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Love, unfinished
Aria Price arrived at Horizon Point University determined to start over, committed to her future music career. But once Chase Knight reappears, the past she assumed was left behind comes rushing back. As middle school classmates with secret crushes they never confessed, their connection was left unresolved—and unfinished.Now carrying dreams of their own, Aria and Chase are forced to confront buried feelings and missed chances along with a question yet to be what if the timing had been right? Can they pursue their dreams and still find time for love?
- GenresNew Adult
420 pages, Kindle Edition
Published June 1, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 56 reviews
June 4, 2026
✨ ARC Review: Love, Unfinished by D. A. Alston ✨
Love, Unfinished is a heartfelt, emotional romance that explores what happens when the past and present collide in the most unexpected way. From the very beginning, I was drawn into Aria and Chase’s story, two people whose connection started long before college but was left lingering in the space of “what if.”
Aria arrives at Horizon Point University focused on her goals and determined to build a future in music. She is grounded in her ambition, and I really appreciated how her dreams were not sidelined for romance but instead woven into who she is as a character. Chase’s reappearance brings a wave of emotions she thought she had already outgrown, and watching that dynamic unfold felt both tender and realistic.
What stood out most to me was the way D. A. Alston balanced romance with personal growth. This is not just a love story, but also a story about timing, healing, and figuring out who you are while still holding space for someone who once meant something deeply to you. The college setting added a refreshing layer of transition and self-discovery that made the story feel relatable and grounded.
Aria and Chase’s connection felt genuine and easy to root for. Their history added depth to their present interactions, and I loved how their story unfolded without feeling rushed. The emotional pull between them was steady throughout, and it kept me engaged from start to finish.
I also appreciated the themes of ambition and self-focus. Both characters are actively building their futures, and the story raises the question of whether love can grow alongside personal goals rather than in place of them. That balance made the romance feel even more meaningful.
Overall, Love, Unfinished is a sweet and thoughtful read filled with nostalgia, second chances, and emotional depth. If you enjoy Black romance, childhood crushes, college settings, and stories that focus on both love and personal growth, this one is definitely worth adding to your TBR.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.
Love, Unfinished is a heartfelt, emotional romance that explores what happens when the past and present collide in the most unexpected way. From the very beginning, I was drawn into Aria and Chase’s story, two people whose connection started long before college but was left lingering in the space of “what if.”
Aria arrives at Horizon Point University focused on her goals and determined to build a future in music. She is grounded in her ambition, and I really appreciated how her dreams were not sidelined for romance but instead woven into who she is as a character. Chase’s reappearance brings a wave of emotions she thought she had already outgrown, and watching that dynamic unfold felt both tender and realistic.
What stood out most to me was the way D. A. Alston balanced romance with personal growth. This is not just a love story, but also a story about timing, healing, and figuring out who you are while still holding space for someone who once meant something deeply to you. The college setting added a refreshing layer of transition and self-discovery that made the story feel relatable and grounded.
Aria and Chase’s connection felt genuine and easy to root for. Their history added depth to their present interactions, and I loved how their story unfolded without feeling rushed. The emotional pull between them was steady throughout, and it kept me engaged from start to finish.
I also appreciated the themes of ambition and self-focus. Both characters are actively building their futures, and the story raises the question of whether love can grow alongside personal goals rather than in place of them. That balance made the romance feel even more meaningful.
Overall, Love, Unfinished is a sweet and thoughtful read filled with nostalgia, second chances, and emotional depth. If you enjoy Black romance, childhood crushes, college settings, and stories that focus on both love and personal growth, this one is definitely worth adding to your TBR.
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Thank you to the author for the ARC in exchange for an honest review. All thoughts are my own.
June 2, 2026
Actual rating 3.5
This was such a cute read.
I found Aria to be very relatable, esp with her being the oldest daughter… iykyk!
I also found myself thinking of my first year of college, living in the dorms… very nostalgic!
I loved how patient and mature Chase was! The way he knew Aria needed a safe space and provided it for her was so damn sweet! And at such a young age!! It was very adorable! Esp since he was dealing with his own issues with his father.
Together they provided comfort and care for each other.
They healed and grew together and I loved that.
This was such a cute read.
I found Aria to be very relatable, esp with her being the oldest daughter… iykyk!
I also found myself thinking of my first year of college, living in the dorms… very nostalgic!
I loved how patient and mature Chase was! The way he knew Aria needed a safe space and provided it for her was so damn sweet! And at such a young age!! It was very adorable! Esp since he was dealing with his own issues with his father.
Together they provided comfort and care for each other.
They healed and grew together and I loved that.
June 5, 2026
Thank you to D.A. Alston for the amazing ARC opportunity!
Love, Unfinished is an amazing, thoughtful, Young Adult romance. This story brought me back to being young and living on campus. Aria and Chase reconnecting after five years, building a friendship and relationship, was so beautiful to read. Watching them heal from their respective pasts and show up for one another was truly touching. No spice, but it has emotional depth that makes it all worth it.
I especially loved Chase being in therapy... that is something I feel young black adults need to not only do in real life but have representation in stories.
I would definitely recommend this if you love Young adult romance or if you are a young adult yourself.
Love, Unfinished is an amazing, thoughtful, Young Adult romance. This story brought me back to being young and living on campus. Aria and Chase reconnecting after five years, building a friendship and relationship, was so beautiful to read. Watching them heal from their respective pasts and show up for one another was truly touching. No spice, but it has emotional depth that makes it all worth it.
I especially loved Chase being in therapy... that is something I feel young black adults need to not only do in real life but have representation in stories.
I would definitely recommend this if you love Young adult romance or if you are a young adult yourself.
June 5, 2026
This was such a cute and sweet college love story 🥹 the ending made me BAWL
June 15, 2026
🌟🌟🌟🌟💫
✨️ARC review of Love, unfinished by D.A. Alston✨️
All thoughts and feelings are my own.
