that. She’s the total opposite of me. I’m a Caitlin. And that’s probably why I wanted to punch Caitlin about 90% of the time. We self-sabotage. We destroy things before they can destroy us. We convince ourselves it’s protection, even when it leaves wreckage behind. And let me tell you—it took me damn near 30 years to figure my shit out. So yeah. I know her.
And when Gemma hit Caitlin with:
“When we’re at work, we have a job to do, which means I will be professional. But when we’re done acting for the day, you will resume being irrelevant to my life.”
I knew immediately—this was going to be a long, deserved road for Caitlin.
Nothing was rushed. Nothing was handed over for free. The forgiveness, the healing, the love—it all had to be earned. And that’s why it worked.
This book was incredible, and I am beyond excited for book two.
Second-chance romance authors: this is the blueprint.
Let me start by saying this: I hate second-chance romance 9 times out of 10. Authors almost always hand out forgiveness too easily, too quickly, and it never feels earned. It’s lazy. It’s unrealistic. And it usually doesn’t work for me.
This book is the 1 out of 10 that gets it right.
This is exactly how I want all second-chance tropes to be done.
Gemma and Caitlin’s story felt real. Painfully real. Gemma’s hesitation—her flat-out refusal to put her heart back on the line for essentially the entire book—was everything. Her internal war between her heart and her head felt so authentic because that is how real people respond when the love of their life reappears nine years after shattering everything you built together. There’s no rushing past that kind of damage, and this book never tried to.
This is easily my favorite second-chance romance (aside from Midnight Rain by Haley Cass). And honestly? I wasn’t rooting for Caitlin until about 80% of the way through the book. That’s when it finally clicked for me. While she was absolutely misguided in her youth and early twenties, I could hesitantly understand her choices. I’ve had moments in my own twenties where I truly believed I was doing what was best—only to look back now, in my late thirties, and realize how much my “self-preservation” hurt the people I loved, even when my intentions weren’t cruel.
Gemma, on the other hand, was so sure of herself even when she was young—and I loved her for that. She’s the total opposite of me. I’m a Caitlin. And that’s probably why I wanted to punch Caitlin about 90% of the time. We self-sabotage. We destroy things before they can destroy us. We convince ourselves it’s protection, even when it leaves wreckage behind. And let me tell you—it took me damn near 30 years to figure my shit out. So yeah. I know her.
And when Gemma hit Caitlin with:
“When we’re at work, we have a job to do, which means I will be professional. But when we’re done acting for the day, you will resume being irrelevant to my life.”
I knew immediately—this was going to be a long, deserved road for Caitlin.
Nothing was rushed. Nothing was handed over for free. The forgiveness, the healing, the love—it all had to be earned. And that’s why it worked.
This book was incredible, and I am beyond excited for book two.
Second-chance romance authors: this is the blueprint.
June 30, 2026
I was left legitimately speechless after reading this, honestly. Not only did I cry for most of this book, but it was truly a work of art. Like sure, I cry at a lot of books, but this one? Wow, it was something else entirely. The story, the love, the writing, the push and pull between the main characters, their past, every single thing about this book was incredible in a way words cannot explain. And the side characters? Oh I need more of Madison and Hayley IMMEDIATELY. The way Hayley stood up for Gemma was fucking amazing, exactly what a friend should be if you ask me. The way she gave her space to figure out how she truly felt and only wanted the best for her was everything and more.
It's impossible for me to accurately put into words just how much I loved this book. truth be told, I don't think there's enough words in any language, past, present, or future, to even get close explaining just how incredible this book was. Erica's writing is beyond captivating, it's addictive, it draws you in instantly, and keeps you wanting, needing more. I've read both of her books and am dying for more. But this book, Gemma and Caitlin's story, was everything and more. It was the kind of love you'll only ever find in books, or movies. It was truly something special, to watch these two women work out how to overcome such a horrible part of their history, watching young Caitlin learn she's not who she thought she was, learning and accepting her sexuality so young, I can't imagine how difficult it must have been. And as for Gemma? Wow, what an incredible woman, the way she loved Caitlin was beyond words. The way they loved each other was something special, if I believed in soulmates, I'd say that's what they are. They completed each other, they were exactly what the other needed.
