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Falling Slowly #2
So Much She Never Said
Fifteen years ago, Cassie Jameson left Echo Lake without a word—after a night that changed everything—and took Brett Sullivan’s heart with her.
Now Brett is back in his hometown. He’s a successful banker. A devoted father. A man trying to rebuild his life after a divorce.
The only thing he never fixed? The heartbreak Cassie left behind.
Cassie swore she’d never return to the place that hurt her so deeply. A death in the family brings her home for one week—just long enough to reopen wounds neither of them ever truly healed. Seeing Brett again is dangerous. Wanting him still is worse.
Old love collides with buried truths, and the chemistry they once shared burns hotter than either expects. Brett wants answers about the night everything fell apart. Cassie knows some truths are easier to carry than to say out loud.
Will finally uncovering the past bring them back together…
or tear them apart for good?
A heartfelt second-chance romance about first love, unfinished business, and the risk of opening your heart when walking away once nearly destroyed you.
Now Brett is back in his hometown. He’s a successful banker. A devoted father. A man trying to rebuild his life after a divorce.
The only thing he never fixed? The heartbreak Cassie left behind.
Cassie swore she’d never return to the place that hurt her so deeply. A death in the family brings her home for one week—just long enough to reopen wounds neither of them ever truly healed. Seeing Brett again is dangerous. Wanting him still is worse.
Old love collides with buried truths, and the chemistry they once shared burns hotter than either expects. Brett wants answers about the night everything fell apart. Cassie knows some truths are easier to carry than to say out loud.
Will finally uncovering the past bring them back together…
or tear them apart for good?
A heartfelt second-chance romance about first love, unfinished business, and the risk of opening your heart when walking away once nearly destroyed you.
228 pages, Kindle Edition
Published February 20, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 26 of 26 reviews
February 22, 2026
So much she never said is right. This book is deep and emotional while also being funny and adorable. unfortunately one of the downsides is the miscommunication..
if they just talked when they were teenagers this entire book wouldn't exist. Which, I actually liked.. (SORTA) it showed how much they regretted not talking about it when it actually happened and how that drove the wedge between them.
i actually had a lot of bookmarks, highlights and notes but since i read it as a doc 😬 nothing saved 😖.. so i’ll just put some of my notes here
______________________________________________
page 26
The man whose absence reshaped the trajectory of my whole life. He doesn’t get to look at me like that anymore.
YOU LEFT HIM YOU TWIT
DO NOT GIVE ME THAT PHONY MALARKEY!! you go crying bc... "I broke his heart.." an then 2 seconds later? "HE DOES NOT GET TO LOOK AT ME THAT WAY! 😡"
ms girl please use your brain
______________________________________________
page 27
It’s only a matter of time before I completely fall apart, and I refuse to do that in front of Brett, of all people. These tears aren't about you. I want so badly to say, You don’t deserve them.
GIRLLLL WHAT DID HE DO OTHER THAN LOVE YOU AND COMPLY WITH YOUR WISHES?????
______________________________________________
page 29
“I think you should leave,” I say, jerking my chin toward the door. He scratches the back of his neck, glancing between the door and me. “Even if you don’t want dinner, I’d still like to help you and your dad.” And damn him—he means it.
what a load of phooey
______________________________________________
page 29
“What the hell just happened?”
excuse me. girl im not on your side here. a man from your past that you used to date came over and asked you out again and you just did the equivalent of spitting in his face. he was nothing but nice that entire encounter. that’s what happened.
______________________________________________
page 32
It seemed like a miracle that a girl as beautiful as Cassie liked the short, chubby guy whose only uniform was for marching band.
AWWWWWWWWW, Cassie I hate you even more now
______________________________________________
page 40
“If you… Want to grab another drink?” she says quietly. “I can explain.”
says the girl who JUST a second ago wanted to "wrap things up"
______________________________________________
page 88
“Guess I fooled you all then.”
"guess I'm just being a terrible person and blaming everything on everyone around me then" 🫣🙋♀️
______________________________________________
page 100
my jaw locking.
