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Gia, San Francisco Romances #3
Take Two
Being in love is Whitney Dimaano’s favorite past time. Though lately, she can’t seem to get it right. She’s tried—she is trying—but it just hasn’t…clicked, and maybe her time would be better spent focusing on all the things that are actually good in her life. The gym she all but built with her own two hands, the new-found bond with her brother and sister, her friends… Anything but chasing the ghost of how it felt with the woman who left her behind.
Award-winning documentarian Andy Vahn dreamed of being an extraordinary filmmaker. Her recipe for success is a fusion of meticulous planning, diligence, and never letting anything stand in her way. Not even love. When a trip to convince a misanthropic celebrity chef to appear in her docuseries leads her home, Andy knows it won’t be easy. Least of all because she hasn’t been back in six years. Hasn’t seen Whitney in six years. Still, it’s true what they say. You never forget your first.
Maybe Andy’s return is the closure Whitney needs. But what if all it does is reaffirm Andy’s deepest fear?
She should never have left.
Award-winning documentarian Andy Vahn dreamed of being an extraordinary filmmaker. Her recipe for success is a fusion of meticulous planning, diligence, and never letting anything stand in her way. Not even love. When a trip to convince a misanthropic celebrity chef to appear in her docuseries leads her home, Andy knows it won’t be easy. Least of all because she hasn’t been back in six years. Hasn’t seen Whitney in six years. Still, it’s true what they say. You never forget your first.
Maybe Andy’s return is the closure Whitney needs. But what if all it does is reaffirm Andy’s deepest fear?
She should never have left.
302 pages, Kindle Edition
Published October 28, 2022
84 people are currently reading
397 people want to read
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 42 reviews
October 20, 2022
Book three in the Gia San Franciso gives us Whitney Dimaano’s story. If you haven’t read Chef’s Kiss or Missed Connection, the book where we are introduced to Whitney, stop what you’re doing and read them now. Not that you can’t enjoy this one without reading those, but they are simply too good to miss and the insight we gain into Whitney in Missed Connection enriches the experience while reading this book.
Whitney owns her own fitness center, is establishing relationships with her half brother and sister she’s only recently met, but her love life is stagnant. Not that she hasn’t tried, she’s been seeing a doctor for two months but there’s no spark. She’s only felt that with one person, and she left her. When Andy reappears in her life, she tries to hold onto the anger she’s felt for the last six years. If only her body didn’t still react to Andy’s nearness and her heart didn’t beat a little faster whenever she simply thought about Andy.
Andy Vahn returns to San Francisco to persuade Jenn Coleman to appear in her documentary but she’s also back to make amends. Six years ago, she fled to London and left everyone behind, her best friend, her parents and Whitney, the only woman she has ever loved. She isn’t sure she deserves Whitney’s forgiveness, but it isn’t going to stop her from trying. Despite the success she’s found, there’s been something missing since the moment she left Whitney.
Last year when I first read Chef’s Kiss, I knew I was reading the words of a special author. That feeling has only been strengthened after Whispering Oaks and Missed Connection. With Take Two, Stephanie Shea continues her ascent into the upper echelon of sapphic authors. This is the kind of book that reminds me why I love reading so much. It is filled with angst and humor, but more than anything, it makes me believe in soulmates, because in no universe is there anyone for Whitney but Andy. They were always meant to find each other and then find their way back.
I may possibly be in love with Jenn Coleman from Chef’s Kiss. Truth, if I could bring her to life, I would dump my gf right now and make her mine. So, I was very happy to see her, Val, Avery and Kyla make appearances. I love seeing how everyone from previous books are doing, like checking in on old friends.
Out of the 100 plus books I have read this year, this is the most romantic. It is so painfully beautiful, I had tears in my eyes on more than one occasion. Stephanie Shea uses flashbacks to show their past relationship which only helped make it more obvious the depth of feelings they shared. I love everything about this book, from the use of imagery that helps me picture so vividly what is happening, to Whitney and Andy’s growth individually and as a couple to the declarations that are so stunningly well written, I have no choice but to continue hyping Stephanie Shea to anyone who will listen. I can’t think of an author who is more deserving.
An ARC was received from the author for an honest review.
Whitney owns her own fitness center, is establishing relationships with her half brother and sister she’s only recently met, but her love life is stagnant. Not that she hasn’t tried, she’s been seeing a doctor for two months but there’s no spark. She’s only felt that with one person, and she left her. When Andy reappears in her life, she tries to hold onto the anger she’s felt for the last six years. If only her body didn’t still react to Andy’s nearness and her heart didn’t beat a little faster whenever she simply thought about Andy.
