In Alicia Thompson's 2023 novel, WITH LOVE, FROM COLD WORLD, readers loved the chemistry between its romantic leads but also swooned over one of its more minor characters. As one Goodreads user wrote, "Frankly, I'd die for John." John, one of Asa's housemates, finally gets some main character energy in NEVER BEEN SHIPPED, a romance set in the world of rock music --- and on the high seas.

John was once the rhythm guitarist for a band, ElectricOh!, that had its one big hit when their song was selected to be played during the pivotal prom scene on a popular television program. But they were destined to become one-hit wonders after John's childhood best friend, lead singer Micah, decided to pursue a solo career. The band never recovered.

"NEVER BEEN SHIPPED offers a unique blend of a shipboard romance with a behind-the-scenes rock 'n' roll drama. That, plus a hefty dose of nostalgia...and more than a few spicy sprinkles, makes for a powerhouse romance whose chords ring true."

The band members have found their own paths in the decades since their short-lived fame flamed out. Micah's solo career never really got off the ground, and she's just been living off royalties for years, while John makes ends meet by playing in cover bands and other short-term gigs. Even though the five bandmates have been friends since high school, they've fallen out of touch since their breakup.

So none of them really knows what to expect when, out of the blue, they're invited to participate as featured performers on a Caribbean cruise devoted to fans of the aforementioned TV show --- and to play their one hit at the cruise's culminating "prom night" party, of course. Micah reluctantly agrees to participate, even though she's sure her bandmates resent her for putting an end to what could have been a much bigger career. And John is not sure what to expect; even before the band broke up, Micah broke his heart when she started dating the egotistical lead guitarist, Ryder.

But as soon as they get into rehearsals on board the ship, things just click into place --- both musically and romantically. One-time besties John and Micah discover they still can confide in one another just like they used to do --- and also explore the attraction that they never admitted was there all along. But can Micah, her confidence shaken by her failed solo career, find her way back into the spotlight? And can John finally admit the depth of his feelings for her?

NEVER BEEN SHIPPED offers a unique blend of a shipboard romance with a behind-the-scenes rock 'n' roll drama. That, plus a hefty dose of nostalgia --- John and Micah spend a fair amount of time recalling how they used to relate to each other as teenagers, and how ElectricOh! got started in the first place --- and more than a few spicy sprinkles, makes for a powerhouse romance whose chords ring true. Chapters are told from both Micah and John's perspectives, and Thompson helpfully curates a playlist --- with a different song for each chapter --- to further heighten the musical connections and the emotional reading experience.