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Right Where You Left Me: A Brother's Best Friend Forced Proximity Romance
2004 was the year of MySpace, digital cameras, and pop punk—and the year Ivy met her brother’s best friend, Paxton.
What started as innocent teenage longing turned into years of near-misses, lingering glances, and what-ifs. One night, a kiss tipped everything over the edge, leading to a passionate lapse of judgment and a fallout that ended in heartache and silence.
Now in their thirties, Ivy and Paxton find themselves reunited in the most unexpected standing side by side in her brother’s wedding party.
For Paxton, life has taken a turn. Early retirement from the NHL and a devastating family health crisis have left him searching for solid ground. Seeing Ivy again sparks something familiar—comfort, longing, and the one thing he thought he hope.
But Ivy isn’t the girl he left behind. Fiercely independent and guarded, she’s not ready to hand over her heart to the man who once broke it.
Can they rewrite their story and find healing in the wreckage of the past? Or are some second chances meant to stay in the rearview?
Perfect for fans of second chances, brother’s best friend, and slow-burn romance, Right Where You Left Me is a heart-tugging love story about timing, healing, and the one that you never let go. Don’t miss your chance to fall for Ivy and Paxton—grab your copy today.
What started as innocent teenage longing turned into years of near-misses, lingering glances, and what-ifs. One night, a kiss tipped everything over the edge, leading to a passionate lapse of judgment and a fallout that ended in heartache and silence.
Now in their thirties, Ivy and Paxton find themselves reunited in the most unexpected standing side by side in her brother’s wedding party.
For Paxton, life has taken a turn. Early retirement from the NHL and a devastating family health crisis have left him searching for solid ground. Seeing Ivy again sparks something familiar—comfort, longing, and the one thing he thought he hope.
But Ivy isn’t the girl he left behind. Fiercely independent and guarded, she’s not ready to hand over her heart to the man who once broke it.
Can they rewrite their story and find healing in the wreckage of the past? Or are some second chances meant to stay in the rearview?
Perfect for fans of second chances, brother’s best friend, and slow-burn romance, Right Where You Left Me is a heart-tugging love story about timing, healing, and the one that you never let go. Don’t miss your chance to fall for Ivy and Paxton—grab your copy today.
456 pages, Paperback
Published February 6, 2026
5 people are currently reading
56 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 52 reviews
March 4, 2026
4.5 stars. Any book that can initially give me the ick over the MMC but then have me crying happy tears at the end can go ahead and take these well deserved stars.
The Present: "I scoured the nation, making my way from mattress to mattress, date to date, hoping to find someone who remotely makes me feel the way Ivy did. But not a single soul has come close."
Ick.
The Past: "In fact, I’m gonna need to start hitting up more girls in your school because I’m running out of options at mine.”
Ickkkkk.
This guy is a manwh0re from at least age 14 onward and this book never misses an opportunity to tell us about it. Literally throughout the entire book we're reminded in multiple ways about how much ass this guy gets, and how he uses it to cope with his feelings and longing and loneliness. I'm putting this at the beginning of my review because this is normally a turn off for me (idc what happens before the relationship with the other MC but I don't want it shoved in my face like this), but I still enjoyed the rest of the story regardless. Just know that it's there......
The Present: “You want to be in a relationship with someone? The guy who can’t even remember how many threesomes he’s had and never wanted to commit to someone? Never gonna happen.”
Anyway, this book was so good. From the FMC's unrequited love as a pre-teen, to the MMC's changing feelings as a teen, to their time as adults deciding to have a fling thinking they could just move past it afterwards (though he NEVER intended to move past it). This is the angst stuff I love reading, and it's made all the better because you can tell in their chapters how completely lost they each are for the other person.
"I now know why it’s called a crush. Because wanting a person you can never have destroys you bit by bit."
"I could never tell if Pax liked me back, and truthfully, I’m still not sure. But I know he doesn’t hesitate to be with other girls, so that should be a sign that he most certainly doesn’t think of me the way I think of him."
Still ick on that part. I should note that he's not like this once he sees her again as an adult, and he had always planned to win her back, but he did let 15 years go by without ever reaching out to her, so I do still have some side eye reserved for him.
"A fuse gets lit inside me. It’s small but mighty, and although I might always have a crush on Paxton, I don’t want to be the girl who waits for him when he waits for no one. 2007 is the year I’m going to start building my confidence."
YES GIRL. This is the energy I like to see. She pined over him for so long and then decided she wanted to live her life too. Love that for her.
Side note: don't appreciate that no one in 15+ years could ever make her come though. She was how many others, but only had orgasms with the MMC, meanwhile we know for sure he got off often. I effing hate that trope every time it happens. Points for letting her have a sex life outside of him, but they're taken away for doing her dirty like that.
Random note: They make Facebook accounts when FB is new even they're 15/17, except when Facebook first started, you had to have a college email account to get on there. They didn't open it to the public until later.
"This is what I want. I want to know who Ivy is now. I want to witness her growth, see her in her element, and take note of how much she has evolved into an incredible woman over the years."
Yes, this is the energy I want from the MMC. This is the stuff that won me over after getting the ick from him. He truly loved her even back then, and he made efforts to get to know her again in the present so he could love the current her too.
“In every decade, every era, every lifetime—I’d want you, Ivy.”
Swoon.
"I don’t know how to fix this, but I know that one day I will."
This is his past self talking. Still side eyeing that he let 15 years go by, and it wasn't until he retired from the NHL that he was ready to settle down.
“I want a do-over,” Pax says, a hint of nervousness fraying his voice. “I want to go right back to where I left you all those years ago and choose to stay.”
DO YOU HEAR ME SOBBING?!!!
I skipped a ton because I got drawn into the story, but I love how this turned out. They had so much that wasn't worked through because of how they parted as teens. I still think they needed to talk a bit more as adults, and it wasn't shown on page sadly, which is a main reason for only 4 stars. I still love the angst, the longing, and the support they have each other. Also wanted an epilogue. :(
The Present: "I scoured the nation, making my way from mattress to mattress, date to date, hoping to find someone who remotely makes me feel the way Ivy did. But not a single soul has come close."
Ick.
The Past: "In fact, I’m gonna need to start hitting up more girls in your school because I’m running out of options at mine.”
Ickkkkk.
This guy is a manwh0re from at least age 14 onward and this book never misses an opportunity to tell us about it. Literally throughout the entire book we're reminded in multiple ways about how much ass this guy gets, and how he uses it to cope with his feelings and longing and loneliness. I'm putting this at the beginning of my review because this is normally a turn off for me (idc what happens before the relationship with the other MC but I don't want it shoved in my face like this), but I still enjoyed the rest of the story regardless. Just know that it's there......
The Present: “You want to be in a relationship with someone? The guy who can’t even remember how many threesomes he’s had and never wanted to commit to someone? Never gonna happen.”
Anyway, this book was so good. From the FMC's unrequited love as a pre-teen, to the MMC's changing feelings as a teen, to their time as adults deciding to have a fling thinking they could just move past it afterwards (though he NEVER intended to move past it). This is the angst stuff I love reading, and it's made all the better because you can tell in their chapters how completely lost they each are for the other person.
"I now know why it’s called a crush. Because wanting a person you can never have destroys you bit by bit."
"I could never tell if Pax liked me back, and truthfully, I’m still not sure. But I know he doesn’t hesitate to be with other girls, so that should be a sign that he most certainly doesn’t think of me the way I think of him."
Still ick on that part. I should note that he's not like this once he sees her again as an adult, and he had always planned to win her back, but he did let 15 years go by without ever reaching out to her, so I do still have some side eye reserved for him.
"A fuse gets lit inside me. It’s small but mighty, and although I might always have a crush on Paxton, I don’t want to be the girl who waits for him when he waits for no one. 2007 is the year I’m going to start building my confidence."
