This was fine but not very engaging for me. I felt bored during a lot of it and I never fully connected with the story. I have heard the series improves, so I will keep going, but this first book just was not the strongest start.

I have mixed feelings, but mostly in a good way. I loved the banter between Conor and Maya because their dynamic felt fun, natural, and full of chemistry. The small group setting in Italy was one of my favorite parts because it made everything feel more intimate and personal.

The age gap is the part I am still processing. It made me feel a little weird at times, but I was also kind of into it. Their relationship grew slowly and respectfully, and it never felt forced or uncomfortable. I really liked that their shift from friends to something more happened in a believable and genuine way.

Overall, the book gave me great banter, a beautiful setting, and a romance that worked even when it made me think a little.

This was such a fun, easy read, and I really enjoyed the mix of tropes. The sunshine/grumpy dynamic was great, the forced proximity worked so well, and the whole ‘I’m helping you but definitely catching feelings’ vibe was exactly my thing. I loved the friendship-to-something-more build and the slow emotional thaw between them. It didn’t quite have that 5-star magic for me, but I was fully invested and had a great time with their story.

This was everything I want in a romance. No third-act breakup (bless), a deliciously almost fake-dating setup, and the exact kind of yearning that makes my brain short-circuit in the best way. The banter was sharp, the chemistry was constant, and the emotional tension had me fully invested from start to finish. It just hit every single one of my favorite tropes perfectly.

It was lighthearted and fun, and I loved the banter between the characters. The slow burn kept me interested the whole time. I did not realize it was a closed door romance, and I missed having a little more spice. I always enjoy a small town setting though, and this one delivered.