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No One Will Know
How far would you go if no one was watching?
I was eleven years old when violence shattered my world. The life I knew ended there.
For years, my family and I existed in a world of salt, sand, and survival. We built shelters, weathered storms that should have destroyed us, and buried the ones we couldn’t save.
One by one, I lost them all.
Until only Dane remained.
My protector.
My entire world.
A boundary I was destined to cross.
Fourteen years later, we were rescued.
The world called it a miracle, but the island had already remade us long before anyone came to bring us home.
Our rescue captures the world’s attention, and strangers become obsessed with our story. Cameras follow us wherever we go. Detectives ask questions no one should ever have to answer.
The more people look at us, the more convinced they become that there’s something wrong with the bond that carried us through fourteen years of isolation.
Maybe they’re right.
Because after everything we survived together, I don’t know where I end and Dane begins.
I was eleven years old when violence shattered my world. The life I knew ended there.
For years, my family and I existed in a world of salt, sand, and survival. We built shelters, weathered storms that should have destroyed us, and buried the ones we couldn’t save.
One by one, I lost them all.
Until only Dane remained.
My protector.
My entire world.
A boundary I was destined to cross.
Fourteen years later, we were rescued.
The world called it a miracle, but the island had already remade us long before anyone came to bring us home.
Our rescue captures the world’s attention, and strangers become obsessed with our story. Cameras follow us wherever we go. Detectives ask questions no one should ever have to answer.
The more people look at us, the more convinced they become that there’s something wrong with the bond that carried us through fourteen years of isolation.
Maybe they’re right.
Because after everything we survived together, I don’t know where I end and Dane begins.
523 pages, Kindle Edition
Published July 16, 2026
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 37 reviews
August 7, 2026
ARC provided by Xpresso Book Tours and NetGalley
I give this book a 4.25 ⭐️
This was a surprisingly intense forbidden romance. The story centers around two people whose lives become deeply intertwined after being thrown into a situation where they have to depend on each other to survive. Years of isolation shape their relationship in ways that make returning to normal life anything but simple.
I really liked the survival aspect of the story and how it carried over into the characters’ lives afterward. There’s plenty of tension, secrets, emotional baggage, and a romance that definitely isn’t straightforward.
This book kept me interested because I wanted to see how they would handle everything that had happened to them and what would happen once the outside world started closing in.
A few parts slowed down for me, keeping it from a full five stars, but overall I thought it was an original and emotional story with a relationship that definitely stands out.
I give this book a 4.25 ⭐️
This was a surprisingly intense forbidden romance. The story centers around two people whose lives become deeply intertwined after being thrown into a situation where they have to depend on each other to survive. Years of isolation shape their relationship in ways that make returning to normal life anything but simple.
I really liked the survival aspect of the story and how it carried over into the characters’ lives afterward. There’s plenty of tension, secrets, emotional baggage, and a romance that definitely isn’t straightforward.
This book kept me interested because I wanted to see how they would handle everything that had happened to them and what would happen once the outside world started closing in.
A few parts slowed down for me, keeping it from a full five stars, but overall I thought it was an original and emotional story with a relationship that definitely stands out.
August 11, 2026
2.75 ⭐
I'm not sure what to really think of this book. I picked it up because I love a good forbidden romance book and this one had an interesting premise. This was not as dark as I thought it would be.
I just had issues with the whole plot: the cause of the accident was underwhelming and I was surprised that it was so quickly forgotten. I mean, it wasn't a simple accident, so why are the MCs notre thinking about it or trying to understand it? No investigations about it when they return either? That was odd.
Instead what did we get? A lot of spice. Like, a lot. Most of it is unnecessary.
It was not that bad. But it didn't work for me.
Thanks to Netgalley, Xpresso Book Tours and Rebel Rose for the free copy.
I'm not sure what to really think of this book. I picked it up because I love a good forbidden romance book and this one had an interesting premise. This was not as dark as I thought it would be.
I just had issues with the whole plot: the cause of the accident was underwhelming and I was surprised that it was so quickly forgotten. I mean, it wasn't a simple accident, so why are the MCs notre thinking about it or trying to understand it? No investigations about it when they return either? That was odd.
Instead what did we get? A lot of spice. Like, a lot. Most of it is unnecessary.
It was not that bad. But it didn't work for me.
Thanks to Netgalley, Xpresso Book Tours and Rebel Rose for the free copy.
Want to Read
July 15, 2026Still Beating on crack
Review of advance copy
I am a sucker for a good shipwreck romance. That’s what initially interested me about this book. The “forbidden” nature of the romance wasn’t really a draw. I’m not a big fan of the trope typically. But I have to say, putting it in the hands of the right author can make me reconsider.
And reconsider is absolutely what I had to do after reading this one. Rebel Rose has written an engaging, character-driven story about two people destined to be together, regardless of what anyone else thinks.
The book starts off with twelve year old Dane, a boy caught between his parents, who have recently gone through an acrimonious divorce. He’s angry and petulant and absolutely does not want to spend even one moment with his father’s new “family”, let alone go on a two week yachting trip with them. And he holds a special disdain for his new step-sister, Charlotte.
From that small bit of backstory we meet now twenty years old Dane and nineteen year old Charlotte. They are the only two left after their yacht was attacked and they became stranded on a small, uninhabited island. They’ve been there for eight years, and the acrimony Dane felt toward Charlotte all those years ago has become something much different.
The book follows the couple as they navigate their world on the island, then are finally rescued and must reconcile the life they led alone with the world they find waiting for them.
Was everything about this book believable? No. The author took some liberties, to be sure. I’m not positive that two kids would have the emotional maturity that Charlotte and Dane did. But that, and other small issues, were easily brushed aside for the deeply emotional and devotional nature of their relationship. These two go through so many struggles and losses, and still choose one another over and over.
