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If Only You Knew
Shane promised Becca forever, and all she got was heartbreak upon high school graduation.
There was no tomorrow without Shane Philips by Becca’s side. That was until Shane abruptly breaks up with Becca, leaving her alone to face a future without the one person she had grown to love. Learning to maneuver through life after being Shane’s girlfriend since they were fourteen, Becca never imagined an existence that didn’t include them being together.
The pain Becca was left with goes beyond anything she ever expected. Much like life tends to do, time passes and each of them grows into the adults they are today. They live independent lives for twenty-five years before Shane ends up on her doorstep unexpectedly, wanting to rekindle a love that he chose to walk away from. But can Becca truly let go of her anger and embrace what’s right in front of her all these years later? Most of all, can she forgive Shane for walking away?
This is a second-chance love story between two forty-something soulmates who lived entire lives apart only to find a chance to begin again. But when Shane finds out everything he missed, can their love last? If only he knew…
There was no tomorrow without Shane Philips by Becca’s side. That was until Shane abruptly breaks up with Becca, leaving her alone to face a future without the one person she had grown to love. Learning to maneuver through life after being Shane’s girlfriend since they were fourteen, Becca never imagined an existence that didn’t include them being together.
The pain Becca was left with goes beyond anything she ever expected. Much like life tends to do, time passes and each of them grows into the adults they are today. They live independent lives for twenty-five years before Shane ends up on her doorstep unexpectedly, wanting to rekindle a love that he chose to walk away from. But can Becca truly let go of her anger and embrace what’s right in front of her all these years later? Most of all, can she forgive Shane for walking away?
This is a second-chance love story between two forty-something soulmates who lived entire lives apart only to find a chance to begin again. But when Shane finds out everything he missed, can their love last? If only he knew…
342 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 23, 2026
About the author
Stefanie Castro
10 books87 followersAs a first-generation American, born and raised in Southern California, Stefanie found a love for writing after she had built her career in nursing. She continues to work as a full-time nurse in a remote position, but has incorporated writing into her routine, writing at night and when possible during the weekend. She also enjoys reading when time allows. This was never something she imagined possible, but it has opened up a world of connection with readers all across the world. Romance writing is something that has filled her cup and has brought immense joy to her life. Stefanie currently resides in Southern California, with her husband, two kids, and their Cavalier King Charles dog.
Instagram ⇢ @stefaniecastro.author
Email ⇢ stefanie.castro.writes@gmail.com
Instagram ⇢ @stefaniecastro.author
Email ⇢ stefanie.castro.writes@gmail.com
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 128 reviews
July 23, 2026
4🌟, 3🌶️
True love never really fades, and this story proves it beautifully.
Following Becca and Shane as they navigate a massive twenty-five-year gap after a heartbreaking high school breakup was such an emotional ride. Because they were older and had already lived through separate lives, the longing hit on a completely different level, making their reunion feel entirely earned and satisfying.
The emotional depth caught me completely off guard in the best way possible. There is so much history and regret between them, balanced out by incredible chemistry and a bond that time simply could not erase, plus wonderful closure on every plot twist leading into a gorgeous happily ever after.
If you adore high school sweethearts, intense yearning, and characters who still act like teenagers in love, you are going to fall completely for this book. It is a wonderful reminder that true love can survive decades of distance.
This was a wonderfully satisfying happily ever after you will adore.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Stefanie Castro and The Author Agency for the Copy! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
True love never really fades, and this story proves it beautifully.
Following Becca and Shane as they navigate a massive twenty-five-year gap after a heartbreaking high school breakup was such an emotional ride. Because they were older and had already lived through separate lives, the longing hit on a completely different level, making their reunion feel entirely earned and satisfying.
The emotional depth caught me completely off guard in the best way possible. There is so much history and regret between them, balanced out by incredible chemistry and a bond that time simply could not erase, plus wonderful closure on every plot twist leading into a gorgeous happily ever after.
If you adore high school sweethearts, intense yearning, and characters who still act like teenagers in love, you are going to fall completely for this book. It is a wonderful reminder that true love can survive decades of distance.
This was a wonderfully satisfying happily ever after you will adore.
~~~~
Huge thank you to Stefanie Castro and The Author Agency for the Copy! 😍 All my bookish thoughts are completely my own. ✨
October 21, 2023
I adore “second chances” books and this one 100% lined up perfectly with the trope!
These high school sweethearts make so many plans for the future, which include both of their prospective careers, children, and other dreams, only to have those destroyed when Shane mishears a conversation and decides to break up with Rebecca on graduation night because he believes that he will be holding her back. There is the usual break up language that ends with something along the line of “we will find each other again”.
Twenty five years later, what are the odds that Shane will hear Rebecca’s voice and go searching for her on a fateful morning to see her children leaving her residence and then blindsiding her when she is already running late?
I loved how this story played out and while I am trying to avoid giving spoilers, I will say that someone’s mother got their comeuppance and there is very happily an HEA.
