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Better Once Than Never
Kalina Ray is looking for her happily ever after.
By day she plans other couples’ impending nuptials, and at night, she goes on dates that end in disaster. She’s had her fair share of dating (bad) and heartbreak (worse), and has tried all the tricks in the book, but her inability to pick up on social cues leaves her making a fool out of herself.
As the maid of honour for her best friend's wedding, she knows that she needs to show up to the event with someone on her arm. She's ready to give up, when she's struck with an idea. What if she enlisted the help of the best-man, Titan Andersson, a well-known playboy, to teach her how to win men over?
Titan Andersson doesn’t date.
Playboy, photographer and perpetual flirt, Titan cannot see himself spending his life with someone. He would much rather keep things casual; no one gets hurt and everybody wins.
When Kalina comes to him with her (rather detailed) plan, how can he say no?
One signed agreement, eight weeks, and a guarantee of finding love, all while keeping feelings and emotions out of the deal—what could go wrong?
Better Once Than Never is a dual POV contemporary reimagining of The Taming of the Shrew with family trauma, open door scenes, and (surprise) a happily ever after.
It is the standalone sequel in the By the Book Series (a three book standalone series where each book is inspired by a Shakespeare play).
By day she plans other couples’ impending nuptials, and at night, she goes on dates that end in disaster. She’s had her fair share of dating (bad) and heartbreak (worse), and has tried all the tricks in the book, but her inability to pick up on social cues leaves her making a fool out of herself.
As the maid of honour for her best friend's wedding, she knows that she needs to show up to the event with someone on her arm. She's ready to give up, when she's struck with an idea. What if she enlisted the help of the best-man, Titan Andersson, a well-known playboy, to teach her how to win men over?
Titan Andersson doesn’t date.
Playboy, photographer and perpetual flirt, Titan cannot see himself spending his life with someone. He would much rather keep things casual; no one gets hurt and everybody wins.
When Kalina comes to him with her (rather detailed) plan, how can he say no?
One signed agreement, eight weeks, and a guarantee of finding love, all while keeping feelings and emotions out of the deal—what could go wrong?
Better Once Than Never is a dual POV contemporary reimagining of The Taming of the Shrew with family trauma, open door scenes, and (surprise) a happily ever after.
It is the standalone sequel in the By the Book Series (a three book standalone series where each book is inspired by a Shakespeare play).
- GenresRomance
Kindle Edition
Published December 28, 2024
4 people are currently reading
76 people want to read
About the author
Nuhaa Bardien
3 books34 followersNuhaa Bardien writes stories with swoon worthy men and strong women. She lives in Cape Town, South Africa, with her husband, son, 11-year-old cat, and new kitten. You can find her picking up a new hobby or reading one of the books from her never-ending TBR list.
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Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews
April 7, 2025
3.75/5 stars
this was such a sweet romance! i loved the main characters, how they both assured each other and were obsessed with the other. it wasn't the most original premise but the characters brought a fun and interesting dynamic to an otherwise cliche plot. bonus points for a childfree by choice couple!
this was such a sweet romance! i loved the main characters, how they both assured each other and were obsessed with the other. it wasn't the most original premise but the characters brought a fun and interesting dynamic to an otherwise cliche plot. bonus points for a childfree by choice couple!
April 8, 2025
AHHHHH, I'm obsessed! Literally could not put it down and ended up finishing it in a couple of hours🥹
January 20, 2025
This book is the reason I’m dangerously low on sleep but outrageously high on serotonin!
”You are everything I never knew I wanted”
From the moment I read the blurb, I knew Better Once Than Never would be an instant favorite, and it completely exceeded my expectations. This is the kind of book that wraps you in a warm hug while making you laugh, swoon, and blush in equal measure.
Let’s start with the gorgeous book cover, seriously, it’s a work of art and the perfect introduction to this charming story! Inside, you’ll find a delightful blend of romance, comedy, and just the right amount of spice.