These two “forbidden” aspect of the relationship is something I’ll leave to other readers to discover on their own. I had my suspicions about it, and they turned out to be true. But the essence of the relationship wasn’t what they were to one another biologically, but rather what they chose to be to one another, a choice neither could deny.
I also really appreciated that there was no third act breakup. The author created two characters who were entirely devoted to one another, and she knew there was no way they could ever part and didn’t try to manufacture something. It helped give their relationship even more weight.
I would be remiss, I think, if I didn’t mention the absolutely incredible intimate scenes between Charlotte and Dane. Not because they were spicy, though they definitely were. What resonated for me was how passionate and in tune they were with one another. They communicated, were honest and open with one another. And that flowed through to their everyday life, as well. As I said earlier, I’m not sure two young children would develop such a healthy ability to communicate, but it sure made the romance all the more swoon-worthy for it.
This was my first book by Rebel Rose, but it will most definitely not be my last. I was drawn in from the very beginning and enjoined every word of this story. It was dramatic, passionate, intense, spicy and more than I hoped for. I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
And reconsider is absolutely what I had to do after reading this one. Rebel Rose has written an engaging, character-driven story about two people destined to be together, regardless of what anyone else thinks.
The book starts off with twelve year old Dane, a boy caught between his parents, who have recently gone through an acrimonious divorce. He’s angry and petulant and absolutely does not want to spend even one moment with his father’s new “family”, let alone go on a two week yachting trip with them. And he holds a special disdain for his new step-sister, Charlotte.
From that small bit of backstory we meet now twenty years old Dane and nineteen year old Charlotte. They are the only two left after their yacht was attacked and they became stranded on a small, uninhabited island. They’ve been there for eight years, and the acrimony Dane felt toward Charlotte all those years ago has become something much different.
The book follows the couple as they navigate their world on the island, then are finally rescued and must reconcile the life they led alone with the world they find waiting for them.
Was everything about this book believable? No. The author took some liberties, to be sure. I’m not positive that two kids would have the emotional maturity that Charlotte and Dane did. But that, and other small issues, were easily brushed aside for the deeply emotional and devotional nature of their relationship. These two go through so many struggles and losses, and still choose one another over and over.
These two “forbidden” aspect of the relationship is something I’ll leave to other readers to discover on their own. I had my suspicions about it, and they turned out to be true. But the essence of the relationship wasn’t what they were to one another biologically, but rather what they chose to be to one another, a choice neither could deny.
I also really appreciated that there was no third act breakup. The author created two characters who were entirely devoted to one another, and she knew there was no way they could ever part and didn’t try to manufacture something. It helped give their relationship even more weight.
I would be remiss, I think, if I didn’t mention the absolutely incredible intimate scenes between Charlotte and Dane. Not because they were spicy, though they definitely were. What resonated for me was how passionate and in tune they were with one another. They communicated, were honest and open with one another. And that flowed through to their everyday life, as well. As I said earlier, I’m not sure two young children would develop such a healthy ability to communicate, but it sure made the romance all the more swoon-worthy for it.
This was my first book by Rebel Rose, but it will most definitely not be my last. I was drawn in from the very beginning and enjoined every word of this story. It was dramatic, passionate, intense, spicy and more than I hoped for. I highly recommend it.
I received a free copy of this book and am voluntarily leaving a review.
August 20, 2026
I read this while it was vacation in the middle of a hurricane on Maui, so I made it a little extra fun.
A well off Australian Dad purchases this big, super yacht with the intention of exploring a remote chain of islands on a long holiday with his family. There’s kind of a Brady bunch thing going on where the Dad has kids and the Mom has kids and they’re newly married trying to create new memories for their blended family. Because of the ages of the kids there’s a little animosity between them with the whole “you aren’t my mom/ sister/ brother” bit.
Not long into a vacation, the kids are below deck when they hear a lot of commotion and fighting upstairs followed by gunshots on deck. Some of the younger siblings hide, and after the noise dies down, the oldest teenage son goes upstairs to discover both parents murdered as well as the ship staff. It looks like some sort of pirate raid gone wrong and instead of stealing the ship, they rip out all the radio and electronic devices, ultimately leaving these kids stranded together on an island with no adults. One of the little brothers is diabetic so he unfortunately doesn’t last long once the insulin runs out. Another brother makes it about eight years when he becomes injured and it gets infected and he passes away.
The story begins when it’s down to two step siblings. A man who when the story starts at age 20 and the sister who’s about 19. They have been stuck on this island together since they were about 11 and they don’t particularly get along, but they need each other for survival and after all these years on the island together, they have their chores down to an art. After the sister is bitten by a state snake and she almost dies it changes their relationship forever. Every day on the island could be their last, and they very may never get off the island at all. They began to appreciate each other, which turns into a friendship which turns into romance. There’s definitely a very “blue lagoon” thing going on here. And yes, they’re supposed to be step-siblings so it’s a little ancestral, but it’s not like they have many options. Pretty spicy!
I kind of wish they would’ve touched on the pirate raid a little more. It’s pretty buried in the story and I thought that it was pretty interesting. A fun smutty vacay read.
A well off Australian Dad purchases this big, super yacht with the intention of exploring a remote chain of islands on a long holiday with his family. There’s kind of a Brady bunch thing going on where the Dad has kids and the Mom has kids and they’re newly married trying to create new memories for their blended family. Because of the ages of the kids there’s a little animosity between them with the whole “you aren’t my mom/ sister/ brother” bit.
Not long into a vacation, the kids are below deck when they hear a lot of commotion and fighting upstairs followed by gunshots on deck. Some of the younger siblings hide, and after the noise dies down, the oldest teenage son goes upstairs to discover both parents murdered as well as the ship staff. It looks like some sort of pirate raid gone wrong and instead of stealing the ship, they rip out all the radio and electronic devices, ultimately leaving these kids stranded together on an island with no adults. One of the little brothers is diabetic so he unfortunately doesn’t last long once the insulin runs out. Another brother makes it about eight years when he becomes injured and it gets infected and he passes away.