Andy Vahn returns to San Francisco to persuade Jenn Coleman to appear in her documentary but she’s also back to make amends. Six years ago, she fled to London and left everyone behind, her best friend, her parents and Whitney, the only woman she has ever loved. She isn’t sure she deserves Whitney’s forgiveness, but it isn’t going to stop her from trying. Despite the success she’s found, there’s been something missing since the moment she left Whitney.
Last year when I first read Chef’s Kiss, I knew I was reading the words of a special author. That feeling has only been strengthened after Whispering Oaks and Missed Connection. With Take Two, Stephanie Shea continues her ascent into the upper echelon of sapphic authors. This is the kind of book that reminds me why I love reading so much. It is filled with angst and humor, but more than anything, it makes me believe in soulmates, because in no universe is there anyone for Whitney but Andy. They were always meant to find each other and then find their way back.
I may possibly be in love with Jenn Coleman from Chef’s Kiss. Truth, if I could bring her to life, I would dump my gf right now and make her mine. So, I was very happy to see her, Val, Avery and Kyla make appearances. I love seeing how everyone from previous books are doing, like checking in on old friends.
Out of the 100 plus books I have read this year, this is the most romantic. It is so painfully beautiful, I had tears in my eyes on more than one occasion. Stephanie Shea uses flashbacks to show their past relationship which only helped make it more obvious the depth of feelings they shared. I love everything about this book, from the use of imagery that helps me picture so vividly what is happening, to Whitney and Andy’s growth individually and as a couple to the declarations that are so stunningly well written, I have no choice but to continue hyping Stephanie Shea to anyone who will listen. I can’t think of an author who is more deserving.
An ARC was received from the author for an honest review.
October 31, 2022
Whitney Dimaano may be one of my favourite fictional characters and I cannot wait for everyone to fall for her and Andy’s story the way I have.
First off Shea has a real talent for creating realistically flawed and beautiful characters and I was completely drawn into the plot and couldn’t stop turning the pages. Whitney is hyper focused on her making her business the best it can be and enjoying getting to know her new found siblings. Then her ex, Andy, shows up after years apart and a lot of history. Andy is now a successful documentary maker and a chance encounter quickly brings to the surface all of the feelings they thought they left behind.
I loved the back and forth between both of them as they each have their own battle scars from their time together; this isn’t a straightforward sapphic romance and for that I adored every gorgeous chapter. What felt so refreshing for me was that Shea has depicted a realistic representation of a demi character in Whitney and I related so much to the way she handled the pull that she still feels around Andy. Needless to say to anyone who knows Shea’s work, the chemistry is palpable and the supporting cast are vividly written and add a lot of impact in all of the right places. ‘Take two’ is the third instalment of the Gia series so although there are plenty of references to the stories that came before, it can easily be read as a standalone novel.
I really loved this story and couldn’t help but become drawn in by enigmatic characters and the authentic emotions around two women who cannot help but wonder what might have been and what still could.
Definitely one of my favourite books this year!
First off Shea has a real talent for creating realistically flawed and beautiful characters and I was completely drawn into the plot and couldn’t stop turning the pages. Whitney is hyper focused on her making her business the best it can be and enjoying getting to know her new found siblings. Then her ex, Andy, shows up after years apart and a lot of history. Andy is now a successful documentary maker and a chance encounter quickly brings to the surface all of the feelings they thought they left behind.
I loved the back and forth between both of them as they each have their own battle scars from their time together; this isn’t a straightforward sapphic romance and for that I adored every gorgeous chapter. What felt so refreshing for me was that Shea has depicted a realistic representation of a demi character in Whitney and I related so much to the way she handled the pull that she still feels around Andy. Needless to say to anyone who knows Shea’s work, the chemistry is palpable and the supporting cast are vividly written and add a lot of impact in all of the right places. ‘Take two’ is the third instalment of the Gia series so although there are plenty of references to the stories that came before, it can easily be read as a standalone novel.
I really loved this story and couldn’t help but become drawn in by enigmatic characters and the authentic emotions around two women who cannot help but wonder what might have been and what still could.
Definitely one of my favourite books this year!
February 17, 2025
This is a fantastic second chance love story between Whitney and Andy. (This is book 3 in the GIA series, I highly recommend reading the 1st two, Chef's Kiss and Missed Connection).Whitney and Andy were together since they were 15, until 6 years ago when Andy went to London to study film making. Now Andy is back and a successful documentary film maker. What's a woman to do? Oh, I so love this book. The chemistry between Whitney and Andy is amazing. Yet, Whitney holds back, you can't blame her. Do yourself a favor, read this book. 5 stars!!
