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When in Rome #1
RomeAntically Challenged
Amazon Best Romance of the Month
Publishers Marketplace BuzzBooks: ROMANCE 2020-2021 pick
Fresh Fiction Fresh Pick
A witty, sexy, and charming story from the #1 National Bestselling author of the St. Helena Vineyard series that fans of Emily Henry, Jen DeLuca, and Kate Clayborn will adore.
Growing up the lone Asian in a community of WASPs, Annie has always felt out of place. Her solution? Start a family of her own. Not easy when every man she’s dated, including her ex-fiancé, finds “his person� right after breaking up with Annie. Even worse than canceling the wedding eight weeks beforehand? Learning the “other woman� plans to walk down the aisle wearing her wedding gown. New plan—find a fresh, man-free start. Too bad her exit strategy unexpectedly lands her working at a hospital in Rome, Rhode Island, rather than Rome, Italy, and sharing a cabin with a big, brooding, and annoyingly hot male roommate.
Home on medical leave after covering a literally explosive story in China, investigative photojournalist Emmitt embarks on his most important assignment—cementing his place in his daughter’s life. Three men and a baby might work in the movies, but with a stepdad and devoted uncle competing for Paisley’s attention, Emmitt has lost his place at the family table. Then there’s the adorably sexy squatter in his cabin, who poses another problem, one he’d very much like to solve up close and personal. But he can’t win—Annie has sworn off men, Paisley’s gone boy crazy, and Emmitt’s estranged father reappears with a secret that changes everything.
Annie and Emmitt are about to discover love comes in many forms, and sometimes the best families are the ones we make.
Publishers Marketplace BuzzBooks: ROMANCE 2020-2021 pick
Fresh Fiction Fresh Pick
A witty, sexy, and charming story from the #1 National Bestselling author of the St. Helena Vineyard series that fans of Emily Henry, Jen DeLuca, and Kate Clayborn will adore.
Growing up the lone Asian in a community of WASPs, Annie has always felt out of place. Her solution? Start a family of her own. Not easy when every man she’s dated, including her ex-fiancé, finds “his person� right after breaking up with Annie. Even worse than canceling the wedding eight weeks beforehand? Learning the “other woman� plans to walk down the aisle wearing her wedding gown. New plan—find a fresh, man-free start. Too bad her exit strategy unexpectedly lands her working at a hospital in Rome, Rhode Island, rather than Rome, Italy, and sharing a cabin with a big, brooding, and annoyingly hot male roommate.
Home on medical leave after covering a literally explosive story in China, investigative photojournalist Emmitt embarks on his most important assignment—cementing his place in his daughter’s life. Three men and a baby might work in the movies, but with a stepdad and devoted uncle competing for Paisley’s attention, Emmitt has lost his place at the family table. Then there’s the adorably sexy squatter in his cabin, who poses another problem, one he’d very much like to solve up close and personal. But he can’t win—Annie has sworn off men, Paisley’s gone boy crazy, and Emmitt’s estranged father reappears with a secret that changes everything.
Annie and Emmitt are about to discover love comes in many forms, and sometimes the best families are the ones we make.
320 pages, Paperback
First published July 28, 2020
369 people are currently reading
10039 people want to read
About the author
Marina Adair
38Ìýbooks1,924ÌýfollowersMarina Adair is a New York Times author whose fun, flirty contemporary romances have sold over a million copies. She has hit #1 overall in Amazon Kindle Paid and her St. Helena Vineyard series was optioned and made into the original Hallmark Channel Vineyard movies: Autumn in the Vineyard, Summer in the Vineyard, and Valentines in the Vineyard. Raised in the San Francisco Bay Area. She holds a MFA from San Jose University and currently lives in Northern California with her husband, daughter, and two neurotic cats. Please visit her online at MarinaAdair.com and sign up for her newsletter at .
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 605 reviews
June 30, 2021
This book is advertised and mash-up of Three Men and a baby (correct! Charming hero has a teenage daughter with two other dads who are also straight!) and 27 Dresses( not exactly)! I reminded me of Dane Cook’s “Good Luck Chuck� but of course this time a guy is not dumped by the women who recently got married after the second he had sex with them because he turned their good luck marriage charm! In this story dear Annie dates with the guys and after her breakups she always finds out they get marry as soon as they dumped her. She becomes their good luck charm to find their love of their lives! So unfair and annoying, isn’t it?
At the opening Annie is dumped by her fiancée this time and you want to punch and open holes in that horrible guy’s little brain because that despicable human waste still keeps the venue Annie spent so much energy to reserve for their wedding and keeps her deposit so he can marry with his new bride. Of course her notorious bride earns so many punch points because she stops by the same boutique Annie had grandmother’s dress tailored and surprisingly her measurements mixed up with Annie’s now she didn’t only steal the soon to be husband scumbag, the venue, she also stole the wedding dress! Yes feel free to scream, I already did several times!
Poor Annie screams at her scumbag ex on the phone and leaves the town to start from the fresh with her new work place at Rome. Nope, she didn’t escape to Italy. She wished but she can only manage to go to Rhode Island.
And of course she met with charismatic, witty, charming Emmitt who happens to be new roommate. She already swore not to have a relationship for a long time but their sizzling, hot chemistry, entertaining banters and sexy flirting prevent her to keep the promise. I love their friends to lovers evolving relationship and I truly loved both of the characters.
But at the last parts: you know the drill, something comes out and forces the beautiful couple to suffer from terrible heartbreak and at that part, Emmitt really pissed me off and acted immature. (Mostly one of the parties act like obnoxious, irritating brat and I always cut one point during my reading. But sometimes both parties may be irritating and more point cuts occur!)
And groveling part was a little weak but I still liked the conclusion. This is feel-good, keep smiling and sigh kind of entertaining rom-com with likable characters. I’m giving my enjoyable, sweet-swoon four stars!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for sharing this entertaining ARC with me in exchange my honest review.
At the opening Annie is dumped by her fiancée this time and you want to punch and open holes in that horrible guy’s little brain because that despicable human waste still keeps the venue Annie spent so much energy to reserve for their wedding and keeps her deposit so he can marry with his new bride. Of course her notorious bride earns so many punch points because she stops by the same boutique Annie had grandmother’s dress tailored and surprisingly her measurements mixed up with Annie’s now she didn’t only steal the soon to be husband scumbag, the venue, she also stole the wedding dress! Yes feel free to scream, I already did several times!
Poor Annie screams at her scumbag ex on the phone and leaves the town to start from the fresh with her new work place at Rome. Nope, she didn’t escape to Italy. She wished but she can only manage to go to Rhode Island.
And of course she met with charismatic, witty, charming Emmitt who happens to be new roommate. She already swore not to have a relationship for a long time but their sizzling, hot chemistry, entertaining banters and sexy flirting prevent her to keep the promise. I love their friends to lovers evolving relationship and I truly loved both of the characters.
But at the last parts: you know the drill, something comes out and forces the beautiful couple to suffer from terrible heartbreak and at that part, Emmitt really pissed me off and acted immature. (Mostly one of the parties act like obnoxious, irritating brat and I always cut one point during my reading. But sometimes both parties may be irritating and more point cuts occur!)
And groveling part was a little weak but I still liked the conclusion. This is feel-good, keep smiling and sigh kind of entertaining rom-com with likable characters. I’m giving my enjoyable, sweet-swoon four stars!
Special thanks to NetGalley and Kensington Publishing for sharing this entertaining ARC with me in exchange my honest review.
July 29, 2020
Romeantically Challenged by Marina Adair
A Contemporary romance with so much heart.
Finding “their person� is such a romantic concept. This novel filled me with joy. Ok, some tears and frustration as the story progressed but I tend to read slower the more I like a story. I really wanted to just stop at 80% and revel in the gooey feelings. But, of course, conflicts still needed to be resolved and men have to freak about something.
It was so worth reading to the end. Absolutely loved this book and couple.
Implied sentimentality. It melted my heart.
“Right now he needed someone to listen, so she took his hand, which was like holding melting ice, and without hesitation, his fingers laced with hers.�
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. I also purchased a copy to share.
A Contemporary romance with so much heart.
