In this sweeping second chance romance from debut author Myah Ariel, the unexpected spark of two former flames may force them to choose between their dreams and each other.
Kaliya Wilson has paid her dues. But all the years behind the reception desk at a flashy film studio have only pushed her movie-making dreams further out of reach. That is, until a surprise reunion presents an opportunity that could make her career, or break her heart…a second time.
It’s been seven years since Kaliya’s whirlwind college romance with Danny Prescott went up in flames. While her passions have stalled, his career is taking off. So when the hot shot director reappears to offer her a job on his next production, it’s a shock to the system. Working with Danny may recapture the intensity of their film school days, but trusting him again won’t come as easily.
As the pair allows themselves the openness and vulnerability to entrust their deepest truths to each other, the possibility of a true connection draws ever closer. But when Hollywood politics and scandal threaten to sink the production and her career, Kaliya may have to risk everything to do what’s right—even if it means letting go of the second chance love of a lifetime.
A second chance romance and one that read like a Hollywood movie script. I was invested into Kaliya’s life right away, a likeable MC who is tired of paying her dues behind a reception desk at a film studio. She was always passionate about movies and production, but somehow years have gone by since she’s really pursued anything more than clocking in and sitting at a desk. When Danny Prescott not only reappears in her life seven years since their college romance ended but also offers her a job on his next movie, she wonders if life is finally about to change for her. While the intensity of their chemistry is still there, they now have careers to think about, and Danny is not single. Kaliya doesn’t want anything to get in the way of her lucky break, but Hollywood politics still come into play, threatening her career and her reputation.
There are so many layers that goes into this novel – racism, sexism, workplace romances and love triangles, Hollywood scandals and politics. Kaliya was easy to root for, someone who has let life wear her down a bit, understandably giving her reasons to distrust a lot of people, but still someone with a positive outlook on life and tries to get by on doing the right thing. Watching the relationship between her and Danny evolve through the pages provided a thoughtful commentary of what it means to try again with so many odds stacked against them. Some of the main themes were personal growth and forgiveness, and the storyline flowed smoothly from chapter to chapter. A great one for your 2025 reading list!