The story begins when it’s down to two step siblings. A man who when the story starts at age 20 and the sister who’s about 19. They have been stuck on this island together since they were about 11 and they don’t particularly get along, but they need each other for survival and after all these years on the island together, they have their chores down to an art. After the sister is bitten by a state snake and she almost dies it changes their relationship forever. Every day on the island could be their last, and they very may never get off the island at all. They began to appreciate each other, which turns into a friendship which turns into romance. There’s definitely a very “blue lagoon” thing going on here. And yes, they’re supposed to be step-siblings so it’s a little ancestral, but it’s not like they have many options. Pretty spicy!
I kind of wish they would’ve touched on the pirate raid a little more. It’s pretty buried in the story and I thought that it was pretty interesting. A fun smutty vacay read.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 22, 2026
This book had me saying..."I know exactly where this is going."
The book: "That's cute."
Because EVERY time I thought I'd figured it out... It completely changed the game.
Charlotte and Dane survive the unthinkable. Stranded on a deserted island as children... they lose everything. & Everyone.
Until the only person they have left... is each other.
And that raises questions I honestly wasn't prepared to wrestle with.
This isn't just a romance.
It's a story about survival.
Trauma.
Healing.
Identity.
And what happens when the world you've created to survive collides with the one you left behind.
The emotional weight of this story completely surprised me.
Watching Charlotte and Dane try to adjust after being rescued was just as compelling as everything that happened on the island.
Because surviving... And learning how to live again... Are two very different things.
Now... there were a couple things that didn't work quite as well for me.
I wish we'd spent a little more time watching their feelings evolve before the romance really took off. & I wasn't completely sold on the timing of one of the major reveals.
But honestly.... neither of those things stopped me from turning the pages.
Because I HAD to know how this story ended.
Also...
Can we please retire the unnecessary third-act breakup????
This book reminded me that you can create emotional tension without forcing one... & I appreciated that so much.
This is one of those books that's impossible to explain without making it sound absolutely unhinged...But .. it still works...
And it kept me guessing until the very end.
Mood: Pick this up when you're craving a survival story that's emotionally messy, morally complicated, impossible to stop thinking about, and guaranteed to leave you wanting to talk about it the second you finish.
Thank you to Netgalley and Xpresso Book Tours for the gifted eARC. All opinions are my own.
Confession: I didn't just finish this book... now I have about twelve moral dilemmas and no easy answers.
The book: "That's cute."
Because EVERY time I thought I'd figured it out... It completely changed the game.
Charlotte and Dane survive the unthinkable. Stranded on a deserted island as children... they lose everything. & Everyone.
Until the only person they have left... is each other.
And that raises questions I honestly wasn't prepared to wrestle with.
This isn't just a romance.
It's a story about survival.
Trauma.
Healing.
Identity.
And what happens when the world you've created to survive collides with the one you left behind.
The emotional weight of this story completely surprised me.
Watching Charlotte and Dane try to adjust after being rescued was just as compelling as everything that happened on the island.
Because surviving... And learning how to live again... Are two very different things.
Now... there were a couple things that didn't work quite as well for me.
I wish we'd spent a little more time watching their feelings evolve before the romance really took off. & I wasn't completely sold on the timing of one of the major reveals.
But honestly.... neither of those things stopped me from turning the pages.
Because I HAD to know how this story ended.
Also...
Can we please retire the unnecessary third-act breakup????
This book reminded me that you can create emotional tension without forcing one... & I appreciated that so much.
This is one of those books that's impossible to explain without making it sound absolutely unhinged...But .. it still works...
And it kept me guessing until the very end.
Mood: Pick this up when you're craving a survival story that's emotionally messy, morally complicated, impossible to stop thinking about, and guaranteed to leave you wanting to talk about it the second you finish.
Thank you to Netgalley and Xpresso Book Tours for the gifted eARC. All opinions are my own.
Confession: I didn't just finish this book... now I have about twelve moral dilemmas and no easy answers.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
⭐️⭐️⭐️⭐️
Whoa! Just when I thought I had this plot figured out, Rebel Rose managed to surprise me and keep me on my toes right until the end. No One Will Know is a tragic love story about survival, trauma, healing, and a forbidden romance that may not be exactly what it seems. Charlotte and Dane had me feeling every emotion.
After being stranded on a deserted island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean for years, Charlotte and Dane believe they are the only family they have left. As step-siblings with hidden secrets about their true origins, they slowly fall into a forbidden romance. But what happens when they're finally rescued and forced to face the real world again?
I loved the premise and thought the overall story was incredibly compelling. However, I wasn't convinced the timeline worked in the story's favour. Revealing how they ended up on the island near the end didn't feel like it added any major twist or emotional impact compared to telling it earlier. I also would have loved to see more development of Charlotte and Dane's relationship before their romantic feelings surfaced. Considering they had spent years together, it felt like a switch was suddenly flipped rather than their feelings evolving naturally.
That said, once their relationship developed, it was sweet, supportive, passionate, and genuinely beautiful to read. I also appreciated how the story explored their return to society and the challenges of adjusting to a world that had completely changed while they were gone. Those moments added another emotional layer to an already heartbreaking story.
If you love:
🚫💕 Forbidden romance
🏝️ Stranded on a deserted island
🌊 Survival romance
🤝 Forced proximity
🛡️ Protective hero
❤️🩹 Trauma and healing
🌎💞 "Us against the world" vibes
🌅 Second chance at life
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Xpresso Book Tours for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
Whoa! Just when I thought I had this plot figured out, Rebel Rose managed to surprise me and keep me on my toes right until the end. No One Will Know is a tragic love story about survival, trauma, healing, and a forbidden romance that may not be exactly what it seems. Charlotte and Dane had me feeling every emotion.
