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Love Once Forgotten: A Later-Life Second-Chance Romance Novel

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399 pages, Kindle Edition

Published February 28, 2026

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Sha Bee

4 books9 followers

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5 stars
15 (62%)
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9 (37%)
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Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews
Profile Image for Monika.
95 reviews7 followers
May 7, 2026
This was my first time reading a romance like this and honestly, it felt so refreshing. In a world where so many romances focus heavily on lust and instant attraction this felt soft, warm and deeply emotional. There was so much love in this story. Mature love. Patient love. The kind that quietly wraps around your heart

What I loved most was how calming this book felt. Some romances feel like chaos and storms, full of angst and destruction, but this one felt like peace after a long tiring day. Gentle, soothing and full of comfort. Veera and Meera’s relationship was built on understanding, memories, companionship and emotional intimacy, which made every interaction between them feel meaningful.

And Ishaan I absolutely adored him. I’ve always loved this name, but this character made me love it even more. He was affectionate, playful, warm, caring and so easy to get attached to. There was something incredibly comforting about him and the bond he shared with Meera melted my heart. He deserved every bit of the love and warmth she gave him.

Veera and Meera together were simply heartwarming. Watching two people carry years of pain, loneliness and unfinished emotions yet still find their way back to love was beautiful. Their story proves that love doesn’t lose its magic with age. If anything, it becomes deeper, calmer and more genuine.

This book didn’t try to overwhelm with dramatic twists. Instead, it gave quiet moments, healing conversations, lingering emotions and a love that felt safe. And honestly that’s what made it unforgettable for me.

And now I’m officially curious about Sheebani and Akshat’s story because the little glimpses i got of the book 1 were NOT enough for me. The chemistry, the tension, the history between them already feels so promising.

After finishing Love Once Forgotten, I didn’t expect myself to get this attached to the side characters too, but here we are. Sheebani especially stood out to me. There’s something about her that feels strong yet emotionally layered and I really want to see what her journey looks like when she becomes the center of the story.

And Akshat? The small moments were enough to make me interested. I already sense the emotional depth and longing that their story might carry.

If Veera and Meera’s story felt like warmth and healing, I have a feeling Sheebani and Akshat’s romance might bring a completely different kind of intensity and I’m honestly so ready for it.
At this point, I’m way too emotionally invested in this universe.
3 reviews
May 3, 2026
When I first picked up Love Once Forgotten, I thought I was diving into yet another simple story about a second chance at love. But boy, was I in for a surprise! Veera and Meera are far from your typical characters; they've faced their share of struggles, heartaches, and triumphs. The way their past rivalry is explored feels refreshingly mature.

As I read, I could almost feel the tension in the air during those early interactions. They were polite and respectful, yet there was this underlying caution in how they navigated their relationship. It wasn’t an instant connection; it took time for Veera and Meera to let their guards down and truly connect.

The author has a thoughtful writing style that draws you in, encouraging you to ponder the significance behind each line and thought. Meera stands out as a strong, independent character shaped by her life experiences, carrying herself with such grace. On the other hand, Veera’s emotional struggles make him even more intriguing as he slowly starts to reveal his true self.

While the plot doesn’t throw any shocking twists your way, it takes its sweet time to unveil the depth of these characters. The beauty of this novel lies in its simplicity. Instead of dramatic confrontations, it offers gentle moments of realization. There’s a quiet intimacy in their exchanges, where you can almost hear the silence, the hesitation in trusting one another, and the careful steps toward being vulnerable.

Veera’s past looms over him, while Meera’s journey is marked by selflessness and resilience. Watching them confront their histories with understanding rather than anger felt incredibly genuine.

I also loved how this book embraces aging in a positive light. Their romance isn’t impulsive; it’s thoughtful and grounded in years of wisdom and experience.

I wouldn’t hesitate to recommend this novel to anyone looking for a heartfelt exploration of love and personal growth.
14 reviews1 follower
March 5, 2026
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️

Some stories entertain you for a while.
And then there are stories that quietly stay with you.

Love Once Forgotten was that kind of book for me.

At its heart, this is not just a romance—it’s a story about timing, courage, and the quiet ways love finds its way back into our lives when we least expect it.

The story gently introduces us to characters who have already lived through responsibilities, choices, and emotional scars. They are not chasing love the way younger protagonists often do in romance novels. Instead, they carry years of experience, hesitation, and wisdom. Watching them slowly open up to the possibility of connection again felt incredibly authentic and deeply moving.

What I appreciated most about this book is its understanding that love is not always loud or dramatic. Sometimes it is patient. Sometimes it waits quietly in the background until the right moment arrives. The relationships in the story unfold slowly and naturally, allowing the emotional depth to build in a way that feels honest rather than rushed.