*Could be minor spoilers so I'll mark it as such, but I don't think so*
Firstly, I just want to say thank you to D.A. Alston for the opportunity to read your book as an ARC reader. Even though I did not get to read and review it before your release date (and I do apologize for that), I can truthfully say that it was WORTH. THE. READ. I really appreciated how well you conveyed the feelings of each character with impeccable attention to detail. As someone with anxiety, I really felt like I was being seen throughout this read.
Aria is truly a kindred spirit for me. We each have anxiety, love music (though I definitely could never create it), and our favorite flower is a Sunflower! She deserves the entire world for going through what she did and coming out the other side stronger than before. Sometimes all it takes is someone believing in you for you to believe in yourself. She really overcame so much and I truly feel like I can take on anything now after knowing she did.
As for Chase? That boy deserves so much. He's definitely one of the sweetest MMCs I've ever read about in a book and I am a SUCKER for nicknames. #superstar I applaud him for realizing that his dream was different from his dad's and for actually following through.
Second chance romance is not usually my favorite but I definitely think this was a big exception. I love that he pined for her ever since 8th grade and that they found eachother again. I thought it was so goofy that they both didn't want to let the other know they knew eachother for different reasons.
Overall, I would rate this a 4.5/5 stars!! Would absolutely recommend and I would totally read it again!! I look forward to any other books written by D.A. Alston and I would absolutely loveee to ARC read for her again!
*minor spoiler*
I will say, I did kind of want Aria to explain to Chase what happened that day of her 8th grade talent show. I might've somehow missed it, but I don't know. I guess it wasn't tooo important that he knows because I'm sure he can kind of understand regardless- and they're happy together now- so no need!!
*bigger spoiler*
MRS. KNIGHT?? I was NOT expecting that. Ouch.
THE WEDDING?? AAAAAA.
✨️ARC review of Love, unfinished by D.A. Alston✨️
All thoughts and feelings are my own.
*Could be minor spoilers so I'll mark it as such, but I don't think so*
Firstly, I just want to say thank you to D.A. Alston for the opportunity to read your book as an ARC reader. Even though I did not get to read and review it before your release date (and I do apologize for that), I can truthfully say that it was WORTH. THE. READ. I really appreciated how well you conveyed the feelings of each character with impeccable attention to detail. As someone with anxiety, I really felt like I was being seen throughout this read.
Aria is truly a kindred spirit for me. We each have anxiety, love music (though I definitely could never create it), and our favorite flower is a Sunflower! She deserves the entire world for going through what she did and coming out the other side stronger than before. Sometimes all it takes is someone believing in you for you to believe in yourself. She really overcame so much and I truly feel like I can take on anything now after knowing she did.
As for Chase? That boy deserves so much. He's definitely one of the sweetest MMCs I've ever read about in a book and I am a SUCKER for nicknames. #superstar I applaud him for realizing that his dream was different from his dad's and for actually following through.
Second chance romance is not usually my favorite but I definitely think this was a big exception. I love that he pined for her ever since 8th grade and that they found eachother again. I thought it was so goofy that they both didn't want to let the other know they knew eachother for different reasons.
Overall, I would rate this a 4.5/5 stars!! Would absolutely recommend and I would totally read it again!! I look forward to any other books written by D.A. Alston and I would absolutely loveee to ARC read for her again!
*minor spoiler*
I will say, I did kind of want Aria to explain to Chase what happened that day of her 8th grade talent show. I might've somehow missed it, but I don't know. I guess it wasn't tooo important that he knows because I'm sure he can kind of understand regardless- and they're happy together now- so no need!!
*bigger spoiler*
MRS. KNIGHT?? I was NOT expecting that. Ouch.
THE WEDDING?? AAAAAA.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Review of advance copy
Love, Unfinished
I really adored this cute and wholesome New Adult novel. It centers around two college students, Aria and Chase, and their journey of self discovery while handling the different family issues that they have and becoming adults. Chase comes from a prominent family, and he has a father that's extremely overbearing. What he wants for his future and what his dad wants just doesn't align, and Chase is constantly under intense pressure to live up to his standards. The only issue with that is that he is miserable and being untrue to himself in return. Aria on the other hand, comes from what's considered to be a broken family, where she is the eldest child and has had to grow up much sooner than she should've to help with the load left by her father's absence. He left his family to follow his musical dreams, and although he's not her favorite person, she has inherited his musical ability. Wanting to much some much needed distance between her and her home life, she moves away to attend college where she bumps into the little kid who is now a grown man that she met years ago. Some crushes go away over the years, or at least simmer down. Not for Chase because as soon as recognition set in, all those feelings came rushing right back of the feelingshe had for her when they were kids. Even though he has said that he does not have time for relationships or any other distractions, letting Aria get away again just doesn't sit well with him. Aria has become so guarded over the years that she has a bad habit of getting in her own way. Lucky for her, she has an awesome self appointed bestie named Reign that refuses to let her self destruct. Everybody needs a friend like her. To know how this story unfolds, please be sure to grab your copy on June 1st!!! Thanks again for this Arc opportunity
I really adored this cute and wholesome New Adult novel. It centers around two college students, Aria and Chase, and their journey of self discovery while handling the different family issues that they have and becoming adults. Chase comes from a prominent family, and he has a father that's extremely overbearing. What he wants for his future and what his dad wants just doesn't align, and Chase is constantly under intense pressure to live up to his standards. The only issue with that is that he is miserable and being untrue to himself in return. Aria on the other hand, comes from what's considered to be a broken family, where she is the eldest child and has had to grow up much sooner than she should've to help with the load left by her father's absence. He left his family to follow his musical dreams, and although he's not her favorite person, she has inherited his musical ability. Wanting to much some much needed distance between her and her home life, she moves away to attend college where she bumps into the little kid who is now a grown man that she met years ago. Some crushes go away over the years, or at least simmer down. Not for Chase because as soon as recognition set in, all those feelings came rushing right back of the feelingshe had for her when they were kids. Even though he has said that he does not have time for relationships or any other distractions, letting Aria get away again just doesn't sit well with him. Aria has become so guarded over the years that she has a bad habit of getting in her own way. Lucky for her, she has an awesome self appointed bestie named Reign that refuses to let her self destruct. Everybody needs a friend like her. To know how this story unfolds, please be sure to grab your copy on June 1st!!! Thanks again for this Arc opportunity
Review of advance copy received from Author
Where do I even start? This book was so sweet, and I honestly loved everything about it. The character growth and the love were some of my favorite parts. Aria tried so hard to avoid making friends and stay away from love while Chase spent most of his life trying to follow the dreams his dad wanted for him instead of his own. What I really loved about this book is that it showed that it's okay to fall in love while still chasing your dreams. The romance between Aria and Chase was so cute, and I loved watching their relationship grow. I was so happy when Chase finally stood up to his dad and decided to follow the path he wanted for himself. I also loved seeing Aria realize that it's okay to let people in and allow herself to be loved. The found family trope was done so well. I loved the friendships and relationships between Aria, Chase, Regin, Maddie, Jackson, and Nate. They were all young adults just trying to figure life out together. This book hit close to home for me because of the anxiety representation and the storyline about having a father who was there for part of your life and then suddenly wasn't. The mental health representation was handled really well, and I appreciated that Chase recognized how much therapy helped him. It was nice seeing A Man in therapy and trying to better himself. Watching him slowly break down Aria's walls was heartwarming, and it made me love their relationship even more. This was such a sweet story about love, healing, friendship, and finding your own path.