After being stranded on a deserted island in the middle of the Pacific Ocean for years, Charlotte and Dane believe they are the only family they have left. As step-siblings with hidden secrets about their true origins, they slowly fall into a forbidden romance. But what happens when they're finally rescued and forced to face the real world again?
I loved the premise and thought the overall story was incredibly compelling. However, I wasn't convinced the timeline worked in the story's favour. Revealing how they ended up on the island near the end didn't feel like it added any major twist or emotional impact compared to telling it earlier. I also would have loved to see more development of Charlotte and Dane's relationship before their romantic feelings surfaced. Considering they had spent years together, it felt like a switch was suddenly flipped rather than their feelings evolving naturally.
That said, once their relationship developed, it was sweet, supportive, passionate, and genuinely beautiful to read. I also appreciated how the story explored their return to society and the challenges of adjusting to a world that had completely changed while they were gone. Those moments added another emotional layer to an already heartbreaking story.
If you love:
🚫💕 Forbidden romance
🏝️ Stranded on a deserted island
🌊 Survival romance
🤝 Forced proximity
🛡️ Protective hero
❤️🩹 Trauma and healing
🌎💞 "Us against the world" vibes
🌅 Second chance at life
A huge thank you to NetGalley and Xpresso Book Tours for providing me with an ARC in exchange for my honest review.
July 16, 2026
Thank you to NetGalley and Xpresso Book Tours for the opportunity to read this arc.
This was very Blue Lagoon coded and I was just expecting more. The plot seemed a bit unfinished and was more filler than anything. I would have loved to experience the dynamic of Charlotte and Dane pre-crash. Their relationship seemed rushed and there was absolutely zero build up between them. One or two chapters of the family when they initially landed could have changed the dynamic for me.
I wasn’t a fan of the writing style as I didn’t connect with the characters before and after the crash. I know we are to suspend belief when reading fiction but I just can’t fathom that neither Charlotte or Dane needed therapy for what they experienced on the island. We, as the reader don’t even really know what they experienced because we didn’t get to read about it. Sure, we got a few snippets here and there but I cant believe an eleven and twelve year old (along with their older brother, I don’t recall his age) survived that long on the island. They mentioned there was a crew on the yacht but NO ONE from that crew survived? The reasoning for the ‘crash’ honestly seemed like a rushed plot point as well. As an avid DR romance fan, this was lacking for me.
I’m giving 2.5 ⭐️ because I did like the attempt, I think if the story and characters were reevaluated and can be fleshed out this can be a solid 4 ⭐️ book.
One thing I will say is, the twists were twisting and if you’re into ‘What are you doing, Step-Bro?’ then this is right up your alley.
This was very Blue Lagoon coded and I was just expecting more. The plot seemed a bit unfinished and was more filler than anything. I would have loved to experience the dynamic of Charlotte and Dane pre-crash. Their relationship seemed rushed and there was absolutely zero build up between them. One or two chapters of the family when they initially landed could have changed the dynamic for me.
I wasn’t a fan of the writing style as I didn’t connect with the characters before and after the crash. I know we are to suspend belief when reading fiction but I just can’t fathom that neither Charlotte or Dane needed therapy for what they experienced on the island. We, as the reader don’t even really know what they experienced because we didn’t get to read about it. Sure, we got a few snippets here and there but I cant believe an eleven and twelve year old (along with their older brother, I don’t recall his age) survived that long on the island. They mentioned there was a crew on the yacht but NO ONE from that crew survived? The reasoning for the ‘crash’ honestly seemed like a rushed plot point as well. As an avid DR romance fan, this was lacking for me.
I’m giving 2.5 ⭐️ because I did like the attempt, I think if the story and characters were reevaluated and can be fleshed out this can be a solid 4 ⭐️ book.
One thing I will say is, the twists were twisting and if you’re into ‘What are you doing, Step-Bro?’ then this is right up your alley.
August 17, 2026
ARC Review | No One Will Know by Rebel Rose 🏝️📖
Thank you to @XpressoBook @netgalley @rebelrose for the copy.
Review:
This was such a wild reading experience. 😭
Charlotte and Dane have been trapped on an island for 14 years and I found myself really invested in seeing how they managed to survive and build a life with only each other. 14 years is such a long time and the story really makes you think about what isolation, survival and depending on one person for everything can do to you.
When they’re finally rescued, you’d think the hardest part would be over but coming back to the real world brings a whole different set of challenges. Their past, their bond and everything they experienced on the island make moving forward much more complicated than simply going home.
I did feel that the story was a little slow in some parts and I had an idea of where it might eventually go. Still, I kept reading because I wanted to see how everything would unfold. There were definitely moments where I felt conflicted, especially with some of the relationship dynamics. It’s very much a gray story and I think that’s something readers should be prepared for.
TW: isolation/captivity, survival, trauma, grief, death and complicated relationship dynamics.
No spoilers, but I really loved the ending. 🥹 It gave me the closure I was hoping for and made the whole journey feel worth it. After everything Charlotte and Dane went through, I was happy with how things came together.
4⭐️
Not a perfect 5-star read for me, but definitely a memorable one.
And after this? I’d definitely pick up another book from Rebel Rose. 👀📖
Thank you to @XpressoBook @netgalley @rebelrose for the copy.
Review:
This was such a wild reading experience. 😭
Charlotte and Dane have been trapped on an island for 14 years and I found myself really invested in seeing how they managed to survive and build a life with only each other. 14 years is such a long time and the story really makes you think about what isolation, survival and depending on one person for everything can do to you.
When they’re finally rescued, you’d think the hardest part would be over but coming back to the real world brings a whole different set of challenges. Their past, their bond and everything they experienced on the island make moving forward much more complicated than simply going home.
I did feel that the story was a little slow in some parts and I had an idea of where it might eventually go. Still, I kept reading because I wanted to see how everything would unfold. There were definitely moments where I felt conflicted, especially with some of the relationship dynamics. It’s very much a gray story and I think that’s something readers should be prepared for.
