Wow wow wow…. Only After We Met is the story of Ginger & Rhys. They meet by chance one night in Paris after Ginger jumps on a plane after her break-up. While very much out of character for her, this one night trip sparks a relationship that spans years. I don’t want to say more, as I don’t want to ruin the magic of this book.

Told in alternating POV’s of the two main characters, the story has the unique twist of also being told in alternating emails. I loved this. There’s just something about reading emails between people that feels so much more personal. I felt like a fly on the wall of a true relationship.

Ginger & Rhys’s story is beautiful, sometimes tumultuous, and even gritty at times, but it’s one of the most real and lovely stories I’ve ever read. I truly couldn’t get enough and just devoured this book at a certain point.

I’ll be thinking about this one for quite some time and I think Only After We Met will be one of my very favorites that I’ll recommend to everyone. I would give this absolutely gorgeous book higher than 5 stars if I could.

Thank you so much NetGalley & Sourcebooks Casablanca for gifting me an ARC in exchange for my honest review!

Thanks to NetGalley and Sourcebooks Casablanca for this advance readers copy, in exchange for an honest review. Only After We Met is, on its surface, a romance book but, in my opinion, it is really so much more. This absolutely fantastic book begins with a chance encounter between our main characters, Rhys and Ginger, when they meet one night in Paris and follows them together over the course of the next 4-5 years or so.

I loved these characters and enjoyed how much time we spent with them— the length of this book and the quality of the writing made them both very real to me and I cared very much about both their romance and their individual journeys and growth. The book was written in a typical prose style but, also in a series of many back and forth emails between the two characters. I think this was a great choice because, instead of trying to force the characters to share or show who they were through just dialogue or actions, the email format allowed them to be more vulnerable with each other; I found this to be believable because I think it’s sometimes easier to be vulnerable and open when you have the time to consider your words and take your time responding to someone, especially when it’s over a screen. When the characters did come together in person or even when we read about them individually, in prose, it felt believable to me and I couldn’t stop turning the pages to see what would happen next.

Another aspect of this book that I enjoyed was the discussion around real, difficult topics and emotions— although difficult, the main characters discussed (sometimes at push of one or the other) things like grief, unfounded dreams, what it means to live and love, self harm, among other things. These characters draw out the best in each other, while still fumbling and making mistakes along the way, making this feel very real and underscoring why their relationship— the romantic and platonic part of it— work so well.

This story kept me turning the pages until the very end and I was sad to have to leave them and their world behind. I know this is one that I’ll revisit in the future and I am definitely looking forward to reading this authors other books soon. I would highly recommend this book to romance readers, especially if you enjoy a more substantial, character driven, sensitive story— this one is for you. I can’t wait to see what this author comes out with next and can’t wait for others to get to read this book once it’s out!

I was given this book for an honest review-
Gingers father wants her to take over the family business which she doesn’t want. When her boyfriend calls and ends their relationship she hops a plane and ends up meeting Rhyes and then begins the sweet relationship of texting each other every night, As the feelings get deeper- can two very different people connect for a lifetime. You won’t want to miss this heartwarming book!

Predictable Ginger craves so much more than the life her family has laid out for her. Rhys only knows how to live on the move, taking opportunities when they come and traveling the world. One night as strangers together in a Paris apartment; a lifetime as friends, lovers and heartbreakers. In order to chase their dreams they might have to leave one another behind. But, just as the moon continues to rise, they continue to shine for each other through the dark. A lyrical, raw story about deeply flawed characters finding themselves and each other.

The story sounded so good hence why I requested it, unfortunately this was just not it. It did not work for me at all. I was bored throughout, the relationship wasn't believable, I felt no connection between the characters. I just couldn't continue reading. I had to DNF.

I felt like I was only really invested once I was only half way through the book. I don't know just nothing about it particularly gripped me. And it was clear that the author hadn't done much research on the UK because the geography didn't make sense and the language was completely American. All in all a pleasant read.