June 7, 2026
This story was so adorably wholesome! I'm a sucker for second chance romances, and Aria and Chase's story is no exception. While they may have met in 8th grade, they have a lot of unfinished business that begins to unfold when they meet again unexpectedly in college.
I really enjoyed the way Alston showcased these characters and revealed their struggles while also allowing them to find their stride. Aria was always used to supporting her mom instead of focusing on herself and her wants and needs. College meant a fresh opportunity for her and a taste of freedom she'd never had.
The same thing can be said about Chase. He'd been coached into following in his father's footsteps, but underneath it all, he had his own passions he'd like to explore. After seeing Aria again after five years of wondering what happened to her, he realized maybe his true dreams were attainable.
The healthy exploration of relationships in this book was amazing to read. Everyone was super kind and emotionally mature (minus the fathers, iykyk) throughout the story making for a relaxing and healing read. And while Chase was someone who saw her for who she truly was, Aria still made sure to focus on herself and her own journey throughout the book. Chase was no different.
So excited to see where the next book in this series go!!
I really enjoyed the way Alston showcased these characters and revealed their struggles while also allowing them to find their stride. Aria was always used to supporting her mom instead of focusing on herself and her wants and needs. College meant a fresh opportunity for her and a taste of freedom she'd never had.
The same thing can be said about Chase. He'd been coached into following in his father's footsteps, but underneath it all, he had his own passions he'd like to explore. After seeing Aria again after five years of wondering what happened to her, he realized maybe his true dreams were attainable.
The healthy exploration of relationships in this book was amazing to read. Everyone was super kind and emotionally mature (minus the fathers, iykyk) throughout the story making for a relaxing and healing read. And while Chase was someone who saw her for who she truly was, Aria still made sure to focus on herself and her own journey throughout the book. Chase was no different.
So excited to see where the next book in this series go!!
July 16, 2026
5/5 ✨✨✨✨✨
Destined to meet again, Chase and Aria are THEE dream team. Chase and Aria met in 8th grade. Chase the popular heart throb that owned a pool (very important in 8th grade LOL) and Aria the smart witted mysterious girl in class.
On paper, these two wouldn’t be likely to enter each other’s obit however in this story, you can’t deny the gravitational pull between these two! Read love unfinished to read a story about family trauma, betrayal, healing, self discovery, and love! You will fall in love with the characters just as much as I did, if not MORE! Aria is a musician whose mothers strength comes from her resilience.Going away to school is her opportunity to remove all of the responsibilities that were never truly hers and allow her to create boundaries and truly find herself and her chosen family.
Chase, on the other hand, comes from privileged beginnings and one would think his life is perfect and that HE is perfect. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth. He finds himself battling an internal battle on whether he’s following the path for himself or one that’s been already carved out for him. Throughout the story he slowly finds that he deserves true happiness and finds his way.
To the author, thank you for writing a story that made me feel seen. Thank you for writing a love story that’s authentic, meaningful, and beautiful. This is the love we need to see! I truly enjoyed reading your book and it is one of my favorites!!! I really connected with the characters and can’t wait to read more of your books!!
Destined to meet again, Chase and Aria are THEE dream team. Chase and Aria met in 8th grade. Chase the popular heart throb that owned a pool (very important in 8th grade LOL) and Aria the smart witted mysterious girl in class.
On paper, these two wouldn’t be likely to enter each other’s obit however in this story, you can’t deny the gravitational pull between these two! Read love unfinished to read a story about family trauma, betrayal, healing, self discovery, and love! You will fall in love with the characters just as much as I did, if not MORE! Aria is a musician whose mothers strength comes from her resilience.Going away to school is her opportunity to remove all of the responsibilities that were never truly hers and allow her to create boundaries and truly find herself and her chosen family.
Chase, on the other hand, comes from privileged beginnings and one would think his life is perfect and that HE is perfect. However, that couldn’t be further from the truth. He finds himself battling an internal battle on whether he’s following the path for himself or one that’s been already carved out for him. Throughout the story he slowly finds that he deserves true happiness and finds his way.
To the author, thank you for writing a story that made me feel seen. Thank you for writing a love story that’s authentic, meaningful, and beautiful. This is the love we need to see! I truly enjoyed reading your book and it is one of my favorites!!! I really connected with the characters and can’t wait to read more of your books!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you D.A. Alston for the opportunity to review this ARC. This is my honest opinion.
