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A second chance to realise her dreams…

A classically trained pianist, Steph works as a recording engineer for a small studio when she’s offered the job of a lifetime – travel to the Italian Riviera to help world-famous band, Royalty, record their reunion album after a decades-long hiatus.

Steph could definitely do with the distraction. Her boyfriend – who also happens to be her boss – is increasingly unreliable and erratic, and she’s awaiting news from her doctor after a recent biopsy. So an all-expenses-paid trip to Italy is the perfect escape.

What she doesn’t expect is an instant connection with Rob, the son of Royalty’s lead singer. With her career – and her heart – at a crossroads, what path will Steph follow?

A wonderfully escapist romance for fans of Sue Moorcoft, Rosanna Ley and Erica James.

288 pages, Kindle Edition

First published March 2, 2023

152 people are currently reading
224 people want to read

About the author

T.A. Williams

46 books585 followers
Firstly, my name isn't T A. It's Trevor. I write under the androgynous name T A Williams because 65% of books are read by women. In my first book, one of the (female) characters suggests the imbalance is due to the fact that men spend too much time getting drunk and watching football. I couldn't possibly comment. Ask my wife...
I've written all sorts: thrillers, historical novels, short stories and now I'm enjoying myself hugely Cozy Mysteries. I lived and worked in Italy for a number of years, married an Italian, and fell in love with the country. I set almost all my books in Italy and I hope that my love from the country shines through my work.
I‘ve lived all over Europe, but now I live in a little village in sleepy Devon, tucked away in south west England. I love the place. That’s why you’ll find leafy lanes and thatched cottages in most of my books. Oh, yes, and a black Labrador.
I've been writing since I was 14 and that is well over half a century ago. I'm now approaching 1 million books sold worldwide and I find it wonderful that people as far away as India and New Zealand are reading and enjoying my work. Thank you to everybody who reads my stuff.

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5 stars
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews
Profile Image for Javier.
1,173 reviews300 followers
March 2, 2023
After straying into the cozy mystery genre (quite successfully, imo), T.A. Williams is back to his (and mine) beloved Italian romances, bringing us this time to the Italian Riviera and the world of music.

Steph works as a recording engineer along her boyfriend (who also happens to be her boss). When they get the job of a lifetime, producing the reunion album of a beloved rock band, Royalty, they travel to Italy where she’ll find both her personal and professional lives turned upside down.

Once again the author manages to easily transport the reader to the Italian coast. I could feel myself bathing on the beach with Steph, throwing a stick to Waldorf or sitting around that terrace table feasting on those delicious sounding meals. OMG! The food descriptions! My mouth was watering the whole time!

I loved how normal all the characters felt. Some of them were huge stars but they were so down to earth, making Steph feel immediately at home. I found her to be pretty likeable. She knew what she needed and wanted when it came to her relationship and she was not afraid to voice her feels and stand her ground. Later, when faced with a big dilemma, I loved how they didn’t try to force the other one to change their life, but both were willing to make concessions. The author made it really easy to root for her.

The story dealt with some heavy issues like grief, drug abuse or the perils of fame, and how easily it can drown you out, giving the story more depth than your typical romance.

If you’ve read the author’s previous work, you’ll know by now that the one constant element throughout his books is a chocolate labrador, and of course there’s one here too! Waldorf, such a cheeky and gorgeous guy!

Another heartwarming and lovely romance with fantastic characterization and a lovely setting. Another winner for T.A. Williams.

Thanks to NetGalley and Canelo for providing an eARC in exchange for an honest review.
Profile Image for Kathryn.
128 reviews15 followers
March 5, 2023
**Blurb:**

A second chance to realise her dreams…
A classically trained pianist, Steph works as a recording engineer for a small studio when she’s offered the job of a lifetime – travel to the Italian Riviera to help world-famous band, Royalty, record their reunion album after a decades-long hiatus.
Steph could definitely do with the distraction. Her boyfriend – who also happens to be her boss – is increasingly unreliable and erratic, and she’s awaiting news from her doctor after a recent biopsy. So an all-expenses-paid trip to Italy is the perfect escape.
What she doesn’t expect is an instant connection with Rob, the son of Royalty’s lead singer. With her career – and her heart – at a crossroads, what path will Steph follow?

