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Dating in Dallas #1
Here to Stay
Starting over is more about who you’re with than where you live�
Julia del Mar Ortiz is not having the best year.
She moved to Dallas with her boyfriend, who ended up ditching her and running back to New York after only a few weeks. Left with a massive—by NYC standards, anyway—apartment and a car lease in the scorching Texas heat, Julia is struggling…except that’s not completely true. Running the charitable foundation of one of the most iconic high fashion department stores in the world is serious #lifegoals.
It’s more than enough to make her want to stick it out down South.
The only monkey wrench in Julia’s plans is the blue-eyed, smart-mouthed consultant the store hired to take them public. Fellow New Yorker Rocco Quinn’s first order of business? Putting Julia’s job on the chopping block.
When Julia is tasked with making sure Rocco sees how valuable the programs she runs are, she’s caught between a rock and a very hard set of abs. Because Rocco Quinn is almost impossible to hate—and even harder to resist.
Julia del Mar Ortiz is not having the best year.
She moved to Dallas with her boyfriend, who ended up ditching her and running back to New York after only a few weeks. Left with a massive—by NYC standards, anyway—apartment and a car lease in the scorching Texas heat, Julia is struggling…except that’s not completely true. Running the charitable foundation of one of the most iconic high fashion department stores in the world is serious #lifegoals.
It’s more than enough to make her want to stick it out down South.
The only monkey wrench in Julia’s plans is the blue-eyed, smart-mouthed consultant the store hired to take them public. Fellow New Yorker Rocco Quinn’s first order of business? Putting Julia’s job on the chopping block.
When Julia is tasked with making sure Rocco sees how valuable the programs she runs are, she’s caught between a rock and a very hard set of abs. Because Rocco Quinn is almost impossible to hate—and even harder to resist.
393 pages, Kindle Edition
First published August 25, 2020
105 people are currently reading
2,102 people want to read
About the author
Adriana Herrera
45books1,539followersUSA Today bestselling author ADRIANA HERRERA was born and raised in the Caribbean, but for the last 15 years has let her job (and her spouse) take her all over the world. She loves writing stories about people who look and sound like her people, getting unapologetic happy endings.
Her debut Dreamers, has been featured on Entertainment Weekly, NPR, the TODAY Show on NBC, The New York Times, The Washington Post and Oprah Magazine.
When she's not dreaming up love stories, planning logistically complex vacations with her family or hunting for discount Broadway tickets, she’s a social worker in New York City, working with survivors of domestic and sexual violence.
Her debut Dreamers, has been featured on Entertainment Weekly, NPR, the TODAY Show on NBC, The New York Times, The Washington Post and Oprah Magazine.
When she's not dreaming up love stories, planning logistically complex vacations with her family or hunting for discount Broadway tickets, she’s a social worker in New York City, working with survivors of domestic and sexual violence.
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Displaying 1 - 30 of 334 reviews
August 21, 2020
4 stars
There isn't much I love more in books than the found family troupe, and Adriana Hererra brought it with this book. Here to Stay is my first book by this author, but I'm excited to read more of her back list because I really enjoyed it!
Julia is a born and bred New Yorker who has been living in Texas for the last year or so. She loves her job, but she feels a little out of sorts there. She puts together a little club of ex-New Yorkers to feel more at home and it works better than she could have imagined. The only problem, the one guy in the group she can't seem to keep her eyes off of is Rocco Quinn, the guy who decides if her foundation job gets cut in a merger happening with her company.
Rocco has a life in NYC he can't give up. His time in Texas is only temporary. His sister and niece count on him and they're in the city still. He expects to do his job and go home. He doesn't expect Julia del Mar Oritz. He and Julia hit it off even though they shouldn't. Their attraction is mutual and their chemistry is undeniable. As much as they try to fight it, it's a lost battle.
I loved both Julia and Rocco and especially loved Julia's family and their NY Exile group of found family in Texas. This book kept a big smile on my face and I enjoyed it so much. I wasn't the biggest fan of all the businessdynamic, but I understood why it was necessary to the story. It was well written and character driven. I was so happy I made time to try this new to me author because I loved it!
If you're looking for a slow burn romance that is friends to lovers and will keep a smile on your face, check out Here to Stay!
There isn't much I love more in books than the found family troupe, and Adriana Hererra brought it with this book. Here to Stay is my first book by this author, but I'm excited to read more of her back list because I really enjoyed it!
Julia is a born and bred New Yorker who has been living in Texas for the last year or so. She loves her job, but she feels a little out of sorts there. She puts together a little club of ex-New Yorkers to feel more at home and it works better than she could have imagined. The only problem, the one guy in the group she can't seem to keep her eyes off of is Rocco Quinn, the guy who decides if her foundation job gets cut in a merger happening with her company.
Rocco has a life in NYC he can't give up. His time in Texas is only temporary. His sister and niece count on him and they're in the city still. He expects to do his job and go home. He doesn't expect Julia del Mar Oritz. He and Julia hit it off even though they shouldn't. Their attraction is mutual and their chemistry is undeniable. As much as they try to fight it, it's a lost battle.
“We can’t be a thing, Rocco.� She sighed, as she pressed herself to me. Before I kissed her, I had to say what she and I already knew. “We already are.�
I loved both Julia and Rocco and especially loved Julia's family and their NY Exile group of found family in Texas. This book kept a big smile on my face and I enjoyed it so much. I wasn't the biggest fan of all the businessdynamic, but I understood why it was necessary to the story. It was well written and character driven. I was so happy I made time to try this new to me author because I loved it!
If you're looking for a slow burn romance that is friends to lovers and will keep a smile on your face, check out Here to Stay!
August 22, 2020
Sassy. Steamy. Muy Caliente. Adriana Herrera wow what a fun and spicy story. Julia moved from NYC to Dallas TX for her boyfriend’s job. Now shortly there after said boyfriend moves back to NYC with a new girl, leaving Julia with a big apartment and a broken heart. But Julia has a great job running charitable programs for a big company, so she decides to make the best of it. Enter Rocco also from NYC his company has been hired to give the greenlight to Julia’s company to go public. And of course this means getting rid of the charitable programs that Julia is in charge of. So as you can see it’s complicated, but there is definitely some heat between these two. When Julia starts a meet up group for relocated New Yorkers, Rocco and she are drawn even closer to one another.
Loved both Julia and Rocco and was so wanting them to get together. Also adored the Gotham Exiles the meet up group that Julia formed. I am keeping my fingers crossed that they will all get their own stories. Julia’s family might have been loud and crazy, but they were so loving and caring. And the food, I was seriously craving Dominican food this entire book. Rocco‘s family situation was much more heartbreaking, but I did like his bond with his sister and niece. A Spicy steamy sassy story sure to make you smile. The audiobook was narrated by Carmen Vine and Sean Crisden. I love when a story told from multiple perspectives has dual narrators. They both did such a great job and added so much to an already great story. Especially appreciated the Spanish annunciation and the New York accent.