This story gave me all the feels!!! Young, new, pure love...so precious and deep. I highly recommend this book for a reader looking for a New Adult, character-driven second chance romance with strong character development and realistic themes. The main characters navigate self-discovery, strained parental relationships, and mental health challenges while finding their way to each other in this swoon-worthy tale.
Fate, coincidence or luck brings Chase and Aria back together after 5 years as they embark on a new phase of life in college. They are challenged personally to find themselves and heal old wounds, while exploring old missed connections. They have to find out if it was just a 8th grade crush or the foundation for something real.
Alston did a wonderful job of capturing the angst, passion and quest for identity of the new adult entering college. She didn't push these characters beyond their years, she gave them an innocence that stayed while they grew together. I enjoyed the dual POV that intensified the equal longing and pining. It also gave insight into minor characters that will likely be unravelled in future books. I thoroughly enjoyed this read and look forward to reading more work by D.A. Alston.
This story gave me all the feels!!! Young, new, pure love...so precious and deep. I highly recommend this book for a reader looking for a New Adult, character-driven second chance romance with strong character development and realistic themes. The main characters navigate self-discovery, strained parental relationships, and mental health challenges while finding their way to each other in this swoon-worthy tale.
Fate, coincidence or luck brings Chase and Aria back together after 5 years as they embark on a new phase of life in college. They are challenged personally to find themselves and heal old wounds, while exploring old missed connections. They have to find out if it was just a 8th grade crush or the foundation for something real.
Alston did a wonderful job of capturing the angst, passion and quest for identity of the new adult entering college. She didn't push these characters beyond their years, she gave them an innocence that stayed while they grew together. I enjoyed the dual POV that intensified the equal longing and pining. It also gave insight into minor characters that will likely be unravelled in future books. I thoroughly enjoyed this read and look forward to reading more work by D.A. Alston.
June 1, 2026
This sweet second chance romance see Aria (music major, eldest daughter) and Chase (only child prodigy of his Judge father) starting college. They run into each other in the library and are shocked to see one another - they'd had mutual crushes in middle school and hadn't seen each other in five years. Chase is running for
Student government and on his father's multi-year plan for law school and beyond. Aria is training for a career in the music industry and running a viral anonymous social media career. Neither expected to be derailed in their first semester by ...feelings.
Both MCs are battling feeling unloved by a parent, and Chase is figuring out that doing what is expected may not make him happy. Aria is escaping a childhood of serving others, and coming into her own to play music for herself and not to impress her absent musician father.
I loved how the focus of this story was their emotional connection, rather than physical - they go on dates and deeply discuss this feelings and fears, finding out what it means to have a person show up for them again and again, no matter what. And when the characters made mistakes, they grew from them, and I love it see it, especially when the characters are college freshmen, just learning what it means to be grown up!
*Opinions are my own, and I am grateful to the author for an eARC of this book.
Student government and on his father's multi-year plan for law school and beyond. Aria is training for a career in the music industry and running a viral anonymous social media career. Neither expected to be derailed in their first semester by ...feelings.
Both MCs are battling feeling unloved by a parent, and Chase is figuring out that doing what is expected may not make him happy. Aria is escaping a childhood of serving others, and coming into her own to play music for herself and not to impress her absent musician father.
I loved how the focus of this story was their emotional connection, rather than physical - they go on dates and deeply discuss this feelings and fears, finding out what it means to have a person show up for them again and again, no matter what. And when the characters made mistakes, they grew from them, and I love it see it, especially when the characters are college freshmen, just learning what it means to be grown up!
*Opinions are my own, and I am grateful to the author for an eARC of this book.
June 2, 2026
4 ⭐️
Love, Unfinished was the perfect new adult romance to kick off the summer.
The story follows Aria and Chase, two college students (who also went to middle school together) trying to figure out who they are while dealing with a lot of family pressure. Chase is stuck under the weight of his father’s expectations and desperately wants to carve out his own path. Aria, on the other hand, is still carrying emotional wounds from her childhood and struggles to let people in.
When the two reconnect in college, Chase quickly realizes his childhood crush never really went away. Even though he’s convinced he doesn’t have time for a relationship, he can’t seem to stay away from Aria.
Watching them build a relationship based on friendship and being there for each other was everything. Aria was able help Chase understand that his worth isn’t tied to his father or the accomplishments he thinks he needs to earn his father’s love and respect… and that he is enough in his own. Chase helped Aria with her trust issues and showed her that the people that care about you most will always work hard to stay.
Overall, this was a heartwarming story about growing up, healing from the past, and finding the courage to choose your own future.
Thank you D.A. Alston and Luna Literary for an advanced reader copy of Love, Unfinished (publishing June 1, 2026).
Love, Unfinished was the perfect new adult romance to kick off the summer.
The story follows Aria and Chase, two college students (who also went to middle school together) trying to figure out who they are while dealing with a lot of family pressure. Chase is stuck under the weight of his father’s expectations and desperately wants to carve out his own path. Aria, on the other hand, is still carrying emotional wounds from her childhood and struggles to let people in.
When the two reconnect in college, Chase quickly realizes his childhood crush never really went away. Even though he’s convinced he doesn’t have time for a relationship, he can’t seem to stay away from Aria.
Watching them build a relationship based on friendship and being there for each other was everything. Aria was able help Chase understand that his worth isn’t tied to his father or the accomplishments he thinks he needs to earn his father’s love and respect… and that he is enough in his own. Chase helped Aria with her trust issues and showed her that the people that care about you most will always work hard to stay.
Overall, this was a heartwarming story about growing up, healing from the past, and finding the courage to choose your own future.
Thank you D.A. Alston and Luna Literary for an advanced reader copy of Love, Unfinished (publishing June 1, 2026).