Finding “their person� is such a romantic concept. This novel filled me with joy. Ok, some tears and frustration as the story progressed but I tend to read slower the more I like a story. I really wanted to just stop at 80% and revel in the gooey feelings. But, of course, conflicts still needed to be resolved and men have to freak about something.
It was so worth reading to the end. Absolutely loved this book and couple.
Implied sentimentality. It melted my heart.
“Right now he needed someone to listen, so she took his hand, which was like holding melting ice, and without hesitation, his fingers laced with hers.�
I received a copy of this book from NetGalley. I also purchased a copy to share.
June 19, 2020
Check out the review on my blog:
Rating: 4 / 5
This was one of those books that was super cute and funny, but there were definitely some deeper issues masked underneath the fluff.
It follows our main character Anh Nhi (but call her Annie!), who moves to Rome (Rhode Island, not Italy), after being dumped by fiancee who found her s/o after only a month and is getting married at the venue she planned. And it’s been like this her whole life, she gets in a relationship with someone and ‘fixes� them, only to be dumped and replaced by their soul-mate. But it’s not her that’s problem, right?
In Rome, she unexpectedly meets her new roommate Emmitt, at first glance a womanizer, but actually a dad to a teenage girl that has two other dads. And he has to fight for her attention.
The whole story sounded so crazy to me and I was immediately drawn to it. It has such a witty and funny, but also self-deprecating tinge to it that just makes you want to read more of the story. The characters are not black-and-white, actually none of them is describe to be mean, because as the story continues you learn more about their feelings and life story.
I loved both of our main characters as they learned to accept their own feelings. Annie, that has been disappointed in all of her relationships and Emmitt who has never really had a meaningful relationships, only flings. They need to learn to trust each other and they eventually do.
The greatest thing about this story is that although it’s a romance, the love story is not really brought to us as a main topic and it’s not the only thing that is talked about. I personally think it’s about family and the journey of finding your true self.
Since Annie was born in Vietnam and was adopted by white parents, she felt like an imposter her whole life and she never felt like she belonged in either of those cultures. But as the story progresses she slowly starts understanding and learning more about her roots. My favorite thing was the author’s note at the end, where she explained how her own daughter was also adopted (and also from Vietnam) and it gave the whole story such a realistic feel and I found it so beautiful and touching.
I agree that family is the most important thing, and that is shown to us throughout the whole book. Firstly, Annie’s relationship with her parents who love her unconditionally and they all have such a strong bond. Next, Emmitt’s relationship with his daughter who is also raised by her uncle and her step-dad. I haven’t read a lot of books where the main character is a single father and personally, I loved reading about it. Especially when the dad is trying to get to know his daughter better and have a better relationship with her. And thirdly, Emmitt’s relationship with his own dad and the realization that after so many years he must learn to forgive him.
This book was such a good read and honestly, a breath of fresh air. The only thing I wish was different is the ending (possible spoiler alert). I had this idea in my head that Annie and Emmitt would go to her ex’s wedding in the end and something brilliant would happen. The ending wasn’t even similar to that, though, and I know we all think differently and obviously I’m not the author but I really wanted it to end like that lol. Nonetheless, it was still really good.
Rating: 4 / 5
This was one of those books that was super cute and funny, but there were definitely some deeper issues masked underneath the fluff.
It follows our main character Anh Nhi (but call her Annie!), who moves to Rome (Rhode Island, not Italy), after being dumped by fiancee who found her s/o after only a month and is getting married at the venue she planned. And it’s been like this her whole life, she gets in a relationship with someone and ‘fixes� them, only to be dumped and replaced by their soul-mate. But it’s not her that’s problem, right?
In Rome, she unexpectedly meets her new roommate Emmitt, at first glance a womanizer, but actually a dad to a teenage girl that has two other dads. And he has to fight for her attention.
The whole story sounded so crazy to me and I was immediately drawn to it. It has such a witty and funny, but also self-deprecating tinge to it that just makes you want to read more of the story. The characters are not black-and-white, actually none of them is describe to be mean, because as the story continues you learn more about their feelings and life story.
I loved both of our main characters as they learned to accept their own feelings. Annie, that has been disappointed in all of her relationships and Emmitt who has never really had a meaningful relationships, only flings. They need to learn to trust each other and they eventually do.
The greatest thing about this story is that although it’s a romance, the love story is not really brought to us as a main topic and it’s not the only thing that is talked about. I personally think it’s about family and the journey of finding your true self.
Since Annie was born in Vietnam and was adopted by white parents, she felt like an imposter her whole life and she never felt like she belonged in either of those cultures. But as the story progresses she slowly starts understanding and learning more about her roots. My favorite thing was the author’s note at the end, where she explained how her own daughter was also adopted (and also from Vietnam) and it gave the whole story such a realistic feel and I found it so beautiful and touching.
I agree that family is the most important thing, and that is shown to us throughout the whole book. Firstly, Annie’s relationship with her parents who love her unconditionally and they all have such a strong bond. Next, Emmitt’s relationship with his daughter who is also raised by her uncle and her step-dad. I haven’t read a lot of books where the main character is a single father and personally, I loved reading about it. Especially when the dad is trying to get to know his daughter better and have a better relationship with her. And thirdly, Emmitt’s relationship with his own dad and the realization that after so many years he must learn to forgive him.
This book was such a good read and honestly, a breath of fresh air. The only thing I wish was different is the ending (possible spoiler alert). I had this idea in my head that Annie and Emmitt would go to her ex’s wedding in the end and something brilliant would happen. The ending wasn’t even similar to that, though, and I know we all think differently and obviously I’m not the author but I really wanted it to end like that lol. Nonetheless, it was still really good.
July 27, 2020
Anh Nhi (Annie) Walsh, born Asian, adopted and raised white wants to make a new life for herself after being jilted by her fiance just weeks before their wedding. Annie moves to Rome, Rhode Island and sets up house in a rental, only to discover that the home's owner, Emmitt Bradley, is back on medical leave. You can just imagine what takes place when you combine the prickliness of a jilted woman with the machismo of a GQ-ish man -- chaos.
RomeAntically challenged contains all the elements of a five-star worthy romantic comedy. You will laugh at the comedic moments. You will want to punch some peoples' lights out. You will cry at those poignant moments; and you will feel the glow of love. All of these things are wrapped up in a nice little package of a read.
An excellent romantic comedy. Five stars -- I really loved it.
Thank you Kennsington Books for a physical ARC through BookishFirst. The review herein is my own and are my honest thoughts.
RomeAntically challenged contains all the elements of a five-star worthy romantic comedy. You will laugh at the comedic moments. You will want to punch some peoples' lights out. You will cry at those poignant moments; and you will feel the glow of love. All of these things are wrapped up in a nice little package of a read.
An excellent romantic comedy. Five stars -- I really loved it.
Thank you Kennsington Books for a physical ARC through BookishFirst. The review herein is my own and are my honest thoughts.
March 9, 2021
Lo siento, pero creo estar perdiendo el tiempo, no veo diálogos que me enganchen, ni hechos, en 30% han pasado tres cosas, chica abandonada en el altar va pueblo nuevo, hobre/trauma vuelve pueblo y se encuentran en la misma casa, mucho pensamiento, empiezan a aparecer secundarios y poco mas
July 11, 2020
I was expecting a completely different book than this. Romeantically Challanged took me by surprise and I'm not mad about it. I was expecting something along the lines of a rom-com, but instead found a great book dealing with deep topics.
Personally, this book made me cry countless times.
I love that Marina Adair decided to write a story with a protagonist her daughter can see herself into. I absolutely love that and you can see she knows what she's talking about when Anh Ni struggles with her life as an in-betweener, trying to find her identity when she is constantly put into tiny little boxes she does not fit.
I really connected with Emmitt's storyline and struggles. I think it hit me harder than it would have pre-lockdown, but I really felt deep in my heart his feeling like he doesn't belong in his hometown anymore, the feeling that he came back to changed people and feeling out of the loop. People thinking that leaving is the easy thing to do when in reality it takes great courage and pain to leave behind what you've known your whole life to follow a dream or for a better opportunity.
I found their story to be sad, touching, but overall hopeful. You might feel like an outsider in your own life but be assured that many other people feel the same and it's OK. Learn to accept yourself in your uniqueness. Some people will never understand, but it' their loss. Like my grandpa always used to say "be yourself, variety is the spice of life".