Kalina Ray is an absolute treasure of an FMC. Her social awkwardness, and relentless hope in the face of bad dates and heartbreak made her not only relatable but also deeply lovable. She’s the kind of character you cheer for every step of the way.
A new addition to my list of favorite book boyfriend, Titan who is charming and sweet, his journey from a commitment-phobic playboy to someone who truly opens his heart is perfection. (Also, the nickname he has for Kalina? SWOON 🫠)
The supporting cast (especially Charlie😭) and the wedding shenanigans, adds even more charm to this already wonderful story.
Its is a reimagined version of The Taming of the Shrew and part of the By the Book series, but it can easily be enjoyed as a standalone.
Better once than never is a must read, its sparkling, modern love story that has cemented a spot as a favourite. Highly, highly recommend!
(Spice =🌶️🌶️)
💖Friends to lovers
🌶️Open Door
💍Maid of honor x best man
🎭Inspired by taming the shrew
👫 Dual POV
”You are everything I never knew I wanted”
From the moment I read the blurb, I knew Better Once Than Never would be an instant favorite, and it completely exceeded my expectations. This is the kind of book that wraps you in a warm hug while making you laugh, swoon, and blush in equal measure.
Let’s start with the gorgeous book cover, seriously, it’s a work of art and the perfect introduction to this charming story! Inside, you’ll find a delightful blend of romance, comedy, and just the right amount of spice.
Kalina Ray is an absolute treasure of an FMC. Her social awkwardness, and relentless hope in the face of bad dates and heartbreak made her not only relatable but also deeply lovable. She’s the kind of character you cheer for every step of the way.
A new addition to my list of favorite book boyfriend, Titan who is charming and sweet, his journey from a commitment-phobic playboy to someone who truly opens his heart is perfection. (Also, the nickname he has for Kalina? SWOON 🫠)
The supporting cast (especially Charlie😭) and the wedding shenanigans, adds even more charm to this already wonderful story.
Its is a reimagined version of The Taming of the Shrew and part of the By the Book series, but it can easily be enjoyed as a standalone.
Better once than never is a must read, its sparkling, modern love story that has cemented a spot as a favourite. Highly, highly recommend!
(Spice =🌶️🌶️)
💖Friends to lovers
🌶️Open Door
💍Maid of honor x best man
🎭Inspired by taming the shrew
👫 Dual POV
December 19, 2024
Better Once Than Never is a cheeky and endearing romcom that’ll have you grinning while reading. Kalina is a likable MC who is easily overstimulated and if that ain’t relatable, idk what is. Titan, the love interest accommodates her needs without it feeling like a chore and without fetishising it either. Titan is an absolute dream and I’m sure he’s going to steal the heart of many readers—my heart lives with Theodore Montague (the love interest from the previous book).
The side characters are lovable and it was a treat getting to see Savi and Ted happy together. I’m excited to see what future books may hold for the other character—CHARLIE? Please? He nearly gave Titan a run for his money.
This is the second book in the universe and while I read and loved book 1 (Till This Night), I’m sure readers will be able to enjoy this one without the lore.
If you’re a lover of romcoms with unlikely allies, interesting arrangements and open door spice, then this is the book for you!
The side characters are lovable and it was a treat getting to see Savi and Ted happy together. I’m excited to see what future books may hold for the other character—CHARLIE? Please? He nearly gave Titan a run for his money.
This is the second book in the universe and while I read and loved book 1 (Till This Night), I’m sure readers will be able to enjoy this one without the lore.
If you’re a lover of romcoms with unlikely allies, interesting arrangements and open door spice, then this is the book for you!
September 12, 2024
A Sweet and Heartfelt Romance!
I absolutely adored this book! Kalina and Titan's story is the perfect blend of humor, warmth, and genuine emotion. The chemistry between them felt incredibly authentic—no forced moments or unrealistic leaps in their relationship. The slow, sweet burn as their feelings blossomed was believable and made their connection all the more satisfying.