TW: isolation/captivity, survival, trauma, grief, death and complicated relationship dynamics.
No spoilers, but I really loved the ending. 🥹 It gave me the closure I was hoping for and made the whole journey feel worth it. After everything Charlotte and Dane went through, I was happy with how things came together.
4⭐️
Not a perfect 5-star read for me, but definitely a memorable one.
And after this? I’d definitely pick up another book from Rebel Rose. 👀📖
September 2, 2026
⭐️ Overall Rating: 5⭐️
🌶️ Spice: 3🌶️
📱 Kindle Unlimited: Yes
📚 Stand-alone/Series: Stand Alone
🗣️ POV: Charlotte/Dane
👫 Main Couple: Charlotte/Dane
🔥 Trope(s): stranded on a desert island, forbidden love, taboo love, survival
Reviews stated that this was spicy Blue Lagoon, and they did not disappoint. Definitely a taboo romance, as most of the way through the story the main characters believe they’re related. But how the pair is tortured by that, and choose their love in spite of it, is really told beautifully. They were stranded out on that island for fourteen years. Survived by depending on each other, on the life and routines they built. Their love story felt organic and it made sense. After being alone so long, who cares what anyone else might think about it.
I liked the timeline shift. When we started on their present day life on the island, I kept wondering when we were going to find out what happened on the yacht. There was this air of mystery, like I knew it was something horrible, but I didn’t know what. Then finally finding out when they told their family. They kept saying that what happened on the island was their story, and it didn’t belong to anyone else. Then when they shared it with their family, they shared it with the readers too. That was a neat shift.
There was a lot of beauty in this story, and I really enjoyed it. This was my first novel by this author, and now I want to see what else she’s written.
🌶️ Spice: 3🌶️
📱 Kindle Unlimited: Yes
📚 Stand-alone/Series: Stand Alone
🗣️ POV: Charlotte/Dane
👫 Main Couple: Charlotte/Dane
🔥 Trope(s): stranded on a desert island, forbidden love, taboo love, survival
Reviews stated that this was spicy Blue Lagoon, and they did not disappoint. Definitely a taboo romance, as most of the way through the story the main characters believe they’re related. But how the pair is tortured by that, and choose their love in spite of it, is really told beautifully. They were stranded out on that island for fourteen years. Survived by depending on each other, on the life and routines they built. Their love story felt organic and it made sense. After being alone so long, who cares what anyone else might think about it.
I liked the timeline shift. When we started on their present day life on the island, I kept wondering when we were going to find out what happened on the yacht. There was this air of mystery, like I knew it was something horrible, but I didn’t know what. Then finally finding out when they told their family. They kept saying that what happened on the island was their story, and it didn’t belong to anyone else. Then when they shared it with their family, they shared it with the readers too. That was a neat shift.
There was a lot of beauty in this story, and I really enjoyed it. This was my first novel by this author, and now I want to see what else she’s written.
August 4, 2026
I read this book because the cover looked like a shipwreck or Survivor! I haven’t read many forbidden romances and this one definitely fits the bill. By far the most mental one I have read!
I was very engaged reading this and yet there were some aspects of this book that felt rushed. I wish we could’ve built a better picture of these young kids surviving. There was no build up between the MCs. We just jumped right in and were told the MMC doesn’t like the FMC.
Revealing how they ended up on the island near the end didn’t add a twist or any emotional impact. It was the only part of the book that I had to pause for an extended period because I just lost the plot. I think it would’ve been helpful to give these characters more background and time for the reader to understand their dynamic.
The one aspect of this book that I couldn’t understand was the lack of therapy. They were deserted as children and survived for 14 years but aren’t going to be helped?! Maybe it’s an American thing but they should’ve been forced to talk to somebody!
I liked that the author created emotional tension at the end without the third-act breakup. This book works even though it’s impossible to explain without sounding unhinged!
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC!
4.25 stars
I was very engaged reading this and yet there were some aspects of this book that felt rushed. I wish we could’ve built a better picture of these young kids surviving. There was no build up between the MCs. We just jumped right in and were told the MMC doesn’t like the FMC.
Revealing how they ended up on the island near the end didn’t add a twist or any emotional impact. It was the only part of the book that I had to pause for an extended period because I just lost the plot. I think it would’ve been helpful to give these characters more background and time for the reader to understand their dynamic.
The one aspect of this book that I couldn’t understand was the lack of therapy. They were deserted as children and survived for 14 years but aren’t going to be helped?! Maybe it’s an American thing but they should’ve been forced to talk to somebody!
I liked that the author created emotional tension at the end without the third-act breakup. This book works even though it’s impossible to explain without sounding unhinged!
Thank you NetGalley and the publisher for the eARC!
4.25 stars
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I don't even know where to start with this one...
If you like your spice dark, this is the book for you.
Charlotte and Dane, siblings, are shipwrecked on an island as children. After losing their parents and other siblings, they only have each other. And they don't want anyone else... but they are on the island, and no one will know, right?
I loved the story, it's my first island romance, and I thought the plot was great. I loved how there was no typical "near the end of the book break-up" because it's so unnecessary, especially when two characters are so in love.
I didn't like how much spice there was. It was just far too much and too often, whilst it was well written and not cringe as most spice books are, it began to take away from the story. I skipped through most of those parts as it just didn't add anything beneficial to the plot. I don't need to read the same thing over and over again.
I'd love to know the actual page count for this book, as it is wrong on Goodreads and Amazon! It's definitely shorter than stated.
A book definitely not for the faint hearted! It would have been 5* if 75% of the spice was removed.
If you like your spice dark, this is the book for you.
Charlotte and Dane, siblings, are shipwrecked on an island as children. After losing their parents and other siblings, they only have each other. And they don't want anyone else... but they are on the island, and no one will know, right?