This was an ARC read and I want to thank Grey’s Promotions for the arc and for helping me find a new author!
These high school sweethearts make so many plans for the future, which include both of their prospective careers, children, and other dreams, only to have those destroyed when Shane mishears a conversation and decides to break up with Rebecca on graduation night because he believes that he will be holding her back. There is the usual break up language that ends with something along the line of “we will find each other again”.
Twenty five years later, what are the odds that Shane will hear Rebecca’s voice and go searching for her on a fateful morning to see her children leaving her residence and then blindsiding her when she is already running late?
I loved how this story played out and while I am trying to avoid giving spoilers, I will say that someone’s mother got their comeuppance and there is very happily an HEA.
This was an ARC read and I want to thank Grey’s Promotions for the arc and for helping me find a new author!
February 25, 2024
I'm a lover of a good second chance romance but this one didn't hit the spot. 😪 I personally am not a fan of a storyline that hops from past to present. I needed more groveling from the MMC part, the MFC gave in way to quickly especially when we find out another thing that pops up during the storyline that felt so anticlimactic, the MFC should have stood her ground more..
Some descriptions felt way to unnecessary idk I caught myself skim reading, sadly.
I hope I like book 2 as I signed up for the ARC before reading book 1.
Some descriptions felt way to unnecessary idk I caught myself skim reading, sadly.
I hope I like book 2 as I signed up for the ARC before reading book 1.
October 24, 2023
Wow. This book came outta no where and I LOVED it. It had everything I love. Second chance romance, ex-military (not focused on), not a dirtbag ex-husband, strong leading lady. I mean, it’s just chefs kiss all around. In all honesty, I stick to a few tried and true authors, low drama and high spice. This book delivers everything I love and now I NEED to read the next books in the series. I have a feeling we’ll be seeing more Shane and Becca in this too!
October 24, 2023
Wow. This book came outta no where and I LOVED it. It had everything I love. Second chance romance, ex-military (not focused on), not a dirtbag ex-husband, strong leading lady. I mean, it’s just chefs kiss all around. In all honesty, I stick to a few tried and true authors, low drama and high spice. This book delivers everything I love and now I NEED to read the next books in the series. I have a feeling we’ll be seeing more Shane and Becca in this too!
~Paige💜
~Paige💜
October 27, 2023
3.75-4⭐️ ARC review.
This book was so interesting and also so much more than what I thought. The premise is what really drew me in, as there is a 25 year gap between them first breaking up and getting back together 🤯. I’ve never read a second chance romance with that huge of a gap but this one really wasn’t bad!
what I liked was that the author took the time to resolve every issue in the book, and answer all questions. Because I had some QUESTIONS 🤣. When you read a second chance romance if the couple didn’t originally breakup due to cheating you know they broke up due to some other VERY stupid reason and that was the case for this book. The mom??? NO RIGHTS. SHE DESERVES NO RIGHTS IN THIS WORLD. Like that really threw me for a loop plus the other BIG plot twist threw me as well 😭😂 so yeah I did like the added twists.
but I also really liked the star-crossed lovers vibe. Like they were meant to be no matter what decade or year it is.
Overall this was a cute story, the MMC and FMC were super likeable and the story flowed really well. If you like second chance, you’ll enjoy this one and find yourself rooting for this couple!
This book was so interesting and also so much more than what I thought. The premise is what really drew me in, as there is a 25 year gap between them first breaking up and getting back together 🤯. I’ve never read a second chance romance with that huge of a gap but this one really wasn’t bad!
what I liked was that the author took the time to resolve every issue in the book, and answer all questions. Because I had some QUESTIONS 🤣. When you read a second chance romance if the couple didn’t originally breakup due to cheating you know they broke up due to some other VERY stupid reason and that was the case for this book. The mom??? NO RIGHTS. SHE DESERVES NO RIGHTS IN THIS WORLD. Like that really threw me for a loop plus the other BIG plot twist threw me as well 😭😂 so yeah I did like the added twists.
but I also really liked the star-crossed lovers vibe. Like they were meant to be no matter what decade or year it is.
Overall this was a cute story, the MMC and FMC were super likeable and the story flowed really well. If you like second chance, you’ll enjoy this one and find yourself rooting for this couple!
January 2, 2024
!! arc review !!
~Shane & Rebecca~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️
Tropes
~ Second chance romance (25 YEARS!!!)
~ High school sweethearts
~ Found family
~ Dual POV & Dual timelines
~ Pinning, pinning, and MORE pinning
“You will see me again, Becs. If only you knew how certain I am of that.”
Shane and Rebecca were the most picture perfect high school sweethearts who planned to stay together while she went to college/medical school and he went to the navy...until he randomly broke up with her the night of graduation. Shane immediately left town and Rebecca was left confused, heartbroken, and much much more. Fast forward 25 years, when Shane randomly drives past her house in the city she always dreamed of living in. Without even thinking, he is determined to win her back (because in his mind, she was always his). Will Rebecca be able to forgive him, even after both of their secrets are fully exposed about what happened during their time apart?