June 6, 2026
Love, unfinished is a story for the oldest parentified daughters and the son’s who want nothing more than be themselves. Aria, our hyper independent introverted FMC, wants no help other than being left alone. Chase, our extroverted high achieving MMC, wants nothing other than to NOT leave Aria alone, lol. Separately our MCs have their own trauma they are working through to just be themselves. It was so relatable (especially to Aria). I enjoyed their separate journeys on working their shit out in order to be together rather than just hurting each other for the hell of it. Our characters despite their own traumas had really healthy communication and I liked that very much!
I appreciate this being a low stakes story. Personally, it allows me to just relax. However, I do wish we got more of the second chance trope. It seemed more like a missed opportunity than anything. We watched them discuss Chase’s back story on page between or MCs but not much of Aria’s. Based on the storyline, I assume it happened off page unless I missed something (also possible). If I didn’t, I think not delving more into aria’s hyper independence would have really helped deepen the overall story! It would’ve give us more to the how and why.
Still this was a solid debut and I look forward to reading more in the future :)
Thank you D.A. Alston and Luna Literary Management for an ARC!
I appreciate this being a low stakes story. Personally, it allows me to just relax. However, I do wish we got more of the second chance trope. It seemed more like a missed opportunity than anything. We watched them discuss Chase’s back story on page between or MCs but not much of Aria’s. Based on the storyline, I assume it happened off page unless I missed something (also possible). If I didn’t, I think not delving more into aria’s hyper independence would have really helped deepen the overall story! It would’ve give us more to the how and why.
Still this was a solid debut and I look forward to reading more in the future :)
Thank you D.A. Alston and Luna Literary Management for an ARC!
June 14, 2026
Second chances
Slow burn
College romance
He falls first
Reverse grumpy sunshine
Aria and Chase
I had a touch of nostalgia reading this book. Experiencing the first days of college, new roommate and campus brought bs I many exciting memories.
The story was quite a journey for our characters. They had a history and unresolved issues. The first meet after middle school was cute. We get to experience their growth through the coming experiences.
Aria is hoping for a new beginning. Being the oldest daughter to a mother that was very dependent on her was not easy. She was pretty much “parentified”. Taking care of her little brothers was expected of her. Horizon point was her chance to become her own person. It took 4 hours and a plane ride for a bit of separation. She loved her family but definitely needed space.
Chase is focused and ambitious. He has a plan, not necessarily his plan but a plan nonetheless. Parental pressures aside, he was a very strong advocate for Aria. He was patient and seemed to know exactly what she needed.
The story covers a lot. Mental health, abandonment issues, family pressure, anxiety, young love and finding peace within yourself.
It has so much to offer and is impossible to cover it all.
Slow burn
College romance
He falls first
Reverse grumpy sunshine
Aria and Chase
I had a touch of nostalgia reading this book. Experiencing the first days of college, new roommate and campus brought bs I many exciting memories.
The story was quite a journey for our characters. They had a history and unresolved issues. The first meet after middle school was cute. We get to experience their growth through the coming experiences.
Aria is hoping for a new beginning. Being the oldest daughter to a mother that was very dependent on her was not easy. She was pretty much “parentified”. Taking care of her little brothers was expected of her. Horizon point was her chance to become her own person. It took 4 hours and a plane ride for a bit of separation. She loved her family but definitely needed space.
Chase is focused and ambitious. He has a plan, not necessarily his plan but a plan nonetheless. Parental pressures aside, he was a very strong advocate for Aria. He was patient and seemed to know exactly what she needed.
The story covers a lot. Mental health, abandonment issues, family pressure, anxiety, young love and finding peace within yourself.
It has so much to offer and is impossible to cover it all.
June 19, 2026
This book had me cheesing and feeling all warm and fuzzy by the end. It turned out to be such a cute read!
I’ll admit, Aria was getting on my nerves in the beginning. She was getting upset over things that felt a little immature at times, but as the story unfolded, it became clear that a lot of that stemmed from unresolved trauma related to her father. Both Aria and Chase were dealing with their own daddy issues and had to figure out who they were outside of those pressures, insecurities, and expectations. That journey of self-discovery ended up being one of my favorite parts of the story.
I also appreciated how Chase wasn’t ashamed of going to therapy and even encouraged Aria to do the same. Seeing therapy normalized—especially for Black men—was refreshing. The Black community is slowly becoming more open to conversations about mental health, and I loved seeing that representation woven naturally into the story.
The book really picked up for me around the 70% mark, once Aria started believing in herself and stopped seeking validation from everyone else. From there, I was fully invested and rooting for her. Chase too! 😅
Overall, this was a sweet, feel-good romance with growth, healing, and plenty of heart. Real cutesy. 💕
I’ll admit, Aria was getting on my nerves in the beginning. She was getting upset over things that felt a little immature at times, but as the story unfolded, it became clear that a lot of that stemmed from unresolved trauma related to her father. Both Aria and Chase were dealing with their own daddy issues and had to figure out who they were outside of those pressures, insecurities, and expectations. That journey of self-discovery ended up being one of my favorite parts of the story.
I also appreciated how Chase wasn’t ashamed of going to therapy and even encouraged Aria to do the same. Seeing therapy normalized—especially for Black men—was refreshing. The Black community is slowly becoming more open to conversations about mental health, and I loved seeing that representation woven naturally into the story.
The book really picked up for me around the 70% mark, once Aria started believing in herself and stopped seeking validation from everyone else. From there, I was fully invested and rooting for her. Chase too! 😅
Overall, this was a sweet, feel-good romance with growth, healing, and plenty of heart. Real cutesy. 💕
June 18, 2026
A really refreshingly sweet and honest take on young adulthood and navigating those crucial first years of piecing together who you want to be as you move forward towards independence. Chase and Aria knew each other in 8th grade then randomly run into each other freshman year of university. Who are they know and what can they be to each other? The beauty of the two leads is that while they complement each other, the author always drives home the importance of self-love, healing, and the adventure to find one's self. Both our leads are grappling with some difficult parental dynamics and to say this was a cathartic read for me was an understatement. I'm a sucker for any time characters learn to set boundaries and advocate for themselves. This has me feeling so fulfilled and teary eyes by the end. A truly comforting and smooth read with a lovely dose of mental health rep and some really beautiful food for thought. That we may be loved, but that doesn't automatically correlate to being chosen. Some really powerful self-discovery, identity making moments, and empowering found family dynamics. What a truly enjoyable read!