I wish she didn't have to incorporate the miscommunication trope, also because I saw it coming from a mile away, but she did go there and wrapped it up a little too quickly for my liking.
Overall, this book made very emotional and it was a very pleasant read. I liked Emmitt's relationship and would love to see more of Emmitt, Anh Ni, and Paisley in the future.
I'd like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for sending me an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
Personally, this book made me cry countless times.
I love that Marina Adair decided to write a story with a protagonist her daughter can see herself into. I absolutely love that and you can see she knows what she's talking about when Anh Ni struggles with her life as an in-betweener, trying to find her identity when she is constantly put into tiny little boxes she does not fit.
I really connected with Emmitt's storyline and struggles. I think it hit me harder than it would have pre-lockdown, but I really felt deep in my heart his feeling like he doesn't belong in his hometown anymore, the feeling that he came back to changed people and feeling out of the loop. People thinking that leaving is the easy thing to do when in reality it takes great courage and pain to leave behind what you've known your whole life to follow a dream or for a better opportunity.
I found their story to be sad, touching, but overall hopeful. You might feel like an outsider in your own life but be assured that many other people feel the same and it's OK. Learn to accept yourself in your uniqueness. Some people will never understand, but it' their loss. Like my grandpa always used to say "be yourself, variety is the spice of life".
I wish she didn't have to incorporate the miscommunication trope, also because I saw it coming from a mile away, but she did go there and wrapped it up a little too quickly for my liking.
Overall, this book made very emotional and it was a very pleasant read. I liked Emmitt's relationship and would love to see more of Emmitt, Anh Ni, and Paisley in the future.
I'd like to thank NetGalley and the publisher for sending me an e-arc in exchange for an honest review.
February 26, 2021
No me gustan los libros sin introducción. Al obviarse una parte fundamental en la estructura de una historia, generalmente, el autor debe volver para explicarse sobre los motivos y la situaciones que llevaron a los personajes a ese momento. La historia bastante vista y la traducción bastante floja.
March 3, 2021
eBook Giveaway Win!
I liked everything about this romance novel, except the romance.
I loved the small town vibes, I loved the basic premise of a woman whose exes immediately get married after they break up with her. I loved the discussion of what its like growing up Vietnamese with white adoptive parents. I loved the fact that the lead was father who shared custody of his daughter with her stepfather and her uncle. I just didn't feel anything for Annie and Emmett as a couple.
Annie & Emmett acted like 14 year olds. These people are supposed to be in their late 20's to 30's and yet they felt super immature. So I kind of just started skimming the romance scenes but I just couldn't take it anymore.
Overall I still liked this book and I would recommend it to readers who like light fluffy romances in small towns.
Plus I got my copy of this book and the next book in the series for free!
I liked everything about this romance novel, except the romance.
I loved the small town vibes, I loved the basic premise of a woman whose exes immediately get married after they break up with her. I loved the discussion of what its like growing up Vietnamese with white adoptive parents. I loved the fact that the lead was father who shared custody of his daughter with her stepfather and her uncle. I just didn't feel anything for Annie and Emmett as a couple.
Annie & Emmett acted like 14 year olds. These people are supposed to be in their late 20's to 30's and yet they felt super immature. So I kind of just started skimming the romance scenes but I just couldn't take it anymore.
Overall I still liked this book and I would recommend it to readers who like light fluffy romances in small towns.
Plus I got my copy of this book and the next book in the series for free!
July 18, 2020
3 Figuring Things Out Stars
* * * Spoiler Free-A Quick Review
This had a very interesting way to get to the HEA. Our gal couldn't win for loosing. Every time she thought she had met her "Guy" they would break up and then in a New York Minute, the guy would find His Person and boom, married.
Now, this happened repeatedly, and when it finally happened in the worst way possible...and it really was horrific...She decides she has had enough and moves to Rome...as in Rhode Island.
There she moves into a place with a roommate...a guy roommate with a teenage daughter and other family friends. She is Not Interested in Romance at all but of course, it comes calling.
These two go through their own individual arcs, his more revealing, and then it all somehow works.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
* * * Spoiler Free-A Quick Review
This had a very interesting way to get to the HEA. Our gal couldn't win for loosing. Every time she thought she had met her "Guy" they would break up and then in a New York Minute, the guy would find His Person and boom, married.
Now, this happened repeatedly, and when it finally happened in the worst way possible...and it really was horrific...She decides she has had enough and moves to Rome...as in Rhode Island.
There she moves into a place with a roommate...a guy roommate with a teenage daughter and other family friends. She is Not Interested in Romance at all but of course, it comes calling.
These two go through their own individual arcs, his more revealing, and then it all somehow works.
A gifted copy was provided by author/publisher via NetGalley for an honest review.
For more Reviews, Free E-books and Giveaways
August 13, 2020
A great story that is highly emotional, enjoyable, and entertaining. I'd hear so much hype about this book that I admit to being on the fence about it, but it definitely earns the high praise it's getting everywhere.
Both the heroine, Annie, and the hero, Emmitt, have great character arcs and growth. It's great to see them opening up to each other and stepping up when needed. And they're surrounded by characters I'm fully invested in. I definitely need to see Gray get his HEA.
Both the heroine, Annie, and the hero, Emmitt, have great character arcs and growth. It's great to see them opening up to each other and stepping up when needed. And they're surrounded by characters I'm fully invested in. I definitely need to see Gray get his HEA.
October 26, 2021
3.5 en realidad
¡Pero qué lectura tan entretenida y tierna!
Me apetecÃa mucho leer algo de comedia romántica, y no podÃa haber sido una elección mejor: unos personajes a los que es muy fácil coger cariño, una relación potente y ardiente, y mucha emoción.
¡Pero qué lectura tan entretenida y tierna!
Me apetecÃa mucho leer algo de comedia romántica, y no podÃa haber sido una elección mejor: unos personajes a los que es muy fácil coger cariño, una relación potente y ardiente, y mucha emoción.
August 4, 2020
I really loved this book! It's the perfect staycation, escape from CoVid chaos, sit by the pool with a iced bevie read! 'RomeAntically Challenged' is a nicely layered story with humor, emotion, drama & romance, & even better, book 2 in this 'When in Rome' series comes out in Jan 2021! 6 short months (unless CoVid has other plans for that release date like so many others...)
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'RomeAntically Challenged' by Marina Adair is charming, uplifting, endearing & swoon-worthy with loveable characters you will enjoy getting to know.
.
'RomeAntically Challenged' by Marina Adair is charming, uplifting, endearing & swoon-worthy with loveable characters you will enjoy getting to know.
May 18, 2023
DNF after 10 chapters
I put this down over a month ago and have no desire to continue. The heroine is a doormat. The hero is awful. I was just so alternately bored and disbelieving. I don't care how it ends. There were also some real cringy pieces of dialogue and situations. Hopefully, someone can pick it up from the free little library I donated to and enjoy it. Not for me.
I put this down over a month ago and have no desire to continue. The heroine is a doormat. The hero is awful. I was just so alternately bored and disbelieving. I don't care how it ends. There were also some real cringy pieces of dialogue and situations. Hopefully, someone can pick it up from the free little library I donated to and enjoy it. Not for me.
July 27, 2020
3.5*
I like the way the title was worked into the story, it was more natural instead of being forced in there. Sometimes titles are just an overall feel to the story and other times they actually work in it, and in this case it was the latter and that made me happy. Just a small thing, but sometimes it's the small things that make me happy! And in the case of this book, it was more of the small things that worked for me.
Romeantically Challenged is cute and light read, with a couple of somewhat heavier and emotional issues that the main characters had to deal with. Anh/Annie and Emmitt were entertaining characters and I liked them individually. I enjoyed both their journeys, as they each kind of came into their own and made some realizations about themselves.
But I don't feel like I ever really connected to them as a couple- they weren't on page together enough for me. By the end I was kind of invested in them, but I wanted more.
The ending was a little too abrupt for me, I feel like we were left hanging, especially in regards to some aspects of the story. I see there is a second book coming, but it features a different couple so I don't think it'll give me the feeling of closure I needed from this book.
Overall, Romeantically Challenged was an easy read. The characters were likeable and both Annie and Emmitt's stories were compelling. But unfortunately it just didn't have that wow factor for me.