The narrative also beautifully touches on themes of second chances, found family, and emotional healing. Each interaction between the characters adds another layer to the story, making their journey feel intimate and meaningful.

Without revealing too much, the story follows individuals whose paths cross at unexpected moments in life—moments that slowly reshape their understanding of love, companionship, and belonging.

Love Once Forgotten reminded me that love does not always arrive when life begins.
Sometimes it arrives after life has already happened.

And perhaps that is what makes it even more powerful.

This is a story about patience, timing, and the quiet courage it takes to let love find you again.

A beautiful and thoughtful read that lingers long after the final page.
Profile Image for AuthorHood.
104 reviews5 followers
March 13, 2026
This book is a beautiful beautiful reminder that even second chances in love can find their way to happy ending🫶
Sometimes, life has our paths twisted in the most unexpected ways and what begins as a first love can take an entire lifetime to finally come full circle!
This story revolves around Meera and Veera...two people who knew each other for years but never truly acknowledged the love that lingered between them. While the male lead silently loved her, Meera tried to ignore those feelings, unaware of how fate would bring them back together again.

Set in India of the 50s, the story carries a nostalgic charm. It portrays how two people who never married and lived their separate lives eventually cross paths again through an unexpected moment and that chance encounter becomes the beginning of something beautiful🤌

One of the most touching aspects of the book is the role of the children in their lives.
Veera raises a child who is actually from his fling, while Meera dedicates her entire life to raising her late best friend’s daughter after her friend passes away in an accident.
Their choices show immense strength, compassion and responsibility🫶

What I loved most is the message the book delivers...
"Sometimes the people who truly care for us and stand by us are not connected by blood, but by love and loyalty"!!

This story is more than just romance...
It’s about family, sacrifice, second chances and the beauty of unexpected bonds✨

Absolutely loved it!
It was a wonderful wonderful read and knowing that it’s part of a series makes me even more excited.
Just can't wait to read the next part🤩
Profile Image for Shruti Gupta.
497 reviews4 followers
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 20, 2026
4.5🌟
I found this one to be the best Sha Bee work so far.
Meera was a character I had very mixed feelings about in book 1 of the series, i.e., Sheebani's book. But she definitely redeemed herself in this book and I wholeheartedly fell in love with her.
This book is a proof that there's no right or appropriate age to fall in love.

"To the soul who believes, gray hair, wrinkled skin, hands with worn-out fingerprints, and a hunched back cannot control the ability to love and to be loved."

I never thought we'll get a character like Veera, who, as soon as he entered, was immediately perfect for Meera.
Two people with so much history? Best type of romance. their past dates made me laugh so hard.

"They were no longer strangers. There were two people with pages left unfinished. And fate, it seemed, had just reopened the book."

Found family? Check.
Slow burn? Check.
Two people with so much history? Check.

"Two souls who had lived, lost, and bravely chosen love again.
It felt as if time had folded in on itself, bringing them back together in a way that felt both familiar and new. Love once forgotten, rekindled over the years, showed the resilience of their bond.
Together, they rewrote the story of their love, an enduring tale of reunion and forever written in the wrinkles of time."

I CANNOT WAIT FOR THE ROMANCE IN BOOK 3 AND THE AUTHOR HERSELF KNOWS HOW EXCITED I AM, BECAUSE, GUESS WHO'S BETA READING BOOK 3 ALREADY? ✋️✋️✋️✋️✋️
Author 2 books5 followers
March 14, 2026
I have been a big fan of author Sha Bee ever since reading the first book in this series, 10 Hours to Forever, which unfolds largely on an aircraft. Naturally, I was delighted to discover the second book, Love Once Forgotten.

My excitement stemmed from two simple ideas the story explores so beautifully. First, there is something wonderfully romantic about the possibility of the man of your dreams being seated right next to you on a long-haul flight. Second—and perhaps even more meaningful—the novel reminds us that life, love, and new beginnings do not end at 50, 60, or any age beyond that.

Sha Bee has a remarkable ability to craft characters that feel real and linger in your mind long after the last page is turned. She achieves this once again through the journeys of Veera and Meera, supported by memorable characters such as Sheebani, Sharada, Krishnan, and Ishaan. Each personality adds depth and warmth to the story.

The plot itself moves at an engaging pace. Just when a situation appears to be heading toward a familiar romantic trope, the author introduces an unexpected turn that keeps the narrative fresh and intriguing.