It took a lot of strength on Gemma's part to learn to forgive and accept that she still loved Caitlin, despite everything, but oh my god was Caitlin patient with her, the same way younger Gemma was patient with Caitlin. From the very beginning of their relationship, it was obvious they were each others Endgame.
I'm gonna shut up now, but yeah, go read it, I pinky promise you will not regret it at all, from beginning to end, I was captivated by the story, the writing and of course, the characters. I'm actually gonna shut up now I promise. BUT GO READ IT!!! (I'm not sorry for shouting)
It's impossible for me to accurately put into words just how much I loved this book. truth be told, I don't think there's enough words in any language, past, present, or future, to even get close explaining just how incredible this book was. Erica's writing is beyond captivating, it's addictive, it draws you in instantly, and keeps you wanting, needing more. I've read both of her books and am dying for more. But this book, Gemma and Caitlin's story, was everything and more. It was the kind of love you'll only ever find in books, or movies. It was truly something special, to watch these two women work out how to overcome such a horrible part of their history, watching young Caitlin learn she's not who she thought she was, learning and accepting her sexuality so young, I can't imagine how difficult it must have been. And as for Gemma? Wow, what an incredible woman, the way she loved Caitlin was beyond words. The way they loved each other was something special, if I believed in soulmates, I'd say that's what they are. They completed each other, they were exactly what the other needed.
It took a lot of strength on Gemma's part to learn to forgive and accept that she still loved Caitlin, despite everything, but oh my god was Caitlin patient with her, the same way younger Gemma was patient with Caitlin. From the very beginning of their relationship, it was obvious they were each others Endgame.
I'm gonna shut up now, but yeah, go read it, I pinky promise you will not regret it at all, from beginning to end, I was captivated by the story, the writing and of course, the characters. I'm actually gonna shut up now I promise. BUT GO READ IT!!! (I'm not sorry for shouting)
July 5, 2026
Rating: 4
Spice: 🌶🌶
Take Two by Erica Goodwin had me from the dual timeline structure alone, but it's what she does with it that earns its stars.
Splitting the narrative between Gemma and Caitlin's teenage years and their present-day reunion isn't just a device to fill in backstory. It's the entire emotional engine of the book. Watching them fall in love as teens and make the kind of mistakes only scared high schoolers make gives real weight to the pain they're both still carrying as adults. Caitlin's choices could have easily read as cruel or thin if we'd only met her at twenty-eight. Instead, we understand exactly where the fear came from, and that made all the difference in how I read her.
I do wish that the adult versions of Gemma and Caitlin talked to each other a bit more. As teenagers, letting things build up until they explode makes sense because that's what teenagers do. But watching two grown women fall into the same pattern of stewing instead of communicating and making rash decisions without any conversation left me wanting more scenes where they actually worked through what happened between them, rather than circling it.
Where this book really shines is the celebrity romance angle. Goodwin strikes a rare balance: enough of the fame to make it feel real, but without letting headlines and paparazzi swallow the whole love story. Casting Gemma and Caitlin opposite each other in a highly-anticipated lesbian romance film (one that's actually treated with care and respect within the story) felt like a pointed and satisfying choice given how rarely that seems to happen in real Hollywood.
Hayley and Madison round out the book beautifully as the best friends who show up fully for Gemma and Caitlin. The hint of tension brewing between the two of them is a smart setup for book two, and I'm already invested in seeing where their story goes, plus hopefully getting a glimpse of Gemma and Caitlin's happily ever after along the way.
TLDR: A dual-timeline second-chance romance that earns its emotional beats, wrapped in a celebrity romance package that never loses sight of the love story at its center.
Spice: 🌶🌶
Take Two by Erica Goodwin had me from the dual timeline structure alone, but it's what she does with it that earns its stars.