This book in emojis 👠 🐱 🌶 🍲 🍹 🔥 🗽👢
*** Big thank you to Corina Press and Harper Audio for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
Loved both Julia and Rocco and was so wanting them to get together. Also adored the Gotham Exiles the meet up group that Julia formed. I am keeping my fingers crossed that they will all get their own stories. Julia’s family might have been loud and crazy, but they were so loving and caring. And the food, I was seriously craving Dominican food this entire book. Rocco‘s family situation was much more heartbreaking, but I did like his bond with his sister and niece. A Spicy steamy sassy story sure to make you smile. The audiobook was narrated by Carmen Vine and Sean Crisden. I love when a story told from multiple perspectives has dual narrators. They both did such a great job and added so much to an already great story. Especially appreciated the Spanish annunciation and the New York accent.
This book in emojis 👠 🐱 🌶 🍲 🍹 🔥 🗽👢
*** Big thank you to Corina Press and Harper Audio for my gifted copy of this book. All opinions are my own. ***
August 4, 2020
Drama.... but the ending was good.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I know that an author has done a great job if I am enjoying myself while reading, I have been moved by something one way or another, and/or I have fallen for the swoony guy, just like Julia did.
This lighthearted read is a perfect diversion with Julia and her crazy, but loving family. She is stressed but loves her new job! And when she meets the guy she needs to impress, she is impressed by more than his work ethic.
Rocco is not only gorgeous, but he is so endearing too! It’s hard to dislike the guy not to mention he is so steamy too! The author manages to capture my attention with fun, memorable characters that blend perfectly together.
A good balance of office drama, including people you love to hate, personal drama � grrr, and beautiful, sexy connections that flow nicely and leave you with a smile.
Herrera has crafted an enjoyable, wee bit snarky, and fun story that is full of life.
* copy received for review
Full review -
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~
I know that an author has done a great job if I am enjoying myself while reading, I have been moved by something one way or another, and/or I have fallen for the swoony guy, just like Julia did.
This lighthearted read is a perfect diversion with Julia and her crazy, but loving family. She is stressed but loves her new job! And when she meets the guy she needs to impress, she is impressed by more than his work ethic.
Rocco is not only gorgeous, but he is so endearing too! It’s hard to dislike the guy not to mention he is so steamy too! The author manages to capture my attention with fun, memorable characters that blend perfectly together.
A good balance of office drama, including people you love to hate, personal drama � grrr, and beautiful, sexy connections that flow nicely and leave you with a smile.
Herrera has crafted an enjoyable, wee bit snarky, and fun story that is full of life.
* copy received for review
Full review -
September 5, 2020
Bursting with vivacious personalities, enjoyable moments, and fun loving characters Adriana Herrera creates such a smile worthy read in, Here To Stay. Determined to succeed in a new town after the unexpected end of her relationship, Julia swears off men and finds happiness in her dream job. However, when a smoldering colleague is tasked with restructuring the company not only is her program in danger, but her heart as well. A lovely read!
August 18, 2020
Check out all of my reviews at:
HERE TO STAY by Adriana Herrera is a contemporary romance that brings the heat. This is a standalone which could easily become a fun series with ethnic New Yorkers coming together for support and fun in their new surroundings of Dallas.
Julia del Mar’s year did not start out well, but she loves her new job running a charitable foundation and she is making her life in Dallas work. The foundation is run by one of the most iconic high fashion department stores in the world and which was family run, but the siblings have decided to go public.
Rocco Quinn is sent by his New York based consulting company to ready the chain to go public. Rocco is trying to stay above the family feud and do his job. The twins want the foundation to continue, but their younger brother wants it gone. And if the brother gets his way the beautiful Julia will lose her job.
Julia is tasked with introducing Rocco to all the programs the foundation runs. The heat generated between these two is explosive, but both know they are on opposite sides and in a no-win situation.
I was completely drawn into Julia and Rocco’s lives. Ms. Herrera made them come to life with not only their business dilemma, but all the family and friends that were a part of their lives. I feel Julia and Rocco’s romance built at a realistic pace as they both tried so hard to fight their attraction, but the chemistry is just too hot.
I thoroughly enjoyed this contemporary romance and its glimpse at Dominican culture.
HERE TO STAY by Adriana Herrera is a contemporary romance that brings the heat. This is a standalone which could easily become a fun series with ethnic New Yorkers coming together for support and fun in their new surroundings of Dallas.
Julia del Mar’s year did not start out well, but she loves her new job running a charitable foundation and she is making her life in Dallas work. The foundation is run by one of the most iconic high fashion department stores in the world and which was family run, but the siblings have decided to go public.
Rocco Quinn is sent by his New York based consulting company to ready the chain to go public. Rocco is trying to stay above the family feud and do his job. The twins want the foundation to continue, but their younger brother wants it gone. And if the brother gets his way the beautiful Julia will lose her job.
Julia is tasked with introducing Rocco to all the programs the foundation runs. The heat generated between these two is explosive, but both know they are on opposite sides and in a no-win situation.
I was completely drawn into Julia and Rocco’s lives. Ms. Herrera made them come to life with not only their business dilemma, but all the family and friends that were a part of their lives. I feel Julia and Rocco’s romance built at a realistic pace as they both tried so hard to fight their attraction, but the chemistry is just too hot.
I thoroughly enjoyed this contemporary romance and its glimpse at Dominican culture.
August 5, 2020
Cute & steamy contemporary romance where two ex New-Yorkers fall head over heels in Dallas. I loved the cultural representation. Julia and her family are delightful. A tight-knit friendships circle and an interesting work environment make this a charming & feelgood read.
I had a feeling Julia and Rocco met before. They acted like it, but that wasn't ever cleared out. A perfect workplace romance with low drama and angst.
I can't wait to read more books by this author.
Thanks to NetGalley & the publisher for the copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
I had a feeling Julia and Rocco met before. They acted like it, but that wasn't ever cleared out. A perfect workplace romance with low drama and angst.
I can't wait to read more books by this author.
Thanks to NetGalley & the publisher for the copy of this book in exchange for an honest review.
September 27, 2022
4 1/2 "Gotham Exiles" Stars!
Rocco was the sweetest sweetheart! But that mouth was 🔥🔥🔥Julia was my shero! This was workplace romance, found family, and own voice culture representation at its very best. There was a whole diverse cast of fantastic characters I would love to see find their own HEA. Happy reading!