LOCKKKKK JAWWWW (pls get the reference)
————————————
page 104
He swallows so hard I can hear it.
"GUUULP" 🫤
______________________________________________
page 213
“God… what are we doing?” “Something we should’ve done a long time ago,” I say, brushing my forehead against hers. “Loving each other.”
I could've told you that 180 pages ago
______________________________________________
these thoughts are 100% my own,
this author is genuinely so kind and so so very talented so my rating does make me sad, but I got this ARC in exchange for an honest review and I intend to stick with it.
Ava's writing style is incredible, always setting the scene so perfectly!
these guys unfortunately have the emotional maturity of teenagers, who let them have children?? I mean, ok.. they were such good parents, but uh guys why are you giving each other the cold shoulder? you're like 40, don't you have bills to pay and 401k's to deal with?
Fortunately, the kids were so sweet and actually acted like children!
_________________________________
everyone in this book smirked. the grandma, both grandpa's, the 50 year old babysitter, random people in town, heck I wouldn't be surprised if the babies started smirking. This place should not be named Echo lake, and instead Smirksville because what was this... EVERY SINGLE PAGE HAD AT LEAST ONE SMIRK.
Thank you so much, Ava Andrews for sending me an early copy of your book,
even if I didn't enjoy it as much as the first one I still had a lot of fun!
I was so happy to have so many encounters with Emily and Adam in this book!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
if they just talked when they were teenagers this entire book wouldn't exist. Which, I actually liked.. (SORTA) it showed how much they regretted not talking about it when it actually happened and how that drove the wedge between them.
i actually had a lot of bookmarks, highlights and notes but since i read it as a doc 😬 nothing saved 😖.. so i’ll just put some of my notes here
______________________________________________
page 26
The man whose absence reshaped the trajectory of my whole life. He doesn’t get to look at me like that anymore.
YOU LEFT HIM YOU TWIT
DO NOT GIVE ME THAT PHONY MALARKEY!! you go crying bc... "I broke his heart.." an then 2 seconds later? "HE DOES NOT GET TO LOOK AT ME THAT WAY! 😡"
ms girl please use your brain
______________________________________________
page 27
It’s only a matter of time before I completely fall apart, and I refuse to do that in front of Brett, of all people. These tears aren't about you. I want so badly to say, You don’t deserve them.
GIRLLLL WHAT DID HE DO OTHER THAN LOVE YOU AND COMPLY WITH YOUR WISHES?????
______________________________________________
page 29
“I think you should leave,” I say, jerking my chin toward the door. He scratches the back of his neck, glancing between the door and me. “Even if you don’t want dinner, I’d still like to help you and your dad.” And damn him—he means it.
what a load of phooey
______________________________________________
page 29
“What the hell just happened?”
excuse me. girl im not on your side here. a man from your past that you used to date came over and asked you out again and you just did the equivalent of spitting in his face. he was nothing but nice that entire encounter. that’s what happened.
______________________________________________
page 32
It seemed like a miracle that a girl as beautiful as Cassie liked the short, chubby guy whose only uniform was for marching band.
AWWWWWWWWW, Cassie I hate you even more now
______________________________________________
page 40
“If you… Want to grab another drink?” she says quietly. “I can explain.”
says the girl who JUST a second ago wanted to "wrap things up"
______________________________________________
page 88
“Guess I fooled you all then.”
"guess I'm just being a terrible person and blaming everything on everyone around me then" 🫣🙋♀️
______________________________________________
page 100
my jaw locking.
LOCKKKKK JAWWWW (pls get the reference)
————————————
page 104
He swallows so hard I can hear it.
"GUUULP" 🫤
______________________________________________
page 213
“God… what are we doing?” “Something we should’ve done a long time ago,” I say, brushing my forehead against hers. “Loving each other.”
I could've told you that 180 pages ago
______________________________________________
these thoughts are 100% my own,
this author is genuinely so kind and so so very talented so my rating does make me sad, but I got this ARC in exchange for an honest review and I intend to stick with it.