The witty banter was super cute, and the more tender moments tugged at my heartstrings. The author did a fantastic job creating characters you can root for, with all their quirks, flaws, and vulnerabilities. Kalina and Titan’s reluctance did make me want to bonk them on the head, and their journey felt natural.
If you're looking for a feel-good romance with lovable characters and plenty of laughs, this book is a must-read!
🌶️🌶️
I absolutely adored this book! Kalina and Titan's story is the perfect blend of humor, warmth, and genuine emotion. The chemistry between them felt incredibly authentic—no forced moments or unrealistic leaps in their relationship. The slow, sweet burn as their feelings blossomed was believable and made their connection all the more satisfying.
The witty banter was super cute, and the more tender moments tugged at my heartstrings. The author did a fantastic job creating characters you can root for, with all their quirks, flaws, and vulnerabilities. Kalina and Titan’s reluctance did make me want to bonk them on the head, and their journey felt natural.
If you're looking for a feel-good romance with lovable characters and plenty of laughs, this book is a must-read!
🌶️🌶️
December 28, 2024
5 stars for myself, one for each year I've spent working and reworking this story.
Titan was the very first love interest I wrote, and while the main character changed with every revision (along with his personality), so did the plot and the story.
A love letter to the neurodiverse women, who maybe struggled to find someone who got them... Titan's got you, my babes 💚
Titan was the very first love interest I wrote, and while the main character changed with every revision (along with his personality), so did the plot and the story.
A love letter to the neurodiverse women, who maybe struggled to find someone who got them... Titan's got you, my babes 💚
January 19, 2025
An example of how powerfully love can blossom in the safety net of a friendship
‘Better Once Than Never’ was stunning! Titan was everything an MMC should be showing up for Kalina in all the ways she needed. Taking care of her and giving her independence and mental marathons a rest. Lina always felt so safe with Titan and it softened her so much. It really left a warm and fuzzy feeling once I’d read the last page.
The spice went up many degrees in this book and I was there for the stolen looks, the heat that always sizzled between them, the eventual pleasurable surrender and their insatiable appetites. The banter was top-tier 🙌🏽and I found myself smiling like a fool at Titan’s humour. The slow-burn romance was done incredibly well and the progression of their feelings realistic and believable. Although both Titan and Lina’s reluctance to acknowledge their feelings for each other felt like we were constantly suspended at knife’s edge, love won.
Savi and Kalina’s family is so warm and you feel the love wrap around you through the pages. I enjoyed seeing Aditi (Kalina and Savi’s granny) again and how open she was with Titan. I also loved that Titan was always so respectful of Kalina’s culture but also recognised it as part of who Lina was.
The author knows how to write strong and independent FMCs and Kalina was no different. I applauded her when Kalina managed to fight for herself during a precarious situation and although Titan showed up, he didn’t swoop in like a hero to save her. Kalina was headstrong, hard working and well-respected in her work.
I really enjoyed the glimpse into Titan’s photography; I think that part was well-researched and the contrast of his biker’s persona with how soft and vulnerable he actually was with Kalina was swoonworthy. His restraint and selflessness was so endearing. Thank goodness for the rain!!!
I think it would’ve elevated Titan’s POV and character if we got to understand the source of the difficult relationship he had with his father a bit more clearly and the reason behind his commitment-phobia prior to Kalina. Although Kalina was raised by her gran and carried the guilt of her mom’s passing, I feel like Lina’s dad could’ve had some prominence in the story. They both had internal struggles with family dynamics and they still felt unresolved by the end of the story.
Regardless of the family dynamic struggles, it was a feel-good romcom with a lesson on how romantic love is that much stronger and hotter when friendship is the foundation. Ultimately it’s a story of vulnerability, psychological safety and an enduring love — a wholesome love story.
I enjoyed the growth in the author’s writing from the previous book and look forward to what she has in store for us next.
I loved it! ❤️
‘Better Once Than Never’ was stunning! Titan was everything an MMC should be showing up for Kalina in all the ways she needed. Taking care of her and giving her independence and mental marathons a rest. Lina always felt so safe with Titan and it softened her so much. It really left a warm and fuzzy feeling once I’d read the last page.