Rocco was the sweetest sweetheart! But that mouth was 🔥🔥🔥Julia was my shero! This was workplace romance, found family, and own voice culture representation at its very best. There was a whole diverse cast of fantastic characters I would love to see find their own HEA. Happy reading!
September 2, 2020
4 Sterne (= sehr gut)
Wooooow, das war mal wieder richtig was fürs Herz 😍
Wooooow, das war mal wieder richtig was fürs Herz 😍
September 11, 2020
This one was so good. Adriana Herrera is a new author to me and I can see that I have been missing out! The writing was really engaging, the characters were entertaining and the plot was engrossing. I really loved this book because it combined family loyalty with real community issues and a sizzling romance. Definitely one of my top reads of 2020.
Julia del Mar moved from New York to Dallas to follow a boyfriend who dumped her soon after she arrived. He also stiffed her with the apartment that needs two people to pay for so Julia cannot afford to lose her job. She works for a charity foundation, an arm of a high fashion company run by two sisters.
Rocco Quinn is a New Yorker who was sent to Dallas as a financial consultant to the foundation that Julia worked at. The problem is that the two sisters who run the fashion company are being challenged by a younger brother who wants to streamline the fashion company and maximize profits by phasing out their philanthropic wing, which is where Julia works. Julia tries her best to show Rocco what her department means to both the fashion house and to the community.
Julia plans a series of get togethers for the “Gotham Exiles� aka the New Yorkers who now live in Dallas and Rocco joined the group. The sparks between Julia and Rocco was evident but what added to the drama was the fact that Rocco was hired to end Julia’s job. Added to the burgeoning attraction, was Julia’s family. I was laughing so hard because I remember my mom and grandmother worrying about me when I moved from Dallas to New York. Her family is so protective, loving and hilarious. Julia’s family were scene stealers and they made me craving some Dominican food. I also loved the subplot with Rocco’s family and their issues. It helped illuminate Rocco’s values and lets the reader get to know him. I really liked him and Julia as people. They care about other people even to their own detriment.
If you want a book where the author really develops the characters and the plot is relatable, then you have to read this book. Definitely one of my top reads of 2020.
*Special thanks to Carina Press via Netgalley for the e-book given in exchange for an honest review.
Julia del Mar moved from New York to Dallas to follow a boyfriend who dumped her soon after she arrived. He also stiffed her with the apartment that needs two people to pay for so Julia cannot afford to lose her job. She works for a charity foundation, an arm of a high fashion company run by two sisters.
Rocco Quinn is a New Yorker who was sent to Dallas as a financial consultant to the foundation that Julia worked at. The problem is that the two sisters who run the fashion company are being challenged by a younger brother who wants to streamline the fashion company and maximize profits by phasing out their philanthropic wing, which is where Julia works. Julia tries her best to show Rocco what her department means to both the fashion house and to the community.
Julia plans a series of get togethers for the “Gotham Exiles� aka the New Yorkers who now live in Dallas and Rocco joined the group. The sparks between Julia and Rocco was evident but what added to the drama was the fact that Rocco was hired to end Julia’s job. Added to the burgeoning attraction, was Julia’s family. I was laughing so hard because I remember my mom and grandmother worrying about me when I moved from Dallas to New York. Her family is so protective, loving and hilarious. Julia’s family were scene stealers and they made me craving some Dominican food. I also loved the subplot with Rocco’s family and their issues. It helped illuminate Rocco’s values and lets the reader get to know him. I really liked him and Julia as people. They care about other people even to their own detriment.
If you want a book where the author really develops the characters and the plot is relatable, then you have to read this book. Definitely one of my top reads of 2020.
*Special thanks to Carina Press via Netgalley for the e-book given in exchange for an honest review.
January 14, 2022
4.5 stars
Great contemporary romance from Adriana Herrera! Here to Stay follows a curvy Dominican social worker who followed a boyfriend from NYC to Texas, but stayed after he abandoned her. The funding for her job comes from a company that is about to go public and she must work with a consultant who may recommend that funding be cut. But of course things heat up between her and this fellow New Yorker. There are some very steamy scenes done well, a solid plot, found family, and an ending that I loved. Definitely worth a read!
Great contemporary romance from Adriana Herrera! Here to Stay follows a curvy Dominican social worker who followed a boyfriend from NYC to Texas, but stayed after he abandoned her. The funding for her job comes from a company that is about to go public and she must work with a consultant who may recommend that funding be cut. But of course things heat up between her and this fellow New Yorker. There are some very steamy scenes done well, a solid plot, found family, and an ending that I loved. Definitely worth a read!
September 28, 2022
Well well, it looks like I have another book boyfriend to add to my never ending list. Rocco could get it everyday and 3x on Sunday!! But you wanna know who reallyyyy rocked my world..Julia Del Mar baby!!! She was everything that I love in a heroine and so much more!!
What happens when you start to fall for the guy that’s there to supposedly end your job? Gotta read, people to find out. This book has everything and I ate it up! The culture, the food, the spicy romance and the great skill set that Rocco possessed…iykyk.
What happens when you start to fall for the guy that’s there to supposedly end your job? Gotta read, people to find out. This book has everything and I ate it up! The culture, the food, the spicy romance and the great skill set that Rocco possessed…iykyk.
August 20, 2020
3.5 stars
This was an entertaining work place/taboo slow burn romance. I really loved how the author showcased families - those made by blood and those that we find/choose. All the characters were likeable and my heart hurt for Rocco and Julia at different times in the book. I wanted to give Rocco a big hug so many times. The secondary characters were equally wonderful (Julia's family! The twins! Jose!) and added so much humor and fun to the story. There was a lot of push and pull in this one and unfortunately, it just felt too drawn out, especially when a bit of OW drama was thrown into the mix. I was rooting for Rocco and Julia to find their HEA, but their inability to speak openly and communicate their feelings to each other got old pretty quickly. There was a lot of instalust from the start, but I still consider this a slow burn since it took our characters time to sort themselves out. Once things were sorted though, there were some very, very steamy and sexy times. I am a big fan of the dirty talking boy scout hero ;) I just wish Julia and Rocco had been as open and honest with each other outside of the bedroom as they were inside. I really enjoyed the author's writing style and look forward to reading more of her books.
*I voluntarily read an advance review copy of this book*
This was an entertaining work place/taboo slow burn romance. I really loved how the author showcased families - those made by blood and those that we find/choose. All the characters were likeable and my heart hurt for Rocco and Julia at different times in the book. I wanted to give Rocco a big hug so many times. The secondary characters were equally wonderful (Julia's family! The twins! Jose!) and added so much humor and fun to the story. There was a lot of push and pull in this one and unfortunately, it just felt too drawn out, especially when a bit of OW drama was thrown into the mix. I was rooting for Rocco and Julia to find their HEA, but their inability to speak openly and communicate their feelings to each other got old pretty quickly. There was a lot of instalust from the start, but I still consider this a slow burn since it took our characters time to sort themselves out. Once things were sorted though, there were some very, very steamy and sexy times. I am a big fan of the dirty talking boy scout hero ;) I just wish Julia and Rocco had been as open and honest with each other outside of the bedroom as they were inside. I really enjoyed the author's writing style and look forward to reading more of her books.