Splitting the narrative between Gemma and Caitlin's teenage years and their present-day reunion isn't just a device to fill in backstory. It's the entire emotional engine of the book. Watching them fall in love as teens and make the kind of mistakes only scared high schoolers make gives real weight to the pain they're both still carrying as adults. Caitlin's choices could have easily read as cruel or thin if we'd only met her at twenty-eight. Instead, we understand exactly where the fear came from, and that made all the difference in how I read her.
I do wish that the adult versions of Gemma and Caitlin talked to each other a bit more. As teenagers, letting things build up until they explode makes sense because that's what teenagers do. But watching two grown women fall into the same pattern of stewing instead of communicating and making rash decisions without any conversation left me wanting more scenes where they actually worked through what happened between them, rather than circling it.
Where this book really shines is the celebrity romance angle. Goodwin strikes a rare balance: enough of the fame to make it feel real, but without letting headlines and paparazzi swallow the whole love story. Casting Gemma and Caitlin opposite each other in a highly-anticipated lesbian romance film (one that's actually treated with care and respect within the story) felt like a pointed and satisfying choice given how rarely that seems to happen in real Hollywood.
Hayley and Madison round out the book beautifully as the best friends who show up fully for Gemma and Caitlin. The hint of tension brewing between the two of them is a smart setup for book two, and I'm already invested in seeing where their story goes, plus hopefully getting a glimpse of Gemma and Caitlin's happily ever after along the way.
TLDR: A dual-timeline second-chance romance that earns its emotional beats, wrapped in a celebrity romance package that never loses sight of the love story at its center.
July 26, 2026
This was such an engaging second chance romance, and a really strong debut.
The book follows Gemma and Caitlin, who first met and fell in love when they were younger. Years later, now both twenty nine and working as actors, they are brought back into each other’s lives as co stars in a lesbian romantic drama. Suddenly, they have to figure out how to exist around each other again, while carrying everything that was left unresolved ten years before.
I really liked the dual timeline. Seeing pieces of their past alongside the present helped show how much they meant to each other, but also how deeply the breakup shaped them both. Gemma especially had my heart. She is still hurt by what happened, and it is clear she has never fully been able to move on, but she still has this gorgeous sunshine energy. She knows who she is, she knows what she wants, and I loved how unapologetic she was about that.
Caitlin was a little more complicated for me. I understood that she was trying to make amends and find her way back to Gemma, but I also struggled with some of her behaviour. There were moments where her hot and cold energy made it hard for me to fully trust her, especially when Gemma had already been hurt by her once before. I did not dislike Caitlin, but I definitely found myself wanting her actions to prove more than her words.
The side characters were also a highlight. Maddie calling Caitlin out felt like true friendship, and honestly, I appreciated her for it. Hayley and Gemma’s friendship was adorable too. I loved how protective and caring Hayley was, and how much warmth she brought to Gemma’s side of the story.
My only real wish is that we had seen a little more of Gemma and Caitlin as adults before they fully moved forward. I wanted more time to see their relationship tested in the present, especially to know whether Caitlin’s actions would match her promises this time.
That said, the writing and narration were really strong, especially for a debut. The emotional messiness between Gemma and Caitlin kept me hooked, and I found myself wanting to know how they would finally work through everything.
⭐ 4 | 🌶️ 3
The book follows Gemma and Caitlin, who first met and fell in love when they were younger. Years later, now both twenty nine and working as actors, they are brought back into each other’s lives as co stars in a lesbian romantic drama. Suddenly, they have to figure out how to exist around each other again, while carrying everything that was left unresolved ten years before.
I really liked the dual timeline. Seeing pieces of their past alongside the present helped show how much they meant to each other, but also how deeply the breakup shaped them both. Gemma especially had my heart. She is still hurt by what happened, and it is clear she has never fully been able to move on, but she still has this gorgeous sunshine energy. She knows who she is, she knows what she wants, and I loved how unapologetic she was about that.