The spice went up many degrees in this book and I was there for the stolen looks, the heat that always sizzled between them, the eventual pleasurable surrender and their insatiable appetites. The banter was top-tier 🙌🏽and I found myself smiling like a fool at Titan’s humour. The slow-burn romance was done incredibly well and the progression of their feelings realistic and believable. Although both Titan and Lina’s reluctance to acknowledge their feelings for each other felt like we were constantly suspended at knife’s edge, love won.
Savi and Kalina’s family is so warm and you feel the love wrap around you through the pages. I enjoyed seeing Aditi (Kalina and Savi’s granny) again and how open she was with Titan. I also loved that Titan was always so respectful of Kalina’s culture but also recognised it as part of who Lina was.
The author knows how to write strong and independent FMCs and Kalina was no different. I applauded her when Kalina managed to fight for herself during a precarious situation and although Titan showed up, he didn’t swoop in like a hero to save her. Kalina was headstrong, hard working and well-respected in her work.
I really enjoyed the glimpse into Titan’s photography; I think that part was well-researched and the contrast of his biker’s persona with how soft and vulnerable he actually was with Kalina was swoonworthy. His restraint and selflessness was so endearing. Thank goodness for the rain!!!
I think it would’ve elevated Titan’s POV and character if we got to understand the source of the difficult relationship he had with his father a bit more clearly and the reason behind his commitment-phobia prior to Kalina. Although Kalina was raised by her gran and carried the guilt of her mom’s passing, I feel like Lina’s dad could’ve had some prominence in the story. They both had internal struggles with family dynamics and they still felt unresolved by the end of the story.
Regardless of the family dynamic struggles, it was a feel-good romcom with a lesson on how romantic love is that much stronger and hotter when friendship is the foundation. Ultimately it’s a story of vulnerability, psychological safety and an enduring love — a wholesome love story.
I enjoyed the growth in the author’s writing from the previous book and look forward to what she has in store for us next.
I loved it! ❤️
June 23, 2025
4.5 ⭐️'s
August 3, 2025
OH EM GEE. @ Nuhaa Bardien, I did not expect to be this obsessed. I mean, I knew I would enjoy this book. I enjoyed Till this Night tremendously. But I did not expect to be obsessed! Guy is roped into a very serious contract to help girl finding a partner for a wedding? I am so here for it.
A large part of why I enjoyed this book has to do with how relatable I found the female main character. It's the little things. How her go-to drink order is either a chai latte or dirty chai. How she loves the smell of cinnamon. How she gets chatty and excitable about her passions. Her hobby of reading romance novels (I'm going to need her to drop some of those historical romance recs 👀). Her habitual planning. Her anxiety and insecurities. So many things had me screaming "that's so me!".
This part particularly got me:
*squeals* because ME TOO! (I'm not lactose intolerant like Kalina, but I do have other health issues that make almond milk the better choice for me)
Anyway, I may be talking a bit too much about our loveable, relatable, desi(!!) heroine. Let me give some attention to her dashing love interest and fellow main character, Titan. I LOVE when romance novels include the male's POV because nothing makes a girl swoon more than male pining. It's ✨drugs✨ for the girlies (me being the girlies). Titan is all charm and kindness and protective of his loved ones. The way he cares about Kalina's lactose intolerance and general health more than she does??? If a guy cared so much about my health I would fall in love with him immediately (I mean... I actually did irl lol). Titan is funny and sexy and flirtatious and everything you need a male lead to be. He also has his fair share of pain and trauma, which is a given in this society we live in, and it adds that extra dimension that makes him a well-rounded and endearing character.
Kalina's sweet naivety paired with Titan's beguiling wit makes for an entertaining, heart-warming and irresistibly delightful read. And yes, there is some good spice 😉 (Kalina is Indian after all!)