I like the way the title was worked into the story, it was more natural instead of being forced in there. Sometimes titles are just an overall feel to the story and other times they actually work in it, and in this case it was the latter and that made me happy. Just a small thing, but sometimes it's the small things that make me happy! And in the case of this book, it was more of the small things that worked for me.
Romeantically Challenged is cute and light read, with a couple of somewhat heavier and emotional issues that the main characters had to deal with. Anh/Annie and Emmitt were entertaining characters and I liked them individually. I enjoyed both their journeys, as they each kind of came into their own and made some realizations about themselves.
But I don't feel like I ever really connected to them as a couple- they weren't on page together enough for me. By the end I was kind of invested in them, but I wanted more.
The ending was a little too abrupt for me, I feel like we were left hanging, especially in regards to some aspects of the story. I see there is a second book coming, but it features a different couple so I don't think it'll give me the feeling of closure I needed from this book.
Overall, Romeantically Challenged was an easy read. The characters were likeable and both Annie and Emmitt's stories were compelling. But unfortunately it just didn't have that wow factor for me.
July 31, 2020
I received a complimentary print copy of this book from Bookish First Impressions in exchange for an unbiased review.
I enjoyed the light, playful cover which aptly displays the story you’re about to read. I fell in love with the characters right away. The confusion placing Ahn Nhi Walsh in the unexpected path of Emmitt Bradley is a perfect storm! This is the perfect escape from life for awhile book.
Anh Nhi Walsh is a physician’s assistant was adopted from Vietnam by two renowned therapists living in Hartford, CT. Most people call her “Annie� since saying her name often proves challenging. She thought her life was falling into place as she anxiously prepared for her wedding. She had just picked up her grandmother Hannah’s silk Grecian 1941 wedding gown which was bought in Ireland. She had it meticulously restored at Bliss boutique so she could feel comforted by her belated grandmother’s presence at her wedding.
Her life is turned sideways when she wakes up 3 months before her wedding, which also happens to be her grandparents wedding anniversary, to find her fiancé Dr Clark Atwood gone. He breaks their engagement via a text with a “it’s not you, it’s me� line. She doesn’t even have time to recover from the shock when she sees an Instagram post of her ex-fiancé and his “true love� newly engaged. While Annie is attempting to cancel venues and request refunds she is appalled to find that Clark has replaced her with Molly-Leigh.
It’s only when she tries on her wedding dress does she realizes that Clark has hijacked “her� wedding. He shared her wedding journal with Molly-Leigh who fell in love with all of Annie’s wedding plans including her grandmother’s heirloom gown! There was a mix up and her dress was restored to fit Molly-Leigh who is physically Annie’s opposite. If that weren’t enough, Clark tells her that her mother neglected to cancel the venue at the Hartford Club hoping they would reunite. After two years of waiting for a date she placed a $10k deposit which he states he will refund after his wedding there.
Annie finally thought she found her soul mate after five failed relationships. “Her life had been a nonstop revolving door of serial monogamists, each with a fatal flaw that kept him from finding the one.� Ultimately, when those relationships ended the men found their soul mate and married. Not wanting to face all the humiliation of the aftermath of this disaster, she gets a temporary travel position in Rome, RI.
Annie rents a cabin on the banks of Buzzard’s Bay where the owner is apparently oversees on assignment as a photojournalist. Emmitt Bradley is sent home from China after a concrete building explosion which resulted in a concussion, fractured ribs, and several shrapnel pieces that needed removal. Home on medical leave, he returns to his cottage unaware that his friend Levi rented it out to Annie for 6 months. As Annie is struggling to remove the too tight wedding gown after a heated phone call with Clark she is surprised by the presence of a big broad figure looming behind her. A hilarious interaction occurs between Emmitt and Annie which only escalates as they sort out the confusion.
Needless to say, there’s more to the playboy Emmitt than his banter and record of numerous women. He discovered he had a daughter when she was 5 years old and the mother was marrying Dr Grayson Tanner. He had known Michelle since childhood and her brother Levi is still his best friend. After Michelle’s untimely death the three men step up to care for 15 year old Paisley Rhodes-Bradley.
This is a delightful story about how 2 people discover a new perspective on love, family and friendship. How do you balance a work life and a social life? Is being a workaholic really an effective coping mechanism? Happiness often comes after self reflection.
I enjoyed the light, playful cover which aptly displays the story you’re about to read. I fell in love with the characters right away. The confusion placing Ahn Nhi Walsh in the unexpected path of Emmitt Bradley is a perfect storm! This is the perfect escape from life for awhile book.
Anh Nhi Walsh is a physician’s assistant was adopted from Vietnam by two renowned therapists living in Hartford, CT. Most people call her “Annie� since saying her name often proves challenging. She thought her life was falling into place as she anxiously prepared for her wedding. She had just picked up her grandmother Hannah’s silk Grecian 1941 wedding gown which was bought in Ireland. She had it meticulously restored at Bliss boutique so she could feel comforted by her belated grandmother’s presence at her wedding.
Her life is turned sideways when she wakes up 3 months before her wedding, which also happens to be her grandparents wedding anniversary, to find her fiancé Dr Clark Atwood gone. He breaks their engagement via a text with a “it’s not you, it’s me� line. She doesn’t even have time to recover from the shock when she sees an Instagram post of her ex-fiancé and his “true love� newly engaged. While Annie is attempting to cancel venues and request refunds she is appalled to find that Clark has replaced her with Molly-Leigh.
It’s only when she tries on her wedding dress does she realizes that Clark has hijacked “her� wedding. He shared her wedding journal with Molly-Leigh who fell in love with all of Annie’s wedding plans including her grandmother’s heirloom gown! There was a mix up and her dress was restored to fit Molly-Leigh who is physically Annie’s opposite. If that weren’t enough, Clark tells her that her mother neglected to cancel the venue at the Hartford Club hoping they would reunite. After two years of waiting for a date she placed a $10k deposit which he states he will refund after his wedding there.
Annie finally thought she found her soul mate after five failed relationships. “Her life had been a nonstop revolving door of serial monogamists, each with a fatal flaw that kept him from finding the one.� Ultimately, when those relationships ended the men found their soul mate and married. Not wanting to face all the humiliation of the aftermath of this disaster, she gets a temporary travel position in Rome, RI.
Annie rents a cabin on the banks of Buzzard’s Bay where the owner is apparently oversees on assignment as a photojournalist. Emmitt Bradley is sent home from China after a concrete building explosion which resulted in a concussion, fractured ribs, and several shrapnel pieces that needed removal. Home on medical leave, he returns to his cottage unaware that his friend Levi rented it out to Annie for 6 months. As Annie is struggling to remove the too tight wedding gown after a heated phone call with Clark she is surprised by the presence of a big broad figure looming behind her. A hilarious interaction occurs between Emmitt and Annie which only escalates as they sort out the confusion.
Needless to say, there’s more to the playboy Emmitt than his banter and record of numerous women. He discovered he had a daughter when she was 5 years old and the mother was marrying Dr Grayson Tanner. He had known Michelle since childhood and her brother Levi is still his best friend. After Michelle’s untimely death the three men step up to care for 15 year old Paisley Rhodes-Bradley.
This is a delightful story about how 2 people discover a new perspective on love, family and friendship. How do you balance a work life and a social life? Is being a workaholic really an effective coping mechanism? Happiness often comes after self reflection.
November 5, 2021
Vaya, pues desde luego que ha sido exactamente lo que andaba buscando con esta lectura: muy entretenida, tierna, y con escenas de lo más entrañables y divertidas.
Me ha encantado conocer a Annie (Anh Nhi), sufrir con ella por lo imbécil que es su ex y por el morro que tiene, ser testigo de sus problemas, de su necesidad de encontrar un lugar al que pertenecer, y de cómo el ser adoptada, y que le hubieran separado de sus raÃces la ha afectado, y por supuesto, me ha encantado ver su evolución a lo largo de la novela, cómo avanza, y cómo abraza sus sentimientos y su realidad.