YES GIRL. This is the energy I like to see. She pined over him for so long and then decided she wanted to live her life too. Love that for her.
Side note: don't appreciate that no one in 15+ years could ever make her come though. She was how many others, but only had orgasms with the MMC, meanwhile we know for sure he got off often. I effing hate that trope every time it happens. Points for letting her have a sex life outside of him, but they're taken away for doing her dirty like that.
Random note: They make Facebook accounts when FB is new even they're 15/17, except when Facebook first started, you had to have a college email account to get on there. They didn't open it to the public until later.
"This is what I want. I want to know who Ivy is now. I want to witness her growth, see her in her element, and take note of how much she has evolved into an incredible woman over the years."
Yes, this is the energy I want from the MMC. This is the stuff that won me over after getting the ick from him. He truly loved her even back then, and he made efforts to get to know her again in the present so he could love the current her too.
“In every decade, every era, every lifetime—I’d want you, Ivy.”
Swoon.
"I don’t know how to fix this, but I know that one day I will."
This is his past self talking. Still side eyeing that he let 15 years go by, and it wasn't until he retired from the NHL that he was ready to settle down.
“I want a do-over,” Pax says, a hint of nervousness fraying his voice. “I want to go right back to where I left you all those years ago and choose to stay.”
DO YOU HEAR ME SOBBING?!!!
I skipped a ton because I got drawn into the story, but I love how this turned out. They had so much that wasn't worked through because of how they parted as teens. I still think they needed to talk a bit more as adults, and it wasn't shown on page sadly, which is a main reason for only 4 stars. I still love the angst, the longing, and the support they have each other. Also wanted an epilogue. :(
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 31, 2026
♾️ stars!!! Do you ever read a book and just KNOW that it is going to stick with you for a long time? That’s what this book is for me. Holly Caste really puts us through it with this book and I just know that I am going to think about this one for a while.
🩷Y2K vibes
🩷Past and present timelines
🩷Brother’s best friend
🩷Second chance
🩷Forced proximity
🩷Rich x poor
Paxton and Ivy are two years apart, meeting when Pax was 14 and Ivy 12. They forced a unique friendship that grew over the years. Until they are of age and their relationship finally crosses that line, only for everything to fall apart.
Now here we are two decades later and they are in contact for the first time in all those years. Past trauma is still heavy, but the feelings are still there.
Holly really drags up through all the high highs and the low lows! I went from smiling with happiness to sobbing into my kindle. I loved the different relationships and friendships throughout this book. There were so many fantastic side characters that I also fell in love with!
If you love the 2000s and everything that came along with it, think burned cds and iPod nanos, then this book will certainly be for you!
🩷Y2K vibes
🩷Past and present timelines
🩷Brother’s best friend
🩷Second chance
🩷Forced proximity
🩷Rich x poor
Paxton and Ivy are two years apart, meeting when Pax was 14 and Ivy 12. They forced a unique friendship that grew over the years. Until they are of age and their relationship finally crosses that line, only for everything to fall apart.
Now here we are two decades later and they are in contact for the first time in all those years. Past trauma is still heavy, but the feelings are still there.
Holly really drags up through all the high highs and the low lows! I went from smiling with happiness to sobbing into my kindle. I loved the different relationships and friendships throughout this book. There were so many fantastic side characters that I also fell in love with!
If you love the 2000s and everything that came along with it, think burned cds and iPod nanos, then this book will certainly be for you!
January 30, 2026
Right Where You Left Me was my first book by Holly Caste and won’t be my last! 5 ⭐️ This book had me on an emotional rollercoaster with such throwback memories. I smiled, I laughed, I remembered the times, I recalled my own memories, I fought back tears, I felt my heart break for them, and then somehow all the pieces came together. I want more of Ivy and Pax.
February 10, 2026
4.5 stars
This book had me in its clutches, I could not put it down. Reading whenever I had a spare moment as my life was a little crazy that week. The 80s pop culture, the journey Pax and Ivy take builds until the present day when they must face each other at her brother’s wedding.
Told through flashbacks, we learn of the friendship Pax forms with her brother, and then her. The opposite family situations yet a solid support system is formed. Ivy’s parents are part of her trauma, and her mother is a piece of work. No lines are crossed, until she is of age, but the situation forms lasting memories and trauma. Ones strong enough to build a wall around her heart that is still there today.
Two decades pass and a random flight seats Pax and Ivy next to each other. Will this be the right time for them?
An emotional roller coaster, but worth it for the Gilmore Girls references alone. I have a new go to author in Holly Caste. I love her writing style, her characters, and a solid handle of the 80s. I highly recommend this book, it will be a reread for me, it is still with me.
Thank you to Love n Books Press and the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
This book had me in its clutches, I could not put it down. Reading whenever I had a spare moment as my life was a little crazy that week. The 80s pop culture, the journey Pax and Ivy take builds until the present day when they must face each other at her brother’s wedding.
Told through flashbacks, we learn of the friendship Pax forms with her brother, and then her. The opposite family situations yet a solid support system is formed. Ivy’s parents are part of her trauma, and her mother is a piece of work. No lines are crossed, until she is of age, but the situation forms lasting memories and trauma. Ones strong enough to build a wall around her heart that is still there today.
Two decades pass and a random flight seats Pax and Ivy next to each other. Will this be the right time for them?
An emotional roller coaster, but worth it for the Gilmore Girls references alone. I have a new go to author in Holly Caste. I love her writing style, her characters, and a solid handle of the 80s. I highly recommend this book, it will be a reread for me, it is still with me.
Thank you to Love n Books Press and the Author for the advanced copy; this is my voluntary review.
January 29, 2026
I got an ARC and god was it needed because I have been waiting for more of HC’s work since I read Anything Rae Touches; and I’ve had to watch her live her life and go to Disneyland with her family instead of writing a book faster for me.
I adore second chance/first love and it’s often done so poorly where the history is told through conversations and we are just expected to know there’s a deep relationship there that we’re rooting for. HC nailed the then/now chapters (personally would have reshuffled some), and really built the yearning and teen angst. When I tell you that I had a visceral response to Ivy being in Pax’s MySpace top 8 😂
Ivy and pax felt a bit instalove in the „now” chapters but the „then” chapters do help with that issue. I would have loved to have seen more emotional connection for them in the now chapters.
Felt like a missed opportunity to not have Pax have the realisation or discussion around what Ivy saw when he got drafted to the NHL. This book desperately needed an epilogue and I hope HC sees this and writes one for her website because their schmexy time at Trent’s wedding is giving Daisy vibes. 🌼
Ps this book is spicy as shit for the gals about that lol
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
I adore second chance/first love and it’s often done so poorly where the history is told through conversations and we are just expected to know there’s a deep relationship there that we’re rooting for. HC nailed the then/now chapters (personally would have reshuffled some), and really built the yearning and teen angst. When I tell you that I had a visceral response to Ivy being in Pax’s MySpace top 8 😂
Ivy and pax felt a bit instalove in the „now” chapters but the „then” chapters do help with that issue. I would have loved to have seen more emotional connection for them in the now chapters.
Felt like a missed opportunity to not have Pax have the realisation or discussion around what Ivy saw when he got drafted to the NHL. This book desperately needed an epilogue and I hope HC sees this and writes one for her website because their schmexy time at Trent’s wedding is giving Daisy vibes. 🌼
Ps this book is spicy as shit for the gals about that lol
🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️
Review of advance copy received from Publisher
My heart 😭 i loved this book. So freaking much. There was banter and spice and so much love. I love how there wasn't residual and overdrawn hatred. The past memories were PERFECTLY placed and helped me understand what exactly was happening. The feelings and reactions felt so genuine and real. This is my first book by this author.. she did amazing! Such beautiful writing!