Ava's writing style is incredible, always setting the scene so perfectly!
these guys unfortunately have the emotional maturity of teenagers, who let them have children?? I mean, ok.. they were such good parents, but uh guys why are you giving each other the cold shoulder? you're like 40, don't you have bills to pay and 401k's to deal with?
Fortunately, the kids were so sweet and actually acted like children!
_________________________________
everyone in this book smirked. the grandma, both grandpa's, the 50 year old babysitter, random people in town, heck I wouldn't be surprised if the babies started smirking. This place should not be named Echo lake, and instead Smirksville because what was this... EVERY SINGLE PAGE HAD AT LEAST ONE SMIRK.
Thank you so much, Ava Andrews for sending me an early copy of your book,
even if I didn't enjoy it as much as the first one I still had a lot of fun!
I was so happy to have so many encounters with Emily and Adam in this book!
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is a simple quick read on finding love again. It doesn't make it seem like just because years have gone by time stands still each person lives life. Coming home is not always easy and when death of a loved one is the reason you return its even harder. The pull between them never died and he does everything he can to find out why she left. When he puts a plan in motion to get her stay and to feel comfortable about being back she stops fighting it and they find the real love they have been missing.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
March 31, 2026
Opening Impression
This was one of those reads where I kept thinking, “I should be loving this more than I am.” It had all the right ingredients, but it never fully came together for me emotionally.
Brief Plot Setup (No Spoilers)
So Much She Never Said follows two former loves who are unexpectedly brought back into each other’s lives years later, both now navigating single parenthood. There is clearly unfinished business between them, layered with things left unsaid, and the story centers around whether they can reconnect and move forward with the weight of their past still lingering.
The tone leans soft and reflective, with a focus on second chances, family, and emotional healing.
Character & Relationship Highlights
The female main character feels reserved in a way that suggests she has learned to protect herself over time. You can sense there are deeper emotions under the surface, especially in how she interacts with her child and how carefully she approaches reconnecting.
The male main character comes across as more open and steady. He clearly still carries feelings from their past and is more willing to lean into those emotions, which creates an interesting contrast between them.
Their dynamic has a natural familiarity that fits the second chance trope. There are moments where their connection feels easy and lived in, especially in quieter scenes involving their kids. Those moments gave me glimpses of the relationship I wanted more of.
However, a lot of their emotional history feels distant rather than immediate. Instead of fully experiencing their past through meaningful conversations, it is often referenced in a way that feels just out of reach.
What Worked for Me
I really liked the setup. Second chance mixed with single parents is such a strong combination because it brings in maturity, responsibility, and real life stakes.
The presence of their children added warmth and grounded the story. It made their connection feel more layered, even when the romantic development itself felt a bit light.
There were also small, quiet interactions between them that felt genuine. The kind where they fall into old patterns or share a moment that shows their history without needing a lot of explanation. Those were my favorite parts.
What Didn’t Work for Me
The biggest issue for me was how vague the past remained. We are told there is history and unresolved tension, but it is not explored in enough detail to make their emotional journey feel impactful.
A lot of the conversations that should have carried weight felt rushed. Instead of sitting in those moments and really unpacking feelings, the story moves through them quickly, which made it harder to connect to their growth as a couple.
Because of that, the relationship development felt limited. I did not feel like I fully saw them rebuild trust or truly work through what separated them in the first place. It made their reconnection feel quicker and less earned than I would have liked.
Personal Preference Context
I tend to prefer romance that is very character driven, especially with second chance stories. I want to really feel the history, the hurt, and the rebuilding process.
So when those emotional layers are only lightly touched on instead of fully explored, it leaves me wanting more.
Final Verdict
This was a cute, easy read with a trope combination I genuinely enjoy, but it lacked the emotional depth I was hoping for.
If you like softer, low angst second chance romances with a focus on family, this could still work well for you. For me, it landed as a solid middle read that I liked in concept more than in execution.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
I love supporting authors and publishers and am always open to ARC opportunities. You can find me on Instagram at @alexis.redacted.
This was one of those reads where I kept thinking, “I should be loving this more than I am.” It had all the right ingredients, but it never fully came together for me emotionally.