(Review also on goodreads and storygraph)

Only After We Met is a beautifully introspective story about love and self-discovery. A unique aspect of the book is that a majority of it unfolds through emails between the main characters, Ginger and Rhys. These exchanges feel deeply personal, offering an intimate glimpse into their fears, hopes, and vulnerabilities. It’s a refreshing narrative choice that adds depth to their connection.

At its core, the book isn’t just a romance—it’s a journey of self-discovery. Both Ginger and Rhys are dealing with their own struggles and learning to navigate life in their own way. Watching them grow as individuals while slowly finding their way to each other is both heartwarming and inspiring.

If you’re looking for a thoughtful, unconventional romance that focuses on personal growth as much as love, this is a story worth picking up.

Thank you to NetGalley and Sourcebooks for an advance reader’s copy in exchange for a honest review.

Deeply moving and emotional. This is the first book I have read by Alice Kellen and I must say that the first sentence had me hooked. This is the type of book that you want to savor by not reading too fast and yet devour in a sitting at the same time. The story is well paced and written beautifully.

Oh ny goodness! I just loved this story! Ginger and Ryhs partake in a slow burn love story,but also stories of personal growth. A good portion of this is written via emails. Which usually would bother me but the emails were so heartfelt and realistic I didn't mind. Read this one in two days. A wonderful intensely romantic in the best way story. "Hey Ginger Snap! " If you know, you know. Thank you NetGalley for thr chance to read this ARC. All opinions are my own.

*After We Met* by Alice Kellen is an engaging continuation of a romance that keeps you hooked from start to finish. Kellen's writing style is easy to connect with, and she excels at exploring the emotional complexities of her characters. The relationship at the heart of the story is portrayed with depth and authenticity, making it easy to invest in the characters' journey.

What stands out in this book is how it blends vulnerability and strength. The protagonist is relatable and multi-dimensional—her personal growth throughout the story feels both realistic and heartwarming. The love interest, with his quiet intensity, complements her well, and their dynamic feels raw and genuine. Kellen captures the highs and lows of their relationship in a way that feels real, making the emotional stakes feel truly impactful.

The pacing is well-balanced, with tender moments for reflection and enough drama to keep the plot moving forward. The chemistry between the characters is undeniable, and while some parts of the story might be predictable for fans of contemporary romance, Kellen adds enough emotional depth and unexpected twists to keep it fresh.

That said, the book does have its frustrating moments. There are times when both characters make choices that introduce conflict, and these moments can feel repetitive or drawn out. However, these instances don’t diminish the overall enjoyment of the book, and the resolution ultimately feels satisfying and earned.

For fans of heartfelt, character-driven romance, *After We Met* is definitely worth reading. It's an emotional rollercoaster that explores love, trust, and personal growth, with Kellen once again proving her ability to craft a story that resonates long after the final page.

"Only After We Met" by Alice Kellen is a beautifully slow-burn romance about love, healing, and personal growth. The story follows two characters with emotional baggage who find each other at just the right time. Kellen's writing is heartfelt and real, making their journey of self-discovery and connection feel deeply authentic. While the plot may feel predictable for some, it's a perfect pick for fans of character-driven romance. If you love stories about love that takes time and patience, this one’s for you! #BookReview #AliceKellen #ContemporaryRomance #SlowBurnRomance

Loved. Loved. It was sweet. It was passionate. It was ANGSTY. I wanted Rhys and Ginger to figure it out already!! But I’m so glad they took their time because it was so good.

London, Paris, yes, please. I enjoy books taking places in these spots. When they have interesting characters and a great story, I am hooked! Bravo to Kellen for creating a wonderful book that held my attention and hoping for more. Thanks to NetGalley for the ARC.

Loved ginger snap and Rhys…sooo out of character but also refreshing !….the adventures of ginger were the best still Rhys working and staying in a place too long ?!! Yupppp!!

Great book. Believable characters and engaging plot. The characters are fleshed out and make you root for them. I would read another book by this author.