Review of advance copy received from Author
5 ⭐️
“𝐼𝓃 𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓎 𝒹𝑒𝒸𝒶𝒹𝑒, 𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓎 𝑒𝓇𝒶, 𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓎 𝓁𝒾𝒻𝑒𝓉𝒾𝓂𝑒 - 𝐼’𝒹 𝓌𝒶𝓃𝓉 𝓎𝑜𝓊, 𝐼𝓋𝓎.”
I was first introduced to Holly and her writing through book one of the Golden Bay Beach series, Anything Rae Touches (if you have not read this series, do yourself a favor and pick it up … but bring tissues). My book club was lucky enough to have Holly attend our discussion of the book. Holly mentioned she was working on something new, a 2000s/hockey themed book, so I’ve been (im)patiently awaiting this release!
🏒 Professional Hockey Player (MMC)
🌼 Second Chance
✨ Brothers Best Friend
📸 Y2K
🪩 Dual Timelines
🦋 Different Social Classes
Right Where You Left Me takes place over the course of two decades - past and present - following Pax & Ivy’s friendship, and lack thereof. Brought back into each other’s lives, Pax and Ivy try to navigate how to be around each other again … all while trying to avoid the biggest elephant in the room, their past. But there’s situations surrounding their past the other isn’t privy too. But the universal truth is, you never forget your first love. Especially if you’ve never actually fallen out of love with them. If a second chance came knocking at your door, would you answer?
RWYLM hit me in ALL the feels, so if you don’t like emotional rollercoasters this book is not for you. My heart broke for Ivy. My heart broke for Pax. My heart broke for the two of them, together. The highs are high and the lows are low. But Holly is a balance queen, so after every low there was also a follow up moment where I was kicking my feet giddy absolutely cheesing over the two of them. I’m a big fan of dual timelines and in stories like Pax and Ivy’s, I think it’s important to go back to the beginning and understand hesitancies that consumed both of them at different points in their lives.
Being a 30+ year old reader, the nostalgia this book brought back was an absolute vibe. I felt like I did a reverse 13 going on 30 and transported back to my teen years. Memories I had long forgotten about were suddenly popping back into my head. The mix CDs, the digital camera, MySpace - it truly was a trip down memory lane.
Whenever I finish a book from Holly, I am always rendered speechless – mostly in part because I am still trying to wrap my head around the masterpiece I’ve just read, but also because I’m trying to catch my breath after ugly crying for god knows how long. Holly is an incredibly talented writer and she’s able to successfully trigger a wide range of emotions in a reader - happiness, joy, sadness, heartbreak, empathy, etc. There are a handful of books I’ve read that I knew as soon as I closed the book that I’d be forever changed by it and that it would stay with me forever. Holly makes that list. She’s not afraid to tackle the hard topics, it’s refreshing when you see stories similar to your own and find a tiny bit of healing within someone else’s story.
I’d also just like to note, I knew I was going to love this book when the first three words of it were “men are idiots” .. amen.
*Please be sure to check the trigger warnings before reading*
Thank you to Luna Literary, Book Funnel and of course Holly Caste for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
“𝐼𝓃 𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓎 𝒹𝑒𝒸𝒶𝒹𝑒, 𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓎 𝑒𝓇𝒶, 𝑒𝓋𝑒𝓇𝓎 𝓁𝒾𝒻𝑒𝓉𝒾𝓂𝑒 - 𝐼’𝒹 𝓌𝒶𝓃𝓉 𝓎𝑜𝓊, 𝐼𝓋𝓎.”
I was first introduced to Holly and her writing through book one of the Golden Bay Beach series, Anything Rae Touches (if you have not read this series, do yourself a favor and pick it up … but bring tissues). My book club was lucky enough to have Holly attend our discussion of the book. Holly mentioned she was working on something new, a 2000s/hockey themed book, so I’ve been (im)patiently awaiting this release!
🏒 Professional Hockey Player (MMC)
🌼 Second Chance
✨ Brothers Best Friend
📸 Y2K
🪩 Dual Timelines
🦋 Different Social Classes
Right Where You Left Me takes place over the course of two decades - past and present - following Pax & Ivy’s friendship, and lack thereof. Brought back into each other’s lives, Pax and Ivy try to navigate how to be around each other again … all while trying to avoid the biggest elephant in the room, their past. But there’s situations surrounding their past the other isn’t privy too. But the universal truth is, you never forget your first love. Especially if you’ve never actually fallen out of love with them. If a second chance came knocking at your door, would you answer?
RWYLM hit me in ALL the feels, so if you don’t like emotional rollercoasters this book is not for you. My heart broke for Ivy. My heart broke for Pax. My heart broke for the two of them, together. The highs are high and the lows are low. But Holly is a balance queen, so after every low there was also a follow up moment where I was kicking my feet giddy absolutely cheesing over the two of them. I’m a big fan of dual timelines and in stories like Pax and Ivy’s, I think it’s important to go back to the beginning and understand hesitancies that consumed both of them at different points in their lives.
Being a 30+ year old reader, the nostalgia this book brought back was an absolute vibe. I felt like I did a reverse 13 going on 30 and transported back to my teen years. Memories I had long forgotten about were suddenly popping back into my head. The mix CDs, the digital camera, MySpace - it truly was a trip down memory lane.
Whenever I finish a book from Holly, I am always rendered speechless – mostly in part because I am still trying to wrap my head around the masterpiece I’ve just read, but also because I’m trying to catch my breath after ugly crying for god knows how long. Holly is an incredibly talented writer and she’s able to successfully trigger a wide range of emotions in a reader - happiness, joy, sadness, heartbreak, empathy, etc. There are a handful of books I’ve read that I knew as soon as I closed the book that I’d be forever changed by it and that it would stay with me forever. Holly makes that list. She’s not afraid to tackle the hard topics, it’s refreshing when you see stories similar to your own and find a tiny bit of healing within someone else’s story.
I’d also just like to note, I knew I was going to love this book when the first three words of it were “men are idiots” .. amen.
*Please be sure to check the trigger warnings before reading*
Thank you to Luna Literary, Book Funnel and of course Holly Caste for providing me with an advanced reader copy in exchange for my honest review.
Review of advance copy
This book.. Holy sh!t. DEVASTATING...but also EXCEPTIONAL!!! This was such an intricately woven story with the littlest details that when you put the pieces together from past and present it completely shatters your heart. At least it sure as hell did for me.
First of all, this is probably the most millennial book I've ever read, in that ALL of the references were so accurately depicted to life in the early 2000s. MySpace, Ushers "Yeah", pirates of the Caribbean, fallout boy posters, the hair straightening, everythingggg!! Chef kiss, it was like reliving my teenage years.
This book bounces between past and present, telling the story of Ivy, Trents little sister, and Paxton, Trents best friend. The past chapters start from their first meeting at 12 and 14, and bounces through the years until their friendship suddenly ends at 18 and 20. The current day chapters start with them in their 30s, not speaking to each other but you don't know what happened. Between the flashback chapters and the present day chapters, you learn bits and pieces about their relationship, how it developed and how they secretly (although not so secretly to each other) desperately wanted to be together. Unfortunately, due to Paxs upbringing and Ivy's elitist parents, they never really had a true opportunity. Just ships in the night. And friends, it is so painful. My god, it was so hard to see how much they secretly cared about and craved each other, and could never act on it in the slightest. Except for one secret night, ages 18 and 20, that changes their life and relationship forever. Brought back together by Trents wedding some 14yrs later, which they are both part of, and Paxs ill uncle, Pax is determined to make things right with the one who got away, while Ivy is forced to confront their past that she ran from and never healed from.