Brief Plot Setup (No Spoilers)
So Much She Never Said follows two former loves who are unexpectedly brought back into each other’s lives years later, both now navigating single parenthood. There is clearly unfinished business between them, layered with things left unsaid, and the story centers around whether they can reconnect and move forward with the weight of their past still lingering.
The tone leans soft and reflective, with a focus on second chances, family, and emotional healing.
Character & Relationship Highlights
The female main character feels reserved in a way that suggests she has learned to protect herself over time. You can sense there are deeper emotions under the surface, especially in how she interacts with her child and how carefully she approaches reconnecting.
The male main character comes across as more open and steady. He clearly still carries feelings from their past and is more willing to lean into those emotions, which creates an interesting contrast between them.
Their dynamic has a natural familiarity that fits the second chance trope. There are moments where their connection feels easy and lived in, especially in quieter scenes involving their kids. Those moments gave me glimpses of the relationship I wanted more of.
However, a lot of their emotional history feels distant rather than immediate. Instead of fully experiencing their past through meaningful conversations, it is often referenced in a way that feels just out of reach.
What Worked for Me
I really liked the setup. Second chance mixed with single parents is such a strong combination because it brings in maturity, responsibility, and real life stakes.
The presence of their children added warmth and grounded the story. It made their connection feel more layered, even when the romantic development itself felt a bit light.
There were also small, quiet interactions between them that felt genuine. The kind where they fall into old patterns or share a moment that shows their history without needing a lot of explanation. Those were my favorite parts.
What Didn’t Work for Me
The biggest issue for me was how vague the past remained. We are told there is history and unresolved tension, but it is not explored in enough detail to make their emotional journey feel impactful.
A lot of the conversations that should have carried weight felt rushed. Instead of sitting in those moments and really unpacking feelings, the story moves through them quickly, which made it harder to connect to their growth as a couple.
Because of that, the relationship development felt limited. I did not feel like I fully saw them rebuild trust or truly work through what separated them in the first place. It made their reconnection feel quicker and less earned than I would have liked.
Personal Preference Context
I tend to prefer romance that is very character driven, especially with second chance stories. I want to really feel the history, the hurt, and the rebuilding process.
So when those emotional layers are only lightly touched on instead of fully explored, it leaves me wanting more.
Final Verdict
This was a cute, easy read with a trope combination I genuinely enjoy, but it lacked the emotional depth I was hoping for.
If you like softer, low angst second chance romances with a focus on family, this could still work well for you. For me, it landed as a solid middle read that I liked in concept more than in execution.
⭐️⭐️⭐️
I love supporting authors and publishers and am always open to ARC opportunities. You can find me on Instagram at @alexis.redacted.
February 22, 2026
Brett and Cassie’s story is such a sweet second chance romance with all the feels. Brett is a wonderful man with so many green flags and such a good heart. He deserves all the hope and happiness possible. Even with the immense pain that Cassie brought when she ran, Brett holds only goodwill toward her. Cassie, swearing she would never come back to the hometown she swore she’d never leave, ends up back in her hometown for the funeral of the woman who raised her. But for Cassie, coming home for her grandmother’s funeral isn’t the only monumental challenge she’ll face as she runs into demons from her past and from that night that changed everything between her and Brett. Cassie, understandably, wants to bury everything and anything associated with that night as deep as possible, but life has other plans as she and Brett begin to learn about each other again as well as their sons, Johnny and Jacob. As Brett and Cassie spend more time together, details from the past and from that night slowly make their way to the light. I love how the little boys are never left behind in this sweet story and how the rest of Brett and Cassie’s primary circles are so supportive and included throughout, showing that life isn’t always calm or perfect, but love is still possible.
Favorite Quotes:
“I want to see what it’s like – being here as an adult. Being here and feeling free.”
“You’re safe here…with me.”
“I love you…I don’t think I’ve ever stopped…and I’m not going to. Not again. Not ever.”
“I think we can get through anything…as long as neither of us runs. As long as we choose each other – even when it’s hard. Especially when it’s hard…. And I want a real life with you.”