Going into this book, I honestly didn’t know too much about it other than it was a second chance (which is one of my faves) and I ate up EVERY second! I’ve never read a second chance where the characters were older, most tend to be in the 20/30s but I really enjoyed this change up. It just made the pinning that much better and felt more like a realistic love story. There were two pretty big surprises in this story and while I mostly expected both of them, they were written even better than I could have imagined. I almostttt wish that Rebecca was a little more guarded and made him grovel a little more, but that’s just because I’m petty ◡̈ I can see that there were hints for at least two more books and I just know they’re going to be just as good, if not better!
~Shane & Rebecca~
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
🌶️🌶️
Tropes
~ Second chance romance (25 YEARS!!!)
~ High school sweethearts
~ Found family
~ Dual POV & Dual timelines
~ Pinning, pinning, and MORE pinning
“You will see me again, Becs. If only you knew how certain I am of that.”
Shane and Rebecca were the most picture perfect high school sweethearts who planned to stay together while she went to college/medical school and he went to the navy...until he randomly broke up with her the night of graduation. Shane immediately left town and Rebecca was left confused, heartbroken, and much much more. Fast forward 25 years, when Shane randomly drives past her house in the city she always dreamed of living in. Without even thinking, he is determined to win her back (because in his mind, she was always his). Will Rebecca be able to forgive him, even after both of their secrets are fully exposed about what happened during their time apart?
Going into this book, I honestly didn’t know too much about it other than it was a second chance (which is one of my faves) and I ate up EVERY second! I’ve never read a second chance where the characters were older, most tend to be in the 20/30s but I really enjoyed this change up. It just made the pinning that much better and felt more like a realistic love story. There were two pretty big surprises in this story and while I mostly expected both of them, they were written even better than I could have imagined. I almostttt wish that Rebecca was a little more guarded and made him grovel a little more, but that’s just because I’m petty ◡̈ I can see that there were hints for at least two more books and I just know they’re going to be just as good, if not better!
November 7, 2023
✍️ 𝑨𝑹𝑪 𝑹𝑬𝑽𝑰𝑬𝑾 ✍️
“IF ONLY YOU KNEW” STEFANIE CASTRO ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
Bellissima scoperta quella di cui vi parlo oggi!
“If only you knew” è il romanzo di esordio di Stefanie Castro, che dopo essere stata per anni una book blogger come noi ha dato sfogo alla sua esperienza e fantasia e ha scritto questo bellissimo libro, uno di quelli che ti serve ogni tanto per guarire, per trovare conforto.
Becca e Shane erano fidanzati al liceo, per tutti gli anni di scuola sono stati un’unica cosa, avevano progetti per il futuro, matrimonio figli lavoro ecc.. finché Shane non decide di mettere fine a tutto la sera del diploma, senza una spiegazione e lasciando Becca completamente incredula e arrabbiata come non mai.
Non si rivedranno per 25 anni, fino a che una mattina passeggiando per le strade di New York Shane non posa lo sguardo sulla ragazzina, ormai diventata donna, che non ha mai dimenticato e che ha perseguitato tutte le sue notti e i suoi sogni.
Ma dopo 25 anni di acqua sotto i ponti ne è passata fin troppa, potrà mai tornare tutto come prima?
Non ho divorato questo libro in un giorno, anche se avrei potuto, perché è uno di quei libri che vorresti non finisse mai.
Nonostante sia l’esordio, Stefanie è riuscita a creare dei personaggi indimenticabili, è riuscita a esprimere delle emozioni che non mi aspettavo di provare.
E’ anche una cosa nuova per me: personaggi più grandi (hanno all’incirca 40 anni), un second chance con un gap di così tanti anni non lo avevo affrontato mai ancora e devo dire che è uno dei miei nuovi trope preferiti.
Ho percepito tutta la frustrazione di Becca quando è stata lasciata dall’uomo con cui pensava di passare il resto della vita, e ho provato lo sconforto di Shane a dover compiere una scelta del genere. I due sono anime gemelle, e la connessione è davvero forte.
E proprio quando pensavo di aver capito tutto di questo libro e fosse tutto scontato, è riuscito a stupirmi!
Non vedo l'ora di leggere i prossimi libri e vedere cosa Stefanie ha in serbo per noi!
“IF ONLY YOU KNEW” STEFANIE CASTRO ⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️.5/5 🌶️🌶️🌶️.5/5
Bellissima scoperta quella di cui vi parlo oggi!
“If only you knew” è il romanzo di esordio di Stefanie Castro, che dopo essere stata per anni una book blogger come noi ha dato sfogo alla sua esperienza e fantasia e ha scritto questo bellissimo libro, uno di quelli che ti serve ogni tanto per guarire, per trovare conforto.
Becca e Shane erano fidanzati al liceo, per tutti gli anni di scuola sono stati un’unica cosa, avevano progetti per il futuro, matrimonio figli lavoro ecc.. finché Shane non decide di mettere fine a tutto la sera del diploma, senza una spiegazione e lasciando Becca completamente incredula e arrabbiata come non mai.