June 4, 2026
Cue “Young Love” by Chris Brown
Thank you D.A. Alston and Luna Literary for the ARC! I truly enjoyed this one from beginning to end.
Love, Unfinished was cute, emotional, funny, and honest in a way that made the story feel real. College is already a huge adjustment, but adding family stress, pressure, and unexpected feelings into the mix makes everything even more complicated.
Watching Chase and Aria reconnect felt like fate stepping back in at the perfect time. The emotional depth between them was captured beautifully, and I appreciated that their relationship wasn’t portrayed as perfect. Young love is messy, confusing, passionate, and sometimes impulsive and this story embraced all of that. Freshman year is already hard enough and these two want to add feelings on top of it!
What I loved most is that despite everything, Chase and Aria continued to show up for each other. Their connection felt genuine and heartfelt.
I’m definitely excited to continue this series and hopefully get stories about their friend group too! This reads as a new adult contemporary type romance with no spice so it’s perfect for a high school/college aged reader
Thank you D.A. Alston and Luna Literary for the ARC! I truly enjoyed this one from beginning to end.
Love, Unfinished was cute, emotional, funny, and honest in a way that made the story feel real. College is already a huge adjustment, but adding family stress, pressure, and unexpected feelings into the mix makes everything even more complicated.
Watching Chase and Aria reconnect felt like fate stepping back in at the perfect time. The emotional depth between them was captured beautifully, and I appreciated that their relationship wasn’t portrayed as perfect. Young love is messy, confusing, passionate, and sometimes impulsive and this story embraced all of that. Freshman year is already hard enough and these two want to add feelings on top of it!
What I loved most is that despite everything, Chase and Aria continued to show up for each other. Their connection felt genuine and heartfelt.
I’m definitely excited to continue this series and hopefully get stories about their friend group too! This reads as a new adult contemporary type romance with no spice so it’s perfect for a high school/college aged reader
June 4, 2026
I absolutely adored this book. The character growth throughout the book was heartwarming. To see Aria open up and find who she wanted to be without the pressures from her homelife and the disappointment from her father was astonishing. Her hard exterior just made her that more lovable when she finally started to open up to Chase and her roommate. I love seeing her build a friendship with her roommate, but also learn to laugh and love with Chase. Chase is the absolute sweetest. He cares so much for Aria, and he shows that every single time. I love that he stands out from the norm. Not only being a man to go to therapy, but as a black male to go to therapy is amazing in every way. It was amazing to see him go down a path that finally makes him happy and stand up to his controlling father. The ending had me misty-eyed, but overall it was such a lovely book. I highly recommend!!
Just know the "Babygirl" had me swooning!!
Thank you so much to D.A. Alston and Luna Literary for giving me the opportunity to ARC this lovely book!
Just know the "Babygirl" had me swooning!!
Thank you so much to D.A. Alston and Luna Literary for giving me the opportunity to ARC this lovely book!
June 4, 2026
ARC Review:
Love unfinished by D.A. Halston
Warning in advance, there is no spice in this book! But there is depth!! A MUST read!
I have soooo much to say about this book. It wasn’t your typical love story, but it was a lesson. A lesson that many of us don’t learn until we are faced with the giants of our past and present. So many times we lose ourselves trying to fulfill the dreams of what others want for us instead of what we want. This affects us in ways that can leave a violent impact in our lives.
Aria and Chase experienced a level of expectations that not only caused doubt in themselves, but it caused doubt in their love. What I love about this story is that D.A. Alston allowed both characters to find their way BEFORE they found themselves back to each other. Each word that was written was definitely relatable in many ways. The character development was out of this world! You can literally see how each character changed from beginning to the end.
Stop living for others. Live for yourself. No
Love unfinished by D.A. Halston
Warning in advance, there is no spice in this book! But there is depth!! A MUST read!
I have soooo much to say about this book. It wasn’t your typical love story, but it was a lesson. A lesson that many of us don’t learn until we are faced with the giants of our past and present. So many times we lose ourselves trying to fulfill the dreams of what others want for us instead of what we want. This affects us in ways that can leave a violent impact in our lives.
Aria and Chase experienced a level of expectations that not only caused doubt in themselves, but it caused doubt in their love. What I love about this story is that D.A. Alston allowed both characters to find their way BEFORE they found themselves back to each other. Each word that was written was definitely relatable in many ways. The character development was out of this world! You can literally see how each character changed from beginning to the end.
Stop living for others. Live for yourself. No
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
June 8, 2026
Aria Price, a dedicated music prodigy, arrives as a freshman at Horizon Point University to focus on ONE thing: her music career. Her plan and focus are taken elsewhere when she runs into her childhood classmate, Chase Knight. Chase is funny charismatic and has also been pining for the girl in his 8th grade class for 5 years. Shocked to see her standing in front of him, miles away from home, no better time than now to resolve the unresolved. Both work through there on self-discovery, overcoming imposed expectations and create a space to love one another.
I eat up a grumpy/sunshine! What a cute, quick read! I really loved how Chase handled Area with such care and in modeling that she was able to do the same for him. Both find comfort in each other’s arms while working through their own struggles as they transition into adulthood and overcome parental expectations as well as parental disappointments.
A first D.A. Aston read and I look forward to reading more. Thank you @thedawayy and @lunaliterary.management for this ARC!
I eat up a grumpy/sunshine! What a cute, quick read! I really loved how Chase handled Area with such care and in modeling that she was able to do the same for him. Both find comfort in each other’s arms while working through their own struggles as they transition into adulthood and overcome parental expectations as well as parental disappointments.