“Sometimes healing takes honesty. Sometimes it takes patience. And sometimes it takes choosing not to run when things get hard.”
Favorite Quotes:
“I want to see what it’s like – being here as an adult. Being here and feeling free.”
“You’re safe here…with me.”
“I love you…I don’t think I’ve ever stopped…and I’m not going to. Not again. Not ever.”
“I think we can get through anything…as long as neither of us runs. As long as we choose each other – even when it’s hard. Especially when it’s hard…. And I want a real life with you.”
“Sometimes healing takes honesty. Sometimes it takes patience. And sometimes it takes choosing not to run when things get hard.”
Review of advance copy
To understand Brett, the Male main character, you should read the first book, So Not According to Plan (Falling Slowly #1) With that said, I read this without reading the first book, it was a little confusing at the start but you get to understand him as you continue reading.
I consider this a very slow burn, so if you're looking for very light romance, this is a good book to read for it. Also, a second chance romance as well.
Brett's high school sweet heart comes back home after leaving town 15 years ago, she struggles with something that happens in the past that happened in town and doesn't want to stay there long, just wants to help her father and go back to where she moved to, Portland. Brett has never been over her and wants to reconnect with her but scared to since she says she's only there temporarily.
The author does a good job with making this about a small village taking care of each other type, with Brett's ex still caring about him and being involved in his life. However, I didn't find it was necessarily for his ex to butt in. In the beginning, you can sense Brett feeling hurt by her happiness and what's going on with her life (don't want to spoil it for you) and struggling to find happiness in his life. Ava Andrews does a great job with letting the emotions of both characters, Brett and Cassie as they go through past history and present life's emotions with what they are struggling and going through.
I round this up to a 4 star rating, I'd give it more if it was more steamy in the sex department as that's more my cup of tea, but if you don't need the steam, then you'd probably rate it more.
I consider this a very slow burn, so if you're looking for very light romance, this is a good book to read for it. Also, a second chance romance as well.
Brett's high school sweet heart comes back home after leaving town 15 years ago, she struggles with something that happens in the past that happened in town and doesn't want to stay there long, just wants to help her father and go back to where she moved to, Portland. Brett has never been over her and wants to reconnect with her but scared to since she says she's only there temporarily.
The author does a good job with making this about a small village taking care of each other type, with Brett's ex still caring about him and being involved in his life. However, I didn't find it was necessarily for his ex to butt in. In the beginning, you can sense Brett feeling hurt by her happiness and what's going on with her life (don't want to spoil it for you) and struggling to find happiness in his life. Ava Andrews does a great job with letting the emotions of both characters, Brett and Cassie as they go through past history and present life's emotions with what they are struggling and going through.
I round this up to a 4 star rating, I'd give it more if it was more steamy in the sex department as that's more my cup of tea, but if you don't need the steam, then you'd probably rate it more.
February 19, 2026
I thoroughly enjoyed this book. It was a nice interconnected standalone in this series following one of the side characters from the first book. We get to see our MMC rekindle a love once thought lost after 15 years, and learn why the love was deemed lost. Throughout the story, you can see how impactful certain things can be during prime teenage years, prior to college. A lot of things can happen, both good and bad, and sometimes hard choices have to be made. Be aware, that this book does have sub-context of sexual assault. It is not shown on page, but as a memory of our FMC. I do believe the author handled this tough subject with care and consideration for those who will read this story. It was well written in the way that the victims are the ones who end up suffering for years, usually alone and afraid to speak up. Please know this ahead of time prior to picking it up. Although this topic is discussed, the primary focus of this love story, is that love cannot easily be forgotten. And that trust can mean a lot to people and can go a long way to make people feel safe. Even though I do feel like some of the actions of our MMC were repetitive (listening but not listening to our FMC), I think it was necessary to a point. He wanted her to feel safe. Apart from this, this story is truly a romance of rekindling that love you once had with someone, and knowing that even though it’s been years since last seeing them, sometimes you just know that they were meant for you. ☺️
Review of advance copy
A Compelling Romance Held Back by Convenient Plotting
Brett and Cassie are wonderfully drawn characters whose chemistry leaps off the page, making their love story genuinely engaging. The author deserves credit for tackling the difficult subject of trauma and its lasting effects on relationships, bringing an emotional depth that elevates this beyond typical romance fare.