*I voluntarily read an advance review copy of this book*
August 17, 2020
Here To Stay is the romance between Julia Del Mar Ortiz and Rocco Quinn. These two are both New Yorkers whose paths don’t cross until they both find themselves in Dallas, Texas. Julia moved from NYC to Dallas with a boyfriend who dumped her and left shortly after they arrived and Rocco is there temporarily for a job-this job entailing having to prove to a company that Julia’s job isn’t needed.
There is so much to love about this book. I love when a location feels like an added character to the story and I loved what Adriana did with the city of Dallas in this book. Dallas represented, making it work and starting over. For Julia all I kept thinking was how huge of a city Dallas is, and to be basically left there alone after being dumped how lonely and intimidating that can feel. For Rocco it was this very tempting place of new possibilities but he was holding on very tightly to what was back home in NYC. The workplace drama is always lingering in the background; Adriana never really lets us forget the reason why there is some hesitation on the characters parts but I loved that we spent quite a bit of time seeing them get to know one another and slowly piecing together the reasons why this new city was a good fit.
I will always love found family. The Gotham Exiles is formed in the book; a group of people all from New York City now living in Dallas and it was so fun to see all of them build that support group with one another. The found family aspect was such a joy along with Julia’s family! I love when family members do too much, because that is reality for so many of us. Julia’s conversations and the scenes where her family was actually around were always so fun to read. I like what she did with both Julia’s family and the Gotham Exiles because for Rocco, his family life sucked. His parents are in this constant back and forth of abuse and I really appreciate how Adriana pointed out through Rocco and Julia having a conversation some of the long term effects of being a kid who grew up in a abusive household. His focus was on getting his sister and niece out of NYC, away from his parents. His situation is also one of those where the one whose always taking care of everyone else has to learn to let people be there for him too and in the case of Julia-he has to learn that he no longer has to go at things alone.
“We hid in those bushes and kissed and touched until we were both so turned on and disheveled all we could was slink away like thieves in the night. And I guessed we were stealing. We were trying to rob a little of time, as ours was running out.�
Domestic abuse and the deportation of immigrants were two very important topics handled amazingly in this book. Here To Stay is one that I will be recommending for a very long time, especially as a book that I think shows what the romance genre is out here doing! Educating you on everyday topics while promising a happy ever after.
“That man looks at you like you’re the answer to every question he’s ever had. Trust that you can be that to someone.�
There is so much to love about this book. I love when a location feels like an added character to the story and I loved what Adriana did with the city of Dallas in this book. Dallas represented, making it work and starting over. For Julia all I kept thinking was how huge of a city Dallas is, and to be basically left there alone after being dumped how lonely and intimidating that can feel. For Rocco it was this very tempting place of new possibilities but he was holding on very tightly to what was back home in NYC. The workplace drama is always lingering in the background; Adriana never really lets us forget the reason why there is some hesitation on the characters parts but I loved that we spent quite a bit of time seeing them get to know one another and slowly piecing together the reasons why this new city was a good fit.
I will always love found family. The Gotham Exiles is formed in the book; a group of people all from New York City now living in Dallas and it was so fun to see all of them build that support group with one another. The found family aspect was such a joy along with Julia’s family! I love when family members do too much, because that is reality for so many of us. Julia’s conversations and the scenes where her family was actually around were always so fun to read. I like what she did with both Julia’s family and the Gotham Exiles because for Rocco, his family life sucked. His parents are in this constant back and forth of abuse and I really appreciate how Adriana pointed out through Rocco and Julia having a conversation some of the long term effects of being a kid who grew up in a abusive household. His focus was on getting his sister and niece out of NYC, away from his parents. His situation is also one of those where the one whose always taking care of everyone else has to learn to let people be there for him too and in the case of Julia-he has to learn that he no longer has to go at things alone.
“We hid in those bushes and kissed and touched until we were both so turned on and disheveled all we could was slink away like thieves in the night. And I guessed we were stealing. We were trying to rob a little of time, as ours was running out.�
Domestic abuse and the deportation of immigrants were two very important topics handled amazingly in this book. Here To Stay is one that I will be recommending for a very long time, especially as a book that I think shows what the romance genre is out here doing! Educating you on everyday topics while promising a happy ever after.
“That man looks at you like you’re the answer to every question he’s ever had. Trust that you can be that to someone.�
November 18, 2020
3.5-4 stars!
January 9, 2023
4.5/5⭐️!!! Wow this book was so freaking good! I was hooked from the start.
I love it when I just fall in love with the characters so quickly and easily! Julia and Rocco were the cutest! I loved how passionate their chemistry and sparks were!
This book also dealt with the importance of social work and doing what is right which was beautiful to read about. This story was filled with Latinx culture, friends, and family!! I adored how Rocco not only found love with Julia but a new family!
Rocco and Julia's romantic connection got me so giddy. The spice was giving too!!! There were multiple times when I literally said "DAMN" 🥵 out loud!! 😏
It was such a wonderful read!! LOVED IT!! ❤️
I love it when I just fall in love with the characters so quickly and easily! Julia and Rocco were the cutest! I loved how passionate their chemistry and sparks were!
This book also dealt with the importance of social work and doing what is right which was beautiful to read about. This story was filled with Latinx culture, friends, and family!! I adored how Rocco not only found love with Julia but a new family!
Rocco and Julia's romantic connection got me so giddy. The spice was giving too!!! There were multiple times when I literally said "DAMN" 🥵 out loud!! 😏
It was such a wonderful read!! LOVED IT!! ❤️
August 22, 2020
Adriana Herrera is one of the best modern romance writers. As romance readers, we're incredibly blessed to experience her stunning stories that feature some of the most diverse casts. Here to Stay is easily one of my favorite contemporary romance novels of the year. It was a treat to read and I hope you have the book on your radar.