A first D.A. Aston read and I look forward to reading more. Thank you @thedawayy and @lunaliterary.management for this ARC!
Review of advance copy
ARC Review:
4.5 ⭐
Tropes:
Second Chance
Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
College Romance
Mental Health Rep
Hoping for a fresh start at Horizon Point University, Aria Price is completely focused on her music career until Chase Knight walks back into her world. Their connection goes back to middle school, where secret crushes were never confessed, leaving their bond entirely unresolved and unfinished. Now, as college students balancing big ambitions, they must confront their past feelings and find out if the timing is finally right for love.
This book was so incredibly sweet and I was very swooned by the characters. I swear the yearning from Chase was absolutely immaculate from beginning to end!
I loved how therapy-positive this story is, showcasing a genuinely happy, healthy friendship that beautifully evolves into a relationship.
A huge thank you to Luna Literary and the author for providing this ARC!
4.5 ⭐
Tropes:
Second Chance
Reverse Grumpy x Sunshine
College Romance
Mental Health Rep
Hoping for a fresh start at Horizon Point University, Aria Price is completely focused on her music career until Chase Knight walks back into her world. Their connection goes back to middle school, where secret crushes were never confessed, leaving their bond entirely unresolved and unfinished. Now, as college students balancing big ambitions, they must confront their past feelings and find out if the timing is finally right for love.
This book was so incredibly sweet and I was very swooned by the characters. I swear the yearning from Chase was absolutely immaculate from beginning to end!
I loved how therapy-positive this story is, showcasing a genuinely happy, healthy friendship that beautifully evolves into a relationship.
A huge thank you to Luna Literary and the author for providing this ARC!
Review of advance copy received from Author
“I wasn’t alone anymore. I didn’t find my family, they found me.”
📚Type- E-Arc from Luna Literary
🎼Song Vibe- Every Kind of Way by H.E.R
💬POV- Dual
💞Relationship- MF
🌶️Spice- No Some Kissing
💭Thoughts at 24%
His obsession is too cute! Plus the gold chain with the baby girl swoon!
💭Thoughts at 45%
I love the friendship with Aria and Reign. Everyone needs a Reign in their life.
💭Thoughts at 80%
The healing they are both doing!!
📝Review📝
As an eldest daughter with younger brothers this book hit every emotion and shows the pressures we put on ourselves. It is a great representation of that, also with how the father issues are dealt with on both sides are very different and shows how it affects each of them. This story is not only romantic and swoony but also packs the emotions. I think the biggest take aways that were so amazing was Aria being very open with Chase about leaning on each other as well as choosing yourself, and when she said “being loved isn’t the same as being chosen.” I thought that was the perfect line. I am excited for what comes next in this series. I am invested in the side characters particularly Reign as well as Chase’s friends Jackson and Nate.
~~What to Expect~~
🎸College
🎨Second Chance
🎸Musician FMC
🎨Artist MMC
🎸Found Family
🎨Secret Identity
🎸Black Cat X Golden Retriever
🎨Mental Health Rep
🎸Middle School Crushes
~~Quotes~~
🧡This was my new start and nothing was going to stand in my way.
🧡The girl I had been in love with since eighth grade was standing right in front of me.
🧡Your rules, your pace. I’ll just be there to keep up. After all this, I don't want to go back to being nothing.
📚Type- E-Arc from Luna Literary
🎼Song Vibe- Every Kind of Way by H.E.R
💬POV- Dual
💞Relationship- MF
🌶️Spice- No Some Kissing
💭Thoughts at 24%
His obsession is too cute! Plus the gold chain with the baby girl swoon!
💭Thoughts at 45%
I love the friendship with Aria and Reign. Everyone needs a Reign in their life.
💭Thoughts at 80%
The healing they are both doing!!
📝Review📝
As an eldest daughter with younger brothers this book hit every emotion and shows the pressures we put on ourselves. It is a great representation of that, also with how the father issues are dealt with on both sides are very different and shows how it affects each of them. This story is not only romantic and swoony but also packs the emotions. I think the biggest take aways that were so amazing was Aria being very open with Chase about leaning on each other as well as choosing yourself, and when she said “being loved isn’t the same as being chosen.” I thought that was the perfect line. I am excited for what comes next in this series. I am invested in the side characters particularly Reign as well as Chase’s friends Jackson and Nate.
~~What to Expect~~
🎸College
🎨Second Chance
🎸Musician FMC
🎨Artist MMC
🎸Found Family
🎨Secret Identity
🎸Black Cat X Golden Retriever
🎨Mental Health Rep
🎸Middle School Crushes
~~Quotes~~
🧡This was my new start and nothing was going to stand in my way.
🧡The girl I had been in love with since eighth grade was standing right in front of me.
🧡Your rules, your pace. I’ll just be there to keep up. After all this, I don't want to go back to being nothing.
June 1, 2026
I applied for an ARC of this story, and I am so happy I received it. It was a beautiful, softly delivered story about two college students who found solace in each other's truths amid the trials and turmoil of their lives. As our MC, Aria, struggles with anxiety and fear of getting too close to people, Chase, a blast from her past, slowly shows her that he’s willing to be her safe place. Watching her slowly open up and accept him and her roommate as safe spaces in her life was really touching.
Chase himself has his own issues, and I don’t want to go too deep into the ins and outs of their story, but I always find it sweetly refreshing when there’s honesty and vulnerability in a romance. It was thoughtfully written, and I found a lot of inspiration in their internal journeys to finding their places in life.
If you love sweet YA romance with characters who find themselves yet still choose each other, then I suggest you check this story out.
Chase himself has his own issues, and I don’t want to go too deep into the ins and outs of their story, but I always find it sweetly refreshing when there’s honesty and vulnerability in a romance. It was thoughtfully written, and I found a lot of inspiration in their internal journeys to finding their places in life.
If you love sweet YA romance with characters who find themselves yet still choose each other, then I suggest you check this story out.
