Another new-to-me author that makes me want to read more of her books. While this story was a bit of a slow starter for me, once it gained momentum, I didn’t want to put it down. And that was by the 25% mark, so it didn’t take all that long.

Julia and Rocco are both amazing characters. Tough, kind, funny, compassionate, smart. They tick all the boxes. They are desperately attracted to one another in a physical sense well before they even get past knowing each other’s names. And each thought the other wouldn’t be interested for a variety of reasons, plus neither was looking for a relationship.

After years of on again/off again with the same guy, Julia suffered the ultimate betrayal when he left her for another woman…after she had totally rearranged her life for him. So, it’s no wonder that she’s gun shy. There are a few times I think she’s a bit too resistant to giving love another try, but it’s understandable so I tried not to hold it against her.

Rocco wouldn’t mind some love in his life, but he doesn’t understand what that really means. He’s always been one to give love and care and security, never one to get the same in return. And he has a sister and niece back in New York relying on him to get out of a bad situation. Rocco is such a generous and kind person, it doesn’t even occur to him that his sister can or will adjust to his wants so he doesn’t have to give up the things he wants in order to help her. It’s so black and white for him.

Once Rocco and Julia start being thrown together, the train starts picking up speed. So much so that you know it’s going to barrel out of control sooner or later. Their ragtag group of friends Julia is responsible for getting together becomes a beautiful family. I love them all and really enjoyed their interactions. They were like interfering siblings, teasing and pushing the couple together while also being extremely supportive.

There is so much to love about this story. It’s beautifully sweet one moment, and on fire the next. The chemistry is obvious from the first moment we see Julia and Rocco interact. Not only were the friends given a ton of depth, so were both families. The author did an amazing job of writing the love of Julia’s family and the unpleasantness of Rocco’s. I could feel both in my gut.

I’m really looking forward to reading some of this author’s earlier stories. She definitely has a way with words.

**I received an ARC of this book courtesy of Net Galley and the publisher. All opinions expressed in this review are my own and given freely**

You can read more of my reviews at All In Good Time.