**Thoughts:**

This was a fantastic book. Once I got into it, I could not put it down. I think that this is a book that I can see myself getting the physical copy so that way I can annotate it. I enjoyed almost every single minute of reading this. I found myself escaping to another world though Steph’s POV. I think that this was a fantastic romance and is what I needed to kind of get out of the semi reading slump that I was in during February. To the point to where I was reading but maybe it would be like 30 pages and that would be it. But this really sucked me in to the point to where I did not want to put this book down. I wanted to know what was going to happen with Steph and Rob. I wanted to know if she was going to be able to follow her dreams that she always wanted. I wanted Steph to live her life the way that she saw fit and not being brought down by another person.
I do think that everything that happened in this book happened naturally. Nothing really felt forced. The ultimatum that was given to Ethan felt natural based on what is learned about the relationship between Steph and Ethan. I do liked the fact that they were able to remain friends and coworkers after everything that had happened between the two. I will mention that I was not the biggest fan of Ethans when he was first introduced just because of the fact that he was involved with drugs and alcohol. It did seem like he cared more about his friendships than what he had going on with Steph. But I do think that things did start to turn around for Ethan to the point to where I did like him, when he wasn’t involved with the drugs and alcohol.
The writing of this was great. I loved how the author brought the reader in. I think that the writing was part of the reason why I adored this read. I think that the writing style was one of my favorite parts of the whole read. Because if your writing style can pull me in, as a reader, then there is a good chance that I will be raving about your book for awhile. I think that if you are looking for a book with a great writing style, a great romance, where things flow naturally, and seems to be as realistic as possible, then this is the book for you.
I do see this being on my favorite books of the year list. Because that is how much I enjoyed this read. I do think that if you are looking for something that makes you escape and can be read somewhat fast then I would recommend this read. I do think that it is wonderful and think that others will be able to enjoy the works of TA Williams.
Profile Image for Emma Usher.
37 reviews
Read
May 16, 2025
Great book, really good storyline and interesting characters. I enjoyed thos book.
Profile Image for Alessia Doni.
162 reviews6 followers
February 17, 2023

Never too late is a romance that from the beginning is able to transport us from the gray and chaotic London to the sunny and quiet Lerici.
Right away the author managed very well to describe the sights, smells,tastes and sounds of the Ligurian Coast managing effortlessly to transport me inside the book.
One of the features that I liked most about this book is the fact that it is much more than a music romance: in fact, the first part of the book focuses on the path taken by the members of the now-disbanded band to start talking to each other again, heal open wounds, make peace with the ghosts of the past, and start living again by deriving joy from what they were born to do: coming back to the scenes with their music.
Thanks to the author's ability to characterize the characters, It was wonderful to read about their feelings and fears and how each of them found his way back to his love for music. The second part, on the other hand, is more focused on the main characters,Steph and Robert:Their journey is full of ups and downs and very realistic which is why you can't help but root for them even when they are separated by an ocean. An Honorable mention, on the other hand, goes to the Bailey family:From the first meeting you will become attached to them and soon you will find yourself with them sharing a breakfast on the terrace and listening to old stories about the band!
✨ I had never read anything by the author which is why this read surprised me! The writing is smooth, the descriptions are very accurate and real, all characters have a solid background and are well developed . Plus you will find themes such as drugs abuse, sense of loss, grief and the negative side of fame treated in a very delicate and realistic way within an all-Italian setting. And oh, you will fall in love with Waldorf the labrador!✨
Profile Image for Karen.
Author 41 books67 followers
March 15, 2023
I have read a few books by T. A. Williams and always enjoyed them, so I was looking forward to reading his latest romance novel – Never Too Late.
Steph is 30 years old and works as a recording engineer, employed by her musician boyfriend Ethan. She is thrilled to be given the chance to go to Italy to work with the award-winning band Royalty, as they record their comeback album.
They stay in accommodation above the recording studio and hang out with the band, who are now in their fifties and sixties, including the lead singer Keith Bailey and his wife of thirty years, Faye.
Sometimes, novels which feature famous (fictional) bands can be a bit cliched, but this isn’t the case at all here. I was fascinated by the group’s dynamics straight away and loved how they were all older now, with wives, and it was really interesting to see how different each band member was. I liked the idea that Steph had harboured a secret crush on Ben, but in real life, he didn’t match up to her expectations.
Ethan really is a bit of a waste of space and right from the start, I felt Steph could do much better. So it was interesting to see that relationship run its course and a new one begin…
The Italian setting is a beautiful one with Keith’s luxury villa and golden beaches. I also enjoyed visiting Lerici with its interesting shops and impressive ice cream parlours. (No guilt feelings when I’m only eating the ice cream in my mind!)
As fans of T. A. Williams (Me! Me!) will know, a black Labrador usually pops up in his books – and this is no exception. Meet Waldorf! A fan of the sea and very likely to shake the water all over you.
Overall, I thought this was a fabulous book. I liked Steph straight away and loved all the people she meets in Italy. It’s a romance, but so much more besides and I found it interesting throughout and a really great read.
Profile Image for Darcy  DecantingBooks.
488 reviews14 followers
January 27, 2024
3.5 rounded up.