Non si rivedranno per 25 anni, fino a che una mattina passeggiando per le strade di New York Shane non posa lo sguardo sulla ragazzina, ormai diventata donna, che non ha mai dimenticato e che ha perseguitato tutte le sue notti e i suoi sogni.
Ma dopo 25 anni di acqua sotto i ponti ne è passata fin troppa, potrà mai tornare tutto come prima?
Non ho divorato questo libro in un giorno, anche se avrei potuto, perché è uno di quei libri che vorresti non finisse mai.
Nonostante sia l’esordio, Stefanie è riuscita a creare dei personaggi indimenticabili, è riuscita a esprimere delle emozioni che non mi aspettavo di provare.
E’ anche una cosa nuova per me: personaggi più grandi (hanno all’incirca 40 anni), un second chance con un gap di così tanti anni non lo avevo affrontato mai ancora e devo dire che è uno dei miei nuovi trope preferiti.
Ho percepito tutta la frustrazione di Becca quando è stata lasciata dall’uomo con cui pensava di passare il resto della vita, e ho provato lo sconforto di Shane a dover compiere una scelta del genere. I due sono anime gemelle, e la connessione è davvero forte.
E proprio quando pensavo di aver capito tutto di questo libro e fosse tutto scontato, è riuscito a stupirmi!
Non vedo l'ora di leggere i prossimi libri e vedere cosa Stefanie ha in serbo per noi!
October 25, 2023
4.5/5
The soulmate connection is STRONG in this book. I thought this was such a cute and heartfelt story.
Becca & Shane meet when they’re 14 years old; from the start, they have a connection, which leads to them dating all throughout high school. Out of nowhere, Shane changes his mind and decides to break up with Becca. Nearly 30 years later, they are reunited & while the love is still there, it also comes with pain.
I love reading past/present povs, and the similarities to what is was then to how it is now. The author did a great job showcasing how incredibly strong Shane & Becca’s love is. I did think the second chance/reuniting aspect was a bit rushed but I loved it nonetheless. They are just so cute! What I loved most was when they reunited, they still felt and acted like teenagers in love.
The soulmate connection is STRONG in this book. I thought this was such a cute and heartfelt story.
Becca & Shane meet when they’re 14 years old; from the start, they have a connection, which leads to them dating all throughout high school. Out of nowhere, Shane changes his mind and decides to break up with Becca. Nearly 30 years later, they are reunited & while the love is still there, it also comes with pain.
I love reading past/present povs, and the similarities to what is was then to how it is now. The author did a great job showcasing how incredibly strong Shane & Becca’s love is. I did think the second chance/reuniting aspect was a bit rushed but I loved it nonetheless. They are just so cute! What I loved most was when they reunited, they still felt and acted like teenagers in love.
July 25, 2026
great story
This book started out a bit rough for me and I wasn’t liking the past and present chapters. I wanted to just read the present day ones. Once there was a plot twist, then I couldn’t put it down. It was a great story about loss and reconnection and trusting your gut. I loved Shane and Becs!!
This book started out a bit rough for me and I wasn’t liking the past and present chapters. I wanted to just read the present day ones. Once there was a plot twist, then I couldn’t put it down. It was a great story about loss and reconnection and trusting your gut. I loved Shane and Becs!!
July 19, 2026
Becca and Shane’s journey was beautiful, heartbreaking, frustrating, and so incredibly emotional. Watching two people who were each other’s whole world get torn apart, spend twenty-five years apart, and somehow find their way back together had me feeling every single emotion. My heart broke for Becca over and over again, and I won’t lie… Shane had a LOT to make up for. But seeing him finally understand everything he lost and everything he missed hit so hard.
I loved that this wasn’t your typical twenty-something romance. Having characters in their forties made their story feel even more meaningful. They’d lived entire lives, carried regrets, and still found hope that it wasn’t too late for forever. It was such a refreshing change.
There were so many moments that had me tearing up, smiling like an idiot, and desperately hoping they’d finally get the happy ending they both deserved. The emotions felt so real, and the chemistry between them never disappeared, even after all those years.
Stefanie Castro wrote such a heartfelt, emotional second chance romance that completely captured me from beginning to end. If you love soulmates, second chances, emotional reunions, forgiveness, and stories that make your heart ache before putting it back together, you need to read this one.
I absolutely loved it and will be thinking about Becca and Shane for a long time.
I loved that this wasn’t your typical twenty-something romance. Having characters in their forties made their story feel even more meaningful. They’d lived entire lives, carried regrets, and still found hope that it wasn’t too late for forever. It was such a refreshing change.
There were so many moments that had me tearing up, smiling like an idiot, and desperately hoping they’d finally get the happy ending they both deserved. The emotions felt so real, and the chemistry between them never disappeared, even after all those years.