Adriana Herrera is a pro at penning characters that possess layers and layers of depth. Julia as a protagonist is endearing and easy to fall for. I loved her voice and being inside her head brought me nothing but joy. Julia followed her ex all the way to Dallas, leaving behind her Dominican family in NYC, only to have the relationship end on a sour note. Thankfully for Julia, she has a great opportunity in the form of her dream job running a charitable foundation of a department store. Except, to Julia's dismay, a consultant who could very much end her career has been hired by the CEO. I love that Adriana Herrera writes these heroines who are dedicated to the work they do. Every scene of Julia talking about her social work permeated with her dedication and passion. She cared deeply about the people-in-need she was trying her best to help. Her commitment to her job came across really well throughout the book. I honestly think that Julia is the sort of character that everyone would love to have as a friend in real life. She is humorous and has the most inviting personality. Her quick wit, fiery personality, no-nonsense attitude also meant that Julia wasn't afraid to mince her words, a quality that serves her well when dealing with Rocco.
Rocco is the consultant brought in to potentially cut Julia's social program. Oh man, is Rocco a dreamy hero! Some of my favorite romance heroes are the ones who are soft and vulnerable but can also make you want to drop your undies with their dirty talk. Rocco is exactly that sort of hero. Did I also mention that he is tattoed? *swoon* He is a total swoony-worthy dreamboat and he made me immensely happy. There's a particular scene in Here To Stay during which he shows up at Julia's doorstep with a teeny tiny kitten he's trying to save and asdfghjkl! I WAS A PILE OF GOO. I don't know how Julia did not climb him like a tree right at that moment. Rocco's painful relationship with his parents played a big influence on his personality and despite not being treated like the way a son should be treated, his love for his younger sister remains steadfast and pure. All of it made for a lovable hero who is book-husband material worthy.
You probably guessed already that Julia and Rocco do not get along at first. They are both intensely attracted to each other, but their respective professions act as mammoth-sized obstacles to their relationship. They somehow find themselves in each other's circles, forcing them to interact, get to know each other, and eventually connect emotionally. These two stubborn dodos are obviously perfect for one another. Watching them do their mating dance is pure fun and I personally couldn't wait for them to take their chemistry to the bedroom. My patience paid off. The sex scenes in this book deserve their own paragraph, but I'm going to leave all that good stuff for you readers to discover on your own. I do have five words that will probably convince you guys to pick up Here to Stay: dirty talking hero AND heroine!
Adriana Herrera also portrays some of the best family dynamics. Julia's family are scene-stealers that also happen to steal my heart in the process. I adored her parents, grandmother, and sister. They are the most cheerful and optimistic fictional family I've ever come across and I loved how close they were to each other. Their connection to their Dominican culture is particularly touching and beautifully written in true Adriana Herrera style. Julia and Rocco also find a new family in the form of their new coworkers/friends in Dallas. I love a good found-family in fiction and each and every person in this particular friend group was lovely and interesting.
I sincerely urge you to pick up Here to Stay when it releases. Otherwise, we're going to need to have some strong words. It's sexy, fun, and all sorts of entertaining! So, trust me, you need this book in your lives!
August 17, 2020
Thank you to Carina Press and Netgalley for the free review copy of Here To Stay. I loved this book so much and am feeling book hungover after turning the final page.
Julia left NYC and moved to Dallas, TX for her boyfriend Matt only to break up shortly after arriving. She’s determined to still make it on her own. She takes a job at a department store’s corporate office running programs in their foundation to help local kids and their families. Sturm’s department store is considering going public and Rocco is a consultant who came in to help make it happen - including advising on whether the charitable programs should be cut. Professionally they are on opposite sides of the table - so why are their sparks so hard to ignore?
Julia also puts together a group of former New Yorkers who are new to Texas. As much as I love the romance in this book, I love the found family group of friends even more. I can’t wait for others from the Gotham Exiles to get their love stories in future books. I miss these characters like they became my friends as I read.
I also loved the ways Julia’s and Rocco’s families were part of the story. There are so many different family relationships and I loved how Herrera showed two very different families and how a healthy relationship with a family can mean very different things.
The only part I didn’t love was the business side of things - but definitely willing to look past that for all the rest of this wonderful story. Highly recommend and I can’t wait for the next one!!
Julia left NYC and moved to Dallas, TX for her boyfriend Matt only to break up shortly after arriving. She’s determined to still make it on her own. She takes a job at a department store’s corporate office running programs in their foundation to help local kids and their families. Sturm’s department store is considering going public and Rocco is a consultant who came in to help make it happen - including advising on whether the charitable programs should be cut. Professionally they are on opposite sides of the table - so why are their sparks so hard to ignore?
Julia also puts together a group of former New Yorkers who are new to Texas. As much as I love the romance in this book, I love the found family group of friends even more. I can’t wait for others from the Gotham Exiles to get their love stories in future books. I miss these characters like they became my friends as I read.
I also loved the ways Julia’s and Rocco’s families were part of the story. There are so many different family relationships and I loved how Herrera showed two very different families and how a healthy relationship with a family can mean very different things.
The only part I didn’t love was the business side of things - but definitely willing to look past that for all the rest of this wonderful story. Highly recommend and I can’t wait for the next one!!
September 4, 2020
📚 Hello Book Friends! HERE TO STAY by Adriana Herrera was a fun, emotional, and sexy read. The tension between Julia and Rocco was tangible and so hot! I love their relationship back and forth and how they can keep their hands away from each other. The ending is sweet and noble as it should be in a great romance story. If you are looking for a light romance book with lots of sexual tension, this one is for you. What am I saying? Just pick up a copy and start reading and dazzled by this wonderful book.
🙋🏼♀� Thank you, HARLEQUIN BOOKS for sending me a copy of this promising book. HERE TO STAY by Adriana Herrera is now available at your favourite bookstore.
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August 23, 2020
Heartfelt, playful, and enticing!
Here to Stay is a heartwarming, humorous tale that transports you to Dallas, Texas and into the lives of both Julia del Mar Ortiz, a kind, compassionate, Dominican-Puerto Rican woman who after being dumped shortly after relocating to Texas from Queens is more than happy putting all her time and effort into her dream job, running the charitable foundation for Sturm’s, and Rocco Quinn, an Italian-Irish, handsome, young man tasked with helping Sturm’s get ready to go public and potentially recommending chopping those parts of the company, such as their charitable foundation, that may be an unnecessary expense to the companies bottom line.
The writing is sensual and light. The characters are intelligent, kind, considerate, inclusive, and endearing. And the plot is a push-pull tale full of workplace drama, familial responsibility, witty banter, tender moments, expectations, goals, friendship, diversity, compromise, chemistry, and love.
Overall, Here to Stay is another sweet, passionate, satisfying novel by Herrera that’s more than just a typical enemies-to-more rom-com with its abundance of culture and tradition, social consciousness, and timely perspective.
