Twice in a Lifetime

By: Briana J Newstead

Narrated by: Connor Swindells, Shalom Brune-Franklin

Narrated by Connor Swindells (Sex Education) and Shalom Brune-Franklin (Baby Reindeer) comes a heart-wrenching story of love and loss from debut author, Briana J Newstead.

Two hearts scarred by loss. One unexpected love that could heal them both.

Jo Savvides hasn't touched a guitar since the tragic accident five years ago that left her reeling with survivor's guilt.

Caleb Evans carries a heartbreak so deep he's vowed never to fall in love again.

When fate brings them together on a world concert tour, neither is prepared for what follows.

Caleb runs a tight ship as the workaholic tour manager. There isn't room in his life—or his business—for Jo's impulsive nature. But when their guitarist drops out mid-tour and Jo is the only one who can keep the rhythm of the band, an unexpected bond is forged.

With Caleb's steady support, Jo slowly rediscovers her talent and begins to feel alive for the first time in years. Yet while Caleb can start to hear the music of his heart, he doesn't want to listen—he knows how this song ends.

As these two begin to fall for each other, they must decide whether they're brave enough to accept their connection. Because allowing someone in means letting go of the past.

Set against the backdrop of a European summer, Twice in a Lifetime is a deeply moving testament to the healing power of love and music, and the courage it takes to choose life after loss.

©2025 Briana J Newstead (P)2025 Audible Ltd.

Entertaining romcom

Though romcoms are generally formulaic, and this is no exception, the characters and story arc are creative and engaging. Some things like the way Jo and Caleb trauma bonded, seem far-fetched. However, I’ve known of real life people who came together in even more unlikely ways … so can suspend my disbelief.

There were two dangling threads that I wish had been resolved. One was with Jo’s mom and how their relationship might’ve been changed by how the story ended. They’re also seem to be something unfinished about Jo’s relationship with her brother. Maybe I missed something, but I didn’t understand the basis for the estrangement and leaving that unresolved felt like a missed creative opportunity. Maybe there is meant to be a prequel or a sequel that will tie up some of those loose ends.

So much potential

I loved the first two thirds of this book. The character development was great, and the narrators were excellent. But I felt like the story kind of started dragging on and on for a while and I didn’t like the way the story ultimately concluded. I realize that’s vague, but I don’t want to spoil it for anyone in a review. I felt like this book was almost a great one.

Cute Story

Easy story to listen to and pleasant voices. Enjoyed the addition of the original music.

Fun little romance

This was a fun little romance with engaging characters that were sometimes frustrating and endearing alternately.

Great storyline

Loved this so much! I truly enjoyed the entire thing, from beginning to end. It flowed so beautifully and I want to read/listen to more of her novels.