Stefanie Castro wrote such a heartfelt, emotional second chance romance that completely captured me from beginning to end. If you love soulmates, second chances, emotional reunions, forgiveness, and stories that make your heart ache before putting it back together, you need to read this one.
I absolutely loved it and will be thinking about Becca and Shane for a long time.
November 4, 2023
What an incredible debut novel about first love and second chances. I couldn't put it down! Shane and Becca's story is so captivating, filled with heartbreak, anger, and sorrow, but ultimately it's a tale of redemption and the power of love.
After 25 long years of being apart, fate has finally brought Shane and Becca back together. It's clear from the start that they have a lot to talk about. So much has changed in their lives since high school, especially after that fateful day when Shane walked out of her life. Becca has achieved her dream of becoming a doctor and is now a mother as well. I must say, I greatly admire her amicable relationship with her ex-husband Hudson, despite the pain of his infidelity. They handle their parental responsibilities with maturity, something that many couples struggle with.
Shane, on the other hand, is naïve to think that Becca will welcome him back with open arms. After all, he shattered her life all those years ago without even looking back. But he's genuinely remorseful for his actions and proves his love for Becca time and time again. I found myself rooting for him, even as my heart wept for the pain he experienced when life threw him a curveball. There's a bittersweet moment that forever changes him, not to mention the deep betrayal from someone he thought he knew.
But despite all the hardships, if there are two people who are meant to be together, it's Shane and Becca. Their love is undeniable, and they have a connection that transcends time and distance. It's inspiring to see how they slowly repair the mistakes of the past, inching closer to a love that never truly disappeared.
As I read this novel, I couldn't help but be moved by the depth of emotion and the complexities of the characters. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys heartfelt stories of love and forgiveness. It's a beautiful journey that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you feeling happy. Whether you've experienced the pain of lost love or simply believe in the magic of second chances, this novel will resonate with you. So grab a copy, find a cozy spot, and prepare to be swept away by Shane and Becca's unforgettable story.
Thank you to Ms. Castro for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
After 25 long years of being apart, fate has finally brought Shane and Becca back together. It's clear from the start that they have a lot to talk about. So much has changed in their lives since high school, especially after that fateful day when Shane walked out of her life. Becca has achieved her dream of becoming a doctor and is now a mother as well. I must say, I greatly admire her amicable relationship with her ex-husband Hudson, despite the pain of his infidelity. They handle their parental responsibilities with maturity, something that many couples struggle with.
Shane, on the other hand, is naïve to think that Becca will welcome him back with open arms. After all, he shattered her life all those years ago without even looking back. But he's genuinely remorseful for his actions and proves his love for Becca time and time again. I found myself rooting for him, even as my heart wept for the pain he experienced when life threw him a curveball. There's a bittersweet moment that forever changes him, not to mention the deep betrayal from someone he thought he knew.
But despite all the hardships, if there are two people who are meant to be together, it's Shane and Becca. Their love is undeniable, and they have a connection that transcends time and distance. It's inspiring to see how they slowly repair the mistakes of the past, inching closer to a love that never truly disappeared.
As I read this novel, I couldn't help but be moved by the depth of emotion and the complexities of the characters. I highly recommend this book to anyone who enjoys heartfelt stories of love and forgiveness. It's a beautiful journey that will tug at your heartstrings and leave you feeling happy. Whether you've experienced the pain of lost love or simply believe in the magic of second chances, this novel will resonate with you. So grab a copy, find a cozy spot, and prepare to be swept away by Shane and Becca's unforgettable story.
Thank you to Ms. Castro for giving me the opportunity to read this book with no expectation of a positive review.
December 7, 2023
Favorite Quote:
“She is my beginning and my end, and I have no idea what I was doing on this earth before she entered my life.”
Thoughts:
This book was so freaking GOOD. Like, I expected it to be good already but it somehow STILL exceeded by expectations.
We have Shane and Rebecca (Becs) and this is a dual POV second-chance romance that switches back and forth from the past to the present from both POV’s.
The EMOTIONS, baby listen. This was an emotional ride but it all tied together so beautifully in the end. The flow was amazing. All of it. Stefanie did her big one with this book 10000% and I cannot wait to read the next ones in the series. (Stefanie, I HAVE to arc read those two for you ok its very necessary I do lol)
Oh and let’s not forget to mention the absolute HEAT Stefanie put on the playlist for this book. As a 90s baby with an 80s baby mama I WAS SO HAPPY TO FINALLY SEE A PLAYLIST WITH MY KIND OF MUSIC ON IT IN A BOOK. Stefanie has exquisite taste 🥹
If you like romances, especially second chance with an HEA and beautiful story line, please give this one a shot, this one was very near and dear to my heart due to some relatability and might just be one of my top 10 favorite romance novels yet.
“She is my beginning and my end, and I have no idea what I was doing on this earth before she entered my life.”
Thoughts:
This book was so freaking GOOD. Like, I expected it to be good already but it somehow STILL exceeded by expectations.
We have Shane and Rebecca (Becs) and this is a dual POV second-chance romance that switches back and forth from the past to the present from both POV’s.