Steph is stuck in a rut as a London production engineer (and also a talented pianist) trying to make it work with her jerk boyfriend (and boss) Ethan. They get a career-making call to produce a reunion album in Italy for a world-famous band, and off they go to a gorgeous setting full of interesting people.

Steph dives right in and the bandmates quickly uncover her production skill—and also quickly realize her piano style fits in perfectly with their music. Steph also notices Rob, the band leader’s super-hot son, who mostly secludes himself in a neighboring home and is a renowned musician in his own right.

Rob’s never quite fit in with some of his family, especially his creepy bully of an older brother, so it takes a while to warm up to him. Really, the story is more about Steph’s personal and professional growth than it is about their relationship, though the two of them pick up more attention as the book goes on.

It was a nice, easy read with a lovely setting, mostly nice people (almost too nice at times), and good story. Not riveting but interesting enough to keep my attention and enjoy it. I would have liked a little more depth with the characters, as many were fairly one-dimensional, but it also made the story low-stress and easy to read.

Rating: 3.5
Steam: None
Themes and Tropes: Escapist, Musician/Rock Star, Slow Burn, Italy
Pair With: Italian Wine

1,150 reviews2 followers
March 27, 2023
T.A. Williams does a nearly irresistible job of describing the delights of Italy. This time, the story takes place on the Italian Riviera at the home of a world famous rock star. Steph is hired to help get a new recording studio at the musician's Italian summer home up and running. Keith Bailey, lead singer of the legendary band Royalty, is hoping to convince the two other surviving members of the band to get back together, finish a new album in his recording studio and begin touring again. Although sound engineer Steph is in the throes of breaking up with boyfriend and record producer Ethan, she is thrilled to be working with her high school idols. The setting is idyllic, with the Bay of the Poets below, fantastic (and fabulously described) meals on the terrace of the villa, state-of-the-art recording equipment, hill towns and quaint villages to explore and a very appealing violinist in the house across the headlands. Health, fame and what makes a life a happy one are all themes of the story.
Profile Image for Pam Robertson.
1,443 reviews9 followers
May 11, 2023
We are off to the beautiful Italian Riviera for this escapist romance by TA Williams. I always enjoy his books and this one is no exception. Steph is at a bit of a crossroads in her life with some big decisions to make in her personal life. There is a certain glamour about her assignment in Italy, but can she take her opportunities and trust her first impressions? She also has some health concerns on her mind.

The setting with its gorgeous scenery, delicious food and all the sights and colours of the coast are a big part of the appeal of the book. I waited patiently for a hopeful Labrador to appear and Waldorf did not disappoint. He was as exuberant and affectionate as I’d expect. With a large cast of characters and a tantalising ‘will they,won’t they?’ set up, this makes for an ideal holiday read.

In short: if music be the food of love…
Thanks to the publisher for a copy of the book
595 reviews9 followers
March 7, 2023
I always enjoy books by T A Williams and this didn’t disappoint. Great characters that were supportive, and those that weren’t had their reasons. The main story was about Steph who starts to work with the famous group Royalty who are hoping to reunite. The difference between London and Italy was well described and I loved how I could imagine being in Italy. The main character Steph was very confident but also very sympathetic and never forgot where she was from. This was a great read that I read quite quickly and thought it covered a variety of topics with a romantic theme throughout, especially between Steph and Rob, who is the son of lead singer Royalty.
Profile Image for Catarina Geirinhas.
112 reviews
March 21, 2023
Thank you to Netgalley, Canelo and T.A. Williams for this ARC!