The entire book was heartwrenching, but the last ~20%? Full on sobbing on my couch at 2am. I'm not ok. I've half a mind to reach out to author and beg, BEG for an extra bonus chapter just to heal my heart a little more for Ivy and Pax. Despite how painful it was to read this one, I cannot understate how moving their story is, how delicately the pieces of information fall together between past and present until it forms a fully formed image of the most shattered heart. This WILL be a book that I purchase a paper copy of for my personal library because I can't imagine not having it to hold as I hurt and weep for Ivy and Pax. You've been warned, make sure your box of tissues is ready to go.
Deeply thankful to Luna Literary Management, the publisher, and the author for allowing me to read and review; part of me will never be the same after this one ❤️🩹
First of all, this is probably the most millennial book I've ever read, in that ALL of the references were so accurately depicted to life in the early 2000s. MySpace, Ushers "Yeah", pirates of the Caribbean, fallout boy posters, the hair straightening, everythingggg!! Chef kiss, it was like reliving my teenage years.
This book bounces between past and present, telling the story of Ivy, Trents little sister, and Paxton, Trents best friend. The past chapters start from their first meeting at 12 and 14, and bounces through the years until their friendship suddenly ends at 18 and 20. The current day chapters start with them in their 30s, not speaking to each other but you don't know what happened. Between the flashback chapters and the present day chapters, you learn bits and pieces about their relationship, how it developed and how they secretly (although not so secretly to each other) desperately wanted to be together. Unfortunately, due to Paxs upbringing and Ivy's elitist parents, they never really had a true opportunity. Just ships in the night. And friends, it is so painful. My god, it was so hard to see how much they secretly cared about and craved each other, and could never act on it in the slightest. Except for one secret night, ages 18 and 20, that changes their life and relationship forever. Brought back together by Trents wedding some 14yrs later, which they are both part of, and Paxs ill uncle, Pax is determined to make things right with the one who got away, while Ivy is forced to confront their past that she ran from and never healed from.
The entire book was heartwrenching, but the last ~20%? Full on sobbing on my couch at 2am. I'm not ok. I've half a mind to reach out to author and beg, BEG for an extra bonus chapter just to heal my heart a little more for Ivy and Pax. Despite how painful it was to read this one, I cannot understate how moving their story is, how delicately the pieces of information fall together between past and present until it forms a fully formed image of the most shattered heart. This WILL be a book that I purchase a paper copy of for my personal library because I can't imagine not having it to hold as I hurt and weep for Ivy and Pax. You've been warned, make sure your box of tissues is ready to go.
Deeply thankful to Luna Literary Management, the publisher, and the author for allowing me to read and review; part of me will never be the same after this one ❤️🩹
February 14, 2026
“In every decade, every era, every lifetime - I’d want you, Ivy.”
THIS BOOK. It hit me in ALL of the feels: triggered my Y2K nostalgia, made me kick my feet and giggle, had me in full blow tears, then completely broke my heart and put it back together again.
Right Where You Left Me takes us on a journey through the course of two decades, going back and forth between the past (mid 2000s) and the present. We follow along with Paxton and Ivy, and the very beginning of their friendship way back in 2004, when Ivy’s brother Trent befriended the new kid on his hockey team: Paxton. The three of them were thick as thieves, but Ivy and Pax always had something special. Afraid to lose the only two friends he’s ever had, Pax tried his best to keep his best friend’s little sister strictly in the friend zone. They danced around their unspoken feelings for each other for several years.. until one night changed everything.
Fast forward to 2024.. Ivy and Pax haven’t spoken in years. Suddenly they’re together again, in town for Trent’s upcoming wedding. There are so many things left unsaid, feelings unresolved, and emotions running high. Pax let Ivy get away once, he’s determined not to do it again. Will they let their second chance slip away, or will fate bring them together for good?
I’ve been reading a lot of dual timelines lately and I love them. It adds so much depth to a story and Holly did this so beautifully. My heart broke for these characters and the future they could have had. Following along through their reconnection years later, though, had my heart healing and brought so many tears to my eyes.
Being in my mid 30s, the nostalgia in this book hits so hard too. It took me right back to 2007 when I had my digital camera permanently attached to my wrist, listening to a mixed cd that I made that day, and updating my MySpace page. If you’re a Y2K girlie, this one is for you.
Holly Caste has written a masterpiece and this one will stay with me forever. 🤍
THIS BOOK. It hit me in ALL of the feels: triggered my Y2K nostalgia, made me kick my feet and giggle, had me in full blow tears, then completely broke my heart and put it back together again.
Right Where You Left Me takes us on a journey through the course of two decades, going back and forth between the past (mid 2000s) and the present. We follow along with Paxton and Ivy, and the very beginning of their friendship way back in 2004, when Ivy’s brother Trent befriended the new kid on his hockey team: Paxton. The three of them were thick as thieves, but Ivy and Pax always had something special. Afraid to lose the only two friends he’s ever had, Pax tried his best to keep his best friend’s little sister strictly in the friend zone. They danced around their unspoken feelings for each other for several years.. until one night changed everything.
Fast forward to 2024.. Ivy and Pax haven’t spoken in years. Suddenly they’re together again, in town for Trent’s upcoming wedding. There are so many things left unsaid, feelings unresolved, and emotions running high. Pax let Ivy get away once, he’s determined not to do it again. Will they let their second chance slip away, or will fate bring them together for good?
I’ve been reading a lot of dual timelines lately and I love them. It adds so much depth to a story and Holly did this so beautifully. My heart broke for these characters and the future they could have had. Following along through their reconnection years later, though, had my heart healing and brought so many tears to my eyes.
Being in my mid 30s, the nostalgia in this book hits so hard too. It took me right back to 2007 when I had my digital camera permanently attached to my wrist, listening to a mixed cd that I made that day, and updating my MySpace page. If you’re a Y2K girlie, this one is for you.
Holly Caste has written a masterpiece and this one will stay with me forever. 🤍
February 11, 2026
Right Where You Left Me is about Paxton and Ivy. Pax and Ivy meet when they are 14 and 12, when Pax joins a hockey team and quickly becomes best friends with Ivy’s brother. We see their relationship go from friends, to crushes and longing and then finally a kiss that leads to more. But everything falls apart, they don’t see each other for years, until they are seated next to each other on a flight to Boston.
Read this if you like:
💿Brother’s Best Friend
💿Second Chances
💿Forced Proximity
💿It’s Always Been you
💿Past and Present Timelines
💿Y2K Vibes
I devoured this book. This story will put you on an emotional roller coaster, it will break your heart and then put it back together again, which is a specialty of Holly Caste. Told in alternating timelines, we get to see the evolution of their childhood friendship and what ultimately broke them. In the present timelines we get to see Pax and Ivy find their way back to each other.
This story made me mad, made me smile and want to kick my feet and also had me in tears. 30 year old Pax is sweet and funny and so far gone and doesn’t hide it. 30 year old Ivy is guarded with fortified walls and it was so fun to watch those come down throughout the story. They had a lot of hurdles to get through on their way back to each other
The early 2000’s nostalgia was also a character in this book: MySpace, Gilmore Girls, iPod nano, digital cameras, burning cds, and early days of Facebook. The mentions of the music, the tv shows and the movies brought me back and I couldn’t get enough.
If you like second chances, 2000’s nostalgia, and it’s always been you then you need this book in your life. Thank you to @hollycaste_author and @lunaliterary.management for my copy of this book. Right Where You Left Me is out now!
Read this if you like:
💿Brother’s Best Friend
💿Second Chances
💿Forced Proximity
💿It’s Always Been you
💿Past and Present Timelines
💿Y2K Vibes
I devoured this book. This story will put you on an emotional roller coaster, it will break your heart and then put it back together again, which is a specialty of Holly Caste. Told in alternating timelines, we get to see the evolution of their childhood friendship and what ultimately broke them. In the present timelines we get to see Pax and Ivy find their way back to each other.