I loved the story, it's my first island romance, and I thought the plot was great. I loved how there was no typical "near the end of the book break-up" because it's so unnecessary, especially when two characters are so in love.
I didn't like how much spice there was. It was just far too much and too often, whilst it was well written and not cringe as most spice books are, it began to take away from the story. I skipped through most of those parts as it just didn't add anything beneficial to the plot. I don't need to read the same thing over and over again.
I'd love to know the actual page count for this book, as it is wrong on Goodreads and Amazon! It's definitely shorter than stated.
A book definitely not for the faint hearted! It would have been 5* if 75% of the spice was removed.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I loved it! It was beautiful, heart breaking, sexy, and slightly traumatizing with vibes that immediately made me think of The Blue Lagoon.
Meet Charlotte and Dane Gallagher, step-siblings stranded alone on a deserted island trying to survive after losing the rest of their family. Later, as young adults they find themselves trying to handle taboo feelings for each other.
The story is broken up into them being on the island, after being rescued and trying to figure out how to navigate their relationship around societal norms and trying to readjust being back in society in general after so many years, and flashbacks that finally tell exactly what happened to the other family members.
I really enjoyed the writing style, it’s clear and descriptive, the flow is well paced.
The yearning, the tension, then that final f#<€ it moment, chefs kiss. This story honestly caught me off guard, I ended up liking it even more than I thought I would. The ending was done so well.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this advance copy in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own.
Meet Charlotte and Dane Gallagher, step-siblings stranded alone on a deserted island trying to survive after losing the rest of their family. Later, as young adults they find themselves trying to handle taboo feelings for each other.
The story is broken up into them being on the island, after being rescued and trying to figure out how to navigate their relationship around societal norms and trying to readjust being back in society in general after so many years, and flashbacks that finally tell exactly what happened to the other family members.
I really enjoyed the writing style, it’s clear and descriptive, the flow is well paced.
The yearning, the tension, then that final f#<€ it moment, chefs kiss. This story honestly caught me off guard, I ended up liking it even more than I thought I would. The ending was done so well.
Thanks to the publisher and NetGalley for this advance copy in exchange for an honest review. Opinions are my own.
July 27, 2026
I really enjoyed No One Will Know. The premise immediately pulled me in, and I found myself completely invested from the very beginning.
What stood out most to me was the emotional depth of the story. The characters felt authentic, and their journey was both heartfelt and compelling. Rebel, did a great job building tension, developing relationships, and keeping me engaged throughout the book.
I especially appreciated the writing style. It was easy to read, well paced, and descriptive without feeling overwhelming. The story flowed smoothly, and I found it difficult to put down once I started.
The romance was intense, emotional, and beautifully written. The connection between the main characters felt genuine, and their growth throughout the story kept me rooting for them until the very end. I also liked that the story focused on loyalty, resilience, and the choices people make when faced with extraordinary circumstances.
While there were a few moments that required some suspension of disbelief, they didn't take away from my overall enjoyment. The emotional impact and character development more than made up for it.
Overall, this was a captivating, emotional read that stayed with me long after I finished it. If you enjoy character-driven romance with plenty of drama, tension, and heartfelt moments, I would definitely recommend giving this book a try.
What stood out most to me was the emotional depth of the story. The characters felt authentic, and their journey was both heartfelt and compelling. Rebel, did a great job building tension, developing relationships, and keeping me engaged throughout the book.
I especially appreciated the writing style. It was easy to read, well paced, and descriptive without feeling overwhelming. The story flowed smoothly, and I found it difficult to put down once I started.
The romance was intense, emotional, and beautifully written. The connection between the main characters felt genuine, and their growth throughout the story kept me rooting for them until the very end. I also liked that the story focused on loyalty, resilience, and the choices people make when faced with extraordinary circumstances.
While there were a few moments that required some suspension of disbelief, they didn't take away from my overall enjoyment. The emotional impact and character development more than made up for it.
Overall, this was a captivating, emotional read that stayed with me long after I finished it. If you enjoy character-driven romance with plenty of drama, tension, and heartfelt moments, I would definitely recommend giving this book a try.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
The premise had real potential, the kind that promises to pull you under and not let you up for air. Unfortunately, this one didn’t quite get there for me.
At times the wording and phrasing felt repetitive, which kept pulling me out of the story just when I wanted to sink into it. Instead of that immersive, can’t-come-up-for-air feeling, it started to feel suffocating in the wrong way. It’s not a bad book… it was entertaining enough to get me to the end, and I did need to see how everything played out but it moved too slowly, and I never connected enough with the characters to truly care.
It’s not one I’ll be pressing into friends’ hands or bringing up in conversation, but it could work as a quick, easy summer read if you’re not looking for anything too demanding.
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity and ARC.
At times the wording and phrasing felt repetitive, which kept pulling me out of the story just when I wanted to sink into it. Instead of that immersive, can’t-come-up-for-air feeling, it started to feel suffocating in the wrong way. It’s not a bad book… it was entertaining enough to get me to the end, and I did need to see how everything played out but it moved too slowly, and I never connected enough with the characters to truly care.
It’s not one I’ll be pressing into friends’ hands or bringing up in conversation, but it could work as a quick, easy summer read if you’re not looking for anything too demanding.
Thank you NetGalley for the opportunity and ARC.
July 26, 2026
Just a quick warning - there’re spoilers in my review. Don’t read if this bothers you!
This is Not the usual romance novel it’s different. It sure is a romance but so much more. I loved how the story was not just around a couple for a few years but their whole growing up and early adult life. This is such a unique story never read anything like it. The only thing I wasn’t a particularly fan of is the (half!)sibling relationship. I don’t know why this was such a crazy taboo maybe cause I don’t have siblings I just don’t get it.. it feels like it was way blown out of proportion but I do understand that those kinda things happen with AI and social media and all that.. for me personally the drama would’ve been enough if it would’ve ended after their rescue. Really loved the relationship and also the drama on the island, felt like I was there with them - including crying over Connor..