May 8, 2023
I love second chance romance. Chemistry and resentment are like oxygen and sparks : mixing them gives you flames . Not only Shea wrote it brilliantly but she did it with so many feelings. I felt with both main characters : Whitney's resentment and pain, mixed with the love she thought she locked in a box, love that escapes the moment Andy comes back in her life ; Andy's guilt and knowledge of what she has lost, struggling to get back into Whitney's life with patience and penance. Shea takes you in a sort of limbo of relationship where they are inevitable to each other while being unable to be friends or true lovers.
Concerning intimate scenes, I interpreted Whitney as being somewhere on the demi sexual spectrum and the scenes are as emotionally charged as they are hot.
Peripherical characters are numerous and rich, with new ones and old ones from the first two books of the serie: Avery, perfect in her big sister role, our beloved Jenn and Val, more solid and happy than ever. They bring a lot to the story.
Feeling with characters, living the action with them is exactly what makes me love a book. That's the reason why Take two was my favorite book from the serie. I just loved it.
You could read the books as standalones but I strongly advice to read them in order to get full experience of the universe. Shea writes about strong, sometimes flawed and vulnerable women of color.
This serie was perfect to fall for Stephanie Shea's writing
Concerning intimate scenes, I interpreted Whitney as being somewhere on the demi sexual spectrum and the scenes are as emotionally charged as they are hot.
Peripherical characters are numerous and rich, with new ones and old ones from the first two books of the serie: Avery, perfect in her big sister role, our beloved Jenn and Val, more solid and happy than ever. They bring a lot to the story.
Feeling with characters, living the action with them is exactly what makes me love a book. That's the reason why Take two was my favorite book from the serie. I just loved it.
You could read the books as standalones but I strongly advice to read them in order to get full experience of the universe. Shea writes about strong, sometimes flawed and vulnerable women of color.
This serie was perfect to fall for Stephanie Shea's writing
November 19, 2022
A f/f romance with lots of emotions
Ever since I stumbled on the Chef‘s Kiss, the first in the Gia series, I really look forward to each installment. This is #3 and it is as good as the first two - full of emotion, chemistry, relatable main characters, great secondary characters. I good, satisfying f/f romance with a full dose of „the feels“. Good to see again the cast of the previous novels. And Wes, the doggie, is adorable. And a treat to see a diverse diverse cast.
PS.: Isabelle deserves her own novel, just sayin‘.
Ever since I stumbled on the Chef‘s Kiss, the first in the Gia series, I really look forward to each installment. This is #3 and it is as good as the first two - full of emotion, chemistry, relatable main characters, great secondary characters. I good, satisfying f/f romance with a full dose of „the feels“. Good to see again the cast of the previous novels. And Wes, the doggie, is adorable. And a treat to see a diverse diverse cast.
PS.: Isabelle deserves her own novel, just sayin‘.
December 7, 2022
Another phenomenal book by Steph Shea!
November 23, 2022
This is probably my favorite out of the Gia San Francisco series. It’s such a beautifully sad story and has everything I want in a romance novel. Great main characters and side characters (who I already love thanks to books one and two), sizzling hot chemistry between the two main characters (it’s so good y’all), a second chance at love, angst (that’s painfully good), a cute dog, and a well deserved HEA.
Take Two centers around Whitney and Andy, two exes who haven’t seen each other in a few years, and how they navigate their intertwined lives now that Andy has returned to San Francisco. Separately, Whitney and Andy are fantastic characters. They’re layered and flawed and I ached for them to get together as soon as they were reunited. Together, Whiteney and Andy might be one of my favorite book couples of the year. Stephanie beautifully details the depth of the love and anger between the two and made me really care about their happiness.I haven’t been able to stop thinking about them since I finished the book and they get bonus points for having some of the best spicy scenes in a romance novel that I’ve read in a while.
I highly recommend this book and while you’re at it, go ahead and read everything Stephanie Shea has released! While Take Two can be read as a stand-alone, you should check books one and two in the Gia San Francisco series. You won’t regret it.