This story made me mad, made me smile and want to kick my feet and also had me in tears. 30 year old Pax is sweet and funny and so far gone and doesn’t hide it. 30 year old Ivy is guarded with fortified walls and it was so fun to watch those come down throughout the story. They had a lot of hurdles to get through on their way back to each other
The early 2000’s nostalgia was also a character in this book: MySpace, Gilmore Girls, iPod nano, digital cameras, burning cds, and early days of Facebook. The mentions of the music, the tv shows and the movies brought me back and I couldn’t get enough.
If you like second chances, 2000’s nostalgia, and it’s always been you then you need this book in your life. Thank you to @hollycaste_author and @lunaliterary.management for my copy of this book. Right Where You Left Me is out now!
February 22, 2026
I started this book and honestly couldn’t put it down.
Right Where You Left Me is a beautifully emotional second-chance romance between Ivy and Paxton. When we first meet Ivy, it’s immediately clear why her life has taken the path it has—her family dynamics are complicated and, at times, deeply toxic, which makes her journey all the more powerful and heartbreaking.
The story then takes us back into the early 2000s with a nostalgia hit for any of us that remember the Y2K/My Space era, which is where we meet Paxton (introduced through Ivy’s older brother Trent) and watch their connection unfold from the very beginning. I’m not always a fan of dual timelines shifting between past and present, but Holly handles it so seamlessly that it adds depth rather than distraction. Each transition feels natural and meaningful, gradually revealing the full weight of Ivy and Paxton’s story.
Throughout the book, we experience the intensity of their bond—the longing, the missed chances, the life-changing revelations, and the bittersweet reality of seeing a future that doesn’t quite go as planned. It’s an emotional rollercoaster, filled with moments of hope, heartbreak, and healing.
One of my favourite elements was the constant presence of that one person in their lives who plays such a pivotal role who supports them both equally, has been there for them from the start both physically and emotionally and is then able to remind who they are, and ultimately forces them to see each other again. The twist of fate that occurs will have you reaching for the tissues.
This is the first book I’ve read by Holly, and it definitely won’t be my last.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
🌶️🌶️
I received this as an ARC and this is my personal review.
Right Where You Left Me is a beautifully emotional second-chance romance between Ivy and Paxton. When we first meet Ivy, it’s immediately clear why her life has taken the path it has—her family dynamics are complicated and, at times, deeply toxic, which makes her journey all the more powerful and heartbreaking.
The story then takes us back into the early 2000s with a nostalgia hit for any of us that remember the Y2K/My Space era, which is where we meet Paxton (introduced through Ivy’s older brother Trent) and watch their connection unfold from the very beginning. I’m not always a fan of dual timelines shifting between past and present, but Holly handles it so seamlessly that it adds depth rather than distraction. Each transition feels natural and meaningful, gradually revealing the full weight of Ivy and Paxton’s story.
Throughout the book, we experience the intensity of their bond—the longing, the missed chances, the life-changing revelations, and the bittersweet reality of seeing a future that doesn’t quite go as planned. It’s an emotional rollercoaster, filled with moments of hope, heartbreak, and healing.
One of my favourite elements was the constant presence of that one person in their lives who plays such a pivotal role who supports them both equally, has been there for them from the start both physically and emotionally and is then able to remind who they are, and ultimately forces them to see each other again. The twist of fate that occurs will have you reaching for the tissues.
This is the first book I’ve read by Holly, and it definitely won’t be my last.
⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️ ⭐️
🌶️🌶️
I received this as an ARC and this is my personal review.
February 28, 2026
I am a sucker for brothers best friend AND brother's teammate, so I was so freakin' excited to read this one. And you know what? Apparently I was also in the mood to get my heart a little broken too! But that's okay. This was an absolutely wonderful read!
We have Trent and Pax who are opposite sides of the track but quickly become BFFs. With that, Trent's little sister, Ivy, starts to tag along to everything. She is 2 years younger than them but constantly wants Pax's attention. During the sections that explore their young dynamic, its beautiful. Nothing shegshual occurs between the two until they are both adults, so no worries there. But Pax? Oof. He breaks her heart man. Broke mine too!
This book does a lot of time shifts to before the event and and then after they're able to reconnect as adults. Usually not a fan of this, but Holly has this so well written, I was wanting more! I will say, if you have any triggers at all, please read the front AND back trigger warning page to save your mental health. This book is heavy in quite a few areas. But again, so beautifully well written.
These two are going to fight for the HEA, and you're just going to need to buckle up, mmkay?
Highly recommend for those that like a hockey backstory (he's retired during the adult portions of the story), brother's best friend, child hood friends to strangers to lovers aspect, a failed friends with benefits premise, or even an "it's always been you" moment - even if they were too dumb/young to realize it.
We have Trent and Pax who are opposite sides of the track but quickly become BFFs. With that, Trent's little sister, Ivy, starts to tag along to everything. She is 2 years younger than them but constantly wants Pax's attention. During the sections that explore their young dynamic, its beautiful. Nothing shegshual occurs between the two until they are both adults, so no worries there. But Pax? Oof. He breaks her heart man. Broke mine too!
This book does a lot of time shifts to before the event and and then after they're able to reconnect as adults. Usually not a fan of this, but Holly has this so well written, I was wanting more! I will say, if you have any triggers at all, please read the front AND back trigger warning page to save your mental health. This book is heavy in quite a few areas. But again, so beautifully well written.
These two are going to fight for the HEA, and you're just going to need to buckle up, mmkay?
Highly recommend for those that like a hockey backstory (he's retired during the adult portions of the story), brother's best friend, child hood friends to strangers to lovers aspect, a failed friends with benefits premise, or even an "it's always been you" moment - even if they were too dumb/young to realize it.
February 10, 2026
Right Where You Left Me by Holly Caste feels like opening an old CD case and suddenly remembering everything you thought you’d moved on from.
Set against early-2000s nostalgia—MySpace days, digital cameras, and pop-punk energy—this story follows Ivy and Paxton, who first meet as teenagers when Ivy falls for her brother’s best friend. What begins as quiet longing turns into years of missed timing, unspoken feelings, and one life-altering kiss that ends in heartbreak and silence.
Now in their thirties, fate reunites them in the last place either expects: standing side by side in Ivy’s brother’s wedding party. Paxton is no longer the NHL golden boy he once was—early retirement and a devastating family health crisis have changed him. Ivy, fiercely independent and emotionally guarded, isn’t willing to reopen old wounds for the man who once broke her heart.
This is a beautifully written, slow-burn second-chance romance that leans into emotional depth rather than shortcuts. The longing, the restraint, and the quiet moments hit just as hard as the big emotional beats. Ivy and Paxton’s story is about timing, healing, and learning whether love deserves another chance—or whether some stories are meant to stay in the past.
Heart-tugging, reflective, and deeply nostalgic, this one lingers long after the final page.
Tropes you’ll love:
💿 Brother’s best friend
💿 Early 2000s nostalgia
💿 Second-chance romance
💿 Hockey MMC
💿 Forced proximity
Set against early-2000s nostalgia—MySpace days, digital cameras, and pop-punk energy—this story follows Ivy and Paxton, who first meet as teenagers when Ivy falls for her brother’s best friend. What begins as quiet longing turns into years of missed timing, unspoken feelings, and one life-altering kiss that ends in heartbreak and silence.
Now in their thirties, fate reunites them in the last place either expects: standing side by side in Ivy’s brother’s wedding party. Paxton is no longer the NHL golden boy he once was—early retirement and a devastating family health crisis have changed him. Ivy, fiercely independent and emotionally guarded, isn’t willing to reopen old wounds for the man who once broke her heart.