This is Not the usual romance novel it’s different. It sure is a romance but so much more. I loved how the story was not just around a couple for a few years but their whole growing up and early adult life. This is such a unique story never read anything like it. The only thing I wasn’t a particularly fan of is the (half!)sibling relationship. I don’t know why this was such a crazy taboo maybe cause I don’t have siblings I just don’t get it.. it feels like it was way blown out of proportion but I do understand that those kinda things happen with AI and social media and all that.. for me personally the drama would’ve been enough if it would’ve ended after their rescue. Really loved the relationship and also the drama on the island, felt like I was there with them - including crying over Connor..
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
August 6, 2026
No One Will Know is a haunting and emotionally gripping novel that explores survival, trauma, and the lasting impact of isolation. Rebel Rose crafts a story that is both psychologically intense and deeply character driven, keeping readers invested from the very first page.
The emotional complexity of the relationship between the two survivors is handled with remarkable depth, highlighting how extraordinary circumstances can reshape identity, trust, and human connection. The contrast between their years of survival and the overwhelming scrutiny of the outside world creates a compelling psychological tension that continues to build throughout the novel.
Dark, thought provoking, and impossible to put down, No One Will Know is a captivating read for fans of psychological fiction, survival stories, and emotionally layered suspense that challenges readers long after the final chapter.
The emotional complexity of the relationship between the two survivors is handled with remarkable depth, highlighting how extraordinary circumstances can reshape identity, trust, and human connection. The contrast between their years of survival and the overwhelming scrutiny of the outside world creates a compelling psychological tension that continues to build throughout the novel.
Dark, thought provoking, and impossible to put down, No One Will Know is a captivating read for fans of psychological fiction, survival stories, and emotionally layered suspense that challenges readers long after the final chapter.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
I went into this book knowing little of what it was about other than forbidden love. When I started the book, I immediately had an idea of where the story would go and was hesitant to keep going. I actually stopped reading it and picked up another book for a few days. Getting back to this one, I wish I never would have put it down. I was wrong about the story. This book was so good I couldn’t stop reading it! I haven’t had a book like that in a while! The story does start out a bit slow, but once you’re in it it’s so hard to stop. I just kept reading and reading, needing to know where the story would go. I felt as though it was very well balanced in the aspects of romance, plot and spice. This was such a good read! It was giving Jennifer Hartmann vibes with the taboo love!!!
July 24, 2026
This scratched an itch I never knew I had! I’ve loved The Blue Lagoon since I was a kid and have always wanted to find a book with those same vibes. This absolutely delivered.
The tropical setting, survival elements, forbidden romance, angst, and steam all worked so well together. The yearning in this book was top tier, and when they finally gave in… perfection!
It was beautiful, heartbreaking, sexy, and at times slightly traumatizing in the best wat. The writing was easy to sink into, the pacing never dragged, and I honestly ended up loving this far more than I expected.
If The Blue Lagoon but make it a spicy romance sounds like your thing, definitely pick this one up Thank you to Rebel Rose and Book Sirens for the opportunity to review this book.
The tropical setting, survival elements, forbidden romance, angst, and steam all worked so well together. The yearning in this book was top tier, and when they finally gave in… perfection!
It was beautiful, heartbreaking, sexy, and at times slightly traumatizing in the best wat. The writing was easy to sink into, the pacing never dragged, and I honestly ended up loving this far more than I expected.
If The Blue Lagoon but make it a spicy romance sounds like your thing, definitely pick this one up Thank you to Rebel Rose and Book Sirens for the opportunity to review this book.
Review of advance copy received from NetGalley
Thank you to NetGalley and the publisher for the ARC. All opinions are my own.
I’m so middle of the road on this book. I was genuinely invested in the first half and loved watching the characters adaptions to life on the island. Even though the romance developed quickly, I found myself rooting for them.
The second half, however, didn’t work nearly as well. Some major reveals came so late that (even though it was expected) they made large portions of the story feel super uncomfortable, and several plot points felt underdeveloped or nonsensical. Overall, I really enjoyed the initial premise and the first half of the book, but the ending didn’t come together in a satisfying way for me.
I’m so middle of the road on this book. I was genuinely invested in the first half and loved watching the characters adaptions to life on the island. Even though the romance developed quickly, I found myself rooting for them.
The second half, however, didn’t work nearly as well. Some major reveals came so late that (even though it was expected) they made large portions of the story feel super uncomfortable, and several plot points felt underdeveloped or nonsensical. Overall, I really enjoyed the initial premise and the first half of the book, but the ending didn’t come together in a satisfying way for me.
July 17, 2026
This is Dane and Charlotte’s journey.
Violence shattered Charlotte’s world at 11-years-old, and she and her family survived for years, until one by one they go, and Dane, her protector is the only one left with her. Being rescued, Dane and Charlotte are thrust into the limelight, and they navigate a world where they become the obsession of the media.
This is an easy to read, slow burn story, with family, friendships, emotions, public scandal, secrets, obsession, survival, enemies / lovers, forced proximity, romance, soulmates, and forbidden love, which leads to an enjoyable, tragic, and unpredictable page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
Violence shattered Charlotte’s world at 11-years-old, and she and her family survived for years, until one by one they go, and Dane, her protector is the only one left with her. Being rescued, Dane and Charlotte are thrust into the limelight, and they navigate a world where they become the obsession of the media.
This is an easy to read, slow burn story, with family, friendships, emotions, public scandal, secrets, obsession, survival, enemies / lovers, forced proximity, romance, soulmates, and forbidden love, which leads to an enjoyable, tragic, and unpredictable page turner.
I look forward to reading more from this author in the future.
