Book Review: Never Been Shipped by Alicia Thompson
When I first stumbled across Never Been Shipped, I felt a spark of excitement—music, nostalgia, and the promise of a friends-to-lovers second chance romance? Count me in! Thanks to NetGalley, the incredibly talented Alicia Thompson, and the wonderful folks at Berkley Publishing Group, I was lucky enough to dive into this eARC, and let me tell you, it was a joyride from start to finish.
Set against the backdrop of a themed cruise, the story follows Micah, a musician navigating the choppy waters of her past as her once-famous band reunites. I found myself instantly drawn into Micah’s world—her complex relationship with music mirrors the ups and downs of her emotional life. Enter John, her former best friend and bandmate, a character seemingly steady yet yearning for more than just friendship. The dynamic between them was electric, sparking intrigue and making the pages fly by. Thompson crafts their connection beautifully; you can feel the chemistry radiating off the pages, reminding us of those moments when “what if” hangs tantalizingly in the air.
What struck me was Thompson’s skillful blend of humor and heart. The dialogues were often witty but layered with vulnerability, making each interaction significant and emotionally charged. I’d find myself chuckling one moment and holding my breath the next, hoping Micah and John would confront their feelings before it was too late. The pacing felt perfect—there was a nice ebb and flow to the story that kept me engaged without feeling rushed.
The ship itself serves as a marvelous metaphor for their relationship: confined yet full of possibility. With each passing day on the cruise, both Micah and John are not only revisiting their musical roots but also unraveling the complexities of their past. I appreciated how Thompson doesn’t just tie everything up nicely; instead, she allows the lingering question of their future to resonate, inviting readers to ponder the nuances of love and timing.
One particular line that resonated with me was a moment when Micah reflects, “Sometimes, it’s not just about where you’re going, but who you’re with.” It encapsulates the essence of the story perfectly, reminding us of the connections we forge along our journeys.
In closing, Never Been Shipped is not just a romantic tale; it’s an exploration of friendship, regret, and the hope that comes with second chances. Alicia Thompson has a way of tugging at your heartstrings while making you chuckle, and it’s safe to say I’ll be eagerly awaiting her future works. If you adore contemporary romance, indulge in tales of nostalgia, or simply relish stories about rekindled love, mark your calendars for its release on June 10, 2025! You won’t want to miss out on this cruise of emotions. 🌊💕