However, the execution stumbles where it matters most. The second-chance romance element feels too convenient—Brett and Cassie’s reunion and rapid reconnection lack the messy complexity that real reconciliation requires. Their journey back to each other glosses over the genuine obstacles that should stand between two people with their history.
More troubling is the book’s handling of trauma itself. While the author introduces important themes around healing and recovery, the resolution feels superficial. The characters arrive at solutions that work for the plot’s timeline rather than solutions that feel psychologically authentic or sustainable. Readers familiar with trauma narratives may find themselves wishing for a more nuanced, realistic approach to such weighty subject matter—one that honors the long-term work healing actually demands.
A romance with memorable leads and good intentions, but one that ultimately chooses narrative convenience over emotional truth.
Brett and Cassie are wonderfully drawn characters whose chemistry leaps off the page, making their love story genuinely engaging. The author deserves credit for tackling the difficult subject of trauma and its lasting effects on relationships, bringing an emotional depth that elevates this beyond typical romance fare.
However, the execution stumbles where it matters most. The second-chance romance element feels too convenient—Brett and Cassie’s reunion and rapid reconnection lack the messy complexity that real reconciliation requires. Their journey back to each other glosses over the genuine obstacles that should stand between two people with their history.
More troubling is the book’s handling of trauma itself. While the author introduces important themes around healing and recovery, the resolution feels superficial. The characters arrive at solutions that work for the plot’s timeline rather than solutions that feel psychologically authentic or sustainable. Readers familiar with trauma narratives may find themselves wishing for a more nuanced, realistic approach to such weighty subject matter—one that honors the long-term work healing actually demands.
A romance with memorable leads and good intentions, but one that ultimately chooses narrative convenience over emotional truth.
May 8, 2026
Ok I really enjoyed myself reading this book. I read this after reading the third book so reading this I saw a completely different side to both Brett and Cassie and you know what, I think seeing these two had been my favourite things. The dynamic between them is refreshing in regard to what happened with them. (READ THE DAMN BOOK TO FIND OUT).
After years of being gone Cassie suddenly being back in her hometown is a shock to the system for Brett. Especially after the way she just left. But he always had wanted to know why, except maybe the answer isn’t something he expected.
Tropes:
Small town
Single parent
Second chance
Spice free
All in all if you like things sweet, where you’re pining for someone else’s love even when they may not be able to see or sense it. Then this book is for you. It made me feel all the feelings!
I also kind of felt this on a more personal level, I’d tell you but it would spoil it ha.
Also I cried. It’s not often that happens for me. So take that as you will.
Cannot wait to read the next!
After years of being gone Cassie suddenly being back in her hometown is a shock to the system for Brett. Especially after the way she just left. But he always had wanted to know why, except maybe the answer isn’t something he expected.
Tropes:
Small town
Single parent
Second chance
Spice free
All in all if you like things sweet, where you’re pining for someone else’s love even when they may not be able to see or sense it. Then this book is for you. It made me feel all the feelings!
I also kind of felt this on a more personal level, I’d tell you but it would spoil it ha.
Also I cried. It’s not often that happens for me. So take that as you will.
Cannot wait to read the next!
Review of advance copy received from Author
ARC REVIEW
Brett and Cassie dated in high school, but one night sends Cassie running anywhere but Echo Lake, becoming the one who got away. 15 years later, Brett, a divorced father, hears Cassie is back in town. Single mom, Cassie is back for the first time in 15 years and Brett is determined to show her how unchanged and strong their love is while unraveling the truth behind that one night.
I enjoyed this quick read as I am a huge fan of second-chance romances and found themes similar to Love and Other Words.
I received this ARC for free and this review is my honest, unbiased opinion.