Por su parte, tal vez me haya costado un poco más conectar con Emmitt, pero aun asà sus interacciones con su hija, y con la propia Annie han sido oro puro, me ha gustado muchÃsimo los diálogos que derivaban de esas escenas, y cómo él también es capaz de cambiar para darle lo mejor a su hija. Asimismo, el romance es potente y ardiente, lo que siempre es genial :P
Reseña completa:
Me ha encantado conocer a Annie (Anh Nhi), sufrir con ella por lo imbécil que es su ex y por el morro que tiene, ser testigo de sus problemas, de su necesidad de encontrar un lugar al que pertenecer, y de cómo el ser adoptada, y que le hubieran separado de sus raÃces la ha afectado, y por supuesto, me ha encantado ver su evolución a lo largo de la novela, cómo avanza, y cómo abraza sus sentimientos y su realidad.
Por su parte, tal vez me haya costado un poco más conectar con Emmitt, pero aun asà sus interacciones con su hija, y con la propia Annie han sido oro puro, me ha gustado muchÃsimo los diálogos que derivaban de esas escenas, y cómo él también es capaz de cambiar para darle lo mejor a su hija. Asimismo, el romance es potente y ardiente, lo que siempre es genial :P
Reseña completa:
April 21, 2021
Una comedia romantica encantadora,me ha gustado mucho,lo recomiendo
September 25, 2020
3.5 stars, rounded up to 4. I very much enjoyed the writing style, plot and character development, but the story had pacing issues with lulls of too much information. The writing style was the redeeming quality that saved it from my overflowing pool of 3 star reviews. Some parts reminded me of Beach Read (which was disappointing) but overall this was much better. In my head, it played out like a Hallmark movie...probably one I'd watch over and over, and after finishing it, I found out that some of the author's previous work HAS been turned into a Hallmark movie. Lol. Enjoyable and endearing overall.
Thank you to Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ Firstreads for offering this book free to review.
Thank you to Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ Firstreads for offering this book free to review.
September 1, 2020
I, absolutely loved this book!
Anh Nhi Walsh (Annie) is reeling from a recent breakup, an almost- walked- down- the- aisle- saying- I- do fiasco is more like it! Annie is a PA, and left Connecticut to work in Rome, Rhode Island to take a man-break and get away from her mother, who wants nothing better than to set her up again. Annie is also hoping this move will help her find herself. She was adopted at a young age, and views herself as in-betweener, growing up with white parents and having an Asian ethnicity.
Annie is in her rental trying on what should've been her wedding dress that doesn't fit, on the phone informing, Clark, her ex, that she needs him to refund what he owes her. As she is standing there in her undergarments contemplating, she finds she's not alone.
Emmitt Bradley, an investigative photojournalist, injured while covering a story in China comes home to find a fiery petite woman barely dressed and trying to injure him again slinging her stiletto heels at his head. Unknown to Emmitt, his best friend Levi, forgot to mention that his cabin was rented out.
Annie knows exactly Emmitt's character type, because since she's been living in the cabin, she's had to take messages, and the phone has been ringing off the hook. She's come to see herself as the type to find a great guy, only to be dumped because they finally found their "person". Emmitt is this perfect package without a forever after, and Annie wants nothing to do with him!
Emmitt sees himself as a straight shooter, he makes no promises to any woman, although many think they can be 'the one' to get a ring from him. The only female, that Emmitt is committed to, is his fifteen year old daughter, Paisley. Since his job takes him all over, Emmitt is part of a third, because he shares Paisley with Dr. Gray Tanner, who is Paisley's step-dad, and his best friend, Levi Rhodes, who is Paisley's uncle.
When Michelle Tanner, passed away suddenly, the three males banned together to take care of Paisley. Emmitt is finding out that he's a little out of his league trying to deal with a teenager, who has discovered boys and is also grieving. In trying to reconnect with his daughter, he seems to push her further away.
Despite Annie's attempts to push Emmitt away, he's intrigued by her. And decides it's best if he stays in his cabin to ruffle Annie's feathers.
Hilarity follows by the push and push back between Annie and Emmitt. One thing is for certain, sparks fly too. As Annie helps Emmitt work on his relationship with his daughter, their agreement leads to them being friends and trust. One secret can tear it all apart and crush both their hearts.
This is the first book I've read by Marina Adair, and won't be the last! I can't wait for the second book!
Thank you to Kensington-books for providing me with a free copy. I have voluntarily reviewed this book.
#BetweenTheChapters #RomeanticallyChallenged
Anh Nhi Walsh (Annie) is reeling from a recent breakup, an almost- walked- down- the- aisle- saying- I- do fiasco is more like it! Annie is a PA, and left Connecticut to work in Rome, Rhode Island to take a man-break and get away from her mother, who wants nothing better than to set her up again. Annie is also hoping this move will help her find herself. She was adopted at a young age, and views herself as in-betweener, growing up with white parents and having an Asian ethnicity.
Annie is in her rental trying on what should've been her wedding dress that doesn't fit, on the phone informing, Clark, her ex, that she needs him to refund what he owes her. As she is standing there in her undergarments contemplating, she finds she's not alone.
Emmitt Bradley, an investigative photojournalist, injured while covering a story in China comes home to find a fiery petite woman barely dressed and trying to injure him again slinging her stiletto heels at his head. Unknown to Emmitt, his best friend Levi, forgot to mention that his cabin was rented out.
Annie knows exactly Emmitt's character type, because since she's been living in the cabin, she's had to take messages, and the phone has been ringing off the hook. She's come to see herself as the type to find a great guy, only to be dumped because they finally found their "person". Emmitt is this perfect package without a forever after, and Annie wants nothing to do with him!
Emmitt sees himself as a straight shooter, he makes no promises to any woman, although many think they can be 'the one' to get a ring from him. The only female, that Emmitt is committed to, is his fifteen year old daughter, Paisley. Since his job takes him all over, Emmitt is part of a third, because he shares Paisley with Dr. Gray Tanner, who is Paisley's step-dad, and his best friend, Levi Rhodes, who is Paisley's uncle.
When Michelle Tanner, passed away suddenly, the three males banned together to take care of Paisley. Emmitt is finding out that he's a little out of his league trying to deal with a teenager, who has discovered boys and is also grieving. In trying to reconnect with his daughter, he seems to push her further away.
Despite Annie's attempts to push Emmitt away, he's intrigued by her. And decides it's best if he stays in his cabin to ruffle Annie's feathers.
Hilarity follows by the push and push back between Annie and Emmitt. One thing is for certain, sparks fly too. As Annie helps Emmitt work on his relationship with his daughter, their agreement leads to them being friends and trust. One secret can tear it all apart and crush both their hearts.
This is the first book I've read by Marina Adair, and won't be the last! I can't wait for the second book!
Thank you to Kensington-books for providing me with a free copy. I have voluntarily reviewed this book.
#BetweenTheChapters #RomeanticallyChallenged
April 22, 2020
This is one of those titles where the blurb doesn’t fit the story within. Yes you do have a newly single physician’s assistant involved but that’s about as close as it gets. Is it still a good story, yes. Just not on what you may initially think.
I felt like I was reading two different stories. The first 35% we are solely with Annie (whom suffers from a female version of “good luck chuck�) who has just been dumped by the love of her life a short time before the wedding. Via text no less. It becomes a series of lets see just how horrible of a person we can make the ex out to be. The way her parents reacted to this situation really blew my mind. The reason for their behavior later in the book didn’t justify it at all for me. Annie is a complicated character. She comes across as a serious pushover but in other aspects shes mouthy, kind, crazy, moody..I couldn’t pin her down to a predominant personality
In the rest of the book you’re following Emmitt. A photojournalist that introduces with a bit of a frat-boy personality. We quickly learn there is a lot more to him then meets the eye. He had a brief relationship that ended up with a child that he did not know about for the first few years of her life. He and the woman split, married and thought the child was the other mans. No hard feelings were involved but he did his best to be involved in her life the best he could given his job takes him all over the world. (enter three men and a baby reference with this group)
Annie is still present but Emmitt’s storyarc becomes the stronger of the two. It’s a great story. I wish it would have been the main focus of the book with Annie coming in where Emmitt did instead. It would have made the ending struggle work so much better if this had been Emmitt’s story instead of Annie’s. Co-Parenting can be a really difficult subject especially when there are broken families involved. This book shows the ups and downs and how to address it in a healthy manner.
If I were to rate this on the overall flow, writing and story It would be around a three.