Caitlin was a little more complicated for me. I understood that she was trying to make amends and find her way back to Gemma, but I also struggled with some of her behaviour. There were moments where her hot and cold energy made it hard for me to fully trust her, especially when Gemma had already been hurt by her once before. I did not dislike Caitlin, but I definitely found myself wanting her actions to prove more than her words.
The side characters were also a highlight. Maddie calling Caitlin out felt like true friendship, and honestly, I appreciated her for it. Hayley and Gemma’s friendship was adorable too. I loved how protective and caring Hayley was, and how much warmth she brought to Gemma’s side of the story.
My only real wish is that we had seen a little more of Gemma and Caitlin as adults before they fully moved forward. I wanted more time to see their relationship tested in the present, especially to know whether Caitlin’s actions would match her promises this time.
That said, the writing and narration were really strong, especially for a debut. The emotional messiness between Gemma and Caitlin kept me hooked, and I found myself wanting to know how they would finally work through everything.
⭐ 4 | 🌶️ 3
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received an ARC of this book in exchange for providing an honest review.
Damn, so first of all, my plan was to read this at my leisure but that didn’t happen. I ended up binge reading It until the lovely end.
This is, what I believe to be, the first standalone book of an interconnected series.
First of all Caitlin….jesus, just an absolute heartbreaker of a woman.
The story is told over alternating timelines, through dual POV’s, from when the gals met in High School, their time in College and present day where they’re both successful actresses, albeit separately. The transitions between the timelines felt seamless and helped to show the progress and emotional maturity of both MC’s between past and present. The author captures the whirlwind teenage romance that I am sure many of us have had the pleasure, or displeasure of experiencing which feels so monumental at the time but looking back seemed almost trivial at times. There were so many nostalgic anecdotes thrown in for a millennial like myself I couldn’t help but laugh.
As we experience present day, the tension between the two MC’s with their yearning and mistrust was so palpable I could easily rationalize every decision/choice whether good or bad that they made.
Allow me to move on to the heartbreak, specifically Gemma…dang I really felt for her at so many different parts throughout the book. Alas, I even teared up a few times in my blindingly bright cubicle at work for all to see. Gemma’s fluctuating emotions and war with herself felt so real and raw. There is some spice throughout to progress the story and the side characters, specifically Hayley and Maddie are perfect, I can’t wait to read what happens next.
This is certainly the first of many books I will be reading by Erica Goodwin.
Dammit y’all just read it when it comes out honestly, I loved it.
I rate the book a 4.5 but Goodreads doesn’t do half points so I always round up 🤙
Damn, so first of all, my plan was to read this at my leisure but that didn’t happen. I ended up binge reading It until the lovely end.
This is, what I believe to be, the first standalone book of an interconnected series.
First of all Caitlin….jesus, just an absolute heartbreaker of a woman.
The story is told over alternating timelines, through dual POV’s, from when the gals met in High School, their time in College and present day where they’re both successful actresses, albeit separately. The transitions between the timelines felt seamless and helped to show the progress and emotional maturity of both MC’s between past and present. The author captures the whirlwind teenage romance that I am sure many of us have had the pleasure, or displeasure of experiencing which feels so monumental at the time but looking back seemed almost trivial at times. There were so many nostalgic anecdotes thrown in for a millennial like myself I couldn’t help but laugh.
As we experience present day, the tension between the two MC’s with their yearning and mistrust was so palpable I could easily rationalize every decision/choice whether good or bad that they made.
Allow me to move on to the heartbreak, specifically Gemma…dang I really felt for her at so many different parts throughout the book. Alas, I even teared up a few times in my blindingly bright cubicle at work for all to see. Gemma’s fluctuating emotions and war with herself felt so real and raw. There is some spice throughout to progress the story and the side characters, specifically Hayley and Maddie are perfect, I can’t wait to read what happens next.
This is certainly the first of many books I will be reading by Erica Goodwin.
Dammit y’all just read it when it comes out honestly, I loved it.
I rate the book a 4.5 but Goodreads doesn’t do half points so I always round up 🤙
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