The EMOTIONS, baby listen. This was an emotional ride but it all tied together so beautifully in the end. The flow was amazing. All of it. Stefanie did her big one with this book 10000% and I cannot wait to read the next ones in the series. (Stefanie, I HAVE to arc read those two for you ok its very necessary I do lol)
Oh and let’s not forget to mention the absolute HEAT Stefanie put on the playlist for this book. As a 90s baby with an 80s baby mama I WAS SO HAPPY TO FINALLY SEE A PLAYLIST WITH MY KIND OF MUSIC ON IT IN A BOOK. Stefanie has exquisite taste 🥹
If you like romances, especially second chance with an HEA and beautiful story line, please give this one a shot, this one was very near and dear to my heart due to some relatability and might just be one of my top 10 favorite romance novels yet.
July 12, 2026
If Only You Knew was an emotional and heartfelt second-chance romance that reminded me it’s never too late for love. I really enjoyed that this story centered on two people in their forties finding their way back to each other after spending decades apart. It felt refreshing to read a romance that explored love after so much life had happened.
Becca's heartbreak felt genuine, and I completely understood why she struggled to let Shane back into her life after everything they had been through. Watching them slowly revisit the past, confront old wounds, and figure out whether they could build something new together made for an engaging emotional journey.
I also appreciated that the story focused on forgiveness as much as romance. It wasn't just about rekindling old feelings, but about acknowledging the years they had lost and deciding whether they were willing to move forward despite them. The mature characters and emotional conversations gave the story a depth that I really enjoyed.
Overall, If Only You Knew is a touching second-chance romance about first loves, missed opportunities, and discovering that some connections never truly fade. If you enjoy emotional love stories with mature characters and plenty of heart, this is one worth picking up
Becca's heartbreak felt genuine, and I completely understood why she struggled to let Shane back into her life after everything they had been through. Watching them slowly revisit the past, confront old wounds, and figure out whether they could build something new together made for an engaging emotional journey.
I also appreciated that the story focused on forgiveness as much as romance. It wasn't just about rekindling old feelings, but about acknowledging the years they had lost and deciding whether they were willing to move forward despite them. The mature characters and emotional conversations gave the story a depth that I really enjoyed.
Overall, If Only You Knew is a touching second-chance romance about first loves, missed opportunities, and discovering that some connections never truly fade. If you enjoy emotional love stories with mature characters and plenty of heart, this is one worth picking up
July 29, 2026
A second chance romance with so much time that’s gone by was new for me. 25 years apart! MCs in their 40s! Lives lived! I ate this right up!
Shane and Becca were planning to be together forever after high school. But then Shane shatters Becca’s heart on graduation night when he unexpectedly breaks up with her, and they don’t see each other or speak for 2.5 decades(!!)… until Shane happens to see Becca randomly on the street and knows he needs her back in his life. I kind of loved how that played out. It felt fateful and actually I loved Shane throughout the whole book.
I really love any story where you get time jumps mixed in with the chapters and this one does that to show high school and present day. The author did a good job of keeping you on your toes with what actually happened, watching their love the first time, and then seeing how they progressed as adults and what could happen for them now. There was a lot for the two of them to work through and the tension was so good. I wanted Shane to work a bit harder for it - who doesn’t love a groveling man?? - but again I loved his character, so just like Becca, all was eventually forgiven! Looking forward to continuing this series.
Thank you TAA for the ARC!
Shane and Becca were planning to be together forever after high school. But then Shane shatters Becca’s heart on graduation night when he unexpectedly breaks up with her, and they don’t see each other or speak for 2.5 decades(!!)… until Shane happens to see Becca randomly on the street and knows he needs her back in his life. I kind of loved how that played out. It felt fateful and actually I loved Shane throughout the whole book.
I really love any story where you get time jumps mixed in with the chapters and this one does that to show high school and present day. The author did a good job of keeping you on your toes with what actually happened, watching their love the first time, and then seeing how they progressed as adults and what could happen for them now. There was a lot for the two of them to work through and the tension was so good. I wanted Shane to work a bit harder for it - who doesn’t love a groveling man?? - but again I loved his character, so just like Becca, all was eventually forgiven! Looking forward to continuing this series.
Thank you TAA for the ARC!
November 10, 2023
This is such a wonderful debit novel. The love that Shane and Becca have is so strong and was never in doubt. After reading about their whole relationship in high school knowing he broke up with her was so hard. I think the author did a wonderful job of answering all the questions of why he left and what he had been doing. I figured out that they had a kid together from the description because I love a secret baby and can spot it from a mile away. The letter that was written was wild though, I did not expect that. I just loved seeing Shane prove his love to Becca and seeing her become her full self again. My only thing is that I wish we could have seen him interact with her kids but I feel like we'll see that in the other books since they will probably be married by then.
I received an arc through grey's promotion.
I received an arc through grey's promotion.
July 23, 2026
This is the first in a new series, and this is Shane and Becca’s journey.