Thank you to Harlequin Books - Carina Press for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
Here to Stay is a heartwarming, humorous tale that transports you to Dallas, Texas and into the lives of both Julia del Mar Ortiz, a kind, compassionate, Dominican-Puerto Rican woman who after being dumped shortly after relocating to Texas from Queens is more than happy putting all her time and effort into her dream job, running the charitable foundation for Sturm’s, and Rocco Quinn, an Italian-Irish, handsome, young man tasked with helping Sturm’s get ready to go public and potentially recommending chopping those parts of the company, such as their charitable foundation, that may be an unnecessary expense to the companies bottom line.
The writing is sensual and light. The characters are intelligent, kind, considerate, inclusive, and endearing. And the plot is a push-pull tale full of workplace drama, familial responsibility, witty banter, tender moments, expectations, goals, friendship, diversity, compromise, chemistry, and love.
Overall, Here to Stay is another sweet, passionate, satisfying novel by Herrera that’s more than just a typical enemies-to-more rom-com with its abundance of culture and tradition, social consciousness, and timely perspective.
Thank you to Harlequin Books - Carina Press for providing me with a copy in exchange for an honest review.
August 20, 2020
Julia del Mar Ortiz moved to Dallas, with her boyfriend. He ended up ditching her for someone else and moved back to NY city.
Julia is running the charitable foundation of one of the most iconic high fashion department stores in the world. She loves her job and feels she is making a difference.
Rocco Quinn is also from NY and his job is to take away Julia's job.
They both are very attracted to each other and have a lot of sexual fantasies about each other.
She is out to prove to him that her job and the program is very important.
I really liked Julia. She was determined to stay in Dallas and not run back home to her family. Rocco needs to prove that the foundation is a big loss so he can keep his job and take care of his sister and niece.
Julia's family is a hoot. It consists of her parents, grandmother and sister.
Rocco has been taking care of his sister and niece as she is a single parent. His parents aren't reliable and his dad is a total jerk. He seems to think since he raised his son that his son owes him. Rocco makes 6 figures and his dad sees him as a hotshot and to good for his family. Even though Rocco pays for things for his parents. I wanted to reach through the book and really shake his father up.
Thank you to Harper Collins and NetGalley for the ARC to review.
Julia is running the charitable foundation of one of the most iconic high fashion department stores in the world. She loves her job and feels she is making a difference.
Rocco Quinn is also from NY and his job is to take away Julia's job.
They both are very attracted to each other and have a lot of sexual fantasies about each other.
She is out to prove to him that her job and the program is very important.
I really liked Julia. She was determined to stay in Dallas and not run back home to her family. Rocco needs to prove that the foundation is a big loss so he can keep his job and take care of his sister and niece.
Julia's family is a hoot. It consists of her parents, grandmother and sister.
Rocco has been taking care of his sister and niece as she is a single parent. His parents aren't reliable and his dad is a total jerk. He seems to think since he raised his son that his son owes him. Rocco makes 6 figures and his dad sees him as a hotshot and to good for his family. Even though Rocco pays for things for his parents. I wanted to reach through the book and really shake his father up.
Thank you to Harper Collins and NetGalley for the ARC to review.
September 23, 2020
This was an impulse buy that paid off. My first Herrera book but definitely not my last. The dialogue felt genuine and had me laughing out loud in parts. I loved Julia and her family dynamics and the way that she warily but humorously approached her attraction to Rocco. Rocco's dedication to his sister and niece was wonderfully realistic as well, not overblown drama that will make me roll my eyes. The chemistry between them was instant but the actual sexy times do not come until far into the story which didn't bother me at all. The build up was nice and I couldn't have asked for more. I hope that the secondary characters in the Gotham Exiles Club get their own books at some point because they were all interesting and I'd love to get more of them. The story is simple and straight forward and gave me what I didn't know I needed.
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Where you can find me:
Twitter:
Instagram:
ŷ Group: The Black Bookcase
September 23, 2020
I've loved Adriana Herrera's other books, but sadly this one really didn't work for me. In a romance novel, I need to really click with the characters and be drawn in instantly, and that just never happened so I didn't feel invested in it and didn't really feel the chemistry. I found the beginning rather info-dumpy. Honestly, not much was technically wrong with this, but I just didn't feel drawn in by it.
September 9, 2020
Much thanks toCarina Pressfor sending me a copy for review and for inviting me to be a part of this tour. This review is voluntary and opinions are fully my own. Also, all quotes are taken from the ARC and may or may not appear in the final published copy.
The Workplace Enemies-To-Lovers I Need
My romance-loving heart is definitely rejoicing with this new release from Carina Press.Here To Staytells the story ofJulia del Mar Ortizand her life struggles after moving to Dallas from the busy NYC only to break up and get left behind by the reason she moved in the first place. After landing a great job she is passionate about, she finds that her department is at the risk of getting chopped.
EnterRocco Quinn.Fellow ex-New Yorker and Julia’s beautiful nightmare. Why? Despite this man’s good looks is his job as a consultant that will eventually get rid of the charitable programs she handles.
As these two get to know each other, the real problem arises. Would they entertain this sense of attraction they feel? And what would that mean for their jobs?
Content Warning: Abusive parent, alcoholism
Lovable Lead Characters
As a romance reader, one of the things that influence how much I would love a book is how much I feel for the characters. Not necessarily agreeing with everything about them, but they should not frustrate me to bits, I guess.
Here to Staywas able to meet those expectations and it had me rooting for the leads even at the first few chapters! Julia is such a darling and seeing how passionate she was about her social work is so inspiring. She is fiery and brave � the type of heroine I want in my romance books!
And, I have to admit, as much as I adore Julia, Rocco stole the show � and my heart! He is so sweet to his niece and sister, he loves animals, and he is just a soft cinnamon roll. His vulnerability is so swoon-worthy (and he doesn’t disappoint in delivering steam, as well.)
The Beauty of Found Family
Another plus point for this story is the friend group they have formed. The Gotham Exiles, which began as a simple gathering for former New Yorkers evolved to becoming a support group. There’s just a profound feeling that tugs at the heartstrings when strangers turn into family � andHere to Staygave us this fun found family dynamic that was so fun to read!
Dominican Culture Representation
Adriana Herrera also gave us some Latinx love! Julia is from Dominican Republic and she and her family showcased a lot of their culture in the story. The integration of the Dominican culture in the book did not feel forced or too preachy. It just showed a story of a fun and loud family who loved each other too bits. Bonus: I loved all of the food mentions and descriptions!
Final Thoughts: Definitely Satisfied
Though this was my first Adriana Herrera read, I think I found a new romance author with a backlist I want to devour. Her writing style is up my alley and I definitely need more!Here to Staymight be a little slow burning, but I enjoyed the whole journey. Julia & Rocco’s story is the perfect blend of cute, fun, dramatic, sweet, and steamy � definitely the total package!