June 21, 2026
Love, unfinished had me in my feels from beginning to end. The way Chase and Aria are dealing with their own internal battles as well as battles with their parents shows grave maturity from both of them. Chase is battling living in his dad's shadow to become a politician and is losing himself in the process. Aria struggles with self acceptance and having a absentee father, but still wanting to have a relationship with him. These two are not only smart people but brave as they learn to be who they really are whilebuilding a relationship with each other.Chase's super sweet and attentive personality is actually what Aria needs to feel safe. Aria's talent and willingness to put herself out there boosts Chase's confidence in a way that's seen even off the page! I love the story between these two as a couple and as individuals and they remind us that you really do miss every shot you don't take!! D.A. Alston I am loving this book and can't wait for more!!
Review of advance copy received from Author
Let me start off by saying who doesn't love a second chance romance??? This one has great character development, relatable experiences with a feel good undertone. As young adults, life can be challenging managing so many new and unexpected emotions and first time experiences. We get direct insight as we watch both main characters struggles with esteem, mental health, family challenges all while navigating college life Chance was not missing his second opportunity when fate put these two back together. I love a good yearn and this one gave me just that.Despite their own individual struggles,it was refreshing to see them support and encourage each other. They also had some really great friend groups as well.Chance gave major green flag energy throughout. Aria couldn't resist.
June 14, 2026
This is a sweet YA novel that doesn’t shy away from the heavy stuff. Trauma, complicated family dynamics, and first loves all get their moment.
Aria and Chase are brought together by more than just attraction. Both carry wounds from their relationships with their fathers, and that shared pain becomes the foundation of something real.
Chase’s life isn’t quite his. He’s so consumed by becoming who his father wants him to be that he’s lost sight of who he actually is. Aria, on the other hand, steps into herself over the course of the book. She’s emotional but that vulnerability is her strength.
What I loved is that their growth happens independently. Which in turn made them better for each other.
Aria and Chase are brought together by more than just attraction. Both carry wounds from their relationships with their fathers, and that shared pain becomes the foundation of something real.
Chase’s life isn’t quite his. He’s so consumed by becoming who his father wants him to be that he’s lost sight of who he actually is. Aria, on the other hand, steps into herself over the course of the book. She’s emotional but that vulnerability is her strength.
What I loved is that their growth happens independently. Which in turn made them better for each other.
June 19, 2026
Such a sweet story with a reverse grumpy/sunshine dynamic that I really enjoyed.
I loved the friendships. Reign’s friendship with Aria and Jackson’s friendship with Chase gave everything they needed to give. 👏🏽 They added so much heart and depth to the story.
Aria and Chase were perfect for each other. Both are carrying heavy family struggles. Chase is dealing with the constant pressure from his father to be exactly who he expects him to be, while Aria is navigating the disappointment of a father who keeps making promises he never keeps.
Watching them find comfort, understanding, and love in each other made this a beautiful read.
Thanks to Luna Literary and D.A. Alston for the advanced reader copy. This is my honest opinion.
I loved the friendships. Reign’s friendship with Aria and Jackson’s friendship with Chase gave everything they needed to give. 👏🏽 They added so much heart and depth to the story.
Aria and Chase were perfect for each other. Both are carrying heavy family struggles. Chase is dealing with the constant pressure from his father to be exactly who he expects him to be, while Aria is navigating the disappointment of a father who keeps making promises he never keeps.
Watching them find comfort, understanding, and love in each other made this a beautiful read.
Thanks to Luna Literary and D.A. Alston for the advanced reader copy. This is my honest opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Author
Thank you to the author for my copy.
This story was really beautiful with sweet, funny, drama, healing moments. Finding the love of your life, your forever friends, passion and your voice is no small thing. Aria and Chase went together so well. Watching their growth was amazing because the author knew how to move the story forward so naturally. Honestly, I love everything about this book from emails, communication, therapy and more. Highly recommend this to anyone.
SN: Chase 🥰!! Is sweet, romantic, and seeing him head over hills falling first for Aria had me smiling.
This story was really beautiful with sweet, funny, drama, healing moments. Finding the love of your life, your forever friends, passion and your voice is no small thing. Aria and Chase went together so well. Watching their growth was amazing because the author knew how to move the story forward so naturally. Honestly, I love everything about this book from emails, communication, therapy and more. Highly recommend this to anyone.
SN: Chase 🥰!! Is sweet, romantic, and seeing him head over hills falling first for Aria had me smiling.
Review of advance copy received from Author
3.5 stars! Chase and Aria get a chance to be at the same school and go on adventures together and eventually fall in love.
They have their own daddy issues, struggles in different ways, and have friends who become family for them. This book is super sweet, very relatable, but also about finding love and understanding for yourself. It can be hard to get the thoughts out to the one you love but when Chase gets the opportunity to do it, it showers Aria with love. She may have to catch up and realize it but when she does, she falls for him!
They have their own daddy issues, struggles in different ways, and have friends who become family for them. This book is super sweet, very relatable, but also about finding love and understanding for yourself. It can be hard to get the thoughts out to the one you love but when Chase gets the opportunity to do it, it showers Aria with love. She may have to catch up and realize it but when she does, she falls for him!
Review of advance copy received from Author
The firstborn daughters might need to pull out the tissues for this one. Very low on the heat, but high on the emotion. This sweet YA friends to lovers romance was perfect for anyone coming off the Off Campus high.
Chase, the golden boy carrying the weight of his father’s expectations on his shoulders, is paired with Aria, a shy but talented musician trying to rediscover herself after years of playing her family’s savior. I’m realizing I love romances that allow both the MMC and FMC to grow, develop, and discover themselves outside of the relationship as well.
Chase, the golden boy carrying the weight of his father’s expectations on his shoulders, is paired with Aria, a shy but talented musician trying to rediscover herself after years of playing her family’s savior. I’m realizing I love romances that allow both the MMC and FMC to grow, develop, and discover themselves outside of the relationship as well.
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