Annie’s story would be around a 2.75. She goes through a lot yes but her story felt like it consisted mostly of tropes. I hate saying that as in the authors note its supposed to be a tale about finding herself and understanding her heritage. I just did not get that at all save for a couple of small anicdotes.
Emmitt’s story close 4 but not quite there. He goes through a lot of growth as a person. Had the stronger story. There were a few things I would rearrange or change the focus on but I enjoyed his side of the things far more. Its not a side of life that you see written much and it was handled really well.
Not the story I was expecting but a decent book for what it is.
I felt like I was reading two different stories. The first 35% we are solely with Annie (whom suffers from a female version of “good luck chuck�) who has just been dumped by the love of her life a short time before the wedding. Via text no less. It becomes a series of lets see just how horrible of a person we can make the ex out to be. The way her parents reacted to this situation really blew my mind. The reason for their behavior later in the book didn’t justify it at all for me. Annie is a complicated character. She comes across as a serious pushover but in other aspects shes mouthy, kind, crazy, moody..I couldn’t pin her down to a predominant personality
In the rest of the book you’re following Emmitt. A photojournalist that introduces with a bit of a frat-boy personality. We quickly learn there is a lot more to him then meets the eye. He had a brief relationship that ended up with a child that he did not know about for the first few years of her life. He and the woman split, married and thought the child was the other mans. No hard feelings were involved but he did his best to be involved in her life the best he could given his job takes him all over the world. (enter three men and a baby reference with this group)
Annie is still present but Emmitt’s storyarc becomes the stronger of the two. It’s a great story. I wish it would have been the main focus of the book with Annie coming in where Emmitt did instead. It would have made the ending struggle work so much better if this had been Emmitt’s story instead of Annie’s. Co-Parenting can be a really difficult subject especially when there are broken families involved. This book shows the ups and downs and how to address it in a healthy manner.
If I were to rate this on the overall flow, writing and story It would be around a three.
Annie’s story would be around a 2.75. She goes through a lot yes but her story felt like it consisted mostly of tropes. I hate saying that as in the authors note its supposed to be a tale about finding herself and understanding her heritage. I just did not get that at all save for a couple of small anicdotes.
Emmitt’s story close 4 but not quite there. He goes through a lot of growth as a person. Had the stronger story. There were a few things I would rearrange or change the focus on but I enjoyed his side of the things far more. Its not a side of life that you see written much and it was handled really well.
Not the story I was expecting but a decent book for what it is.
May 13, 2020
I received RomeAntically Challenged as part of a Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ giveaway.
Ahn Nhi "Annie" Walsh, on the heels of a cancelled wedding and an ex who almost immediately got engaged to another woman, lands a temporary physician's assistant in Rome, Rhode Island, in an effort for a new beginning. Her fresh start is interrupted, however, by Emmitt, a photojournalist recovering from an on-the-job injury and trying to parent a teenage daughter in concert with her two other surrogate fathers. The pair find themselves as unwitting roommates, until they begin to bond over their respective baggage and discover a common attraction.
This novel had a lot going on, and as a result it felt a little slapdash. Emmitt's relationship with Paisley and her other fathers, his baggage with his own father, his physical recovery, Annie's complicated feelings about her adoption, her immersion into a Vietnamese community, Paisley's school and relationship drama...and this was all in addition to Emmitt and Annie's developing relationship. With all the other storylines, I felt like the love plot got a little lost. I liked the characterizations and some of the storylines that were explored, but I do think the novel would have benefitted from being pared down a bit more.
Ahn Nhi "Annie" Walsh, on the heels of a cancelled wedding and an ex who almost immediately got engaged to another woman, lands a temporary physician's assistant in Rome, Rhode Island, in an effort for a new beginning. Her fresh start is interrupted, however, by Emmitt, a photojournalist recovering from an on-the-job injury and trying to parent a teenage daughter in concert with her two other surrogate fathers. The pair find themselves as unwitting roommates, until they begin to bond over their respective baggage and discover a common attraction.
This novel had a lot going on, and as a result it felt a little slapdash. Emmitt's relationship with Paisley and her other fathers, his baggage with his own father, his physical recovery, Annie's complicated feelings about her adoption, her immersion into a Vietnamese community, Paisley's school and relationship drama...and this was all in addition to Emmitt and Annie's developing relationship. With all the other storylines, I felt like the love plot got a little lost. I liked the characterizations and some of the storylines that were explored, but I do think the novel would have benefitted from being pared down a bit more.
September 22, 2020
What a breath of fresh air!
"Other people's choices are not a reflection on me."
Annie Walsh is an ER physician's assistant who moved to Rome, Rhode Island (not Italy) to start a new life. Her heart was broken (once again) by her boyfriend Dr. Clark Atwood, whom she worked with for six years. They were supposed to be married.
Enter Emmitt Bradley, an investigative photojournalist who came home after a recent stint in China that went kaboom. Now he is on medical leave. While back home in Rome, Rhode Island, Emmitt is determined to win her daughter back whom he has not seen in years. Paisley, Emmitt's 15-year-old daughter, is going through adolescent discovery of herself. Little did Emmitt know, the sweet little Paisley he knew years ago is no longer the same. Emmitt is at a loss. He didn't realize the challenge he is going into with him being away from Paisley's life growing up and the other two dads he is competing with Paisley's love and affection. Emmitt would do anything he possibly can to rekindle his relationship with his daughter like never before.
My oh my... First of all, I am very much drawn to Annie's character. She is an Asian woman born in Vietnam and raised by white parents in a white community. She dubbed her situation as being an "In-Bee" (in betweener) meaning falling somewhere in between which resulted to being stereotyped and often misjudged. She's adopted but not a single day in her life had she felt she was not loved. There are so much in Annie's character that I can relate to. What I loved most is how I share her desire to find meaningful connection and how she always puts others first before herself.
"Her mother had once explained that when people struggle to understand someone different from themselves, they find comfort in labels."
Emmitt and Paisley's story is another part of the book I liked most. Father-daughter relationships that is trying to endure is always a tearjerker for me. While the author was able to depict Paisley as your typical teenager—rebellious, trying to understand herself, and trying her best to communicate her feelings� I like that Annie shared she wasn't acting out the same as Paisley at her age. Because I wasn't like that at all when I was 15 years old. Several a-ha moments during Emmitt and Paisley's dialogue. One wouldn't realize how hard it is for Paisley to juggle three dads who have all the love in the world for her.
"Every girl should be so lucky as to have this much love surrounding her."
And of course, I can't miss out the part of Annie and Emmitt's romance. It is sweet, light, funny, and quirky. I like that the author gave each character just the right amount and attention, specially Annie and Emmitt. They have their own lives and did not focus too much on their newly found romance. There is balance and the author allowed each character to develop throughout the book. This to me, deserves five starts!
All the main characters: Annie, Emmitt, Paisley, Gray, Levi, Les, Maura and Marty, as well as the supporting characters: Nurse Tran, Beckett, Clark, and Molly-Leigh are close to my heart. I am holding them here in my heart that I will reach out to I'm feeling a bit low or just wanting to remember something uplifting. The characters are adorable, light, refreshing, small town feel, that it brings back the joy and light in you.
Highly recommended for those who love rom-coms, large pepperoni pizza, green olives, and vanilla ice cream.
"...and Annie was no longer afraid to be one of a kind, because with Emmitt she was perfectly happy to be exactly who she was—living and loving and thriving in the in-between."
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Kensington Books, author Marina Adair and Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ giveaways for this wonderful story.
See more reviews in myÌý
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"Other people's choices are not a reflection on me."
Annie Walsh is an ER physician's assistant who moved to Rome, Rhode Island (not Italy) to start a new life. Her heart was broken (once again) by her boyfriend Dr. Clark Atwood, whom she worked with for six years. They were supposed to be married.
Enter Emmitt Bradley, an investigative photojournalist who came home after a recent stint in China that went kaboom. Now he is on medical leave. While back home in Rome, Rhode Island, Emmitt is determined to win her daughter back whom he has not seen in years. Paisley, Emmitt's 15-year-old daughter, is going through adolescent discovery of herself. Little did Emmitt know, the sweet little Paisley he knew years ago is no longer the same. Emmitt is at a loss. He didn't realize the challenge he is going into with him being away from Paisley's life growing up and the other two dads he is competing with Paisley's love and affection. Emmitt would do anything he possibly can to rekindle his relationship with his daughter like never before.