Take Two centers around Whitney and Andy, two exes who haven’t seen each other in a few years, and how they navigate their intertwined lives now that Andy has returned to San Francisco. Separately, Whitney and Andy are fantastic characters. They’re layered and flawed and I ached for them to get together as soon as they were reunited. Together, Whiteney and Andy might be one of my favorite book couples of the year. Stephanie beautifully details the depth of the love and anger between the two and made me really care about their happiness.I haven’t been able to stop thinking about them since I finished the book and they get bonus points for having some of the best spicy scenes in a romance novel that I’ve read in a while.
I highly recommend this book and while you’re at it, go ahead and read everything Stephanie Shea has released! While Take Two can be read as a stand-alone, you should check books one and two in the Gia San Francisco series. You won’t regret it.
December 21, 2023
I have a lot of venting to do but I will try to make this simple
I don’t like second chances romance, and i hate them when the person doesn’t deserve a second chance
Andy here does not deserve a second chance at all
I didn’t like her from the start, i really tried to but i didn’t, and with every chapter i read i hated her more, especially after she admitted the reason she left! It was so ridiculous don’t even get me started
Let me simplify it more by putting this here:
“But if she loves me the way she says, why didn’t she stay? Why not help me understand? Why wait six years to come back and tell me she wants it all? Why would she do that?”
Can you believe that Whit was going to propose and Andy found out and that’s why she left? Are you fucking kidding me?
If i was in Whitney place i wouldn’t even want to see her again, in fact i would have slapped her the second she admitted the reason she left.
And them having sex over and over again without having a proper conversation about what happened 6 years ago just made so angry! How did they think that will ever work?
Whitney deserves so much better than her, i would’ve liked it if the romance was between her and Isabella actually 🙄.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 9, 2022
perfect perfect perfect
I enjoyed this so much, and this is coming from someone whose first choice wouldn’t be a second-chance romance. But it worked for me. Both Whitney and Andy were like able realistic characters.
Stephanie Shea wrote the F outta this book, it was sexy, uplifting, sad, but then hopeful! I live near SF so reading books set in this area is comforting to me.
Could be read as a stand alone but the other two books are also very good, and I feel like you’ll meet the characters in the right order of you read them in order.
I enjoyed this so much, and this is coming from someone whose first choice wouldn’t be a second-chance romance. But it worked for me. Both Whitney and Andy were like able realistic characters.
Stephanie Shea wrote the F outta this book, it was sexy, uplifting, sad, but then hopeful! I live near SF so reading books set in this area is comforting to me.
Could be read as a stand alone but the other two books are also very good, and I feel like you’ll meet the characters in the right order of you read them in order.
October 28, 2022
Whitney runs into the one person she has not been able to forget Andy. I felt like they had a connection that never severed. Andy left and tried to move on with her life, as a film Director, but I believe it came at a price. She lost the only person that she ever truly loved and ever felt she may have a future with.
Side note: The supporting cast in this book was simply beyond amazing. Everyone was there to support the two main characters. Whitley had a lot going on with her family. Her siblings and her parents had hidden from her. She was trying to cope with it, which caused some challenges .
I really appreciate the author having a strong and successful woman of color in this story, who doesn’t have to dim their light for anyone. Who understands who they are.
For me, the book was intriguing from the beginning and just flowed together with ease. Effortless.
There was a fire between Whitney and Andy that was undeniable. The author made sure this book be spicy 🌶, Whitney wanted the love she only felt with Andy again. She did have questions but she could see the amazing woman she had become.
Whitney did not want to be hurt again. She was afraid of Andy walking away and leaving her to pick up the pieces of her heart. Can Andy convince Whitley to give their love another chance?
The story is rich with emotions. I was able to fully understand Whitney's pain and hesitation to trust again, but I could also see that Andy had realized the mistake she made and wanted so desperately to earn back Whitney's trust.
I would like to thank the author for the arc! The book was thought provoking. I highly recommend this book. It will be available on October 28, 2022
Side note: The supporting cast in this book was simply beyond amazing. Everyone was there to support the two main characters. Whitley had a lot going on with her family. Her siblings and her parents had hidden from her. She was trying to cope with it, which caused some challenges .
I really appreciate the author having a strong and successful woman of color in this story, who doesn’t have to dim their light for anyone. Who understands who they are.
For me, the book was intriguing from the beginning and just flowed together with ease. Effortless.
There was a fire between Whitney and Andy that was undeniable. The author made sure this book be spicy 🌶, Whitney wanted the love she only felt with Andy again. She did have questions but she could see the amazing woman she had become.
Whitney did not want to be hurt again. She was afraid of Andy walking away and leaving her to pick up the pieces of her heart. Can Andy convince Whitley to give their love another chance?