This is a beautifully written, slow-burn second-chance romance that leans into emotional depth rather than shortcuts. The longing, the restraint, and the quiet moments hit just as hard as the big emotional beats. Ivy and Paxton’s story is about timing, healing, and learning whether love deserves another chance—or whether some stories are meant to stay in the past.
Heart-tugging, reflective, and deeply nostalgic, this one lingers long after the final page.
Tropes you’ll love:
💿 Brother’s best friend
💿 Early 2000s nostalgia
💿 Second-chance romance
💿 Hockey MMC
💿 Forced proximity
February 23, 2026
Thank you, Holly Caste, for writing such an amazing book. This was my first five star read of 2026, and I know it is one I will be thinking about for a long time.
First, if you were in high school in the early 2000s, you will completely relate to Ivy and Paxton. The MySpace days with your Top 8, then Facebook launching in 2004, brought me right back to those memories. Revisiting that era through these characters felt nostalgic and honestly so special.
Then there is the tension between Ivy and Paxton. The wanting, the waiting, and the not acting on it had me feeling that pent up emotion on every page. It kept me turning pages nonstop. Even at over 400 pages, I flew through it and still wanted more when it ended. Holly, please give us an extended epilogue.
Lastly, this book touches on some heavier topics. Without giving spoilers, I will just say that parts of Ivy’s journey deeply resonated with me because I have experienced something similar. The difference was that I had a support system while she did not, and that contrast made her story even more heartbreaking and powerful to read.
This story is going to make you feel everything. One minute you will be laughing, and the next you will be crying. It is a full emotional rollercoaster, but even with all those highs and lows, I would absolutely recommend giving this book a chance.
Thank you to Luna Literary and Holly Caste for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. I truly look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
First, if you were in high school in the early 2000s, you will completely relate to Ivy and Paxton. The MySpace days with your Top 8, then Facebook launching in 2004, brought me right back to those memories. Revisiting that era through these characters felt nostalgic and honestly so special.
Then there is the tension between Ivy and Paxton. The wanting, the waiting, and the not acting on it had me feeling that pent up emotion on every page. It kept me turning pages nonstop. Even at over 400 pages, I flew through it and still wanted more when it ended. Holly, please give us an extended epilogue.
Lastly, this book touches on some heavier topics. Without giving spoilers, I will just say that parts of Ivy’s journey deeply resonated with me because I have experienced something similar. The difference was that I had a support system while she did not, and that contrast made her story even more heartbreaking and powerful to read.
This story is going to make you feel everything. One minute you will be laughing, and the next you will be crying. It is a full emotional rollercoaster, but even with all those highs and lows, I would absolutely recommend giving this book a chance.
Thank you to Luna Literary and Holly Caste for the opportunity to read an ARC of this book. I truly look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
February 8, 2026
“I asked what love looked like in the two-thousands and what it looks like now. It’s us, Ivy. I have loved you since we were young, and I never stopped.”
Right Where You Left Me is that book that encapsulates your heart and soul and it’ll stay there forever. Such emotional turmoil and heartbreaking situations that you will feel in your bones while reading.
Ivy small and fierce but so broken. Growing up with extremely controlling parents that planned how her life would turn out from the minute she was born. Becoming close with her brother’s best friend Paxton at an early age. Their relationship continued to be platonic despite how desperately she wanted I to be more.
Paxton, playboy in the NHL, ego to go with his charming good looks. Also a broken guy being raised by his uncle after being abandoned. Paxton has zero time for relationships and promises that will never change.
These 2 have a tumultuous relationship at best. So much hurt and heartbreak but so much soul shattering love.
This was definitely a top read for me. I completely fell in love with Paxton and Ivy and they will live in my bookish heart forever! Highly recommend this one!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Received as an ARC, thank you Luna Lit 💜
I am such a sucker for a second chance + brothers best friend combo and this one hit the spot!!!
It all starts in 2004, they meet when they are 12 & 14 💘
Then it time hops to the present when they run into each other on a flight after not seeing each other since she was 18 and he broke her heart.
When they are younger she crushes on him from the start but it takes him a bit longer to notice her the same way but once he does the internal battle begins because no matter how bad he wants her, he can’t have her because she’s the off limits little sister of his bestfriend…..
This takes you on a rollercoaster of yearning, jealously, a bit of toxicity, secrets, miscommunication but also soul mates it’s always been you vibes 🥰
Can’t forget to shoutout Uncle Jeff!! I love that man. when Paxton says “take care of daisy for us”….
Done. Goodbyeeee 😭
The detailed 2000’s nostalgia was everything in this book!!
i.e. top 8 on MySpace and blink 182
4 ⭐️
I am such a sucker for a second chance + brothers best friend combo and this one hit the spot!!!
It all starts in 2004, they meet when they are 12 & 14 💘
Then it time hops to the present when they run into each other on a flight after not seeing each other since she was 18 and he broke her heart.
When they are younger she crushes on him from the start but it takes him a bit longer to notice her the same way but once he does the internal battle begins because no matter how bad he wants her, he can’t have her because she’s the off limits little sister of his bestfriend…..
This takes you on a rollercoaster of yearning, jealously, a bit of toxicity, secrets, miscommunication but also soul mates it’s always been you vibes 🥰
Can’t forget to shoutout Uncle Jeff!! I love that man. when Paxton says “take care of daisy for us”….
Done. Goodbyeeee 😭
The detailed 2000’s nostalgia was everything in this book!!
i.e. top 8 on MySpace and blink 182
4 ⭐️
February 11, 2026
First love, second chances, heartbreak, and everything in between…Yes! Give it to me!
When I first started reading, I was so excited and prepared and ready to have my heart ripped out and put back together…and this book definitely delivers!
This dual POV and dual timeline combination is perfect. I don’t know what’s in the air (probably love) but this is so beautifully blended and so gorgeously told. I love the back and forth between Pax and Ivy as well as how their history is being shared. I’m just so in love with their story…there’s something that just hits different because while they grew up together, there’s still a gap since Pax is Ivy’s older brother’s best friend. To see the differences between them as they navigate their lives when they’re younger and then to see it juxtaposed when they’re older is hauntingly beautiful especially with their shared history and secrets.
Thank you so much to Holly Caste and Luna Literary Management for the gifted ARC! All opinions are my own.
When I first started reading, I was so excited and prepared and ready to have my heart ripped out and put back together…and this book definitely delivers!
This dual POV and dual timeline combination is perfect. I don’t know what’s in the air (probably love) but this is so beautifully blended and so gorgeously told. I love the back and forth between Pax and Ivy as well as how their history is being shared. I’m just so in love with their story…there’s something that just hits different because while they grew up together, there’s still a gap since Pax is Ivy’s older brother’s best friend. To see the differences between them as they navigate their lives when they’re younger and then to see it juxtaposed when they’re older is hauntingly beautiful especially with their shared history and secrets.
Thank you so much to Holly Caste and Luna Literary Management for the gifted ARC! All opinions are my own.
February 14, 2026
The level of real this story was… there were parts I felt like this author pulled out of my memories and out of shattered pieces of my heart. There were sentences I read and I felt my heart crack all over again.
Ivy is the daughter of cold, unloving socialites who care only about status and their class - little sister to Trent, bestfriend to Paxton - the hockey star who grew up on the wrong side of the tracks. Ivy is off limits to Paxton, that’s his befriends little sister… until she’s a grown woman and the lines get blurry & they ruin their friendship.
Years later, Ivy calls off her relationship, bolts and ends up beside Paxton, in a hoodie that reads “I love crabs” 😅 & now, after years of not speaking to him, she has to be in her brothers wedding with him.
The rollercoaster of emotions involved in this story caused me to rate it 5 stars. There were pages I cried so hard that I couldn’t see the words.