I particularly enjoyed the novel’s unusual twists and its mature, thoughtfully written romantic moments. It is a heartfelt story that will appeal to romance readers—especially those who appreciate stories about love, second chances, and the courage to embrace life at any stage.

Highly recommended.
Profile Image for Sadiyah Khan.
78 reviews2 followers
March 19, 2026
This book was such a wholesome and emotional read—I genuinely loved it so much.

Veera and Meera’s story felt so mature and refreshing. It’s not often you come across a love story like this, where the characters have lived full lives, carried pain, responsibilities, and still find something so soft and meaningful again. Their journey from rivals to something so warm and understanding was beautiful to witness.

What really touched my heart was Veera’s bond with his son. The way their relationship was portrayed felt so genuine and comforting. And when Meera slowly became a part of that space, the way both of them welcomed her—it just felt so natural and heartwarming.

I also loved seeing Meera’s emotional side unfold. Her bond with Sheebani and the way she finally allowed herself to show affection and vulnerability added so much depth to her character. It made her feel real, not just strong but human. And not to forget the sibling bond between Meera's daughter and Veera’s son—it was honestly so adorable. Their interactions brought such a light, wholesome energy to the story and balanced out the emotional depth really well.

The entire story had this soft, comforting vibe, but also moments that hit you emotionally. And the ending? So wholesome. It left me with such a warm feeling.

This is one of those stories that quietly stays with you. Cute, emotional, and deeply comforting—absolutely loved this one.
28 reviews3 followers
May 6, 2026

I recently finished reading Love Once Forgotten and honestly, it is one of those stories that just stays with youin the sofest and the most beautiful way that will make you read it again and again. It is everything about calm, reality, and comfort.

Veera and Meera’s story felt mature and refreshing to me . It’s not about perfect people, but about two souls who’ve lived, made mistakes, carried their pain, and still somehow find their way back to something meaningful. And the amaziest part?? Nothing feels hasty. It unfolds its emotional calmly and in a soothing manner.

What I'm in love with?? Was the Father and son duo, absolutely lovable and comforting. And watching Meera making her own stepping into their little world to make it more better and brighter was just so wholesome and beautiful.
Her growth, her emotions, her softness, it all felt so real and relatable.

This story gently reminds you that love can't be forgotten it stays ddep into the heart of lovers till the death aparts them. Love isn’t always about new beginnings… sometimes, it’s about finding your way back, in the most unexpected and beautiful way.

Overall it is an amazing, heartfelt and sweet story. A must read book with the every emotion perfectly woven into the threads of the book
63 reviews
Review of advance copy received from Author
February 14, 2026
'Love Once Forgotten ' by Shabee is a beautiful romance novel. It revolves around the characters 'Meera' and 'Veera' who are in their mid-50s. The central theme of this book is second chance romance and later-in-life romance.

Both the main leads had their own painful journey so when they reunite and fall in love in their mid-50s it is emotional and heartwarming to read.

Their chemistry is just amazing and every scene between them is so well written that you feel content to read the intense love between them.It is a cozy read and nothing feels rushed. Their bond and conversations between them feels natural and are portrayed in a realistic way.

This story breaks the taboo that Love can only happen at a certain age and time. It shows that age is just a number and every person has their own right time to fall in love.

Though this is a book 2 in 'Hearts in Hiding' series it can be read as a standalone. I am excited for book 3 which will be on the character 'Ishaan'.

This book felt like a warm hug to me and healed something inside me. It feels so good to read such stories which are tender, positive and gives you hope that people can fall in Love at any age.❤️
Profile Image for Miss Lectiophile.
79 reviews3 followers
March 11, 2026
This is a warm and emotional story about second chances, healing and rediscovering love later in life.

The story follows Meera and Veera, who meet again in their mid 50s after years of separation, carrying memories, pain and unfinished emotions from the past. Watching their bond slowly rebuild through quiet conversations, shared moments and understanding felt very real and heartfelt.

What I loved most is how mature and gentle the story feels. This is not about young love or dramatic twists, but about two people who have lived through life, loss and responsibilities, yet still find space in their hearts for love again. The story also beautifully explores family relationships, grief and new beginnings.

The supporting characters like Sheebani, Akshat, Ananya and little Ishaan add warmth and depth to the narrative, making the story feel even more comforting and wholesome.

The writing style is simple yet emotional, and it makes the reader feel connected to the characters and their journey.

If you enjoy mature, slow burn romances about healing, family, and second chances, this book is definitely worth reading.
Profile Image for Lonaaa.
64 reviews3 followers
March 10, 2026
This book 'Love Once Forgotten' by Sha Bee is a heartfelt, painstakingly beautiful narration of love, longing, grief and regrets weaved so neatly into this plot.