It was so wonderful seeing Ted and Savi again (my darling multiracial Romeo & Juliet) and I LOVE how the story is centered around a preparing for a wedding long after the couple have already gotten married. A beautiful blend of unconventionality and culture - which perfectly sums up a Nuhaa Bardien book!
A large part of why I enjoyed this book has to do with how relatable I found the female main character. It's the little things. How her go-to drink order is either a chai latte or dirty chai. How she loves the smell of cinnamon. How she gets chatty and excitable about her passions. Her hobby of reading romance novels (I'm going to need her to drop some of those historical romance recs 👀). Her habitual planning. Her anxiety and insecurities. So many things had me screaming "that's so me!".
This part particularly got me:
*squeals* because ME TOO! (I'm not lactose intolerant like Kalina, but I do have other health issues that make almond milk the better choice for me)
Anyway, I may be talking a bit too much about our loveable, relatable, desi(!!) heroine. Let me give some attention to her dashing love interest and fellow main character, Titan. I LOVE when romance novels include the male's POV because nothing makes a girl swoon more than male pining. It's ✨drugs✨ for the girlies (me being the girlies). Titan is all charm and kindness and protective of his loved ones. The way he cares about Kalina's lactose intolerance and general health more than she does??? If a guy cared so much about my health I would fall in love with him immediately (I mean... I actually did irl lol). Titan is funny and sexy and flirtatious and everything you need a male lead to be. He also has his fair share of pain and trauma, which is a given in this society we live in, and it adds that extra dimension that makes him a well-rounded and endearing character.
Kalina's sweet naivety paired with Titan's beguiling wit makes for an entertaining, heart-warming and irresistibly delightful read. And yes, there is some good spice 😉 (Kalina is Indian after all!)
It was so wonderful seeing Ted and Savi again (my darling multiracial Romeo & Juliet) and I LOVE how the story is centered around a preparing for a wedding long after the couple have already gotten married. A beautiful blend of unconventionality and culture - which perfectly sums up a Nuhaa Bardien book!
January 3, 2025
Summary:
After a string of bad dates, Kalina enlists the help of the local playboy Titan, a walking red flag but one who knows how to flirt. Something Kalina wants some lessons in. But it might not be the only thing she wants…
One signed agreement, eight weeks, and a guarantee of finding love, all while keeping feelings and emotions out of the deal—what could go wrong?
Review:
I binge-read this book in one day. I adored this modern, contemporary reimagining of the Taming of the Shrew and here are a couple of reasons why you should read it.
Reason 1: Kalina was such a charming and likeable MC, who’s comebacks, gorgeous fashion sense and easily over-stimulated self (relatable) stole my heart along with the MMC.
Reason 2: Titan. Titan is perhaps the softest love interest under all those tough leather jackets.
Reason 3: It has the most delicious banter I have seen for a long time that just pops off the page. Honestly, their dialogue really shows the crackling chemistry between the two.
Titan and Kalina are both the novel’s protagonists, with fantastic dual narration and first-person tense that lets you get close to both of them (though the chemistry is so good you feel like you’re interrupting). There are also some brilliant and creative scenes, particularly the photography scenes, that allowed for a unique twist on romance and tension.
The fact that Titan is in fact the one being ‘tamed’ in this gorgeous retelling of Taming of the Shrew will make you melt with all of the soft and warm descriptions of Kalina. However, don’t be fooled, it also has its fair share of heat with its open-door scenes.
After a string of bad dates, Kalina enlists the help of the local playboy Titan, a walking red flag but one who knows how to flirt. Something Kalina wants some lessons in. But it might not be the only thing she wants…
One signed agreement, eight weeks, and a guarantee of finding love, all while keeping feelings and emotions out of the deal—what could go wrong?
Review:
I binge-read this book in one day. I adored this modern, contemporary reimagining of the Taming of the Shrew and here are a couple of reasons why you should read it.
Reason 1: Kalina was such a charming and likeable MC, who’s comebacks, gorgeous fashion sense and easily over-stimulated self (relatable) stole my heart along with the MMC.
Reason 2: Titan. Titan is perhaps the softest love interest under all those tough leather jackets.