My Book Rating Breakdown
ܰ:⭐⭐⭐⭐�
Main Character:⭐⭐⭐⭐�
Significant Other: ⭐⭐⭐⭐�
Support Characters:⭐⭐⭐⭐�
Writing Style:⭐⭐⭐⭐�
Character Development:⭐⭐⭐⭐�
Romance: ⭐⭐⭐⭐�
Pacing: ⭐⭐⭐⭐�
Ending: ⭐⭐⭐⭐�
Unputdownability: ⭐⭐⭐⭐�
Book Cover:⭐⭐⭐⭐�
Final Rating: ⭐⭐⭐⭐� (4.64/5)
February 14, 2022
Adriana Herrera, you created a new book boyfriend just for me! Hello Rocco, come to mama!!
Here to Stay was *chef's kiss*. A workplace romance is my catnip. But this was so much more than a workplace romance. It was about culture, family, uprooting oneself and finding your own family and creating a home from those that care about you most. You don't have to be a part of the cycle, but you can break it.
Julia has a job that she loves, but in a place that she hasn't found her footing. She moved to Dallas with her boyfriend that left soon after moving there from NY. But Julia loves her charitable job too much to leave. She likes parts of Dallas, but needs a crew in order to really feel at home. She decides to form a group of ex NYers and that's where everything begins to shift it's balance.
Rocco is sent in to see if this corporation is doing what it can before it goes public. Most of the board wants to defund their charitable work division since that would take away money from those higher ups. But Julia is the one to task with showing Rocco how wonderful the work they do is and how the community needs it. They are already pitted against one another, but then when he shows up to the ex NYers meet up, things begin to unfold with them.
I LOVE ROCCO!! Well, I love Julia too. And her family and her crew she forms. This story had the perfect blend of blood family and found family and chemistry between Rocco and Julia. It was obvious, but also burned a little bit slower until Thanksgiving came around. Man, Rocco and that mouth!!
When I put my mouth on you, I'm going to take my time. Lick and suck until I have you begging. Saying my name like it's the only word you know."
These characters are so much more than that though. They are about family and making sacrifices for the ones they love the most. Rocco puts a lot of pressure on himself because he's a savior of sorts. His heart is soft and he knows what he must do, but he wars with himself to get everything right because everything has always been wrong with him and his family. And then we have Julia that has an amazing family and friends and is filled and surrounded by love and support. When these two can get on board with each other and where each of them can go, that's when the magic happens.
I loved the strong characters and the supporting cast. The story unfolded at the perfect pace and I felt like I got to know the characters before they got together. So when the drama came, it all made sense.
If you like a slow burn, workplace romance with a man that has a huge heart and dirty mouth and a strong woman that holds family close, you will enjoy Here to Stay. 4+ stars
Here to Stay was *chef's kiss*. A workplace romance is my catnip. But this was so much more than a workplace romance. It was about culture, family, uprooting oneself and finding your own family and creating a home from those that care about you most. You don't have to be a part of the cycle, but you can break it.
Julia has a job that she loves, but in a place that she hasn't found her footing. She moved to Dallas with her boyfriend that left soon after moving there from NY. But Julia loves her charitable job too much to leave. She likes parts of Dallas, but needs a crew in order to really feel at home. She decides to form a group of ex NYers and that's where everything begins to shift it's balance.
Rocco is sent in to see if this corporation is doing what it can before it goes public. Most of the board wants to defund their charitable work division since that would take away money from those higher ups. But Julia is the one to task with showing Rocco how wonderful the work they do is and how the community needs it. They are already pitted against one another, but then when he shows up to the ex NYers meet up, things begin to unfold with them.
I LOVE ROCCO!! Well, I love Julia too. And her family and her crew she forms. This story had the perfect blend of blood family and found family and chemistry between Rocco and Julia. It was obvious, but also burned a little bit slower until Thanksgiving came around. Man, Rocco and that mouth!!
When I put my mouth on you, I'm going to take my time. Lick and suck until I have you begging. Saying my name like it's the only word you know."
These characters are so much more than that though. They are about family and making sacrifices for the ones they love the most. Rocco puts a lot of pressure on himself because he's a savior of sorts. His heart is soft and he knows what he must do, but he wars with himself to get everything right because everything has always been wrong with him and his family. And then we have Julia that has an amazing family and friends and is filled and surrounded by love and support. When these two can get on board with each other and where each of them can go, that's when the magic happens.
I loved the strong characters and the supporting cast. The story unfolded at the perfect pace and I felt like I got to know the characters before they got together. So when the drama came, it all made sense.
If you like a slow burn, workplace romance with a man that has a huge heart and dirty mouth and a strong woman that holds family close, you will enjoy Here to Stay. 4+ stars
June 24, 2020
3.5 stars
I have a harder time suspending my disbelief with contemporaries, so it took me a little while to get into this one, but it was very sweet and I ultimately found it immersive, which is what I'm looking for when I'm reading romance.
It was nice to see Dominican culture represented, and I think the author did a great job of integrating it into the story. She pretty seamlessly translates the few moments of Spanish, though if you made it through a couple years of high school Spanish you don't need them. I think it's also really important that she depicted an intact, loving family of color. This is not a story of troubled immigrants; it's actually the hero, a white guy, who has the difficult family background. Having the main character be a social worker who works with immigrant families made the book feel timely, and I generally think the conflict in the book worked really well and felt like a fresh addition to a well-liked trope.
I liked the characters, and I thought Julia was well-rounded and authentic. Rocco was very lovable. The side characters were a little formulaic, but still enjoyable. There was nothing problematic in the MC's relationship dynamic, and consent was frequent and explicit. I didn't love the sex scenes, though. Rocco went from being this incredibly sweet "cinnamon roll" type to suddenly super dirty, and I just don't think the transition was successful; it felt sudden and jarring. I think "Get a Life, Chloe Brown" by Talia Hibbert is an example of how a similar dynamic can be done successfully.
This was an ARC, and I'm hoping it's still going to get a good amount of editing. There were a few typos and awkward sentences, but my main problem was that a few phrases were repeated to the point that it was distracting. Every character "lifts a shoulder" (the author's way of saying shrug?) A LOT. About 1/3 of the lifts should stay in. There are also a lot of times where characters "suck their teeth," which to me seems like an odd gesture for every character to do; I would think it might be a distinctive behavior of a certain character rather than something everyone does, and does frequently.
In the end, this was a fun, sweet read, and I'll probably revisit this author in the future.
I have a harder time suspending my disbelief with contemporaries, so it took me a little while to get into this one, but it was very sweet and I ultimately found it immersive, which is what I'm looking for when I'm reading romance.