The story is rich with emotions. I was able to fully understand Whitney's pain and hesitation to trust again, but I could also see that Andy had realized the mistake she made and wanted so desperately to earn back Whitney's trust.
I would like to thank the author for the arc! The book was thought provoking. I highly recommend this book. It will be available on October 28, 2022
April 5, 2024
This is book two in the San Francisco series. All I can say is this book is phenomenal! Loved it so much!! Couldn’t put it down once I started! Check it out 😁
July 19, 2023
A great second chance romance
Whitney has missed being in love but Andy left and nothing has felt right since. Just as she starts getting her life back together, Andy is suddenly back after six years for work. Running into one another could be a chance for closure but Andy fears that meeting again after all this time will only confirm she shouldn’t have left in the first place.
This was a great story about reconnecting and admitting when you made a mistake. Andy’s fears are completely valid and as soon as she and Whitney were back in one another’s lives it was understandable why she had them. Whitney was such a romantic but that didn’t meant she was in an instantly forgiving mood upon discovering Andy was back home. That tension between them helped to build some drama and tension until they started properly acknowledging what had happened and exploring if they both still felt the same way.
It was a simple story about fate playing a part in making sure good things don’t pass you by. I admired how Whitney was able to put aside the fact that Andy had previously left her and try things again. Definitely conveyed how strong a connection they previously had and why it was so natural to pick it back up and try again.
Although this book is part of a series, it is a standalone story and you do not have to read the other books in the series to get to know the characters or understand the story. I really enjoyed this sweet, heartfelt, second chance romance.
Whitney has missed being in love but Andy left and nothing has felt right since. Just as she starts getting her life back together, Andy is suddenly back after six years for work. Running into one another could be a chance for closure but Andy fears that meeting again after all this time will only confirm she shouldn’t have left in the first place.
This was a great story about reconnecting and admitting when you made a mistake. Andy’s fears are completely valid and as soon as she and Whitney were back in one another’s lives it was understandable why she had them. Whitney was such a romantic but that didn’t meant she was in an instantly forgiving mood upon discovering Andy was back home. That tension between them helped to build some drama and tension until they started properly acknowledging what had happened and exploring if they both still felt the same way.
It was a simple story about fate playing a part in making sure good things don’t pass you by. I admired how Whitney was able to put aside the fact that Andy had previously left her and try things again. Definitely conveyed how strong a connection they previously had and why it was so natural to pick it back up and try again.
Although this book is part of a series, it is a standalone story and you do not have to read the other books in the series to get to know the characters or understand the story. I really enjoyed this sweet, heartfelt, second chance romance.
November 12, 2022
Yes. Oh my god, YES. This is book 3 in the Gia series and I think this was the best one yet.
For starters, the trope pulled me in right away, I’m a huge fan of a second chance. The idea of history and chemistry and feelings that never went away are romantic to me and this one did NOT disappoint.
I knew from the moment we were first introduced to Whitney that she had the potential of being an amazing character and before even knowing she was going to be the focus of book 3, I wanted to know her story. The character development in this book is amazing and both women are so well written that I feel as if I know them. The emotions that they were feeling was also written so well I could feel it myself. My heart ached for them. I wanted them together.
So let’s recap. Trope? Check. Chemistry? Off the charts. History? Deep. Heat? HOT. I give this a sizzling 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️. I couldn’t read the sex in public because my face got red and I had the initial reaction of fanning my face.
I have had the pleasure of reading everything published by Stephanie and as a reader I can see and feel the growth as a writer. It’s amazing. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for something with emotions, good characters, and heat.
For starters, the trope pulled me in right away, I’m a huge fan of a second chance. The idea of history and chemistry and feelings that never went away are romantic to me and this one did NOT disappoint.
I knew from the moment we were first introduced to Whitney that she had the potential of being an amazing character and before even knowing she was going to be the focus of book 3, I wanted to know her story. The character development in this book is amazing and both women are so well written that I feel as if I know them. The emotions that they were feeling was also written so well I could feel it myself. My heart ached for them. I wanted them together.
So let’s recap. Trope? Check. Chemistry? Off the charts. History? Deep. Heat? HOT. I give this a sizzling 🌶️🌶️🌶️🌶️. I couldn’t read the sex in public because my face got red and I had the initial reaction of fanning my face.
I have had the pleasure of reading everything published by Stephanie and as a reader I can see and feel the growth as a writer. It’s amazing. I highly recommend this to anyone looking for something with emotions, good characters, and heat.