The plot follows two people, Veera and Meera, in their fifties, carrying old heartbreaks and quiet regrets, suddenly crossing paths again after decades apart.

Meera, a strong single mom to her bestfriend's daughter, Sheebani, and Veera, a widowed man who left everything behind long ago, for a woman who tainted his beliefs of love.

Both thought love was done with them. But fate has other plans.

This sweet second-chance romance is gentle and so real. It steals heart with those lingering looks full of memories, healing conversations, and a warm circle of friend's memories and two supportive kids, Sheebani & Ishaan, showing how someone rediscovers the person, who once meant everything to them.

It's perfect if you love heartfelt stories about mature love, forgiveness, and starting over later in life. A comforting, feel-good read that stays with you, reminding us it's never too late for a happy ending.
Author 5 books6 followers
March 6, 2026
Love Once Forgotten revolves around gentle love, forgotten emotions and past and a found family.

FL surrounded by insecurities always trying be a good example for her daughter and then she meets the ML, the cool guy.

They both have only one similarities—single parent. One revolves around strict rules and one is just off the edge, all about we live life. And deep down both carries deep grief of losing their loved ones, betrayal.

Half of the book was all about catching upto past and reminiscing emotions but Ishaan's character made it worth while. He balanced Meera's worries and Veera's smug remarks and there bloomed love.

Sheebani, her fiancé, Ananya and Ishaan added flavors to the book making it so much more interesting. I enjoyed the book especially the point that reminded that love can bloomed anywhere and in anyone. It's not something forbidden. So if you love cozy love, and characters who still have teenage years in them then this one is for you!
209 reviews4 followers
March 7, 2026
This is a slow burn romance having mature characters with second chance, healing and a love that arrives exactly when it is meant to happen.

The characters are not young people discovering love for the first time but people who knew each other, and meet again after a long span of years. The narrative follows Veera and Meera who reunite in their mid 50's carrying the love, pain, memories and unfinished feelings they shared before.This is a tale of a mother rediscovering, love, a daughter stepping into a new life and a son confronting painful truths. A story of relationships, it has powerful moments that bind a family together.

The heartfelt emotional tale beautifully portrays that love doesn't fade with age but becomes stronger and more meaningful. I particularly liked the soft, honest moments and the bond between the characters, their conversations which didn't feel dramatic. A comforting story about cozy love which embraces new beginnings and undeniable connections.
Profile Image for Nupur.
540 reviews15 followers
March 28, 2026
I recently read Love Once Forgotten by Shabee, and it’s one of those quiet stories that slowly settles into your heart.
It doesn’t try to be dramatic or overwhelming. Instead, it feels soft… almost like a memory you didn’t realise you were holding onto.
The story follows Meera and Veera, who meet again years later, carrying a love that was never really gone, just buried under time, choices, and silence. And that’s what makes this book feel so real. It’s not about falling in love for the first time, but about finding it again when you thought life had already moved on.
What I loved most is how mature everything feels. The emotions aren’t loud, but they’re deep. There’s regret, there’s warmth, and there’s this quiet hope that maybe love doesn’t fade… it just waits for the right moment to come back.
It’s a slow read, but in the best way.
It makes you pause, feel, and reflect.
Not every love story is about beginnings.
Some are about returns.
Profile Image for Nivetha.
72 reviews
May 16, 2026
❤️ One of the beautiful story I've read.

The story starts with Meera, running away from their parent and her so called home where she was just one among. She flies to her so called safe space.

😌 What turns out to be safe space changes her life all at once.

On other hand is Veera, a charmer and handsome young man. The story flies to present where Veera is fifty-eight widower and Meera fifty-three unmarried.

🌼 The story is filled with emotions and love. Initially I too felt a little awkward how it would be to accept such love. But then this book changed my mindset totally.

Meera and Veera loved their love for their not so family by blood but by love. If you're someone who loves character and emotion driven stories, then this is for you.

❤️ Lesson learnt - Love doesn't come only in twenties but at an unexpected time.
Love doesn't have an age. Be it twenty or fifty, love is always a feeling to be discovered.
Profile Image for Anushka Yadav.
71 reviews3 followers
March 9, 2026
Book Review - Love once Forgotten

Firstly, the title was justified throughout the book , secondly I've never read something like "later life" second chance romance ❤️ . But I've always wondered how would it feel and tbh I loved every word of this book .

So we have Meera (The FMC ) and Veera (The MMC ) who had past with each other (not so good ) but in present when they again meet accidentally, life happens this time .
I loved how this book talks about acceptance, family , love , being present and Healing.