Brett and Cassie dated in high school, but one night sends Cassie running anywhere but Echo Lake, becoming the one who got away. 15 years later, Brett, a divorced father, hears Cassie is back in town. Single mom, Cassie is back for the first time in 15 years and Brett is determined to show her how unchanged and strong their love is while unraveling the truth behind that one night.
I enjoyed this quick read as I am a huge fan of second-chance romances and found themes similar to Love and Other Words.
I received this ARC for free and this review is my honest, unbiased opinion.
February 23, 2026
Book 2 of the Falling Slowly: A Second Chance Series. Can be read as a standalone.
'A heartfelt second-chance romance about first love, unfinished business, and the risk of opening your heart when walking away once nearly destroyed you.'
The characters were so very appealing and likeable and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and well paced. World building continues to excel and impress. All in all a great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend
Kick back and enjoy the read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
'A heartfelt second-chance romance about first love, unfinished business, and the risk of opening your heart when walking away once nearly destroyed you.'
The characters were so very appealing and likeable and complicated and absolutely perfect together. Plot was intriguing and well paced. World building continues to excel and impress. All in all a great addition to the series. Enjoyed immensely and highly recommend
Kick back and enjoy the read!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
February 26, 2026
loved it !! love this series !! love Cassie and Brett... this is their second chance love story... a well paced rom/drama... once they had a future together.. that was a long time ago... the incident that tore them apart.. she left town and him behind.. no note ..no nothing.. and broke his heart... now, years later.. he lives in town with his son.. she's back for a week with her son for the funeral of her grandmother...it's all there when they meet again... the broken hearts.. the love still there... and the hurt... so good !!.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
May 1, 2026
So Much She Never Said is a heartfelt small-town romance that perfectly blends emotional depth, humor, and healing. Ava Andrews has captured a story that feels both warm and raw. Two people who were burned by the past but once again find exactly what they always needed in each other. This book isn’t just about love; it’s about forgiveness, self-worth, standing up, speaking out and the courage to start over. Cassie and Brett’s story had me completely hooked from the start equal parts tender, at times frustrating, but a deeply emotional kind of love story that sneaks up on you and stays in your heart long after it ends.
February 25, 2026
I loved the strength and fortitude that the FMC had. She lived through something traumatic and came out stronger. The MMC showed his love, strength and patience once the truth came out. He always loved the FMC and he waited patiently for her to come out the other side of her trauma. Second chances are my favorite trope. I love strong FMCs and MMCs who show strength through their love. I highly recommend this book to all second chance romance readers.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
March 26, 2026
So Much she Never Said: Falling Slowly (Book 2) by Eva Andrews is a heartfelt second‑chance romance about facing the past to heal. Cassie left her beloved town—and Brett—because of painful memories, but returning for her grandmother’s funeral forces her to confront everything she tried to leave behind. The emotional tension between grief and love, makes this story compelling, and the journey toward rediscovery feels both tender and earned.
A touching storyline of love, loss, and second chances.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
A touching storyline of love, loss, and second chances.
I received a free copy of this book via Booksprout and am voluntarily leaving a review.
Review of advance copy
A nice and engaging book about second chances. Itˋs an easy read, and itˋs easy to picture everything that happens. Even though it has a romantic feel-good vibe, it also adresses serious themes, which I think the author handled well.
An enjoyable and easy to read book thats perfect for those who like romantic novels. I recommend reading book 1 "so not according to plan" before starting this one.
I received an advance review copy for free, and I am leaving this review voluntarily.
Review of advance copy received from Author
this is such a good second chance romance. this follows the story of Brett and Cassie. Brett is a banker with a toddler who runs back into his high school sweetheart Cassie and her baby after not seeing or speaking is 15 years.
Cassie is still running from her past and doesnt believe she deserves Brett. Brett is trying to figure out what happened 15 years ago and how to help Cassie to realize she is safe and that he is still in love with her.
This story has a very cute and beautiful HEA.
Cassie is still running from her past and doesnt believe she deserves Brett. Brett is trying to figure out what happened 15 years ago and how to help Cassie to realize she is safe and that he is still in love with her.