My oh my... First of all, I am very much drawn to Annie's character. She is an Asian woman born in Vietnam and raised by white parents in a white community. She dubbed her situation as being an "In-Bee" (in betweener) meaning falling somewhere in between which resulted to being stereotyped and often misjudged. She's adopted but not a single day in her life had she felt she was not loved. There are so much in Annie's character that I can relate to. What I loved most is how I share her desire to find meaningful connection and how she always puts others first before herself.
"Her mother had once explained that when people struggle to understand someone different from themselves, they find comfort in labels."
Emmitt and Paisley's story is another part of the book I liked most. Father-daughter relationships that is trying to endure is always a tearjerker for me. While the author was able to depict Paisley as your typical teenager—rebellious, trying to understand herself, and trying her best to communicate her feelings� I like that Annie shared she wasn't acting out the same as Paisley at her age. Because I wasn't like that at all when I was 15 years old. Several a-ha moments during Emmitt and Paisley's dialogue. One wouldn't realize how hard it is for Paisley to juggle three dads who have all the love in the world for her.
"Every girl should be so lucky as to have this much love surrounding her."
And of course, I can't miss out the part of Annie and Emmitt's romance. It is sweet, light, funny, and quirky. I like that the author gave each character just the right amount and attention, specially Annie and Emmitt. They have their own lives and did not focus too much on their newly found romance. There is balance and the author allowed each character to develop throughout the book. This to me, deserves five starts!
All the main characters: Annie, Emmitt, Paisley, Gray, Levi, Les, Maura and Marty, as well as the supporting characters: Nurse Tran, Beckett, Clark, and Molly-Leigh are close to my heart. I am holding them here in my heart that I will reach out to I'm feeling a bit low or just wanting to remember something uplifting. The characters are adorable, light, refreshing, small town feel, that it brings back the joy and light in you.
Highly recommended for those who love rom-coms, large pepperoni pizza, green olives, and vanilla ice cream.
"...and Annie was no longer afraid to be one of a kind, because with Emmitt she was perfectly happy to be exactly who she was—living and loving and thriving in the in-between."
I would like to extend my heartfelt gratitude to Kensington Books, author Marina Adair and Å·±¦ÓéÀÖ giveaways for this wonderful story.
See more reviews in myÌý
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July 20, 2020
Annie fled to Rome in order to put some distance between her and her former fiancee. With her track record being what it was, she had sworn off men. But when the homeowner of her rental, Emmitt, unexpectedly returned, she found herself wanting to make an exception to her no-men rule.
The synopsis for this book compares it to 27 Dresses and Three Men and a Baby, and I had no problem finding those threads in the story, but it was the focus on what-makes-a-family and feeling as if you belong that really stole my heart.
Annie was nursing a bit of a broken heart, and let me tell you, each additional detail made my heart break, more and more. She was always the woman the men dated just before they found their "soulmate", and it was easy to see why she started seeing herself as the problem. She was also dealing with a lifetime of feeling as though she never belonged. She had been adopted as an infant by white parents, and though she knew she was loved, she was always aware of her "otherness" and never quite felt like she fit in anywhere. Her time in Rome was not only filled with romance, but also with a lot of soul searching and trying to figure herself out. I loved seeing her connect with the local Vietnamese community, but I especially liked seeing her connect with Emmitt.
Emmitt was also felt a bit on the outside, and was struggling with finding his place within his family. You see, his family situation was a bit unique. He shared his daughter with two other men, thus the Three Men and a Baby parallel. Emmitt was the fun dad and was often absent due to traveling for his job. The other two were the always-home-dads, who took care of the day-to-day things. Though the arrangement had worked in the past, Emmitt now found himself wanting more. He wanted to be a bigger part of his daughter's life, and he wanted to be seen as someone who could be more than the part-time fun guy. There was a lot more to Emmitt than I gathered from my initial impression and I really grew to love him as he worked to change the perception his family held of him.
It was a rocky start between Emmitt and Annie, when he just showed up unexpectedly. With both of them refusing to vacate the house, they were thrust into one of those forced proximity situations. This produced a LOT of fun antics and laughs, while also resulting in some fantastic tension between Emmitt and Annie. The verbal sparring was so enjoyable, and it filled my heart with joy as that sparring turned to flirting and then to more. It was wonderful watching these two find a place to belong, and I loved that they belonged there together.
This book was a delight! It had the perfect combination of warmth, humor, charm, drama, and heat. I loved the what-makes-a-family angle, and am hoping the other two dads get their own HEAs too.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
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The synopsis for this book compares it to 27 Dresses and Three Men and a Baby, and I had no problem finding those threads in the story, but it was the focus on what-makes-a-family and feeling as if you belong that really stole my heart.
Annie was nursing a bit of a broken heart, and let me tell you, each additional detail made my heart break, more and more. She was always the woman the men dated just before they found their "soulmate", and it was easy to see why she started seeing herself as the problem. She was also dealing with a lifetime of feeling as though she never belonged. She had been adopted as an infant by white parents, and though she knew she was loved, she was always aware of her "otherness" and never quite felt like she fit in anywhere. Her time in Rome was not only filled with romance, but also with a lot of soul searching and trying to figure herself out. I loved seeing her connect with the local Vietnamese community, but I especially liked seeing her connect with Emmitt.
Emmitt was also felt a bit on the outside, and was struggling with finding his place within his family. You see, his family situation was a bit unique. He shared his daughter with two other men, thus the Three Men and a Baby parallel. Emmitt was the fun dad and was often absent due to traveling for his job. The other two were the always-home-dads, who took care of the day-to-day things. Though the arrangement had worked in the past, Emmitt now found himself wanting more. He wanted to be a bigger part of his daughter's life, and he wanted to be seen as someone who could be more than the part-time fun guy. There was a lot more to Emmitt than I gathered from my initial impression and I really grew to love him as he worked to change the perception his family held of him.
It was a rocky start between Emmitt and Annie, when he just showed up unexpectedly. With both of them refusing to vacate the house, they were thrust into one of those forced proximity situations. This produced a LOT of fun antics and laughs, while also resulting in some fantastic tension between Emmitt and Annie. The verbal sparring was so enjoyable, and it filled my heart with joy as that sparring turned to flirting and then to more. It was wonderful watching these two find a place to belong, and I loved that they belonged there together.
This book was a delight! It had the perfect combination of warmth, humor, charm, drama, and heat. I loved the what-makes-a-family angle, and am hoping the other two dads get their own HEAs too.
*ARC provided in exchange for an honest review.
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November 25, 2023
Una comedia romántica muy divertida con mucha quÃmica entre los protagonistas. De este tipo de libros que más me gusta es que antes que pareja son amigos.... Se explican sus miedos, sus inseguridades, esas cosas que no explican ni a su gente más cercana, se apoyan incondicionalmente, se entienden casi sin tener que hablar y se pican continuamente. Todo eso sin dejar de lado la atracción que existen entre ellos. He disfrutado mucho.
La única pega que me ha faltado un epÃlogo.
La recomiendo sin ninguna duda
La única pega que me ha faltado un epÃlogo.
La recomiendo sin ninguna duda
June 13, 2021
Annie is an interesting heroine, and I enjoyed when they addressed her issues of identity and family. However, she worked harder on the self-involved H's life than her own, and settled for passive acceptance of things in her own life where she needed to show strength. It's hard to admire her. The book ended with the H still a poor risk. 2.5 stars
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
January 1, 2021
This book was super cute! It was a pretty standard typical romance with a single dad with teenage daughter, the daughter was my favorite (no surprise right?) but the banter between the main characters were pretty adorable. There was a bit of deeper backstory for both of them but the book focuses more of their friendship-turned relationship more than their backstory plots. This book also has a bit if "play boy settles down by a cute girl" kinda vibes and that is why I really liked this book. I am excited to read the next book that is set in the same town and follows the uncle of the teenaged girl.