Tropes:
Bestfriends little sister
Second chance
Friends to lovers to strangers
Loss - a lot of it
Ivy is the daughter of cold, unloving socialites who care only about status and their class - little sister to Trent, bestfriend to Paxton - the hockey star who grew up on the wrong side of the tracks. Ivy is off limits to Paxton, that’s his befriends little sister… until she’s a grown woman and the lines get blurry & they ruin their friendship.
Years later, Ivy calls off her relationship, bolts and ends up beside Paxton, in a hoodie that reads “I love crabs” 😅 & now, after years of not speaking to him, she has to be in her brothers wedding with him.
The rollercoaster of emotions involved in this story caused me to rate it 5 stars. There were pages I cried so hard that I couldn’t see the words.
Tropes:
Bestfriends little sister
Second chance
Friends to lovers to strangers
Loss - a lot of it
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
February 25, 2026
Right Where You Left Me is a second chance/brothers best friend romance that follows Ivy and Paxton and I’m OBSESSED! This is a dual POV and dual timeline and it gives you ALL of the 2000s nostalgia in the best ways. I laughed, cried and kicked my feet like a teenager with a crush while reading this. It was just SO good.
Ivy is a bit of a black cat FMC, but you learn why throughout the book. I loved her development from her teenage self to the woman she is now. Her love for Paxton start young and never left, even when she tried to push it away.
Paxton is the epitome of the playboy who only has one true love. He also was the stereotypical “I can’t mess with my fiends sister even though I love her” as a teenager. His love for Ivy was always strong and never left. His support for her never wavered.
I loved Uncle Jeff, Trent and Zaina soooo much. They each had such a different, but important role in the book. I could read about all of them forever. There are a few heavy elements in this one, so make sure to read the trigger warnings!
Ivy is a bit of a black cat FMC, but you learn why throughout the book. I loved her development from her teenage self to the woman she is now. Her love for Paxton start young and never left, even when she tried to push it away.
Paxton is the epitome of the playboy who only has one true love. He also was the stereotypical “I can’t mess with my fiends sister even though I love her” as a teenager. His love for Ivy was always strong and never left. His support for her never wavered.
I loved Uncle Jeff, Trent and Zaina soooo much. They each had such a different, but important role in the book. I could read about all of them forever. There are a few heavy elements in this one, so make sure to read the trigger warnings!
February 26, 2026
I didn't finish this book, it finished me! This book absolutely wrecked me!
I am so in love with Daisy and Paxton's story! They were friends in their teens but due to circumstances ties were cut. A chance meeting brings the. back together but I love that this story takes us back to the early 2000s in flashbacks from both of their perspectives so we can see what happened in the past that led us to this present.
This book is an emotional journey. I laughed, got irritated and angry, and most definitely cried reading this. I loved that while reading this book I could clearly remember myself during that time and the mentions of so many songs, bands, movies, items, and products mentioned from that time definitely gave me a sense of nostalgia.
I recommend this to anyone that likes to read:
slow burn
second chance
brother's best friend
flashbacks for the full story
dual POV
emotional
hurt/comfort
found family
Thank you to Luna Literary and Holly Caste for the privilege to ARC read this book. I absolutely loved it!
I am so in love with Daisy and Paxton's story! They were friends in their teens but due to circumstances ties were cut. A chance meeting brings the. back together but I love that this story takes us back to the early 2000s in flashbacks from both of their perspectives so we can see what happened in the past that led us to this present.
This book is an emotional journey. I laughed, got irritated and angry, and most definitely cried reading this. I loved that while reading this book I could clearly remember myself during that time and the mentions of so many songs, bands, movies, items, and products mentioned from that time definitely gave me a sense of nostalgia.
I recommend this to anyone that likes to read:
slow burn
second chance
brother's best friend
flashbacks for the full story
dual POV
emotional
hurt/comfort
found family
Thank you to Luna Literary and Holly Caste for the privilege to ARC read this book. I absolutely loved it!
Review of advance copy
Wow! The connection… Electrifying!
I loved this book so hard and a few times at the end tears were coursing down my cheeks.
Adored the present intermingled with the past which really added to this wonderful storyline.
Brilliantly written I connected straight away with all the characters loving Pax, Ivy, her brother Trent and Uncle Jeff.
Felt for Ivy with her horrible parents and the way she was treated as a commodity and not as a real person.
Even though Pax and Ivy had many obstacles to overcome their reconnection was inevitable and they deserved happiness, if only Ivy would let down her barriers.
I would highly recommend this book if you love second chance stories with a little bit of angst, steamy scenes and a love never forgotten that spans many years.
I’d also love to hear this in audiobook.
Thank you to Holly Caste and Luna Literary for the opportunity to read this amazing story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️+
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
I loved this book so hard and a few times at the end tears were coursing down my cheeks.
Adored the present intermingled with the past which really added to this wonderful storyline.
Brilliantly written I connected straight away with all the characters loving Pax, Ivy, her brother Trent and Uncle Jeff.
Felt for Ivy with her horrible parents and the way she was treated as a commodity and not as a real person.
Even though Pax and Ivy had many obstacles to overcome their reconnection was inevitable and they deserved happiness, if only Ivy would let down her barriers.
I would highly recommend this book if you love second chance stories with a little bit of angst, steamy scenes and a love never forgotten that spans many years.
I’d also love to hear this in audiobook.
Thank you to Holly Caste and Luna Literary for the opportunity to read this amazing story.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️+
🌶️🌶️🌶️.5
January 29, 2026
My good god! This book has been far one of my favourite reads ever! I was lucky enough to receive an advanced reader copy from the author and lads when I say I spent the day laughing, I mean it. All my millennials will appreciate this book. Down to every last detail. Reminding us of our own youth and our own relationships without taking anything from the story. This story with Ivy, Trent & Paxton has just been amazing. The friendship between the three of them was unmatched and blurring the line between friendship and love has always been a hard pill to swallow. What happens when you fall for your best friend’s sister? You keep her at arms length until it’s too late. This story has made me cry and I can’t remember the last time I cried reading a book. I’m so so excited to have been given the opportunity to read this book and honestly I’ll never stop recommending it!
February 10, 2026
This book is phenomenal! Just exceptionally written! The emotions and feelings in this book had me in a chokehold. The flashbacks were perfect, as it gave insight as to how everything went sideways between Ivy and Paxton. Until they are brought together for Ivy’s brother wedding, as Paxton is his best friend.
There is so much hurt and heartache between these two. Having grown up as friends because her brother, they always kept their feelings at bay….until they didn’t. Ivy is the daughter of controlling parents, who have controlled how her life will be since the moment she was born, leaving her a broken woman. Paxton has been raised by his uncle after his parents abandoned him, leaving him with his own issues.
Their love and connection is undeniable. While Paxton wants to be with the one who got away, there is so much hurt to unpack from the past.
There is so much hurt and heartache between these two. Having grown up as friends because her brother, they always kept their feelings at bay….until they didn’t. Ivy is the daughter of controlling parents, who have controlled how her life will be since the moment she was born, leaving her a broken woman. Paxton has been raised by his uncle after his parents abandoned him, leaving him with his own issues.
Their love and connection is undeniable. While Paxton wants to be with the one who got away, there is so much hurt to unpack from the past.