September 6, 2023
I loved Chef’s Kiss, so when I saw all the positive reviews for this one, I couldn’t resist. Honestly, it was a very slow start for me. The plot and chemistry weren’t there for me. But, it really picks up towards the end- gets really steamy and more importantly it’s a beautiful homage to love and second chances. The ending and writing bumped it up to 4 stars for me- I can see why people liked it, though it wasn’t my favorite.
Short summary: Whitney loves love but no one’s clicking for her because she’s still hung up on the one who got away. When Andy returns to SF after 6 years to film a docuseries featuring Jenn (Chef’s Kiss MC), the two reconnect and sparks fly, but can Whitney trust her not to leave and what will happen when she finishes filming and returns to LA?
Short summary: Whitney loves love but no one’s clicking for her because she’s still hung up on the one who got away. When Andy returns to SF after 6 years to film a docuseries featuring Jenn (Chef’s Kiss MC), the two reconnect and sparks fly, but can Whitney trust her not to leave and what will happen when she finishes filming and returns to LA?
May 1, 2023
Excellent.
I loved Take Two. This is a great addition to the series. This falls into the second chance genre. Great series.
I loved Take Two. This is a great addition to the series. This falls into the second chance genre. Great series.
December 22, 2023
I’m usually a sucker for 2nd chance because if done right, the pining would be absolutely glorious, but done wrong it would collapse like Soufflé cooked improperly. Around the start, I actually had a huge interest in the orthopaedic surgeon, Isabella. Maybe from the fact that she is a redhead and she was compared to the all mighty goddess that is Addison Montgomery from Greys Anatomy. She is also really kind, charismatic and all around lovable and I was really disappointed at the start when she didn’t have much of a relationship with Whitney. The pining and chemistry of Isabella and Whitney was so addictive compared to Andy and Whitney, morose the fact that I absolutely dislike when the character runs away to a whole ass different country because she was scared of marriage. Logical fear, but wow.
Also there was reference of The Good Doctor with Jax calling Isabella the good doctor, which I find amazing.
Though one of the best characters of this book that deserves a damn hell of an honourable mention is Kasey. Like this girl befriend Andy AGAIN after she ran away, no questions asked.The disappointment from Kasey when Whitney asked her to join the Enchanto musical is priceless, SHE CALLED A MUSICAL A CIRCUS PERFORMANCE TOO!
I definitely understand when Whitney and Andy decided to ignore the elephant in the room, but then they get all mad when the other didn’t address it until the end. Andy wasn’t right for running to a whole ass country because she was scared and Whitney was caught up in the love to really consider the future property, but all she knew was that she wanted to spend it with Andy no matter what. While Andy was fearing for Whitney’s future as she had an injured leg and didn’t want to hold her back, which is quite ridiculous as the leg can heal even if they are abroad and she could take up work abroad together. Overall, I think the 2nd chance trope doesn’t fit too well for this book, I think best friends to lovers could fit better as the main trope rather than the former.
Also there was reference of The Good Doctor with Jax calling Isabella the good doctor, which I find amazing.
Though one of the best characters of this book that deserves a damn hell of an honourable mention is Kasey. Like this girl befriend Andy AGAIN after she ran away, no questions asked.The disappointment from Kasey when Whitney asked her to join the Enchanto musical is priceless, SHE CALLED A MUSICAL A CIRCUS PERFORMANCE TOO!
I definitely understand when Whitney and Andy decided to ignore the elephant in the room, but then they get all mad when the other didn’t address it until the end. Andy wasn’t right for running to a whole ass country because she was scared and Whitney was caught up in the love to really consider the future property, but all she knew was that she wanted to spend it with Andy no matter what. While Andy was fearing for Whitney’s future as she had an injured leg and didn’t want to hold her back, which is quite ridiculous as the leg can heal even if they are abroad and she could take up work abroad together. Overall, I think the 2nd chance trope doesn’t fit too well for this book, I think best friends to lovers could fit better as the main trope rather than the former.
November 13, 2022
Excellent, i really enjoyed it!!! I declare myself a Shea Fan, i’ve loved every one of the Gia San Francisco series and everything she’s written. This one is the third from the trilogy, you can read it as a standalone or get the full Gia San Francisco Experience and get to know all the amazing characters by reading the first two. If you haven’t read any of her books, give them a try, you will not be disappointed. Take Two is a second chance romance that starts intense and a bit messy just like love is sometimes, the chemistry between the characters is really good and i really liked the way Shea leads you through all the stages between the two characters. from the first time they loved each other, to the heartbreak, the anger, hope, and finally the acknowledgment of the love that was always there.