July 26, 2020
I was hooked from the first line. "The moment Ahn Nhi Walsh stepped into her wedding dress and shimmied the eighty-year-old silk over her hips, she knew there had been a mistake." What follows has to be one of the most horrifying conversations with an ex-fiance ever. I was literally holding my breath that this book was *not* about the two of them getting back together. Her parents also continued a cordial relationship with her ex which astonished and infuriated me.
Ahn Nhi (usually called Annie) was adopted at birth from Vietnam by her white American family and raised as an American. However, other people make assumptions about her based on her appearance, and she has never felt like she fit in anywhere. She decided to move after the break-up, but accidentally accepted a job in the wrong Rome. It wasn't Italy but she liked her job, and found a cabin to rent while the owner was overseas.
Emmitt, the owner, had been injured while overseas on assignment as a photojournalist, and had come back to his hometown to convalesce and to spend time with his daughter. He didn't know that his brother-in-law had found a renter for his cabin. Emmitt and Annie's meeting was hysterically funny. Let's just say that both of them were surprised.
Emmitt's daughter Paisley had been raised by her mother and stepfather, and had recently lost her mother. It was fun to see these three men - Emmitt, her stepdad, and her uncle - trying to parent 16 year old Paisley who is running rings around them. They are such good guys and so clueless about 16 year old girls. I loved their poker games where they played for stakes like 'cook dinner' and 'empty dishwasher'.
Emmitt and Annie seem to be opposites, but turn out to be looking for much the same things in life. I enjoyed reading this book very much and recommend it to any romance lover who likes a complex emotional story with vivid characters, conflict, character growth and laugh out loud humor. This was my first book by this author but it won't be my last. I am hoping that this is first of a series, as I would like to see some of the other characters get their books.
Thank you, Kensington and Netgalley, for allowing me to read and review an advance reading copy of this book. These are my honest opinions.
Ahn Nhi (usually called Annie) was adopted at birth from Vietnam by her white American family and raised as an American. However, other people make assumptions about her based on her appearance, and she has never felt like she fit in anywhere. She decided to move after the break-up, but accidentally accepted a job in the wrong Rome. It wasn't Italy but she liked her job, and found a cabin to rent while the owner was overseas.
Emmitt, the owner, had been injured while overseas on assignment as a photojournalist, and had come back to his hometown to convalesce and to spend time with his daughter. He didn't know that his brother-in-law had found a renter for his cabin. Emmitt and Annie's meeting was hysterically funny. Let's just say that both of them were surprised.
Emmitt's daughter Paisley had been raised by her mother and stepfather, and had recently lost her mother. It was fun to see these three men - Emmitt, her stepdad, and her uncle - trying to parent 16 year old Paisley who is running rings around them. They are such good guys and so clueless about 16 year old girls. I loved their poker games where they played for stakes like 'cook dinner' and 'empty dishwasher'.
Emmitt and Annie seem to be opposites, but turn out to be looking for much the same things in life. I enjoyed reading this book very much and recommend it to any romance lover who likes a complex emotional story with vivid characters, conflict, character growth and laugh out loud humor. This was my first book by this author but it won't be my last. I am hoping that this is first of a series, as I would like to see some of the other characters get their books.
Thank you, Kensington and Netgalley, for allowing me to read and review an advance reading copy of this book. These are my honest opinions.
March 3, 2021
3,5🌟
Me gustó mucho la historia sobre Emmitt y su hija. La evolución de la pareja es bastante linda, de esas que van poco a poco. Se me hizo pesado por momentos y en final fue MUY APRESURADO. Faltó un epÃlogo, y ni hablar de cierto tema que insinuaron durante toda la novela y después NADA. Falta más dramita pero bien.
Me gustó mucho la historia sobre Emmitt y su hija. La evolución de la pareja es bastante linda, de esas que van poco a poco. Se me hizo pesado por momentos y en final fue MUY APRESURADO. Faltó un epÃlogo, y ni hablar de cierto tema que insinuaron durante toda la novela y después NADA. Falta más dramita pero bien.
November 1, 2021
Oof. This book. Here's the thing - Annie's story on it's own is good. She has a lot of self esteem issues and her story is her addressing those and standing up for herself. Emmet's story on it's own is good. He's a bad father, an even worse friend (seriously - wow), and is all around just a selfish jerk and womanizer. His story is him fully realizing all this and trying to change for the better.
But for some reason the author decided this needed to be a fun and banter filled romance (?) and that just really failed for me. I mean, Emmet's friend begs him to not get together with the tenant because it will cause all sorts of problems not just for the friend but for EMMET'S DAUGHTER if he does, and yet his reaction is to immediately take that as a challenge to get with her?
I was bothered by a lot of his interactions with Annie, starting with the first. When they first meet, she doesn't know who he is, just suddenly there's a strange man inside the house she rented. Then we have some stupid banter which ends with him pinning her to a wall with her hands over her head. I mean, come on. She should be terrified and screaming bloody murder at this point, but we're supposed to find it funny and/or sexy (not really sure what the author was going for here). Then he sexually harasses her over text (she didn't give him her number either - he got it from the rental agreement). Just lovely (not) stuff like that.
But what really bothered me was how uncaring and selfish he was with his friends. The two guys who have been and currently are putting in much more time and effort to raise his daughter than he is. The story line of him treating his friends badly I would have been ok with because it was presented in a serious manner, but too many times we'd then get to him and Annie and suddenly it's all witty banter and sex and all I could think of was what an absolute shit head this guy is and I'm supposed to find him amusing? Nope.
So yeah, not my thing I guess. I did like the individual stories, and would have rated it much higher if the author had stuck to those.
But for some reason the author decided this needed to be a fun and banter filled romance (?) and that just really failed for me. I mean, Emmet's friend begs him to not get together with the tenant because it will cause all sorts of problems not just for the friend but for EMMET'S DAUGHTER if he does, and yet his reaction is to immediately take that as a challenge to get with her?
I was bothered by a lot of his interactions with Annie, starting with the first. When they first meet, she doesn't know who he is, just suddenly there's a strange man inside the house she rented. Then we have some stupid banter which ends with him pinning her to a wall with her hands over her head. I mean, come on. She should be terrified and screaming bloody murder at this point, but we're supposed to find it funny and/or sexy (not really sure what the author was going for here). Then he sexually harasses her over text (she didn't give him her number either - he got it from the rental agreement). Just lovely (not) stuff like that.
But what really bothered me was how uncaring and selfish he was with his friends. The two guys who have been and currently are putting in much more time and effort to raise his daughter than he is. The story line of him treating his friends badly I would have been ok with because it was presented in a serious manner, but too many times we'd then get to him and Annie and suddenly it's all witty banter and sex and all I could think of was what an absolute shit head this guy is and I'm supposed to find him amusing? Nope.
So yeah, not my thing I guess. I did like the individual stories, and would have rated it much higher if the author had stuck to those.
September 15, 2020
You know exactly what you’re getting with a book like this. You see that cover, that cheeky misspelling of a word in the title and the blurb and there’s nothing to surprise you.
It does its job well. It’s cute, and though you know what to expect you just tag along for the ride. What drops the score so low for me was Emmitt’s absolutely atrocious flirting.
I don’t know what the inspiration was for him but my goodness he came off like a 13 year old learning about sex for the first time. There was no subtlety whatsoever, and frankly if a guy came on to me the way he did to Anh I would’ve felt incredibly uncomfortable. That’s the kind of shit you see guys do in Vegas clubs while their hands try to wander wherever you’ll let them. It wasn’t cute and it certainly didn’t make me like him as a character.
Once he chilled out and actually started talking to Anh as a person he was much easier to stomach and I found him more relatable.
All in all not a bad novel, but not one I’ll remember beyond a month from now.
It does its job well. It’s cute, and though you know what to expect you just tag along for the ride. What drops the score so low for me was Emmitt’s absolutely atrocious flirting.
I don’t know what the inspiration was for him but my goodness he came off like a 13 year old learning about sex for the first time. There was no subtlety whatsoever, and frankly if a guy came on to me the way he did to Anh I would’ve felt incredibly uncomfortable. That’s the kind of shit you see guys do in Vegas clubs while their hands try to wander wherever you’ll let them. It wasn’t cute and it certainly didn’t make me like him as a character.
Once he chilled out and actually started talking to Anh as a person he was much easier to stomach and I found him more relatable.
All in all not a bad novel, but not one I’ll remember beyond a month from now.
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