P.s. - This book was such a treat to my brain 🧠 (my traumatic brain is happy now )

Rating - 4.5/5 ⭐
34 reviews2 followers
May 20, 2026
The book is a culmination of years of loanliness being evaporated when in presence of the right person is never a late fulfilment of life. The book revolves around veera and Meera who are well past there times as adults bordering the status of senior citizenship what common factor lines them is there loanliness , to the word they are functioning adults to themselves shel of the past that shaped there life's trajectory , the bond though bound to form would take a turn so fulfilling they never knew nir did we. The book highlights how the increase in age dosnt mean maturing it also means needing that one hand which chooses to never leave
Profile Image for Viswa.
28 reviews2 followers
March 14, 2026
It's really a beautiful story, the author way of expressing the words in emotions of life is a treat to readers.i have never read the protagonist who is 50's so it's really eye opening for sure. it's a ride straight to heart . Meera for her strict but sweet personality ,veera for his charming but stoic personality is combination of perfection. you never know how time went by as the story flows. The love is not perfect but always special even if time is taking,is what the story tells you. overall it worth your ever single second of reads ❤️❤️❤️.
8 reviews1 follower
April 29, 2026
A smooth and well-paced second chance romance .

A smooth and well-paced second chance romance where emotions unfold naturally without feeling rushed. The story handles the return of the past in a grounded way, adding depth to the narrative. Veera and Meera’s relationship stands out for its maturity and quiet understanding, while the evolving bond between Veera and Ishaan brings a strong emotional layer, especially as they reconnect as father and son when old truths resurface. A steady and thoughtful read centered on love, family, and healing.
Author 3 books5 followers
April 29, 2026
Heartfelt Second Chance Romance

A touching second chance romance that I truly enjoyed. The story explores the meaning of love through companionship, support, and emotional connection.

Veera and Meera’s bond felt warm and genuine, and I liked how they stood by each other. Ishaan and Meera’s relationship was natural and comforting, especially the moment he calls her maa.

A simple and emotional read that stays with you.
52 reviews
May 18, 2026
It's a very sweet love story of two characters falling in love all over again...but this time without any hurdles🤞
Their past was real painful...where one suffered a betrayal while other tried to live for the sake of a child!! Now both were in their fifties, trying to live with peace but one encounter with each other and everything comes undone🙌
They remember it all...his little flirting and her stomping over him🤌
Slowly...they fall in love with each other...again🌹
Profile Image for Ishani Chowdhury.
192 reviews
May 22, 2026
This book literally barged into my life and I'm glad it did. So very grateful for receiving this one. So the story is about two mature self made people who belonged to a small village in India but had taked great leaps once they left their hometown. But that's not what you need to focus on.They met I guess 20-30 years later on a flight and for some reason, Veera offered our girl, now a mom to a full grown girl to stay with his family.But Meera literally found a loving family in Veera and his son. This form of sensible yet cute romance was a newbie for me, but I relly enjoyed reading their nuances and saw their love grow.
Profile Image for aamireads.
70 reviews5 followers
March 29, 2026
This story unfolds with a rare emotional richness, following Meera, Veera, Sheebani, Akshat and Ishaan as they navigate love, healing and the quiet courage it takes to begin again. What makes it compelling is how deeply human each moment feels—weddings that are intimate rather than grand, families that form through choice as much as blood and relationships that grow not from perfection but from vulnerability. The narrative captures the beauty of second chances especially for characters in their 40s and 50s, showing that love doesn’t fade with age—it deepens.

The heart of the story lies in its relationships: a mother rediscovering love, a daughter stepping into a new life, a son confronting painful truths and a little boy who becomes the emotional glue between worlds. The warmth of small-town traditions, the tenderness of rituals and the gentle acceptance from Akshat’s family create a backdrop that feels both comforting and transformative. Without relying on dramatic twists, the story shines through its emotional honesty and the quiet, powerful moments that bind people together.

While reading I felt like it's an uplifting tale about healing old wounds, embracing new beginnings and finding family in unexpected places. It leaves you with a sense of hope—reminding you that love, no matter when it arrives can still feel like destiny.
Profile Image for Nupur Jha.
Author 3 books4 followers
May 8, 2026
Love Once Forgotten by Shabee is a simple, emotional read that focuses on second chances.
It follows Meera and Veera, who reconnect years later and realise that some feelings don’t really disappear, they just stay hidden.
The story is calm, realistic, and doesn’t rely on heavy drama. Instead, it highlights mature love, unspoken emotions, and the idea that it’s never too late to feel something again.
A quiet, comforting read about love that stands the test of time.
Displaying 1 - 24 of 24 reviews