February 11, 2026
“𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴, 𝗶𝘃𝘆. 𝗶 𝗿𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗺𝗯𝗲𝗿 𝗲𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘆𝘁𝗵𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝗮𝗯𝗼𝘂𝘁 𝘆𝗼𝘂.”
tropes:
• brother’s best friend
• second chance
• forced proximity
• dual timeline
holly is an autobuy author of mine, so when she announced right where you left me, i needed it immediately!
right where you left me is a story filled with love, yearning, friendship, heartbreak, and nostalgia. twist and turns that had me gasping! filled with emotions i felt up until the last page! and characters i’ll be thinking about for a long time!
paxton and ivy were everything! i need more of them because the way paxton loves ivy, has me in tears! the side characters.. holly, we need to talk 😭
if you want a book that will take you back to the 2000s, on a rollercoaster of emotions, and have you on the edge of your seat, this book is it! 🤍
tropes:
• brother’s best friend
• second chance
• forced proximity
• dual timeline
holly is an autobuy author of mine, so when she announced right where you left me, i needed it immediately!
right where you left me is a story filled with love, yearning, friendship, heartbreak, and nostalgia. twist and turns that had me gasping! filled with emotions i felt up until the last page! and characters i’ll be thinking about for a long time!
paxton and ivy were everything! i need more of them because the way paxton loves ivy, has me in tears! the side characters.. holly, we need to talk 😭
if you want a book that will take you back to the 2000s, on a rollercoaster of emotions, and have you on the edge of your seat, this book is it! 🤍
February 16, 2026
A Second Chance Wrapped in 2000s Nostalgia
If I hadn’t started this on my Disney vacation, I would have devoured it in one sitting. Between park days and chasing my toddler, I had to pace myself, but I absolutely did not want to.
The nostalgia hit hard in the best way. Burned CDs I spent hours perfecting. MySpace updates like they were life or death. Coming home to put on Gilmore Girls, which I still own on DVD and will never get rid of. It brought me straight back to middle school and high school (class of ’07) and all the feelings that came with it.
The emotional ride Holly takes you on in this story wrecks you, in the best way, before putting you back together.
The dual timelines were done so well. Every flashback mattered. It added depth instead of slowing the story down. I understood Ivy. I understood Pax. I never felt like I had to choose a side because their choices made sense for who they were at the time. That balance made it hurt even more.
There were moments I was smiling and moments where my chest physically ached. The friendships and side characters made everything feel layered and real.
The highs are high. The lows are low. If you love an emotional second chance romance that actually earns its ending, this one will get you.
If I hadn’t started this on my Disney vacation, I would have devoured it in one sitting. Between park days and chasing my toddler, I had to pace myself, but I absolutely did not want to.
The nostalgia hit hard in the best way. Burned CDs I spent hours perfecting. MySpace updates like they were life or death. Coming home to put on Gilmore Girls, which I still own on DVD and will never get rid of. It brought me straight back to middle school and high school (class of ’07) and all the feelings that came with it.
The emotional ride Holly takes you on in this story wrecks you, in the best way, before putting you back together.
The dual timelines were done so well. Every flashback mattered. It added depth instead of slowing the story down. I understood Ivy. I understood Pax. I never felt like I had to choose a side because their choices made sense for who they were at the time. That balance made it hurt even more.
There were moments I was smiling and moments where my chest physically ached. The friendships and side characters made everything feel layered and real.
The highs are high. The lows are low. If you love an emotional second chance romance that actually earns its ending, this one will get you.
February 27, 2026
In every decade, every era, every lifetime, I'd want you...
If you want to be hit with some 2000s nostalgia this brother's best friend romance delivered. This was an emotional ride I wasn't expecting to take. I really enjoyed how the dual timeline was written really showcasing how the timing was everything. Ivy and Paxton's slow-burning romance will make your heart ache in the best way. It was beautiful how they went from friends, to crushes, to lovers...It hurt so good. The yearning was so good. Their second chance was so worth all they went through. Get your tissues ready...
Tropes:
Friends to lovers
Brother's best friend
Hickey player
Dual timeline
Second chance
Slow-burn
Forced proximity
Dual POV
Check TW
Thank you Luna Literary and Holly Caste for the opportunity to read this book.
If you want to be hit with some 2000s nostalgia this brother's best friend romance delivered. This was an emotional ride I wasn't expecting to take. I really enjoyed how the dual timeline was written really showcasing how the timing was everything. Ivy and Paxton's slow-burning romance will make your heart ache in the best way. It was beautiful how they went from friends, to crushes, to lovers...It hurt so good. The yearning was so good. Their second chance was so worth all they went through. Get your tissues ready...
Tropes:
Friends to lovers
Brother's best friend
Hickey player
Dual timeline
Second chance
Slow-burn
Forced proximity
Dual POV
Check TW
Thank you Luna Literary and Holly Caste for the opportunity to read this book.
February 20, 2026
Right Where You Left Me by Holly Caste
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
💖second chance romance
💝forced proximity
💖best friends brother
💝Y2K Nostalgia
When I wasn’t reading this book I was thinking about it!! This book was a second chance, best friends brother, sports romance!!! It was a rollercoaster of emotions and the dual POV and flashbacks allowed us to watch Ivy & Paxton fall in love twice over. You could really feel the magnetic force between these characters which is part of the reason I flew through this book so quickly.
This story beautifully describes the ache of poor timing in a relationship and the lasting impact of the one who got away. I HIGHLY recommend you checkout this book! A huge thank you to Luna Literary & Holly Caste for giving me this ARC!
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
💖second chance romance
💝forced proximity
💖best friends brother
💝Y2K Nostalgia
When I wasn’t reading this book I was thinking about it!! This book was a second chance, best friends brother, sports romance!!! It was a rollercoaster of emotions and the dual POV and flashbacks allowed us to watch Ivy & Paxton fall in love twice over. You could really feel the magnetic force between these characters which is part of the reason I flew through this book so quickly.
This story beautifully describes the ache of poor timing in a relationship and the lasting impact of the one who got away. I HIGHLY recommend you checkout this book! A huge thank you to Luna Literary & Holly Caste for giving me this ARC!
February 10, 2026
I adored the throwback pop culture references in this book!! I usually have a hard time switching back and forth between timelines in a story this often, but Holly pulled it off so smoothly! The rollercoaster of emotions this book had me on was a total trip and the chemistry between the MCs had me clutching my hypothetical pearls 🔥
Needless to say, I highly recommend checking out Right Where You Left Me (especially if you love the millennial pop culture references!) and I’ll be tuning in for Holly’s next release for sure.
Thanks to Luna Library and Holly Caste for the opportunity to read this advanced copy! As usual, all opinions are my own. ❤️
Needless to say, I highly recommend checking out Right Where You Left Me (especially if you love the millennial pop culture references!) and I’ll be tuning in for Holly’s next release for sure.
Thanks to Luna Library and Holly Caste for the opportunity to read this advanced copy! As usual, all opinions are my own. ❤️
February 11, 2026
Right Where You Left Me by Holly Caste is a heart-tugging second chance romance that leans hard into all the best tropes. The brother’s best friend dynamic adds quiet tension, while the forced proximity of a wedding reunion drags years of unresolved feelings back to the surface. It’s a true slow burn, built on longing, regret, and everything left unsaid. The grumpy/sunshine, opposites attract pairing works beautifully as both characters navigate healing, caretaking, and past trauma in a cozy small-town setting. Emotional, tender, and deeply nostalgic—this one hurts softly and lingers long after the last page. 💔✨
February 25, 2026
Thank you Luna literary and Holly Caste for giving me the chance to read this brilliant ARC book!!! It’ll be going down as a top read of 2026 for me!!! The use of flashbacks was perfect, really aiding with the character development and making the main characters relationship that much sweeter and drawn out. I also really loved both the main characters, and their imperfections, and how neither of them ended up truly being the villain in the story. Plus, although the ending was a little rushed for my taste, it also involves some truly fantastic twists and turns I did not see coming. 5⭐️
Tropes
- Second chance
- Childhood crush
- Brothers best friend
- Friends to enemies to lovers
- Forced proximity
- Fwb
Spice level- 3.75/5🌶️
Tropes
- Second chance
- Childhood crush
- Brothers best friend
- Friends to enemies to lovers
- Forced proximity
- Fwb
Spice level- 3.75/5🌶️
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