Shane and Becca were high school sweetheart, who were destined to be soulmates, until he broke her heart at graduation. Becca struggled to move on with her life, but now 25 years later, she is a divorced mom, a doctor, and has an amicable relationship with her ex-husband despite his infidelities. When Shane arrives on Becca’s doorstep wanting to rekindle their relationship, how will Becca react?
This is a well written story which is an emotional roller coaster, with drama, heartbreak, betrayal, family, friendships, miscommunication, anger, sorrow, regrets, revelations, redemption, second chances, romance, and love, which leads to an entertaining and steamy addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
Shane and Becca were high school sweetheart, who were destined to be soulmates, until he broke her heart at graduation. Becca struggled to move on with her life, but now 25 years later, she is a divorced mom, a doctor, and has an amicable relationship with her ex-husband despite his infidelities. When Shane arrives on Becca’s doorstep wanting to rekindle their relationship, how will Becca react?
This is a well written story which is an emotional roller coaster, with drama, heartbreak, betrayal, family, friendships, miscommunication, anger, sorrow, regrets, revelations, redemption, second chances, romance, and love, which leads to an entertaining and steamy addictive page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this talented author whose work I highly recommend.
December 5, 2023
I really enjoyed this one. It was bittersweet to see all they missed when they were apart for 25 years, but their time reconnecting was so warm and romantic, it made up for lost time.
There was a surprise, a little more than halfway through, that I didn't see coming, but it was a nice addition to the story.
I love the second chance trope and the main characters are in their 40s, which you don't see a lot in romance novels, but I enjoyed it.
I would continue this series! I am excited to read Ellie's story and Grant and Laney's story.
I thought this story had a good mix of spice and story. I didn't think either one overpowered the other.
I enjoyed this book and would recommend.
There was a surprise, a little more than halfway through, that I didn't see coming, but it was a nice addition to the story.
I love the second chance trope and the main characters are in their 40s, which you don't see a lot in romance novels, but I enjoyed it.
I would continue this series! I am excited to read Ellie's story and Grant and Laney's story.
I thought this story had a good mix of spice and story. I didn't think either one overpowered the other.
I enjoyed this book and would recommend.
December 19, 2023
Shane and Becca are teenage sweethearts who have the world at their feet, until Shane makes a devastating decision that turns their world upside down.
We fast forward to their adult lives where a chance encounter brings them face-to-face. Shane tries to prove his undying love for Becca but her heartache feels insurmountable. Slowly the author reveals misunderstandings that occurred and twists that were totally unexpected.
A true love story through the ages, equally heartbreaking and heartwarming.
The only reason I gave it a four star rating was the extra hot spice.
We fast forward to their adult lives where a chance encounter brings them face-to-face. Shane tries to prove his undying love for Becca but her heartache feels insurmountable. Slowly the author reveals misunderstandings that occurred and twists that were totally unexpected.
A true love story through the ages, equally heartbreaking and heartwarming.
The only reason I gave it a four star rating was the extra hot spice.
February 24, 2024
If Only I Knew. .
.... how much this story was gonna break me!!!
This is a second chance, high school sweethearts, miscommunication romance.
I dont know how to truly tell you about this book without truly giving it away, so I'll just tell you what I loved about it.
I loved Olive and how receptive and forgiving she is.
I loved that Becca still had a life and didn't really let the past ruin her.
I loved that when they reunited, everyone can see how much better off they are together.
I hate his mother.
I hate his graduation day decision, but there wouldn't be a story without it, but UGH.
.... how much this story was gonna break me!!!
This is a second chance, high school sweethearts, miscommunication romance.
I dont know how to truly tell you about this book without truly giving it away, so I'll just tell you what I loved about it.
I loved Olive and how receptive and forgiving she is.
I loved that Becca still had a life and didn't really let the past ruin her.
I loved that when they reunited, everyone can see how much better off they are together.
I hate his mother.
I hate his graduation day decision, but there wouldn't be a story without it, but UGH.
March 4, 2024
Stefani Castro’s “If Only You Knew” was well-titled. When Shane and Becca met in high school, they knew they were it for each other. Of course, they had plans after high school. Shane would pursue going to the Navy and Becca with medical school. But when unfortunate circumstances occur that detrimentally separate the two, their lives are forever impacted until 20 years later when they run into each other.
My poor heart can only handle so much angst, and “If Only You Knew” had just the right amount. Shane’s mom was a piece of work that I thought never quite got the resolution I was looking for, but overall, I did enjoy the story.
My poor heart can only handle so much angst, and “If Only You Knew” had just the right amount. Shane’s mom was a piece of work that I thought never quite got the resolution I was looking for, but overall, I did enjoy the story.
November 7, 2023
A beautiful story ♥️
I absolutely loved reading If Only You Knew! This book was beautifully written that at times I was in tears! I'm still reeling from reading Becca and Shane's story!
