Alicia Thompson's Never Been Shipped is a delightful exploration of second chances, both in love and in life, set against the vibrant backdrop of a band reunion on a themed cruise. This novel deftly combines the excitement of rekindled friendships with the complexities of past mistakes, creating a narrative that resonates with anyone who has ever wondered about the road not taken.

At the heart of the story is Micah, a character whose relationship with music is as intricate as her personal life. As a teenager, Micah was thrust into the limelight when her band gained fame through a popular TV show. However, the pressures of fame and the dynamics within the band led to an early breakup, leaving Micah with unresolved feelings and a complicated relationship with her past. Now, over a decade later, the band is reuniting for a performance on a cruise, and Micah is determined not to repeat her past mistakes. Her resolve to maintain her identity and guard her heart is a central theme that Thompson explores with sensitivity and depth.

John, Micah's former bandmate and best friend, is another compelling character whose journey is equally engaging. Unlike Micah, John has always been more reserved, often taking a backseat both in music and in his personal life. His unrequited feelings for Micah and his regret over not taking action in the past add layers to his character. The cruise offers him a second chance to not only reconnect with music but also to express his feelings for Micah. Thompson skillfully portrays John's internal struggle and growth, making him a relatable and endearing character.

The chemistry between Micah and John is palpable from the moment they reunite. Thompson excels at building tension and anticipation, allowing their relationship to develop organically over the course of the cruise. The confined setting of the ship serves as a metaphor for the pressure cooker environment that forces both characters to confront their feelings and past decisions. As the band navigates old tensions and new dynamics, Micah and John must decide if their relationship is destined to be more than a fleeting romance.

One of the standout aspects of Never Been Shipped is Thompson's ability to weave music into the narrative. Music is not just a backdrop but a character in its own right, influencing the plot and the characters' emotions. The author captures the magic of live performances and the camaraderie of band life with authenticity, making readers feel as though they are part of the audience. This musical element adds a layer of richness to the story, enhancing the emotional impact of the characters' journeys.

Thompson's writing is both engaging and evocative, drawing readers into the world of the band and the complexities of their relationships. Her portrayal of the characters' internal struggles and growth is nuanced and realistic, making their journeys all the more compelling. The themes of second chances, self-discovery, and the power of music are explored with depth and sensitivity, leaving a lasting impression on the reader.

In comparison to other romance novels set in the world of music, such as Daisy Jones & The Six by Taylor Jenkins Reid, Never Been Shipped offers a more intimate and personal exploration of its characters. While Reid's novel focuses on the rise and fall of a fictional band, Thompson's story delves into the personal lives and relationships of its characters, offering a more character-driven narrative. Both novels, however, share a love for music and its transformative power, making them appealing to fans of the genre.

Overall, Never Been Shipped is a captivating and heartwarming romance that will resonate with readers who appreciate stories of love, friendship, and second chances. Alicia Thompson has crafted a narrative that is both entertaining and thought-provoking, leaving readers with a sense of hope and the reminder that it's never too late to pursue one's dreams and desires. Whether you're a fan of romance, music, or simply a well-told story, this novel is sure to strike a chord.