This was such a delightful read! Steph is given the opportunity to go to Italy to work with an award-winning band while they record their comeback album after, years before, tragedy had strike. It was like having Queen descend on an Italian villa to record a new album! Williams transports us to Italy by the sensory descriptions we get to read and immerse ourselves in. I loved the lovely Labrador who takes centre stage in this story! I have always loved romance stories that start with the divine intervention of a dog! It pegs for a great and emotional read most of the time!
69 reviews1 follower
March 12, 2023
Delightful book

And once again, this author has provided his readers with a wonderful story, mostly set in a beautiful Italian town, I’m sure I’m not the only reader to wish they could be transported to the town while reading the book. It’s always interesting to read about the struggles of fame, but I certainly wanted to cheer Stephanie on as she met these challenges. Needless to say, as I do with all of this author’s books, the moment I started reading I couldn’t stop until I finished it. This is the first of the new series and I look forward to more.
Profile Image for Avalon.
618 reviews3 followers
June 3, 2023
Heartwarming romance

Italy. A place where dreams can come true. Steph and her boyfriend fly to Italy to work with a band for their comeback win and because one of the members has recently passed away Steph offers to play the keyboard in their rehearsals and she does such a great job they offer her a full-time position,,however she soon splits with her boyfriend as he refuses to grow up. She loves her daily walks especially when a lovely black Labrador joins her and his master is quite cute too .....
Profile Image for Vashti Stubbs.
3 reviews
August 29, 2024
Loved this book! Really well written with lots of plot to keep you engaged. I easily fell in love with most of the characters, and when I finish it felt like losing some friends, but also being really happy for them 😅

The only critique I have is that I wish Steph had more turmoil over the juxtaposition of her love interest’s perceived persona and attitude towards relationships. Especially after it was challenged by her friend. I struggled with how she kept insisting he was a play boy, and, although she thought about the contradiction her friend shared, it wasn’t until very late in the book where she let those words fight back against her negative perception.

But still, overall it was a wonderful book, and I was sad to have finished it!
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
Profile Image for Rosemary.
122 reviews
June 26, 2023
An engaging simple read, a non toxic story. Again TA Williams has a believable set of characters with the story and jobs that aren't too far fetched. In the two that I've read so far TA Williams likes to have the main female character fall in love with the man with the dog, usually a young dog who gets upto a little bit of mischief.
Profile Image for Kel.
597 reviews16 followers
April 16, 2023
As soon as we met Stef, I just knew I'd love her and really enjoyed getting to know her and her back story. A story that contains many triggers, yet it is written with sensitivity and the result is an amazing selection of characters who we get to know throughout this wonderful stay in Italy.
12 reviews
May 12, 2023
Pure happiness

My favourite Author of Romance novels.I only have to read the first page and I'm hooked.wonderful characters,wonderful dog.Love reading about Italy and a place I will one day get to visit,God willing.
542 reviews1 follower
August 11, 2023
Entertaining look at fame

There was a lot of repetition in the love story in this book. The author seemed a bit removed. That said, how often do you get a view of the inside of a legendary band? Good story.
Profile Image for Janet Rabe-Meyer.
66 reviews6 followers
June 21, 2024
Music, Italy, and Love!

I am a musician and I love Italy. How lovely to find a story that combines the two things. Stephanie follows her passion, is true to herself, and great things happen!
25 reviews
August 20, 2025
Loved it - great read

Loved plot and setting but characters complex and compelling too.
Main character believable but interesting journey to.find what really she wants out of her life
Profile Image for fiona knox.
17 reviews
March 23, 2023
Never too late

Captivating story with heartwarming romance. Couldn't put it down and loved the characters. One of your best T.A.Williams!! And set in Italy.
Profile Image for Angela Peixoto.
883 reviews22 followers
April 19, 2023
Another great romance by the author that kept me on tenterhooks all the way to the end
156 reviews
June 27, 2023
Love this author and this latest book was amazing. I was instantly captured by the characters and storyline and didn't want the book to finish.
2 reviews
January 28, 2024
It was very slow. A lot of reading about life within a band about their creating music and albums. A little bit of story outside that aspect.
3 reviews
June 24, 2024
Wonderful

Very good read, loved the whole book! Good drama and romance.
I love to read romance in Italy, because I have been there.
61 reviews
August 26, 2024
A nice pleasant read with enjoyable characters and sunny locations that made you feel like you were on holiday.
14 reviews
September 7, 2024
Super book. Try it for/ yourself.

Loved this book. Great descriptions of places I'd/ love to see but know I can't. The story will have to continue and I must find the next book .
73 reviews
October 29, 2024
"Never To Late" a brilliant read from TA Williams set iin the music industry it was enlightening and engrossing, I really enjoyed it
248 reviews
April 22, 2025
loved this story including the dog Wardolf. loved the whole story of the band and all its characters. I do hope there us a sequel to this book. I would definitely read it.
Displaying 1 - 30 of 46 reviews

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