Reason 3: It has the most delicious banter I have seen for a long time that just pops off the page. Honestly, their dialogue really shows the crackling chemistry between the two.
Titan and Kalina are both the novel’s protagonists, with fantastic dual narration and first-person tense that lets you get close to both of them (though the chemistry is so good you feel like you’re interrupting). There are also some brilliant and creative scenes, particularly the photography scenes, that allowed for a unique twist on romance and tension.
The fact that Titan is in fact the one being ‘tamed’ in this gorgeous retelling of Taming of the Shrew will make you melt with all of the soft and warm descriptions of Kalina. However, don’t be fooled, it also has its fair share of heat with its open-door scenes.
January 5, 2025
2.5⭐️
Puntos menos porque Titan se la pasa acostandose con diferentes mujeres. Sé que en esa parte no era novio de Kalina, pero le gustaba. Mi mayor problema es que Kalina no tuvo este tipo de escenas con otros, y si van a incluir este tipo de situaciones, lo mínimo que espero es igualdad. Además, no cuentan las dos citas de Kalina con C, ya que solo fueron porque Titan se lo sugirió.
Puntos menos porque Titan se la pasa acostandose con diferentes mujeres. Sé que en esa parte no era novio de Kalina, pero le gustaba. Mi mayor problema es que Kalina no tuvo este tipo de escenas con otros, y si van a incluir este tipo de situaciones, lo mínimo que espero es igualdad. Además, no cuentan las dos citas de Kalina con C, ya que solo fueron porque Titan se lo sugirió.
June 14, 2025
Could not put this book down.
Enjoyed the push and pull between these too, made for good humour and lust ha ha.
Enjoyed the push and pull between these too, made for good humour and lust ha ha.
January 13, 2025
This is a contemporary reimagining of The Taming the Shrew. It’s the second book in the series, however it can be read as a standalone. The book follows Titan Anderson and Kalina Ray as the two help plan their best friends’ wedding. Kalina has always struggled with dating and goes to Titan (a well-known playboy) for help. The two come up with an arrangement that includes Titan teaching Lina how to win over men, with the goal being that she will have a date in time for their friend’s wedding. What can possibly go wrong with an agreement between a flirty photographer who doesn’t date and a neurodivergent event planner who’s unlucky with love?
I did a beta read for this book and instantly fell in love with all the characters, so getting to read the final version was incredibly exciting. After finishing the beta read, I immediately grabbed book one from the series because I didn’t want to miss out (if you haven’t read either of them, I highly recommend them).
While Kalina’s character was great, I absolutely adored Titan. The way he respects Kalina’s grandma (he touches her feet to greet her – we love a cultured man) and follows desi cultural norms was so sweet. I also loved seeing how Titan brought Kalina out of her shell, but did so in a way where she was in control, and where she was safe and comfortable. Seeing Kalina become more confident in herself was incredible.
Random note: I know Charlie was a side character, but please, please give him his own book @nuhaamakes. I loved that man and was rooting for him a little bit, especially after he bought her books on their first date. And then seeing the way he reacted to everything at the end – that man was a walking green forest.
I did a beta read for this book and instantly fell in love with all the characters, so getting to read the final version was incredibly exciting. After finishing the beta read, I immediately grabbed book one from the series because I didn’t want to miss out (if you haven’t read either of them, I highly recommend them).
While Kalina’s character was great, I absolutely adored Titan. The way he respects Kalina’s grandma (he touches her feet to greet her – we love a cultured man) and follows desi cultural norms was so sweet. I also loved seeing how Titan brought Kalina out of her shell, but did so in a way where she was in control, and where she was safe and comfortable. Seeing Kalina become more confident in herself was incredible.
Random note: I know Charlie was a side character, but please, please give him his own book @nuhaamakes. I loved that man and was rooting for him a little bit, especially after he bought her books on their first date. And then seeing the way he reacted to everything at the end – that man was a walking green forest.
Displaying 1 - 14 of 14 reviews