This story has a very cute and beautiful HEA.
February 23, 2026
This was a sweet second chance romance for Brett and Cassie. He wants answers and she needs to explain. I loved that Brett was able to have patience and kindness towards Cassie as she slowly built up to telling him what happened. And once these Terry got past all of that, I was so happy for them. This was a wonderful story.
April 2, 2026
This is a quick read about second chances and proving what's meant to be will always find away. This was truly a simple romance read with all the annoyance and a wide range of emotions as Brett and Cassie work through the past to reconnect. It was a great read with a lot of facepalms throughout but great read. I liked the way Brett and Emily had developed a friendship.
February 9, 2026
this book was everything . i loved the development of the characters . also just the way this book was wrote?? it’s perfect . this was such an easy read . I fell inlove with the characters so easily !!
I received an ARC copy for this book for free and am willingly leaving a review
I received an ARC copy for this book for free and am willingly leaving a review
Review of advance copy received from Author
This is book 2 of a series and it’s a short day or 2 read.. I would say to read book 1 dots so you get the back story on Brett’s life .. it’s a cute story about second chance love and happiness and how eve thou your divorced that love still has a chance
Review of advance copy
This is a contemporary romance with the main characters of Cassie and Brett. They grew up in a small town and attended the same school. She came from a struggling background with a single parent and this led to a lot of bullying in her school days.
Brett was a shy and quiet young man who was grateful for Cassie's friendship. Their relationship turned into love and they were planning a future together when a tragedy drove them apart.
Cassie left town for over a decade to put some distance between her and bad memories. By the time they meet again both Cassie and Brett are single parents. They slowly resume a cautious friendship while navigating a minefield of misunderstandings and secrets.
In the end Cassie and Brett build a stronger foundation to their new relationship with elements of deep love and staunch loyalty. The main characters showed immense growth in the storyline while the supporting characters were truly admirable 💗
Highly recommend 👍🏻
Brett was a shy and quiet young man who was grateful for Cassie's friendship. Their relationship turned into love and they were planning a future together when a tragedy drove them apart.
Cassie left town for over a decade to put some distance between her and bad memories. By the time they meet again both Cassie and Brett are single parents. They slowly resume a cautious friendship while navigating a minefield of misunderstandings and secrets.
In the end Cassie and Brett build a stronger foundation to their new relationship with elements of deep love and staunch loyalty. The main characters showed immense growth in the storyline while the supporting characters were truly admirable 💗
Highly recommend 👍🏻
Review of advance copy
Good read. Second chance romance. Past trauma
Review of advance copy received from Author
So Much She Never Said by Ava Andrews. This is book two in the series and picks up right where book one ends. It awesome to get the see Brett get his HEA. The emotional battle Cassie goes through facing a terrible past is so heart wrenching. This is a feel good super sweet romance that just makes you smile. While the spice level is 0 it definitely delivers on the story and emotions. I definitely recommend if you are looking for a quick read with a great story.
February 25, 2026
I love that Brett gets his story, and it’s a very good one, the way he takes steps to make sure she is always good, is so sweet and understanding.
this is book two and recommend reading book one first just to get the full story, but you don’t have to.
it’s an easy quick read, and the writing is good.
this is book two and recommend reading book one first just to get the full story, but you don’t have to.
it’s an easy quick read, and the writing is good.
Did Not Finish
June 22, 2026With rare exceptions, I don't give star ratings to books I don't finish. I struggled to connect with the characters in this one, and found myself struggling to want to read this one, so I shelved it.
Review of advance copy received from Author
I received this book from the author as an ARC. A cute, small town, second-chance at love story.
Cassie survived one of the worst traumas women suffer but was still full of guilt and pain for something she could barely remember. The author handled that considerately and with empathy.
Loved the happy ending! Looking forward to reading more of Ava's work.
Cassie survived one of the worst traumas women suffer but was still full of guilt and pain for something she could barely remember. The author handled that considerately and with empathy.
Loved the happy ending! Looking forward to reading more of Ava's work.
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