It was nice to see Dominican culture represented, and I think the author did a great job of integrating it into the story. She pretty seamlessly translates the few moments of Spanish, though if you made it through a couple years of high school Spanish you don't need them. I think it's also really important that she depicted an intact, loving family of color. This is not a story of troubled immigrants; it's actually the hero, a white guy, who has the difficult family background. Having the main character be a social worker who works with immigrant families made the book feel timely, and I generally think the conflict in the book worked really well and felt like a fresh addition to a well-liked trope.
I liked the characters, and I thought Julia was well-rounded and authentic. Rocco was very lovable. The side characters were a little formulaic, but still enjoyable. There was nothing problematic in the MC's relationship dynamic, and consent was frequent and explicit. I didn't love the sex scenes, though. Rocco went from being this incredibly sweet "cinnamon roll" type to suddenly super dirty, and I just don't think the transition was successful; it felt sudden and jarring. I think "Get a Life, Chloe Brown" by Talia Hibbert is an example of how a similar dynamic can be done successfully.
This was an ARC, and I'm hoping it's still going to get a good amount of editing. There were a few typos and awkward sentences, but my main problem was that a few phrases were repeated to the point that it was distracting. Every character "lifts a shoulder" (the author's way of saying shrug?) A LOT. About 1/3 of the lifts should stay in. There are also a lot of times where characters "suck their teeth," which to me seems like an odd gesture for every character to do; I would think it might be a distinctive behavior of a certain character rather than something everyone does, and does frequently.
In the end, this was a fun, sweet read, and I'll probably revisit this author in the future.
February 20, 2021
Love how Adriana Herrera combines complex family dynamics, social issues, and sex in a perfect blend.
August 22, 2020
This is the first book I’ve read by this author, and it definitely won’t be the last, because I was charmed by every bit of this romance. From the heroine Julia’s loving Afro-Caribbean family she adores but can’t be around too much because she finds them smothering, to her found-family of New York expats suffering in the cultural desert of Dallas, Texas (lol), Herrera skilfully draws a picture of a successful professional woman making her own way in the world, self-sufficient despite an ex doing her dirty.
It’s the hero Rocco whose life is messy, who needs to achieve and earn more in order to get his sister and nephew away from their abusive parents. This is where the conflict comes in, because in order to achieve his goals, Rocco has to do a job that will very likely cause Julia to lose hers� and hers matters to a lot of people who need her, because she runs a major social work program, funded by the charitable donations of an upscale department store.
Rocco and Julia have fantastic chemistry together, and there are some wonderful (and wonderfully diverse) side characters determined to see them find a happy ending, but life sometimes does set people up in opposition to each other, and that’s what has happened here. Perhaps the only thing I didn’t like is that Julia was essentially passive in the final major decision; she really had no role to play. It was Rocco’s sister who convinced him to make a recommendation he could live with, and it could still have cost Julia dear. Again� that’s representative of real life when sometimes it really is a Hobson’s choice, so I’m not going to knock any stars off for it. Julia and Rocco found their way to a happy ending for themselves and those they loved best, and in a way that didn’t require either of them to compromise their principles. It was believable and beautiful, and I really bought into their romance. I especially loved the portrayal of Julia’s family as a pack of healthy, loving Afro-Caribbean New Yorkers (and oh, the descriptions of the food!) I did read an ARC of this where the brand Goya was mentioned prominently; I’m going to guess that might be hastily edited out in the final edition (lol again).
Five stars for a gorgeous contemporary romance where there are no easy choices, but the couple find their way to a happy ending anyway.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via NetGalley.
It’s the hero Rocco whose life is messy, who needs to achieve and earn more in order to get his sister and nephew away from their abusive parents. This is where the conflict comes in, because in order to achieve his goals, Rocco has to do a job that will very likely cause Julia to lose hers� and hers matters to a lot of people who need her, because she runs a major social work program, funded by the charitable donations of an upscale department store.
Rocco and Julia have fantastic chemistry together, and there are some wonderful (and wonderfully diverse) side characters determined to see them find a happy ending, but life sometimes does set people up in opposition to each other, and that’s what has happened here. Perhaps the only thing I didn’t like is that Julia was essentially passive in the final major decision; she really had no role to play. It was Rocco’s sister who convinced him to make a recommendation he could live with, and it could still have cost Julia dear. Again� that’s representative of real life when sometimes it really is a Hobson’s choice, so I’m not going to knock any stars off for it. Julia and Rocco found their way to a happy ending for themselves and those they loved best, and in a way that didn’t require either of them to compromise their principles. It was believable and beautiful, and I really bought into their romance. I especially loved the portrayal of Julia’s family as a pack of healthy, loving Afro-Caribbean New Yorkers (and oh, the descriptions of the food!) I did read an ARC of this where the brand Goya was mentioned prominently; I’m going to guess that might be hastily edited out in the final edition (lol again).
Five stars for a gorgeous contemporary romance where there are no easy choices, but the couple find their way to a happy ending anyway.
Disclaimer: I received a review copy of this title via NetGalley.
September 9, 2020
Julia moves to Dallas from New York with her boyfriend who dumps her and returns to New York shortly after. Rocco Quinn is in Dallas to help Sturm's, the company Julia works for, go public. Sturms has been mostly run by a set of elegant twins, but their younger brother is ready to take the company to the next level. If they do, Julia's job could be in jeopardy. There is very strong chemistry between Julia and Rocco, but will that change his mind about what is best for the company? Which will matter more to them, finding happiness with each other or keeping their jobs?
Thanks to Carina Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This is another book that I really enjoyed. It kept me entertained from start to finish. There were a couple of surprises along the way that I didn't see coming, but overall this was a cute romantic story that I would recommend to those who enjoy work romance stories.
Thanks to Carina Press and NetGalley for the opportunity to read and review this book.
This is another book that I really enjoyed. It kept me entertained from start to finish. There were a couple of surprises along the way that I didn't see coming, but overall this was a cute romantic story that I would recommend to those who enjoy work romance stories.
January 1, 2022
3.5 Stars
There was a lot to like in this book (the diversity of characters, Caribbean food references, Julia's family and friends, and the highlighting of immigrant social work,) but overall it was just an okay read for me.
I loved Julia and Rocco with their friends and family, but when it was just them together or alone, there was a lot of drama with too many wishy-washy inner monologues. I did have fun visualizing Julia and Rocco as the characters on the book cover. Very cute. I also enjoyed all of the Caribbean food mentioned. Being married to a Puerto Rican, I was familiar with many of them and have also mastered a few myself - sancocho, Pollo Guisada, and homemade sofrito. I also have plans to make Moro de Guandules con Coco for our New Years Day meal, a Dominican dish fully inspired by this book. Yum.
Shelved as 'dnf'
August 31, 2020I just can't with the male narrator. I have difficulties understanding him
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