Stephanie Shea always creates characters that are so interesting, sexy, intelligent, funny, with the right amount of wit and the kind of people you would want around in life.
She also has an amazing ability to write steamy scenes which is always good🔥..The way she writes is really good, she has a way with words, she knows how to express things in ways that are engaging and beautiful.
If you are looking for something to read that has everything; romance, angst, funny moments, hot scenes, great chemistry, awesome characters, and a warm happy ending, Brace yourselves because Take Two has all of that and more.
Stephanie Shea always creates characters that are so interesting, sexy, intelligent, funny, with the right amount of wit and the kind of people you would want around in life.
She also has an amazing ability to write steamy scenes which is always good🔥..The way she writes is really good, she has a way with words, she knows how to express things in ways that are engaging and beautiful.
If you are looking for something to read that has everything; romance, angst, funny moments, hot scenes, great chemistry, awesome characters, and a warm happy ending, Brace yourselves because Take Two has all of that and more.
January 24, 2023
Loved It!
What a continuation! A Gia San Francisco Romance series is just the right combination of intrigue and second chances. This Book 3 story about Whitney and Andy was an excellent addition. Loved the catch up with Val and Jenn and the family, Landon, Avery ,Whitneys’ Mom and Dad. The storyline was exciting to learn what happen between Whitney and Andy and what was needed to see if they could come back from it. Again I loved it. I have to say that Stephanie Shea has a way of writing that let’s you forget black and white issues. This book is pure Love and despite the storyline, nothing to do with Race. Something we all need!
What a continuation! A Gia San Francisco Romance series is just the right combination of intrigue and second chances. This Book 3 story about Whitney and Andy was an excellent addition. Loved the catch up with Val and Jenn and the family, Landon, Avery ,Whitneys’ Mom and Dad. The storyline was exciting to learn what happen between Whitney and Andy and what was needed to see if they could come back from it. Again I loved it. I have to say that Stephanie Shea has a way of writing that let’s you forget black and white issues. This book is pure Love and despite the storyline, nothing to do with Race. Something we all need!
August 20, 2024
Best book in the series.
Loved avery in the previous book but now we follow whitney dimaano and andy navigating thr their complicated past and working it out in the present.
Its a beautifully written second chance romance.
Loved their dynamics so much, never a dull moment with them.
The interactions with all the characters from the other books were also very fun, i felt attached to them so it connected me more to the book.
Andy was just loveable, i often find myself hating second chance romances because of the shitty reasons of breaking the others heart or their personality. But i liked her.
Whitney was also someone i was interested in knowing since the last book, her emotions when seeing andy or thinking about the past were heartbreaking.
The past memories coming in randomly was what i liked, usually some books start with the whole past being written in one shot but i like small chunks of it written as the present story goes on.
A 5 star read.
Loved avery in the previous book but now we follow whitney dimaano and andy navigating thr their complicated past and working it out in the present.
Its a beautifully written second chance romance.
Loved their dynamics so much, never a dull moment with them.
The interactions with all the characters from the other books were also very fun, i felt attached to them so it connected me more to the book.
Andy was just loveable, i often find myself hating second chance romances because of the shitty reasons of breaking the others heart or their personality. But i liked her.
Whitney was also someone i was interested in knowing since the last book, her emotions when seeing andy or thinking about the past were heartbreaking.
The past memories coming in randomly was what i liked, usually some books start with the whole past being written in one shot but i like small chunks of it written as the present story goes on.
A 5 star read.
November 18, 2022
The Gia series is an affectionate, warm hand outstretched towards you, inviting you into a very cozy and loving family. I loved to hold it. I found myself in there, I fell for each and every character and the brilliant writing of Stephanie Shea.
Take Two is a beautiful story of two loving hearts rediscovering their feelings after years spent apart. The perfect quote to the message behind, which resonated with me so much, is ''Maybe trusting someone is exactly like falling in love. You fall one smile, one kiss, one breath at a time. As quickly or as slowly as feels right for you.''
Loved it.
Take Two is a beautiful story of two loving hearts rediscovering their feelings after years spent apart. The perfect quote to the message behind, which resonated with me so much, is ''Maybe trusting someone is exactly like falling in love. You fall one smile, one kiss, one breath at a time. As quickly or as slowly as feels right for you.''
Loved it.