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Happily Ever After
Original
Page-turnerk
Romantic
Steamy
Tear-jerker
Inspirational
Great world building
Wonderful characters
I absolutely loved reading If Only You Knew! This book was beautifully written that at times I was in tears! I'm still reeling from reading Becca and Shane's story!
Reasons I enjoyed this book:
Happily Ever After
Original
Page-turnerk
Romantic
Steamy
Tear-jerker
Inspirational
Great world building
Wonderful characters
November 10, 2023
Yes! Yes! Yes! Read now. Second chance romance. Strong female main character. Smart & lovable (plus sexy) male main character. The plot twists. The heartbreak. The found (again) love. This is everything. The family & friends in this book are so relatable and the entire story feels REAL. I cannot wait for the next in the series!
November 26, 2023
2.5 stars. The playlist for this book is 90’s fire and I loved it. However, the rest of the book was a bit too cheesy for me. I did enjoy the chemistry and spice between Shane and Rebecca, but the writing felt really formal and I couldn’t really get into the story. I did really like the HEA. *I received an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
January 21, 2024
It’s giving The Notebook and i am loving the nostalgia. This is such a heartbreak and put you back together kinda book. I loved Shane and Becca’s story, reliving their high school romance and watching them figure out the past together was amazing. Knowing how much they loved each other makes the ending so much more. Stefanie did her thing on this book and I cannot wait to read more!!
May 25, 2024
Worth the read!
⭐️: 4/5
First, second chance is not my favorite trope…
Second, I really don’t like flask back chapters…
That being said I really enjoyed this book. The
chapters went back and forth between past and present and I actually really enjoyed past both. I loved their relationship as teens. Their banter and Shane’s cocky attitude. It was a very interesting second chance being 25 years apart. I loved that Shane and Becca got their HAE. I only felt that Becca gave in a bit too easy to Shane once reunited, but to each their own! Looking forward to reading the next book!
⭐️: 4/5
First, second chance is not my favorite trope…
Second, I really don’t like flask back chapters…
That being said I really enjoyed this book. The
chapters went back and forth between past and present and I actually really enjoyed past both. I loved their relationship as teens. Their banter and Shane’s cocky attitude. It was a very interesting second chance being 25 years apart. I loved that Shane and Becca got their HAE. I only felt that Becca gave in a bit too easy to Shane once reunited, but to each their own! Looking forward to reading the next book!
May 29, 2024
This was the first book I read by Stefanie Castro. This book had me feeling a bunch of emotions. It follows the story of Becca Stanley and Shane Phillips. They are high school sweethearts and each other’s first loves. They thought they would be together for life. When life has other plans they go separate ways. Now years later they reconnect. Will they be able to overcome their pasts? If only you knew the things you missed out on, how would their lives be different? You must read this great story to find out!! ❤️ I took away one star, because I personally didn’t like it went from past to present so much between characters.
Book rating: 4/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating: 1/5🌶️
Book rating: 4/5⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Spice rating: 1/5🌶️
July 14, 2026
What a roller coaster ride of emotions!
If Only You Knew was the perfect emotional read! Hurt, heartbreak, betrayal, but what stands out the most is LOVE! The family and friends that show up for Becca are what you dream of having in your life.
Then you have Shane. You want to dislike him so bad for being “delusional”, except the way he fights for Becca and seems so in the dark makes you fall for him anyway. Add in his response to finding out his biggest secret and you will be swooning and crying.
If you’re looking for a heart-wrenchingly beautiful book, you must read this one!
If Only You Knew was the perfect emotional read! Hurt, heartbreak, betrayal, but what stands out the most is LOVE! The family and friends that show up for Becca are what you dream of having in your life.
Then you have Shane. You want to dislike him so bad for being “delusional”, except the way he fights for Becca and seems so in the dark makes you fall for him anyway. Add in his response to finding out his biggest secret and you will be swooning and crying.
If you’re looking for a heart-wrenchingly beautiful book, you must read this one!
March 5, 2024
This is probably the best book I have read in years. Unlike most second chance books this is a duel timeline which made it so much better. Shane and Rebeccas story is so heartbreakingly beautiful. The chemistry was great and it was well written
March 10, 2024
WoW!!!!
Stefanie Castro is new to me. I read the synopsis and was instantly intrigued. I don’t come across too many later in life stories. It’s great to find something in my age range. So I 1-clicked so fast, and it was worth it. This story held me hook, line, and sinker.
I know Becca and Shane’s story is a work of fiction, but it certainly can and probably has happened. I’d hate to give away any spoilers, but if you want to read an emotional story with a HEA this is it!!! 1-click don’t wait!!!!
Stefanie Castro is new to me. I read the synopsis and was instantly intrigued. I don’t come across too many later in life stories. It’s great to find something in my age range. So I 1-clicked so fast, and it was worth it. This story held me hook, line, and sinker.
I know Becca and Shane’s story is a work of fiction, but it certainly can and probably has happened. I’d hate to give away any spoilers, but if you want to read an emotional story with a HEA this is it!!! 1-click don’t wait!!!!
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