July 22, 2026
This was an awesome story to read. Dane and Charlotte were step siblings and Dane didn’t care for Charlotte. But after being stranded on an island for so many years, family passing away, leaving only them. You either continue the hatred or you learn to find a friendship. Well, these two found love. It was taboo but it happened.
Finally being rescued, but they have to navigate their life and live in a world they hadn’t been a part of for so long. The judgment, the limelight, it was a lot. But I was so glad to see they were able to push all of that away and be happy and in love with one another after all was said and done.
Finally being rescued, but they have to navigate their life and live in a world they hadn’t been a part of for so long. The judgment, the limelight, it was a lot. But I was so glad to see they were able to push all of that away and be happy and in love with one another after all was said and done.
Review of advance copy
Wow I loved this.
Castawat was a new topic for me to read which was good.
I plowed through this book it was just to easy and enjoyable to read.
It did bring me to tears and is heavy on the triggers so be warned if you are sensitive to certain ones.
This is a story about 2 people who have been brought together through extreme circumstances and how they grow together.
I did like how it doesnt spend lots of time with filler over the years. I enjoyed the time skips.
Loved the characters
I wpuld read more of her works.
Castawat was a new topic for me to read which was good.
I plowed through this book it was just to easy and enjoyable to read.
It did bring me to tears and is heavy on the triggers so be warned if you are sensitive to certain ones.
This is a story about 2 people who have been brought together through extreme circumstances and how they grow together.
I did like how it doesnt spend lots of time with filler over the years. I enjoyed the time skips.
Loved the characters
I wpuld read more of her works.
July 12, 2026
This forbidden romance had everything to keep you hooked from the start. I absolutely loved Charlotte and Dane and the journey they went on together. There is so much trauma that they experienced and the author portrayed it beautifully.
I would recommend this to those that enjoy a forbidden romance, trauma rep, isolation, and are comfortable with certain potential triggers such as the loss of a child.
Thank you to NetGalley, Xpresso Book Tours, and the author for letting me be part of this ARC. Please note all reviews are my honest and unbiased opinion.
I would recommend this to those that enjoy a forbidden romance, trauma rep, isolation, and are comfortable with certain potential triggers such as the loss of a child.
Thank you to NetGalley, Xpresso Book Tours, and the author for letting me be part of this ARC. Please note all reviews are my honest and unbiased opinion.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
What a beautifully emotional book!
Dane and Charlotte are stranded on an island for years, in that time the family they were shipwrecked with is lost and they only have each other to rely on.
The only problem is they never connected as siblings and now other feelings are emerging! This is the ultimate forbidden romance! But written so so well and gosh the twists keep coming amongst all the emotion right up until a very beautiful ending!
Loved it!
Dane and Charlotte are stranded on an island for years, in that time the family they were shipwrecked with is lost and they only have each other to rely on.
The only problem is they never connected as siblings and now other feelings are emerging! This is the ultimate forbidden romance! But written so so well and gosh the twists keep coming amongst all the emotion right up until a very beautiful ending!
Loved it!
July 16, 2026
🌶️🌶️🌶️
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Dual POV
HEA; Standalone
Tropes/TW:
Contemporary forbidden romance
Taboo love
Enemies to lovers
Forced proximity
Virgin FMC & MMC
14 year isolation
Secrets, scandal, & survival
Violence / Death / Grief / Pregnancy & loss / Trauma / Abuse / Incest
Thank you Rebel Rose and Netgalley for the opportunity to review this ARC copy.
*I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
⭐️⭐️⭐️.5
Dual POV
HEA; Standalone
Tropes/TW:
Contemporary forbidden romance
Taboo love
Enemies to lovers
Forced proximity
Virgin FMC & MMC
14 year isolation
Secrets, scandal, & survival
Violence / Death / Grief / Pregnancy & loss / Trauma / Abuse / Incest
Thank you Rebel Rose and Netgalley for the opportunity to review this ARC copy.
*I received an advance review copy for free and I am leaving this review voluntarily.*
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
July 18, 2026
I received this as an ARC. I saw the sign up for it and the premise sounded so good I had to try. I’m so glad I got his. This author is new to me but I will definitely be reading more of her works. I literally could not put this down and read it almost in one sitting. I was intrigued from the beginning with Dane and Charlotte’s story. This one will be sticking with me for a while. Once this is releases, run, don’t walk and get yourself a copy!
September 4, 2026
Surprise 5 star
I don't typically write reviews. I found this book exceptional. The author evoked a full range of emotions from fear, awe, frustration, and at the end happiness for our main characters. The writing surprised me as I expected some over the top leanings due to the trope. Instead it was written realistically with some honest perspective for the "what if" situation.
I don't typically write reviews. I found this book exceptional. The author evoked a full range of emotions from fear, awe, frustration, and at the end happiness for our main characters. The writing surprised me as I expected some over the top leanings due to the trope. Instead it was written realistically with some honest perspective for the "what if" situation.
Review of advance copy received from Netgalley
Never was for the forbidden romance trope but this is played out in a way that is not too bad. After being shipwrecked both the FMC and MMC have a relationship that they now is forbidden but not having grownup together they start something. After being rescued they have a hard time adjusting to the world that is completely new to them.
I wasnt sure what to expect but its wasnt as bad as I thought.
Thank you to Rebel Rose and Xpresso Books for the ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
I wasnt sure what to expect but its wasnt as bad as I thought.
Thank you to Rebel Rose and Xpresso Books for the ARC copy in exchange for my honest review.
Read
August 21, 2026Surprised
I was pleasantly surprised with this story. I wanted more of the past and then soon got it. It wasn't as much as I'd wanted but it was okay. The twist at the end was good because it made what happened with them easier to digest. Although if it were real I could understand it. It was an interesting read that's for sure.
I was pleasantly surprised with this story. I wanted more of the past and then soon got it. It wasn't as much as I'd wanted but it was okay. The twist at the end was good because it made what happened with them easier to digest. Although if it were real I could understand it. It was an interesting read that's for sure.
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