November 9, 2022
Second Chance
Whitney had grown up knowing her father but not really having one. Now she has a sister and brother and has built her entire business from scratch. When Andy, the woman who broke her six years ago, return to the city, she doesn’t know if she can handle it. Andy is here to do a documentary series on successful women of color and film Jenn at Gia. Can she survive the next month or will they find their way back. A heart warming second Chance romance. Great author.
Whitney had grown up knowing her father but not really having one. Now she has a sister and brother and has built her entire business from scratch. When Andy, the woman who broke her six years ago, return to the city, she doesn’t know if she can handle it. Andy is here to do a documentary series on successful women of color and film Jenn at Gia. Can she survive the next month or will they find their way back. A heart warming second Chance romance. Great author.
December 1, 2022
Aannnggst!
Honestly took me forever to read this book, but that's only because I didn't want the Gia series to end. I loved this journey of Whit and Andy. The angst was real though. Second chance trope but with a loveable pup and 'aunt' duties. Also loved the musical references. I couldn't get enough of all the characters and it was great to hear where Jenn and Val are. A fantastic series and I'm definitely sad it's over.
Honestly took me forever to read this book, but that's only because I didn't want the Gia series to end. I loved this journey of Whit and Andy. The angst was real though. Second chance trope but with a loveable pup and 'aunt' duties. Also loved the musical references. I couldn't get enough of all the characters and it was great to hear where Jenn and Val are. A fantastic series and I'm definitely sad it's over.
October 30, 2022
Take Two is the amazing third book in the Gia series. I love second chance romances and this one did not disappoint! Whitney and Andy are beautiful characters who deserve every happy ending! The story was well thought out, and I loved how the side story (and series end?) circled back to Jenn. Wonderful book, definitely recommend.
November 18, 2022
I love the second chance trope and Whitney and Andy's story was one of the best I've read. As other reviewers have noted, this book is steamy! I can't wait for more from Stephanie Shea.
December 9, 2022
"I still believe in your eyes, there's no choice, I belong to your life, because I live to love you someday"
I'm a sucker for second chance stories because I can vicariously live through characters what I know I'd never be able to do given the opportunity. Y'all, I hold onto grudges like a boa constrictor squeeze its prey, haha. Even if things ended amicably!
Jokes apart, as usual Stephanie did such a great job.
Both MC are lovely and even though I was bit pissed at Andy when learning some stuff I was still rooting for them to end together. Also, I love that we don't have a villain besides LIFE and things aren't overly dramatic, I mean, the "will they won't they" bit is there, but isn't stressful. I actually found it quite chill, everything considered, and I loved it for this.
It was great to meet some old friends and I'd pleased to meet them all again.
I'm a sucker for second chance stories because I can vicariously live through characters what I know I'd never be able to do given the opportunity. Y'all, I hold onto grudges like a boa constrictor squeeze its prey, haha. Even if things ended amicably!
Jokes apart, as usual Stephanie did such a great job.
Both MC are lovely and even though I was bit pissed at Andy when learning some stuff I was still rooting for them to end together. Also, I love that we don't have a villain besides LIFE and things aren't overly dramatic, I mean, the "will they won't they" bit is there, but isn't stressful. I actually found it quite chill, everything considered, and I loved it for this.
It was great to meet some old friends and I'd pleased to meet them all again.
January 13, 2025
I loved this book!
I’m not always a fan of a second chance romance, I find them not very believable like if it didn’t work the first time why work the second time but I was rooting for Whit and Andy from the start, there was something so likable and genuine about Andy.
I liked how the story evolved and didn’t take forever for the good bits to unfold! And not much angst raised the bar that bit more, I might be on my own, but I don’t love the angst parts of books!
I’ve read everything this author has written and I love it all! I can’t wait for the next!
I’m not always a fan of a second chance romance, I find them not very believable like if it didn’t work the first time why work the second time but I was rooting for Whit and Andy from the start, there was something so likable and genuine about Andy.
I liked how the story evolved and didn’t take forever for the good bits to unfold! And not much angst raised the bar that bit more, I might be on my own, but I don’t love the angst parts of books!
I’ve read everything this author has written and I love it all! I can’t wait for the next!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
April 14, 2023
Wonderful read. The writing is very strong and the story didn't drag. The emotions between the MCs are described in a way that makes you feel as if you're feeling the anguish of their heartbreak. Sublime lovemaking scenes that were classy and tasteful. Highly recommended.
April 24, 2023
honestly 5 stars but not a memorable 5 stars
shortish read!
shortish read!
June 4, 2023
maybe i cry a bit…
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September 14, 20234.5
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